DEMOPOLIS &8212; A three-mill tax to fund the city school district received overwhelming support as it was renewed among low voter turnout.

With five of six precincts reporting, unofficial results show the 30-year-old millage plan was renewed.

According to unofficial results, 581 voters, or 87 percent, supported the measure. Only 88 voters opposed the millage renewal.

School leaders hit the streets for the last several weeks drumming up support for the millage renewal. Both Dr. Wesley Hill and Wayne Vickers called the millage renewal a critical step in continuing the strong community support that has brought Demopolis City Schools statewide recognition.

The three mills generate approximately $300,000 each year for the schools. Last week, Hill and Vickers said the advantage to the local millage is that it can be used for any needs the district might have.

Hill, who is concluding 29 years as superintendent, said the money can be used for teacher salaries, special programs or supplies.

The millage was initially passed in 1977 and must be renewed every 10 years. Hill said that it passed by approximately 70 percent in 1997, the last time it was up for renewal.