Central Texas School Districts Face Mixed Results in Bond Elections

On November 4, several school districts in Central Texas held elections to decide on bond measures and voter-approved tax rate elections (VATREs). The results varied significantly across the region, with some districts achieving funding for key projects while others faced rejection from voters.

Manor ISD and Coupland ISD Fail to Secure Funding

In Manor Independent School District (ISD), voters faced three propositions. Proposition A aimed to allocate $359.5 million for essential school renovations, security enhancements, and new school buses. Proposition B sought $8.5 million for technology upgrades, while Proposition C proposed $16.5 million for performing arts expansions at the Manor High School Complex. Ultimately, all three propositions were rejected by voters.

Coupland ISD also proposed a VATRE, referred to as Proposition A. This measure was intended to generate an additional $240,939 in maintenance and operations revenue. The funding was earmarked for staff payments, hiring additional personnel, and procuring necessary supplies. Voters rejected this proposition as well.

Success for Taylor ISD and Liberty Hill ISD

In contrast, Taylor ISD experienced success with its two propositions. Proposition A, a bond measure, sought $147 million for various school construction and renovation projects. Proposition B was a VATRE designed to fund student programs and corporate partnerships. Voters approved both measures, ensuring financial support for the district’s initiatives.

Liberty Hill ISD also secured approval for its VATRE, which aimed to provide $10.7 million for student programs, safety, and staff retention. The proposed allocation included $7.2 million for student programs, $1.3 million for safety measures, and $2.2 million for retaining teachers and staff. This outcome reflects strong community support for the district’s priorities.

Hays CISD and Blanco ISD Encounter Setbacks

Hays CISD’s Proposition A, another VATRE, proposed a 12-cent increase in the maintenance and operations tax rate. This adjustment was projected to generate approximately $26 million for operational expenses, including retroactive staff raises. Voters, however, rejected this proposal.

Blanco ISD faced a similar fate with its VATRE, which sought to increase the maintenance and operations tax rate by two cents. The district expected this change to yield nearly $500,000 annually, funding critical student programs, maintaining small class sizes, and ensuring local control over allocated funds. Despite these potential benefits, voters also rejected this measure.

As Central Texas school districts navigate the outcome of these elections, the results highlight the varying levels of community support and the challenges faced in securing funding for educational initiatives. For further details on election results across the region, additional information is available at credible local news sources such as KVUE.com.