top of page

Understanding HISD’s $4.4 Billion Bond Proposal and Property Taxes Impact

Writer's picture: Janice ThomasJanice Thomas

calculating property taxes

As Houston voters prepare for the upcoming election on November 5, 2024, many may be wondering about the details of the Houston Independent School District’s (HISD) $4.4 billion bond proposal. This bond is designed to address critical improvements across the district, including the construction of new schools, the renovation of aging facilities, and upgrades to technology and safety infrastructure.


While the bond proposal aims to address the district’s most pressing facility and educational needs, it is important to note that, by law, the bond must be accompanied by language stating that it is a “property tax increase.” This required wording appears on all Texas bond proposals, even when there is no planned tax rate increase. HISD has structured this bond to be funded within its existing tax rate, meaning homeowners should not expect an increase in their property tax rate as a direct result of the bond. However, this language is required to ensure transparency and provide voters with full information about potential outcomes.


One important factor that influences school funding in Texas is House Bill 3 (HB 3), which was enacted in 2019 as a significant school finance reform. HB 3 aimed to increase funding for public schools while also lowering property tax rates for local homeowners. The bill raised the basic allotment per student, allowing districts like HISD to receive more state funding, thus alleviating some of the reliance on local property taxes. HB 3 also placed caps on how much school districts can raise through local property taxes, ensuring that any increase beyond 3.5% in the maintenance and operations tax rate requires voter approval. This reform has helped HISD maintain a stable tax rate, even as they propose this large bond to fund critical improvements.


The bond will fund a range of projects designed to improve the learning environment for students, including building new schools in underserved areas, upgrading facilities, and modernizing technology so that all students have access to the tools needed to succeed in today’s educational landscape. Additionally, three new Career and Technical Education (CTE) centers will provide students with access to hands-on training, preparing them for future careers and enhancing college and career readiness rates.


As voters consider the proposal, it is essential to weigh the benefits that these facility and educational enhancements would bring to students and the community. This bond is part of HISD’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have access to safe, supportive, and modern learning environments.


Understanding the relationship between the bond, property taxes, and the district’s goals for educational improvements is key to shaping the future of education in Houston. Voters are encouraged to visit HISD’s website for more information and to participate in discussions that will impact the future of our schools.


This information is provided for educational purposes only, without endorsement or opposition to the bond measure.


39 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page