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Published on January 24, 2025
Hays CISD Considers Historic $986 Million Bond Proposal Amidst Student Population BoomSource: Google Street View

The Hays Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) Board of Trustees is on the brink of presenting a nearly one billion dollar bond to the voters this coming May. This bond, at a hefty $986 million, is meant to tackle the rapid enrollment growth that has been a constant challenge for the district, which has seen an increase of approximately 1,000 students since last year. The board's final meeting this Thursday was a pivotal moment for public input, offering a last chance for the community to sternly express their views before any decision is set in stone.

According to CBS Austin, Tim Savoy, the spokesperson for Hays CISD, underscored the urgency for community engagement, urging residents, "Now's the time to help, you know, have your opinion heard before the board decides." With projections indicating this growth spurt to persist well into the next decade, the district appears to be acting swiftly to prepare adequately for the influx.

The bond in question is segmented into five propositions, with Proposition A accounting for over $469 million alone. Proposed plans within Propositions B and C include the construction of a new high school, rounding out to a substantial $424 million. Additional propositions bring the total to $986 million, a sum that has sparked considerable conversation within the local population.

Public concern over the bond's price tag has been voiced, especially in the face of inflation affecting building materials costs. "I'll tell you price has been a big discussion in the community," Savoy stated in an interview acquired by MSN. However, Savoy was keen to assert that despite the eye-watering figures, the projected costs are to be spread out more so than in the past due to the district's expansion in taxpayers.

Importantly, Savoy emphasized that, if passed, taxpayers wouldn't see an increase in their tax rate as a result of the bond. The final decision stands poised on the edge of a meeting set for Monday, with a deadline of February 14 to determine if the community will indeed have the chance to cast their ballots on this landmark proposal.