The Aquilla Independent School District (AISD) Board of Trustees voted unanimously in February to place a $12 million bond issue on the Saturday, May 4 ballot, consisting of two separate propositions involving instructional and athletic upgrades. Voters will be able to support one or both propositions.
District officials reported that the facilities planning process involved a diverse group of volunteers from across the community, including citizens, board members, staff and parents.
The committee worked with the board to evaluate data, including facility capacities, enrollment trends, the financial health of the district – including bonding capacity – and a district-wide facilities assessment. Previous bond proposals were also discussed.
These efforts culminated in a recommendation that would give the voters an opportunity to vote on propositions, providing them the option of supporting one or both areas of need as determined by the facilities committee.
The recommended plan includes new construction, additional classrooms, a multipurpose center and a new track and field.
The district’s financial advisor has determined that there would not be a tax rate increase for Proposition A. If home valuations increase and the tax rate remains constant, homeowners will see a slight tax increase due to the home valuations.
Proposition B would increase the district’s I&S tax rate by 10 cents per $100 valuation, bringing it to $1.21, which was the same tax rate in 2022.
The independent propositions include:
Proposition A (Instructional)
- Seven additional instructional classrooms
- multipurpose center
- additional parking
- access drive (asphalt)
Proposition B (Athletics) - Eight-lane track and field (natural grass)
- Concessions and restrooms at stadium
- Bleachers/press box/field lighting
Aquilla residents who are registered to vote by April 4 will have the opportunity to vote on the bond referendum beginning with early voting April 22-30 and on Election Day, May 4.
For more information or questions, voters can email bond@aquillaisd.net.
The Lakelander 