FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is a bond election?
A bond election is held to ask voters to approve or disapprove using tax dollars for specific capital improvements or purchases such as new construction, renovations, or student transportation. Bond funds stay local and cannot be used for district operations like salaries or daily utilities.
2. Can bond funds be used for district expenses, like salaries?
No. Bond funds cannot be used for daily district operations, including salaries.
3. What percentage of the bond's debt is paid by the state?
The Existing Debt Allotment (EDA) program is a State of Texas subsidy (administered by the Texas Education Agency ) that provides state aid to property-poor school district to help pay debt service on voter-approved bonds. EPISD has historically received state assistance on its voter approved debt. The subsidy is based on district property wealth and legislative funding levels (biennial appropriations). Currently, the district receives 26% state assistance for payment of voter approved debt.
4. What priorities were considered when selecting which schools should be renovated?
When deciding which schools should be renovated, facilities committee members weighed in on a combination of practical educational and safety priorities which included:
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Building Conditions and Safety: Schools with aging infrastructure, structural issues, poor ventilation and safety hazards were prioritized to ensure students and staff have a safe instructional environment.
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Classrooms Settings: Classrooms that are undersized (according to TEA standards) or that were in portable classroom settings were prioritized, since renovations can relieve capacity issues and education can be prioritized in a safer school environment.
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Educational Impact: Providing classrooms that support current and future, student-centered and flexible learning environments.
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Structural and Infrastructure: Assessing the condition of electrical systems, plumbing, roof conditions and HVAC systems were prioritized to avoid future failures and improve sustainability.
The goal of the committee is to renovate campuses that will provide long-term educational benefit in the years to come.
5. What is the estimated tax rate increase if the bond passes?
The proposed tax rate increase is $0.1711, resulting in a new rate of $.2409.
6. Who comprised the Facilities Committee that recommended the bond?
The Facilities Improvement Committee was comprised of 24 individuals, 18 of which were community members, representing a wide variety of experiences, perspectives and knowledge.