LONGVIEW, Texas — Longview ISD board trustees on Monday night called for a $359.7 million bond election that could fund several renovations to facilities as well as new additions like a career and technical education center and early childhood center.
In this proposed bond, the district has broken down the project into two propositions. Proposition A totals about $291.9 million, while Proposition B totals roughly $67.8 million.
The bond election will happen Nov. 7 with early voting running from Oct. 24 and Nov. 3.
Funding from Proposition A would go toward:
- Safety and security: $18.45 million
- Life cycle replacements (replacing HVAC systems and other similar repair projects): $24.74 million
- Longview High School renovation and Early Graduation High School renovations: $88.76 million
- New career and technical education center: $56.65 million
- New bus barn: $7.3 million
- New early childhood center: $62.3 million
- Judson Middle School renovations and solar project: $25.6 million
- Lobo Coliseum upgrades: $8 million
Funding from Proposition B would go toward:
- Soccer/baseball/tennis renovations: $22.84 million
- Multi-purpose facility: $44.98 million
According to the school district, the LISD tax rate has gone down more than 37 cents over the last six years, leading to the current tax rate of $1.1422. If voters approve all propositions, the district said the maximum impact would be an increase of $0.007 (less than one penny) for a new rate of $1.149. This would mean $10 more per year on the average Longview ISD home valued at $200,000.
“We have spent much time studying the needs in our district and how best to serve our students. We are excited for voters to have the opportunity to make their voices heard this November,” said Michael Tubb, Longview ISD board president.
The chief priority within the bond proposal and reason for the election is safety.
“More than anything, we want to ensure our kids and staff are safe each day at school. In addition to that, we strive every day to provide the best possible learning environment for every student that walks through our doors. We hope that residents will take the time to learn more about the projects proposed, our tax rates, the other issues on the ballot, and ask questions before casting their vote in this election,” said Dr. Wayne Guidry, assistant superintendent of finance.
Voters in the area must be registered to vote by Tuesday, Oct. 10.