Richardson ISD voters approved the school district’s request for a property tax increase Tuesday. The measure passed easily, earning 53.5 percent of the vote.
“We believe this is the largest number of voters to ever vote on an RISD school proposition,” said school board president Justin Bono late last night. “That makes the support in favor of the TRE shown by our community that much more gratifying.”
RISD citizens have a history of supporting requests from the district. Though the tax ratification election (TRE) was the first of its kind, voters have never rejected a bond proposal on the ballot.
“We are thrilled with this election outcome and that our Richardson ISD community has, once again, demonstrated its commitment to and support of our students, teachers and schools,” agreed RISD Superintendent Jeannie Stone. “We are anxious to get to work implementing the measures we promised to the community. On behalf of our students, teachers, staff and the Board of Trustees, I want to say thank you to all.”
Of the 73,904 total, 39,500 voted for the measure and 34,404 voted against. Funds will be used primarily to increase teacher salaries, provide additional school security and improve special education and other programming.
“Our board and administration are excited to activate the initiatives in our budget that were contingent upon passage of this measure,” added Bono. “The additional funds generated as a result of today’s outcome will allow the district to take a big step forward in service to our students and families.”