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The San Antonio Independent School Board’s decision Monday night to place a half-billion dollar bond issue before the voters was not a popular one. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.
August 18, 2010 · SAISD board members presented the public with a long-range strategic plan, showing where the proposed $515 million will go over the next 10 to 12 years. The bulk of the funds, almost $350 million, is slated for renovations and improvements to schools.
Much of the opposition to the bond issue centered on the proposed $35 million improvements to Alamo Stadium, which Spurs Sports & Entertainment desires to use as a professional soccer field. However, Board President James Howard said the stadium improvements are in keeping with the long-range plan and that the board was not influenced by the Spurs organization.
Some citizens complained that the district passed bond issues in the past and did not use the funds for designated projects.
Details of the plan include consolidating five schools, which the board says will save $100 million over 10 years. For the average homeowner, the board reported property taxes would increase by $1.58/month in 2012 and peak at $9.97/month in 2027. Seniors would be exempted from tax increases for their homestead properties.
The board voted to place the issue on the November 2 ballot and said they will roll up their sleeves, knock on doors, and get the word out to get a successful passage of the bond package.
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