During a called meeting on February 10, Redwater ISD’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously to call a $13,200,000 bond election for the May 3, 2025 ballot.
The District’s Facility Advisory Committee, representing a cross-section of the community, played a key role in this decision. Parents, teachers, staff, students and community members shared their unique perspectives as the committee identified needs and developed a recommendation for the Board.
Committee members reviewed the district’s current facilities, studied demographic data, learned about school finance, Redwater ISD’s historical tax rate, as well as discussing academic priorities and long-range plans with district admin-istration. After careful consideration, the committee reached consensus on a prioritized list of needs to recommend to the Board.
“After studying the District’s current facilities and facility use, the community facilities committee recommended projects impacting facilities used by multiple student groups, identifying renovations to the High School including High School Band Hall and Gymnasium as well as the field turf and track. As the first bond since 2017, this bond package will impact facilities used by various different student curricular and UIL programs in Redwater,” Sarah Robinson, Board President.
The proposed projects are presented as two propositions for voter consideration. If approved, they would focus on addressing aging facilities and making improvements to athletic and educational spaces.
Proposition A includes athletic improvements at the stadium including a new track, turf field, and fencing. Proposition B includes expansion and renovation of the high school band hall, gym lobby, and other district improvements and renovations.
“I sincerely appreciate the members of the District Community Facility Advisory Committee comprised of community members, staff, and students as well as the Board of Trustees for their work in identifying the district’s facility priorities and potential solutions,” Dr. Kelly Burns, Superintendent.
If voters approve the bond, the District’s Interest & Sinking (I&S) Tax Rate would increase $0.271, resulting in an estimated cost of $28.56 per month, or $342.71 annually, for the owner of a $226,310 homestead (the average value in RISD).
The tax chart included with this story shows that Redwater ISD’s tax rate falls below many of the similar school districts in Bowie County.
This tax rate would have no impact on the current homesteads of district residents aged 65 and older who have an Over 65 Exemption filed with county appraisal district (except for any new improvements).
According to the Bowie County Appraisal District, if you qualify for the over-65 or disability exemption: You may receive the over-65 or disability exemption immediately upon qualification by filing an application with their office. And you must apply before the first anniversary of your qualification date to receive the exemption for that year.
If you are the surviving spouse of someone who received the over-65 exemption, you can continue the exemption if you were 55 years old at the time of your spouse’s death and if the death occurred after December 1, 1987. This transfer is not automatic – you must apply. That form can be found on the appraisal district website at: https:// bowieappraisal.com/Forms/ Index An informational website and printed materials are being developed. School administrators also plan to visit community and parent groups to explain the bond package in detail. Please call the Administration Office at 903.671.3481 for more information regarding the bond election or to schedule a presentation.
Early voting begins Tuesday, April 22, and ends Tuesday, April 29. Election Day is Saturday, May 3.
