District voters approve two HISD bond propositions

Hallettsville Independent School District voters passed Propositions A and B of the proposed 2024 bond, approving $11.1 million for safety and security upgrades at every campus and expansion and renovation of the junior high.

Voters did not approve Proposition C for a new gym, multipurpose facility, and baseball/softball complex renovations. More than 1,100 voters turned out for the election.

“We’re deeply appreciative of the unwavering support that our community extends to our schools, our students, and our staff,” HISD superintendent Dr. Jo Ann Bludau said. “This is a remarkable school district that I’m honored to serve.”

These are the first passed propositions in Hallettsville ISD since 2014.

Preliminary results, which will become official later this month when the Hallettsville ISD Board of Trustees canvasses the votes, show that 63.1% of voters (693) were in favor of Proposition A.

More than 62.6% (687) voted for Proposition B, and 44.9% (495) voted for Proposition C.

With the approval of the bond propositions, the district is now set to embark on the next phase. This includes collaborating with architects to initiate a competitive bidding process for each project, finalizing a construction schedule, and working with the district financial advisors to establish a bond program schedule.

The state of Texas doesn’t provide funding for facilities. By law, bond funds may not be used to fund daily operating expenses or salaries. Bond funds may not be used for projects approved by district voters.

“It’s left up to the community to find a way to expand existing schools or renovate outdated facilities,” Bludau said. “We’ve worked hard through the years to manage funds conservatively.”

2024 Bond results (unofficial)

Prop A:

For …………… 693(63.11%)

Against ……… 405(36.89%)

Prop B:

For …………… 687(62.57)

Against ……… 411(37.43%)

Prop C:

For …………… 493(44.86%)

Against ……… 606(55.14%)