Early voting closing; make your voice heard
As early voting comes to a close for the election Saturday, we strongly encourage readers to cast their ballots. While this election has not received much attention, it has immense local consequence.
The headliner for this election, of course, is the city’s $1.2 billion bond, which will not raise taxes. We strongly recommend voters support the bond, which is so necessary to address persistent infrastructure needs and prepare the city for future growth.
The bond will fund much-needed drainage and streets infrastructure, expand the city’s greenway trail system, improve and expand parks and green spaces, and build and preserve affordable housing.
Voters in Harlandale and Northside ISDS will weigh in on muchneeded school bonds. We support both bonds as well. Voters in Northside ISD should be aware that statemandated ballot language that says the bond will raise taxes is not accurate. The Northside ISD bond does not raise taxes. While the Harlandale ISD bond would raise taxes, the improvements are desperately needed and the district is moving in a positive direction. Invest in our children.
Also on the education front, three trustees with North East ISD are up for re-election, facing a slate of socalled “parental rights” candidates. We strongly encourage voters to stick with the incumbents.
And two state constitutional amendments would lower property taxes.
Election Day is Saturday. Later this month, voters get the chance to cast ballots again as Texas shifts to the Democratic and Republican primaries. That election will occur May 24, with early voting beginning May 16.
We hope our recommendations are helpful and, at least, serve as a starting point for your own research. Please, cast a ballot.
State of Texas Proposition 1: For
This proposition would lower property taxes for homeowners who are elderly or disabled, allowing them to receive the benefits other homeowners received under a 2019 law that reduced property taxes.
State of Texas Proposition 2: For
Proposition 2 would increase from $25,000 to $40,000 the residence homestead exemption from ad valorem taxes for public school purposes.
Alamo Community College District 2 trustee
We recommend Gloria Ray.
City of San Antonio bond
• Proposition A: For.
Would dedicate $471.5 million toward 62 streets projects, including $100.5 million to repair “F” streets where the pavement has deteriorated.
• Proposition B: For.
Would designate nearly $170 million for 23 drainage and flood control projects.
• Proposition C: For.
Would dedicate nearly $272 million to preserve and expand green spaces, including $103.5 million to continue the expansion of the greenway system.
• Proposition D: For.
Would dedicate more than $58 million to nine library and cultural facilities.
• Proposition E: For.
Would dedicate more than $78 million to six projects, including a new police substation and two new fire stations.
• Proposition F: For.
Would dedicate $150 million to address the housing affordability crisis in San Antonio to build new homes, renovate existing homes and provide homeless assistance.
This election is an opportunity to invest in our city and in education
Harlandale Independent School District bond
• Proposition A: For.
Would dedicate $93.5 million for facilities, including career and technical education and ROTC buildings, gym and multipurpose buildings, athletic facility renovations and technology space.
• Proposition B: For.
Would dedicate $22 million to refund maintenance tax obligations.
• Proposition C: For.
Would dedicate $9.5 million to complete Memorial Stadium, which has no locker rooms.
North East Independent School District trustees
• District 2: Terri Williams • District 3: Omar Leos • District 7: Sandy Winkley
Northside Independent School District bond
• Proposition A: For.
This $992 million bond is largely focused on improving existing schools, including addressing infrastructure, technology, transportation and security needs. Again, it would not raise taxes.