Why does the AISD need this bond?
The bond is based on our needs and commitment to Arlington students. A district wide audit by Jacobs Engineering in 2013 revealed extensive building repair needs. In addition, overcrowding at the elementary level necessitates two new elementary schools.
Coupled with our needs is our commitment to give Arlington students a world-class education. We strive to ensure that each student will graduate from high school prepared for his or her college or career of choice. In keeping with this mission, the bond will provide improved resources in the areas of fine arts, career and technical education, athletics and agriculture. It will also grant improved access for students and teachers to technology and improve school security.
What can be funded through school bonds?
Texas law governs what revenue raised from school bonds may be used for. Texas Education Code §45.001(a)(1) says bonds may be issued for:
“(A) the construction, acquisition, and equipment of school buildings in the district;
(B) the acquisition of property or the refinancing of property financed under a contract entered under Subchapter A, Chapter 271, Local Government Code, regardless of whether payment obligations under the contract are due in the current year or a future
(C) the purchase of the necessary sites for school buildings; and
(D) the purchase of new school buses.”
What will be funded by the 2014 AISD Bond?
The AISD 2014 Bond will provide much needed funds for improvements in the areas of facilities, fine arts, safety, security and technology and transportation. For more details click Overview.
How was the 2014 Bond program developed?
Jacob’s Project Management conducted a comprehensive facilities condition assessment for AISD consisting of several data gathering components: a review of the entire facility portfolio, an educational adequacy assessment, a capacity analysis, a facility condition assessment, a 5-year life cycle forecast, and a review of AISD enrollment projections. The data was used to formulate the total districtwide investment needs for the next five years.
The AISD Board of Trustees then formed and charged a Capital Needs Steering Committee to provide recommendations to the Board for prioritized facility and capital needs through 2019 to support the district’s strategic plan. The 38-member committee met for five months, examined the Jacob’s facility audit, sought input at two community dialogue meetings and finally drafted the 2014 Bond Package.
How much will taxes go up?
The tax rate to support the bond package will cost the owner of a $100,000 home about $126 per year or $10 per month more than they are currently paying in taxes. Taxpayers over age 65 will incur no tax increase.
How long will it take to implement the bond?
The district has a five-year plan to implement all aspects of the bond.
Which schools will have projects funded by the bond?
All AISD schools will receive updates and repairs, except Adams and Patrick Elementary because they are new schools.