BISD superintendent outlines $460 million school bond package and tax projections ahead of October election

Brownsville Independent School District Superintendent Jesus Chavez presented details of a two-part bond package that will appear on the November ballot, telling the City Commission on Oct. 21 that the package addresses campus repairs and a new performing arts center.

Chavez said the package includes two propositions. “There are 2 propositions,” he said, describing Proposition A as a funding measure for roofing, HVAC, lighting, plumbing, windows and other repairs across dozens of campuses and Proposition B for a new 1,800-seat performing arts center with rehearsal and meet‑room space for student groups.

Why it matters: Chavez said the package would address aging infrastructure at 39 schools and provide performance and rehearsal space intended to serve elementary, middle and high schools. He described the package as intended to limit future classroom disruptions and improve security and access at campuses.

Key details: Chavez presented numbers for the proposals while urging residents to visit the district website for project-level detail. He said Proposition A would fund improvements at 39 campuses and that the district’s materials list specific square footage and replacement needs for each site. Chavez described the total bond package as $460,000,000, while also citing two different figures for Proposition A during the presentation ($385,000,000 and $395,000,000), and directed voters to the district’s online materials for the authoritative breakdown.

On tax impacts, Chavez said projected BISD taxes for an average‑priced home had fallen in recent years and that, should the bond be approved, the first-year increase would be modest. “If you think of the bond election then being approved, then yes, that would go up by $62 next year. In other words, a slow increase,” he said. Chavez later described an illustrative figure of $4.42 for the first year and $7.52 five years out for an average home; he also said state homestead relief provisions could reduce or eliminate the tax impact for some homeowners 65 and older who qualify.

Chavez emphasized that detailed, campus‑level lists (roof square footage, window counts, security upgrades and other specifics) are posted on the BISD website and encouraged residents to review them before voting.

What’s next: Chavez said the bond propositions will be on the upcoming ballot and repeated that voters can approve either proposition independently. The district will continue public outreach and has posted full itemized project lists and tax‑projection scenarios online.