Austin Public School District board calls special election on $66.7 million facilities bond referendum

The Austin Public School District board voted to call a special election on a two-question bond referendum that would authorize $66,700,000 in facility work, board members said at the meeting.

The measure as presented would ask voters to approve Question 1, a $54,700,000 package for major repairs and renovations across eight district buildings — including upgraded mechanical systems, safer entrances, accessible restrooms and classroom renovations — and Question 2, a $12,000,000 renovation and expansion of the 50-year-old Ellis Middle School. Question 2 would only take effect if Question 1 also passes.

Why it matters: Board leaders and administrators said the district’s facility assessment and planning process, begun in 2023, identified aging systems and safety/accessibility needs across multiple buildings. District officials said delaying the work risks higher costs later and further degradation of learning spaces; they also noted that state aid…