Henderson ISD board tables major stadium and large bus purchases, prioritizes phased projects

The Henderson ISD Board of Trustees reviewed a multi-year list of prioritized capital improvement needs and voted to table the largest proposed purchases until the district's April meeting. Board President Russell Brown opened a workshop where Superintendent Brian Bowman said trustees, principals and directors had identified facility needs dating back to 2019, with first-round projects kept near $2 million and larger stadium and fleet projects deferred.

Bowman described campus-specific proposals including an asphalt overlay and restriping at Henderson High School, exterior door replacements, HVAC-related water heater and dryer replacements, band hall upgrades and athletic facility work. "The proposed first round was kept to about $2 million," the superintendent said. CFO Nikki Warner reported the district had a fund balance of $18,265,125 as of Aug. 31, 2025 and, after adjustments, about $15.925 million available — figures she cited while describing funding options for one-time projects.

Trustees voted 5-0 on a motion by Shannon Coats, seconded by Dr. John Taylor, to table items 8.A.1–4 — which included the purchase of two 77-passenger buses, a 12-passenger van, replacement of the Lion Stadium playing surface and replacement of the track — to allow full board consideration in April. The board kept other capital needs under discussion for future action or phased funding. The district said it will pursue one-time uses of fund balance for smaller projects and continue to refine project priorities before spending decisions are finalized.