Leander ISD will set the 2019-20 budget this year, which may have to take into account state recapture costs. Texas school districts deemed “property-wealthy” must share property tax revenue with “property-poor” districts through Chapter 41 of Texas Education Code, commonly known as the “Robin Hood” system.

Classified as a Chapter 41 district since 2009, LISD has not yet been required to pay significant recapture costs. However, LISD expects to begin paying into the system in the 2019-20 academic year, paying approximately $3 million through installments from February through August 2020.

The exact recapture costs over the upcoming years are dependent on property value growth and the decisions of the 86th Legislature, which could decide to alter the laws. LISD Chief Financial Officer Lucas Janda said if the legislature ends in May, the district will have the information in time for budget adoption.