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Voters in Bastrop ISD will decide Nov. 3 whether to approve a tax rate increase expected to generate about $6 million annually for the district.
The gist
Trustees triggered a voter-approval tax rate election Aug. 13 after adopting a $1.0809 tax rate for 2026-27—1.3 cents higher than the current rate.
By the numbers
The district’s maintenance and operations tax rate will depend on the outcome of the election.
For a home with a $378,000 taxable value, the annual BISD tax bill would be:
For a $378,000 home with a $140,000 homestead exemption, the annual bill would be:
Homeowners aged 65 and older with a homestead exemption would not see an increase from the VATRE.
Why it matters
The adopted 2026-27 budget included a planned $1.7 million draw from the district’s fund balance amid rising operating costs and slowing enrollment growth—which officials said affects state funding.
Chief Financial Officer Mike White said the money could balance the general fund budget and support staff compensation and campus safety.
What’s next
Early voting runs Oct. 19-30, and Election Day is Nov. 3.
If voters approve the measure, trustees will return to amend the 2026-27 budget to account for the new revenue.
