On Nov. 6, voters who reside in Richardson ISD will be asked to increase the district's maintenance and operations tax rate by 13 cents to $1.17 per $100 home valuation—the maximum allowed by the state.

Through approval of the tax rate increase, the district says it can avoid a $54.1 million budget shortfall over the next five years. Without it, RISD officials say they will be unable to provide salary increases, hire additional safety and special education personnel, raise wages for hourly workers and maintain reasonable student-to-teacher classroom ratios.

The district estimates a $305 annual increase in property taxes for the average Richardson home valued at $288,794.

In anticipation of Election Day, RISD officials have held public meetings at various schools throughout the district and given presentations to over 2,000 citizens and community members. Over the next few weeks, two additional meetings will give voters the opportunity to learn more about the proposed tax increase and ask questions.

Upcoming meetings include:

Oct. 3, 7 p.m.: Berkner High School Lecture Hall, 1600 E. Spring Valley Road, Richardson

Oct. 13, 9 a.m.: RISD Administration Building, 420 S. Greenville Ave., Richardson

In addition to public meetings, Superintendent Jeannie Stone said at a board meeting Monday, Sept. 24 that 45,000 comprehensive mailers outlining details of the proposed increase had been sent to RISD residents. Another round of mailers will go out prior to Election Day, she said.

To learn more about the tax ratification election, visit the district's dedicated webpage.