BISD to place tax rate election on November ballot

The Boerne Independent School District Board of Trustees has unanimously approved a Voter Approval Tax Rate Election (VATRE) set for November 4, 2025.  The election will ask voters to consider a three-cent increase to the district’s Maintenance and Operations tax rate, potentially generating an estimated $4.8 million annually for the district.

Approximately 37 percent of this funding would come from the state, and none of the revenue would be subject to recapture, ensuring it remains within the district for local priorities.  “Our district has worked hard to be good stewards of public funds, including identifying reductions in our administrative costs,” said Dr. Kristin Craft, Boerne ISD Superintendent.  “We are committed to providing the community with clear, factual information about this election and what it would mean for our schools.”

The district has already cut over $1.4 million from administrative budgets through attrition and reorganization.  Funds from the VATRE would be allocated for classroom instruction, staff compensation, and student programs.

Homeowners aged 65 and older with a homestead exemption will not see an increase above their frozen tax amount under state law.  They are estimated to see an average $670 reduction in their tax bill.  If both the VATRE and a proposed state property tax relief measure are approved, Boerne ISD homeowners under 65 may see an estimated $80 reduction in their overall school district bill.

Early voting is scheduled from October 20 to October 31, 2025, with Election Day on November 4, 2025.  Voter registration closes on October 6, 2025.  Additional resources will be available at Boerne ISD.net/VATRE.