Leander Independent School District voters have spoken. Early voting totals released on November 4 show that 47,863 ballots – 55.2% of the vote – rejected Proposition A, while 38,772 votes – 44.8% – supported the measure.
What Proposition A would have done
Proposition A, formally known as the voter‑approval tax rate election (VATRE), sought to raise the maintenance and operations (M&O) portion of the 2026‑27 tax rate by three cents, moving the rate from $1.0869 to $1.1169 per $100 valuation. School district officials estimated the increase would generate roughly $12 million in additional revenue. About $6.7 million of that would stay in the district, with the remainder recaptured by the state.
The district explained that the extra funds would help close part of an ongoing budget shortfall, reduce the need for future program cuts, and make possible a one‑time retention bonus for employees in December.
Impact on homeowners
If the VATRE had passed, the average homeowner would have seen an annual tax bill rise by approximately $110.53 – roughly $9.21 per month – compared with the 2025‑26 fiscal year. The district noted that homeowners aged 65 or older with a homestead exemption would not be affected, and the interest and sinking (I&S) tax rate would remain unchanged at $0.33 per $100 valuation.
What the vote means for the district
Because the measure did not receive a majority, the M&O tax rate will revert to the $1.0869 per $100 valuation approved at the August 17 board meeting. District officials said the result underscores the community’s desire to keep taxes low while still seeking responsible budgeting.
Leander ISD officials have pledged to continue exploring cost‑saving measures and alternative revenue sources to address the shortfall without raising taxes. They emphasized the importance of fiscal stewardship and the district’s commitment to maintaining quality education and services for students and families.
Next steps
All results remain unofficial until canvassed. The district will update the community as final counts are certified. Voters and residents are encouraged to stay engaged with upcoming board meetings and budget discussions, ensuring transparency and accountability in how Leander ISD manages its finances.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
