Mesquite Independent School District (MISD) is placing a Voter Approved Tax Rate Election (VATRE) on the November 3, 2026 ballot, asking residents to raise the maintenance‑and‑operations (M&O) property tax to $1.1762 per $100 valuation. According to NBCDFW, the increase represents a 16.3% rise in M&O tax revenue, generating an additional $16,009,008 for the district.
The district says the extra funding would “support recruiting and retaining educators and staff, student programs and opportunities, and safety and security across the district.” MISD also warned that, despite having trimmed $50 million in spending over the past two years, current financial projections show a deficit beginning in the 2027‑28 school year.
For homeowners, the proposed rate translates to an average monthly cost of $8.75 on a home valued at $250,000 with a $140,000 homestead exemption, NBCDFW reported. The ballot language includes the state‑mandated disclaimer, “This is a property tax increase,” to ensure voters understand the fiscal impact.
Early voting for the 2026 midterm election begins Monday, Oct. 19, and runs through Friday, Oct. 30, with polling locations listed for Collin, Dallas, Denton, and Tarrant counties. Election Day is set for Tuesday, Nov. 3, when polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Voters will also decide on federal, state, county and judicial races, as well as other local propositions. The MISD VATRE appears alongside these contests, giving Mesquite residents a direct say in how their schools are funded for the coming year.
What’s next: Residents can review the full ballot language and voting locations on the Dallas County Elections website. Those who prefer to vote in person may do so on Election Day, while early voters have until 7 p.m. on Oct. 30 to cast their ballots. The district encourages community members to participate, noting that the approved tax rate will take effect for the upcoming fiscal year.
Sources: nbcdfw.com
