Voters in the Boerne Independent School District (ISD) showed a slight preference for a proposed property tax increase aimed at enhancing the district’s operations, based on early voting results. The measure, which seeks to raise the tax rate by 2 cents to $1.0109 per $100 of assessed property value, is projected to generate approximately $4.8 million annually. This increase would be exempt from the state’s recapture laws, allowing Boerne ISD to retain the funds for local needs.
The district, which spans across Kendall, Bexar, and Comal counties, argues that the additional revenue will help address significant challenges, including competitive teacher salaries and various capital and facility requirements. Officials noted a concerning trend, revealing that the district lost one in five teachers last year and cut $1.4 million from administrative expenses.
During early voting, about 54% of participants favored the tax increase. However, as the night progressed, the margin became tighter. By 11:30 p.m., unofficial results indicated that of the 12,174 total ballots cast across the three counties, 51.3% approved while 48.7% opposed the increase. In Kendall County, voters narrowly rejected the tax hike with 4,082 votes against and 4,014 in favor. Contrastingly, Bexar County voters supported the measure, leading with 2,123 votes for and 1,751 against it. Comal County saw marginal support as well, with 104 in favor and 100 opposed.
In related local elections, voters in Cibolo were selecting three City Council members and a new mayor. Kara Latimer was leading the mayoral race against Terry Hinze with 57% of the vote, while incumbent Randy Roberts appeared to maintain his Place 2 Council seat against challenger David Freimarck. The Place 3 council race was poised for a runoff, with Marissa-Ellen Patterson leading, followed closely by Maria Fishback.
In Schertz, the mayor’s office and two City Council seats were contested. Challenger Ralph Rodriguez held a slim advantage over incumbent Mayor Ralph Gutierrez with 2,433 votes to 2,370 as of the latest count. Mark Davis retained his Place 1 seat unopposed, while Place 2 incumbent Michelle Watson was expected to win against challenger John Carbon.
These election outcomes reflect a robust engagement from voters in the region, the implications of which could significantly affect local governance and education quality in the area. The upcoming results will determine how well the district can navigate its operational challenges while local council dynamics are shaped by these crucial electoral decisions.