As early voting begins for the May 7 election, it’s understandable for voters to feel a little confused about when to cast a ballot, and perhaps also a little fatigued.
There are two elections in May.
In the first of these, the May 7 election, voters will make a number of key decisions for the city of San Antonio and area school districts. These include whether to approve a $1.2 billion city of San Antonio bond, as well as significant bonds for the Harlandale and Northside ISDs. Also, three trustees for North East ISD are up for re-election, and there are two proposed state constitutional amendments that would reduce property taxes.
The second of these, the May 24 election, is for the Democratic and Republican primary runoffs. Early voting will begin May 16.
In this editorial, we are offering our recommendations for the more significant races in the May 7 election. We strongly encourage voters to use these recommendations as a starting point in their own research and to, please, cast a ballot.
These bond packages represent the chance to address pressing infrastructure needs and invest in the community’s future. Bond packages for the city of San Antonio and Northside ISD would not raise property taxes (even though flawed state-mandated ballot language for Northside ISD’s bond will say otherwise). And while Harlandale ISD’s bond package will raise property taxes, the infrastructure needs are significant and the community investment is worthy.
State of Texas Proposition 1:
For
This proposition would lower property taxes for homeowners who are elderly or disabled, allowing them to receive the benefits other homeowners received under a 2019 law that reduced property taxes.
State of Texas Proposition 2:
For
Proposition 2 would increase from $25,000 to $40,000 the residence homestead exemption from ad valorem taxes for public school purposes.
Alamo Community College District 2 trustee
We recommend Gloria Ray.
City of San Antonio bond
Proposition A:
For.
Would dedicate $471.5 million toward 62 streets projects, including $100.5 million to repair “F” streets where the pavement has deteriorated.
Proposition B: For.
Would designate nearly $170 million for 23 drainage and flood control projects.
Proposition C: For.
Would dedicate nearly $272 million to preserve and expand green spaces, including $103.5 million to continue the expansion of the greenway system.
Proposition D: For.
Would dedicate more than $58 million to nine library and cultural facilities.
Proposition E: For.
Would dedicate more than $78 million to six projects, including a new police substation and two new fire stations.
Proposition F: For.
Would dedicate $150 million to address the housing affordability crisis in San Antonio to build new homes, renovate existing homes and provide homeless assistance.
Harlandale Independent School District bond
Proposition A:
For.
Would dedicate $93.5 million for facilities, including career and technical education and ROTC buildings, gym and multipurpose buildings, athletic facility renovations and technology space.
Proposition B: For.
Would dedicate $22 million to refund maintenance tax obligations.
Proposition C: For.
Would dedicate $9.5 million to complete Memorial Stadium, which has no locker rooms.
North East Independent School District trustees
District 2: Terri Williams
District 3: Omar Leos
District 7: Sandy Winkley
Northside Independent School District bond
Proposition A:
For.
This $992 million bond is largely focused on improving existing schools, including addressing infrastructure, technology, transportation and security needs. Again, it would not raise taxes.