Conroe ISD Board Approves $2.6B Bond for May Vote

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Conroe ISD Trustees Greenlight $2.6 Billion Bond Referendum for May 4 Ballot**

**CONROE, TX – January 17, 2024** – The Conroe Independent School District’s Board of Trustees has unanimously approved a monumental $2.6 billion bond referendum, setting the stage for voters to decide on the future of the rapidly growing district in the upcoming May 4, 2024 election. The board’s decision came during its meeting on Tuesday, January 16, following extensive review and community input.

The comprehensive bond package, structured into three distinct propositions, aims to address the district’s unprecedented student growth, the urgent need to modernize aging facilities, and a commitment to bolster safety and security across all campuses. Conroe ISD currently serves approximately 75,000 students, a number projected to surge to 100,000 by the 2033-34 school year.

“This bond is not about if we build, but when,” stated Superintendent Dr. Curtis Null. “Our community is growing at an incredible rate, and this bond package is a direct response to ensure we can continue to provide quality education in safe, modern facilities for every student.”

**Addressing Growth and Modernization: The Three Propositions**

The proposed bond is divided as follows:

* **Proposition A ($2.427 Billion):** This largest component is dedicated primarily to constructing new facilities to alleviate overcrowding and accommodate future enrollment. It includes plans for 14 new schools: six elementary, four intermediate, two junior high, and two high schools. Beyond new construction, Proposition A also covers major renovations and additions at 14 existing campuses, district-wide safety and security enhancements (such as controlled entry vestibules, advanced access control systems, expanded camera surveillance, improved fencing, and updated PA systems), technology infrastructure upgrades, and the acquisition of new buses for the transportation fleet. A significant portion is also earmarked for purchasing land for future school sites, a critical step in managing long-term growth.

* **Proposition B ($75.5 Million):** This proposition focuses on enhancing performing arts and athletic facilities. Specific improvements are planned for The Woodlands High School and Oak Ridge High School, ensuring these programs have the necessary infrastructure to support student excellence.

* **Proposition C ($97.5 Million):** The final proposition will fund a new transportation center and operational facility. These essential infrastructure upgrades are crucial for maintaining efficient daily logistics, managing a growing bus fleet, and supporting the broader operations of an expanding school district.

**Taxpayer Impact: “Zero-Cent Tax Rate Increase” Explained**

A key aspect of the bond proposal for taxpayers is the district’s assertion of a “zero-cent tax rate increase.” Conroe ISD anticipates maintaining its current Interest & Sinking (I&S) tax rate of $0.22 per $100 valuation.

This is possible, according to district officials, by leveraging existing I&S tax capacity and benefiting from the significant growth in the district’s overall property tax base. While the district’s property tax *rate* for debt service is projected to remain unchanged, it is important for homeowners to note that individual property tax *bills* can still increase due to rising property appraisals, even if the tax rate remains constant. The bond’s funding mechanism relies on the additional revenue generated from new construction and increased property values within the district without raising the specific debt service tax rate.

**Community-Driven Recommendations**

The substantial bond recommendations originated from the Citizen’s Facilities Planning Committee (CFPC), a diverse group of over 100 community members. This committee dedicated seven months to thoroughly analyzing district needs, touring various facilities, and engaging in detailed discussions before presenting their comprehensive findings to the Board of Trustees.

Board President Skeeter Hubert underscored the rigorous process: “The CFPC’s work was incredibly thorough, demonstrating the urgent and undeniable need to address the district’s rapid expansion. This bond package is a testament to their dedication and our community’s commitment to our students.”

Conroe ISD last passed a bond referendum in 2019, a $677.5 million package that funded new schools and renovations. The scale of this new proposal reflects the accelerated growth seen in the Conroe and The Woodlands areas.

Voters in Conroe ISD will have the opportunity to cast their ballots on May 4, 2024. Early voting typically begins a few weeks prior to election day. The district encourages all residents to learn more about the propositions and their potential impact.

For additional information, voters are encouraged to visit the official Conroe ISD website at [Conroe ISD Bond Information Page – *placeholder for actual link once available*] or the Montgomery County Elections website.

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**About Conroe Independent School District:**
Conroe ISD is a rapidly growing public school district committed to providing a quality education for all students. Serving a diverse community, CISD continually strives for excellence in academics, arts, and athletics, fostering environments where students can thrive and succeed.