COPPERAS COVE, Texas — The Copperas Cove Independent School District Board of Trustees has unanimously voted to initiate a School Bond Election on Saturday, May 4.
Early voting is set to start on April 22 and conclude on April 30.
Following extensive debates, a Facilities Advisory Committee, composed of 34 members from the Copperas Cove ISD community, was formed in November 2021.
Their comprehensive assessment, conducted in collaboration with district staff and administration, included campus tours to identify critical issues. The proposal, presented to the Board of Trustees as a long-term plan, incorporates key recommendations for implementation.
Superintendent Dr. Joe Burns underscored the imperative nature of the decision, noting the district's sustained growth since its last capital investment in 2005. With an estimated enrollment of 8,200 students presently, demographic forecasts anticipate an additional 1,000 students within the next three years and 2,000 students over the subsequent eight years.
"It’s been nearly 20 years since we had a bond passed in Copperas Cove ISD, and our district continues to grow," Dr. Burns said. "I want to thank the advisory committee, our staff, and board members for all their hard work over the past two-and-a-half years to get us to this point and helping to identify the needs of the students we serve that this bond proposal helps address."
Unlike many other states, Texas school districts do not receive state funding for infrastructure projects. This lead them to rely on local initiatives such as school bond elections. The upcoming 2024 Bond will present voters with a $175 million package compacted into one proposition.
Proposition A encompasses includes Copperas Cove High School renovations and expansion, district-wide renovations and upgrades, safety and security enhancements, and the relocation of athletics facilities.
If approved, homeowners with properties valued at $200,000—the district's average market value—can expect an estimated monthly impact of $27.81.
Recent legislative reforms have added in the largest property tax cut in Texas history, easing concerns for homeowners. Notably, disabled veterans or surviving spouses meeting specific criteria for property tax exemptions would not experience an increase in taxes, even with the bond's passage.
For comprehensive details on bond projects, financial implications, and voting logistics, residents can visit the district's official website.