Voters in the Eanes Independent School District approved an $80 million bond proposal Saturday that includes projects in safety & security, student programs & support, energy efficiency & conservation, and facilities. The bond also includes new spaces for the Westlake High School aquatics and wrestling programs and expanded space for the robotics and engineering programs.
The voters approved the lone proposition at 82.5 percent.
The bond is not expected to increase the tax rate and accommodates pre-paying existing debt, as well as allowing for accelerated debt payments on the proposed bonds.
“We are thankful to our residents for showing their support of our students and staff, and for helping to continue our commitment to excellence,” said Dr. Tom Leonard, superintendent of schools. “The passage of this bond brings incredible opportunities for our students at all levels and takes the pressure off our Maintenance and Operations (M&O) budget, which is needed to pay for teacher salaries.”
The major components of the bond address facility needs at campuses that range in age from 22- to 91-years-old in five categories:
Safety & Security Projects:
- Perimeter fencing/barriers
- Campus emergency notification systems
- Security cameras & access controls
- Cyber security infrastructure
- Fire alarm systems
Student Programs & Support Projects:
- Fine Arts equipment
- Athletics uniforms & equipment
- Classroom flexible furniture
- Library upgrades & refurbishments
- Buses
- School bus seat belts
- Student technology
- Classroom technology/lab devices
- Staff technology
- Audio/Video in classrooms
- Performing Arts Center lighting & technology
Energy Efficiency & Conservation Projects:
- Energy-efficient windows
- LED lighting retrofit
- Room occupancy lighting control sensors
Facilities Projects:
- Campus refurbishments (painting & flooring)
- Plumbing, electrical
- Middle schools – artificial turf replacement
- HVAC
- Roofing
Co- and Extra-Curricular Spaces:
- Aquatics Center
- Robotics expansion
- Wrestling space
For a complete list of projects, visit www.eanesbond.com.
Eanes ISD will start projects that may be completed while students are away over the summer. More extensive construction-related projects will commence after necessary zoning and permitting approvals are obtained and other details are determined, which will likely be in the next year.
