Big Country voters approve VATRE in two school districts

TAYLOR COUNTY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – Two of the most-watched and discussed items on the Taylor County Ballot this November are the Voter-approved Tax Ratification Election (VATRE) proposals before district voters in Abilene ISD and Jim Ned ISD. Both districts voted in favor of the measures, meaning each will be able to plan for increased funding for local operations, infrastructure, and district employment.

A VATRE is a tax rate change proposed by the district that must gain majority voter approval before being accepted. It differs from a bond in that it is not allowed for employee compensation or daily operations. Both districts have emphasized the importance of staying competitive to attract and retain the best educational talent for Big Country students.

In AISD’s case, the administration has laid out a clear plan for where and how those funds are needed. The district website states that costs have been outpacing state funding, and current projections anticipate a $3.4 million deficit for the 2025-26 school year. Administration stated “the additional funds generated could be used to potentially offset inflationary pressures, including, but not limited to, salary increases to maintain competitiveness in the market. These funds could also be used to close the gap on the deficit budget caused by inflation and rising costs of healthcare and utilities, and to address an aging bus fleet.”

And the passing of Jim Ned ISD’s VATRE means that the around $800,000 will “be used for the funding of daily operating expenses such as staff, instruction, transportation, maintenance, utilities, and extracurricular activities.”

For more information on planning and community involvement opportunities, please visit the links above on for further details.