Rapid growth drives Eagle Mountain-Saginaw school bond election. Here’s what’s planned
Growth isn’t showing signs of slowing down in the Eagle Mountain-Saginaw school district northwest of downtown Fort Worth.
To keep pace and to address safety and security needs, the district is asking voters to approve a $659.1 million bond package. Early voting for the Nov. 7 election continues through Nov. 3.
The 23,763-student district is growing by 700 per year, and 3,950 lots are under development within its boundaries. The proposals are expected to accommodate the growth for seven years, according to the district.
Wayside and Prairie Vista middle schools will soon be over capacity.
What’s on the ballot
There are four propositions on the ballot, and property owners will see a slight increase to the debt service portion of the school district’s tax rate, about $3 to the average tax bill, according to the district.
Proposition A is for $540.9 million new schools, renovations and safety and security.
Some of the projects include replacing Wayside Middle and Saginaw Elementary, the oldest school building in the district with roots dating to the late 1800s. The school district wants to keep historic aspects, such as the old school bell, classrooms and a 1930s era auditorium. An elementary and middle school would be built to keep pace with growth in the northern part of the district.
Playground surfaces would be improved at 17 campuses and additional security cameras would be placed around the district.
Proposition B is for $20.2 million to purchase technology.
Proposition C is for $47 million for athletic facility improvements at Saginaw High School, including a multipurpose center, locker room, weight training room and team room. The facilities are needed for equity with Boswell High School and the new Eagle Mountain High School, which is projected to open in 2024.
Proposition D is for $51 million for a natatorium The natatorium would be used for district water sports and community programs such as drowning prevention campaigns and health and fitness classes.