CFISD board sends voter‑approval tax‑rate election to voters, 6–1

The Cypress‑Fairbanks ISD Board of Trustees voted 6–1 to adopt an order calling a voter‑approval tax‑rate election (VADER) to be placed before district voters. Trustees said the decision asks the community to decide whether to accept an increase in the tax rate rather than the board imposing cuts that would affect services.

Multiple public commenters and education employees urged voters to approve the measure. Nikki Cowart, identifying herself as president of the district teachers' union, told the board, “Our union wholeheartedly supports both Evader and Bond and implore all voters to stand with us and vote in favor of public education this fall.” Trustees clarified that final proposition amounts and scope will be within the board’s discretion when presented to the voters.