Why the Chamber Supports Both San Angelo ISD Bond Proposals

OPINION — The San Angelo Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors voted in late August to endorse both of the latest 2018 San Angelo Independent School District bond propositions.

“We continue to advocate that the economic success of San Angelo is directly tied to the quality of our public schools, including campus infrastructure,” said C.J. Muniz, Chamber board chair.

"The San Angelo Chamber board of directors endorsed the original SAISD bond proposition, and now the latest versions, because education directly affects our economy," Muniz said.

"We're in competition with other communities that invest in educational facilities and programs,” he said. “Industries have the option to choose communities that are attractive to their employees. San Angelo has always worked to be that kind of community."

The SAISD bond proposal is now divided into two propositions. Proposition A totals $111,480,000 and Proposition B totals $34,040,000, for an overall budget of $145,520,000.

Proposition A addresses safety and security measures, handicap accessibility upgrades, aging conditions and classroom spaces through additions and renovations of existing facilities.

Proposition B addresses aging conditions, handicap accessibility upgrades, additional capacity and improved programs for extracurricular activities, fine arts and athletics through new construction. The proposals come after multiple feedback initiatives throughout the community since the failed May 2018 bond, along with additional analysis and deliberation by the SAISD Long Range Facilities Planning Committee. Chamber President and CEO Bruce R. Partain said the Chamber board studied the issue carefully, and felt the benefits made sense for all of San Angelo.

One of the Chamber's roles is to be the voice of business. As business people, we know that infrastructure and education investments enable San Angelo to be successful in the future.

School district officials estimate $65 million will return to the community through compensation benefits and salaries over five years; additionally, construction work will create 1,410 jobs for one year.

Early voting begins Monday, Oct. 22 and runs through Friday, Nov. 2. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 6.

Further information is available at the San Angelo ISD bond website.