Background
The Spring Branch ISD Board of Trustees has approved a bond package to renovate, improve, and rebuild the district’s high school arts and athletic facilities, which are 58 years old on average. There are four separate propositions community members will have the chance to review and vote on. The district is proposing changes that will bring the facilities into compliance with national standards, increase accessibility and safety, provide opportunities for increased local revenue, and allow for greater community involvement.
The Facts
Fact
NO Tax Increase for Disabled or 65+ Homeowners
The average age of Spring Branch ISD’s Athletic Facilities is 58-years old
Fact
Fact
Tully Stadium is as old as the Astrodome and the second oldest high school stadium in Texas
Fact
If all four propositions pass, homeowners will experience a $142.50 increase in taxes per $500,000 home
Fact
Extracurricular involvement is correlated with better academic performance and higher college acceptance rates
These facility improvements will benefit traditional athletes, the marching band, drill team, cheerleaders, athletic trainers, spectators, and the Spring Branch community
Fact
A
Prop A | All Four High Schools
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Bring all four high schools’ athletic facilities into compliance with UIL standards
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Ensure each high school has 8 tennis courts to position them to host tournaments for various sports, resulting in increased revenue for local restaurants and businesses.
B
Prop B | Tully Stadium and Don Coleman Coliseum
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Renovate 59-year old Tully Stadium with new restrooms and concession stands, a designated Band Plaza, upgraded sound systems, and a new elevator tower
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Increase safety and security at Don Coleman Coliseum with new entry vestibules and a new roof
C
Prop C | W.W. Emmons Natatorium
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Rebuild W.W. Emmons Natatorium to accommodate the competitive high school swim, diving, and water polos teams, as well as swim lessons for the community’s youth
D
Prop D | Reggie Grob Stadium
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Increase seating at 72-year-old Reggie Grob Stadium to expand its uses to include middle school football and soccer, club sports, varsity football, lacrosse, and community events
Propositions
The impact
Tax Increase
With district facilities up to 72 years old, Spring Branch is overdue for renovations to our athletic facilities. For $631 million dollars of upgrades, homeowners are estimated to experience a $142.50 increase in their tax burden per $500,000 at which their home is valued. The average Starbucks Coffee is $7, so for the cost of 20 coffees, we can give our Spring Branch ISD athletes, band members, drill teams, cheerleaders, and families facilities they deserve.
positive impact on extracurriculars
Numerous studies have shown the positive correlation between involvement in extracurricular activities and students’ academic performance, attendance, self-esteem, social skills, and college acceptance rates. These athletic facilities will serve not only our traditional athletes, but also members of the marching band, drill team, cheerleaders, and athletic trainers, as well as spectators.
Accessibility
Many of the proposed improvements will increase the accessibility of these facilities for disabled and elderly attendees, as well as the students utilizing the spaces. Greater accessibility will result in greater community involvement, buy-in, and support.
Safety & Compliance
Currently, not all four high schools’ gyms are up to UIL standards and outdated infrastructure raises safety concerns at several of our facilities. The safety of our athletes, families, spectators, and other community members is paramount.
Local Revenue & Community Involvement
Several proposed improvements will result in more tournaments and community events being held at various SBISD venues. Increased attendance at these events, especially from those traveling from other areas of Houston, may result in increased revenue at local restaurants, hotels, and other businesses. These improvements are a win for our community.
