HAYS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) – For the first time, Hays Consolidated Independent School District voters head to the polls to consider a tax rate increase.

Officials said the 12-cent increase is needed to offset inflation, boost teachers’ salaries, cover rising utility costs and other district operation expenses. The district said if voters reject the increase, it would likely have to cut positions and consolidate schools.

“With inflation in the state not keeping pace with revenue increases for our basic allotment over the last three legislative sessions, we felt that it was time to [ask] our local constituents to support the school district,” Hays CISD Superintendent Eric Wright told KXAN in October.

Wright said if it passes, “it would generate an additional $26 million a year. Immediately

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