Bullard ISD adopts 2026-2027 budget, sets tax rates

The Bullard ISD Board of Trustees approved the district’s $34.3 million 2026-2027 budget and adopted a lower maintenance and operations tax rate during a special meeting Monday, Aug. 31.

Trustees approved a $34,322,370 budget and a total tax rate of $1.2313 per $100 of property valuation, including a $0.7313 maintenance and operations (M&O) rate and a $0.50 interest and sinking (I&S) rate.

The M&O rate decreased from $0.7469 last year, while the I&S rate remains unchanged. The I&S rate supports debt associated with the $103 million bond package approved by Bullard voters in 2022 and allows the district to continue working toward early debt retirement.

The adopted budget includes a projected $700,000 general fund shortfall. The deficit is driven by inflation and limited increases in state funding; however, it also provides for staff raises and planned transportation purchases. Bullard ISD will use a portion of its healthy fund balance to offset the shortfall while continuing to support student programs, staff, and district operations.

“We work each year with the resources we are given to build a sustainable budget that keeps students at the center of every decision,” said Ramsey Starks, chief financial officer for Bullard ISD. “While this budget includes a projected deficit, we remain confident in the financial position of Bullard ISD and our ability to continue moving forward and investing in our students, staff, and schools.”

The full 2026-2027 approved budget and tax rate history are available at www.BullardISD.net.