The Houston Independent School District (HISD) will vote on Wednesday on a proposal to raise property taxes to fund repairs for damage caused by Hurricane Beryl.
HISD reported about $9.5 million in storm-related damages, bringing the total repair budget to more than $15 million. The proposed plan seeks to increase the property tax rate from roughly 85 cents to nearly 88 cents per $100 of taxable value, a rise of about 3 percent.
District officials plan to use a state provision known as “disaster pennies,” which allows temporary tax rate adjustments after natural disasters without voter approval. If approved, the higher rate would take effect in the 2025 tax year.
The additional revenue would primarily support roof and building repairs across Houston schools. HISD has not yet determined how much of the total repair costs will be covered through insurance claims or assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The district estimated that the tax increase would cost the average homeowner about $90 more per year. A homeowner with a property valued at $300,000 would see that approximate rise in annual property taxes beginning in 2025.
HISD continues to pursue insurance reimbursements and federal disaster relief while assessing all available funding options to complete post-hurricane repairs.
