In regard to my critics who strongly disagree with my position that ACC is not right for our district, you conveniently ignored the facts I exposed. We all want to feel good doing the right thing. In this case it is to “just say no”. Our grandchildren will thank us. Educate yourself. Why are you so threatened by my opposing point of view? Visit NOACCTAX.COM.
According to the Higher Education Coordinating Board, ACC Round Rock enrollment increased by 1,904 full-time equivalent students two years after annexation with RRISD taxpayers strengthening the coffers of ACC by $39 million. It was not 4,000 full-time equivalent students as suggested.
Unlike school district’s, ACC’s over 65 exemption, it is not statutory. The ACC board can eliminate this exemption at any time. At creation ACC promised a tax rate of no more than 5 cents. It is nearly twice that today. They can go as high as $1.00. Don’t let them tell you different. Based on their expansion plans, tax rates will most likely increase once annexation is completed.
When does cradle to grave entitlement expansion with borrowed money stop? If we want to do this, it must be done cheaper. ACC already charges 60% more for out-of-district tuition than the average for all community colleges in Texas. They inflated the tuition rate to strengthen their odds for annexation. The Texas Education Code allows for community colleges to offer in-district tuition without annexation and this is occurring in Kerrville now with the school district providing facilities at no charge. The Academy facility can house 600 plus students and the Academy’s 100 students can relocate to Hays High School. This saves taxpayers $4 million annually. Explore all alternatives first. Why pay $109,000 acre for 93 acres to Plum Creek? Follow the money.
We are already losing the battle to recruit and retain upper middle class residents. If annexation passes, expect a new waive of starter homes. School taxes go up again! That’s the economic development they covet, no matter what the cost to the next generation. That’s not my brand of stimulus.
Bryce Bales
Manchaca
