Belton ISD introduces proposed bond projects

July 24, 2025

By Kaylee Dusang

The Belton Journal

During a recent community meeting on Thursday, July 10, Belton Independent School District shared proposed bond projects that include updates on general classroom needs as well as expansions to sports facilities, such as high school football stadiums and the Swim Center.

While a bond has not been called yet, the Bond Exploration Meeting allowed board members and district staff to share the potential projects that could be placed into a bond. The community also had an opportunity to provide feedback on how the district plans to use the bond funding.

“The Community Bond Meeting was a meaningful opportunity to hear directly from our families and community members about the proposed bond projects,” Superintendent Dr. Malinda Golden said. “The conversations were thoughtful and focused on what matters most—creating safe, functional and future-ready learning environments for all students. I’m grateful for the engagement and feedback as we continue planning for the needs of our district.”

Following the meeting, district staff asked attendees and those who were unable to attend to fill out a feedback survey on the proposed bond projects. A copy of the presentation and survey for the bond projects are available on the district website.

The proposed bonds fall into four propositions, which cover general needs, sports stadiums, technology devices, and the swim center:

Proposition A

Proposition A covers general needs to maintain the district’s aging facilities. It offers two package options – the first option (A-1) at a total of $143.3 million and the second option (A-2) at a total $126.4 million. The proposed bond addresses safety and security measures, such as updates to exterior lighting, replacing fire alarm systems, and updates to playground fencing and video surveillance. It also includes replacing HVAC systems, roofing, and classroom furniture as well as program needs that involve renovating older campuses and spaces. Community members can view a breakdown of costs for each option on the district website.

Proposition B

Proposition B covers renovations and expansions of sports stadiums at Belton High School and Lake Belton High School. The total bond is estimated at $41.4 million to address both stadiums. Both of Belton’s 5A high schools share only one competition stadium – Tiger Field at Belton High School. The bond proposes either renovating Tiger Field and/or expanding Bronco Field at Lake Belton High School. According to the proposition, Tiger Field has not been renovated since 1996, and contains infrastructure and accessibility challenges. While Bronco Stadium is newer, it does not have the capacity as a full competition stadium.

Proposition C

Proposition C covers the replacement and purchasing of technology devices. It is also broken down into two potential bond options – the first option (C-1) is estimated at $9.2 million, and the second option (C-2) is estimated at $6 million. The school district provides over 19,000 devices for students and staff, such as laptops. The proposed bond would replace student and staff devices as well as interactive flat panels for classrooms. The second bond package option removes the replacement of the interactive flat panels.

Proposition D

Proposition D proposes to build an additional swimming pool space for the district. The first option (D-1) covers the building of a new swimming facility at an estimated $16.1 million, and the second option includes a new facility as well as the expansion of the current Swim Center at $24.1 million. The district’s current Swim Center, built in 2007, will remain open in both options. Per the proposition, the additional space would allow the district to reinstate and grow their swim programs. The expansion includes a 50-meter stretch pool and an indoor ventilated facility.

After reviewing the feedback from the meeting and survey, Belton ISD leadership will make a recommendation to the Board of Trustees, who hold the final authority on whether and when to call a bond election.

The primary sources of funding for Texas public schools are generated by local property taxes and the state’s foundation school program. School districts often rely on bond elections to build new schools, update aging facilities, or ensure the safety of learning environments.

“Safety items are always going to be a top priority,” Deputy Superintendent Mike Morgan said. “And then for us, is making sure we address the needs of our aging facilities and make sure that we have safe schools.”

Belton ISD previously issued voter-approved bonds in 2017 and 2022.

The community can provide feedback via the survey through July 17.

“We have an incredible community, and they always respond when we ask for input,” Golden said. “It makes me proud that our community is so invested in enhancing the learning experiences of our students. They care about our students, want to be informed of the district’s needs, ask thoughtful questions and provide valuable feedback on potential solutions.”

For more information and updates about Belton ISD’s bond exploration process, visit www.bisd.net/ bondadvisorycommittee.