Election results for a massive $569 million school bond for the Midland Independent School District showed a divided community on the issue, with the final unofficial results showing a 12-vote lead in favor of the ballot measure.
The bond proposal, which sought to build new high schools and provide facility upgrades, saw increasing controversy and division over several issues. The “We Choose Our Future” political action committee (PAC), which was formed to support the bond proposal, outraised the opposition with a staggering $231,000 in contributions.
MISD itself spent thousands on mailers and flyers used to promote the bond; in fact, opponents complained, saying it was borderline electioneering. In spite of the opposition PAC, “A Better Bond for Midland,” being overwhelmingly outspent, it was clear that Midland voters were heavily divided over the issue, with the results maintaining a narrow margin throughout the evening.
The final unofficial results showed 11,560 votes for the bond and 11,548 votes against, with military and absentee votes still pending.
Texas Scorecard spoke briefly with opponents of the bond who confirmed they have notified MISD officials that they are actively working to ensure a recount of the election is triggered.
With the results being so close, this election certainly shows that every vote truly does matter.
