Episode 11 – Understanding the VATRE: What It Means for Hereford ISD

About this episode

This episode discusses the Voter-Approved Tax Rate Election (VATRE) and its implications for Hereford ISD.

On this episode of HISD Unscripted , host Kara Esquivel is joined by Chad Jones (Gallagher Construction), David Faltys (Government Capital Securities), and Robb Sidebottom (Gallagher Construction) to explain the upcoming Voter-Approved Tax Rate Election (VATRE). They break down school finance, tax compression, staff salary challenges, and how Hereford ISD can benefit from this election—without raising taxes for many in our community. Topics covered: What VATRE is and how it supports schools Why your vote matters more than ever Special considerations for seniors and ag-exempt properties How the community can stay informed Be sure to subscribe, share, and stay engaged as we continue to share what’s happening in Hereford ISD. #HISDUnscripted #VATRE #SchoolFinance #HerefordISD #EducationMatters

People in this episode

Host: Kara Esquivel

Guests: Chad Jones, David Faltys, Robb Sidebottom

Topics covered

• What VATRE is and how it supports schools
• Why your vote matters more than ever
• Special considerations for seniors and ag-exempt properties
• How the community can stay informed

Keywords

• VATRE
• School Finance
• Hereford ISD
• Education Matters

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Understanding the VATRE: What It Means for

Places: Hereford ISD

More episodes of HISD Unscripted

• HISD Unscripted | Ep. 19 - “Inside Curriculum: Growth, Accountability, and the Work Behind Student Success” · March 25, 2026 · 39 min
• HISD Unscripted | Ep. 18 - “High School Facilities Talk: VATRE Update, Bond Facts, and What’s Being Discussed” · February 12, 2026 · 38 min
• HISD Unscripted | Ep. 17 - “New High School Conversations: Facts, Options, and What’s Next” · January 12, 2026 · 26 min
• HISD Unscripted | Ep. 16 – "Grant Services: Counseling, Prevention, and Parent Support" · December 2, 2025 · 15 min
• HISD Unscripted | Ep. 15 – "After the VATRE: What’s Next for HISD?" · November 13, 2025 · 24 min
• HISD Unscripted | Ep. 14 – Understanding VATRE Priorities and Community Questions · October 10, 2025 · 29 min