Introduction to the Controversy
Houston Independent School District (HISD) is facing a serious controversy surrounding its $4-billion-dollar bond election from last year. KPRC 2 Investigates recently revealed that at least nine criminal complaints have been filed with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office in connection to the bond election. The complaints stem from allegations of improper use of taxpayer funds to campaign for the bond.
Background of the Allegations
The controversy began when KPRC 2’s Mario Diaz uncovered a key action item buried in HISD’s budget, which allocated $2-million dollars for the cost of "putting the plan together and hiring a consulting group to support" the bond election. Legal experts have taken issue with this action, citing concerns that the district may have engaged in "electioneering," or using public funds to influence the outcome of an election.
Evidence of Electioneering
KPRC 2 Investigates found videos posted on social media by the district that appeared to promote the bond election, with the phrase "RENEW HISD" prominently displayed in capital letters. State Senator Mayes Middleton has called this "electioneering," and the Office of the Attorney General for the State of Texas has also raised concerns about the district’s actions.
Office of the Attorney General’s Involvement
The Office of the Attorney General has issued a 16-page letter to HISD, dated March 12, which suggests that the district may have engaged in electioneering. The letter was sent in response to a request for public information made to the district last fall. On page 10 of the letter, the AG’s office writes, "the district revealed a letter from the office of the attorney general alleging that the district engaged in electioneering and threatening legal action if this is not addressed."
Response from HISD
Despite multiple requests for comment, HISD Superintendent Mike Miles and his communications team have not responded to questions about the allegations. Miles has also refused to sit down for a formal interview to address the concerns. The district’s in-house attorney, Katheryne Ellison, has informed KPRC 2 Investigates that any requests for information must be made through a formal records request.
Investigation and Next Steps
The Harris County District Attorney’s Office has confirmed that at least two criminal complaints have been filed and are being investigated. However, the office has declined to comment further on the investigation, citing a policy of not discussing open investigations. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen what actions will be taken against HISD and its officials.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding HISD’s bond election has raised serious concerns about the use of taxpayer funds and the potential for electioneering. The involvement of the Office of the Attorney General and the Harris County District Attorney’s Office suggests that the allegations are being taken seriously. As the investigation continues, the public will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and what consequences, if any, will be faced by those involved.
