Introduction to the Controversy
Houston Independent School District (HISD) is facing allegations of potential electioneering during last year’s controversial bond election. In early February, KPRC 2 Investigates exposed the issue, and now more parents are coming forward, filing criminal complaints with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.
Parents Taking Action
Parents like Marcie Jones and Heather Golden have taken the initiative to file complaints. Jones stated, "I think what the district did—what Mike Miles did—is wrong, and he should be held accountable for that." Golden, who also filed a complaint, found herself going through the formal process for the first time. Nine parents have been identified as going through this process, compiling sworn complaints and submitting them to the DA’s office with the intent of launching an investigation into HISD.
Evidence of Electioneering
The parents are providing evidence, including links and screenshots, tied to the rollout of HISD’s massive $4-billion-dollar bond that was voted down last November. KPRC 2 Investigates uncovered a key action item in HISD’s budget, where the district allocated $2 million for what they said was the cost "related to putting the plan together and hiring a consulting group to support." Legal experts have taken issue with this action, citing the use of the word "support" as a big problem.
Legal Concerns
Former U.S. Attorney Ryan Patrick noted, "That support word, that’s a big problem." State Senator Mayes Middleton called the district’s actions "electioneering," stating, "It seems pretty clear to me that they were advocating for the bond." The Texas Election Code prohibits advocating for or against a political measure using taxpayer dollars, with offenders facing a misdemeanor charge punishable by up to a year in jail and/or a $4,000 fine.
Investigation and Accountability
Weeks after District Attorney Sean Teare clarified that his office requires an affidavit by the individual making a complaint, parents began compiling their complaints and securing a notary to make their submission official. Parents are now leaning on Teare and his team for accountability. Jones expressed, "I think it was a lot of work to do this. I think it’s maybe a little bit too much work that people have to kind of jump through hoops, but now that I have done it, I feel glad, I feel hopeful that there might be a resolution from it."
District Attorney’s Office Response
The Harris County District Attorney’s Office confirmed receiving at least two affidavits from citizens alleging criminal conduct in connection with an election. A spokesperson stated, "By law, we are required to investigate these complaints. We do not discuss details about open investigations." HISD has yet to respond to requests for comment on the complaints.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding HISD’s alleged electioneering during the bond election has sparked a wave of complaints from parents. As the investigation unfolds, these parents are seeking accountability and hoping for a resolution. The outcome of this investigation will be crucial in determining whether HISD’s actions were indeed in violation of the Texas Election Code. With the DA’s office now involved, the community awaits the results, hoping for transparency and justice in the matter.
