Lamar CISD approves balanced budget, employee compensation plan for 2026-27 school year

Lamar CISD approved a balanced $572.2 million budget for 2026-27 and a 3% pay raise for all employees. The unanimous June 9 vote set expenditures and revenue at $572.2 million. Payroll is projected at just over $487 million. The debt service fund balance stands at $142.3 million and will be directed toward paying more than $100 million in debt in August. The board also reviewed two tax-rate options: $1.1351 and $1.1451 per $100 valuation, with the administration recommending $1.1451 to speed debt payoff while reducing taxes for residents. A public hearing is planned before the August vote.