Every Texan wants a break from high property taxes. That’s not up for debate. But Governor Abbott’s proposal to eliminate school district property taxes entirely isn’t a simple fix; it’s a fundamental change that could shake the foundation of communities like Mansfield.
In Texas, property taxes aren’t just numbers on a bill. They’re how we fund our schools. Teacher salaries, buses, safety officers, extracurricular programs, maintenance, and even classroom materials depend on that revenue. Here in Mansfield ISD, roughly half of every property tax dollar goes straight into supporting our local schools. Without that funding, the quality that attracts families and drives property values will be at serious risk.
Even the Dallas Morning News noted the biggest unanswered question in the governor’s plan:
“Abbott’s plan summary does not go into detail about how schools would be funded if the property tax were eliminated by voters.” Read the full article here: Dallas Morning News — “What to Know About Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s Property Tax Relief Plan” (Nov. 10, 2025)
That missing detail matters. A lot. If voters eliminate school property taxes, who makes up the difference? The state? Sales taxes? Local cuts? None of that is spelled out. What we do know is that communities that underfund education pay for it later in lower test scores, declining home values, and fewer families choosing to move in.
We all want relief, but we can’t confuse short-term savings with long-term security. Healthy schools protect home values, local jobs, and community pride. Any serious tax reform should strengthen our education system, not strip away its foundation.
As Mansfield continues to grow, our schools are what make this community thrive. Let’s make sure that any plan to cut taxes doesn’t end up cutting our future.
Key Facts for Mansfield ISD Homeowners:
Studies show that strong schools can raise local property values by 5–10% and underfunded schools can lower them just as quickly. Mansfield’s steady growth of new neighborhoods, strong home sales, and business investment has been fueled by high-performing public schools.
Bottom line: Tax reform can be smart and fair, but not if it comes at the cost of the very schools that built our community’s success. Stay informed, ask hard questions, and keep Mansfield ISD strong for generations to come.
Please take a few minutes to contact the incumbents and challengers to let them know that fully funding public education is a top priority for the next legislative session.
House District 96
House District 101
House District 58