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Heads up, taxpayers and parents: We’ve audited the upcoming ZAPATA COUNTY ISD agenda. There are 4 items targeting parental consent and taxpayer funds that need your immediate attention before the gavel falls.
| ⚠️ Warning (LEVEL 7) |
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Pre-Screening of Public Handouts Restricts Speech
The district’s public comment policy requires citizens to submit any handouts for review and approval by the Superintendent 24 hours in advance. This acts as a form of prior restraint, allowing the administration to censor materials critical of the district before the board or public can see them.
Response
DEMAND A POLICY CHANGE: Contact the ZCISD Board (see the Official Agenda link for contact info) and ask them to revise Board Policy BED. ‘Requiring pre-approval of handouts 24 hours in advance is a form of censorship. The public has a right to present information to the board without prior restraint.’
💰 Impact: Reduced Public Access
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| 🚩Watchlist (LEVEL 6) |
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Undisclosed Contracts Over $25,000
The board plans to approve contracts and purchases over $25,000 under the generic title “OF26-27-02.” Without a list of vendors, amounts, or purposes, the public cannot know if this spending is responsible or if it involves controversial consultants or services.
Response
DEMAND THE DETAILS: The agenda provides no backup for Item G.2. Contact the ZCISD Board and demand that all contracts and purchases over $25,000 be listed individually with vendor names and amounts for public review before any vote.
💰 Impact: Undisclosed Spending
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| 🚩Watchlist (LEVEL 5) |
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Vague Budget Amendment Hides Spending Details
The board is voting on “Budget Amendment BA26-07-01” with no description of what is being changed, how much money is involved, or why it’s needed. This lack of detail prevents public oversight of taxpayer funds.
Response
INVESTIGATE: The agenda provides no details for Item G.1. Contact the ZCISD administration and ask for the backup documentation for Budget Amendment BA26-07-01 to be posted online before the vote.
💰 Impact: Undisclosed
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| 🚩Watchlist (LEVEL 5) |
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Taxpayer Bailout of Student Activity Funds
The board is considering a transfer from the General Operating Fund—primarily funded by property taxes—to “restore” balances in student activity funds. This raises questions about financial management and why taxpayers are being asked to cover these shortfalls.
Response
ASK THE HARD QUESTIONS: Regarding Item G.3, contact the ZCISD Board and ask: ‘Why do the activity funds have a shortfall, how much taxpayer money is being transferred, and what steps are being taken to prevent this from happening again?’
💰 Impact: Taxpayer Funds Used for Non-Essential Activities
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