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Lumberton ISD Voters Reject Tax Rate Intended for Safety and Teacher Pay
Charles Phillips
news@silsbee-bee.com
The Silsbee Bee
11/05/2026
LUMBERTON, Texas — Preliminary election results indicate that Lumberton Independent School District voters rejected Proposition A, a Voter-Approval Tax Rate Election aimed at addressing the district's growing financial challenges. Local school officials actively pursued the ballot measure to counteract rising operational costs driven by inflation and state education funding that has failed to keep pace with expenses. The measure's failure leaves a budget gap that the district must navigate without the anticipated revenue. If approved, Proposition A would have generated an estimated 2.5 million dollars in additional annual revenue for the maintenance and operations budget. District administrators planned to allocate the new funds toward critical priorities, including enhancing school safety and security measures, offering competitive compensation to recruit and retain high-quality teachers, and preserving educational programs and student opportunities. Following the vote, Superintendent Dr. John Mathews expressed disappointment regarding the outcome but emphasized his respect for the community's democratic decision. Mathews stated that the district's commitment to students, staff, and families remains completely steady. He noted that the school board will continue evaluating alternative financial options moving forward. The board aims to prioritize student success while remaining a responsible steward of public school funding. District officials extended gratitude to community partners, families, local businesses, and individuals who participated in the election process, asked questions, and reviewed the tax rate proposal. Leaders reaffirmed their priority of maintaining a safe, supportive, and high-quality educational environment for all local students.
Halls of Horror supports firefighter with ALS
Braden Reidinger as The Butcher at Silsbee VFD’s Halls of Horror.
Sierra Kondos | The Silsbee Bee
Sierra Kondos reporter@silsbee-bee.com The Silsbee Bee SILSBEE — A brotherhood of firefighters and community supporters has joined forces to help one of their own through a Halloween-themed fundraiser benefiting former firefighter Mike Morrison, who was recently diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The Halls of Horror event, hosted in partnership with Jason Barnes, transformed a firefighter training center into a haunted attraction, with proceeds dedicated to helping Morrison adjust to the challenges of his diagnosis. According to Silsbee Fire Chief Robin Jones, Morrison served approximately 15 years with the department and was known for his dedication to helping others. “He was a real top-notch firefighter,” Jones said. “He also got into the medical side and could help with medical. He is very big-hearted about helping people, no matter what.” Morrison began experiencing medical difficulties approximately two years ago, including frequent falls. This year, he received his ALS diagnosis. He is now confined to a wheelchair, requiring significant modifications to his home to accommodate his changing mobility needs. The department’s firefighters recognized the financial challenges ahead, including home renovations and the purchase of a wheelchair-accessible van, and came together to find a way to help. What began as an idea for a fundraiser evolved into Halls of Horror, with Barnes helping bring the haunted attraction to life. The training center was converted into a haunted house while retaining its purpose as a training facility for firefighters and SWAT teams. In addition to ticket sales, the fundraiser featured a concession stand and T-shirt sales. Every penny raised through this year’s event will go directly toward helping Morrison. Jones said the community’s response has been overwhelming, with residents turning out to support the effort. “We want the community to know how much we appreciate it,” Jones said. “Mike also appreciates it quite a bit. He’s just beside himself. Everybody’s coming together to help raise money for this.” The fundraiser reflects the close-knit brotherhood of first responders and a community determined to support someone who spent years serving others.
