Houston ISD Names Bond Oversight Committee Ahead of November Vote

 

HOUSTON, Texas – The Houston Independent School District (HISD) has announced the formation of a Bond Oversight Committee tasked with overseeing a proposed $4.4 billion school board bond, pending voter approval in the upcoming November election. The announcement, made during a lengthy school board meeting that lasted over seven hours, revealed the 13 members appointed by state-appointed superintendent Mike Miles.

The committee will remain in place for the duration of the bond's execution and completion. Members who wish to step down from their roles are required to submit a written notice to the superintendent. All committee meetings will be open to the public, promoting transparency in the oversight process.

The diverse group of committee members includes parents, business representatives, and professionals with expertise in construction and building design. The appointed members are as follows:

• Andy Canales: Principal and Operating Partner at Broadtree Partners, and the Founding Executive Director of Latinos for Education. He is committed to supporting Latino students' access to quality education.

• Andy Chan: Former Mayor of Southside Place and Houston's first Asian American Mayor, who has actively advocated for transparency in public funds.

• Bob Eury: Retired president of Central Houston, Inc., with extensive experience in urban development and environmental design.

• Chris Brown: Former Houston City Controller, known for significant pension reforms and oversight of bonds totaling $4 billion.

• Christopher Cola: CPA and former CFO/COO, bringing financial expertise to ensure bond compliance.

• Daria Wenas: Managing Director at Ernst & Young LLP, focused on financial modeling and due diligence.

• Felix Chevalier: Attorney specializing in government and corporate law, with a commitment to effective use of taxpayer dollars.

• Lauren Haller Fontaine: Senior Director at Pattern Energy, dedicated to sustainable fiscal practices.

• Marcos Rosales: Trial lawyer with business and construction experience.

• Mark Mallette: Retired COO of Freeport LNG, experienced in managing large-scale projects.

• Michael Davis: Founder of Brooks & Davis Real Estate Firm and a former Bond Oversight Committee member.

• Taylor Chapman: Investment Principal at New Climate Ventures, passionate about education and strategic decision-making.

• Wendell Robbins III: President of W.A. Robbins Construction Co., bringing extensive construction expertise.

• Jarred Morgan (Alternate): Principal Consultant at AG Consulting Partners with a background in change management.

• Karen Duffy (Alternate): Community volunteer and active member of the HISD District Advisory Committee, focused on transparency and effective oversight.

As the November election approaches, the HISD is positioning itself to ensure responsible management of the proposed bond funds, with the newly formed committee playing a crucial role in this process.