Lone Star College Approves Lower Tax Rate for 2025–26, Offering Relief to Westgate Homeowners
Lone Star College System (LSCS), the largest institution of higher education in the Greater Houston area, has officially approved a new, lower property tax rate for the 2025–2026 fiscal year—offering a modest but meaningful financial reprieve for taxpayers across Westgate and surrounding areas.
At their Oct. 2 board meeting, the LSCS Board of Trustees voted unanimously to reduce the total tax rate from $0.1076 to $0.1060 per $100 of assessed home value. This change represents the lowest rate the college has adopted in over a decade and reflects the institution’s ongoing commitment to balancing educational excellence with fiscal responsibility.
For Westgate homeowners, the impact is clear. A resident with a home valued at $300,000 will now owe $318 in LSCS property taxes, down from $322 last year. And while the annual savings may seem small, college leaders say the long-term benefits—both financial and educational—are significant.
“Lone Star College System recognizes the significant balance of meeting individuals’ educational needs while maintaining fiscal responsibility,” said Kristy Vienne, Ed.D., Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration/Chief Financial Officer. “The college system’s lower rate will relieve the tax burden on the community, build public support, save significant interest over time, and still allow for operational growth.”
Preserving Access, Reducing Debt
The newly approved tax rate includes a Maintenance and Operations (M&O) rate of $0.0785 and a Debt Service (I&S) rate of $0.0275. The Board also emphasized that LSCS remains among the most affordable community college systems in Texas, with the statewide average tax rate among community colleges currently at $0.1606.
“By lowering the tax rate and maintaining high-quality academic programs, we’re ensuring a strong and sustainable future for Lone Star College System and the communities it serves,” said Mike Sullivan, LSCS board chair.
The fiscal strategy also includes early debt repayment: LSCS is on track to pay off $30 million in debt ahead of schedule, which Vienne says will save local taxpayers millions in future interest costs.
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Investing in Local Futures
Lone Star College serves over 90,000 students every semester, offering both academic transfer programs and career-focused workforce training. With eight colleges, seven learning centers, and a network of Workforce Centers of Excellence, LSCS plays a vital role in shaping the economic and educational landscape of communities like Westgate.
Chancellor Mario K. Castillo, J.D., continues to lead the college through rapid regional growth, and the system has once again earned recognition as one of the Chronicle of Higher Education’s “Great Colleges to Work For” in 2025.
“Adopting a lower tax rate allows the college system to expend financial resources to provide transformational educational opportunities, while paying down $30 million in debt early, saving taxpayers millions in interest,” Vienne added.
Exemptions for Homeowners
LSCS also offers generous tax exemptions for eligible residents:
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A standard exemption of $5,000 or 8% of market value, whichever is greater
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An additional $75,000 exemption for residents 65 and older or those with disabilities
Property taxes for LSCS are collected through the Harris County and Montgomery County Tax Offices. Homeowners with questions about their assessments are encouraged to contact their local office directly.
Looking Ahead
The Lone Star College System Board of Trustees meets monthly, typically on the first Thursday. Westgate residents interested in staying informed on future decisions can learn more at LoneStar.edu/Trustees.
As local families continue to navigate rising costs in housing, healthcare, and everyday expenses, many in Westgate may find a bit of relief in knowing their local college is doing its part to stretch every tax dollar while investing in the next generation.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
