(MSC News)--Voters in two area northeast Kansas school districts delivered sharply different decisions in special elections Tuesday, weighing in on millions of dollars in proposed facility upgrades.
In Jefferson West USD 340, residents rejected a $17.5 million bond issue aimed at improving district facilities. Unofficial results show the proposal failed by a 559-vote margin, with 899 votes cast against it and 340 in favor. The Jefferson County Clerk’s Office reported a 34 percent voter turnout.
The bond would have funded classroom additions, safety and security upgrades, HVAC and electrical improvements, and construction of a new track.
Meanwhile, voters in Onaga USD 322 approved two bond measures totaling $12 million for facility improvements.
The first measure, authorizing up to $10 million, passed 562 to 174. It will fund construction of a new elementary wing, renovation of the multi-purpose room, and plumbing and restroom upgrades at the middle and high schools.
A second $2 million proposal passed 541 to 181. Planned projects include HVAC upgrades at the middle school and north gym, high school window replacements, new roofs for the middle school and commons area, and minor locker room improvements.
The Pottawatomie County Clerk’s Office reported a 52 percent turnout. Results will remain unofficial until they are canvassed March 9 by the Pottawatomie County Commission.
