Updated: $35.89 million bond issue fails

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Last Updated on Wednesday, 14 September 2011 15:02

Published on Tuesday, 13 September 2011 19:30

Voters reject proposal that would have raised property taxes to pay for new grade school center

Dale Denwalt
Daily Elk Citian

By a resounding majority, voters in Elk City yesterday rejected a $35.89 million bond that would have gone toward building a new grade school center for pre-kindergarten through third grade.

With 1,697 votes cast, only 527 - 31 percent - voted for the bond. For it to have passed with the required 60 percent, the bond needed 1,019 of the votes cast. The vote totals are unofficial and will be certified after 5 p.m. 

Shawn Wilson, Elk City Public Schools president, said he is disappointed, but not disheartened by the outcome.

"For the 527 people that understood the need of our students and voted yes, I can't tell you how much I/we appreciate it!" he wrote in a prepared statement Tuesday night. "And to all who gave of their time and resources for the cause, Bravo!"

He said that the issue would continue to be a priority for the board.

"When I was elected to this office I took an oath stating I would uphold the laws and provide the best education and facilities within the school boards power. I can assure you we will continue to seek ways to do so. This no vote hasn't broken my spirit - it has straightened my resolve!" he wrote.

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