SEDGWICK COUNTY —Voters rejected school bond issues across Kansas on Tuesday. The Sedgwick County Election Commissioner reported the $73,900,000 school bond issue in USD 262 Valley Center did not pass.
The unofficial count reported 2,159 voted against the bond and 1,983 district patrons voted in favor of the bond issue.
According to a statement on the Valley Center School district web site, "Those who live in the communities we serve have decided that now is not the time to move forward with additional classroom space and accommodations for every student."
"While the bond did not pass, the needs remain. Because several USD 262 schools are at or over capacity with students and our district continues to grow, classroom space will have to be addressed."
Oberlin USD 294 voters said no to a $29 million bond issue for significant upgrades at the elementary and high school 621-362, according to the county election office.
USD 214 Ulysses voters rejected a $44.75 million project to build a new middle school wing at Ulysses High School, transition it to a 7-12 grade campus. It also included new science labs and weight room; upgrades to all classrooms; and expanded shop areas, kitchen, and music rooms.
The project also addressed ADA and safety concerns and mechanical system upgrades district-wide. The elementary buildings will also see renovations to classrooms, hallways, improved security and student safety. The unofficial vote count 929-241.
Voters in USD 210 Hugoton overwhelmingly voted down a $36 million bond issue for safety improvements and classroom renovations 893-244.