McCook Voters Reject $42 Million School Bond

August 13, 2025

McCOOK Neb. — Voters have rejected a proposed $42 million bond to build a new junior high school and fund other facility improvements, with the measure failing by a wide margin in Tuesday’s special election.

The final tally from the Red Willow County Clerk’s Office was 1,124 “yes” votes to 1,929 “no” votes, out of 3,053 ballots cast. That breaks down to roughly 37 percent in favor and 63 percent opposed.

Ballots for the all-mail election were verified against the registered voter roster before being opened and tabulated by machine. By law, the envelopes will be retained for 22 months.

The proposal would have authorized McCook Public Schools to issue up to $42 million in general obligation bonds to construct a new junior high school and address various facility needs. Supporters argued the project would modernize learning spaces and address long-term infrastructure concerns, while opponents voiced concerns about the cost and potential tax increases.

With the bond’s defeat, district leaders will now need to determine next steps for meeting facility needs.