Decorah Voters Approve School District Referendum in High-Turnout Election

DECORAH — On Tuesday, September 10, Decorah residents turned out in record high numbers to vote on two measures related to the future of the Decorah Community School District (DCSD). A total of 2,433 voters cast their ballots, far exceeding turnout from past elections. For reference, the last Special School Election held for Decorah (and North Winn) was the School Consolidation Election in 2018, which saw just under 1,000 voters participate. The numerous Bond Referendums held when Decorah CSD was trying to build a new Middle School garnered 1,500-1,800 voters. The first measure on yesterday's ballot, which sought to renew the district's ability to use funds from the state's Secure an Advanced Vision for Education (SAVE) fund, passed overwhelmingly. Voters approved the measure with 75.48% (1,829) voting "yes" and 24.52% (594) voting "no." The second measure, proposing an increase of $0.86 to the overall tax rate will help finance the new $38 million elementary school, also passed with strong support. This measure received 70.56% (1,678) "yes" votes and 29.44% (700) "no" votes. Voter representation from the Howard-Winneshiek Schools own referendum amounted to 26 voters, with 80.77% voting "yes" (21) and 19.23% (5) voting "no." These results will be combined with totals from Howard County to calculate the grand totals. Voter turnout was so high that the polling site ran out of pre-printed ballots midway through the day. Thanks to quick action from County Auditor Benjamin Steines and Copyland, additional ballots were printed. The remaining votes were hand-counted by a bipartisan team of election officials. Steines reported there were no inconsistencies or irregularities with this process, with the only issue being that results took a little longer to be tabulated "This is one of the highest turnouts we've seen for a local school election in years," said Steines. "We're grateful for the hard work of our election officials in managing the unexpected surge and ensuring the process remained smooth." "We are incredibly grateful for the support that was shown by our residents on election day," said Dr. Tim Cronin, Superintendent. "We have had many great conversations about the future of our schools in recent months, and it is clear that our community cares deeply about education and the students our district serves." With both measures now approved, the community will turn its attention to the November 5 election, where voters will decide on a $38 million general obligation bond to fund the construction of a new elementary school. Become a part of the exclusive circle! Subscribe to the newsletter for free and gain access to special offers, bonus content and insider perks.