Windom residents turned out in strong numbers Tuesday to vote on a $27.5 million bond referendum proposed by the Windom School District — but the measure was ultimately defeated at the polls. The referendum was aimed at funding significant improvements to fine arts and athletic facilities within the district. Despite a steady stream of voter turnout, the proposal did not secure the support it needed to pass. According to Superintendent Jamie Frank after the polls closed and a count was conducted, “The unofficial results were posted for The Arts and Athletics Facilities Improvement Vote with 810-yes and 856 – no votes” A press release from the Windom Area School District stated “Voters in the Windom Area School District have voted against the Facilities Improvement Plan. As a result, the district will not proceed with the proposed fine arts and athletic projects at Windom Area High School. According to unofficial election results, Votes supporting the measure were 810, while 856 voted against it. While the bond funding did not pass, the district remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing critical facilities needs moving forward. Growing demand for arts and athletic programs as well as safety concerns and limitations with current spaces continue to be top priorities. “While the referendum did not pass, our needs remain,” said Superintendent Jamie Frank. “We are grateful for the community’s engagement, and we will continue to work together to find solutions that meet the needs of our students.” The district will begin evaluating next steps and exploring alternative approaches to address these critical facility challenges. Updates will be provided to the community as discussions progress. For more information, please visit the Windom Area School District’s website.”
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Fulda Public School, District No. 505 held a special election on Tuesday for a proposed referendum of a 35.3 million bond issue to fund the conversion of the existing high school into a single PreK-12 campus. The plan included decommissioning the elementary school, upgrading HVAC systems, installing secure entrances, replacing roofs and constructing a track and athletic field. According to the Fulda Public School Website, there were 801 votes cast in the May 13th Bond Referendum. 402 Yes 399 No The referendum passed
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Windom Police Department reported on the 12th, an officer was dispatched to the 1200 Block of Collins Avenue, for a possible Protection Order Violation. It was reported that a male and female were together in his backyard but the female has a protection order against the male which was confirmed. After investigation, an arrest was made of a 75-year-old Windom male for Harassment Restraining Order Violation. This case is under review by the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
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Windom Area Health announced they are nearing completion of the new Medical Building. With the final touches being made there is a need to temporarily reroute the Emergency Room (ER ) entrance to resurface the parking lot. Monday May 19th crews will begin the process, and it is expected to be completed by the end of day on Friday May 23rd. There will be signage along the route to direct the public to the temporary ER entrance. You see the green highlighted route for Windom Area Health’s campus below. The red arrows indicate the direction to the temporary ER entrance.
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