A $3.6 million bond issue failed to pass in Pocola, Okla. Tuesday. The proposition would’ve been used to pay for school equipment, safety upgrades, and renovations.
The majority of Pocola voters supported the issue, 332 to 300, or 52.5 percent to 47.5 percent. However, a super-majority of 60 percent was needed to pass the bond.
School superintendent Monty Guthrie says the district has three options, do nothing, bring the option back to voters as it is, or modify the proposal and present that bond issue to voters.
“We’re not going to make those decisions right now,” he said. “We’re going to take some time, let the emotional part of it subside. Then we will make decisions as a district as the the best approach for the future of our schools.”
The city was planning to pay for the bond through a 14.5 percent property tax increase. It would’ve cost residents approximately $8 more per month on property taxes.
Guthrie says tough economic times and a recent increase in social security payroll with holdings have have caused some to vote against the issue.
The Poteau Police Chief’s job is safe after weathering a challenge from James Jim Craig, an investigator for the LeFlore County District Attorney’s Office. Chief Stephen Fruen defeated Craig, 771 to 477, or 61.8 percent to 38.2 percent.
For a full list of election results in LeFlore County and across Oklahoma, click here.
