Voters in three southern Minnesota school districts weighed school funding proposals Tuesday, with Nicollet and Madelia securing approval for major investments while Sibley East’s operating levy failed.

In Nicollet, voters passed both referendum questions. An operating levy increase of $1,014.76 per pupil for five years received nearly 69% support, while a $7.6 million building bond earned 63% approval, according to unofficial results.

The levy will help maintain elementary class sizes of 15 to 20 students despite declining enrollment. The bond will fund secure entrance upgrades, career and technical education expansion, agricultural department improvements and deferred maintenance. Some work could begin as early as February, with major construction planned for summer.

For a $289,000 home, the combined measures will increase annual property taxes by about $400. Farmland will see reduced impact due to a 70% state tax credit.

Madelia voters also approved both ballot questions, authorizing up to $30.5 million in facility improvements. A $22.5 million bond for infrastructure repairs passed with 69.19% support (494 yes, 220 no). A contingent $8 million bond for a new gymnasium and training space received 59.74% approval (420 yes, 283 no). A total of 714 voters participated.

The funding will address failing roofs, HVAC systems and other infrastructure. For a $200,000 home, the combined measures will increase property taxes by about $312 annually.

Sibley East voters rejected a proposed $650-per-pupil operating levy for 10 years. Unofficial results showed 558 yes votes (39.66%) and 849 no votes (60.34%) across three precincts.

Superintendent Lonnie Seifert said the district will continue providing the best possible education with available resources and will face difficult budget decisions.

All three districts cited aging facilities, declining enrollment and the need for secure learning environments. Each held public meetings to explain financial needs and answer voter questions.

Results remain unofficial until canvassed by each district’s school board.