Crookston school referendum narrowly fails

Aug. 10—CROOKSTON — In a tight race, it seems Crookston voters rejected a Crookston Public Schools referendum for a multi-sport athletic complex on Tuesday, Aug. 9.

According to early and unofficial results, with all precincts reporting, it appears the $3.9 million referendum failed with 49.73% yes votes. A total of 1,675 ballots were cast in the special election. As of the results around 11 p.m. Tuesday, just nine votes sunk the referendum, 842-833.

The $3.9 million bond issue would have paid for a new facility to host football, track, soccer and softball practices and games, baseball practices and physical education classes. Planned for district land to the northeast of Crookston High School, the facility would include an artificial turf field, eight-lane track, press box, seating for 750 people, a concession stand and bathrooms.

The school district currently uses Ed Widseth Field at the University of Minnesota Crookston for home track meets and football games, but in recent years, the facility has started to deteriorate. State funding for repairs is not available for facilities owned by entities outside of school districts, like Ed Widseth Field.