WILLISTON – The Williston Basin School District #7 has announced the successful passage of a $35 million school bond referendum after a vote held on Wednesday.

The referendum passed with 66% support from voters, which surpassed the 60% majority required.

“Today is a great day for public education in Williston and a huge win for our students, teachers, and community. The public’s investment in this new elementary school has set the school district up to handle growth and make our elementary schools K-5 again,” Board President Kyle Renner said.

The unofficial tally was 2,379 yes votes were cast in favor while only 1,228 voted no.

The canvassing of the election to verify and finalize the official results is scheduled for Tuesday, April 30, at 5:00 p.m., in the District Office board room.

The proposed $35 million bond aims to provide funding for the construction and equipping of one new elementary school, the purchase of land for the new school and improvements to existing school facilities. The chosen site for the new elementary school is in Williston Square.

“I am extremely grateful to the Williston Community for supporting the WBSD7 bond referendum. We pledge to continue our record of transparency and good stewardship of the Williston community bond funds with an on-time, on-budget construction of a new elementary school,” Superintendent Richard Faidley said.