Voters Reject $24M Bond Measure for Rushford-Peterson Schools

Proposed upgrades to facilities, classrooms, and athletic fields fail to gain voter approval.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Voters in Rushford, Minnesota have rejected a $24 million bond measure that would have funded various improvements and additions to the Rushford-Peterson Public Schools district. The referendum, held on February 10, 2026, saw 744 votes against the measure compared to 444 votes in favor.

Why it matters

The failed bond measure means the school district will not be able to move forward with planned upgrades to its facilities, including new classrooms, early childhood spaces, additional gymnasium space, and improvements to athletic fields. This could impact the quality of education and extracurricular offerings for students in the district.

The details

The proposed $24 million bond would have funded several key projects for the Rushford-Peterson school district, including new day care and early childhood rooms, additional gymnasium space, new high school and elementary classrooms, flexible learning spaces, and a required storm shelter. It would have also provided funding for concessions, bathrooms, and safety fencing at the athletic fields.

  • The referendum vote was held on February 10, 2026.

The players

Rushford-Peterson Public Schools

The public school district serving the Rushford, Minnesota area.

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The takeaway

The failed bond measure is a setback for the Rushford-Peterson school district, which will now have to reconsider how to fund necessary upgrades and improvements to its aging facilities and infrastructure. This vote highlights the challenges school districts can face in securing voter approval for major capital projects, even when the needs are clear.