On December 9, 2025, Tri County voters will decide on an updated facilities proposal.
The Board carefully considered survey results, staff feedback, and community input to shape this new plan.
WHY THIS BOND MATTERS
Expanded Career & Technical Education (CTE) Spaces
Strong community support for major CTE upgrades allowed us not to change the scope of that part of the project.
Additions more than double total CTE space with new Precision Ag, Automotive, and Wood Shops, a maker space/entrepreneurial workshop, and a new Art classroom.
Revitalization of the former FCS (Family & Consumer Science) classroom allows for a full FCS program.
Safety and Learning Environment Improvements
Main visitor entrances redesigned so guests must check in face-to-face with office staff.
Elementary classrooms will receive permanent soundproof walls and doors to reduce noise and disruptions.
Facility Additions and Program Growth
Two new preschool classrooms will allow for expanded early education enrollment.
A new primary competition gym will be built while keeping the existing gym, adding seating, ADA access, and improved functionality for classes and activities.
Updated entrances, locker rooms, weight room, and commons enhance access and usability.
Auditorium, Music, and Site Upgrades
New auditorium construction was removed; existing auditorium will be remodeled with new and additional seating space and reconfigured layout.
Music classrooms will be revitalized in their current locations.
Parking and accessibility improvements include a new gravel lot, ADA walkways, and better site connectivity.
Project Cost Breakdown
Renovations (38,132 SF) | $8,475,000 |
Additions (41,985 SF) | $17,117,000 |
| $5,154,000 |
| $5,786,000 |
| $3,889,000 |
| $2,288,000 |
Site Improvements | $1,403,000 |
TOTAL | $26,995,000 |
Join us for Informational Meetings
October 30th
7:00 pm - DeWitt Community Center
November 3rd
7:00 pm - Swanton Legion
November 6th
7:00 pm - Plymouth Community Center
November 10th
7:00 pm - Tri County School Auditorium
November 13th
7:00 pm - Western Firehall
VOTING INFORMATION
Are You Registered to Vote?
You can register at your county clerk or election office in your county of residence OR Online at – www.ne.gov/go/NEreg2vote
Important Registration Deadlines
Online registration must be completed by November 21st
In-Person Voter registration must be completed by December 1st
MAIL-IN ELECTION
This election will be a mail-in election. Ballots will be mailed to registered voters between November 17-26th.
You can return your completed ballots by mail, drop box, or in-person delivery to your County Election Commissioner before 5:00pm on Tuesday, December 9th
Please remember:
Ballots are county specific. Ballots will be mailed out from and have to be received back to each respective county in which the voter resides.
A first class stamp is required to return the ballot
MAKE YOUR VOTE COUNT
ENSURE YOU’RE REGISTERED TO VOTE
BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR YOUR BALLOT
FILL OUT YOUR BALLOT COMPLETELY, FOLLOW THE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS
Mark your ballot > write driver’s license # > sign and date envelope > seal
RETURN YOUR BALLOT
IF RETURNING BY MAIL, DO SO IMMEDIATELY UPON RECEIPT
DROP BOX OR IN PERSON DELIVERY: RETURN TO THE COUNTY WHERE YOU RESIDE BEFORE DEC 9th!
Drop Box Locations
Jefferson
411 4th Street
Fairbury, NE 68352
Saline County
204 South High Street
Wilber, NE 68465
Gage County
612 Grant Street
Beatrice, NE 68310
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The revised $26.9 million plan reduces both total cost and tax impact from the May proposal. Using the same funding structure, the updated financing shortens the term to 20 years and lowers the estimated tax levy increase from 12 cents to 8.7 cents. The plan maximizes use of lease-purchase financing, with about 30% of those taxes offset by the Nebraska Property Tax Credit—providing savings for local taxpayers.
HOW DID WE GET HERE?
Gathering Input from Staff and Community
Teachers and staff were engaged early to refine the proposal and build support. To collect community feedback on the May facilities proposal, a survey was mailed to patrons and shared online, remaining open for several weeks. Responses were evenly distributed across the district’s three counties, with 62% noting project cost was not a deciding factor—signaling opportunities to improve the plan. Using this feedback, the Board developed a new proposal more aligned with voter priorities.
Recognizing the importance of staff input, the Board held two work sessions with all school employees to discuss the revised plan. Staff shared ideas, asked questions, and learned about construction timelines and classroom impacts. Their feedback helped shape a proposal that balances educational needs with construction logistics.