The votes, which had to be hand-counted, were tallied by 8:40p.m. Tuesday in the Ellis County courthouse.

The $10 million bond issue for USD 388/Ellis has been soundly defeated:

YES 275

NO  424

All but one precinct in Ellis and the three in Trego County which are part of USD 388, voted against the measure.

There were 701 votes cast: 59% opposed, 41% in favor.

The bond issue would have been used for new athletic facilities, major repairs at Washington Grade School and a new Junior High wing at Ellis High School.

The results are unofficial until canvassed Monday by Ellis County Commissioners.