OWATONNA, Minn. (AP) — School leaders in southeast Minnesota hope voters will approve a $116 million bond referendum this spring to replace the district’s aging high school after donations from three major businesses helped drop the cost by at least $22 million.
The Star Tribune reports that Owatonna Public Schools officials believe the bill could lower even more as other businesses express interest in replacing the nearly 100-year-old building. The project’s initial price tag was $138 million.
READ MORE: 'It’s Just Heartbreaking': Prayer And Grief Highlight Vigil For Eli HartInsurance company Federated Insurance has pledged $20 million, while Wenger Corp. has offered about $2 million in its music, theater and athletic products. Glass manufacturer Viracon has promised to provide all of the glass in the new building for free.
READ MORE: Home Team: The Storied Career Of 82-Year-Old Umpire Bill PetersonThe district won’t know how much Viracon’s donation will save until it finishes the design work.
The referendum will be held May 14.
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