Surrey school faces post-election decisions

The fate of Surrey Public School facilities hangs in the balance following a razor-thin election defeat, leaving the school board grappling with difficult decisions and prompting questions about the integrity of the voting process. Preliminary results from the November 3rd election showed a $5.8 million bond issue, intended to address critical infrastructure needs, fell short by a mere five votes – a margin that has ignited concerns about a significant error in ballot distribution impacting residents of McHenry County. This situation underscores the importance of robust election procedures and the potential consequences when those procedures falter, particularly in rural communities where every vote carries considerable weight.

The Failed Bond Issue and Its Implications

The Surrey Public School District proposed a 20-year, $5.8 million bond issue aimed at addressing several pressing building challenges. Portable classrooms installed in 2012 are nearing the end of their useful lifespan, and a 2024 inspection by the State Fire Marshal revealed safety issues with the connection between the main school building and these portable units. Additionally, portions of the main building suffer from outdated windows, flooring, fixtures, and ceilings – many of which haven't been updated in decades. Structural concerns regarding the roof's ability to withstand heavy snow loads further compounded the need for improvements. Safety deficiencies were also identified, including stairs not meeting commercial building code requirements, inadequate guardrails and open risers, and wheelchair ramp slopes exceeding accessibility limits. The initial attempt to pass the bond issue in June also failed, leading to this second vote on November 3rd, where it ultimately lost 465-317, falling short of the required 60% threshold (470 votes).

The close margin and subsequent discovery of a significant error in ballot distribution have thrown the election results into question. Secretary of State Michael Howe, in a letter to the school board and administration, mentioned the option for the Surrey School District to contest the election through the court system. Superintendent Steven Bucks said the school board could discuss the option at its regular meeting on Thursday, Nov. 12, but no action would be taken until canvassing is completed.

Superintendent Steven Bucks addressed the community via the school's website, stating, “Our administrative team has been preparing for either outcome of this election.” He assured residents that the district is developing a plan to accommodate students and classrooms within the main school building and will present it to the School Board for review. Bucks also emphasized that the school is committed to educating and supporting students, prioritizing safe learning spaces while minimizing disruption. North Dakota State Government plays a vital role in ensuring fair and accessible elections across the state.

The Ballot Distribution Error and its Aftermath

A review by North Dakota Secretary of State Michael Howe, conducted in conjunction with the McHenry County Auditor's Office, revealed that eight street segments had improperly coded addresses, preventing 13 households – encompassing 29 eligible voters – from receiving a ballot containing the bond issue question. Twelve of those 29 voters participated in the general election and received an incorrect ballot. Howe acknowledged the potential impact of this error, stating it is “speculative” how those 12 voters would have cast their ballots had they received the correct one. He expressed deep regret for the oversight, stating, “I apologize with all my heart” for the mistake that prevented some voters from participating in the decision. Howe’s office has pledged to implement new software using GIS map modeling for future elections to prevent similar errors. McHenry County officials have also confirmed the correction of the street segment coding errors.

Secretary of State's Response and Future Prevention

Secretary of State Howe attributed the error to a lack of due diligence by a member of his team in 2026 when working with McHenry County to make corrections to new street segments. He stated that the new GIS mapping software, approved by the Legislature and slated for implementation in 2028, will alleviate the manual input process for street segments and address coding. “This review leaves me incredibly frustrated, and I am terribly sorry that the impact this mistake may have on the Surrey School District, the town of Surrey, and neighboring communities and businesses,” Howe wrote. The incident underscores the importance of constant vigilance and improved processes in election administration.

Community Reaction and Concerns

The news of the failed bond issue and the ballot distribution error has sparked a range of reactions from the Velva community. Some residents are calling for a re-vote, while others are urging the school board to explore alternative funding sources, such as grants or partnerships with local businesses.

What’s Next for Surrey Public Schools

The Surrey School Board is scheduled to discuss the possibility of challenging the election results at its regular meeting on Thursday, November 12th. However, no formal action will be taken until the Ward and McHenry county canvassing boards meet on Monday, November 16th, and the state canvassing board releases official election results on November 18th. Regardless of the outcome, Superintendent Bucks emphasized that the district is committed to finding a solution that best serves the students and the community. North Dakota Courts will play a crucial role if the school district decides to pursue legal action.

James’s Perspective: A Cautionary Tale

The situation unfolding in Surrey is a stark reminder of the fragility of our democratic processes and the importance of meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of civic life. While the error in ballot distribution appears to be an isolated incident, it highlights the potential for even small mistakes to have significant consequences, especially in smaller, rural communities where voter turnout can be tight. The fact that five votes separated the passage or failure of this crucial bond issue underscores the importance of every individual’s participation in the democratic process – and the need to ensure that everyone has a fair opportunity to exercise that right.

Beyond the immediate legal and logistical challenges facing the school district, this situation serves as a broader cautionary tale about the importance of strong families and stable communities. Schools are not merely buildings; they are anchors of our communities, vital for the education and development of our children, and often serve as centers of social connection for families. When schools face financial hardship or infrastructure deficiencies, the entire community suffers. It’s a testament to the dedication of the school board, administration, and teachers that they remain committed to providing a quality education despite these challenges.

Looking ahead, it’s crucial that the state and local officials learn from this experience and implement safeguards to prevent similar errors in future elections. The implementation of GIS mapping software is a positive step, but ongoing vigilance and rigorous quality control measures are essential. Moreover, it’s important for residents to remain engaged in the civic process, attending school board meetings, voicing their concerns, and supporting initiatives that strengthen our schools and communities. The future of Surrey’s children – and the vitality of its community – depends on it. North Dakota State University can contribute to the solution with research on election integrity.

Resources for the Community

For residents seeking more information about the Surrey School District and its facilities, the following resources are available: Surrey Public School District Website; McHenry County Government Website; North Dakota State Government Website; and North Dakota Courts Website. The North Dakota Chamber of Commerce also provides resources for businesses and communities in the state.

Furthermore, families facing challenges related to school facilities or election integrity can reach out to their elected officials and advocate for solutions that support student safety and ensure fair democratic processes. The importance of a strong family unit cannot be overstated, as it provides a foundation of stability and support for children navigating these complex situations. The North Dakota Department of Human Resources offers various support services for families. The City of Velva stands as a testament to the strength of small-town values and community spirit.

As the Surrey School District navigates this challenging period, the community’s resilience and commitment to its children will be essential in ensuring a bright future for all. The enduring values of faith, family, and hard work—cornerstones of the American dream—will undoubtedly guide the district and its residents as they move forward.