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- calendar_today November 7, 2026
Owatonna Bond Referendum Fails at the Ballot Box
Voters in Owatonna, Minnesota, have rejected a $65 million capital bond referendum that would have funded the construction of new police and fire stations for the city. The measure, featured on Tuesday’s ballot, was met with significant opposition from the community, with approximately 77 percent voting 'no' to the proposal.
Aging Emergency Services Facilities Spark Debate
The city’s current fire station, constructed 120 years ago, is showing visible signs of disrepair. Additions over the decades have left the building landlocked, making further expansion impossible. Some firefighting vehicles and equipment are now stored at Owatonna’s airport due to space limitations. The police department is housed in a former bank building dating from the 1960s, which officials also regard as inadequate for modern needs.
Community Opposition Focused on Cost, Location, and Process
Local officials argued that repairing or refurbishing the existing buildings would not be financially feasible, prompting the request for the $65 million capital bond. If approved, the bond would have required a property tax increase of about $420 annually for the typical $300,000 home over a 20-year period. However, many residents expressed concern over the cost, proposed locations, and a perceived lack of public input.
Melissa Zimmerman, a leading advocate against the referendum, said the opposition was not about whether Owatonna needed new emergency facilities, but rather about ensuring fiscal responsibility and community involvement. "We were glad that it was a landslide win for us, so that way [the] city council was aware that this many people were opposed to the project price, location and [lack of] public input," Zimmerman said.
Financial Strain and Recent School Funding Weighed Heavily
Zimmerman and other residents highlighted that Owatonna had recently approved a $124 million school, with taxpayers only a few years into repaying that debt. "The city of Owatonna is very tapped out. ... The funding just isn’t there right now," Zimmerman explained, also noting broader economic concerns.
Ongoing Challenges for Police and Fire Services
The failed referendum leaves significant questions for Owatonna’s emergency services. Fire officials report that the current station’s limited space hampers operations, causing delays during emergencies as personnel must retrieve additional vehicles from the airport. Despite the setback, city officials acknowledged the need for improved facilities, with the city’s website stating: "The challenges facing our police and fire stations remain, and responsibility for determining next steps now returns to the City Council. We will share updates as those discussions continue."
Next Steps for Owatonna
With the referendum’s defeat, the issue returns to the Owatonna City Council for further deliberation. City leaders have stated they will keep the public informed as they consider alternative solutions for replacing or upgrading the city’s police and fire facilities.
Source: mprnews.org.
