Rapid City Area Schools (RCAS) announced it is working closely with the Pennington County Auditor’s Office after receiving reports that some voters may have been handed the wrong ballot during the November 3 election. The issue involves precincts that span both the school district and neighboring districts, raising questions about whether the ballot‑distribution error could affect the outcome of the $107 million school bond measure that passed.

What officials are doing

RCAS issued a statement saying the district is gathering accurate information before drawing any conclusions. “We recognize the importance of this matter and are working to gather accurate information before drawing any conclusions,” the district said. Both the school district and the auditor’s office are reviewing the reports to determine how many ballots may have been impacted and what steps are needed to address any discrepancies.

Community concerns

Andy Pattantyus, chair of Taxpayers for Sensible School Bonds, said members of his committee have heard from voters who believe they received the wrong ballot. Some voters reported that the bond question was missing when it should have appeared, while others said the question appeared on a ballot that should not have included it. “From the perspective of our committee, we think it might affect the margin, but not necessarily the outcome,” Pattantyus said.

Bond opposition and oversight

Pattantyus opposed the bond, citing concerns about accountability for spending and how the debt would be repaid. He expressed interest in serving on a citizen oversight committee to ensure that the money is used as promised. “What we want is for the taxpayers to know that the money was spent the way the school district declared that it would be spent,” he said. “In other words, are we getting what we paid for?”

Potential impact on the bond result

Officials have not yet disclosed how many ballots may have been affected or whether the reports could change the final result of the bond measure. The bond passed in the election, but the district and auditor’s office will continue to investigate and will share additional information as it becomes available.

Next steps

RCAS emphasized that it will provide updates as the investigation progresses. The district’s priority is to ensure the integrity of the election process and to maintain public confidence in the school system’s fiscal stewardship. Residents with further information or concerns are encouraged to contact the school district or the auditor’s office.

This story will be updated as officials release more details.

Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.