Marco Island bond referendum separated by one vote with 100% reporting on Election Night

MARCO ISLAND, Fla. — A $23 million bond referendum for transportation improvements on Marco Island was separated by one vote Tuesday night during the Aug. 18 primary election, with 100% of precincts reporting.

The referendum received 2,257 votes in favor and 2,256 votes against, according to election results as of 11 p.m. Tuesday.

The measure would authorize the city to issue up to $23 million in general-obligation bonds to fund transportation and mobility improvements, including bridge replacements and roadway improvements.

The bonds would be backed by the city's full faith, credit and unlimited ad valorem taxing power and could mature over a period of up to 20 years.

The City Council approved the referendum in May after deciding to pursue the $23 million option. City documents said the money would support projects over 10 years, including replacing two bridges, repairing three bridges and paving 36 lane miles.

The city had also considered a larger, $34 million bond proposal, but the $23 million measure was ultimately approved for the August ballot.

With the vote separated by a single ballot, the result remains subject to the election certification process.