Voters in Bonneville County, Idaho, have approved the creation of a new community college.
KPVI-TV reports that the vote clears the way for converting the Eastern Idaho Technical College campus in Idaho Falls to the College of Eastern Idaho.
The vote was 10,213 to 4,086—71 percent to 29 percent. The ballot question needed a two-thirds majority for passage.
Supporters of the new college say it would boost higher education in the area, and would benefit students who can't afford to go to a four-year university.
The new college will use the existing buildings on the technical school campus. The Idaho Legislature has allocated $5 million to the community college for startup costs.
Opponents contended that eastern Idaho had sufficient options for higher education such as Brigham Young University-Idaho, College of Southern Idaho and Idaho State University.
Idaho State University issued a statement pledging to work with the community college.
"Idaho State University acknowledges the importance of postsecondary education in Idaho Falls, and we look forward to closely collaborating with the new community college to jointly advance higher education opportunities. ISU will continue to serve the community of Idaho Falls through our existing campus and the future polytechnic institute."
