A $2.5 million renovation project for Telstar Regional Middle/High School was leading by a margin of more than 2-to-1 with two of the five SAD 44 towns reporting late Tuesday night.

Bethel residents voted 999-397 for it; Newry voted 144-72 in favor.

The district proposed major upgrades to the ventilation system and improving energy efficiency. The renovation would allow more fresh air into the complex and make lighting, refrigeration, roof and other upgrades.

Superintendent David Murphy said little has been done to the school since it was built more than 40 years ago.

The district has $1.2 million in a capital reserve account for the project. The remainder of the up to $1.3 million will come from a federal Quality Schools Construction Bond at no interest for up to 20 years.

The federal funds would have reverted to the lending agency if not approved by the end of the year.

Murphy declined comment until additional results are in.