A majority of voters in five Island communities defeated a controversial $7.68 million referendum to renovate and upgrade the LBI Grade School Tuesday night by a tally of almost 3-to-1, according to early results. The outcome of the special election is unofficial until certified next week by the county.

“The only good thing out of this outcome is that it allows us to plan for the future,” said Colette Southwick, a district parent who also serves on the school board.