A proposal to borrow $22 million to build a new jail has been rejected by Jackson County voters.

Complete, but unofficial returns, show the bond issue got 54 percent of the vote Tuesday. Bond issues require 60 percent for passage.

County officials say absentee and affidavit will not change the outcome.

Board of Supervisors President John McKay says officials will look at other methods of financing the 500-bed jail. He says another election is possible.

Officials say Jackson County’s jail is outdated and has been severely overcrowded for more than 20 years.