PHILLIPS — A slim majority of SAD 58 voters decided Tuesday they did not want to merge with Anson-based SAD 74.

Voters went to polls in Phillips, Avon, Eustis/Stratton, Kingfield and Strong on Tuesday; 208 opposed the merger, and 195 were in favor.

“Voting was steady all afternoon in Strong,” Town Clerk Lois Barker said.

SAD 74 voters from Anson, North Anson, Embden, New Portland and Solon approved the proposal Saturday by a 3-to-1 margin. Now, SAD 58’s board must hire a new superintendent, as Quenten Clark’s contract runs through the end of the school year. Kenneth Coville will continue as SAD 58’s superintendent.

Currently, the two districts share a special education program director. Projected savings for SAD 58 would have included half a superintendent’s position as well as some savings from consolidating the two districts’ business offices. SAD 58’s response to the joint venture was varied. Those who hoped to consolidate noted that SAD 58 would not pay a penalty of $140,000 for not joining with another district.