A controversial ban on large animal farms in Sonoma County appears to be heading for a major defeat, as early returns show 85% of the voters rejecting Measure J.

The coalition that sponsored Measure J conceded the election Thursday, bringing an end to months of contentious debate in Sonoma County’s most high-stakes race.

Voters in Sonoma County, Calif., on Tuesday rejected Measure J, which would have limited the size of animal farming operations, PBS station KQED the reported. Agricultural leaders in California and other states watched the

California voters in Sonoma County are deciding on a host of local races and measures. Among the races to watch are: California State Senate, 3rd District, where Democratic candidate Christopher Gabaldon and Republican candidate Thom Bogue lead a slate of five candidates.

Measure W, aimed at renewing the current sales tax to provide the Sonoma County Library with an estimated $18 million annually, was winning support from voters countywide, but the margin was slim.

A controversial ban on large animal farms in Sonoma County appears to be heading for a major defeat, as early returns show 85% of the voters rejecting Measure J.