June 19, 2007

MEMO TO: WesternNew York Delegation

FROM: Philip Rumore, President, BTF

RE: Support for Amended Legislation S6315 – A9048
Opposition to S6303 and the Proposed Assembly Version

We have reviewed S6315 and A9048 (enclosed) that amend the previously circulated bill.

We support this legislation as written. The bills eliminate the troubling sections. We have advised NYSUT of our support. We do, however, strongly oppose having the Mayor appoint members to the Buffalo Board of Education. The move to the current elected School Board was the result of a citywide referendum.

As such, any change should not legislatively override the wishes of the public.

If such a change is proposed, only the citizens of Buffalo should again make that decision. In addition, the legislation appears to eliminate confirmation by the Buffalo Common Council of an appointment by the Mayor to a vacancy on the Buffalo Board of Education. (p. 19)

PR:ls

Encl: 1

cc: Alan Lubin, NYSUT
Steve Allinger, NYSUT