The Buffalo Board of Education voted on July 20, 2026, to reject requests from Mayor Byron Brown and New York State Education Commissioner Betty Rosa to reconsider its appointment of a new member. The board had selected a candidate without following the mayor's recommendation, leading to a dispute over the appointment process.
Mayor Brown had urged the board to delay the vote and consider his nominee, but the board proceeded with its own choice. Commissioner Rosa also intervened, asking the board to revisit the decision, citing concerns about compliance with state education law. The board's vote to reject these requests was 5-4, with members divided along political lines.
The controversy centers on the board's interpretation of its authority under state law. The mayor's office argued that the board's action violated a provision requiring consultation with the mayor, while the board maintained it had the final say. Legal experts suggest the dispute could lead to a court challenge.
This is not the first time the Buffalo School Board has clashed with city and state officials. Similar disagreements have occurred in recent years over board appointments and district governance. The outcome could set a precedent for how such appointments are handled in the future.
