The Rochester City Council has approved the mayor's proposal for a referendum on a possible state takeover of the city schools.
The vote was 5 yes, 3 no, and one abstention.
The vote puts the nonbinding referendum on the November election ballot.
Mayor Warren hopes strong voter approval will persuade state lawmakers next year to authorize a state takeover for at least five years.
State Assemblyman Harry Bronson has introduced a school reform plan that stops short of a state takeover.