A New York appeals court has ruled in favor of the Rochester City School District...shutting down the City of Rochester's attempt to hold a November referendum on a state takeover of the city schools.
The Appellate Division of State Supreme Court issued its written decision shortly after hearing arguments about the advisory referendum. The lower court ruled the referendum is illegal because it was advisory only. City attorneys argued in court that the city has jurisdiction over the school board because it pays the board members.
School Board President Van White says on the contrary, it's the state legislature that's in control. The court agreed with the school district’s lawyers.
Mayor Warren was hoping strong support from voters would push state lawmakers into ordering a state takeover of the Rochester schools.