BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Buffalo Public School Board met Wednesday night to vote on the proposed 2025-2026 budget. It passed with a vote of 5-3.
According to the Buffalo News, in the budget, Superintendent Dr. Tonja Williams laid out plans to spend almost $80 million in reserves and cut roughly 20 staff members.
Several teachers and parents voiced their concerns over the district's approval of the budget, as the district faces a deficit of $78 million.
Those who voted against the budget were Hon. Lawrence Scott, Hon. Adrianna K. Zullich and Hon. Jennifer Mecozzi.
Hon. Cindi M. McEachon was not in attendance at Wednesday night's meeting but sent me this statement:
"I am disappointed that I was not afforded the chance to participate in this evenings budget vote. When a $78 million dollar budget deficit is presented, I think it prudent to have all board members present to participate in a vote of such magnitude. While I respect the decision of my colleagues, if able, I would not have supported the budget as presented. Recognizing the needs of our children, among other things, I cannot in good conscience support a budget that cuts vital positions [school psychologists, social workers & counselors] in our district."
Hon. Cindi M. McEachon
Board VP of Executive Affairs and North District Board Member
The budget vote came amid swirling questions about which firm will lead the independent investigation into allegations that the district covered up abuse within its schools.
Buffalo Police Detective Richard Hy made the original accusations on the Unsubscribe Podcast in April. He previously spoke with 7 News about why he decided to go public with his allegations. You can read more here.
Weeks ago, the board met to vote on hiring an independent investigator, but instead, they delayed it, opting to expand the search.
No firm was announced at the board meeting. According to the district's website, the deadline for third-party firms to submit a proposal is May 30.
Hy has since appeared in more national podcasts, slamming the school district for not responding quickly to his original allegations. He appeared again on the Unsubscribe Podcast and also appeared on the Black Rifle Coffee Podcast, where he made another new allegation specifically targeting teachers. You can watch our report below and read more here.
7 News has learned that attorney Kayla Ferrel Onder is planning to file a legal complaint against Buffalo Public Schools, alleging that a dozen of her clients are victims of failed abuse reporting and sexual assault.
Onder did not confirm if Hy's comments are connected to her current clients, but said that the podcast may have encouraged potential victims to come forward. You can read more here.
