BUFFALO (WBEN) - While it took a lot longer than many local officials had hoped, Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes and State Senator Tim Kennedy held a press conference to celebrate that Buffalo School Board elections moving forward will be held in November - not May.
Local officials are gathering this morning to announce that the Buffalo School Board election date has been changed from May to November - a move they believe will significantly increase voter turnout. @NewsRadio930 pic.twitter.com/BRxCMoOzpm
— Brendan Keany (@BrendanKeany) December 6, 2019
Those behind the push for the change believe it will significantly increase what has historically been poor voter turnout.
"It will make a huge difference," Peoples-Stokes. "When this first election happens, everybody is going to be engaged, and when everybody gets engaged, we get a better outcome."
Kennedy echoed Peoples-Stokes' sentiments, saying it's vital for public officials to provide every possible opportunity to allow easier access to voting.
"I'm the parent of three children that all attend Buffalo Public Schools - this hits home with me," he said. "I understand this issue and the importance of this issue, getting it done across the finish line and ensuring that the electorate has an opportunity to have their voice heard at the ballot box."
Along with the anticipated increase in voter turnout, officials are also saying that moving to the elections to November will be a more efficient process, saving about $100,000.
