05/04/09: Expensive BPS Board Campaign Literature Sparks Election Controversy

Original YNN Buffalo Air Date: 05/04/09
An attorney for the Buffalo Niagara Partnership made a shocking admission that they are affiliated with Buffalo Students First. BSF is an organization which according to court filings has spent close to $30,000 in support of three incumbent candidates in Tuesday’s school board race.The attorney for the plaintiff says state education law requires candidates to sign off on campaign ads over $25.
At least three of the school board candidates not backed by the partnership’s affiliate say all they want is a fair shot.
Court testimony and documents brought to light indicated that three candidates featured on the controversial campaign literature appeared without their formal approval.The judge reserved decision in the matter meaning a formal ruling will come at a later time.The lawsuit also targets Buffalo City School Superintendent Dr. James Williams for failing to hand over campaign spending records in a timely manner.Voters will have the last word in this as they head to the polls Tuesday. Polls open at 6am to 9pm.