Yes, a voter has brought an appeal based on absentee ballot applications. The appeal is being heard by the New York Commissioner of Education. The Library respects the right of voters to use the law to address their concerns.
Is the Library concerned that the challenge before the Commissioner of Education could undo the vote?
The Commissioner has that power, but only if an appeal shows that the issues in the complaint changed the results of the vote. The appeal that was filed does not appear to do that. The Library is more concerned that some people might not trust the process, and hopes the appeal will help rebuild voter confidence.
When will the Commissioner of Education decide?
In matters where evidence shows a school district vote could have been impacted by wrongdoing, the Commissioner has the power to take immediate action, called a “stay.” A “stay” stops the results of the vote from being implemented while the matter is being decided. The Commissioner has not issued a “stay” in this matter. Generally, these decisions take about six months, although a decision could come sooner, or later.
What if I have more questions about the vote and the appeal?
Please email any questions to Andrea Snyder, Executive Director – andrea@skanlibrary.org. Give us a little time to get them answered; we review them with our lawyer before posting them. This is a complicated area of law, and we want to get it right. We might also consolidate questions that are submitted, to save time and expense.