Board accepts Cindy Sherman’s resignation and moves to appoint replacement rather than hold special election

The Honeoye Central School District Board of Education accepted the resignation of board member Cindy Sherman, effective July 21, and began a process to fill the vacancy by appointment rather than a special election.

Superintendent Fluke recommended accepting the resignation; the board moved and approved the acceptance with regret. Members then discussed options for filling the seat: conducting a special election, using an application-based appointment, or directly appointing a candidate. Several members said a special election would be expensive (the board cited an estimated cost of about $2,200) and would only fill the seat until the next regular election in May, so most favored appointment to avoid the immediate fiscal outlay.

"I think that we should just appoint," said board member Jermaine, reflecting the majority view. Board members discussed approaching recent former board members who have current certifications and are able to "hit the ground running." Two names raised during the discussion were Patrick Frievold, a former board member and current teacher, and Sandy Hubbell, who indicated willingness to serve if nominated.

Some members raised concerns about limiting the community's opportunity to weigh in if the board simply appoints. "I'm concerned about appointment because I think it's important for the community to have a say," said Karen. The board agreed to seek potential nominees, contact them to confirm willingness to serve, and bring nominations to the August 27 meeting where the board will vote; if approved, the appointee could begin serving on September 17.

The process chosen — an appointment of a recent, experienced board member unless circumstances change — was presented as a way to maintain continuity while managing costs and training needs.