Gowanda commends Nephew for Board tenure

By BRADEN CARMEN

bcarmen@observertoday.com

GOWANDA — The final Gowanda Board of Education meeting of the school marked the end of Mark Nephew’s tenure with the district. After 27 years as a Board member, Nephew is stepping down.

Nephew, the Mayor of Gowanda, was commended by Superintendent Dr. Robert Anderson and the Board at his final meeting.

“I appreciate your friendship, leadership, insight, and being a mentor over the years. I appreciate it very much,” Anderson said to Nephew.

Board President Max Graham added, “You’ve been a pillar and a beacon for people to look to. Not enough can be said. You’ve truly been amazing and you’re going to be missed.”

At the recent meeting, the Board approved an agreement between the Gowanda Central School District and the Gowanda Teachers’ Association for a three-year extension through June 30, 2029. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. The Board also approved an amendment to Robert Anderson’s contract as Superintendent, adjusting his term of employment through June 16, 2031, and his salary in 2030-31 to $195,700.

Additionally, the Board approved several Memorandum of Understanding agreements between the District and the Gowanda Teachers’ Association. Employment contracts with four non-bargaining staff members were also approved, including Richard Smith, Director of Facilities; Kathy Ferneza, Secretary to the Superintendent; Valerie Bentley, Administrative Secretary; and Barbara Smith, Business Administrator. All four contracts run through June 30, 2029.

The official resolution to transfer funds to increase the 2026-27 budget in order to purchase four 66-passenger diesel school buses at a total cost of $694,747.16 was approved at the recent meeting. Voters approved the purchases with the budget in May. A series of additional budget transfers were also approved by the Board at the recent meeting.

Anderson said there is “not much new to share” about the district’s capital improvements, but the school pool repair continues to move forward. The tiles have been replaced and the flooring is nearing completion.

“It’s looking more and more like a pool,” Anderson said.

The next meeting of the Gowanda Board of Education will be held on Wednesday, July 9, and will serve as the organizational meeting for the upcoming year.