Commission confirms seven appointments to William S. Harvey Deltona scholarship advisory board

The Deltona City Commission confirmed seven members to the William S. Harvey Deltona Scholarship Advisory Board.

Vice Mayor Harriet moved to reappoint three incumbents (Walter Dawson, Reuben Medina and Harry Meeks) who indicated they wished to remain on the board; the motion passed. Commissioners then nominated and confirmed district appointments: Barbara Tornow (District 3), Darlene Okendo (District 2), Kimberly Eddins (District 5) and Brandy Reyes (District 4). Each nomination was moved and seconded and carried on voice votes; the confirmations were unanimous on each vote recorded.

During public comment Tim Blodgett urged the commission to consider sunsetting the scholarship program, criticizing fundraising and program transparency and suggesting the city had not actively raised funds for the scholarship as other groups do. Commissioners acknowledged the comment and later requested a workshop to examine the scholarship’s operations, funding, and potential sponsorship opportunities.

What’s next: staff will implement the appointments and integrate the board’s membership into advisory schedules. Commissioners requested a workshop to discuss scholarship funding and transparency.