Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Appointment Process topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Deltona commission keeps ranking process for filling District 6 seat after debate
Summary
After discussion and public comment about transparency and the potential for manipulation, the commission voted 4–2 to retain the ranking (matrix) process historically used to evaluate applicants for the vacant District 6 seat; the charter requires a public vote on any selected candidate after the ranking step.
The Deltona City Commission on Sept. 8 agreed to keep the established ranking process used to screen and select applicants for the vacant District 6 commissioner seat, after commissioners debated whether the method could be gamed. The vote to continue the process was 4–2.
Under the city charter, when a vacancy’s unexpired term exceeds two years the commission must appoint a replacement within 30 days; the commission also must make any final appointment in an open vote. Staff advised the commission that the application period and selection process could be posted immediately and that the 30-day charter clock begins on the resignation date. City attorney and clerk staff reminded commissioners that, even when a ranking or matrix system is used, the Sunshine Law requires a formal motion and open vote on the floor to appoint the candidate.
Commissioner Avila Vasquez said she wanted to “keep that process that has been working for many years,” describing the ranking method previously used. Vice Mayor Harriott and Commissioner Santiago opposed using the ranking matrix, saying the process had been open to manipulation and that a motion and discussion followed by an open vote would be more transparent. After public comment from District 6 residents urging a candidate who will “show up” for constituents, Commissioner Avila Vasquez moved to retain the current ranking form and Commissioner Caldwell seconded. The motion carried 4–2.
Staff said they will post the application and supporting materials and recommended a two-week application window to allow candidates to apply for the vacancy; the commission asked staff to prepare the application packet and clarifying instructions for commissioners and the public. The commission also requested that staff include a clear explanation in the public materials that the ranking step is an advisory screening tool and that any appointment must still be made by open vote on the dais in compliance with Sunshine Law and the charter.
Next steps: staff will publish the application and a proposed schedule for interviews and rankings; commissioners requested that staff conduct redaction of any personal identifying information when publicizing certain applicant materials, and to return with applicants to be ranked and considered at a subsequent public meeting within the charter’s 30-day window.
