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Citizens ask Escambia commissioners to back UWF amid contested trustee confirmations; commissioners signal support
Summary
A grassroots group urged the Escambia County Commission to oppose confirmation of a governor—9s trustee nominee to the University of West Florida board; several commissioners said they would support a letter and consider bringing a draft to the board for formal action.
Members of a grassroots group called Save UWF told the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners on March 6 that they oppose confirmation of a gubernatorial appointee to the University of West Florida—9s board of trustees and asked the board to send a letter to the Florida Senate ethics committee.
"This is not what Pensacola and Escambia County is about. We are a welcoming place," said Marcia Lindstrom, who identified herself during public comment as part of Save UWF and described the group—9s petition and a March 18 town hall at the Studer Community Institute. Lindstrom urged the county to convey support for the university and oppose confirmation of Scott Yannor, the nominee she named in remarks.
The petition seeks a letter to the Senate ethics committee chaired by state Sen. Don Gaetz, according to Lindstrom. She said the group has organized a petition, yard signs and billboards and planned speakers for the town hall.
Several commissioners spoke in favor of sending a letter of support for the university. "I signed the petition online recently related to this as a, you know, as a representative that represents the footprint of the university," said Commissioner Baird, who identified himself as an alumnus and supporter of the university and said he would back efforts to support UWF—9s administration. Commissioner Bennett also voiced full support for the university and its leadership.
Chairman of the board said staff and legal could review a drafted letter and return it on a future agenda for formal action. "If you want to bring it back to a board agenda to sign and then maybe, forwarding that to the, to the confirmation committee ... I think Doctor Saunders would be appreciative of that," the chairman said.
Commissioners discussed doing two letters: one from the citizen group and one from the board. Commissioner Bridal said she would reach out to the nominee for comment and asked Lindstrom to draft bullets for a letter. Legal review was proposed before formal adoption. No formal vote occurred during the public forum.
Why it matters: Commissioners framed the university as an economic and community asset. Speakers and commissioners said faculty departures followed the trustee nominations and that the university supports local events and economic activity. Several commissioners indicated they would support a formal letter or other board action after legal review.
