Dara Betz

The committee discussed the status of internal audit activity, with a primary focus on the completed maintenance audit. Key discussion topics included the documentation of standard operating procedures within the maintenance and facilities department, current challenges regarding deferred maintenance funding, and the need for better integration of work order systems for both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance. The committee also addressed the importance of long-term strategic planning to manage facility needs and the status of recruitment for vacant leadership positions in facilities management.

The Board of Regents meeting involved several recognitions, including an award from the governor's office for the college's leadership in integrating biotechnology industry standards, and the honoring of a faculty member with a Rising Star award at the Why Women in Careers event. The meeting also featured a ceremonial swearing-in for the Del Mar College Police Department's inaugural group of full-time officers and the presentation of a token of appreciation to the Board. Additionally, the college president officially introduced the new executive vice president and chief operating officer.

Key discussions during the meeting included the College President's report, covering attendance at the TACC Quarterly Board Meeting and the F2D 2.0 Principal & Counselor Meeting. Staff reports featured an update on the new strategic partnership with The Jed Foundation's JED Campus program for student mental health, involving a four-year collaboration with a $20,000 commitment from the College. Additionally, an update on the F2D 2.0 program detailed strong persistence rates (82% overall) and enhancements for Cohort 2, including utilizing Civitas and Element 451 CRM. The Board discussed and ultimately voted to set tuition rates and basic charges at zero increase for the 2026-2027 academic year, citing external pressures like the governor's tuition freeze directive and internal costs. The Board also reappointed Regent Rudy Garza to the Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) #3 Board. A comprehensive annual ethics update was conducted, reviewing governing principles and the impact of new legislation (Senate Bill 37) on Board authority. Finally, the Board discussed the proposal for Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) #7 in the London area, ultimately voting to decline participation in the proposed 10-year term.

The meeting included a period for general public comments, during which none were provided. The main item of business involved a discussion and possible action regarding two proposed Tax Exemption Settlement Agreements with CPS Energy pertaining to the Barney Davis Power Plant and the Nueces Bay Power Plant. The Board convened into Closed Session to consult with legal counsel on this matter. Upon reconvening in Open Session, the Board unanimously approved, in principle, the terms of these two settlement agreements, authorizing the College President and General Counsel to finalize and execute the necessary documents. The meeting concluded after a brief discussion regarding future calendaring dates.

The meeting commenced with acknowledgments regarding local primary voting locations. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to recognizing the Stone Writing Center on its 50th anniversary, detailing its history since 1976, its role in providing writing instruction across all disciplines, and its recent relocation to the White Library. The President reported on recent activities, including participation in the Texas Association of Community Colleges meeting concerning funding and policy adjustments, attendance at the community college finance advisory meeting focusing on performance-based funding, and serving as the keynote speaker for the Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents, emphasizing Delmare College's interface with local school districts. A detailed report followed regarding the National Legislative Summit in Washington D.C., covering advocacy efforts on preserving PEL grants, addressing workforce development, and promoting affordability and student access. Key advocacy points included securing continuation of PEL grants amidst inflation adjustments and highlighting the college's vital role in regional economic health.