Jennifer Armentrout

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.

The primary discussion and action centered on granting Michael Kim Frederick the distinguished title of "Professor Emeritus." This status recognizes distinguished service, significant contributions to higher education, meritorious teaching, and special honors. The board reviewed policies detailing eligibility criteria concerning professional practice, educational growth, institutional/community service, and Mr. Frederick's accomplishments, including his 36 years as a professor of drama, directing over 50 productions, developing dual credit courses, his award as Community College Educator of the Year in 2017, leadership in growing the drama program to achieve national accreditation, and championing the construction of new art and drama facilities, including the Sue Finley Theater. Board members and public commenters offered testimonials highlighting his dedication, community service (including involvement in winning the All-American City designation for Corpus Christi), and mentorship.

The meeting was called to order establishing a quorum. Following a moment of silence and the pledge of allegiance, the board addressed public comment (none received). The primary discussion involved consultation with legal counsel regarding a tax exemption settlement agreement with CPS Energy. Following a closed session, the board voted unanimously to approve in principle the terms of two proposed tax exemption settlement agreements for the newis Bay power plant and the Barney Davis power plant, subject to finalizing the agreements. The board also discussed adjustments to the upcoming meeting schedule for February, March, and April due to legislative summits and professional presentations.