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FORT MYERS - Edison State College is one step closer to picking a new president even as one board member says they are fumbling the process.

"We're sort of fumbling around a little bit and failing to do the necessary preparations," said board member Pamela Seay. "Before we jump headlong into this selection process."

Seay is part of a committee of board members tasked with picking a search firm to find a replacement for Dr. Ken Walker, who remains on paid leave after a series of scandals and cover-ups on his watch.  

"I think we may have put a cart before the horse," said Seay, who thinks the college is doing things backwards.

Seay thinks the committee she's a part of should first decide what kind of president they want before hiring a search firm. 

During a two hour meeting Tuesday, trustees narrowed down the field from nine to three education search firms.

"I'm afraid we're lapsing into the way it's always been done," said Seay. "And that bothers me." 

Board member Marjorie Starnes-Bilotti is in charge of the selection process. We asked her what kind of president she would like to see.

"I am looking for a sensitive person," said Starnes-Billoti.

"What would you like in a new president that would be different from the old one?," asked Fox 4 reporter Liza Fernandez.

"I think that would be involvement with the students," said Starnes-Billoti. "Involvement in all the student activities and affairs or as many as practical."

But what about someone who doesn't waste your tax dollars? That seemed like an afterthought.

"If we don't know what direction the college wants to take," said Seay, "than it doesn't matter what [search] firm comes along."

The search is expected to cost about $100,000. The three top choices will be presented this coming Saturday with a final decision expected on Jan. 24.

The board hopes to install a new president by the fall semester.

Matt Grant
mgrant@fox4now.com