In a surprising turn of events, Orange County Commissioners, on Tuesday, made a decision to halt funding for the office of Elections Supervisor, Glen Gilzean. The commissioners argued that Gilzean’s office had already received sufficient funds to last through the end of the year. This move comes amid rising concerns over Gilzean’s spending habits.
Gilzean’s Response
Gilzean, however, is not taking this lying down. He has promised to fight the county in court over this decision. In response to the vote, he issued a statement accusing the county of politically motivated attacks and illegal freezing of his office’s funds.
His office further stated that withholding nearly $1 million from the office could potentially result in staff and vendors not being paid. They also warned that this could damage the office during a crucial transition period and upcoming set of municipal elections. They vowed to file for an emergency writ of mandamus if the county proceeds with the funding cut.
Controversy Over Spending
Adding to the drama, Comptroller Phil Diamond revealed that he was tipped off by a confidential source about a $1.1 million transfer made by Gilzean to a Central Florida nonprofit. This was an unknown transaction until the tip-off in early October.
This is in addition to the $2.1 million Gilzean had previously given to Valencia College for scholarships and another $1.9 million to a career training center. The training center later returned the funds amid the ongoing controversy.
On attempting to verify the new $1.1 million transfer, Diamond claimed that Gilzean was evasive and refused to release public records and financial information relating to the transaction.
What’s Ahead?
Gilzean is nearing the end of his term and did not seek re-election. His successor, Karen Castor Dentel, will assume office on January 7. As such, questions are being raised about whether she will have the necessary resources to perform her duties effectively, given the current financial situation.
The spending controversy began after Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings expressed surprise at Gilzean’s spending habits last month. He accused Gilzean of misusing taxpayer dollars for non-election related expenses.
Amidst all the allegations, Gilzean maintains that as a constitutional officer, he has the right to decide how the budget is spent. He argued that the funds he allocated for scholarships and job training were aimed at increasing voter outreach and helping low-income students and unemployed workers.
As this saga continues, Gilzean remains adamant about his spending decisions while county officials insist on transparency and proper use of public funds.
