- February 26, 2025
After interviewing 24 witnesses in an investigation of what the Volusia County Council referred to as the “Waverly Matter,” attorney Jon Kaney reported his findings to the officials on Sept. 4. The purpose of the investigation was to determine if legislation is needed to “maintain integrity of government and trust of the people,” according to the report he submitted.
The investigation was launched in the midst of suspicions that there was a scheme by Waverly Media and others to obtain influence over county government by helping candidates win office in the 2010 and 2012 elections.
Kaney concluded that there was no evidence that any candidate was aware of any illegality, but he said some candidates made no effort to verify the reports, according to his report.
After a motion by District Four Councilman Doug Daniels, the council voted 6 to 1 to appoint a Blue Ribbon Commission to look into legislation and policy related to campaign financing. County Council Chairman Jason Davis was the only “no” vote.
In an interview after the meeting, Davis said he believes that the members of the County Council should be the blue ribbon commission.
“If we start handing off decisions to a committee, why did we get elected?” he said.
County spokesman David Byron said no decisions have been made about how the Blue Ribbon Commission will be chosen or their specific duties.
Davis said he is sure it will be discussed at the next County Council meeting.
“It’s a hot issue,” he said. “We don’t need to drag our feet.”
