Storm not affecting voting, transportation available to the polls
Note: Bethany Beach officials confirmed Friday that scheduled voting in town council elections on Saturday would take place as planned, between noon and 6 p.m. at the town hall, regardless of the weather.
However, they noted that the town trolley will be running throughout the day and should any voter have special transportation needs because of inclement weather, they can call (302) 539-1000 (the Bethany Beach Police Department) and the Town will arrange for their transportation.
Bethany Beach voters have the potential to make substantial changes to their town council roster on Saturday, with four of seven council seats up for election in the Sept. 6 voting.
Three of the seven candidates vying for the job are incumbents, with a former council member, two long-time committee members — one a council candidate in 2007 — and a political newcomer filling out the slate. All seven are full-time residents of the town.
The four seats are currently held by Councilmen Tony McClenny, Jerry Dorfman, Tracy Mulligan and Steve Wode, and have a two-year term. All off the incumbents, save Mulligan, are running for re-election.
It would be the third term for McClenny, if he is re-elected, while Dorfman would begin his second full term after first serving on the council by completing a vacated term starting in 2005. Wode was first elected to the council in 2006, amid a wave of citizen dissatisfaction, on a platform for change. He and McClenny tied atop the voting tally in that year’s election.
Former Council Member Lew Killmer and 2007 candidate Margaret Young return to the mix for this year’s voting.
Killmer has been appointed to the council twice to fill vacancies, both in 2005 and 2006. The most recent appointment came in 2006, when Killmer — who lost re-election by just five votes — was chosen to fill the council vacancy created by outgoing Mayor Jack Walsh’s unexpected resignation from the council. He opted not to run for re-election in 2007.
“This year I feel that it is an excellent time for me to take a ‘break’ and allow others a chance to serve our community,” Killmer told the Coastal Point in 2007. Instead, Kilmer accepted the council’s appointment back to the town’s planning commission, which he had headed briefly before joining the council. He was again selected to lead the commission and has done so for nearly a year.
Young ran unsuccessfully for a council seat in 2007, coming in just seven votes shy of unseating Mayor Carol Olmstead. She has served with Olmstead on the town’s Cultural and Historical Affairs Committee, helping to operate the town museum, as well as the Bethany Beach Historical Association that founded the museum.
Also a member of the Bethany Beach Women’s Civic Club and a volunteer for the Beach and Bay Cottage Tour and Bethany Beach Farmers’ Market, Young ran in 2007 on a platform emphasizing preservation of the town as a quiet, family-oriented place.
Two new names on the ballot this year are Jack Gordon and Joseph C. Bellistri.
Gordon, who retired as chief financial officer of the Navy Federal Credit Union after 26 years and has a bachelor’s degree in business administration, currently serves on the town’s Budget and Finance Committee. He has served on the board and as president of the Lake Bethany Community Association, as well as on town ad hoc committees including the Natter Property (Nature Center) Committee, the Trolley Committee and the Recycling Committee. He endorsed Olmstead in the 2007 elections.
Bellistri, who is making his first appearance in town politics this year, is a language-arts teacher and wrestling coach at Selbyville Middle School. He has served on the board of directors of the Bethany West Recreation Association.
Voting set for Saturday
Bethany Beach’s elections this year are set for Saturday, Sept. 6, from noon to 6 p.m., with in-person voting to take place at town hall during those hours. Bethany Beach property owners who are listed on the Town’s Property Tax List are not required to register to vote in town elections.
Residents of Bethany Beach who do not own property are required to register to vote at least 30 days prior to the election. The last day to register for this year’s election was Aug. 6.
Absentee ballots for the Sept. 6 elections can be obtained by filing an affidavit with the town. Affidavits are available by calling (302) 537-3771 and online on the town’s Web site at www.townofbethanybeach.com. All absentee ballots must be filed with the town by noon on Sept. 5 in order to be counted. They will be counted in a meeting of the Board of Elections at 3:30 p.m. on Sept. 6 at town hall.
A meet-the-candidates event hosted by the Bethany Beach Landowners Association is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 5, at 7 p.m. at the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company’s fire hall, adjacent to town hall. Candidates will be able to make their cases for votes, as well as answer questions from BBLA members and others present at the event.
The council will select a mayor, vice-mayor and secretary/treasurer from among resident council members at their post-election re-organizational meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 17, at 10 a.m. at the town hall.
Currently, McClenny is in his second year as vice-mayor, with Dorfman having served for two years in the position of secretary/treasurer. Olmstead has also been mayor for two years.
Under Delaware law, any council member who is a full-time resident can serve in a council officer position. With all seven candidates this year being full-time residents, any one of them could potentially be the town’s mayor on Sept. 17. Council members make nominations for the three council officer positions from among their number and then vote to determine who will serve in those positions. The council officer positions have terms of one year each.
The Sept. 17 re-organizational meeting will, for the first time, also include a transitional briefing for any new council members — a nod to the council’s emphasis in recent years on having members up to speed and ready to go for business as soon as possible. The council’s first regular meeting, post-election, is set for Sept. 19, just two days after the re-organizational meeting and less than two weeks after the election.
Candidates discuss the issues
To aid voters in making their choice in the Sept. 6 voting, the Coastal Point has once again asked all the candidates to participate in our traditional Coastal Point question-and-answer series. The candidates’ submissions appear below, beginning with incumbents and then challengers, in alphabetical order.
Jerry Dorfman
Q. How do you believe the town should prioritize capital projects in the coming years? (Pedestrian and bicycle improvements, Streetscape, drainage on Pennsylvania Avenue, a park on the former Church/Neff property and others are among a list for possible construction.) Which projects (already proposed or additional) do you think should be done immediately, in the near future, in the long-term future or shelved indefinitely? Why?
A. Prioritization of projects should be based on what benefits the most citizens of the town, actual costs and available funds, with the Budget & Finance Committee providing fiscal advice. I feel that pedestrian and bicycle safety should be a top priority because of the danger of accidents occurring and someone being hurt. Stormwater management and Streetscape have fairly large costs involved and need to be looked at as to what benefits the most citizens in return for the amount of monies to be expended and grants available.
Q. Do you believe the town should widen the boardwalk? Why or why not?
A. Widening the boardwalk seems like a project that should be done, but costs, input from citizens and time constraints must be taken into consideration before I would vote for the expansion.
Q. Did/do you favor the town’s new smoking ban? What changes, if any, would you make? Why?
A. I favored the smoking ban with the eight smoking areas on the beach. It was a compromise worked out by council. It has not had a full season of implementation, however in the short time the ban has been in effect there have been few, if any, problems.
Q. Do you believe the new dune should be reduced in height? If so, what would you do as a town council member to help make that happen?
A. The May storm lends credence to the Army Corps of Engineers’ decision on the existing dune height. The boardwalk and town property were protected. An engineering review study will be made by the Corps prior to a future replenishment, due in three to five years. Council unanimously requested the town manager to petition the Corps through DNREC to lower the dune by 2 feet. The request was denied, at this juncture. Again, it will be looked at by the Corps, which is the deciding body, not Council.
Q. Do you favor encouraging a more year-round atmosphere in the town, with additional events and attractions beyond the summer season? Do you favor moves aimed to make the town more visitor- or business-friendly?
A. The town citizens, visitors and shop owners are all important parts of the mosaic that makes up our town of Bethany Beach. Any additional attractions after the season would have to be done with the cooperation and understanding of the citizens and the business community alike. Keeping our small-town and family atmosphere is uppermost to me in any future decisions.
Q. What do you believe are the biggest issues facing Bethany Beach in the future, particularly in the two years you might serve on council if elected?
A. Fiscal responsibility has been my most important concern in my 3.5 years on council. For the past two years I have been town treasurer and have been able to report consistently that the town finances are in excellent shape. I feel strongly that we are preparing for the future with the utmost responsibility. As treasurer, I have instituted additional meetings of the Budget and Finance Committee, with the main purpose of planning for the town’s future needs and stability.
Q. How do you believe the town should balance regulations designed for the benefit of the entire town with individual citizens’ freedoms (i.e. the smoking ban, building/zoning guidelines)?
A. Government’s job is to make laws for the common good and safety. An example is seatbelt laws, which are in effect to protect and save lives. I do not hear much public outcry against them. I see the smoking ban in the same vein. Building/zoning laws are important requirements that need public input and debate. Decisions on laws can not be made without the citizens’ input and point of view being heard.
Q. Please address why you feel you are the best candidate for a council seat and state any elements of your campaign platform that are not addressed by the above questions.
A. My wife and I have been volunteers since moving here full-time in 1999. I have served on many town committees, taken municipal education courses, been a planning commission member and served on town council for 3.5 years. The past two years I was secretary/treasurer. I have worked very hard for the common good and sound fiscal responsibility. I hope I have your vote to continue to work for you.
Tony McClenny
Q. How do you believe the town should prioritize capital projects in the coming years? (Pedestrian and bicycle improvements, Streetscape, drainage on Pennsylvania Avenue, a park on the former Church/Neff property and others are among a list for possible construction.) Which projects (already proposed or additional) do you think should be done immediately, in the near future, in the long-term future or shelved indefinitely? Why?
A. Our Town Council receives recommendations for capital projects from public input, our town manager and staff. We identify and review long- and short-term goals at least twice annually, and we have established a capital projects prioritization process.
Capital projects are expensive and are prioritized based on need, opportunity, finances and public input. From time to time, we have sought and obtained state and federal financial assistance. Our town is in good financial condition, yet some projects are so expensive they are on hold.
When the decision is made to implement a capital project, the town manager, town finance manager and Budget and Finance Committee are asked to review the project and to make recommendations regarding possible financing methods and/or available grants.
My list of potential capital projects is listed below by priority: (a) Widen our boardwalk The need to decide if we should do this is our highest priority due to the deadline imposed by the state agency of authority for the beach. (b) Water storage/system. Town Council is currently examining the need for additional water storage and reviewing the filter system to see if it should be maintained or replaced. (c) Bicycle and pedestrian safety. The primary area of concern is crossing Route 1 and the east west Oceanside streets and Collins. (d) Garfield Parkway enhancement. After years of public hearings and several proposed plans, Town Council has agreed upon a “Streetscape” plan of action using Town funding to initiate the project with hoped for state grant funding and support by the Delaware Department of Transportation. (e) Drainage on N. Pennsylvania Avenue. We have had a standing-water problem for years and we are anticipating the need for water line replacement. When we schedule the water line replacement, we should consider options for the enhancement of stormwater drainage at the same time. This will be a huge expense, and state funds and town loans will be needed.
Q. Do you believe the town should widen the boardwalk? Why or why not?
A. Although I placed the boardwalk expansion as my No. 1 capital project priority (due to the one-year permit limitation), as of this moment, I have not formed a position on this project. My initial reaction was that this was a wonderful opportunity for the Town, however that feeling has been tempered by the comments of others and I continue to ask for opinions and reasons for the same when speaking to our business and property owners. Perhaps as a result of reading this question and the candidate’s comments, our constituents can be persuaded to contact our Council members and provide us with their thoughts on this issue.
Q. Did/do you favor the town’s new smoking ban? What changes, if any, would you make? Why?
A. I fully support the ordinance regarding smoking on our beach, boardwalk, playground and public parks, as did over 80 percent of those who provided public comment during the year-long process of consideration for the ordinance. Comments received from many families using the beach this summer were extremely positive. Changes to the current ordinance are unnecessary, as it provides a number of beach smoking areas for those who need to smoke and at the same time allows others to enjoy these smoke-free areas.
Q. Do you believe the new dune should be reduced in height? If so, what would you do as a town council member to help make that happen?
A. Count me as one of the many who are disappointed that we can no longer observe the surfline on our beach while sitting or walking on our boardwalk. Based on information provided by the United States Corps of Engineers, the height determined by experts and subsequently installed will provide our homeowners and business owners with a proper level of protection from storm water damage. Having seen the devastation caused by the storm of 1962, having seen the major damage to the new dune and having observed that it prevented damage to our boardwalk, homes and businesses, during the intense Mother’s Day storm of 2008, I am convinced the dune is working as designed. The Corps has indicated to us that they will create a new model and, if the dune should be lowered, they will do so during a future replenishment.
Q. Do you favor encouraging a more year-round atmosphere in the town, with additional events and attractions beyond the summer season? Do you favor moves aimed to make the town more visitor- or business-friendly?
A. Our year-round residents enjoy a number of events sponsored by our Cultural and Historical Affairs committee during the winter months, and I would like to see that continue and expand. Those of us who attend these events enjoy the social aspect of greeting friends and acquaintances, as well as the activity being featured. Although my wife and I enjoy our small-town atmosphere (one of the reasons we moved here as permanent residents), we need to remember that a large number of our citizens own rental property, and both these individuals and our businesses want all of us to have a visitor- and business-friendly community. My opinion is that we can make reasonable compromises and accommodate the needs of all.
Q. What do you believe are the biggest issues facing Bethany Beach in the future, particularly in the two years you might serve on council if elected?
A. The most important issue facing our town in the next two years is the fiscal challenge to continue to manage our budget as efficiently and effectively as we have during the last several years. The State of Delaware collects a real estate property transfer tax and shares that revenue with the towns. Due to the dramatic decline in real estate sales, every municipality has been hard hit with a major decline in revenue. Foreseeing this decline, our town manager, finance manager and those individuals from our community who serve as members of the Budget and Finance Committee worked together to make recommendations to our Town Council for immediate action to reduce spending, and while preparing our fiscal budgets, we carefully examined all opportunities to budget and operate conservatively. At this time, our finances are in excellent condition, we are operating our town within the budget and we have maintained services that you and I have come to expect as part of the quality of life in Bethany Beach.
Q. How do you believe the town should balance regulations designed for the benefit of the entire town with individual citizens’ freedoms (i.e. the smoking ban, building/zoning guidelines)?
A. Municipalities generally support laws and regulations that reflect the will of the majority and are deemed to be reasonable for the benefit of the overall community. An individual citizen’s freedoms are based on principles that we have seen change over time. This is how a modern democratic society provides its citizens with the right to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”
In Bethany Beach, notice of all proposed ordinances to be discussed during a Town Council meeting are posted as part of the Council meeting agenda in five public locations around town and are published on the Town’s Web site. A “first reading” of the ordinance (synopsis) is performed during a Council meeting, time for public comment is provided and an optional period of discussion by Council members may take place. Typically, during the Council meeting the following month a “second reading” is completed, time for public comment is provided, an optional period of discussion is provided, followed by a vote by the Council. In an effort to obtain public comment, public hearings are held for all zoning ordinances and ordinances known to be controversial. These public hearings were held for the subjects referenced in question seven.
Q. Please address why you feel you are the best candidate for a council seat and state any elements of your campaign platform that are not addressed by the above questions.
A. I am a bit uncomfortable addressing why I feel I am the best candidate for a council seat. Let me simply provide you with my qualifications for the Town Council seat.
During the last four years, I have served as secretary/treasurer and vice-mayor, thus I have been more involved and am therefore more knowledgeable of the overall work of the town than one who has never served on a committee and/or has no experience at the Town Council level. I am known to be: courteous to others, one who initiates action using creative problem-solving, able to actively and effectively work with other Council members. I believe what others think and say is important, thus I am an excellent listener. We need individuals on Council who fully participate, listen, discuss and make well-informed decisions in a cooperative manner. Thank you for your consideration of my continued service as a Town Council member.
Some of my personal efforts made to serve as a Town Council member include: (a) Certification by the University of Delaware’s Institute of Public Administration. (b) Encouraged other Council members to attend the University of Delaware courses. (c) Active participation in Sussex County Association of Towns’ meetings to stay in touch and work with officials from other towns, county and state. (d) Served on Planning Commission, Non-Residential Design Review Board, Budget and Finance, Charter and Ordinance, Trolley, Communications and Web Site Committees; (e) Working in tandem with the mayor in all aspects of our Town, including the recent multi-town ambulance service agreement and the current Assawoman bicycle and pedestrian pathway.
Steve Wode
Q. How do you believe the town should prioritize capital projects in the coming years? (Pedestrian and bicycle improvements, Streetscape, drainage on Pennsylvania Avenue, a park on the former Church/Neff property and others are among a list for possible construction.) Which projects (already proposed or additional) do you think should be done immediately, in the near future, in the long-term future or shelved indefinitely? Why?
A. Pedestrian and bicycle improvements, especially sidewalks east of Route 1 and feeder pathways from west of Route 1 into this network, are needed now to improve public safety. We need to begin to build dedicated reserves to support capital projects dealing with infrastructure needs: water plant, storage and delivery needs; and Pennsylvania Avenue drainage. Streetscape, while desirable for continuing town beautification, is not as deserving of funding at this time. Funding for public safety and infrastructure needs take precedence to maintain Bethany’s quality of life. Improvements to the Church/Neff property, if done as proposed, using town staff over time, can be budgeted.
Q. Do you believe the town should widen the boardwalk? Why or why not?
A. Widening the boardwalk is unnecessary. Pedestrian traffic is slowed in the bandstand area, especially during a performance. Using reserves to alleviate congestion for 10 weeks of the year is fiscal folly. In what appears to be an increasingly active hurricane season, these reserves need to be available for boardwalk replacement or beach replenishment if necessary.
Q. Did/do you favor the town’s new smoking ban? What changes, if any, would you make? Why?
A. I smoke, and I supported the smoking ban because of the non-biodegradable cigarette filters. Filters are a threat to aquatic wildlife and are almost impossible to cleanup. I would add more cigarette receptacles at entrances to the non-smoking areas.
Q. Do you believe the new dune should be reduced in height? If so, what would you do as a town council member to help make that happen?
A. I am not in favor of reducing the dune height. Beach replenishment projects are approved to alleviate storm property damage. I believe significant boardwalk and oceanside damage would have occurred during the May storm this spring without the new dune.
Q. (Do you favor encouraging a more year-round atmosphere in the town, with additional events and attractions beyond the summer season? Do you favor moves aimed to make the town more visitor- or business-friendly?
A. I believe a vibrant business community improves Bethany’s quality of life. Appropriate events and attractions help the businesses and provide choices for citizens and others in the off-season.
Q. What do you believe are the biggest issues facing Bethany Beach in the future, particularly in the two years you might serve on council if elected?
A. Ongoing inland development strains Bethany resources. Only Rehoboth has more public beach access parking than Bethany. The need for pedestrian and bicycle improvements is obvious as these vehicles search for parking spaces. There are miles of state beach north and south of Bethany. Too much, in my view, is dedicated for fisherman access. The state needs to provide more facilities for beachgoers. Traffic on Route 26 is a nightmare at times. The current DelDOT construction for Route 26 is not scheduled to begin until fall 2011, pending funding approval. Can we improve this schedule or find near term ways to improve traffic flow, especially through Ocean View?
Q. How do you believe the town should balance regulations designed for the benefit of the entire town with individual citizens’ freedoms (i.e. the smoking ban, building/zoning guidelines)?
A. Council’s task is to identify regulations truly designed to benefit the entire town that are not detrimental to individual citizens’ freedoms. This is open government, and when I ran for council in 200, this is how I responded to the open-government question: “Open government to me means change has received adequate public discussion and input. Some changes must occur quickly to resolve problems. Most changes should be openly discussed for months to assure public input results in the most effect change for the whole town. The most effective government requires active citizen involvement.”
Q. Please address why you feel you are the best candidate for a council seat and state any elements of your campaign platform that are not addressed by the above questions.
A. If you’ve attended council meetings or read local newspaper articles reporting on council activities, I’m the one asking questions to elicit council and public discussion, seeking answers and new ideas. Join with me. Ask. Let the town know what’s important and what you don’t like.
Joe Bellistri
Q. How do you believe the town should prioritize capital projects in the coming years? (Pedestrian and bicycle improvements, Streetscape, drainage on Pennsylvania Avenue, a park on the former Church/Neff property and others are among a list for possible construction.) Which projects (already proposed or additional) do you think should be done immediately, in the near future, in the long-term future or shelved indefinitely? Why?
A. One capital project that needs to be prioritized is pedestrian and biker safety. Currently, given the volume of summer visitors, bikers and walkers and cars all share the road, especially on routes running perpendicular to route one and the beach. We need separate paths for walkers and bikers to keep everyone safe and traffic flowing. Another project that should be put into motion is the park on the Neff property. And lastly the ongoing problem of poor drainage needs to be addressed. The streetscape project sounds great but these other issues are really more important.
Q. Do you believe the town should widen the boardwalk? Why or why not?
A. I do not believe the town should widen the boardwalk at this time. If anything is done to the boardwalk, it should be repairing what we have or raising it so folks can see the ocean again.
Q. Did/do you favor the town’s new smoking ban? What changes, if any, would you make? Why?
A. There’s nothing more disgusting than seeing someone use the beach for an ashtray. However, legislation aimed at such annoyances is negative and time-consuming. Dwelling on the smoking ban is a waste of energy.
Q. Do you believe the new dune should be reduced in height? If so, what would you do as a town council member to help make that happen?
A. Oh, the dune; the mundane monolith of sand. If it was up to me I would bulldoze the entire dune about 50 yards to the west so it was sitting where the old natural dune used to be. I would then push half of it out into the ocean and expose the jetties and create sandbars. In reality, anytime you get Army engineers and DNREC running a project, you get miles of red tape. You can bet I’ll be shifting through that tape to see what can be done to “fix” Bethany’s beach and, at the very least, knock a few feet off the top of the dune.
Q. Do you favor encouraging a more year-round atmosphere in the town, with additional events and attractions beyond the summer season? Do you favor moves aimed to make the town more visitor- or business-friendly?
A. I strongly agree that more events need to be planned for the off-season visitors and residents. In fact, I feel residents really deserve a little perk for weathering the onslaught of tourists. I’m not really sure how Bethany could become more business- or visitor-friendly. In fact, we might be too friendly at present.
Q. What do you believe are the biggest issues facing Bethany Beach in the future, particularly in the two years you might serve on council if elected?
A. I think two of the biggest issues facing Bethany are the crowds and the beach. It’s ironic that, as Bethany’s beach becomes more and more crowded, less people I know visit the beach in Bethany. Bethany’s small-town charm needs to be embraced and protected. As far as the beach goes, we’re in for trouble. The dune was built way too far to the east and the surf will be pounding at the foot of the dune sooner than all the “experts” believe. Solely pumping more sand onto the beach is futile in the long run. We need to explore various ways to retain sand, such as jetties and artificial reefs.
Q. How do you believe the town should balance regulations designed for the benefit of the entire town with individual citizens’ freedoms (i.e. the smoking ban, building/zoning guidelines)?
A. Too many regulations are never a good thing, because you need too many enforcers and regulators, and before you know it, the town looks like Pleasantville. An individual’s freedom is the principle on which this country is founded.
Q. Please address why you feel you are the best candidate for a council seat and state any elements of your campaign platform that are not addressed by the above questions.
A. Bethany is indeed the “family” resort. I believe most residents like the fact that Bethany is family-oriented. As the only resident and a local middle school teacher who is currently raising a family of young children in Bethany Beach, I will be a strong advocate for family safety, recreation and entertainment. And, lastly, I must say I am not totally thrilled with how crowded Bethany has become. Mob scenes certainly detract from this town’s natural charm. I’d work hard to retain the charm of this town.
Jack Gordon
Q. How do you believe the town should prioritize capital projects in the coming years? (Pedestrian and bicycle improvements, Streetscape, drainage on Pennsylvania Avenue, a park on the former Church/Neff property and others are among a list for possible construction.) Which projects (already proposed or additional) do you think should be done immediately, in the near future, in the long-term future or shelved indefinitely? Why?
A. Before we can prioritize the capital projects the town has identified, we must determine if each project is feasible by estimating the cost, identifying the potential sources for funding and the time required for completion, and examining the pros and cons for doing each. At that point, based on the facts that have been gathered, the residents and property owners of Bethany should have the opportunity to give their input in deciding which projects should be undertaken. I do not believe that projects such as Garfield Streetscape, Pennsylvania Stormwater and Bike and Pedestrian Safety or the Church/Neff property have enough definition to be prioritized now. However, because of concerns for public safety, projects involving pedestrian and bicycle safety are priority candidates to be defined in the immediate future, with participation by citizens to determine what should be done.
Q. Do you believe the town should widen the boardwalk? Why or why not?
A. The possibility of widening the boardwalk is receiving immediate attention in that special circumstances resulting from the beach replenishment have resulted in DNREC’s granting approval for the project. In addition, funding is available through the beach and boardwalk and capital replacement reserve funds (to be repaid over five years). I believe the town should proceed with the widening because at some point in the relatively near future, increased growth and tourist activity in the area — whether we encourage it or not — will make a wider boardwalk an asset to the town and its businesses. However, prior to making the decision on whether or not to go ahead with the project, the next Council should present Bethany Beach citizens with the pertinent facts and options and should encourage the public to express their opinions
Q. Did/do you favor the town’s new smoking ban? What changes, if any, would you make? Why?
A. I favor the smoking as enacted by the Council this year. I believe the compromise reached for providing smoking areas on the beach created a feasible approach for accomplishing the goals of the ordinance of a more pleasant family experience, a cleaner beach and boardwalk, and a healthier atmosphere. I do not believe any changes are necessary, and I have been impressed by the positive attitudes, the lack of complaints and the general cooperation of the smokers.
Q. Do you believe the new dune should be reduced in height? If so, what would you do as a town council member to help make that happen?
A. The Army Corps of Engineers has advised that nothing will be done with the dune until the next replenishment, in three to five years. I believe that any effort spent attempting to change the circumstance of the dune before then would not be productive. Even if the town were to have the necessary permission to alter the dune, I do not believe that we should attempt that. The storm of last May showed us how vulnerable the town and boardwalk would have been if the dune had not been in place. Aesthetic concerns must be balanced with safety concerns. The town has attempted to mitigate the problem created by the height of the dune by putting benches on the crossovers. Also, the dune will continue to settle. The best decision concerning the dune can be made after the passage of some time has provided an adequate amount of experience with the dune.
Q. Do you favor encouraging a more year-round atmosphere in the town, with additional events and attractions beyond the summer season? Do you favor moves aimed to make the town more visitor- or business-friendly?
A. In recent years, both Ocean City and Rehoboth have tried to expand their seasons and become year-round resorts by offering special programs in seasons other than summer. Bethany benefits from their activities because they bring business here by extension. However, I do not favor encouraging more year-round tourism in Bethany by our trying to offer more events and attractions here. For one thing, we have no facilities in town for such activities. In addition, my sense of the town citizenry is that we enjoy the off-season with fewer visitors and less traffic. For the most part, visitors come to Bethany to enjoy the beach and the level of business activity currently available to them. The relative lack of turnover in businesses and the low tax burdens put on businesses by the town would indicate that the business community is content with the current arrangement.
Q. What do you believe are the biggest issues facing Bethany Beach in the future, particularly in the two years you might serve on council if elected?
A. The largest issue in the near term facing the town is the maintenance of a sound financial basis throughout the current downturn of the economy. The continuing issues of growth in the surrounding areas and the attendant traffic congestion will also have to be addressed, but on a cooperative regional basis. Also of importance will be getting a handle on the potential costs of capital projects on the table, getting public input on their relative importance and developing the funding within our means to do those considered most important.
Q. How do you believe the town should balance regulations designed for the benefit of the entire town with individual citizens’ freedoms (i.e. the smoking ban, building/zoning guidelines)?
A. New regulations or changes in the town’s code should not be made unless there is significant public desire to address an issue. Regulations that aim to protect the safety, health and quiet enjoyment of the public may be necessary even if they get in the way of some individual freedoms, but these regulations should not be undertaken without adequate research and opportunity for the expression of public opinion. As a case in point, I question whether there is any overwhelming wish on the part of our town residents to control the height and number of flagpoles on properties in the town or the size and condition of flags on them, as is currently being proposed.
Q. Please address why you feel you are the best candidate for a council seat and state any elements of your campaign platform that are not addressed by the above questions.
A. I believe I could add significant value to the make up of the town council if elected. I have financial expertise to assist the town in coping with the difficult economic times of the next few years. I have leadership experience in my prior career and recent community activities. I am open-minded on issues such as those that will be brought before the council. Also, I can work with others on the council while maintaining my independence.
Lew Killmer
Q. How do you believe the town should prioritize capital projects in the coming years? (Pedestrian and bicycle improvements, Streetscape, drainage on Pennsylvania Avenue, a park on the former Church/Neff property and others are among a list for possible construction.) Which projects (already proposed or additional) do you think should be done immediately, in the near future, in the long-term future or shelved indefinitely? Why?
A. • Boardwalk widening: Bethany Beach has the narrowest boardwalk of all of the coastal communities in Delaware, Maryland and New Jersey that have boardwalks. Our boardwalk is used year-around by our residents/property owners, neighbors in surrounding communities and vacationers. Our boardwalk is a wonderful place to enjoy shows during the summer months, take leisurely walks with family, friends and pets, exercise, ride bikes, as well as being an excellent location to host a number of annual fund raising events. Widening the entire length of the boardwalk by 8 feet will significantly enhance the utility of the boardwalk. This project should be started this fall/winter with funding coming from the Beach and Boardwalk Improvement Fund.
• Water treatment facility upgrades: The Town of Bethany Beach has only one water storage tower, in the form of a standpipe. The Town needs to construct a second water storage tower to be able to continue to meet current and future peak demand requirements. A second tower will allow uninterrupted water service when maintenance and repair to either of the storage units is required without having to purchase water from outside commercial water companies. This should be funded within the next several years.
• Development of the former Church/Neff Property: Several years ago the Town purchased this property located on the northeast corner of Routes 1 and 26. Now that the “401 Wetland”-related issues have been resolved it is now time for this “Gateway to Bethany Beach” property to be developed. The Town Council has approved the expenditure of up to $5,000 for a conceptual design plan for the property. Once the final design elements have been reviewed and approved by the Town Council and interested members of the public, work can then proceed using current town employees to complete a significant portion of the project.
• Pedestrian/bicycle safety improvements: A comprehensive plan needs to be developed and funding sources need to be identified for initiating this very important but very expensive effort. The Planning Commission has already completed a survey of both the location and current condition of all of the existing sidewalks on the eastside of town. A list prioritizing which continuous sidewalk systems on which key streets in Bethany Beach needs to be developed. In addition, bicycle lanes should be included where applicable when developing future plans. This will be a long-term and continuous capital-intensive project.
• Streetscape/improvements to Pennsylvania Avenue: While not directly related, I have grouped these two items together because they require millions of dollars to fund. While both are important and will improve quality-of-life-related issues in our town, with the downturn in the federal, state and local economies, I believe that both of these projects will have to be put on hold until sources of funding can be identified.
Q. Do you believe the town should widen the boardwalk? Why or why not?
A. I have previously addressed this question, but I have heard a concern from residents and property owners that a wider boardwalk will only bring more people to Bethany Beach and add to the already overcrowding issue. In my opinion, the amount of available parking is the critical factor that dictates how many people come to Bethany Beach, not increasing the width of our currently very narrow boardwalk. Secondly, won’t all of those who enjoy using the boardwalk on a year-round basis enjoy the benefit of a wider boardwalk? The timing for this proposed project is ideal, because it coincides with the time that significant sections of the boardwalk needed to be re-decked anyway.
Q. Did/do you favor the town’s new smoking ban? What changes, if any, would you make? Why?
A. With the significant widening of the beach last fall, I felt that the Town should have postponed the smoking ban for a year to see if smoking on the beach was still a significant concern. Smoking bans on the boardwalk, bandstand area and playgrounds, I have no problem supporting. I still have questions related to enforcement issues.
Q. Do you believe the new dune should be reduced in height? If so, what would you do as a town council member to help make that happen?
A. If anyone still thinks that the height of the dune is too high, this spring’s nor’easter should put that issue to rest. There were sections of the “too high” dune that were either breached or nearly breached. Isn’t the safety and protection to the Town’s infrastructure, and especially the property owners east of Route 1, the primary reason the Army Corps constructed the dune to its current height? Does anyone think that a storm of the magnitude of the 1962 storm can’t happen here again in Bethany Beach? Would a lower dune height offer increased protection? The Town is trying to accommodate those who were upset with the loss of being able to see the beach and surf from the boardwalk by placing benches at the top of the dunes.
Q. Do you favor encouraging a more year-round atmosphere in the town, with additional events and attractions beyond the summer season? Do you favor moves aimed to make the town more visitor- or business-friendly?
A. Many seniors from surrounding states with high property and school taxes are selling their homes and permanently relocating to Delaware and especially to coastal Sussex County. This segment of the population brings with them a desire to re-create some of the year-round amenities, such as shopping and entertainment choices, that they have grown accustomed to and expect. This fact has not been lost on the banking industry; note all the new banks on just one corner in Millville. When a critical mass of people relocate to this area on a year-round basis, the business community will respond to their needs with more upscale shops and entertainment choices. There is no need to choose between making the town more visitor- or business-friendly. To have a bright and sustainable future, we need both, not one or the other.
Q. What do you believe are the biggest issues facing Bethany Beach in the future, particularly in the two years you might serve on council if elected?
A. Besides the challenges associated with the funding of big-ticket capital projects, there is a need to have all of the coastal towns in Sussex County to join together and speak with one voice to the County Council about the negative impact that over-development in the county has on quality-of-life-related issues in our beach communities. With three new members joining County Council this fall, it is a perfect time to educate, discuss and insist that our concerns be addressed.
I would like to see the Town Council begin to develop a more proactive, rather than reactive, relationship with the town’s business owners. Explore the potential of addressing the year-round needs of an ever-growing permanent resident base. Work together to develop a business plan to introduce and financially support businesses that meets the needs of the community as the town slowly transitions from being a primary vacation destination to a sustainable year-round community.
Q. How do you believe the town should balance regulations designed for the benefit of the entire town with individual citizens’ freedoms (i.e. the smoking ban, building/zoning guidelines)?
A. For the most part, regulations are created because it has come to someone’s attention that an issue exists and/or a problem has surfaced that needs to be researched and may need to be addressed and/or corrected. I personally look at regulations as a guide on how to successfully/legally achieve what a person or a business wants to do, rather then a list of things they are not permitted to do.
If you look at our town’s ordinances, Non-Residential Design Guidelines and zoning regulations, you will see for the most part it provides a roadmap on how a government, a business or a resident can achieve what they ultimately want to do or accomplish. Regulations offer a level playing field for all while at the same time protecting the rights of individuals.
Q. Please address why you feel you are the best candidate for a council seat and state any elements of your campaign platform that are not addressed by the above questions.
A. For the last several years, I have been totally committed to our town not only by my words but also by my measurable accomplishments. I have served on two previous town councils by completing two mid-term appointments of two former mayors. Over the same period of time, I have chaired a number of standing town committees, such as the Planning Commission, the Charter and Ordinance Review Committee and the Non-Residential Design Review Committee. During the past four years, I’ve been involved in virtually every town council meeting and workshop. I have participated as a citizen in discussions taking place within those standing committees of which I am not a member.
If I am fortunate enough to be elected, because of my total involvement with the town, I will be fully prepared the moment that I am sworn in to immediately get to work on your behalf.
Margaret Young
Q. How do you believe the town should prioritize capital projects in the coming years? (Pedestrian and bicycle improvements, Streetscape, drainage on Pennsylvania Avenue, a park on the former Church/Neff property and others are among a list for possible construction.) Which projects (already proposed or additional) do you think should be done immediately, in the near future, in the long-term future or shelved indefinitely? Why?
A. Traffic safety and drainage are major priorities. Due to cars parked on the broken, or non-existent sidewalks, pedestrians are forced into the streets with vehicles and bicycles. This is especially dangerous at night. PA Ave. drainage is a disaster. After a storm, driving is impossible, walking , dangerous, and the post office, inaccessible. Stating that, “It has always been like this, is not acceptable. An emergency beach replenishment fund should be established. The frequency and intensity of future storms is unpredictable, as is the availability of government funds. A decision on the use of the Church/Neff property should be made in the near future. Since the land comprises 5.8682 acres, there is room for several ventures. The purchase contract stipulates for the installation of a memorial “honoring residents of the town and its environs who have served in the U.S. military, on active duty, outside the continental U.S.” The land would provide an ideal setting for a permanent town museum, possibly utilizing a donated historic home, as Town Hall lacks space for many pictures and artifacts. A small, fenced-in dog park could be considered. The Streescape should be classified as long-term, or shelved indefinitely. The present design shows a bike path on Garfield Parkway, from Route 1 to Pennsylvania Avenue., which is discontinued from Pennsylvania Avenue. to Atlantic Avenue, forcing cyclists into vehicular traffic when they least expect it.
Q. Do you believe the town should widen the boardwalk? Why or why not?
A. A wider boardwalk would not afford a better view of the beach and ocean. The boardwalk is only crowded at the season’s height, in the bandstand area, when there is entertainment. Even then, it is not impassible. The “once in a lifetime” statement is false. State permission could be extended for longer than a year, or the Town could reapply at a later date. The $700,000, or more, cost, borrowed from our reserves, would be of greater benefit if applied to a beach replenishment fund.
Q. Did/do you favor the town’s new smoking ban? What changes, if any, would you make? Why?
A. I did not favor the smoking ban last year, and still do not. I do not deny the dangers of indoor secondhand smoke, but am not convinced of its outdoor danger. I am unaware of any study which addresses this particular question. As the beach cannot be viewed from the boardwalk, it is necessary to patrol the beach constantly in order to enforce this law.
Q. Do you believe the new dune should be reduced in height? If so, what would you do as a town council member to help make that happen?
A. The original replenishment plan called for a 14- to 16-foot dune elevation. The council members in office at that time were aware of this. Unfortunately, the federal government is not going to reduce the dune at this time. If I am in office when the beach is replenished in three to five years, in compliance with the 50-year plan, I promise to work to have the dune corrected to provide a better view. Because I was extremely disappointed in this result of the replenishment, I requested the installation of benches at the tops of the dune crossovers.
Q. Do you favor encouraging a more year-round atmosphere in the town, with additional events and attractions beyond the summer season? Do you favor moves aimed to make the town more visitor- or business-friendly?
A. Bethany Beach offers many attractions beyond the summer season. The Cultural and Historic Affairs Committee sponsors informative and entertaining events during the off-season, which are free and include refreshments. There are Christmas parties for both children and adults. Craft shows are held in the fall and spring. The Bethany Watercolor Society exhibits their artwork in Town Hall, as do the artists of “Paint Out Day.” The Town has exerted great effort in welcoming visitors, who patronize town businesses. Among the amenities offered are the beautiful floral displays, bandstand entertainment, the sports and playground facilities, several change stations, which supply information folders, and the foot wash/all-purpose showers at the boardwalk approaches. We need more resident-friendly policies.
Q. What do you believe are the biggest issues facing Bethany Beach in the future, particularly in the two years you might serve on council if elected?
A. The biggest issue facing Bethany Beach in the future is the ever-increasing influx of visitors from the surrounding inland communities. Bay Forest has been added to the list of developments parking their shuttles on Garfield Parkway. We should charge $8,000 per shuttle seasonally, as do the state beaches, not the $3,000 now in effect. Our serious lack of traffic safety is caused by the above described conditions. If elected, I would work intensely on solutions to this problem, which has reached epidemic proportions.
Q. How do you believe the town should balance regulations designed for the benefit of the entire town with individual citizens’ freedoms (i.e. the smoking ban, building/zoning guidelines)?
A. Individual freedoms must not infringe upon the freedoms and lifestyles of other citizens. Large, out-of-place structures drastically reduce their neighbors’ views and air supplies. An outdoor amusement facility is placing a monetary hardship upon the abutting homes, as they must remain closed, with their air conditioners in use, during the summer season, due to noise produced and late-hour lighting of this business. The building code needs to be reviewed, since it is permissible to raise the level of the ground before home construction, thereby causing the flooding of neighboring properties. At least one large home has “guest quarters,” with a separate entrance, living accommodations and a small kitchen, equipped with a clothes washer and dryer, dish washer, refrigerator, coffee maker, microwave oven and electric grill. However, this is not an apartment. Individual rights must be balanced with the common good.
Q. Please address why you feel you are the best candidate for a council seat and state any elements of your campaign platform that are not addressed by the above questions.
A. I am a good candidate for a council seat because I know the town and the people. Over time, I have spoken with hundreds of residents. More importantly, I have listened to them and will continue to do so. It’s dangerous for politicians to think they know what’s best for us without ascertaining our desires. The reason for the lack of early, sustained and interactive public involvement in town affairs is the citizens’ belief that neither their experience nor opinions are valued. I have been told many times that the council regards only its own agendas as important. My qualifying experience for council is not as the CEO of a large corporation, nor the possession of a high military rank, but in the day-to-day participation in numerous activities benefiting Bethany, and in the many hours over the years listening to and attempting to assist with citizens’ concerns, all of which I have thoroughly enjoyed.