Much attention has been given to Rehoboth's budget in the past few months, and it seems that many are jumping into the fray on the hot topic of a long-range financial plan. I have good news. It's already underway. It came up during the 15-plus hours of budget discussions held this past winter.
Our city's budget is a tool that should support what we want to accomplish. I believe it begins with a vision, and should follow the strategic priorities of the city, as detailed in the Comprehensive Development Plan, the state-mandated document developed with extensive public input to outline the city's goals and policies. The 2015 CDP update reiterated the need for a long-range capital improvement plan. Another issue noted then was traffic management and, indeed, that's one of the critical quality of life issues I hear constantly from voters.
As noted by another letter-writer last week, Rehoboth has several current commissioners who provide a deep body of knowledge to this process. Please give me your vote Aug. 12 so I can join their ranks. The experience I have gained over the last few years, including participating in the budget process, and communicating with various constituent groups about numerous city issues, means I can hit the ground running. I'm up to speed on ocean outfall, the new municipal complex, capital improvements, environmental issues and more.
I am an independent voice. I am not aligned with any other candidate, and I count people on all sides of all issues among my supporters, who know they can rely on me to be fair and balanced. I want to represent all of you. I also want to keep you informed about what the city commission is doing, and I plan to continue providing periodic updates to all after I'm elected.
At this point in the campaign process, I have met with over 300 voters and attended several neighborhood meet-and-greet gatherings in private homes where group discussions provided additional insights. I am grateful that many people have opened their doors to me, and told me their concerns. Please reach out to me with yours! To learn more, please join me at a city-wide Meet & Greet Saturday, July 22, from 4 to 6 p.m., at G Cask Kitchen, 234 Rehoboth Ave. And remember to vote Aug. 12 or by absentee ballot.
Susan Gay
candidate for Rehoboth Beach commissioner