Dewey Beach has been my summer home for as long as I can remember ... first, as a young vacationer with my family, then as a summer renter, and now as a longtime homeowner. Over the course of my lifetime, I've seen the town transform into a place that incorporates family fun, while still maintaining the vibrant nightlife that attracts so many and makes us unique. I invested in this town not only because I love the atmosphere, the energy, and the sense of community ... but also because I, like so many, met my spouse in Dewey and wanted to raise my children here. So I think it's safe to say that I love this small town more than any place in the world.
That is why I feel compelled to express my dismay over some recent decisions made by members of our current town council. When I attended a recent town meeting in an effort to become more informed of the situation regarding our town manager, I was disappointed that the attendees were silenced as one of the first items on the council's agenda. Since then, I've taken the time to independently learn more about the allegations against our town manager, and am shocked that he has not been suspended from his position pending completion of the investigation.
Although I'm in no position to judge Mr. Appelbaum, it's obvious that his continued presence in the work environment has caused a great deal of distress for the alleged victims, their supporters, and the community. This makes me question not only the judgment of our town council, but the "loyalties" that have inevitably formed in the long-term relationship between our leadership and town "CEO." As a supporter of term limits across the board for any elected position, I believe it's critical for a small town like Dewey to be assured of frequent change and diversity in leadership. The benefits of term limits are numerous ... and who knows ... it may even reduce the likelihood of situations like this in the future.
Although I appreciate the service of all town commissioners, past and present, it's only right to open the door for fresh ideas. I had the pleasure of having a professional relationship with Jill Compello many years ago, and I can assure you she has the moral character, the knowledge and experience, and the fresh perspective we need in Dewey. Some of our town residents freely express their opinion that the incumbents should be re-elected to office because of their extensive experience as town commissioners.
This suggests that our newcomers aren't as capable ... or aren't more capable ... of running our town effectively, which is an absurd notion. Jill, TJ Redefer and Paul Bauer are qualified and intelligent individuals who will continue the good work of their predecessors and provide us with an influx of fresh ideas to keep our town moving forward. It's time to pump some new blood into our town council, cut the loyalty ties, and clean up this town's well-publicized mess.
Sharon Eppes-Tirone, Esq.
Wilmington
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