Last week, an editorial in this newspaper addressed the critical issue of water quality and how the high rating that Rehoboth's beaches normally enjoy depends on clean water and beaches. Our small city, so close to the ocean with three lakes, has a fragile infrastructure whose maintenance goes largely unnoticed until something goes wrong. Rest assured, Commissioner Stan Mills has our backs.
Ten years ago, before becoming commissioner, he spearheaded a program to bring more attention to the city's 622 storm drains, by placing "No Dumping" embossed plaques to raise awareness of the contaminants getting into the drains, and ultimately flowing to the lakes and ocean. Coupled with a public education program in partnership with DNREC, the project was a pivotal step in securing our reputation as one of America's top beaches.
It was no surprise that his leadership on stormwater management, along with many other accomplishments and volunteer activities, led to Stan winning a seat on the commission nine years ago as the top vote-getter. Before and every year after assuming office, he has consistently demonstrated leadership ability.
In January this year, Rehoboth suffered extensive damage to the Boardwalk and dunes during Storm Jonas. The next day, Stan was out examining the concrete pilings and wooden boards to assess the damage and communicate a repair plan to concerned citizens. Having led the Boardwalk reconstruction project in 2009-10, he's intimately familiar with all aspects of it.
From stormwater management, the Boardwalk and dunes, to the new municipal complex, the upcoming Lake Avenue streetscape project, and championing handicap access on public ways and beach crossings, Stan has proven to be an indispensible commissioner. In chairing the communications committee for the past four years, he's made sure that the public has access to available support documents for issues under discussion in the commission, that we can listen to audio recordings of the meetings online if we choose. Planning is underway in the new commissioners' room to record and access video recordings of meetings. Stan's every waking moment is spent serving the citizens of our city, even while he's walking his dogs.
The most recent water advisories show that we must remain vigilant on water quality. It's one of Stan's top priorities in the next three years and that's why he needs your vote to remain on the commission.
Given our precarious environment, some things are beyond our control. For everything else, there's Stan Mills. Please join me in re-electing Stan as a city commissioner in Rehoboth Aug. 13.
Susan Gay
Rehoboth Beach
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