Surely the majority of Sussex County residents who opposed the original Overbrook Town Center rezoning application want to thank Sen. Ernie Lopez, R-Lewes, for his recent public comments, published in the Cape Gazette issue of Sept. 22, regarding this totally "out-of-character" and "intrusive" development.
Sen. Lopez categorically stated his opposition to this proposed shopping center and reminded us that Sussex County Council denied the subject rezoning request by a 4-1 vote - a strong majority. But could the out-of-state developers take no for an answer ? Not hardly! They filed a lawsuit against the council, wasting additional county administrative time and added cost to our county taxpayers for defensive legal representation.
Developers consistently state they have the best interests of the public in mind. That we the "unknowing" will fully benefit by their "behind closed door" plans.
Several months ago the Chancery Court ruled in favor of the developers, citing that the deciding vote was arbitrary and capricious - terms that could be applied to many opinions and arguments involved with land-use planning. Now a reapplication and revote have been ordered. Despite this legal setback, county council can be confident that they will continue to have the support of their constituents to hopefully once again deny the application for this shopping center.
Sen. Lopez states that this lawsuit and ruling could possibly set a precedent causing fear within the council of future litigation when special interests are denied what they want. Hopefully our elected officials will not be intimidated by this particular outcome. When the council votes using their best judgment within the law and with the support of the informed resident majority, they should feel confident with their decisions.
There are many additional details involved with this OTC application which are part of the public record but are not germane to this commentary.
Suffice it to say that the subject land parcel, located on Route 1, which is already severely congested with traffic, closely surrounded on three sides by working farms, forested areas and other natural resources, will be an ongoing target for future development regardless of public opinion and benefit or county rulings.
Sen. Lopez, thank you again for your stance on this issue and the public majority trust that you and all of our county officials will stay the course to ensure that your constituents receive the best representation for responsible growth within our entire county with decisions consistent with the final approved 2018 Comprehensive Plan.
Rich Holtkamp
Milton
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