My name is Richard Perry. I am running for the board of commissioners once again because I still deeply care about Rehoboth Beach and our future. After vacationing here for decades, I fell in love with Rehoboth Beach, bought a house and retired here nearly seven years ago. I am proud to call Rehoboth Beach my home.

Last year was the first time I was a candidate for the board of commissioners. During that election process, I encouraged dialogue on important issues – our local economy, property rights and citizen involvement. I called for greater transparency and improved communications. I believe my focus played an important role in the board now making information packages available in advance of meetings, plans to videotape meetings so that all can see our commissioners in action when it is convenient for them, and the recent hiring of a communications specialist.

While there have been some positive improvements, a lot has not changed. Property rights remain under attack. Ordinances are proposed or adopted that make our city less attractive for residents, visitors and businesses – such as restaurants. Too much time is spent on solutions looking for problems that do not exist – while other issues languish.

We need to provide incentives for residential property owners – not disincentives; improve our city's infrastructure; and develop a rational tree ordinance and a city program to systematically plant and maintain trees in public ways.

We need to put an end to the destruction of our beautiful tree canopy by working with utilities to find better ways to provide our utility services. We need to focus on the sustainability and vibrancy of our commercial district. We need to forge a working, participatory partnership with our businesses to encourage their active involvement and strengthen the local economy.

I believe you deserve a board of commissioners that will:

• Deliver logical, common-sense responses to issues that affect every one of us – unlike the recently ill-conceived trash ordinance that needs to be revisited
• Address a problem directly rather than respond by legislating to the lowest common denominator – adversely impacting everyone – rather than the few who are the problem
• Make good on the promises made to you when they run for office.

I believe that my background as a business executive, lawyer and former bank regulator prepared me to bring to the board a businesslike and financial perspective as well as a fresh and logical viewpoint. I believe I can deliver on common-sense and thoughtful approaches to our issues – efficiently and with clarity of purpose.

I want to build a better and more harmonious Rehoboth Beach community for all of our citizens. With your help and your support, we can do this together. Please vote for me Saturday, Aug. 13, for a better future. Contact me at perry4rehoboth@gmail.com or go to perry4rehoboth.com where I will post additional positions and respond to your questions during the campaign.

Richard Perry
candidate
Rehoboth Beach commissioner