Lee seeking another term on Lewes BPW

Pres Lee is seeking a second term on Lewes Board of Public Works. He filed his application on Feb. 1, the first day possible.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the past two years on the board and feel that I have made a significant impact on its operation. I think my experience as a registered professional engineer has significantly improved the public works project administration, design and construction review capabilities of the organization,” Lee said.

Lee, 67, is board secretary and is primarily responsible for wastewater, potable water and stormwater facilities.

Lee represented the board on the city’s streets committee during Bay Avenue restoration design and construction. He said he contributed in making critical decisions about drainage, directional drilling for water mains and insertion of a liner into existing sewer lines to avoid major excavation.

“I have worked closely with our outstanding general manager, Darrin Gordon, on numerous projects important to our city and our customers,” he said.

He reviewed bidding documents and construction drawings for the board’s new water plant at the city’s wellfield adjacent to Cape Henlopen High School. Lee is assisting Gordon with planning and design of the proposed water main to run underneath the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal; a citywide stormwater system inventory; and a citywide sewer master plan.

“I’ve also been asked by the board to assist the general manager in BPW’s coordination with Chesapeake Utilities’ proposed gas service to residential customers,” Lee said.

During his time on the board, he said, the panel reduced electric rates 7.6 percent, cancelled previously approved water and sewer rate increases and reduced ready-to-serve and irrigation meter installation charges.

“We’ve also voted to purchase our wholesale electric through the Delaware Municipal Electric Corporation instead of purchasing it directly, assuring customers lower electric rates for years to come. The BPW presently has one of the lowest electric rates in the state,” he said.

An important goal, Lee said, is to assist in developing a well run, stormwater management utility equivalent to the board’s other services.

“Stormwater management regulations and sea-level rise will have a major impact on stormwater management in future years,” he said.

Lee and wife Linda have owned homes in Lewes since 1988. They have been fulltime residents for more than a decade.

To run in the Saturday, May 14 annual municipal election, candidates must file by 4:30 p.m., Thursday, April 4. For additional voter and candidate information, visit City Hall or go to www.ci.lewes.de.