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Mayor Cooper needs to make a phone call

July 10, 2014

A recent News Journal article on Rehoboth Beach’s proposed ocean outfall project clearly quotes DNREC officials who think that other alternatives need to be reviewed. Colin O’Mara, who recently left his position, was quoted as saying “I’m encouraging some additional review.” O’Mara said that he also “has concerns about the habitat” for fish and ocean animals surrounding any potential outfall.

I would suggest that the mayor of Rehoboth Beach and city commissioners set up a meeting with DNREC to discuss options. Just because this project needs new discussion does not mean that anyone has failed. There are many citizens who own property in Rehoboth who were not around 10 years ago. Rehoboth Beach has 3,000-plus property owners. Many things have changed in 10 years - technology, the environment, etc. The voices of only 100 clearly cannot speak for all citizens. Some residents in Rehoboth and Mayor Cooper feel that the city should move ahead with no discussion. This wastewater problem will affect our ocean for years to come. Wouldn’t it be better to re-evaluate this project and work with DNREC, come up with a decision and work to get the treated wastewater out of the canal?

The mayor of Rehoboth should not be waiting on a phone call from DNREC. A leader would work with DNREC to orchestrate a solution. Mayor Cooper needs to make a phone call!

Lastly, The News Journal article fails to talk about a land-based spray irrigation approach similar to the system that has been used by the town of Middletown successfully for the last 10 years. Ed Kee, secretary of Agriculture, recently told me, “Spray Irrigation is a practical approach to recycling water and the nutrients in the water.” Haven’t we learned that recycling is a smart approach for our precious resources? If so, why is wastewater any different?

The mayor of Rehoboth Beach and city commissioners need to take a field trip to Middletown and get the tour. The mayor of Middletown would welcome the opportunity.

As mayor of Rehoboth Beach, I would not be sitting waiting for months for someone to call me. A leader needs to be proactive.

Thomas McGlone
Candidate for mayor
Rehoboth Beach

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