We must re-elect Sam Cooper. Sam's opponent is woefully inadequate to the task, as proven by his negative and backward-looking election pronouncements and apparent lack of interest in the city's affairs over the past 10 years he has resided here. Oh, wait - he became interested briefly three years ago when he first ran for mayor and was defeated decisively. He also became interested in the past few months when he decided to run again, following an interim period of zero interest, zero involvement.

As a contrast, Mayor Cooper has been deeply involved and is a proven, knowledgeable and accomplished leader. He cherishes Rehoboth Beach and is full-time on the job. During his years as mayor, the city has never operated at a deficit. Sam has secured over $35 million in grant funding to accomplish critically important projects such as the Rehoboth Avenue Streetscape, the Boardwalk replacement, and beach replacement. Thanks to Sam and his commissioner colleagues, and guided by thoughtfully constructed comprehensive development plan, our city is as close to perfect as possible.

Now, the city is faced with two expensive but mandatory projects - the ocean outfall solution to our wastewater problem and the new City Hall solution to the obsolete facilities that now accommodate city offices, including our crucial police department and 911 Center. Sam Cooper is the only mayoral candidate who can construct a practical financing package for these projects that will minimize the tax burden on the citizens of Rehoboth Beach. He has well established contacts with state and federal officials as well as creative ideas for packaging a combination of grants, bonds, and other financing mechanisms to accomplish these projects and keep the city on solid financial footing.

Sam Cooper has been an outstanding steward of our fine city. Let's keep him in the job to ensure our future is as bright as our past. Vote Sam Cooper August 9.

James E. Ellison
Rehoboth Beach