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Becker is a superior elected official

May 9, 2022

I am writing to state my support for the re-election of Ted Becker as mayor of Lewes.

I could be considered a newcomer to Lewes, having moved here in 2011. I chose Lewes for the same reasons most of you came: the charm, the vitality, the quality of life, and the informed and engaged community.

Before buying a home in Lewes, I spent the majority of my life working in government and thereafter working with elected and appointed government officials. I learned a lot in my professional career about the skill and dedication that make for an effective elected official. 

Being a small-town mayor is one of the most challenging positions an elected official can hold. Mayors are 24/7, and in a town like Lewes, they must be available and ready to respond to countless issues, large and small. 

I saw firsthand how Ted worked when I purchased my house on Mulberry Street, formerly owned by Suzy and George Cleaver. The house was in rough shape, and as I began my renovation, the building inspector determined that I could demolish the existing structure and build a new home. I had never met Ted Becker, who at that time was a member of council, but he reached out through a former colleague asking if I would meet. 

We met at the Cafe Azafran coffee shop and Ted methodically laid out the reasons why I should not demolish the house. He made a careful case to preserve/reconstruct the façade and laid out the architectural and historical elements that added to the period townscape of Lewes. He did not try to pressure me, but made a persuasive case by stating, “Historical towns and period properties embodying that history are not lost in one major act of demolition; they are lost one house at a time, until they are all gone.” He strongly urged me to help preserve the historical fabric of Lewes by retaining the façade and design elements of my house. He made a winning argument, and we made a new plan that cost more and took longer, but it preserved the street view and character of the house.

I am glad I listened to Ted. I was impressed with his unwavering commitment to Lewes and the preservation of its historical fabric, and his equal commitment to the preservation of our core values. I have gotten to know Ted much better since that initial meeting, giving me more opportunities to observe his dedication and convictions. My background has enabled me to observe great and not-so-great leaders and elected officials. Ted Becker not only meets, but surpasses any definition of effective, transparent and caring governance. Lewes is lucky to have a mayor of such experience and character and integrity.

I am voting to re-elect Ted Becker for mayor. I urge your consideration and your vote for him Saturday, May 14.

Steve Elmendorf
Lewes

 

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