I have been a full-time resident in Rehoboth Beach for the past 15 years. I am founder and manager of the Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market which is now in its 12th year.
I was a Rehoboth Beach planning commissioner in 2006 and a Rehoboth Beach city commissioner from 2007-13 and a former Main Street board member.
As a board member of the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal Improvement Association, I am currently pursuing funding from the State of Delaware for the construction of a dock in Grove Park. Most recently, I was appointed by Speaker of the House Pete Schwartzkopf as his representative on the board of directors of the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays.
I am running for office because I feel I can contribute to making our city better. I have a proven track record of successfully tackling a variety of issues over the years, and after a five-year break, I feel that I am uniquely positioned to address some of the issues that confront our city. Specifically:
• Implement creative solutions for addressing parking for all citizens. Promote a system that provides a multilevel approach.
• Create a plan that will provide an approach that will make safety paramount for pedestrians and bicyclists.
• Promote a sensible tree ordinance that preserves our canopy yet provides for the right tree in the right place.
• Provide an environment to help our businesses thrive. We want them to be successful.
• Promote a plan to beautify and enhance our public parks and common public areas.
I see the increased traffic coming into town as one of the biggest issues for residents and visitors. We need a multifaceted approach to solve this problem. First, I favor an approach that promotes other modes of transportation.
A bicycle/pedestrian bridge across Route 1 would be a safer answer than the current red-light crossings. A bike share station at the Park and Ride would give visitors another option for coming into town.
I also believe that we need to come up with a new approach to parking permits. Additionally, we should investigate a public/private partnership for a parking garage outside of town with free transportation into town. Good relationships with state, county and local officials will be key to the implementation of a successful plan, and over the years I have developed those relationships.
I consider myself uniquely to be the "Community Candidate." My focus has always been to create an environment that would bring the community together. The Farmers Market is one example of creating a positive environment for our community.
I consider myself to be a good listener and a good mediator. So, let's work together and not against each other. I believe all our property owners and residents care deeply about our city, and we must provide an environment that allows everyone to participate.
Please see my website at www.coluzziforcommissioner.com or feel free to email me at pat@patcoluzzi.com, call me at 302-249-7878.
Stop by and see me on any Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. on my front porch at 41 Sussex St. to discuss your concerns.
Pat Coluzzi
candidate, Rehoboth Beach commissioner
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