Cutting red tape, not corners

Government is often accused of moving too slowly, but recent actions by state and federal officials show that progress is possible when leaders are willing to confront bureaucracy without abandoning oversight. Efforts now underway to streamline permitting for key infrastructure projects deserve support, especially in a growing region where delays can stall housing, utilities and economic development.

In late February, Gov. Matt Meyer signed an executive order creating a permitting accelerator intended to coordinate agencies, set timelines and reduce unnecessary delays for priority projects such as housing, energy, broadband and water infrastructure. The goal is not to eliminate environmental or safety protections, but to ensure reviews happen efficiently and transparently instead of dragging on.

At the federal level, similar concerns have been raised about red tape slowing projects overseen by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, where lengthy reviews can add years to work involving waterways, flood control and coastal protection. When projects that have already been studied extensively still face repeated procedural hurdles, taxpayers end up paying more while communities wait longer for needed improvements. Streamlining these processes, while maintaining strong environmental standards, is good government.

Importantly, faster approvals should not mean weaker oversight, and recent events in Sussex County show why balance matters. The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control recently cited the Allen Harim plant in Harbeson for exceeding nitrogen discharge limits, while Mountaire received a temporary emergency variance related to wastewater storage and spray irrigation. These situations highlight why certain projects – particularly those with a history of environmental compliance issues – should not be rushed through the system.

That distinction makes the current approach encouraging. By focusing on housing, infrastructure and other broadly beneficial projects, while leaving stricter review in place where it is clearly warranted, officials are showing that efficiency and accountability can coexist.

Cutting red tape should never mean cutting corners. But when government finds ways to move essential projects forward without sacrificing safeguards, taxpayers and the environment both benefit.