The following letter was sent to the Rehoboth Beach Board of Commissioners, with a copy submitted to the Cape Gazette for publication.
We are writing to express specific interest in the current debate over city or county operation of Rehoboth’s newly upgraded sewer system, and general concern about the seeming dissonance in the commission’s approach to different policies, issues, and planning.
On the issue of sewer system operation, we strongly oppose gifting the county with a multimillion-dollar system that should continue to be owned and managed by the city. The system is an asset that can pay for itself from revenue generated as nearby county demand increases in the future. We understand that debt management and ongoing maintenance will require adjustment of city rates to residents, but believe that is a better alternative, just as the ocean outfall is proving to be.
The dissonance issue is illustrated by the open and transparent way that new parking fees were handled, versus the recent executive sessions and limitations imposed on public input surrounding the sewer system plans. We appreciate that consideration of a transfer to the county has been put on hold in favor of a committee to develop new sewer rate proposals. However, formation and direction of the committee appears to have happened with limited input. To assure transparency of the rates proposal process, we hope the committee’s deliberations and the positions of its members will be reported as it moves forward.
On the issue of new sewer rates, we strongly oppose a completely flat-rate approach. Analysis of water/sewer usage shows huge differences among commercial, full-, and part-time property owners. We support some combination of a sewer system access charge and charges based on water use.
Full and purposeful public input as city proposals are developed, adjusted and finalized is essential.
Without this, there will be questions about hidden agendas and the integrity of the process.
John and Susan Roehmer
Rehoboth Beach
Oakton, Va.
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