Lewes annexes Hoornkill Avenue properties

“Welcome to Lewes.” That was the greeting from Mayor Amy Marasco moments after council voted unanimously to annex 12 properties on Hoornkill Avenue Nov. 10.

The dozen homeowners asked for the annexation so they could replace their failing septic systems with city water and sewer. They will also receive trash collection and police services.

Lewes Councilman Joe Elder chaired the annexation committee. He said the revenue streams will more than cover the expenses of adding the residents to city services.

“We think adding these services will really enhance the value of your homes,” Elder told the residents who came to council chambers to celebrate the vote.

Elder said decommissioning the septic systems will protect the Great Marsh from environmental damage. And expanding the city’s borders will increase the tax base.

He said the only disadvantage to annexation is the added workload for city staff, which he called minimal.

Councilman Tim Ritzert said he was concerned that a drainage ditch along the street might require maintenance and might not be sufficient in the future.

Clare Johnson and her husband Rudy have lived on Hoornkill for 46 years. They said annexation is a big change for their little street.

“We’re ecstatic,” Clare said. “If nothing else, because of the septic systems. But, it’ll be better all around.”

But, she said, neighbors are still concerned about flooding.

“It’s worse for the people on the side with the Great Marsh,” she said. “The water comes up. One lady had water up to her patio. The water level has been coming up more because of [Fisher’s Cove], the development behind us.”

The Lewes Board of Public Works will work with George, Miles & Buhr engineers to install utilities at the 12 properties.