Lewes BOA member explains recusal

I want to correct the inaccuracies and misconceptions in the Oct. 1 letter from Alicia Jones. First, my name is William Sharkey, not Richard Sharkey. Second, as a member of the BOA, I recused myself from voting on the placement of the net reel as soon as I learned that the net reel case would come before us. The reason for my recusal was that, as a resident of Shipcarpenter Square, I sent a letter earlier to the homeowners’ association in support of keeping the net reel on the grounds of the Lewes Historical Society. I am deeply committed to preserving Lewes’ history, including the important role the Black population has played in our history. 

In 1995, I joined the Lewes Historical Society and began docenting at the Hiram Burton House. Here, I learned about the origins of the Burton subdivision. I was invited to join the LHS Board of Trustees in 1997, and served until 2003. I continued my work as a docent, moving to the Cannonball House, an interesting museum where I loved showing visitors its treasures. Over the years I volunteered at antique shows, craft fairs, sea glass festivals, and as docent on many Christmas House Tours. My own house was on the tour in 1997.

LHS is lucky to have a continuous stream of new volunteers, excited about becoming part of this great team. Getting involved in other activities, I got less involved in LHS operations. My last work for the program was as a member of the team to raise money for the new Lewes History Museum on Adams Avenue. This project has allowed the LHS to do many things better, one of which is to portray more fully and accurately Black life in Lewes.

As to the BOA, recusal is a way of life. I remember one day in the past couple of years when we had two matters to consider. The first was setback issues related to construction at St. Peter’s Church. BOA member Denise Emery recused herself because, as a church member, she could not be seen as objective. Next was a review of outside signage at Beebe Medical Center. Our former chair, Brook Hedge, is not only a retired judge, she is a fine photographer. Because Beebe had bought some of her work, Brook recused herself, fearing that this limited commercial relationship would taint the proceeding.

When I was first appointed to the BOA, a case involving some Beebe construction came before us.  One of my lunch pals was serving on a Beebe subcommittee that oversaw the project and he would discuss it at lunch. I told Brook. I was recused.

I recused myself as soon as I learned that the net reel case would come before us. My recusal was based on my long relationship with LHS. Moreover, soon after the reel was erected, the then president of our HOA sent around an email stating that people were upset about it and wanted to send a petition to the city objecting to it. I replied that I was really happy when I saw it for the historical gem that it was. I don’t know if others took the same side. Not having unanimous support, the petition was not sent. Prior to the historic preservation architectural review commission meeting, the city asked for public input, and I submitted a letter of support.

Immediately, I was off distribution of material related to the case. The case was rescheduled after some time. When I got info on the schedule, I reminded Brook of my status. She thanked me and I have not seen any correspondence since.

Facts matter.