Lewes city planner leaving to run nonprofit

Lewes city planner Janelle Cornwell has helped guide city officials through its most challenging issues over the past six years, including the annexation of Donovan-Smith and the approval of major subdivisions.

Now, Cornwell is leaving to take on a new challenge as executive director of the Delaware League of Local Governments.

“I’ll be working with the board to fulfill their mission to support local governments across the state,” Cornwell said.

Cornwell came to Lewes in February 2020, just weeks before life went into lockdown during the pandemic. She is only the second city planner Lewes has had.

Cornwell had previously served as director of the Sussex County Planning & Zoning Department.

Mayor Amy Marasco read a proclamation at the Dec. 8 mayor and city council meeting honoring Cornwell for her lasting impact on Lewes.

“Janelle played a vital role in maintaining and interpreting the city’s comprehensive plan, zoning ordinances, subdivision and land code. She provided critical guidance to mayor and council and the planning commission as Lewes navigated the challenges of increased development in our region,” the proclamation read, in part.

Council members echoed that sentiment, thanking her for bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the job.

Marasco also pointed to Cornwell’s leadership in getting the environmental footprint tapestry project done. The tapestry, made of 500 felt footprints with messages from young people about the environment, hangs in council chambers. The mayor also said she will miss Cornwell’s “really good cookies.”

Cornwell said her favorite part of the job was getting to know and help people and solve problems. She said the city’s biggest planning challenge ahead will be forming its new comprehensive plan by 2027.

“The comp plan is, ‘What do you want the town to look like when it grows up?’ It’s where the city sees itself in 20 to 30 years, because it is still evolving,” Cornwell said.

Cornwell said she is leaving the city in a better place than when she arrived.

“During my tenure, the city has achieved a lot, not because of me, but because it has taken on a lot and done a lot,” she said.

Cornwall’s last day is Dec. 12, although Marasco said she will remain on call for a short time to answer any questions council might have.

The city has listed city planner position on its website

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