Lewes residents have an important choice to make this Saturday in our Lewes City Council election. I strongly believe Councilman Rob Morgan has earned re-election through his service to City of Lewes residents, experience, intelligence, transparency and due diligence in all subjects that come before council. Rob has consistently sided on behalf of the residents of Lewes, especially in development issues. Rob was the sole voice of dissent in questioning the annexation of the Brittingham Parcel on New Road, as he voiced concerns about the annexation zones, pushed forward by ex-council members, that would permit high-density townhomes on the banks of Canary Creek.
Rob shared the concerns of many constituents, which is what a good councilperson should do. They are elected to represent the interests of all constituents, not just land owners and developers. The fate of this parcel is still undecided, as final approval will need to return to council again.
Experience is a topic that needs to be discussed in this race. Last July, two newcomers, Tim Ritzert and Andrew Williams, defeated two incumbents, and added fresh faces and ideas to our council. Councilperson Bonnie Osler, who is also deputy mayor, is stepping down after many years of service. If Rob Morgan is not re-elected, our two senior councilmen will have less than a year on the job. There are two seats to fill this election, so another new councilperson will be elected. While our city may be small, we have many complex issues, mostly arising from our continued growth, that require a deep understanding of our city codes and governance. We have issues ranging from the BPW to infrastructure to examination of present codes to development applications encroaching closer and closer to the Great Marsh. This is not a time to start from scratch.
We live is a time where incumbency isn’t popular and can be more of a hindrance than an aid in re-election. City residents would make a huge mistake to lose Rob because of his service and experience, as we need it desperately. I attend many meetings. Yes, Rob Morgan questions. He can slow down the process with his questioning and his deep exploration of the issues. However, he is as likely to question financial expenditures, such as the police budget, as he is to question development plans or any other proposals. In doing this, he represents all of our interests, and I want this questioning to continue. Due diligence is more important than passing things through quickly, and we can depend on Rob to scrutinize council issues with an eagle eye, as well as a depth and breadth of experience. Please let him continue to serve the City of Lewes. He has more than earned reelection.
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