News Briefs 07/10/20

Milton pantry to hold July 13 distribution

Milton Community Food Pantry will hold an emergency distribution from 10 a.m. to noon, Monday, July 13, at the Magnolia Street parking lot. Those wishing to get a food box must present a Delaware driver’s license or proof of residence and verbal proof of income.

The boxes are provided by an emergency aid program from the U.S. Department of Agriculture that requires aid recipients to meet certain income qualifications.

Rehoboth commissioner meeting times changed

For the second time in less than two years, commissioners have changed the time for their monthly meeting. Beginning in July, the monthly commissioner meetings, which take place the third Friday of every month, will begin at 2 p.m.

The meeting time was changed from 7 p.m. to 3 p.m. in November 2018. During their meeting in June, commissioners discussed moving the meeting time to 10 a.m., but ultimately that didn’t happen after some of the commissioners expressed concern about property and business owners not being able to attend a public hearing at that time of day. Commissioner workshops remain the same – 9 a.m. on the first Monday of each month.

Rehoboth Beach real estate tax rate set

After being raised by 50 percent last year, from $.04 to $.06 for every $100 of assessed value, the city’s property tax rate will remain flat this year. During the June 19 meeting, commissioners unanimously approved a property tax rate of $.06.

Special Rehoboth meeting set July 14

Rehoboth Beach has scheduled a special virtual commissioner meeting for 3 p.m., Tuesday, July 14. The agenda calls for further discussion on a comprehensive action plan for reopening the city from restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Members of the public will be allowed to participate in the special meeting with limited access. Those who wish to speak must preregister with Ann Womack, city secretary, at awomack@cityofrehoboth.com at least two full business days prior to the meeting.

Citizen comment will be administered by a moderator. Speaking is not allowed until called upon. Comments can be emailed to Womack at least two full business days prior to the meeting.

Lewes Mayor and City Council meet July 13

Lewes Mayor and City Council will hold its regular monthly meeting virtually at 6:30 p.m., Monday, July 13. The group will reconsider the recently passed ordinance requiring face coverings in the downtown area, and discuss other topics related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Officials will consider a rezoning request to change city-owned property on Milford Avenue from R-3 to open space. Council will make a recommendation to the Department of Transportation regarding the proposal to add steel plates to the center of travel lanes on the Savannah Road drawbridge for bicyclists to use. They will also discuss the New Road Master Plan, transitioning the Historic Lewes Byways Committee to an independent commission, allocating time for tennis and pickleball on the Canalfront Courts, and a request to install No Diving signs at Lewes Beach access points. A link to the meeting can be found at lewes.civicweb.net. 

Dewey commissioners recommend alderman

Dewey Beach commissioners voted unanimously June 30 to recommend the nomination of Linda Madrid for a two-year term as alderman. Madrid has served as assistant alderman since 2013. The nomination will be submitted for approval by the governor and Senate.