Persinger enters Dewey commissioner race

Two-term incumbent Commissioner Gary Persinger has filed to run in Dewey Beach’s municipal election, set for Saturday, Sept. 26.

Persinger, who has owned property in Dewey Beach for more than 30 years, filed as a nonresident commissioner candidate Aug. 5.

“We are in the midst of some very difficult times with a summer season that has challenged our resources, revenue streams and the well-being of our businesses and property owners,” Persinger said. “We will be faced with decisions about finances and town operations that affect the economic health of the town and its continued growth.

“Not the least of the issues we face is the hiring of a new town manager who is ready to provide effective leadership for town operations,” Persinger continued. “I believe I can contribute positively to these decisions and hope that the voters will agree.”

Persinger was the top vote-getter when he was first elected in 2016; in his successful 2018 reelection bid, he also secured the most votes of all candidates. He serves as commissioner liaison to the audit, budget and finance, comprehensive development plan, and charter and code review ad hoc committees.

In addition to the council seat held by Persinger, Commissioner David Moskowitz’s term also expires in September. Dewey Beach Town Hall officials stated Moskowitz had not filed election paperwork by the Cape Gazette’s press deadline; he could not be reached for comment.

Peter Briccotto, who announced his intention to run on July 22 and held a campaign fundraiser Aug. 9 that brought in more than $3,300, had also not filed election paperwork by the Cape Gazette’s press deadline, Dewey Beach Town Hall officials said. Briccotto could not be reached for comment.

The deadline for candidate filing and voter registration is 5 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 27. Eligible voters may vote by absentee ballot or in person. 

The election will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 26, in the Dewey Beach Lifesaving Station, 1 Dagsworthy Ave. For more information, call Town Hall at 302-227-6363.