I saw on the news this morning that Rehoboth Beach government is voting on whether to fine guests of the town for feeding seagulls on the Boardwalk. Is that really necessary?
Does sending out part-time summer law enforcement to write tickets on the Boardwalk sound like an inviting way to treat guests of Rehoboth, especially following a very violent stabbing on the Boardwalk last summer? Priorities. What really should law enforcement be watching out for?
Bird-feeding fines will only draw very negative attention. And after last year’s, “you’ve got three hours on the parking meter issue”... let’s face it, it takes one hour just to get the kids and grandparents and cousins, etc. out of the car, to the beach, find a spot and set up. Nothing says we don’t want you around - more like you better “pay up, buy stuff and get out” than a three-hour limit on the meter.
What town that depends on visitors’ dollars to survive does that... anywhere? So, does piling on a fine for feeding seagulls sound all that practical, really?
Rehoboth Beach is (seeming to be getting away from being) a welcoming, friendly community. Just look at all the empty parking spaces during the week in the summer months. The empty storefronts, some more than a couple years vacant, should really be our first tip-off that three-hour parking limits are not a sound strategy to welcome guests to our town. Don’t add to that negative message by adding bird-feeding fines as well.
So please, think. Educate, educate, educate! Post signage similar to those around the ponds in Rehoboth that state, “Keep wildlife wild. Don’t feed the wildlife.” Train the summer law enforcement on how to approach guests who are feeding the seagulls on why it’s hurtful for the birds and therefore not allowed. Stop sending the message to guests of Rehoboth Beach, “We don’t want you. We want only your money.”
A little due diligence can go a long way. Before you make major changes to the way our little town operates, study what other towns have done, what works and why.
I have a feeling I already know which way you’re all going to vote on this issue. Please, once you do vote, post the decision as well as your reasons for it on the City of Rehoboth Beach website so we, as citizens as well as potential guests to Rehoboth, can understand your reasons for and research done in deciding the matter.
C. Gleed
Rehoboth Beach
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