Isn’t it ironic? In the same edition of the Cape Gazette there is a letter from Rehoboth Beach City Manager Taylour Tedder saying, “We encourage everyone to show some extra love to the shops, restaurants and small businesses that make Rehoboth Beach so special year-round,” just a few pages later Chis Flood reports on proposed increases to business licenses and fees being considered during a budget meeting Feb 20.
Representatives of two business associations voiced their concerns, one noting that, “At a time when long-standing dining establishments have already begun a migration toward the Route 1 corridor due to increasing rents and parking constraints, it doesn’t seem prudent that the City of Rehoboth Beach would add another factor to tip the scale when owners are deciding where to locate their establishments.” I can personally attest to that thought; my wife and I ate breakfast Saturday at a downtown eatery that was only sparsely patronized.
But more importantly – and turning to the city manager’s word – where’s the love? Upping the annual fee to $1,000 is a 54% increase! There’s no love there! I sympathize with the commissioners; the budget process can be difficult. But that’s why we hired Tededer; that’s why we pay him the big bucks! And don’t take it out on me and the rest of the city property owners! Go back to the city staff whiz kids; get creative.
Drawing on another term used by the city manager, businesses should be encouraged, not discouraged, to do business here. The association rep nailed it: don’t make decisions that tip the scale. And in another quoted reference, I’ll draw on Beatle John Lennon who said it best, “Dear Prudence, won't you open up your eyes?”
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