People who live in the city of Rehoboth Beach feel very strongly about the town. As I do. Most of us choose to live and/or own property here because we love it, the trees, the beach, the boardwalk, the walkability, the downtown, the people. Typically, where we live or lived prior to Rehoboth was because our jobs were there. We chose Rehoboth Beach because that is where we want to be.
But feeling strongly about the town does not excuse the total lack of civility that I see recently. It seemed to begin with the referendum about pools and house size. I've been around Rehoboth a long time, through a lot of controversy, and I'd never seen a public hearing like that one. It was frightening. It was rude. It was uncivil. I don't know why the ugliness appeared at that time, and I thought that the angry name-calling was over. But it has reared up again.
This is America, folks. We have peaceful elections and a peaceful transition after each election. Our candidates don't always win, but we don't pack our bags and leave. We work together. We don't send anonymous letters, or put fake news on social media. Or at least that is the way it used to be in Rehoboth Beach. What is happening here?
During the last election, I supported Sam Cooper. I thought he had done an excellent job as mayor, and deserved to see the completion of the city hall and ocean outfall. But the voters disagreed with me and elected Paul Kuhns. Paul also cares deeply about Rehoboth, and I will continue to work with him as he moves forward in his role.
Gary Glass is an honorable and ethical person and an excellent candidate, who also cares deeply about Rehoboth. As does Pat Coluzzi, who I know, and I'm sure Richard Byrne does too. All three candidates have come out publicly against LLC voting, as have a majority of sitting commissioners. It's a non-issue in this election. Why do some continue to raise it? All three candidates are more than aware of the issues in the neighborhoods with overlarge rental properties. These are complex issues that will take thoughtful people working on them to preserve the community we love and protect those who live here and tenants who rent here.
I have never heard a single candidate, including Gary, indicate that we should eliminate rental properties. But we do need to fix the problems.
We are fortunate to have them all running for commissioner. But the despicable practice of sending anonymous accusatory letters against a particular candidate sounds more like what we hear at the national level - not in Rehoboth Beach.
I support Gary Glass. I'm not anonymous about it. His sign is displayed in our front yard. Gary's background in finance, accounting, and capital planning will be a huge asset to our city, as will his judgment and thoughtfulness on the issues we face. He is not "aligned" with anyone and will work well with our current elected officials and whomever wins the other open seat. And like most of us, once the election is over, no matter who wins, I hope we will all work together in a civil manner to preserve and maintain our unique community as a place for us to live our lives and for our families to enjoy for years to come.
Jan Konesey
Rehoboth Beach
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