Trees, renters spark debate at Henlopen Acres quarterly meeting

The high number of people using rental properties in Henlopen Acres sparked discussion at the July 12 quarterly Henlopen Acres Town Council meeting.

Mayor Joni Reich said she has received complaints from residents that there are too many renters coming and going during the summer season. After discussion, council generally agreed to put this on the upcoming agenda for the Friday, Sept. 6 meeting to hear public input on the idea to limit the number of different renters at each rental property.

Also drawing discussion was the tree ordinance. Because new homes are now constantly under construction, residents are concerned about the large number of trees that have been removed. The town has a right-of-way along streets; trees inside that area cannot be removed without an extensive process, including a $500 fee, Reich said. But beyond that, said tree committee Chairman John Scheurer, “We want to try to keep our canopy we have here.” 

While construction companies have avoided tearing down trees on public property, some are unaware of a law against damaging trees. Crews have placed large equipment such as dumpsters, trucks and cranes too close to large trees, which can cause devastating damage, Scheurer said. Council voted unanimously to provide greater protection for town trees. 

Council discussed requiring anyone who takes down a tree to replace that tree and plant a new one.  This idea is to promote the importance of trees in the town, Mayor Joni Reich said.

The council also decided to hold a public hearing later in the year to make clear the difference between trees on private property and those owned by the town.

Treasurer Tim Hidell said town revenue is now about $14,000 over the budget and the operating profit is up $16,000. Hidell said the town is in no debt, and he would like to use some of the funds to put in crosswalks on Ocean Drive between the neighborhood and the Beach Club, pending further discussions with Delaware Department of Transportation.

The last thing brought up at the meeting was next year the town would be turning 50 years old and a celebration committee needed to be appointed in the near future to begin planning.

The following nominees were approved:

Board of elections - Bruce Moore, Tiffany Derrickson, Sallie Jones

Election officers - Barbara Shortley, Elinor Boyce, Betsy Wilgis

Audit committee - Jeffrey Jacobs, Thomas Rinker, Natalie McGregor

Board of adjustment - Leigh Jamison, Norma Lee Derrickson.