All local elections are important. They are our chance to set a course for our future, to help our city meet the vision we have for it. But this Rehoboth Beach election is especially crucial.

Our comprehensive development plan, the blueprint for land use and smart growth, is being revised by the planning commission and city commission.

As we make long-range plans, we must take steps to recover from the economic impact of COVID-19, and still retain our character and charm. With that in mind, the CDP must have significant public input and participation.

No one understands this better than Patrick Gossett, and no one will fight harder to assure that Rehoboth Beach continues to be the place we love. He designed and implemented the successful public participation programs for our previous CDPs and is committed to making our voices heard.

I served with Patrick on the Rehoboth Beach City Commission for several years, and know firsthand that he is a man who looks forward, not back.

No one will work harder with his colleagues, and most importantly with all of us, the citizens, to help us through these difficult times.

Having been elected by our citizens three times to the city commission, Patrick brings with him a deep knowledge that will allow him to start working for us on his first day as a re-elected commissioner.

We need city commissioners to help lead our city who are committed, smart, knowledgeable, and open-minded. That describes Patrick Gossett perfectly. I urge everyone to join me in voting for Patrick Gossett for city commission.