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Our choices for the Dewey election

September 18, 2020

Dewey Beach voters will go to the polls Saturday, Sept. 26, to select which two of three candidates they think will best protect, enhance and improve the Dewey Beach Way of Life. Incumbents David Moskowitz and Gary Persinger each want to serve another two-year term while challenger Bill Stevens would like to win a first term.

The Cape Gazette editorial board endorses Persinger and Stevens as the candidates most likely to get past infighting, guide the important task of selecting a new town manager, and bring greater unity to the commission.

In office since 2016, Persinger is a calming, introspective commissioner who seeks balance and logical solutions for town problems through careful consideration of all angles. He is thorough and honest, and cooperative with other commissioners. He brings expertise to a variety of town committees, and was particularly helpful in going through the entire charter to revise and update it. Persinger expects accountability, aims for better communications with residents, consistently seeks public input from residents on issues, and encourages residents to get involved with town committees.

Stevens lost in his first bid for the Dewey commission two years ago and realized he needed more experience in Dewey government. Since that time he has served on the investment and audit committees, and most recently has served as chairman of the important budget and finance committee. That has given him valuable insight. In his personal business, Stevens has served as chief financial officer for a diversified insurance company where he has worked constructively with others to build cohesive teams. His strong financial skills and background would be of considerable value as the town navigates through the never-ending dance of balancing revenues and expenses.

Moskowitz has contributed a lot of time and effort to Dewey and has many good ideas, but a tendency toward divisiveness keeps him from accomplishing what he otherwise might.

We would expect greater harmony on the Dewey Beach Town Council with Persinger and Stevens in the two available seats.  

  • Editorials are considered and written by Cape Gazette Editorial Board members, including Publisher Chris Rausch, Editor Jen Ellingsworth, News Editor Nick Roth and reporters Ron MacArthur and Chris Flood. 

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