I’ve been coming to Rehoboth for decades and one of the things I love about this town is the number of friends from all over the place that I’ve had a chance to make. People in public-sector service; people who’ve held jobs of distinction in business, law and government; people who’ve led organizations; and people who’ve contributed greatly to their communities. Among these people I count as friends is Suzanne Goode, a candidate for Rehoboth Beach’s city commission. In this town of 1,500 people, it is impressive to see a candidate like Suzanne, who is challenging the status quo and seeking office because she cares about the people and community here. Suzanne has over the years used her full-time residency to actively engage in issues before Rehoboth’s local government, asking the questions and seeking information on proposals that lack transparency, clarity and for which an open, public discussion is required. These critical issues affect all who live in and regularly visit Rehoboth. We see her doing this and Rehoboth is better for it.
Most recently, as the commission passed decisions on significant tax and fee increases, while also illegally denying public input and consideration before passing these, Suzanne stands alone among the candidates as someone who did something to put action to her commitment for others. A lot of other people here talk the talk, and yet don’t actually engage and push for more transparency and information on how these proposals affect the community. Suzanne has been actively engaged at numerous public hearings and promoted engagement by others. However, a letter to the editor earlier this week appeared to suggest that Suzanne’s engagement and questions seeking more information on controversial topics is a negative trait and that Suzanne should just shut up and go home (and probably ask her husband how she should vote). Seriously, are we in the 1920s or 2020s?
I have great respect for anyone who wishes to enter the political fray and help shape, with the community’s input, the future of the city where they live. I value Suzanne’s confidence and dedication to teasing out the alternatives, details and impacts that are so important to building understanding of how, if passed, proposals will affect the community. I find Suzanne Goode inspiring in her campaign, knocking on every door in Rehoboth and seeking to engage everyone, not just a limited few. It’s time for a Rehoboth that is truly inclusive of all, including those with thoughts and approaches that may challenge some. We need Suzanne’s talents to ensure that Rehoboth has a bright future, where issues are publicly discussed, and closed-door decision making is a thing of the past.
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