Becker, Osler win Lewes City Council seats

Lewes voters returned a four-term city councilman to office and elected a first-time candidate to serve on the panel. Incumbent Ted Becker and newcomer Bonnie Osler outdistanced three opponents in the May 12 election.

Asked to what they attributed their wins, Becker said, “I think eight years of hard work counted a great deal.”

Osler said simply “The people of Lewes.”

Becker, 62, is managing partner of Lewes-based Becker Stewart Properties. Osler, 54, is a retired attorney who served as Transportation Security Administration deputy council for litigation.

Voter turnout was heavy. Just over 82 percent of the city’s 1,125 registered voters came to the polls, election judge Joan Reader said.

"Democracy is alive and well in Lewes," Osler said.

Although no one came forward to challenge Lewes Mayor Jim Ford whose seat was open this year, Reader said the Department of Elections advised her to officially declare him winner.

Ford said he believes the strong support for Becker shows residents are pleased with the current council. He said he looks forward to continuing to work with Becker as well as begin a new chapter with Osler.

"Bonnie brings a lot to the council," he said. "She received a good score from the community, and with two successful candidates I think we can continue to tackle the hot issues we have."

The standing issues Ford looks forward to working on include the expansion of the Lewes library and maintaining the city's quality of life.

Osler said she's ready to jump in and contribute quickly to the council.

"I think that my strength is planning and analysis, so that is where I think I can make the biggest contribution," she said. "There are a lot of important issues facing the city, and I'm hoping to learn quickly and become a valuable team player on council."

Ford was particularly proud of the community for showing up at the polls in near record numbers.

"We had almost 83 percent; that's an exceptional statement," he said. "The fact that residents took time to come exercise their right to vote, that's reflective of the community we have, regardless of who they voted for."

Becker and Osler will be sworn into office 7 p.m., Monday, May 21, at Lewes Mayor and City Council’s meeting at City Hall.