Ellendale hires first town manager in 120-year history

In a little more than four month, Ellendale will celebrate the anniversary of its incorporation 120 years ago. In the town’s entire history, it’s never had a town manager. Until now.

Ellendale Town Manager Kayla Adkins took the helm Dec. 2.

Adkins, 30, has spent the past five years in various government positions locally. She was an accounts payable clerk for Lewes Board of Public Works, a city clerk for Lewes and then the town clerk in Henlopen Acres. She has also been the Sussex County Association of Towns’ administrative assistant for nearly four years. Becoming a town manager was a career goal, said Adkins.

“I was ecstatic. It’s an honor to be chosen as Ellendale’s first town manager,” said Adkins. “Now that I’ve done that, it’s about putting in the work to make a difference.”

Adkins said town officials are looking for her to help with the property tax process, update the town charter and employee handbook, and code enforcement. The goal is to get these things in line with, and to handle, the town’s future growth, she said.

The town has annexed large properties in the past few years. Most recently, during a special election Dec. 7, the town’s voters approved the annexation of about 20 acres located on the corner of Routes 16 and 113.

Ellendale Town Council President Tom Panas said it was time to hire a town manager because the town is growing. With all the annexations, the town’s population will increase from 500 to 3,000 or 4,000 in the next five to 10 years, he said.

Adkins is a Sussex County native. Born in Seaford, she now lives in Lincoln and is married with two kids. One of the benefits of the new position is that it’s closer to home, which means it’s a short commute and there will be much less driving in beach traffic.

“I can’t wait. It’s definitely helpful for the family. I can be home in time to get my daughter off the bus,” she said.

Adkins’ position is part time – 30 hours per week – and she gets paid $27 per hour. She said there’s an opportunity for a raise at the three- and six-month marks.

Ellendale’s town hall office, 300 McCaulley Ave., is open 9 a.m. to noon, Monday through Thursday. Adkins can be reached at kayla.adkins@ellendale.delaware.gov or by calling 302-422-6727.