Although I have been involved in local politics for a long time, I have avoided endorsing a particular candidate. However, I feel so strongly that we need a new voice to represent us in Delaware’s 41st District, and so strongly that Tom Brett can provide the representation that we deserve, that I firmly endorse Tom as our candidate for state representative of District 41.
Sussex County has not received its fair share of revenues from the state. Due largely to agriculture and tourism, Sussex provides a lion’s share of the sources of revenue to Dover. We have not received a proportionate amount of funds back for the area. This has affected our safety and quality of life. We need a representative who can work collaboratively with other members of the state Legislature to procure better infrastructure planning, support for farmers and a more stable funding model for volunteer fire companies.
The Millsboro bypass plan started in 1990 but is only now becoming a reality. In the meantime, development has progressed unrelentingly, and the bypass is probably too little, too late for current needs. If we want to continue to make Sussex County attractive to tourists and residents, we need to ensure that investments in infrastructure precede the needs, not be delayed by decades.
Farmers contribute to the tax base, jobs and open spaces, and are asked to modify their practices for environmental concerns, but given little support to implement the required changes. Agriculture is a multi-billion-dollar industry in Delaware and represents over 3% of the state’s GDP, yet farmers are not getting a commensurate amount of support.
Our area relies heavily on volunteer fire companies that are a dwindling group and struggling to find the resources necessary to keep up with the expanding population. Fire trucks alone can cost over $1 million. Fire companies must request financial aid from the state through grant programs that may or may not have the available funds to support their needs. Fire companies should have a more predictable source of funds so they can better plan their investments. There should also be better planning to ensure that roads are designed properly to allow trucks to safely navigate during emergencies.
We need a representative who can work collaboratively with all members of the Legislature so we can grow responsibly and bring back the needed investments to support that growth. It is time for a change in the 41st District. I support Tom Brett for Delaware state representative and encourage everyone else to vote for Tom.
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