The front-page story in this paper’s Oct. 18 edition was titled “Lewes Fire Department on fundraising crusade.” The fire department is in desperate need of money and support, yet the City of Lewes is installing a new playground at Canalfront Park for $400,000, as reported on page 20 of the same edition. The City of Lewes seems keenly aware that playgrounds warm hearts and collect votes, but fire department funding doesn't. Officials with power and financial control in Lewes are completely out of touch with the real needs of the entire community. The only words for this playground now in this time of fire department need are unnecessary, ridiculous, and, yes, even stupid. Someone should have to stand up and explain this to the entire community.
Editor’s note: The Lewes Fire Department is an independent organization that does not fall under the authority of the Lewes city government. The city provides an annual donation to the fire department, but fire department officials continue to seek a higher amount that is more equal to the number of calls within city limits.