Referendum could fund Lewes forest purchase
Several years ago the Greater Lewes Foundation led a community visioning exercise called Future Scan. The idea was to take a look at how the area was developing, gauge residents’ concerns, and determine what actions could be taken to positively influence the future.
Not surprisingly, residents voiced great appreciation for open space and its preservation, as well as for trails to link communities and open spaces.
By a large factor, the residents involved in the exercise, from a broad spectrum of the community, said they would support tax increases to protect open space.
In Lewes, the community now has an opportunity to act on that sentiment. A group advocating for the preservation of an 18-acre forest in the middle of town is following the advice of architect Frank Lloyd Wright who - quoted here many times before - said: “If you want the view, you have to buy the view.”
A figure of $4 million has been discussed as the possible purchase price. The group said it wants to raise the money to make the purchase and own the forest and the view. Further, the group says it would like to have the forest serve as a natural monument to former Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden and his good work on behalf of children. Both approaches have merit.
Biden established a close connection with Lewes in the aftermath of the Earl Bradley pedophilia tragedy. He moved quickly to establish an adjunct office in Lewes to work with the victims and their parents to ensure that the necessary care and assistance were available. He kept that office open and accessible throughout the process. Crimes against children and senior citizens remained of highest priority during his terms in office.
City of Lewes residents have passed referendum elections in the past to fund a variety of projects through sale of bonds and repay them with a dedicated tax increase. Such tools make heavy lifts more viable by spreading the burden across an entire community and for many years.
Such a referendum election should be considered to preserve the Fourth Street forest.
