I have owned the property located at Route 24 and Angola Road for more than 21 years. Over that time, I have witnessed significant changes to the local landscape due to vast growth.
As most of you know, this site was proposed for a Royal Farms. This project extended over two years, and during that time, I met with Royal Farms representatives on several occasions. Although I would be taking up residence and moving my business to a new location, I made many suggestions to the prospective new owners for additional projects they could consider for the area that would have improved the quality of life for the residents of the local community.
Ultimately, as a businessman, I had to decide whether to extend my contract with Royal Farms. This wasn’t without great thought and much guidance of trusted members of the local community. It can take many months, bordering on years, for a project of this nature to get the needed approvals with Sussex County. It’s important to note that Royal Farms wasn’t denied. They hadn’t even gotten their hearing date within the timelines of our contract. I let Royal Farms know in advance of the expiration in June that I would not be willing to extend our current contract without a change in terms for an extension. They withdrew their application because they hadn’t gotten a date with Sussex County prior to their contract expiration date with me.
I want to extend my sincere thanks to Sussex County Councilman Mark Schaeffer for his invaluable guidance throughout this process. He played a key role in my decision to not extend the sales contract with Royal Farms. Mark took the time to listen to all perspectives from the community, and contrary to what some may believe, there was significant support for this project.
Many residents in the area recognize that conveniences like this are necessary with the continued growth in our region. When you live and work within 20 miles of the ocean, the demand for services never stops. With thousands of new homes already approved, it would be irresponsible for Sussex County to not approve the essential services needed to support this growth.
Ultimately, Royal Farms withdrew their application for rezoning due to my decision not to extend their contract.
As a businessman and resident of the community, I felt the need to clear the air and hopefully tame the climate.
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