Scheffer to replace McGuiness as Rehoboth commissioner

By unanimous vote, the Rehoboth Beach Board of Commissioners has appointed resident Steve Scheffer to fill the vacancy left by former commissioner and State Auditor-elect Kathy McGuiness.

This will be the first time in a long time that all seven commissioners are residents, said Mayor Paul Kuhns after the 6-0 vote Dec. 10.

Most of the discussion related to Scheffer’s appointment happened during a special meeting Dec. 7. After saying McGuiness had submitted a letter of resignation effective the day of the meeting, Kuhns nominated Scheffer.

Kuhns said Scheffer has been a resident of Rehoboth Beach for a year and a half and is a member of the Bandstand/Convention Hall/Special Events Committee and Rehoboth Beach Main Street. Plus, Kuhns said, he participates and helps with many community events.

Commissioner Toni Sharp said she supported Scheffer after speaking with him and being impressed with his balanced approach to the position. That’s a particular value that’s needed, she said.

Commissioner Stan Mills said he’s known Scheffer for a while, mainly through running across each other while taking their dogs for walks.

“My dog likes his dog, so that’s a plus,” said Mills, who then also voiced his support.

During the special meeting, Scheffer said he knows his appointment is an unusual situation, and he said he recognizes that he wasn’t voted in by the city’s constituents. He said he will work hard for the city.

In the Nov. 6 election, McGuiness, a Democrat, defeated Republican James Spadola to become the first woman elected to the statewide auditor’s position in Delaware history. McGuiness served as commissioner from 2000-13 and again since 2014.

Republican Thomas Wagner, who has been state auditor since 1989, did not to run for re-election because of health reasons.

There was some question as to whether McGuiness would remain a commissioner because neither state law nor the city charter required her to step down. Ultimately, she announced Nov. 21 that she would leave her Rehoboth post by the end of the year.

Her exit was hastened when it was announced she would be sworn in as deputy auditor.

McGuiness’ other duties were also addressed during the special meeting. Commissioner Lisa Schlosser was appointed secretary to the board of commissioners, and Bandstand/Convention Hall/Special Events Committee chair. Commissioner Pat Coluzzi was named liaison to Rehoboth Beach Main Street.

Kuhns said the plan is for Scheffer to be sworn in during the commissioners meeting Friday, Dec. 21. He said Scheffer will serve until the end of McGuiness’ term, which expires in August 2020.