I am writing to voice my support for Craig Thier and Mark Saunders in the upcoming Rehoboth Beach election. In evaluating the candidates, Craig and Mark stand out not only for their deep roots in our city but also for their extensive professional expertise and dedicated service to our community.
Craig Thier's contributions to Rehoboth Beach are exemplary. His tenure on the beach and boardwalk committee displays his commitment to preserving our city's most cherished assets. Moreover, Craig's professional background in budgeting and financial forecasting, both in house and through his own firm, uniquely qualifies him to make sound fiscal decisions that will benefit our community for years to come.
Likewise, Mark Saunders has demonstrated outstanding leadership and service to our city as the head of the Rehoboth Beach Homeowners’ Association and as a member of the board of adjustment. His proactive approach to solving community issues and ability to foster collaboration among residents highlight his effectiveness as a leader. Mark's dedication to maintaining the quality of life in our city is evident.
In contrast stand Suzanne Goode and Rachel Macha, the other candidates in the race. Both lack the essential qualities needed for effective governance in our city.
I served with Suzanne on the stormwater utility task force, where she struggled to stay focused, wasted scarce deliberative time and so dominated the discussion with irrelevant chatter that the chair threatened her with removal. Yes, she attends most commissioner meetings and speaks from the gallery at each one. The problem is that her comments are often off-topic, repetitive and do not advance the cause of solving the city’s problem. A case in point is Monday’s commissioner meeting where she repeatedly shouted from the gallery toward the dais after the closing of the public comment period. That behavior underscores her inability to contribute meaningfully and productively in a governance role. Not surprisingly, Suzanne lost and withdrew her candidacy in two previous commissioner races.
Rachel's candidacy is equally concerning. She refers to herself as a city resident even though she maintains Florida residency, swooping into town now and then to run for commissioner. That transient commitment to our community undermines her credibility as a long-term advocate for our city's interests. Like Suzanne, Rachel ran twice for commissioner – she lost both races.
Diversity is important; I would have supported a capable woman candidate, but it is imperative we elect serious individuals who are present, honest, deeply committed and capable of delivering tangible results. Craig Thier and Mark Saunders embody these qualities through their local residency, professional acumen and proven record of service. Cast your vote for Craig Thier and Mark Saunders.
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