My name is Rachel Macha. I am a candidate for Rehoboth Beach commissioner. I ran for commissioner in 2020 and 2021, but was not elected. I decided to run this year because Rehoboth needs someone who can influence change and bring a fresh perspective. Since 2020, the commissioners elected have had the same support base and have tended to band together on city decisions. Over the past four years, projects have been delayed, costing excessive legal fees and resources. The city has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on consultants and studies that have come and gone without decisions, and the most recent city manager $1.25 million compensation/relocation/forgivable loan decision is outrageous and insensible. I have built a strong, capable brand within the city while gaining experience working on behalf of Rehoboth property owners, residents, businesses and visitors. I served on the planning commission; plant, shade and tree commission; and currently serve on Rehoboth Beach Main Street board.
I am a Delaware native. I grew up in Wilmington and always loved coming to Rehoboth as a little girl. As I grew older, I drove to the beach on weekends. When I met my husband, Rich, he fell in love with Rehoboth too, so we spent weekends and vacations staying at the Abbey on Maryland Avenue. When children came along, we stretched to buy a home in south Rehoboth, which we have enjoyed for the past 25 years. Our five children all worked in Rehoboth starting at age 14 through high school and college. We feel blessed that our family made so many memories. Our family loves Rehoboth!
If I am fortunate to win this year, I will leverage my business background and experience working on city commissions and the Main Street board from the lens that the City of Rehoboth Beach should be run as a business.
I will advocate for property owners and residents by:
• Bringing common sense decision-making, improved process and policies, and fresh ideas to the board
• Control spending, manage to a balanced budget and properly forecast out at least two years
• Identify revenue opportunities that are not tied to more residential property tax increases and fees
• Champion the take back of Deauville Beach from the state
• Ensure future hiring and all decisions stay within guard rails, and have proper controls and approvals
• Encourage collaboration so all points of view are heard and we achieve the best outcome
• Propose a citizen advisory board to ensure current concerns, issues and ideas are heard.
Rehoboth is a very special place for families and friends to make memories, and there is room for all. You have my commitment to work hard for property owners, residents, businesses and visitors. Everyone should have a great citizen/customer experience when they are in Rehoboth.
I am confident that my experience; ability to be strategic and tactical; high-energy, can-do attitude; and team approach will serve the city well.
I am asking for your vote Aug. 10, if not before by absentee ballot. Thank you!
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