Locals discuss issues ahead of town council elections

BETHANY BEACH, Del. – With elections for town council two weeks away, and a packed house at the Bethany Beach town hall, we spoke to locals about issues that are on their minds.

It’s been a full summer since the canopy and tent bans were put in place and residents are pleased with the results.

“People would get down there at 8 o’clock in the morning, set up 25 chairs, three tents, canopies until 1,” said Bethany Beach resident Joe Lane.  “So I think they’ve cut down on that a lot, and that’s good.”

There was a split on opinions for children’s activities in Bethany.  One local tells us Bethany lacks things to do for kids that could be more inviting to families, others thought different.

“Based on our experiences as a family, there’s just nothing for kids to do around here,” said Ken Nelson.  “To go on rides, to have games, to have fun.  So it’s kind of a little bit low-key for a family.  I just think that to bring this place up to a great vacation spot, something to do for the kids.”

“That’s why we’re the quiet resort, and I doubt if anybody would want that.  I mean bring in a bounce land or something like that,” said Bethany Beach resident Gloria Farrar.

Most residents were happy with the push to bring in more off-season events like the Fire and Ice Festival, held in January, and hope the next council continues the push.

“When they had the ice palaces and the ice skating rinks, it was a lot of fun, and it brought a lot of people into town,” said Farrar.

But as one local pointed out, the more events held in the offseason, the more business is brought in to help local shops.

“We have to keep our businesses happy too.   A lot of them have to close down right after Labor Day so the more they’re open year round, we’re here year round now and we love it,” added Farrar.

Another hot topic issue for Bethany Beach residents is parking within the town.  Some say the along Route 1 should be used for additional parking.  Others say there’s not much the town council can do about that issue.

The election for town council in Bethany Beach will take place on Saturday, September 8th.

The six candidates running for the four seats include three incumbents: R. Bruce Frye, Rosemary Hardiman and Lew Killmer.  Two challengers who are residents include Faith M. Denault and James E. Sirkis.  One non-resident, Larry Fishel, rounds out the list.  Members of town council serve two-year terms.

Mayor Jack Gordon did not file for re-election.