They Came from Near and Far

Betterton's first ever League of Women Voters' Candidate Forum was a big success. Residents both part and full-time came by car, foot and cycle to hear the candidates speak. With the able guidance of the League's facilitator, Margie Elsberg, questions and answers were all presented in a civil and informative way. The Kent County News was duly present with camera man. About the only downside was that none of the non-incumbents bothered to either show up and face their opponents or provide position statements. Are these the type of individuals you want to lead our town's government? You know the B-Blogger's opinion but what is yours?

The major issues discussed were those of the water/sewage treatment plant upgrades, the candidates vision for the future and the potential for a police force. It was very clear that each of the three incumbents are committed and passionate about Betterton. Probably most earth shattering was the necessity due to State mandates for the water/sewage treatment plant upgrades which will be in the neighborhood of 5 million dollars. This is a big number that must be met within the next 5 years or our town will suffer penalties of 2500 dollars a day and no ability to dispose of the waste. In addition, Kent County could take over control and then our residents can expect significant increases in their water and sewage bills, far in excess of present numbers. Mayor Sorge assured residents that she and Council are working diligently on securing grants to assist with this 5 million need and at present we are considered to be well on our way to secure some.

It was very clear that a town police force will not happen due to the enormous expense burden and our very low crime rate in comparison to neighboring villages and towns. Councilman Sutton pointed out that several years ago a Town Watch was attempted, but only two people bothered to show up for the training. People of Betterton need to play a more active role in their town's business, programs and government was a clear undertone to the forum. The candidates all pointed out that actions can only take place when people work together, create options and implement those with the greatest chance for success. This cannot be accomplished by Mayor and Council alone. If you see an opportunity or challenge, we the residents must be willing to step up to the bar, discuss it and propose and then work on the viable options for success. The candidates pointed out that there are only a handful of Betterton neighbors who will role up their sleeves and commit to volunteering on a committee or project team. Yet, we have as the Mayor pointed out a very diverse and knowledgeable population that needs to be harnessed for the betterment of this town.

Constituents asked about local business attraction and enhanced communication with all who live here. These of course are favorite topics of the B-Blogger. Candidates pointed to the fact that Betterton is a destination not a hot spot and people have to come here on their own volition. The town's population cannot support local businesses as clearly seen by the failure of our restaurants on the beach. The B-blogger asked what efforts are being made to advance awareness of our wonderful town and bring the people that will support local business. Alas, this was a weak spot as there is no active solicitation nor promotion of the town beyond the efforts of the BCDC. Would you be willing to put in time and effort with the BCDC or a committee established by Council to make this change happen?

What about a website for the town's people? Indeed this is on the way but no launch date is set. Here again the challenge will be to maintain the website, are you willing to write and edit articles? Perhaps we could highlight those non elected residents and neighbors who are rolling up their sleeves for the betterment of the town. The B-blogger believes we need a communications committee established by Mayor and Council to work with all town entities to promote events and opportunities. The B-blogger is ready to role up my sleeves, are you?

The forum was brought to a close a little bit beyond 8 PM with a reminder that your vote counts and next Saturday, October 2, is our day of reckoning when you will make the difference in where we go from here. Remember Betterton is the place where one vote can make a difference, so be there.