I have chosen to run for Town Chair because I see it as an opportunity to help.
We have consistently declining engagement in our volunteer government as evidenced by the attendance at our Town Assembly, referendums that are largely ignored, and the number of people holding positions on multiple committees.
We have all suffered harm caused to us by some of our neighbor’s choices as to how they choose to participate in our government, as well as our County and State governments. We have all suffered harm caused to us by some of our neighbor’s choices in the way we have been represented to the external agencies we depend on, such as our county police and local fire departments, county zoning and code enforcement, DelDOT, private utility companies, and local businesses.
We can and must begin by improving our Town Assembly. I will not tolerate interruptions. There do exist proper parliamentary procedures for removing unruly members and I intend to publicize and encourage these. There are also additional procedural changes to the format of the Town Assembly that can be implemented as a means of deterrence or prevention. Preparation and publications prior to Town Assembly can also make a great difference. It is unfortunate that I consider this to be a foundation of the platform on which I am seeking your endorsement. I will look forward to leaving this behind and being able to participate in constructive endeavors.
I would like to improve participation in our decision making processes by working with our Registration and Advisory Committees to continue to improve our remote and absentee voting. I would also like to work with them to find ways to quickly and efficiently gather accurate votes at Town Assembly meetings.
I would like to use the title of Town Chair to actively engage agencies and groups outside of Arden to strengthen our relationships. I would like to invite them to meet with us and collaborate with us. I would like to be able to confidently offer our time and efforts to help them achieve their goals as well. I see an Arden that is connected to its North Wilmington community as a goal worthy of effort. I would like to be confident that my neighbors can count on the strength of our neighbors outside of Arden. I will be proud to see us all held in high esteem by the same.
I will encourage our Committees to continue their work in providing opportunities for us to enjoy our municipal resources. Rejoicing in the sylvan cathedrals of our forests and basking in the company of my neighbors in our Village Center are great joys of mine. The ease and proximity of which I enjoy live music, intellectual programming, athletics, recreational activities, performing arts, and public gatherings are not lost on me. This is all due to the same hard work and recognition of collective responsibility that drive us all to continue to put forth the efforts required to sustain our unique lifestyle. I will do all that I can to encourage these efforts and make it easier and more enjoyable for us all.
Respectfully submitted, Simon Hamermesh
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