The Race Is On For The November 26th Newark Mayoral Election!

So far in the running for Mayor for sure are Don DelCollo, Robyn Harland, Rebecca Powers, Amy Roe, Polly Sierer and Matthew Vento.

I endorsed my friend, Don DelCollo, early on for Mayor by signing his nomination petition. Don's positions are posted at his website HERE. I especially like his issues page: HERE
Don on Parking ~

Parking downtown can be hassle for citizens of Newark and our guests. The city has always claimed that there is not a parking problem, just a perception of a problem. Well, I have news: there is a parking problem and it keeps getting worse. Basically we have a core downtown business district surrounded by the University of Delaware, which leaves no room to expand parking away from the core. We need new creative ideas to solve this problem and the University has to be part of the solution.

Amy Roe is another pal of mine. Read Amy's positions on her website: http://www.roeformayor.org/ and on facebook Roe for Mayor of Newark ~

I've been walking the streets of Newark talking to business-owners, many of whom I've known since childhood, to spread the word that I'm running for Mayor. A consistent theme that emerged in these conversations are concerns about rising utility costs and taxes without a clear explanation from the city of how those costs are being spent, and the need to restore transparency and accountability to city government. Its not unusual that residents feel the same way. The business community and the residents in Newark have always been closely connected.

I found a facebook page for Polly Sierer HERE.

Last night I attended the City of Newark, Delaware budget workshop, which offered a preview of what will be presented at the budget hearing next month.

Newark discusses tax, fee hikes - Money needed to fix water-system infrastructure

And Rebecca Powers has the local DEM machiner behind her http://www.powersformayor.org/ as you can see from her presser ~ 

Powers Launches Bid for Mayor
Supporters and Community Leaders Excited About Rebecca's Vision for Newark

Newark, DE– Rebecca Powers, an active Newarker from the Binns neighborhood, formally announced her candidacy for Mayor of Newark on Saturday, October 5, telling a crowd of supporters, "I'm ready to work with you and for you to ensure Newark's future is strong and sustainable."

Former Council Member Jerry Grant introduced Rebecca Powers.  He noted Rebecca has unique insight into our downtown from her years of service with the Downtown Newark Partnership.  She and her husband live within a short walking distance of Main Street, and she formerly lived on Main Street as well.  A longtime advocate of our downtown, Rebecca noted “it is a wonderful place to gather with family and friends.  As mayor, I will work diligently to attract vibrant businesses downtown that will serve all of our community."  Rebecca has significant support from the downtown community and expressed her appreciation to 16 Mile Taphouse for hosting her announcement event.

Jerry Grant also praised Rebecca's personal involvement in and appreciation for the arts, and he expects that she will be a terrific advocate for maintaining Newark's unique character and our quality of life.  State Representative Paul Baumbach also expressed that Rebecca had all of the qualities he looks for in a mayor, such as the ability to lead and follow when appropriate.  Other local leaders attending the event to support Rebecca included former Council Member Ezra Temko, Representative Ed Osienski, and Senator Dave Sokola.  Senator Bryan Townsend has also been actively campaigning with Rebecca; he was unable to attend but a representative was present on his behalf.

Approximately 50 community members turned out to support Rebecca.  She has been knocking on doors and meeting community members to hear their concerns and ideas for the city.  “Downtown parking, traffic, and the proposed data center and power plant project are key issues, and we’ll need solid leadership to address them, “ Powers said.  She told the attendees at Saturday’s event that she is looking forward to working together with residents, businesses, and the university to ensure that all members of our community have a voice in Newark’s growth.  “We need to find a path forward that will ensure we grow in a way that is best for everyone.”

Rebecca Powers works in landscape design and is actively involved in a number of local and statewide community organizations.  Her husband Tom, Director of UD's Center for Science, Ethics, and Public Policy, attended the event and expressed his enthusiasm for her campaign.  “Her organization, determination, and leadership will suit Newark well.”  Rebecca encourages any Newarker interested in sharing their views on the city or learning more about her candidacy to contact her directly.  She can be reached by e-mail at Rebecca@PowersForMayor.org or phone at (302) 451-9066.  

I didn't find anything online yet for Robyn Harland or Matthew Vento but I am sure we'll be seeing all of these candidates going door to door and have the chance to meet them and listen to them debate well before election day.

~*~