Rehoboth Mayor Sam Cooper, Tom McGlone, Mark Hunker, Rick Kirchhoff, Rehoboth Commissioner Lorraine Zellers
On Saturday August 13, voters in Rehoboth Beach will go the polls to elect a Mayor and two City Commissioners. In the mayoral race, incumbent Sam Cooper is being challenged by Tom McGlone. In the Commisssioner’s race, incumbent Lorraine Zellers, and challengers Mark Hunker and Rick Kirchhoff are seeking to fill two positions. All five candidates responded to our five questions.
Introduce yourself to the readers of Letters from CAMP Rehoboth and talk a little bit about why they should vote for you in the election on August 13.
Cooper: I am a life-long resident of Rehoboth Beach and have been Mayor for 21 years. I am a business person, who owns rental cottages and a share of a motel. Most of my non-work time has been spent in service to the citizens of Rehoboth Beach. I served as a Commissioner for eight years before being elected Mayor, and have been a member of the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Co. for 38 years. As someone who grew up here, I have a deep sense of “community” and what it means to our City. I have worked with many organizations, including CAMP Rehoboth, to address the needs of our City and to advance this sense of community. I have the knowledge, experience and commitment to preserve the community you and I love. Your vote for me will ensure that we build on the successes of the past and do not turn back the clock.
McGlone: I am Tom McGlone, a property owner and full time resident of Rehoboth Beach. I have held positions in business which have utilized my strong financial as well as leadership skills since obtaining my MBA from George Washington University in Washington DC. Most recently, I have started my own financial advisory practice Heirloom Wealth Advisors with offices in Lewes, DE and Sparks, MD (a suburb of Baltimore). My partner’s name is Andy and we have been together for 17 years. We have three Jack Russell terriers and our families are in New Jersey and Wales, UK.
Hunker: I have been a part of Rehoboth Beach for almost 15 years now, first as a visitor, then a homeowner, then a business owner, and now someone with a family putting down roots. I have 25 years of experience in government service at the federal, state, and local levels and have worked with many community-based organizations on issues that are important to this community. I am currently the Chief Operating Officer of a 650+ person consulting firm operating in over 40 states, so I am ready to tackle the tough issues facing Rehoboth Beach today.
Kirchhoff: I am a full-time resident, and owner/operator of the Canalside Inn in here Rehoboth. I started coming to Rehoboth as a summer visitor in the early 1990s and bought my first weekend home here in 1997. My partner, Steven, and I liked living here so much we started looking for business opportunities as a step toward eventually relocating here. We bought the Inn in 2005. I moved here full time at the end of 2008 as our business grew. Prior to moving here permanently, I was the CEO of a national, non-profit trade association in Washington, DC for sixteen years. I have experience running a large, complex organization.
I was motivated to run for commissioner for two reasons. There is a lack of clear direction on where the city is going. The commission’s agenda and its budget are not tied to a clearly defined plan. Secondly, I am concerned about the increasingly confrontational tone which has characterized both the meetings of the commission and the relationship between the city and the business community.
Zellers: I’m Lorraine Zellers—not the “new face” anymore, but maybe still an unknown to some of you.
I was born and raised in Baltimore where I still live with Tom, my husband of almost 42 years. We’ve one son, a wonderful daughter-in-law and were recently blessed with our first grandchild. My entire career has been in the medical field, the last 11 in medical research.
We bought our home in Country Club Estates almost 12 years ago, and as a part-time resident, I value my right to take part in the city’s government. I’ve been a registered voter for 11 years and participated in every election.
My reasons for serving remain the same.
A commitment to preserving what makes Rehoboth unique—our sense of community—the blending of all kinds of people united by a common love for our city.
A commitment to living within our means. The economy is still uncertain so being prudent with spending initiatives is paramount.
A commitment to better communication between the city and its citizens.
A commitment to see more people take advantage of our right to vote and participate in our government.
I’ve learned much as your commissioner these past three years. I believe the fact that I’m not a business-owner, realtor or developer gives me a different perspective and allows me to be more independent when evaluating an issue, as I have nothing to gain. My agenda is that I have none, except what’s good for the city.
To me, it’s about being fair and about balancing what’s good for the residents with what’s good for businesses— Rehoboth is successful because of that balance.
What do you consider to be the single most important issue in this election, and what are your plans to deal with it?
Cooper: I believe that the single most important issue in this election, as in nearly every election, centers around making informed decisions that are sensitive to and build on the positives. The Rehoboth Beach of today did not just happen. Many courageous people over a long period of time have made difficult but important decisions about the future of this City. We need to fully appreciate what makes Rehoboth so special and make decisions for our future that maintain these essential qualities. Special care must be taken to ensure the continued viability of both our residential neighborhoods and our commercial business district. The residential neighborhoods are the definition of Rehoboth Beach, but without vigilance and the will to make the tough choices we could lose this essential character. At the same time, we must continue to maintain and improve our commercial areas and beach to keep our businesses competitive.
McGlone: I believe that the single most important issue in this election is restoring the credibility lost this past year in our elected officials. Rehoboth Beach is a great resort in many respects, but when segments of our community do not believe that City government is working on their behalf, then we need to change the tone and rebuild what has been lost. This will be accomplished through visibility in the community and lots of communication and education.
Hunker: If elected, my first action would be to build more effective relationships among the Commissioners, the Mayor and the City in order to come to closure on the key issues facing Rehoboth Beach. We must work together as a team and resist the urge to retreat to the hardened positions that haven’t served the City well in the past.
Kirchhoff: I am very concerned about the deteriorating relations between the city administration and our restaurateurs and merchants. The noise enforcement actions of last summer against the restaurants were handled very badly, have tarnished the city’s image, and have exposed a raw nerve which threatens to undermine the civility of our town. The more recent crackdown by the city’s new code enforcement officer has only exacerbated the problem. We will have a lot of work to do to repair the damage and restore good will. On the noise matter, I think the city needs to reach out and work collaboratively with the affected businesses to make them part of the solution. More broadly, I would like to see our city manager, police chief, and major department heads have periodic community meetings with our citizens to answer their questions and hear their concerns.
Zellers: I continue to believe that the greatest challenge will be preserving the character and quality of life that makes Rehoboth unique. Change is inevitable and necessary for growth, but change for the sake of change is not. A certain level of continuity is also important. There will always be pressures for Rehoboth to “change.” Rehoboth’s strength is that it’s been able to balance the things that are important—its people, its businesses, its development. I remain committed to making decisions that will maintain the balance between the diverse interests of our residential and business communities.
Perhaps equally important, the city needs to do a better job of getting the word out to everyone that may be impacted by decisions being made for them. Many misconceptions can be avoided with more effective communication, and my goal will be to implement a process for making that happen.
What message do you have for the LGBT community here in Rehoboth Beach?
Cooper: The LGBT community brings much to this City—economically, culturally, socially, politically, and in many other ways. I see individuals for who they are, not as part of any stereotypical group. Based on their qualifications, I have appointed openly gay members to the city’s Planning Commission and supported the election of gay City Commissioners. Under my administration, the policies of the City have recognized all individuals as equals. For example, in cooperation with the LGBT community, we unanimously passed a non-discrimination ordinance and instituted sensitivity training for our police in order to better meet the community’s concerns. CAMP Rehoboth truly serves as “the heart of the community,” and is a welcome partner in all we do to make Rehoboth Beach a more positive place to live, work and visit.
McGlone: My message for the LBGT community in Rehoboth Beach is one of importance. The LBGT community is an important segment of our population, with CAMP Rehoboth as the heart of our community. Our community provides another element of diversity that makes our seaside resort a special place. In addition to diversity, our community provides a large financial contribution to our town. This comes not only from taxes and spending in our town, but also the large amount of charitable giving that takes place at the many events that our community hosts each year. These facts should be clearly acknowledged by our elected officials. It is something to be proud of.
Hunker: To the LGBT community I say, I am one of you…and I am here for the same reasons you are here, the people and places that make this town. And, while I am gay and feel more welcomed here than any other place—I am running for City Commissioner to represent all communities in Rehoboth. I want that same embrace that my partner and child and our family and friends feel from this City to be felt by all.
Kirchhoff: We are very fortunate to live and play in a wonderful town which is open and accepting. Much of the credit goes to CAMP Rehoboth for the work they have done over the years building bridges, changing attitudes, and truly creating a more positive environment for our LGBT citizens and visitors. The recent enactment of the civil unions bill by the legislature has only added to Rehoboth’s intrinsic charm as a place to put down roots, be they full-time or seasonal.
Zellers: I have the same message for all residents of Rehoboth—I want to continue as your commissioner—that means everybody.
I believe that Rehoboth’s greatest strength is its communities—the blending of all kinds of people united by a love for our town. The lesbian and gay community is an integral part of Rehoboth—as homeowners, business owners, volunteers, and elected officials. Without the continued commitment of all of Rehoboth’s citizens, we would not be the success we are.
So I will repeat what I said during my last campaign, “THANK YOU! Let’s keep working together to sustain and enhance the community we share.”
At CAMP Rehoboth we frequently talk about Rehoboth as a place with “room for all.” How do you interpret that expression, and how does it fit into your philosophy as an elected official?
Cooper: If they are willing to contribute, Rehoboth welcomes anyone and no one feels out of place.
McGlone: As a member of CAMP Rehoboth, I completely get the concept of “room for all.” I see it every day in the work that CAMP Rehoboth does. Inclusivity should not only be the mission of CAMP, but will also be my mission as Mayor. In this regard, I would like to see CAMP Rehoboth with a greater role in City government. This might mean committee work, or getting more of the straight community involved in the events of CAMP. Social events are a great way for people to get to know each other and form a stronger community. Additionally, I would like to see the City and City commissioners become CAMP Rehoboth members.
Hunker: As for the term “room for all,” this follows on from my last topic. We must take it at face value—almost black and white. We either continue to build on the welcoming and inclusive history, especially the strides made in the past 20+ years, or we will become that island off on our own that I often speak about. We cannot alienate any group of people, whether they’re full-time residents, part-time property owners, daytrippers, business owners, or a longtime annual visitor. We must expand the table, add a chair, and listen to those who want to be part of this community. They have something to add to the conversation and can help us weave the fabric that people have been working on for many years.
For me this term is also personal, I do feel that there is room for me and my family here. My partner and I have a beautiful 5-year old daughter and we feel there is no better place for her to be from when we send her off to college and beyond. Rehoboth was part of our decision to adopt. We spent hours, weeks and months planning to adopt, we asked why, when and how, but never had to ask WHERE —we always knew it would be Rehoboth. We have always felt at home here and knew this City, and its people, would welcome us.
Kirchhoff: Rehoboth is rich with diversity. We have year-round residents, weekenders, retirees, families, gay and lesbian citizens, renters, business owners, and thousands of visitors. Each group brings a different perspective, a different set of values and different reasons why they live, work, and play here. For some it is the ocean and boardwalk attractions; for others, the food and nightlife. For still others, it is our small-town look and feel. Everyone is able to enjoy Rehoboth in their own way and it is exactly this diversity which gives strength and vitality to our town.
There has at times been the “us” and “them” dichotomy drawn when residents talk about the summer visitors. We must be mindful that many are not able to afford to live in our little square mile of paradise. But, we must make our visitors feel as if they are owners too. I believe it is important that Rehoboth promotes a friendly image and makes everyone feel welcome and appreciated.
These are my guiding principles:
Independent. I will exercise independence and use my best judgment to evaluate every issue that comes before the commission. I will insist that our citizens’ right to notice and opportunity for comment are protected.
Fair-Minded. I will balance the needs of the individual with those of the community and look for mutually satisfactory solutions to problems.
Equal Treatment for Everyone. Our citizens have a right to receive courteous service and be treated with dignity and respect. I will strive to ensure that the city’s ordinances and regulations are fair and reasonable and that the city’s enforcement actions are even-handed and applied equally to all.
Zellers: I would interpret it literally. I believe that Rehoboth has worked hard to become a “place for all” to live with their families, to work, to vacation and to retire.
It is my personal philosophy too, so it fits perfectly with what I will bring to the table as an elected official—listening to all, evaluating issues fairly, negotiating compromises when possible and making the best decision for the city as a whole.
I want all to feel that they are welcome here—as neighbors, visitors and friends.
What kind of vision do you have for the City of Rehoboth, and how does your vision set you apart from your opponents?
Cooper: The Rehoboth Beach of the future, for me, does not outwardly look much different than it does today. The Atlantic Ocean remains the centerpiece of the City and we have continued to prevent its commercialization. We have continued to improve other natural features such as the two lakes and the abundant trees that set Rehoboth apart from other ocean resorts. The City, just as the style of its homes, has an eclectic mix of businesses, but rejects the extremes. I feel that if we truly focus on the City we will find there is much more to unite us than divide us.
I look forward to continuing to serve our city, and ask for your continued support on August 13.
McGlone: My vision for Rehoboth Beach is an extension of where we sit today. It is a blend of the quaint charm of a beautiful small town coupled with modern improvements that make it even better. We should not be afraid of change but should embrace it. Many aspects of the City have been approached from a historical perspective. I learned something very important in my career as a financial advisor, “Past performance is no guarantee of future results.” In addition, we must never forget that people are what make Rehoboth Beach special. We as a city must respect, provide solutions not obstacles, and remember that rules are important, but so is fun.
Hunker: My vision for the City of Rehoboth Beach is both long and short term. If elected we must, as a Commission, do the business of the people with them in mind—after all we are residents first and are touched by every rule and regulation. There are many short-term issues that have been on the City’s docket for too long, it is time to review the information provided, discuss it, identify funds, if necessary, and come to closure. These are the same issues discussed at most meetings this year and in the previous year—Tree Canopy, Noise and Patio ordinances, and action on the Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP). The Commission and Mayor must act so they are able to move on to the long-term planning issues that face the City.
Long-term planning is a must for Rehoboth Beach; it is not something we can avoid. We must look deeper into the CDP, fix our sidewalks, discuss traffic issues, and search for new revenue sources; we must discuss openly the current and future mandates imposed on us by the County and State, and we must build stronger relationships with the County and neighboring towns.
I believe what sets me apart is my history of rolling up my sleeves on just these issues I write about above. My track record of success with elected officials, fellow Board members I have served with, and my current work as a Chief Operating Officer. And, maybe most important, I served as PTA chair for the past two years at my daughter’s school. That’s 94 families, each of whom has the perfect child! Joking aside, I believe I am ready for this challenge.
Lastly, on the vision question, my non-business vision for Rehoboth looks a lot like it does today, as it did last year, and 15 years ago when I first arrived in town. I want to keep Rehoboth Beach an inclusive community that has room for all, but also one that allows for praise, discussion, and dissent all at the same time. We need to continually remind ourselves that our town is better off, and stronger, if our voices don’t all sound the same and our families are diverse.
Kirchhoff: Let me first say that I hope my vision of the city, rather than setting me apart from the others, would be one that is shared by my opponents, so that no matter who loses, Rehoboth wins.
Rehoboth is a wonderful town that offers so much to its residents and visitors. We have a beautiful beach and lively boardwalk. We have top-caliber, award winning restaurants. We have a wide variety of shopping opportunities. And, we have a number of fairs and festivals which keep our community vibrant throughout the year. Despite the seasonal fluctuations in population, Rehoboth has become a year-round town. We share common interests and a sense of place where people actually care what happens to each other. It’s no wonder so many people have chosen to make their home here. And, as I said earlier, Rehoboth is a community rich with diversity. Yet, from this diversity we must also divine a shared vision for our community.
The Comprehensive Development Plan, approved last year, is an excellent starting point. While I don’t agree with every recommendation in it, the Planning Commission spent many months hearing from citizens and synthesizing their comments, concerns and ideas into a vision for our town. The missing elements seem to be a timetable, a budget, and a commitment by the city to implement it.
Zellers: My vision for the future stems from what Rehoboth Beach is right now—a charming, beautiful small town that works. My vision would preserve and enhance that character and retain the common sense, can-do approach we have always relied on.
I see a city that is the same attractive, green town that we are now, I see a city that has remained financially solvent—that has implemented the capital projects needed and wanted by its citizens, yet still has acceptable debt. I see a vibrant downtown with less cars and more friendly to pedestrians, bicycles and small local vehicles.
For voting information, call 302-227-6181.
Photo: Candidate Forum at CAMP Rehoboth on July 22.