Rehoboth Beach officials are exploring significant revisions to the city charter, including changes to property tax limits, debt ceilings, and public referendum requirements.
The discussions, presented by Assistant City Manager Evan Miller during a commissioner workshop on March 10th, aim to modernize regulations and improve city governance.
Proposed Charter Amendments
- Property Tax Cap Adjustment: The current $3 million annual cap on property tax revenue may be replaced with a percentage-based system based on reassessments and improvements to land in order to allow for flexible future growth.
- Debt Ceiling Modification: The city’s borrowing limit, currently set at $75 million, could be adjusted to a percentage of the annual budget.
- Referendum Threshold Increase: The current rule requiring public approval for borrowing above $6 million might be revised to a higher threshold.
Additional Code and Charter Revisions
City officials are also considering:
- Clarifying property owner responsibilities for sidewalk maintenance.
- Updating outdated fine structures.
- Adjusting the timeline for implementing commissioner salary increases.
Future Steps
While these proposals are in the early discussion phase, officials are not rushing the process for the current legislative session. Instead, they are laying the groundwork for future updates.
A separate initiative includes a substantial rewrite of the city code, with a budget of $100,000 allocated for the project in next year’s budget.
Areas under review include fence height regulations, non-conforming structure rules, outdoor shower restrictions, and construction site management.
Community Engagement
Residents and stakeholders will have opportunities to weigh in on these potential changes.
As discussions progress, Rehoboth Beach aims to create a more effective and sustainable governance structure.
Stay tuned for updates on these proposed changes and how they may impact the community. Follow our blog for the latest news and share your thoughts on Rehoboth Beach’s future!
Source: Cape Gazette