Credit to: Coastal Point, Susan Canfora
Photo credit: DNREC
Mayor Ron Calef reported that while recent storms have reduced portions of the dunes, much of that sand has naturally shifted onto the beach and into the surf, helping preserve the shoreline. Public Works and DNREC were recognized for quickly reinstalling accessibility mats and repairing dune crossovers in time for the summer season. Visitors will also notice new seating areas and a durable concrete retaining wall at First and Second Streets.
Nature Center May Reopen This Summer
The Town is working with the Delaware Nature Society on an agreement to operate the Bethany Beach Nature Center. If approved, the organization would oversee staffing and programming, with the goal of reopening the facility later this summer.
Labor Day Celebration Under Consideration
Following the cancellation of the Fire & Ice Festival drone show due to weather, Town officials are exploring a Labor Day weekend drone show and small fireworks display in partnership with the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce. The event would coincide with Bethany Beach's 125th anniversary celebration.
Public Works Facility Planning
Council reviewed an initial concept for a new two-story Public Works building that would replace the existing open storage structure. Additional design and planning discussions are expected in the coming months.
Bicycle & Pedestrian Safety
The Town's Bicycle & Pedestrian Safety Committee continues to expand its public education efforts with new safety videos focused on both pedestrians and cyclists. Officials reminded residents and visitors to use crosswalk beacons, make eye contact with drivers, wear light-colored clothing, and carry flashlights when walking at night.
Welcoming International Students
Mayor Calef encouraged the community to welcome the international J-1 students who work in Bethany Beach each summer. The Police Department recently hosted a safety seminar for the students, and St. Martha's Episcopal Church organized a community picnic to help them feel at home.
Legislative Updates
Council received updates on several state legislative matters, including:
- A proposed Delaware medical school, which could help increase the number of physicians serving Sussex County.
- Ongoing legal developments involving offshore wind permitting.
- House Bill 363, which would allow municipalities to reduce speed limits on locally owned streets from 25 mph to 20 mph without requiring an engineering study.
- Senate Bill 23, addressing affordable housing planning requirements.
- House Bill 430, a proposed constitutional amendment that could eventually impact Bethany Beach's municipal voting rules for non-resident property owners.
Public Comment
A resident expressed concerns about the weekly Saturday morning demonstrations along Garfield Parkway, citing traffic noise, frequent horn honking, and disruptions to nearby neighborhoods. Town officials explained that while protesters have a constitutional right to assemble on public property, they have asked the group to relocate, but the request was declined. The Town will continue discussions with the group while balancing First Amendment protections with residents' concerns.
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