Monday, August 6, 2012 - 11:27pm
Wilmington candidates discuss west side issues
Updated Tuesday, August 7, 2012 - 7:12am
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| candidates for mayor of Wilmington address issues at west side forum |
Candidates for Mayor of Wilmington address issues facing the west side of the city, including economic development, housing and public safety.
WDEL's Mark Fowser reports.
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The six hopefuls gave their impressions of a ten-year comprehensive revitalization plan initiated not by elected officials, but through the input of more than 800 citizens.
Councilman Kevin Kelley said like other neighborhoods, the west side could benefit by what he termed true community policing.
"To me, community policing is a two-way street as well. The community also has to be involved," Kelley said.
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Scott Spencer, a transportation consultant, said technology can play a role in solving crimes. He said anonymous texts and tips, along with a system of rewards for tips in serious crimes, could spur greater community cooperation with police.
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According to former state representative Dennis Williams, public safety is a key factor in improving economic vitality.
"First of all we have to stabilize the area," Williams said. "Then we have to go in and have a community roundtable, along with a business roundtable, to see exactly what the people in the community want."
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Robert Bovell, a bail bondsman, also links safety to a strong economy in the area.
"We've got to work together as a community. As a government, we have not been pro-active in that area, we've been reactive," Bovell said.
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As for the availability of city loan and grant support for business development, the Mayor's longtime chief of staff Bill Montgomery says there are limits.
"What the city needs to be doing is making targeted, limited investments in sure things, things that return your tax dollar to you fast," Montgomery stated.
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The winner of the five-way Democratic primary September 11th will face Republican Kevin Melloy in November.
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