Why I am running: I hung up my phone again, unable to help the person on the other end. It was a senior citizen who could no longer afford their rent. Their rent had increased, ate through their savings and they are now out of options. It is my job to help the senior population in Sussex County and the amount who live in sheds, cars, or worse is growing at a horrific pace. There is a 2-4 year waiting list for senior housing; there are very few to no beds for those without housing; there are no phone numbers to programs that I can provide them. I had nothing to offer this person.

I sat at my desk and realized I have to do something! It was not a planned decision but someone has got to try to do something. I filed to run for the Sussex County Council - District 1 which covers the Delmar, Laurel, Seaford, Concord, and Gumboro areas.

We don't have the growth that the east side of the state has, but we suffer from that over development and lack of planning as well. Housing costs and rent have skyrocketed in our area. We are also forced to share infrastructure and critical services. The physician shortage is a perfect example. The cost of housing added to their well over $2000 a month student loan payment, makes Sussex County costs unattractive. Medical professionals have not only not kept up with the growth, it has been overwhelmed by it.

A solution would be to require the developer to provide a percentage of the housing to be reserved for senior housing and housing that would be affordable to teachers, doctors, nurses, police and others who provide our needed services. This type of housing would be blended in the community and the reduced cost/rent would only be available to those living in the unit. The zoning permit would require it.

Housing, of course, is not the only issue that needs addressing in Sussex County District 1, but it was the catalyst that convinced me to run for office. If you would like to help me with this mission, please let me know. I could really use your help.

Thank you.