More transparency needed in Rehoboth

Rehoboth Beach Mayor Stan Mills and commissioners got an earful from unhappy residents during a special meeting July 8. 

City officials were recently informed they violated the Freedom of Information Act several times during the process of searching for and ironing out the contract for City Manager Taylour Tedder. Several meetings were improperly noticed, including no time set aside for public comment. The Attorney General’s Office recommended Rehoboth officials make it right by ratifying Tedder’s contract in a public setting with public comment allowed. 

Yet again, Mills and commissioners did the bare minimum. Rather than use the opportunity to allay concerns by fully explaining how they arrived at Tedder’s contract, including a $250,000 annual salary, $50,000 for moving expenses from Boulder City, Nev., and a $750,000 forgivable loan for a home, they sat in front of a standing-room-only crowd and remained mostly silent. 

This entire controversy could’ve been avoided – or at least dampened – with an explanation when the city announced Tedder’s hiring, but they’ve let this snowball. It will continue to be a thorn in their sides for months and possibly years to come unless a more transparent approach to governing is taken. 

Right now, violating FOIA appears to be commonplace in Rehoboth. This is the third time in just the last year the mayor and commissioners have been found in violation. 

FOIA exists for good reason. It allows the public – residents, property owners, business owners, media – to keep tabs on what elected officials are doing. It ensures city officials are held accountable for their actions. It makes sure things are not being done behind closed doors. Democracy dies in darkness. 

Unfortunately, Rehoboth commissioners appear to have satisfied the recommendations of the deputy attorney general. But that minimal action shines a light on another issue – FOIA needs strengthening. Too many elected officials and governmental agencies have learned how to manipulate FOIA in their favor. 

It’s past time – legislators should work to amend FOIA and add teeth to this essential law. In many places around the state, including Rehoboth Beach, confidence in government is waning. Becoming more transparent is a step toward regaining the public’s trust.