I oppose the proposal to connect Sussex County’s Wolfe Neck Regional Wastewater Facility and the Lewes Board of Public Works system to Rehoboth Beach’s ocean outfall pipe. The $20 million offer is insufficient, and the environmental risks, particularly thermal shock to marine life, are unacceptable.
Rehoboth Beach voters approved the outfall in 2015 under the premise it was a reluctant necessity – not a regional dumping ground.
Not for endless flow. Outfall serves need, not excess. Balance, not surplus.
Thermal discharge at different temperatures can stress or harm marine ecosystems. Additionally, Sussex County’s growth will burden this system disproportionately.
The simplistic valuation used to justify the $20 million offer fails to account for inflation, regulatory changes or ecosystem protection. This project undermines Rehoboth Beach’s environmental legacy and long-term community interests. I urge officials to reject this proposal and demand transparent evaluation.
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