OUR VIEW
Dewey Beach is $600,000 in the red this year, largely due to a lack of transfer tax revenues. And that’s not surprising.
The town is not unlike others in the area, or around the country for that matter. It seems many municipalities are finding it difficult to cope with the current economy, and it seems nearly everyone is struggling.
So it’s really not that big of a surprise that Dewey is facing financial challenges. Yes, they had a budget surplus last year of $2 million, but the economy was much stronger at that point. Towns, businesses and private citizens have been a bit more fiscally aware in recent months as the economy puts the nation in a near gridlock.
But Dewey Beach, for their lack of funds and patronage in the winter months, is being smart about the challenges they face. As they go to the drawing board for their 2009 budget, they’re making cuts where they can and facing their financial troubles head on.
Instead of sweeping the situation under the rug, they’re being up front and honest with the area’s residents and visitors.
Applause is due to the Dewey Beach Town Council. Times are tough, but this resort town, even in the face of adversity, is tightening up its belt to make sure its residents and visitors have a bright future and taxes are not raised.
Editorial reprinted from the Nov. 27th issue of The Daily Times
