ARTICLES IN THIS EDITION

• NEWS: House Republicans Issue Statement on Troubling State Revenue Estimates
• NEWS VIDEO: New Marker Commemorates Two Brothers Who Helped Escaped Slaves Reach Freedom
• NEWS: Years in the Making, Ground Broken on New Attraction at Trap Pond State Park

House Republicans Issue Statement on Troubling State Revenue Estimates

The Delaware Economic & Financial Advisory Council (DEFAC) met earlier this week to update revenue and spending projections for the current and future fiscal years.

The revenue estimates, made periodically throughout the year, dropped significantly in the October report compared with the last estimate made in June.

The forecasts are key to crafting the state's annual operating budget because officials are mandated to spend no more than 98% of expected incoming funds.

The following is a statement issued by the House Republican Caucus in reaction to the DEFAC report:

Delaware's revenue projections may be down, but our spending continues to be way up. And, that’s the real problem Delaware faces!

Compared to the June projections, DEFAC reports that state revenues are projected to drop by $150 million for this year and next, largely due to lower corporate income tax collections tied to federal tax changes.

Under these new federal changes, corporations can retroactively adjust past tax filings, going back as far as Tax Year 2022. That means many large companies can now file amended returns and claim refunds from the state on taxes they already paid. This is good for Delaware’s economy because it allows companies to reinvest in their facilities and workforce, encouraging job growth and retention.  

Here’s the bigger problem, though: Over the past three years, Delaware’s state budget has grown by $1.48 billion — a 29% increase. Compared to ten years ago, it’s up $2.67 billion — about 68%!

It’s time to have an honest conversation about Delaware's fiscal responsibility and sustainability.

NEWS VIDEO:

New Marker Commemorates Two Brothers Who Helped Escaped Slaves Reach Freedom

Community members, elected leaders, historians, and members of the local Black community gathered in Camden recently for the unveiling of a historical marker commemorating two noteworthy residents and the area's link to the Underground Railroad.

Two brothers, William and Nathaniel Hinkley, worked with famed Underground Railroad Conductor Harriet Tubman to smuggle slaves from the South to freedom in the North. The network of routes, clandestine shelters, and guides was most active during the Antebellum period.

The site of the marker, on the grounds of Caesar Rodney High School, is the former location of Brinkley Hill, a free black community that served as an Underground Railroad stop.

State Rep. Lyndon Yearick (R-Camden, Wyoming, Woodside) said the new marker was a community-driven effort that involved a local social studies teacher, his son, descendants of the Brinkley brothers, and the Delaware Public Archives.

The $2,575 cost of the marker was financed by Rep. Yearick through his Community Transportation Fund allotment.

Years in the Making, Ground Broken on

New Attraction at Trap Pond State Park

-- New Amenity Championed by State Rep. Tim Dukes --

State Reps. Tim Dukes (R-Laurel) and Danny Short (R-Seaford) joined officials with the Department of Natural Resources and the Environmental Control earlier this week to break ground for a new feature at Trap Pond State Park.

The new Cypress Splash Zone is expected to debut by the middle of next summer. Located near the Bald Cypress Nature Center, the 5,000-square-foot water feature will consist of four separate zones, each designed for specific age groups, and one intended for inclusive play for all children and their families.

The site will also include an entry station, restrooms, and a first aid station.

“Today is a really great day for the citizens of Laurel and the state!” said Rep. Dukes. “I have been working for the last three years to make sure this labor of love came to fruition...I am proud to have secured the state funding for this project. It will not only enhance the park’s already top-notch amenities, but it's expected to draw significantly more visitors to our beautiful area during the summer months.”

The splash zone will be easily accessible from the nature center parking lot. Its design and engineering were funded through an Economic Development Administration grant awarded in 2022, State of Delaware Bond Bill appropriations, and a $1.5 million contribution from Sussex County government.

“For many, this will provide an amenity that’s a little closer to home, and maybe it will spur some further tourism and economic development into our inland locations," said County Council President Douglas B. Hudson. "I know this is something the community has wanted for a long time, and it will be a great addition.”

About two-thirds of the funding for Delaware State Parks is generated by the park system through permit sales, cabin and campsite revenue, entrance fees, and user fees for special amenities.

Photo courtesy of Delaware State Parks.