Wilmington City County district members serve four year terms. They respond to constituent concerns in their geographical areas and hold committee leadership positions.
Salary: $35,885/year
Description: Wilmington City County district members serve four year terms. They respond to constituent concerns in their geographical areas and hold committee leadership positions.
Salary: $40,676
Party: Democrat
Ms. Lopez did not respond to the questionnaire.
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Party: Democrat
Campaign Website: www.cobyjowens.com
Campaign Email: owens4change@gmail.com
Campaign Phone: (302) 668-3326
Mr. Owens opted not to answer the questions.
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Party: Democrat
Community Involvement: Vincent views his role as a City Council member as a natural extension of his lifelong commitment to community service. As the President of the Northwest Civic Association and Vice President of the First District Planning Council, Vincent has consistently been the go-to person for his neighbors to address and resolve community issues. His dedication to serving the community has made him a trusted and reliable figure in the district and Wilmington. Enhancing transparency and accessibility for constituents and stakeholders are key components of his vision for the district.
Campaign Website: www.electvincentwhite.com
Campaign Email: consumerv@gmail.com
Work Experience: Broker Owner of Provest Commercial Realty, Vice President of Operations Delaware Affordable Housing Group Inc. responsible for community outreach, contract negotiations, and partnership development. Provest Realty was selected as one of the top 100 SBA small businesses in the Mid-Atlantic Region.
Additional Information: Lifelong Resident: Born and raised in Wilmington’s Eastside and Southbridge communities. Community Involvement Since High School: Founding Henrietta Johnson Medical Center and the Southbridge Community Action Association board member. Long-serving member of the Northwest Civic Association and the First District Planning Council. Walked from Wilmington, Delaware, to Dover, Delaware (50 miles) to advocate for the building of more homes and homeownership
Neighborhood/area of residence: City of Wilmington 1st District Council
Campaign Phone: (302) 668-3545
Q: What are the most urgent issues in Wilmington at this time?
A: Quality of Life include litter, illegally parked car; car break-ins, vacant neglected properties
Q: What are your qualifications for office? Can you provide examples of past experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to effectively lead and collaborate with others in a governmental setting?
A: Vincent M. White, as the 1st District Councilmember in Wilmington, includes further initiatives to promote affordable housing, expansion of community development programs, advocating for increased support for first-time homebuyers, and continuing efforts to enhance public safety, community improvement programs, focus on improving quality of life issues and protections of property values. Vincent views his role as a City Council member as a natural extension of his lifelong commitment to community service. As the President of the Northwest Civic Association and Vice President of the First District Planning Council, Vincent has consistently been the go-to person for his neighbors to address and resolve community issues. His dedication to serve.
Q: How will you balance the rights of residents with the commercial growth underway in Wilmington?
A: Enhancing transparency and accessibility for constituents and stakeholders is key to balancing growth.
Q: What can Wilmington do to grow new jobs in the city?
A: Growing new jobs in Wilmington requires a multifaceted approach that leverages the city’s strengths, addresses challenges, and fosters an environment conducive to business and innovation. Here are some strategies Wilmington can implement to stimulate job growth. Here are some ideas that would help create more jobs: 1. Support Small Businesses and start-ups 2. Invest in Education and Workforce; Development 3. Attract and Retain Businesses 4. Enhance Infrastructure 5. Leverage Wilmington’s Strengths. 6 Equitable Development: Ensure job growth benefits all residents by addressing disparities and fostering inclusive economic development. Lastly, Support Minority-Owned Businesses: Provide targeted support.
Q: How could the city council and mayor improve their relationships?
A: Improving the relationship between the city council and the mayor is essential for effective governance and the city’s overall progress. Here are several strategies that can help foster a more collaborative and productive relationship: Collaborative Goal Setting, Regular communication, Respect and Trust, Transparency and Accountability, Community Engagement, and Regular Communication and Celebrate Successes Together:
Party: Democrat
Campaign Website: www.darby4de.com/
Education: Master Degree
Campaign Email: shane@darby4de.com
Work Experience: Community Organizer; Adjunct Teacher; Non-Profit Executive Director, National Guard
Neighborhood/area of residence: North Wilmington
Campaign Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/ShaneNicoleDarby
Community Involvement: Black Maternal Health Care, Community Garden
Campaign Phone: (302) 367-7262
Q: What are the most urgent issues in Wilmington at this time?
A: The most urgent issues in Wilmington: 1. Access to affordable housing and equitable neighborhood development for all 2. Unnecessary, predatory, and/or high fees and fines (i.e. water billing, parking & towing, etc.) 3. Building a strong, sustainable economy that benefits all residents; especially locals & Black people
Q: What are your qualifications for office? Can you provide examples of past experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to effectively lead and collaborate with others in a governmental setting?
A: https://www.darby4de.com/accomplishments My accomplishments show that I am innovative, community centered, and willing to do the work.
Q: How will you balance the rights of residents with the commercial growth underway in Wilmington?
A: Community benefit agreements: Community representatives do need to have a meaningful seat at the table during the key stages of project development. The community should be able to negotiate directly with developers for the benefits most important to them. Community engagement should be a huge factor in granting zoning, permits, etc.
Q: What can Wilmington do to grow new jobs in the city?
A: It is important to build a strong, sustainable economy that benefits all residents. 1. Expand broadband connectivity to all in the city 2. Train and retain a knowledge-based workforce for city jobs- Partnerships with local high schools and colleges 3. More connected and types of transportation: i.e. shareable bikes and scooters 4. Insist on digital inclusion 5. Support creativity and innovation: i.e. investing in the arts community 6. Local hiring initiatives and supporting accessible job training programs. 7. Protect the most vulnerable workers (fast food, hotel workers, cleaners, customer service, etc.)
Q: How could the city council and mayor improve their relationships?
A: The mayor & city council needs to understand that the administrative and judicial branch are equal. The mayor can not be a bully and dictator and then expect not to be held accountable. The mayor should be opened to working with all councilmembers even if they do not political align with them. The leadership on council and for the mayor should have a clear lines of communication and relaying information. There needs to be a process created that will help both sides interpret and apply laws, settle disputes between each other, and protect the rights of each branch. Along with that City Council also needs its own law department that is not connected to the mayor.
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Party: Democrat
Campaign Website: www.johnjohnsonjr.com
Education: Master Degree in Human Resources and Employment Relations
Campaign Twitter Handle: johnjohnsonjr
Campaign Email: electjohnjohnsonjr@gmail.com
Work Experience: SEPTA Employee System Safety Officer in the Accident Prevention & Investigation Division
Campaign Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/johnjohnsonjr
Community Involvement: Delmarva Red Cross Logistics Coordinator, Meals on Wheels Volunteer
Campaign Phone: (302) 476-0719
Q: What are the most urgent issues in Wilmington at this time?
A: -Affordable housing. -Recruiting and retaining police and city employees that provide vital services. -Residency requirements -Task force report due October 31. -How to deal with the unhoused?
Q: What are your qualifications for office? Can you provide examples of past experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to effectively lead and collaborate with others in a governmental setting?
A: I have held the following leadership positions that involves improving the quality of life for all. -Apprenticeship Coordinator -Union President of Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 234 -Union Executive Board Member (TWU) Local 290 -Philadelphia Chapter 1st Vice President of Conference Of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) -Board Member of Labor and Employment Relations Association (LERA) -Red Cross Logistics Coordinator Every listed leadership position I’ve held required me to work collaboratively with different individuals, and groups. Those leadership positions afforded me the opportunity to acquire emotional intelligence, negotiation,team building and conflict management skills. Which I use daily in my work and home life.
Q: How will you balance the rights of residents with the commercial growth underway in Wilmington?
A: The commercial growth should involve residents of Wilmington. They should be trained and hired to work on the construction site. This gives the residents a buy-in, into the development of their city and community. I would form a consortium for both entities.
Q: What can Wilmington do to grow new jobs in the city?
A: Streamline the licensing and inspection process to make it easier for small business to navigate the system without unnecessary delays. Create business development plans for neighborhood business corridors throughout the city. In particular the N. Market St. corridor north of the Brandywine. (our area, 1st, 2nd & 3rd districts) Zoning changes to allow commercial and light industry
Q: How could the city council and mayor improve their relationships?
A: Elect people who are collaborative and are willing to compromise as they work towards a common goal. Open communication Open and respectful communications. Foster transparency in policy and legislative initiatives.
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Party: Democrat
Community Involvement: Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Advocate; Landlord-Tenant Rights Advocate; Re-entry advocate for ex-offenders; Environmental Justice Advocate
Work Experience: DuPont Experimental Station: Laboratory Technician; DNREC: Pollution Prevention Program-Community Outreach; Delaware Department of Corrections: Correctional Officer;
Campaign Website: www.votedonfarrell3rddistrict.com
Neighborhood/area of residence: Eastside of Wilmington
Campaign Email: votedonfarrell@gmail.com
Campaign Phone: (302) 287-4302
Education: Archmere Academy, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
Q: What are the most urgent issues in Wilmington at this time?
A: Bridging and overcoming the widening gap between the haves and have nots. This feeds into the following: the lack of affordable housing, increasing number of unhoused individuals and families, lack of investment in neighborhoods, need for job opportunities that provide a living wage for families, a rising sense of hopelessness leading to the increasing opioid and overdose epidemic that contributes to an increase in crime. The need for activities for youth that provide structure and increasing parental engagement in local schools. Another concern is the neglect of critical infrastructure improvements that haven’t kept pace with the development of condos and high-rise apartments will stress an already overburdened system.
Q: What are your qualifications for office? Can you provide examples of past experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to effectively lead and collaborate with others in a governmental setting?
A: I’m a problem solver, with a knack for and passion for identifying issues. ‘m able to collaborate with others by forming, maximizing, and leveraging relationships to create solutions to make change. As a childhood lead poisoning prevention advocate, I’ve worked with others to increase the lead testing rate and reduce lead exposure by addressing the presence of lead in housing. I participated on the Childhood Lead Poisoning Advisory Committee as the chair of the Primary Prevention Subcommittee. I’ve given public comment, testimony and provided written comment before various state agencies. I’ve given public comment before the City Council and spoke to the Mayor Purzycki, on many occasions about the issue.
Q: How will you balance the rights of residents with the commercial growth underway in Wilmington?
A: I believe that the increased commercial growth is contributing to the increasing division between the haves and have-nots because the neighborhoods are being denied access to investment opportunities. If a developer or corporation receives tax breaks, subsidies, or zoning variances, then something must be given in return. There should be a ‘quid pro quo’ for residents that contribute to neighborhood revitalization by investing in the community, a percentage of every development should include an affordable housing component and providing living wage jobs for families.
Q: What can Wilmington do to grow new jobs in the city?
A: The Coastal Zone Conversion Permit Act, we could attract new environmentally friendly, safe, innovative green jobs. The third district is ideally located to be the main hub of this initiative because transportation, railway and the Port of Wilmington and other waterway infrastructure that is already in place. By reaching out to federal partners and taking advantage of the existing federal and state funding resources, Wilmington could experience an industrial renaissance. Also, by creating an office of environmental justice and sustainability, our city could address and many of the problem of our industrial past by training and hiring Wilmingtonians to improve our city. The benefits are economic and improved health, to name a few.
Q: How could the city council and mayor improve their relationships?
A: The Council and the Mayor should be partners in creating policies rooted in serving the community, that is community inspired, that serves the community and its constituents, with the common goal of moving the city forward. Council and the Mayor must be able to identify and solve common problems and issues that transcends the district and affect the entire city, by being fair and respecting everyone’s freedom of expression.
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Party: Democrat
Ms. Oliver did not respond to the questionnaire.
Party: Democrat
Ms. Fields did not respond to the questionnaire.
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Party: Democrat
Education: College: Harvard University, Masters in City Planning: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Neighborhood/area of residence: 5th District
Work Experience: Christian applies her skills and experience in urban planning and community economic development to make Wilmington’s neighborhoods better places to live, raise a family, and have a business. As Director of Cornerstone West CDC, she organized with residents, houses of worship, and community organizations to launch West Side Grows. For more than six years, she worked with many of you to engage residents in designing new playgrounds, build and renovate affordable housing, re-design streets for pedestrian safety, advocate for community policing, and expand opportunities for youth. Then, as the first Executive Director of the Wilmington Land Bank, she worked with residents to create programs that reflected community priorities and brought Wilmington’s vacant properties back into use. Today, she leads a consulting business that helps non-profit organizations secure the funding and professional services they need to achieve their mission.
Additional Information: Christian believes decisions get better when we work together. She doesn’t just talk the talk, she gets it done! Her experience working at the community level has taught her that residents know a lot, and that your understanding should inform policy-making. Christian is running for Council to be that person in government who will work collaboratively with community members to make things better for city residents and city neighborhoods. This means not just listening to residents but also sharing information with you about the decisions being made by the City administration and Council, helping residents understand how these decisions will impact you, and letting you know how to get involved and make positive change for your families and communities.
Campaign Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090092675707
Community Involvement: Christian serves as Chair of the New Castle County Housing Advisory Board and is the proud recipient of a community service award from Delaware Center for Horticulture. She volunteers with the HOMES Campaign advocating for housing affordability and holding landlords accountable. She is a member of Wilmington’s Fines and Fees Justice Team organizing for reforms to Wilmington’s parking and red-light ticketing and collection practices and affordable water billing. She has also been very active with Green for the Greater Good, a group of neighbors who have led efforts to keep the Rodney Reservoir safe, public and green and give residents the chance to be involved in designing the new park. Christian believes that civic associations are a key way for neighborhoods to identify priorities and speak with one voice to get neighborhood issues resolved. She helped to bring back the 5th District Neighborhood Planning Council and has worked hard to strengthen neighborhood civic associations.
Campaign Email: info@christianforcouncil.com
Campaign Website: christianforcouncil.com
Campaign Phone: (302) 377-4181
Q: What are the most urgent issues in Wilmington at this time?
A: 5th District residents have told Christian that community safety, housing affordability, safer streets, and programs for children and youth are their most urgent issues. As your Council Member, Christian will work for an all-hands-on-deck approach to improving community safety to reduce gun violence, address addiction, and save lives. Christian believes that offering our youth better opportunities should be prioritized as a key strategy for reducing violence, including investing in after-school and summer programs, expanded access to jobs and job training, and better educational opportunities for city youth so they can thrive and achieve their potential.
Q: What are your qualifications for office? Can you provide examples of past experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to effectively lead and collaborate with others in a governmental setting?
A: Christian has been living, working and making a difference in the 5th District for over 15 years. As a member of Wilmington City Council’s Fines and Fees Task Force, Christian successfully worked with representatives from both the community and Council to develop a report and recommendations for reform that was approved by Council. Christian also served on the Rodney Reservoir Advisory Committee appointed by the Mayor. The Rodney Reservoir Advisory Committee supported broad community engagement in the design of the future Rodney Reservoir Park, which resulted in more than $2 million investment from the state of Delaware and is now under construction.
Q: How will you balance the rights of residents with the commercial growth underway in Wilmington?
A: Wilmington’s growth is the product of policy choices. Christian believes that the benefits of our city’s growth should be widely shared. With the right policy mix, Wilmington can promote inclusive growth, where people of all income levels can be part of the City’s future. As your City Councilperson, Christian will work hard to put in place today the policies we need to make sure that current residents can afford to stay if they want to and be part of the positive change. These policies include requiring a portion of new developments that receive city subsidies include units that are affordable to people with regular jobs, rent stabilization, and local hire provisions for projects that are subsidized or contracted by the City.
Q: What can Wilmington do to grow new jobs in the city?
A: Small business is the engine of economic growth. In addition, small and locally-owned businesses are much more likely to hire locally. As a Member of Council, Christian will work to expand Wilmington’s support for small businesses and explore ways to promote local entrepreneurship, including reforming Wilmington’s business licensing fee structure which recently increased the annual license fee for many small businesses. Christian also will work to expand local procurement by Wilmington City government and support the residency requirement for city jobs.
Q: How could the city council and mayor improve their relationships?
A: Achieving positive impact together is the best way that City Council and the Mayor can improve their relationship. Christian is committed to listening to and learning from everyone, including the Mayor, city staff, other Council members, and residents. People don’t always agree or see things the same way. Christian sees this as a strength of our democratic system of government. Christian believes that ideas get better when more people have the chance to provide input. Christian will work respectfully and collaboratively to develop policies that can promote the sustainability of the City and improve the lives of residents.
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Party: Democrat
Campaign Website: www.peggyfor7th.org
Campaign Email: peggyabrooks505@gmail.com
Additional Information: As a single parent, I remained fully committed to raising my three children, supporting them daily with after-school and Saturday cross country, track and field activities. I supported my three children through undergraduate and graduate degrees from University of Delaware (two) and Delaware State University (one). We firmly believe in progress, setting goals, and following through.
Work Experience: I have worked in the Legislative branch as a Deputy City Clerk and in the Executive branch as an Office Manager of local government. Additionally, I have banking experience, with my last position being a Branch Manager, and I have experience in car sales.
Community Involvement: I volunteered for several years at the Emmanuel Dining Room East; I volunteer for my church in the hospitality ministry and I volunteer with the Missionaries serving breakfast at Sojourners’ Place.
Campaign Phone: (302) 439-0161
Neighborhood/area of residence: Green Hill; Union Park Gardens; The Flats; Hilltop
Education: Bachelor of Science
Q: What are the most urgent issues in Wilmington at this time?
A: One urgent issue in the Seventh District is to answer unreturned calls within the community over the last few years. Another urgent issue is to address a problem property in the district that will involve collaborating with the State Representatives, appropriate state agencies and the Brandywine Counseling & Community Services to establish clear rules, and if necessary, consider removing the bus stop public comfort zone(s) to mitigate the issue.
Q: What are your qualifications for office? Can you provide examples of past experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to effectively lead and collaborate with others in a governmental setting?
A: My qualifications for representing the Seventh District as a Wilmington City Council Member include prior experience working for the Wilmington City Council as Deputy City Clerk and working for the Mayor’s Office as Office Manager. I created the Wilmington Awards program for Mayor Baker, per his request, which was a huge success and the program continued after his term and my expired term. As Office Manager, I collaborated with other departments every day with respect being front and center at all times.
Q: How will you balance the rights of residents with the commercial growth underway in Wilmington?
A: Balancing the rights of residents with commercial growth in the city of Wilmington would involve greater notification, keeping the community informed about growth in Wilmington, and to educate the community on the positive benefits of progress..
Q: What can Wilmington do to grow new jobs in the city?
A: For Wilmington to create new jobs, it’s best to review and amend city codes and consider annexing contiguous parcels that can lead to employment opportunities for residents.
Q: How could the city council and mayor improve their relationships?
A: I would like to see the executive and legislative branches of the City of Wilmington improve their relationship through greater communication and transparency, which will lead to increased trust. We can work together to create a team approach to governance. Wilmington is too small for division; we all know each other, and I believe we can use our familiarity to our advantage and to the benefit of our residents as well as our visitors.
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Party: Democrat
Campaign Website: jamesdahlkeforwilmington.com
Campaign Email: jamesdahlkeforwilmington@gmail.com
Work Experience: Financial Services – Retail Bank Branch Manager
Campaign Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/jamesdahlkeforwilmington?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Community Involvement: Previous Chair of the 7th Ward Democratic Committee, Member of Delaware Down Syndrome Association’s Finance Committee, Ambassador for the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce, Treasurer of the Delaware Chapter of Democratic Socialists of America
Neighborhood/area of residence: Little Italy Neighborhood
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Party: Democrat
Campaign Website: https://www.chrisjohnson-de.com/
Campaign Email: christofer.johnson9@gmail.com
Work Experience: Civil Rights Attorney (2018-Present) ; Office of the Governor-Legal Counsel (2017-2018); City of Wilmington Law Department (2013-2017); Private Practice (2009-2013)Civil)
Campaign Twitter Handle: chrisjohnsonde
Campaign Facebook Page: facebook.com/chrisjohnsonde
Community Involvement: Delaware Trial Lawyers Association: 7th District NPC: Delaware Center for Justice Board Member)
Campaign Phone: (302) 281-2018
Neighborhood/area of residence: Westside/Union Park Gardens
Education: Delaware Law School; University of Delaware
Q: What are the most urgent issues in Wilmington at this time?
A: Having lived, worked, and volunteered in Wilmington for many years now, I am all too familiar with the major problems that plague our neighborhoods including lack of job opportunities, the opioid epidemic, and underperforming public schools. To turn the tide on crime and economic stagnation, we have to continue to double down on neighborhood stabilization, focusing on housing and economic opportunities. Right now, there are too many barriers to success for middle and lower-class families. I aim to continue to empower my neighbors by rebuilding civic associations, improving community-police relationships, designating the 7th as a business improvement district, and increasing affordable housing opportunities.
Q: What are your qualifications for office? Can you provide examples of past experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to effectively lead and collaborate with others in a governmental setting?
A: As the current Chair of City Council’s Finance & Economic Development Committee, I have had a key leadership role in helping to stabilize and grow the City in the wake of a once in a lifetime economic downturn due to the pandemic. Wilmington has come back better and stronger than ever. I am a proud graduate of the Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics at the University of Delaware and the Delaware Law School at Widener University. Earlier in my career, as an Assistant City Solicitor, I represented the City of Wilmington and its employees in complex litigation matters in District Court and Supreme Court. I am also a proud small business owner of a Wilmington law firm where I specialize in family law & civil rights litigation.
Q: How will you balance the rights of residents with the commercial growth underway in Wilmington?
A: Responsible and inclusive growth, requires listening to the impacted community and balancing the needs of commercial growth with the rights of residents. Prior to zoning decisions being made, each and every affected resident should be invited to chime in on shaping project to fit into the community. During my time leading the Westside, I have been insistent that each and every major project, including the Flats affordable housing project, take the needs and concerns of residents as the number one priority. If Wilmington continues to strike this careful balance, we will ensure that we have opportunities for all residents and businesses alike.
Q: What can Wilmington do to grow new jobs in the city?
A: Growing new jobs in Wilmington requires doubling down on what has led to previous economic growth in the City. As a City we have to be not only have to be attractive to businesses and corporations, but we have to continue to encourage the small, minority, and women-owned businesses that form the great tapestry that is Wilmington. Having a mix of both large and small businesses, and supporting their diverse needs, will allow Wilmington to grow from the bottom-up and stabilize our middle class neighborhoods. As a City should also continue to investment in workforce development programs in the City, as attracting and keeping top talent in the City will take us to even great heights.
Q: How could the city council and mayor improve their relationships?
A: City Council and the Mayor’s Office has a history of division, and these issues stem from what is happening in our national discourse. As a member of the Democratic Party, I take a stand against division. If you know me then you know that I stand opposed to shouting matches, feuds, and the cancel culture. In City Council, I am always looking for what unites the City rather than what divides us. I believe that honey is a lot more effective than vinegar. That’s why I am always trying to find common ground with the Mayor’s Office rather than division. Progress is easily undone if reformers do not win support. I employ a strong but diplomatic approach to dealing with political adversaries, which breeds cohesion and efficiency within City Hall.
At-large council members serve four year terms and focus on their specific committee objectives and general constituents concerns. Four at-large seats are available to be filled, but each voter may vote for only three candidates. All City of Wilmington offices are elected at the same time, in the “on-years” when the Delaware governor and U.S. President are up for election.
Salary: $40,676
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Party: Democrat
Education: Bachelors Degree Mass Communications/Public Relations Delaware State University. Masters in Public Administration- Wilmington University, Masters in Human Resource Management- Wilmington University
Campaign Email: tish@tishbracy.com
Campaign Website: www.tishbracy.com
Community Involvement: Beyond her professional achievements, Latisha remains deeply engaged in community service, having served on multiple boards and advisory councils, including the Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women. Her dedication to global outreach is evidenced by her leadership role in conducting workshops on Women in Politics at the University of Botswana through the Mandela Washington Fellows Reciprocal Program. Latisha is also a 2014 graduate of Leadership Delaware, Delaware’s premier leadership development program described as “an MBA in Delaware!”
Work Experience: Latisha’s professional background spans government, non-profit agencies, and international corporations, all united by her singular focus: ensuring that individuals have the resources they need to thrive. With over 15 years of experience in government working for the United States Senate, Latisha has spearheaded initiatives supporting education, workforce development, and faith-based programs. Her tenure at IKEA North America Services as Senior Public Affairs Manager, further showcased her ability to bridge business and community interests, leveraging corporate resources for community reinvestment. Tish currently owns a small Public Relations & Project management firm and also works with a local Wilmington nonprofit leading all of their equitable entrepreneurship training and support.
Campaign Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/tishbracy/
Neighborhood/area of residence: Downtown Wilmington
Q: What are the most urgent issues in Wilmington at this time?
A: Strong economy: Wilmington must invest in building quality jobs and ensure our residents are prepared for those jobs when they come. Safe communities: Our residents deserve to feel safe. We need a violence reduction plan and we can only get there by working with communities and partners. Affordable housing: We have to build more affordable housing units and we have to build them quicker by removing unnecessary regulations and streamlining approval. Effective Government: City Council plays a vital role in improving the life of Wilmington residents. Government should work for the people it serves and should be committed to constant community engagement.
Q: What are your qualifications for office? Can you provide examples of past experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to effectively lead and collaborate with others in a governmental setting?
A: I am qualified because I have been doing the job. In December 2022, I was appointed to complete the term of the late Councilwoman Loretta Walsh. Prior to my time on council, I spent over two decades in politics and government leading projects focused on economic development, bringing federal investment to Delaware, and helping families find jobs and opportunities for educational advancement. Since my time on Council, I have led initiatives to provide additional funding for affordable housing, reformed Wilmington’s booting and towing practices, and supported efforts to help our residents start successful small businesses.
Q: How will you balance the rights of residents with the commercial growth underway in Wilmington?
A: Government works for the residents that it represents. Wilmington is expecting a declining budget while our residents are facing challenges. Economic development can be done responsibly and I am uniquely positioned to ensure this happens. Our new and existing business must invest in the City. Government must work with businesses to have strategic investment in every part of Wilmington. Additionally, residents must help inform the types of investments that are needed.
Q: What can Wilmington do to grow new jobs in the city?
A: There is no shortage of jobs available in Wilmington. Wilmington is facing a gap between the jobs that are available and the skills of our residents. We must partner with workforce development programs to provide our residents the skills necessary to be prepared for the available jobs. This is not enough because we must also ensure we are teaching residents transferable skills and matching our workforce development training with jobs of the future. To help grow new jobs we must invest in creating more small businesses. There is commercial space available that we must revamp and allow our local entrepreneurs the ability to access. We must invest in our small businesses as much as we do in attracting large companies to Wilmington.
Q: How could the city council and mayor improve their relationships?
A: There are two branches of government in Wilmington and they act as a check and balance on each other. The city council and the mayor are both tasked with representing Wilmington residents. The relationship between the two branches will work when both are connected with the residents and know where they stand on the issues. Residents can only truly be involved when the government is transparent and provides all information available. Once the government engages residents it will create alignment and truly a shared purpose. However, no two sides will alway agree and simple disagreements should not be seen as a strained relationship, but rather the essence of debate and democracy.
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Party: Democrat
Education: Springfield College, Human Services
Campaign Email: info@mariadcabrera.com
Campaign Phone: (302) 559-9489
Campaign Website: mariadcabrera.com
Community Involvement: Serving on the following boards: Minstry of Caring/Sacred Heart II, Los Jardines, Wilmington Neighborhood Conservancy Land Bank, Community Communications Corporation
Work Experience: Independent Insurance Agent Broker, and Client Manager for Holistic Home Healthcare, LLC
Campaign Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/electmariadcabrera
Campaign Twitter Handle: @Cabrera4Council
Neighborhood/area of residence: Harlan Park/Ninth Ward
Q: What are the most urgent issues in Wilmington at this time?
A: 1. Neighborhood Stabilization: This is key for crime reduction and increasing housing stock. This includes accessible infrastructure. 2. Housing Availability and Affordability: Increasing inventory and ensuring safe, and affordable homes in all neighborhoods. 3. Crime Reduction: Although Wilmington has seen a significant drop in shootings and homicides, until we eliminate all instances, we need to be all hands on deck! 4. Youth Development Centers/Activities: Now more than ever our youth need resources to assist them with learning, as well extra curricular activities. In addition, skill & career development for those who may not be equipped for higher education. Our children need to have alternatives and places to go vs the streets.
Q: What are your qualifications for office? Can you provide examples of past experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to effectively lead and collaborate with others in a governmental setting?
A: First be humble & kind. Prior to being elected as Councilwoman in 2012, I’ve actively served the community for over three decades as a volunteer on over 35 boards/organizations. I understand the importance of compromising & working together for the greater good. My public service began in the office of Cultural Affairs under Mayor Sills. In previous council leadership roles, and now as CC Pres Pro-Tem & Chair of Community Dev. I have successfully collaborated with both my colleagues & administration to passed legislation that is helping stabilize neighborhoods, increase affordable housing, and reduce crime. Including a fair way to reduce parking fines. Leadership is not self proclaimed. You become a leader when others chose to follow you.
Q: How will you balance the rights of residents with the commercial growth underway in Wilmington?
A: Our residents should always be the priority! The commercial growth in Wilmington should offer opportunities for everyone to grow. Commercial growth offers employment and career growth opportunities, as well as an investment in Wilmington’s future. Increasing our tax base allows for the city to continue to invest in our housing and neighborhoods, including our parks and City funded resources that benefit ALL residents. That includes the funding that provides assistance for the water utility, eliminating property tax for seniors, and most importantly repurposing our vacant housing stock to create affordable housing, and stabilize our neighborhoods. Utilize Neighborhood agreements to ensure the interests of our residents are prioritized.
Q: What can Wilmington do to grow new jobs in the city?
A: Continue to invest in neighborhood stabilization. As Wilmington becomes more attractive as a livable, walkable and user friendly city, new employers will be drawn to bring their businesses and employees to Wilmington. Invest in future employees by making sure everyone, especially our residents, all have an opportunity to participate. This includes internships, workforce development, certification and education to better prepare our residents. In addition, reducing recidivism by making sure everyone has the same equal opportunity to prepare and participate.
Q: How could the city council and mayor improve their relationships?
A: First, being respectful towards each other and respecting the powers that both offices hold. The people in both branches of government are public servants, whether elected, appointed or employees. The priority should always be to do what is best for the residents of Wilmington. This can be achieved with more open communication and respectful dialogue. We can agree to disagree, however doing so respectfully. Always remembering the example that is being set, and observed by the public and young impressionable future leaders. Show more kindness and try to see things from both points of view. Never forgetting why we got elected in the first place. It truly is a privilege to serve, not an entitlement!
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Party: Democrat
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Management
Campaign Email: Vote4covington@gmail.com
Campaign Website: Www.vote4covington.com
Community Involvement: Higher Place Outreach
Work Experience: Director of Higher Place Outreach
Campaign Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080820936713&mibextid=ZbWKwL
Neighborhood/area of residence: 1st District- North Wilmington
Q: What are the most urgent issues in Wilmington at this time?
A: Home Affordability Safety Clean streets Obtaining necessary resources for better living.
Q: What are your qualifications for office? Can you provide examples of past experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to effectively lead and collaborate with others in a governmental setting?
A: Please visit my website for more detailed information regarding my past experiences and accomplishments. Www.vote4covington.com
Q: How will you balance the rights of residents with the commercial growth underway in Wilmington?
A: – no response –
Q: What can Wilmington do to grow new jobs in the city?
A: – no response –
Q: How could the city council and mayor improve their relationships?
A: – no response –
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Party: Democrat
Ms. Dobson did not respond to the questionnaire.
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Party: Democrat
Education: Bachelor -Business Administration concentration human resources
Campaign Email: alexhackettfordelaware@gmail.com
Campaign Phone: (302) 252-8982
Campaign Website: alexanderhackett.com
Community Involvement: 100 Black men of Delaware, Monday Club, Kappa Alpha Psi, Delaware State Alumni Association,Community Cares of Delaware
Work Experience: Campus Recruiter PNC, Educator/Behavioral interventist Kuumba Academy Charter School, Staff Assistant/ Sen. Carper/ Confidential Assistant/ Economic Development Administration
Campaign Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/Alexhackett2020
Neighborhood/area of residence: Wilmington/Quaker Hill
Q: What are the most urgent issues in Wilmington at this time?
A: The most urgent issues in Wilmington are deeply personal to me as my family and I navigate them daily: Economic Development, Quality Education, Affordable Housing, and Public Safety. Through my work with the Economic Development Administration, I’ve seen how strategic investments create jobs and stimulate our local economy, positively affecting families. As a former Assistant Dean of Students, I understand how quality education can change lives. Affordable housing is essential, and everyone deserves a safe home. Crime and public safety are pressing concerns for our community. These issues impact our friends, families, and future, and addressing them is essential for Wilmington’s strength and prosperity.
Q: What are your qualifications for office? Can you provide examples of past experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to effectively lead and collaborate with others in a governmental setting?
A: I am a proud graduate of Delaware State University, one of the top HBCUs in the nation. At the Economic Development Administration, I helped deploy $4.6 billion across the U.S., fostering economic growth and job creation. As an entrepreneur, I co-founded Community Staffing Agency, creating over 200 jobs annually to support Wilmington schools. My commitment to education is unwavering, having taught and mentored students. As the director of Community Cares, I serve over 20,000 families yearly through toy drives, back-to-school events, Easter egg hunts, and trunk-or-treats. These experiences showcase my leadership and ability to collaborate effectively, driving tangible improvements for our community.
Q: How will you balance the rights of residents with the commercial growth underway in Wilmington?
A: Balancing the needs of Wilmington’s residents with commercial growth means involving the community in planning and decision-making. We need to make sure that new developments don’t harm our neighborhoods. This includes enforcing zoning rules that keep residential areas protected and ensuring new projects improve infrastructure and provide affordable housing. By working closely with both residents and developers, we can guide growth that benefits everyone. Clear communication and transparency are key to making sure that progress aligns with the needs and values of our community.
Q: What can Wilmington do to grow new jobs in the city?
A: Creating new jobs in Wilmington is a mission I’m passionate about. From my experience with the Economic Development Administration, I’ve seen how targeted investments in education and workforce development can transform communities. We need strong partnerships between local businesses, schools, and government to offer training and apprenticeship programs tailored to our industries. Supporting small businesses and startups with grants and streamlined processes can spark innovation. Focusing on sectors like technology, healthcare, and green energy will diversify our economy and attract new employers.
Q: How could the city council and mayor improve their relationships?
A: Getting city council and mayor on the same page is key to making real progress for Wilmington. From my experience in various government roles, I know that open communication and mutual respect go a long way. We need regular meetings and open forums where both sides can share their priorities and concerns. It’s important that the mayor and city council work together smoothly so we can tackle issues efficiently and get things done for our community. Clear guidelines for resolving conflicts will also help keep things on track. By aligning our efforts and staying engaged with residents, we can create a government that truly works for Wilmington.
The Delaware Journalism Collaborative is a project of the Local Journalism Initiative.
