Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Milford public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in water utilities
Wilbur Street Storm Drainage
Commissioners say heavy rains now flood downtown streets regularly. Much of downtown sits in the 100-year floodplain, and impervious pavement keeps growing.
Net metering rule change for solar customers
New state law (Senate Bill 175) now lets residential and farm solar customers roll excess energy credits over indefinitely instead of losing them at year's end. Businesses won't get the carryover — the city is using its option to cap non-residential credits to protect electric fund finances and discourage oversized solar installs.
Water allocation with DNREC
Milford proposed new water allocations to DNREC almost three years ago and hasn't heard back. Even under worst-case projections, the city only slightly bumps its permitted peak withdrawal.
Lead service line notifications
The city is mailing letters to residents with unknown or galvanized water service lines as part of the state's lead service program, aiming to identify all line materials by 2034. The city is responsible up to the meter pit; homeowners beyond that.
Northwest water infrastructure: tank and second well
Milford is building a 300,000-gallon water tower at the Milford Corporate Center and investigating a second well there, because wells 15 and 16 in southeast Milford aren't producing enough. With 400-500 new homes coming online each year, council members pushed for a citywide water usage master plan covering both quantity and quality.
IQ Fiber Broadband Initiative
IQ Fiber is ready to start construction on fiber internet across Milford, beginning at the SBA tower site, with resident outreach via postcards, door hangers, and a planned town hall.
Verizon Underground Utility Relocation — Milford Corporate Center Phase 1
Three Verizon underground lines conflict with planned stormwater pipes along Milford-Harrington Highway. Council authorized up to $79,485 from Realty Transfer Tax Reserves, and DelDOT TIF reimbursement is likely.