Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Wilmington public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
13 issues
Lead service line and water main replacement funding
Council approved up to $13 million in bonds to replace 3-4 miles of old cast-iron water mains — the fourth phase of the city's lead removal program.
Adams Street Green Infrastructure Bond
An $808,242 bond will cover cost overruns for three bioretention gardens, 1,900 feet of stormwater pipe, 16 manholes and five trench drains around the Adams Street courts.
Leading pedestrian intervals citywide
Willauer promoted the Open Streets event on West Second Street, tied to a federal Safe Streets grant the city is using to build a plan to reduce injuries and deaths on Wilmington streets.
Youth Advisory Council membership and term limits
An ordinance amendment would change how the Youth Advisory Council is composed and how long members can serve.
AI as a public health concern
Council will consider a resolution formally warning that artificial intelligence poses public health concerns — a statement of city concern rather than a regulation.
Housing Subcommittee formation
Council is poised to seat nine members on a new Housing Subcommittee that must deliver recommendations on Wilmington's housing challenges within a year — a potential first step toward new housing policy and funding strategies.
City Council Litigation Spending
Wilmington City Council is taking its Spadola legal fight to the Delaware Supreme Court, and taxpayers have already paid more than $200K in legal bills. That’s money that could have gone to city services, so the appeal is worth watching if you care about how your tax dollars are spent.
Child and Adult Care Food Program Funding
A $525,000 state grant application will reimburse the city for dinners and snacks served to children and adults at community centers and camps through mid-2027.
Plummer Center Demolition Correspondence
Tony Dunn of the 2500 Civic Association submitted correspondence about the $760,000 state-funded demolition of the Plummer Center at 38 Todd's Lane, which the City Clerk read into the public record.
Police State Grant Applications for Crime Reduction
Council backed the police department's application for about $36,900 in state Special Law Enforcement Assistance Funds for a forklift and entry saws — no city matching funds needed.
Delmarva Power Rate Increase Hearings
Delmarva Power has requested another rate increase this summer; council unanimously asked the Public Service Commission to reject it and urged state leaders to act on utility costs.
Rebuilding Mother African Union Church
The historic Mother African Union Church burned down in May 2026. Council chipped in $11,650 from members' discretionary funds toward its rebuilding through the Peter Spencer Family Life Foundation.
Permanent COLA for City Pension Retirees
Property taxes stay flat for FY2027, and retirees retired before 2020 get a $1,000 one-time stipend instead of a COLA — a compromise forced by tight city finances.