May-June District 8 Newsletter

Dear Constituents,

To keep you informed, here is what's happening in and around the 8th District this Spring and early Summer. I hope to see you at the 158th Wilmington Memorial Day Parade and ceremony on Friday May 30th.

If I can help you with anything, please give me a call or email at any time.

Sincerely,

Nathan Field 8th District Councilman Nrfield@wilmingtonde.gov  Cell phone: 530-6626 Instagram/Facebook: Fielddistrict8 PS - for additional updates on City news follow @FieldDistrict8 on Facebook or Instagram

Inspiring new documentary on Wilmington History:

In April I was thrilled to attend the premier of a film about a pioneering Dupont engineer made by 8th District resident and distinguished historian Dr Jeanne Nutter:

It profiles the journey of Dr William A Bazzelle from growing up in Arkansas in the 1940s to working as a research chemist in Wilmington starting in the 1960s, where he played a critical role in expanding opportunities for minority scientists and engineers in Delaware. Watch the film here:

This is only the latest in a long line of important work in preserving local history by Dr Nutter. See some of her other films by clicking here.

May 19th & 20th - Civic Association Meetings

Two New Community Building Initiatives

Urban Gardening Series at Delaware Center for Horticulture

I'm especially excited about a new project I'm working on with DCH. The first monthly event (Terrariums) in May was a big hit.

Here's our goal with this initiative:

I find that many people move to Wilmington from outside of Delaware and are unaware of these local cultural institutions. Many also want to be more engaged socially in their neighborhood but don't know how or find limited opportunity for that. So, let's introduce (or reintroduce) people to the DCH in a fun (and free) social setting.

The next 3 Workshops are:

• Tuesday, June 17th at 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.  – Kitchen Herbs ( click to signup)

• Tuesday, July 8th at 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.  – Propagating House Plants

• Tuesday, Aug 12th at 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.  – Cut Flower Arranging

The Brandywine Park Farmers Market Trolley Square residents Max and Katie Kutler came up with a fun new idea, a weekly farmer's market. Every Saturday from 9 AM to 12 noon through October.

I am amazed at the energy level at these events. Speaking of fresh vegetables, don't miss the 40 Acres Farmer's Market, every Thursday at Scott and Delaware Avenue. Legislative News

Retail marijuana - in April the City Council passed the plan proposed by Mayor John Carney. Retail marijuana stores will be authorized if special Zoning permission is obtained on the Wilmington Riverfront and "by right" in industrial areas of the city but not in residential neighborhoods.

Rent Stabilization Ordinance - City Council will likely be voting on a proposed ordinance at the June 5th meeting. Read details here.

City Budget for Next Year Finalized - (see more here ) - to receive a vote at the May 22nd meeting.

Other Updates:

(1) The Bancroft Bridge is scheduled to be completed and opened this coming July.

(2) Stapler Park - the playground is being completely redone with more modern equipment and should be finished this summer. (3) Appeals of Real Estate Reassessment - if you missed the deadline for this year, a reminder that you can appeal every year.

(4) Goober's Diner named top 10 diners in America. Check out the garage of 60 or so classic cars, usually available to the public on the weekends. (5) Rodney Reservoir Park to be finished late summer

(6) DE Art Museums Happy Hours Resume on May 18th. (7) I'm working with State Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha to comprehensively address ongoing traffic safety issues in and around the 8th District. With new people in many of the key positions at DELDOT, the CIty and County, a fresh push, involving our State Rep is in order. More details soon.

Get additional updates on Wilmington news by following @FieldDistrict8 on Facebook or Instagram.