Dear Constituents,
Here's my November-December newsletter with updates on key issues in and around the 8th District.
As always, please don't hesitate to reach out if you have a concern. I'm here to help. Sincerely,
Nathan Field
8th District City Councilman
Cell: 302-530-6626
Email: Nrfield@wilmingtonde.gov
PS - If you want to be added to the email or mailing list to receive future updates, please send a text, call or email.
Rockford Tower "Winter Lights" Kickoff Celebration
Led by several neighbors of the Tower who aim to create a new Fall tradition centered around our city's most famous landmark, this is a fundraiser to benefit two local non-profits that promote the natural beauty of the Rockford Park area: Friends of Wilmington Parks and the Brandywine River Restoration Trust.
Tickets are $10 and can be purchased here. Thanks to my fellow City Council members James Spadola and Latisha Bracy for helping organize the family friendly event which includes:
live music from the band Churduroy
local artists who specialize in painting Wilmington scenes
food trucks and drinks for purchase
Tower will be open to climb.
And it will conclude at 5pm with the official seasonal lighting of the Tower,
Globally Significant Art Exhibit Comes to Wilmington
On loan from one of the top Art museums in Europe, the "Rossettis" will be on display through January. Read here for more details.
Promoting Digital Equity
In my last newsletter, I mentioned an effort, along with State Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha to organize internet instruction at senior High rises, such as Lincoln and Luther Towers, in response to concerns we have been hearing from residents of these buildings.
It was a pleasant surprise to learn in October that the head of the newly formed Delaware Broadband Office recently moved to Wilmington and this is a core area of the office's focus.
We are planning an event in December to explore in greater depth the most effective ways to do this. More on this soon......
Debate Over 5 year Residency Requirement for City Employees There is ongoing discussion about what the City rule should be regarding a "residency requirement" for City employees.
On Thursday October 19th an Ordinance to remove the Residency requirement completely did not receive a vote due to significant opposition from meeting attendees. Read more (here and here).
In November, two new ordinances will be discussed at the City Council:
The First Ordinance, would keep the residency requirement as it currently exists.
The Second Ordinance, would allow City workers to live in New Castle County to meet the residency requirement.
Update on 2 Major Proposed Real Estate Projects
Gibraltar:
In May, the City negotiated a sale agreement with the Owner of the Gibraltar mansion for the City to take over the Mansion property. Closing has not taken place. The agreement also includes discussion about plans for the two adjacent properties, 1601 Brinckle Avenue and 1600 Greenhill Avenue and the public right of way in the 2500 block of W. 16th St.
The sale agreement is being renegotiated. That renegotiation is expected to be completed within 60 days.
I am keeping neighborhood residents aware of all relevant details.
Proposed Building at 1021 Gilpin Avenue - 130 units, 130 parking spaces
In December Berger Communities plans to seek two variances from the Zoning Board of Adjustment to build a 130 unit, with 130 parking spots, building at 1021 Gilpin Avenue.
Fun November Social Events
Live Music at Howard Pyle Studio for Art Loop
Friday November 3rd - Great Local Artists in Action
Every Tuesday - Tap House Beer Runners + Weekly Running and Social Club. New in town? Looking to meet new people while exercising? Meets every Tuesday night at 6:30 in front of Trolley Square Tap House for a run followed by socializing at the Tap House. Follow on Instagram for more details.
Every Wednesday - "Pickle at Lovering"
The nation's fastest growing sport is developing a huge following in the City of Wilmington. Every Wednesday night at 5:30 at Lovering Avenue for open matches, See more information via their Instagram site.
Monument Walk - Saturday November 10th - Brandywine Park
Brandywine Park is filled with notable historic monuments. Historian Liz Androskaut will give a two hour monument walk, telling their stories.
Other Updates Soldiers and Sailors Monument Uplighting is scheduled to be finished by end of November. Fixing the Issues with LED Lights
DELMARVA installed four test lights at Crawford Circle in Wawaset Park. These are less bright LED lights. Please check them out and let me know if you have an opinion.
Bancroft Bridge to Open in April 2025 On March 28th of this year, the State of Delaware gave a presentation on the way forward. stating the path to completion of the bridge in April of 2025. See the full presentation with more details here. PS - If you want to be added to the email or mailing list to receive future updates, please send a text, call or email.