DelawareHB 25153rd General Assembly (2024–2026)House

AN ACT TO AMEND THE CHARTER OF THE TOWN OF MILLSBORO RELATING TO TOWN OF MILLSBORO ELECTION DISTRICTS, VACANCIES, AND THE TOWN SECRETARY.

Sponsored By: Richard G. Collins (Republican)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

Faster elections to fill council vacancies

If a council seat has less than one year left, the council appoints a qualified person, who must live in that district if required. If more than one year is left, the council must hold a special election 30 to 90 days after the vacancy. The winner serves the rest of the term. If no one files to run in the special election, the council fills the seat by appointment. Any appointment requires a majority vote of the remaining council and must be recorded in the minutes.

New Millsboro voting districts and schedule

The law sets three voting districts in Millsboro. District 1 is north of U.S. 113 and east of Main Street. District 2 is north of U.S. 113 and west of Main Street. District 3 is south of U.S. 113. Each district must be one connected area and, as practical, have nearly equal population using the latest census. The Town Council must redraw lines by January 1, 2026 using 2020 census data, and after each census by January 1 of the second year. New lines apply to the next annual municipal election, including nominations. For other purposes, they apply when the newly elected council takes office at the annual meeting.

Town Secretary duties and records access

The Secretary must be chosen from Town Council members. The Secretary keeps the town’s books, records, seal, and papers, and is a voting member of all committees. The Secretary works with the Town Clerk on meeting minutes, records executive-session minutes, and circulates them for approval at the next meeting or as soon as possible. After the council adopts an ordinance or resolution, the Secretary signs it. Any voter may inspect the town’s books and records in the presence of the Mayor, the Secretary, the Assistant Secretary, or any council member, at times that do not disrupt town business. Council members may inspect records. Any pay for the Secretary is set by the Town Council.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Richard G. Collins
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Gerald W. Hocker
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 58 • No: 0

Senate vote • 4/17/2025

Passed (2/3 required)

Yes: 19 • No: 0

House vote • 1/23/2025