New Castle County executive orders greater transparency in land development

NEW CASTLE– In a move to enhance public awareness and engagement in land development activities, New Castle County Executive Marcus A. Henry has issued an  Executive Order, mandating additional public notice requirements for land development projects.

The order aims to ensure that residents, state and county officials, and civic and business organizations are well-informed about proposed development plans.

According to Henry, the initiative promotes transparency and allows citizens to participate more actively in the decision-making process regarding land use.

“We believe that a more informed public is essential for fostering a vibrant and engaged community,” Henry wrote in a statement to Delaware Live. 

Under the directive, the Department of Land Use will continue its practice of issuing a weekly notice listing all newly submitted development plans. This notice will include key details about each project and provide a link to the county’s website for further information.

These updates will be shared with state legislators, county council members, and local organizations that have registered their contact information with the county.

Beyond distributing development notices, the Department of Land Use has been instructed to expand public outreach efforts. This includes using public notices, community outreach programs, and educational initiatives to ensure residents are fully informed about upcoming land development applications.

“This order ensures that our citizens, local businesses, and civic organizations have better access to information about development activities, enabling them to be active participants in decisions that affect the future of our neighborhoods.”

The order also outlines measures for monitoring and reporting the effectiveness of these transparency efforts. The County Executive’s Office, in collaboration with the Department of Land Use, will provide regular updates on the public notice initiative’s progress and impact.