Five Democrats, one Republican file for mayor of Wilmington

The September 11th Delaware primary will determine which of five candidates will get the Democratic nomination to run for mayor of Wilmington.

Each feels passionate about issues facing the city such as crime, jobs and neighborhood stabilization.  They now have two months to convince the voters that their plan is best. 

Longtime city council member Kevin Kelley puts the focus on strengthening Wilmington’s neighborhoods, while local bail bondsman Robert Bovell says a safer, more vibrant city can result from improving and selling off vacant properties.  Transportation consultant Scott Spencer’s platform includes establishing a homicide unit within the Wilmington Police Department, as well as developing job opportunities for young people between 16 and 21 years old. 

State Representative Dennis P. Williams brings a former police officer’s perspective to the challenge of reducing crime, and says a more responsive government is also needed in the city.  Bill Montgomery, who served in the administration of Mayor James Baker, says training opportunities need to be expanded to make sure Wilmington citizens are able to compete for the jobs of the current economy as well as in the workforce of the future.

No longer in the Democratic race for Mayor are state Senator Robert Marshall or Selara Gatewood, who began her candidacy just a few moths ago. 

Kevin Melloy beat the filing deadline and is the only Republican running in the race.