An Act To Amend Title 7 Of The Delaware Code And Chapter 108, Volume 62 Of The Laws Of Delaware, As Amended By Chapter 99, Volume 72 Of The Laws Of Delaware, Relating To Clarifying The Warner Grant Trust And The Jurisdiction Of The Court Of Chancery As Arbiter Of Disputes Regarding The Warner Grant Trust Land.
The bill modifies existing laws to delineate the boundaries and permitted uses of the Warner Grant Trust Lands, which are primarily in and around Cape Henlopen State Park. It emphasizes that administration must benefit the public and prohibits using these lands for private profit that detracts from their intended use. This legislation aims to resolve ongoing confusion and disputes surrounding the land's governance—safeguarding it against detrimental private developments while ensuring access to the public for recreational and educational purposes.
Senate Bill 6 aims to clarify the roles and responsibilities regarding the Warner Grant Trust Lands in Delaware. Specifically, it establishes guidelines for the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) as trustees, ensuring that the lands are managed for public benefit primarily through conservation, nature education, and public recreational use. The bill arises from historical disputes over the land's jurisdiction and appropriate use dating back to the 1970s when the City of Lewes leased lands for development, raising concerns among the public and the Attorney General at that time.
The overall sentiment regarding SB 6 appears positive, particularly among conservationists, environmental advocates, and local residents who cherish the historical significance and ecological value of the Warner Grant Lands. The intent to protect these lands aligns well with contemporary values around public resources and environmental stewardship. Yet, there is a cautionary tone from some stakeholders who are concerned about ensuring that DNREC's management aligns with the community's needs and that the formulation of future land use does not lean toward commercial interests.
Notable points of contention surrounding SB 6 revolve around the balance of conservation priorities versus potential development interests. As the bill prevents private entities from gaining undue financial advantage from the land, stakeholders focused on economic growth argue that overly restrictive regulations may hinder responsible development. Additionally, there are concerns about how effectively the legislation will ensure DNREC's commitments and whether local voices will be adequately represented in decisions about the use of the Warner Grant Trust Lands.