Gov. Markell Signs Armory Over To Milford

It was an honor to accept the Milford Armory this morning from the Governor of Delaware on behalf of the City of Milford. As many Milford residents know, the Armory has sat vacant for several years since the Delaware National Guard made the decision to consolidate their facilities across the state. The Delaware National Guard was a great partner for over 70 years in our community and they continue to be a good neighbor by supporting the City of Milford as we take over the building. Senator Gary Simpson and Representative Harvey Kenton and Jack Peterman were instrumental in the acquisition as they cosponsored a bill in the Delaware legislator to get the bill passed and on Governor Markell’s desk. Governor Markell and the State of Delaware have been a great partner during this process as they agree that the City of Milford will put this building to great use.

Now that the City of Milford officially owns the Milford Armory, the discussions on how that property will be utilized will begin. I am interested to hear from the public what ideas they have for the use of the building. The property can immediately be used by the Parks & Recreation and Public Works Departments to house equipment and vehicles that will help the City serve residents in the surrounding areas more efficiently. I also believe now is an opportunity for the Police committee and City Council to look at the possibility of rehabilitating the building in a matter that would be conducive to hosting a new police station. Through the police committee, the police department has informed us for several years that the need for a new facility is approaching. I would like to evaluate what that process would look like, if it would be more cost effective for the City and if it would better serve the residents of Milford. All ideas of how that building can be utilized are on the table and I look forward to hearing ideas from the public as I continue to hold public meetings for various neighborhoods and organizations.

The discussion will begin at the committee level where members of council will be able to bring their ideas to the table. These meeting are open to the public, will be posted on the City’s website and sent to local news organizations for publication. The committees will make recommendations to City Council which will then proceed with any activity needed to pursue those ideas.