Wilmington City Council

06/12/2026

Join us NEXT WEEK for our upcoming City Council and Committee meeting. You can participate in several ways: in person in the Council Chambers or Council Committee Room at 800 N. French Street in the Louis L. Redding City County Building, on our page here, on WITN22 YouTube page Channel 22, online at WITN22.org, on TV by tuning in to Comcast Channel 22, or via Zoom.

Citizens wishing to be heard on issues are encouraged to voice their concerns at the appropriate meeting. To view the agenda, agenda items, and instructions on how you can join a meeting via Zoom, visit our Events Calendar at https://www.wilmingtoncitycouncil.com/events/ and click on the meeting you’re interested in joining.

06/11/2026

A hearing has been scheduled for July 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Delaware Court of Chancery regarding Wilmington City Council Member James Spadola’s At-Large Council seat.

The case will address whether the Wilmington City Charter authorizes City Council to declare a duly elected At-Large Council seat vacant when a sitting Council Member changes party registration during their term of office.

Council Member Spadola continues to serve as an At-Large Member of Wilmington City Council while the matter proceeds through the Court.

For additional details, background information, and statements regarding the case, click the link here ➡️ https://us17.campaign-archive.com/?e=5a9579ef21&u=0cadfb50681681a703e325b7d&id=ac4352a0e1

06/10/2026

06/10/2026

🗓 Happening Today, Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. 🗓 Join us for our Education, Youth & Family Services Committee Meeting. To view the agenda and to download legislation that will be discussed during the meeting, visit
https://www.wilmingtoncitycouncil.com/event/education-youth-family-services-committee-meeting-19/
The meeting is open to the public in the Council Committee Room of the Louis L. Redding City County building located at 800 North French Street, in Wilmington. For those who cannot attend the meeting in-person, you still have the option to participate virtually by accessing the meeting at

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81798041449 or listen in only by calling one of the following phone numbers (929) 205-6099 or (301) 715-8592. You will be asked for the Webinar ID. Please dial 884 9134 7939 and then #. You can press # again when prompted to immediately enter the meeting. See less

06/09/2026

On Thursday, June 4, 2026, on behalf of Wilmington City Council President Trippi Congo, 1st District Councilman Coby Owens proudly presented a Wilmington City Council Resolution honoring New Castle County Council Member Penrose Hollins for his extraordinary legacy of public service and his recent receipt of the prestigious Order of the First State, Delaware’s highest civilian honor. 🇺🇸🏛️ 📸 Photography by Yesenia Taveras, Director of Communications for Wilmington City Council.

The resolution reads as follows:

Sponsor: Council President Ernest “Trippi” Congo, II

WHEREAS, it is the sense of City Council to honor individuals, organizations, and significant milestones that demonstrate outstanding achievement and are deserving of recognition and acknowledgment. Council President Ernest “Trippi” Congo, II commends New Castle County Council Member Penrose Hollins, recipient of the Order of the First State, for his steadfast dedication to the people of the City of Wilmington; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Hollins has devoted more than three decades of his life to public service, community advocacy, and civic leadership. In 1997, he made history as the first African American President Pro Tempore of the County Council, breaking barriers in local government and creating opportunities for future generations of leaders. Council Member Hollins is the longest tenured member of the New Castle County Council, where proudly represents their fourth councilmanic district. He is known as a strong advocate for neighborhoods, public safety, economic development, youth engagement, and community empowerment; and

WHEREAS, a Distinguished Alumni of Delaware Technical and Community College, Mr. Hollins served his country honorably in the United States Army, including two hardship tours in Southeast Asia. His portrait can be found on the Theodore Blunt Commemorative Wall, among the honorable Council Members of the City of Wilmington. Among his many accomplishments representing Wilmington’s first councilmanic district, he made a resounding statement on international human rights by becoming the second elected official in the continental United States to sponsor legislation requiring governmental divestment from companies conducting business in apartheid-era South Africa; and

WHEREAS, his commitment to public service has extended beyond elected office through mentorship, volunteerism, and active support of numerous community initiatives, such as the Police Athletic League (PAL), the Kingswood Community Center, Absalom Jones Art and Senior Center. Mr. Hollins is a founding member and former Goodwill Ambassador of Canaan Baptist Church, in addition to previous roles as Ambassador to the YMCA, Board Member of the Diamond State Sports and Learning Center, Chair of the First District Democratic City Committee, member of the Riverfront Advisory Board, and member of Mother African Union Church's August Quarterly Advisory Committee; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Hollins has received numerous awards in recognition of his longstanding commitment to civil rights and ethical leadership, including his induction as a Life Member of the Wilmington Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award, the Outstanding Achievements in Human and Civil Rights Award, and the Legislative Award for Affordable Housing. On March 16, 2026, Mr. Hollins was awarded the Order of the First State, Delaware's highest civilian honor, bestowed upon individuals whose accomplishments have brought distinction and honor to the State.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILMINGTON, that this Council is pleased to recognize the honorable New Castle County Council Member Penrose Hollins for his steadfast leadership, advocacy, and dedication to community empowerment, embodying the highest ideals of public service and civic engagement. “Job well done.”

06/08/2026

On Thursday, June 4, 2026, on behalf of the entire Wilmington City Council, 6th District Councilwoman Yolanda McCoy proudly presented a special resolution recognizing June as National Gun Violence Awareness Month. 📸 Photography by Yesenia Taveras, Director of Communications for Wilmington City Council.

The resolution reads as follows:

Sponsors: Council President Ernest “Trippi” Congo, II and Council Members Coby J. Owens, Shané N. Darby, Zanthia Oliver, Michelle Harlee, Christian Willauer, Yolanda M. McCoy, Christofer C. Johnson, Nathan Field, Latisha Bracy, Maria D. Cabrera, Alexander D. Hackett, and James Spadola

Sponsors: Council President Ernest “Trippi” Congo, II and Council Members Coby J. Owens, Shané N. Darby, Zanthia Oliver, Michelle Harlee, Christian Willauer, Yolanda M. McCoy, Christofer C. Johnson, Nathan Field, Latisha Bracy, Maria D. Cabrera, Alexander D. Hackett, and James Spadola

WHEREAS, the first Friday in June marks National Gun Violence Awareness Month. The Wilmington City Council wishes to remember lives lost to gun violence, honor survivors of gun-related traumas, and raise awareness about this public health crisis; and

WHEREAS, every day, about 120 Americans are killed by gun violence, and more than 230 are injured. In an average year, more than 40,000 die, and another 84,000 are wounded by guns nationally. Nearly eight in 10 murders and more than half of deaths by su***de in the United States involve a firearm; and

WHEREAS, Delaware has the 25th highest rate of gun-related fatalities in the U.S. In Delaware, 195 people were shot in 2024. Firearm deaths and injuries cost the State of Delaware an estimated $714 million annually. In 2025, Wilmington had 64 shootings, a 21% decrease from the year before; however, there is still much work to be done; and

WHEREAS, fi****ms are involved in the majority of homicides nationwide and account for more than half of all su***des in the United States, underscoring the need for continued prevention, intervention, education, and community-based solutions. Protecting the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens works in concert with keeping guns away from people who should not have them; and

WHEREAS, in January 2013, Hadiya Pendleton, a 15-year-old African American girl from Chicago, IL, was shot and killed in a park, just one week after performing at then-President Barack H. Obama’s second inauguration. Hadiya’s friends commemorated her life by wearing orange, a color that hunters wear to be visible and prevent shooting accidents in the woods. Orange is also a color that symbolizes the value of human life. Gun Violence Awareness Day commemorates her birthday and is a tribute to the many other victims of gun violence and their loved ones. On Gun Violence Awareness Day, people are encouraged to wear orange to raise awareness and to reflect on the victims and survivors of fi****ms.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILMINGTON, that this Legislative body recognizes June as National Gun Violence Awareness Month and encourages all citizens of Wilmington to wear orange and support their communities’ efforts to bring awareness to the tragic effects of gun violence and to honor the lives we’ve lost.

06/08/2026

On Thursday, June 4, 2026, on behalf of City Council President Trippi Congo, 6th District Councilwoman Yolanda McCoy proudly presented a Wilmington City Council Resolution honoring Wilmington Department of Police - Delaware Senior Corporal Lavette Williams for her outstanding achievements, leadership, and trailblazing service to the City of Wilmington. 👏🏾🐕‍🦺🚔📸 Photography by Yesenia Taveras, Director of Communications for Wilmington City Council.

The resolution reads as follows:

Sponsor: Council President Ernest “Trippi” Congo, II

WHEREAS, it is the sense of City Council to honor individuals and organizations who have demonstrated outstanding achievement and deserving of recognition and acknowledgment. Senior Corporal Lavette Williams merits such distinction; and

WHEREAS, Senior Corporal Williams is a native of Brooklyn, New York. Her childhood in this vibrant, close-knit community instilled her with a deep commitment to service, leadership, and helping others. She went on to attend Virginia State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Pre-Medicine; and

WHEREAS, for the past eight years, Senior Corporal Williams has faithfully served as a sworn officer with the Wilmington Police Department (WPD). She has consistently exhibited professionalism, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to protecting and serving the residents of Wilmington in a variety of capacities; and

WHEREAS, Senior Corporal Williams found her passion as a K9 handler, becoming the first Black female in the State of Delaware to operate in this role. She quickly established a strong bond with Tyson, her K9 partner, and committed herself to mastering the responsibilities of her new assignment; and

WHEREAS, in addition to her duties as a K9 handler, Senior Corporal Williams is a member of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV/Drone) Team and the Honor Guard. With specialized training in Crisis Intervention, as well as Critical Incident and Stress Management, she supports both her colleagues and the community as a member of the Wellness Team. Senior Corporal Williams believes in being the change she wishes to see in the world, and she strives to inspire our City’s youth through mentorship and encouragement.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILMINGTON, that this Council is pleased to commend Senior Corporal Lavette Williams for breaking barriers in the K9 Unit. We wish her continued success in her law enforcement career. “Job well done.”

06/08/2026

🏆 Congratulations to the Wilmington City Raptors! 🏈 On Thursday, June 4, 2026, 3rd District Councilwoman Zanthia Oliver proudly presented a Wilmington City Council Resolution recognizing the Wilmington City Raptors for their outstanding achievement as National Football Champions. 📸 Photography by Yesenia Taveras, Director of Communications for Wilmington City Council.

The resolution reads as follows:

Sponsor: Council Member Zanthia Oliver

WHEREAS, it is the sense of City Council to honor individuals and organizations who have demonstrated outstanding achievement and deserving of recognition and acknowledgment. Council Member Zanthia Oliver recognizes the Wilmington City Raptors, National Football Championship winners, as one such organization; and

WHEREAS, the Wilmington Raptors have established themselves as a premier youth football organization. Serving boys and girls between the ages of 8 and 14, the team welcomes youth from diverse backgrounds and provide opportunities for participation regardless of prior football experience, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed; and

WHEREAS, the Wilmington Raptors Youth Football League was founded with a vision of empowering and enriching the lives of young people through athletics, mentorship, and community engagement. Through dedicated coaching, mentorship, and educational support, the staff use the transformative power of sports to teach discipline, teamwork, leadership, perseverance, accountability, and sportsmanship; and

WHEREAS, during its first five years as an organization, the Wilmington Raptors have achieved remarkable success on the field, winning two AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) Spring Season Championships, seven AAU Fall Season Championships, and one National Championship, bringing pride and recognition to the City of Wilmington.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILMINGTON, that this Council is pleased to recognize the Wilmington City Raptors for their National Football Championship victory and wishes them continued success on and off the field. “Job well done”

06/08/2026

On Thursday, June 4, 2026, 3rd District Councilwoman Zanthia Oliver proudly presented a special Wilmington City Council Resolution to Delaware State University President Dr. Tony Allen in recognition of the University's 135 years of outstanding academic excellence, community service, and lasting impact. 📸 Photography by Yesenia Taveras, Director of Communications for Wilmington City Council.

The resolution reads as follows:

Sponsor: Council Member Zanthia Oliver

WHEREAS, it is the sense of City Council to honor individuals, organizations, and significant milestones that demonstrate outstanding achievement and are deserving of recognition and acknowledgment. Council Member Zanthia Oliver commends Delaware State University (DSU), formerly known as Delaware State College, on 135 years of academic community service; and

WHEREAS, the Delaware College for Colored Students was established by the Delaware General Assembly on May 15, 1891, becoming one of the nation’s first land-grant educational institutions and Delaware's only HBCU (Historically Black College or University. The College opened its doors in 1892 with courses of study in Agriculture, Chemistry, Classical Studies, Engineering, and Science, reflecting its commitment to intellectual excellence and practical education; and

WHEREAS, after more than a century of educational leadership and achievement, the institution adopted its current name, Delaware State University (DSU), to better reflect its expanding mission, academic distinction, and statewide impact. Throughout its history, DSU has contributed immeasurably to the cultural, economic, and civic vitality of the State. DSU consistently ranks among the top ten HBCUs in America, with a prestigious Carnegie Research 2 (R2) designation and status as the top producer of pilots of color in the country. Under the leadership of Dr. Tony Allen, along with the support of the Board of Trustees, Faculty Senate, and dedicated alumni network, DSU has also set ambitious goals for increasing its athletic profile; and

WHEREAS, with the opening of the Downtown Wilmington campus in 2022, the University’s impact on Delaware’s largest city has expanded significantly from improved access to educational programs and services for residents to innovative partnerships that have improved the quality of life for all Wilmingtonians. As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of our Nation, the Council of the City of Wilmington commends DSU on more than a century of dedicated service.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILMINGTON, that this Council is pleased to recognize the Delaware State University for 135 years of service to the City of Wilmington, State of Delaware, and our Nation. “Job well done.”

06/08/2026