As part of the Rehoboth Beach City Council's efforts to increase security, Rehoboth Beach commissioners are considering implementing a court security fund that would add $10 to every criminal and traffic ticket.
Alderman Court 37 Judge Renee L. Bennett made the recommendation during a Feb. 5 commissioners workshop. He said the city is allowed to impose fines under state law enacted in 2007, and Rehoboth is the only municipality in the state with an aldermen's court that does not include additional fines. .
Bennett, who was first appointed to the Rehoboth City Council in June 2013, said the money could be used for things like computers, equipment, training and security improvements. The courtroom now has a panic button, but that's about it, she said.
In addition to the safety fund, Bennett also recommended updating city codes to reflect state codes when it comes to driving without vehicle insurance. He said the city code includes the amount of the fine, but not the state's additional penalty that could suspend a driver's license.
Bennett said state law calls for a six-month license suspension. The city is not in charge of enforcement, but if penalties are to be imposed, it should be included in the text.
After the presentation, Bennett said he did not have an estimate of how much revenue the fund would generate annually.
Commissioners reached a favorable agreement on the recommendations and will vote on both at their Friday, February 16th meeting.
