CAMDEN, Del.- Time is running out for the Camden-Wyoming Sewer and Water Authority. Delaware Superior Court Judge Robert Young issued a recent opinion stating that according to Delaware law, the authority has to release employee salary information to the public. The authority refused.
People who live in Camden had various reactions to the court's ruling and the authority's subsequent response.
"It seems like they're hiding something. If it's not that big of a deal, or if it is, why not just tell us," said Bianca Trivits or Camden.
"I think they should get paid for the work that they do. (Knowing their salaries) doesn't really make any difference to me," said Carrie Gibbons of Camden.
The issue began last May, when Georgette Williams, the treasurer for the Town of Wyoming, submitted a request for their salaries. The authority denied the request, stating it was not classified as a "public body."
The court ruled the authority is a public body because it either is supported in whole or part by any public funds; expends or disburses public funds, including gifts or is charged by any other public official, body or agency to advise or make reports, investigations or recommendations.
Williams then filed a lawsuit with Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden.
No one from the authority would speak with WBOC on- or off-camera.
Biden released this statement, reading in part: "The law clearly gives Delawareans access to public information about their government. The sewer and water authority is a public body and the salary information sought by this citizen must be released."
Camden resident Terri Hodges said she does not understand why the authority is holding back.
"Transparency is always the best policy and if there's nothing to hide there's really no reason not to report it," Hodges said.
The authority is expected to release a statement sometime this month.
Members have less than 30 days to appeal the decision.
(Photo: WBOC)
