MILFORD, Del.- The city's efforts to phase out porta-potties are in progress, but experiencing delays.
Milford City Council pushed back their approval of purchasing brand new public restrooms for the downtown area this month.
While most council members agree on the need for downtown bathrooms, they are grappling with budgetary considerations and the optimal placement of these facilities.
On Oct. 9, Milford's Public Works Director, Michael Svaby, presented three design proposals to the city council. Based on public feedback, he suggested locating the restrooms either across from the Milford Public Library or behind it, closer to the pickleball courts and the under-construction playground.
However, some neighbors are questioning whether the facilities are worth the nearly $200,000 price tag.
"I don't know if there is enough foot traffic to make that necessary," said Angel Jarvis who operates a business downtown.
Jarvis shared concerns that public restrooms could bring along some loitering issues.
"It might attract some behaviors that we do not want downtown," she said.
Others said they're on board with the idea, but think police supervision would be a crucial factor in keeping the bathrooms clean and safe.
"They definitely need to make sure that no one is camping out in there so it might be extra work for the police force," Milford business owner Abby Shane said. "In the end it would be a good idea because downtown Milford is very good about having [events] so bathrooms would be very useful."
Svaby will present updated plans with further options at the next city council meeting Oct. 23.
Another aspect of the careful consideration for public restroom installations is the flood-prone nature of the downtown area. City leaders aim to select a location that minimizes the risk of flooding without adding too much to the expected cost.
