Last week we had a nice turnout for our 2023 Fall Policy Builder Breakfast. The diversity of our membership was on display as we heard from New Castle County Executive candidate Marcus Henry. The position of County Executive is important to the construction industry as it has great influence on creating an environment that is conducive to businesses wanting to establish or expand their footprint. Obviously, this calculation is critical to not only our contractor members but also to our associate members ranging from engineers to attorneys and everyone in between.

Marcus has an interesting professional background with experience in both the public and private sectors. He currently heads a nonprofit organization. He knows the role of county governance through holding a number of positions over the tenure of three County Executives. When it comes to affordable housing development, Marcus worked for both a private developer and the Delaware State Housing Authority giving his insights into the real-world challenges of getting a development project done. He also has experience in the administration of Delaware’s Brownfield Program having served in that division while working at the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.

Marcus expressed his appreciation for the contributions of the construction industry to the county’s economy and the need to improve economic opportunities. We specifically spent time discussing the challenges presented by groups that basically oppose any development. The discussion also included the need to find ways to responsibly expedite project approvals as a means to make the county more attractive to businesses. Marcus also believes his resume provides him with a unique opportunity to have a strong and productive relationship with Legislative Hall.

Marcus Henry is one of many on the 2024 campaign trail. From the New Castle County Executive race to the City of Wilmington Mayor’s race to the Governor’s race, the DCA Government Relations Committee will continue to seek to create opportunities for our members to be informed of their choices for representation.