M. Earl Ransome

The agenda includes committee meetings regarding governance, audit, budget, finance, economic development, and projects. Key items include a CFO review of authority financials and the consideration of multiple resolutions, such as a revised fare schedule for the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, various lease agreements and amendments at the New Castle and Cape May airports, the creation of an ad-hoc IT committee, and a resolution honoring the life and service of Al Fralinger.

The board discussed and received reports on traffic and revenue summaries, statements of income and expenses, operating expenses by division, the capital improvement program, and cash positions. Resolutions were adopted to revise the fare schedule for the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, including implementation of staircase pricing and adjustments to child and passenger fares. The board authorized multiple lease agreements and amendments for hangar and office space at the New Castle and Cape May Airports. An ad hoc Information Technology Governance Committee was established to oversee IT initiatives and strategic alignment. A tribute resolution was passed to honor a former Commissioner and Chairman. The Executive Director provided updates on recent organizational events, legislative outreach, and upcoming infrastructure projects and dedications.

The meeting involves an executive session to discuss potential litigation, long-range planning alternatives, personnel matters, and lease negotiations. Public sessions include the Audit and Governance Committee reviewing the annual audit and an FTA review, the Budget and Finance Committee discussing financial matters, and the Projects Committee reviewing the procurement process, contract payments, and project awards. The Board of Commissioners will also discuss the administration and operation of the Delaware Memorial Bridge, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, the Airports Division, and the Forts Ferry Crossing, along with general personnel, finance, engineering, and information services matters.

The Board of Commissioners meeting will involve an initial closed Executive Session to discuss potential litigation, personnel matters, lease negotiations, and long-range planning. Following the Executive Session, the public committee meetings will address finance matters, first quarter traffic and revenue reviews, economic development projects, and project contract payments and awards. The general board meeting will cover administration and operations of the Delaware Memorial Bridge, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, the Airports Division, and the Forts Ferry Crossing, alongside discussions regarding personnel, finances, engineering, and information services.

The Budget and Finance Committee reviewed the 2025 investment performance and moved a resolution authorizing expenditures for 2026 to the board. The Economic Development Committee approved lease amendments with the Delaware Army National Guard, revisions to the Wilmington Airport's Air Carrier Incentive Program, a lease termination at Cape May Airport, and a utility easement agreement at the Delaware Memorial Bridge. The Personnel Committee received the 2025 Annual Safety Report, noting significant reductions in recordable injuries. The Projects Committee reviewed construction highlights, authorized an agreement for owner's representative services for a new ferry, approved a service agreement amendment for vessel refit projects, awarded construction and structural resiliency contracts, and approved a project close-out.