Mark Whitfield reflects on 2024, looks ahead at 2025

Mark Whitfield

City Manager Mark Whitfield took time to reflect on 2024 and look ahead at 2025.

Whitfield joined city government eight years ago as public works director and became city manager in 2020. He told the Milford City Council in late 2024 that he would not seek a renewal of his contract and would retire this May.

Related: Whitfield to retire next May as city manager

As public works director and city manager, Whitfield says he developed a robust capital improvement plan the city is implementing.   From a financial perspective, the city has healthy reserves with good financial policies in place.

The Delaware League of Local Governments recognized Whitford as the 2023 Delaware City Manager of the Year.

Looking Back at 2024:

What do you consider the most significant development or change in Milford during 2024, and how did it affect our community?  The number of new houses finished or going up and the number of developments that were approved and/or starting construction has been significant.   The State claims we have had nearly a 25% growth in population in the last 5 years.   That has affected everything from roads/traffic to schools and commercial establishments.

Which under-reported local story or trend from 2024 deserved more attention, and why was it significant for Milford residents?  Plans were finalized for the Milford Corporate Center in June, and bids were awarded in December.   This business/industrial park will have a positive impact in attracting businesses and companies to Milford.

What was the most positive change or development you observed in our community this year?  People have become more aware of what is happening in local government.   It may have been a single issue that brought that interest, but it will be interesting to see if that trend will continue or wane.

How has Delaware’s character or community dynamic shifted in 2024, if at all?  From local elections to the gubernatorial election to the national election, there seems to be more of a shift to conservatism, but that’s just my observation.

What local achievement or milestone from 2024 makes you most proud of our community?  Recently, the City was recognized by the Human Rights Commission for having the highest score for diversity in the State, beating out the last year Wilmington’s highest score.   I think the City staff is a reflection of the community, which is diverse and accepting.  That’s something we all should be proud of.

Looking Ahead at 2025:

Which existing community strength could be better leveraged to improve life in Milford?  While it is not talked about much, the community’s diversity is a strength we should highlight. It will help attract companies who may be considering coming to Milford.

What specific development or trend should Milford residents pay close attention to in 2025?  Housing and education.   We are improving in both areas, but there is still much to be done.   Affordable and workforce housing will be discussed at length over the next year.   Future plans to address school overcrowding will also be addressed over the next year.

What gives you the most hope for Milford’s future? I think Milford is poised on the edge of greatness.  When you have leaders from other communities as well as State officials wanting to know what we are doing in Milford that is attracting the growth in population and the investment in infrastructure, it is a good sign that we are creating the model for others to follow.

Which areas of Milford’s life (e.g., infrastructure, education, business, healthcare, culture) need the most attention in 2025?

• Education. I know improving the conditions for learning in our schools is paramount, and I also know that the leadership at MSD is doing a great job of addressing it.
• Business. As the population continues to grow, we will need those stores and services to serve the growing population.   Additionally, the MCC will provide opportunities for business growth and expansion within the City.
• Healthcare. Having sufficient number of healthcare professionals to serve the growing population is paramount.

What’s one bold prediction you have for Milford in 2025?  Over the next year, we will see unprecedented growth in retail and commercial square footage space.

Coming tomorrow: Jo Schmeiser, Milford Chamber of Commerce