The Joint Sunset Committee is considering requiring state officials to be more open about how they invest money in economic development projects.
Two lawmakers on the committee, Sens. Bryan Townsend (D-Newark) and Dave Sokola (D-Newark) especially urged more transparency of the agency including the use of the strategic fund, which gives millions in incentives to businesses locating or expanding in Delaware.
State economic development director Alan Levin says about 75 percent of all these transactions go through public meetings, but says his agency is open to recommendations.
“There’s a knowledge and responsibility that we have and we try to execute it the best way we can," Levin said. "If there are suggestions on how to do this better, we’re certainly free and willing to listen to them.”
He didn't offer any immediate solutions on how to improve that communication.
Townsend noted he understands revealing proprietary information can be harmful to attracting businesses to the First State, but that information needs to be more accessible to the public regarding these multimillion dollar deals.
“We certainly have to be aware of the importance of having negotiations be sufficiently confidential," he said. "We have to understand the importance of trying to do better than other states in attracting companies to Delaware."
"We also have to give constituents information that gives them faith in the program, especially at a time when we’re asking so many constituents to sacrifice so much.”
He says he’ll advocate for further transparency as the committee begins crafting recommendations.
A final report will be sent to the entire General Assembly later this spring.
