Georgetown, Del., July 15, 2025: Sussex County’s Planning & Zoning Commission has a new voice in the conversation when it comes to the issue of growth in southern Delaware.

County Council, at its Tuesday, July 15, 2025, meeting, appointed Jeffrey G. Allen of Laurel to a seat on the five-member panel, a Council-appointed body that reviews and gives consideration toward subdivision applications and other land use requests. The appointment will take effect Aug. 1 and last through June 2028, when the three-year term ends.

Mr. Allen, a retired insurance claims manager, is new to County government, but not the world of local public service. He was elected to the Laurel School District’s board of education, serving as vice president for two of his five-year tenure. Mr. Allen said he looks forward to expanding his service to County government, as zoning and land use rules affect all residents and land owners.

County Councilman Matt Lloyd nominated Mr. Allen to fill the seat held by Robert C. Wheatley, whose three-year term expired June 30, but remained on the Commission to close out several pending matters awaiting action from the body. Mr. Lloyd, who was sworn into office in January, thanked Mr. Wheatley for his 30 years of service to the County – nearly half of that as chairman – but said the timing seemed right to bring a fresh perspective to the County’s land use process.

“"I’m grateful for Bob Wheatley’s years of steady leadership,” Councilman Lloyd said. “With Sussex County at a turning point, Jeff Allen brings a needed shift in perspective and a strong record of public service. I look forward to working with him.”

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