County Council Votes to Recognize Juneteenth as Official Holiday

In a recent government meeting, New Castle County Council discussed significant amendments to the county's holiday schedule and approved several community grants.

Councilwoman Kilpatrick introduced a proposal to amend the New Castle County Code, specifically Chapter 26, Article 3, Section 26.03.1403, which pertains to holidays. The proposal aims to convert two existing holidays—Lincoln's Birthday and Columbus Day—into two floating holidays, while also designating Juneteenth as an official county holiday. Kilpatrick emphasized that the floating holidays must be used by the end of the year and cannot be transferred or paid out, allowing employees flexibility in choosing when to take them. This change is expected to maintain the total number of holidays at 13.5, even with the addition of Juneteenth.

The council also approved several grants aimed at supporting local organizations. A $2,500 grant was awarded to Delaware Urban Greens for a community garden project. The Brandywine 100 Fire Company received $2,000 to enhance outdoor lighting for safety, coinciding with their centennial celebration. Additionally, the Clayton Place Maintenance Corporation was granted $620 for stormwater channel repairs, while Newark Union Corporation received $824.89 for marking veterans' graves and installing a Revolutionary War monument. Other grants included $2,500 for youth programming from Capital Mainstream Leadership and $1,000 for restoration efforts at Friends of Zohr Incorporated.

These initiatives reflect the council's commitment to community development and recognition of significant cultural events, such as Juneteenth, while also addressing local needs through targeted funding.