New Castle County Council Discuss Concerns Over Wilmington Council's Security Proposals

Several city officials have expressed concerns for their safety amid growing frustration from residents, leading to calls for new rules on building access and public protests.(Photo by freepik)

New Castle County Council members expressed concern this week over proposed changes by Wilmington City Council that could impact public access and security policies in the shared City-County Building.

During Tuesday’s executive committee meeting, Kevin Caneco alerted colleagues to a developing ordinance being considered by Wilmington officials that would increase security protocols in the facility, including potential restrictions on bringing signs into public spaces.

“I just want to know, whatever the Wilmington City Council wants to do, that’s fine,” said Caneco. “But we’re going to hopefully try to keep our body separate from whatever they’re doing, and allow folks to express their First Amendment rights in this building, as we always have.”

Caneco emphasized the need for the county to maintain its own legislative independence and public access standards, even while occupying a shared space.

“They got a lot of drama going on, but at least here, we’re going to try to keep things level and cool,” he said.

In recent months, Wilmington City Council meetings have been emotionally charged with public comments—particularly during debates on rent stabilization—prompting increased security presence. Several city officials have expressed concerns for their safety amid growing frustration from residents, leading to calls for new rules on building access and public protests.

Council President Monique Williams-John responded by acknowledging the importance of safety, particularly for county employees who frequent the building.

“I do have some concerns,” she said. “So I want to make sure that I am safe, even when I’m going in the garage, I want to make sure there is someone here just in case something does happen.”

Others emphasized the need for collaboration and careful monitoring of how any proposed changes by Wilmington could affect county proceedings.

“If those issues overflow and become our issues, then we can act to address it,” said Councilman George Smiley. “But right now, it’s not.”

While no formal vote was taken by County Council, members signaled a need to monitor the situation closely and ensure that any changes implemented by Wilmington do not compromise New Castle County’s autonomy or its commitment to public engagement.