AGP Executive Report

Wildfire Mutual Aid: Delaware Forest Service is sending a 17-member wildland hand crew to help fight northeastern Minnesota wildfires, with a separate earlier deployment of a Delaware engine crew already on the ground. Public Safety: A New Castle County apartment fire in Milltown sent one person to the hospital for smoke inhalation; firefighters also rescued a cat and two dogs, and the cause is under investigation. State Government: Gov. Matt Meyer issued new conflict-of-interest rules for Delaware’s unclaimed property task force, tied to the fiscal year 2027 bond bill. Energy & Policy: A new Delaware battery storage report estimates about $927 million in savings over 10 years, with potential to top $1 billion when reliability and emissions benefits are included. Community & Environment: Delaware Coastal Cleanup volunteer registration is open for the Sept. 19 event, with sign-ups due Sept. 8. Business: SLM Corp., based in Newark, reported Q2 net income of $58.5 million, missing Wall Street expectations. Culture: CAMP Rehoboth will host an Aug. 7 reception for “Rising Tides,” an art exhibition by Dianna Poindexter.

Wildfire Response: Delaware Forest Service is sending a 17-member wildland firefighting crew to Minnesota to help battle lightning-caused wildfires, with operations expected to start Monday. Public Safety: Delaware State Police are investigating shots fired at a Lincoln home on Silver Maple Drive; no injuries were reported. Fatal Crash: Police say a 73-year-old Seaford bicyclist was killed in a hit-and-run on Woodpecker Road; the driver fled. Community & Health: Novus Health Services opened in Milton, offering adult sexual health and HIV/STD care plus medication-based support for alcohol or drug dependency. Local Sports & Events: Rehoboth Beach Patrol won the 49th Lifeguard Olympics, and Harrington Raceway crowned Delaware Standardbred Breeders Fund winners during the Delaware State Fair program. Politics & History: Milford Public Library will host a Civil War-era Delaware politics talk Aug. 8.

Local Public Safety: Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal hit-and-run in Seaford where a 73-year-old bicyclist was struck on Woodpecker Road and the driver fled; investigators say the suspect vehicle may have passenger-side damage near the turn signal. Housing & Real Estate: Delaware’s housing market picked up in June, with 1,401 homes sold (up 8% from last year) and more listings and inventory, while prices stayed relatively steady. Health Policy: Gov. Matt Meyer signed new Delaware laws aimed at lowering health care costs and expanding access, including a measure protecting nonprofit hospitals from private equity purchases. Measles Update: Delaware confirmed a second measles case in more than a decade, bringing the total to five, with contact tracing under way and most patients unvaccinated. Environment & Community: Sussex County pulled land-use applications from review after Delaware adopted an affordable housing law that changes how some developments can be approved. State Fair & Community Life: The Delaware State Fair kicked off in Harrington, drawing visitors statewide. Weather & Travel: Delaware gas prices rose, with the state average reported at $4.15.

Armed Robbery: A 14-year-old Newark boy faces four felony charges after Delaware State Police say he robbed a candy seller at gunpoint in a Kirkwood Highway parking lot, and was later arrested at a motel with a loaded handgun. Road Rage Guns: State Police say a Smyrna man pointed a handgun during a Route 1 dispute; he turned himself in and was charged with felony aggravated menacing. Public Safety & Justice: Protesters briefly blocked I-95 in Wilmington after the police shooting death of Kadir Skinner, calling for more transparency and reform. Health Watch: Delaware has declared a measles outbreak with five confirmed cases, as national measles counts hit a 35-year high. State Fair Focus: The Delaware State Fair opened in Harrington with weather a highlight, plus family favorites like the 4H youth lawn tractor competition. Local Business: M&T Bank named Krista Phillips its Delaware regional president, effective July 1. Courts & Policy: Oregon and other states sued the federal government over new FEMA/DHS grant conditions tied to election and immigration requirements. Science & Environment: A new coastal pathogen database aims to help track microbial health risks in nearshore waters.

Human Trafficking Crackdown (New Castle County): New Castle County Police raided Crystal Spa in North Wilmington, arresting operator Nan Son Yim and charging her with forced labor and sexual servitude; investigators say three spa workers were victims and are receiving support, while police continue searching for the alleged owner. Armed Robbery Arrest (Delaware State Police): A 14-year-old was arrested for an armed robbery tied to the Prices Corner Shopping Center parking lot, with charges including first-degree robbery and firearm offenses; he’s held on $120,000 bond. Public Health Alert (Measles): Delaware health officials confirmed a measles outbreak after a first case in more than a decade, with additional cases following and warnings to clinicians about symptoms and spread. Wildfire Aid (Delaware Forest Service): A second Delaware wildland hand crew is heading to northeastern Minnesota to support firefighting efforts, joining an earlier brush-truck unit. Local Safety & Weather: Delmarva is seeing a cooler, drier stretch heading into the weekend, while the broader region faces flood risk from a storm system. Community & Events (Delaware State Fair): The Delaware State Fair opens in Harrington amid heightened attention to health and safety as officials monitor the measles situation.

Public Safety: Delaware State Fair opened Thursday as the state confirmed a measles outbreak in Kent County, with health officials reporting five total cases this week (four unvaccinated adult men; a fifth fully vaccinated person with mild symptoms). Officials say vaccinated fairgoers can attend, but unvaccinated, pregnant, immunocompromised, or too-young residents should contact a provider if exposed. Crime: The FBI is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to arrests in Wilmington’s March quadruple shooting that killed three people. Courts & Accountability: Delaware Chancery Court ruled Thursday that Destiny XYZ’s controlling founder used an unfair scheme to squeeze out a co-founder, restoring minority ownership and finding fiduciary-duty breaches. Politics & Funding: Delaware is among states in a multistate lawsuit challenging Trump administration conditions on FEMA/DHS disaster and counterterrorism grants tied to voter data sharing and immigration enforcement. Local Incident: Police charged a 13-year-old in Wilmington with attempted murder after a July 3 fireworks assault left a man in critical condition and a woman hospitalized.

Defense & Diplomacy: The House narrowly passed the 2027 National Defense Authorization Act, setting up a record $1.15 trillion Pentagon funding fight in the Senate as the Iran war drags on. Local Politics: Delaware lawmakers approved wide-ranging alcohol law changes, including new liquor license types for bottle clubs and special events venues. Public Health: Delaware confirmed its first cyclosporiasis case as the national outbreak grows, and the state also declared a measles outbreak after new cases tied to unvaccinated patients. Energy & Environment: A bid to lift the Delaware River Basin fracking ban failed in Congress, keeping protections for millions who rely on the watershed. Community & Safety: Delaware’s Sober Rides program continues helping residents get home safely, while officials also discussed upgrades to emergency communications statewide. Business: Fieldpoint Private expanded its banking team, and Delaware’s economy saw more housing and development funding announcements.

Dover Military Honors: President Trump attended a dignified transfer at Dover Air Force Base for four U.S. service members killed in the Middle East, including Pvt. Isabella Gonzales of Carrollton, Texas, and later flew the grieving family of 1st Lt. Tyler Feehan to Georgia on Air Force One. Red Sea Shipping Risk: Houthis claimed attacks on Saudi oil tankers near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, while the UK’s maritime tracker confirmed at least one tanker was hit and crews fought a fire—raising pressure on global energy routes. Delaware Health Alert: Delaware declared a measles outbreak after additional cases, with officials urging vaccinations as the number of confirmed infections climbed. Local Health & Food: A Cyclospora outbreak is prompting restaurant caution and boosting interest in local produce, with Delaware officials saying there’s no sign of a broader state problem tied to lettuce. Housing Boost: U.S. Sens. Coons and Blunt Rochester and Rep. McBride announced nearly $1 million in federal funding to expand affordable, energy-efficient homes in Kent and Sussex counties. State Tech Upgrade: ChristianaCare is pushing ahead with its Epic electronic health record rollout ahead of an Oct. 3, 2026 go-live. Community Grants: Cape Henlopen State Park will get a new ADA hydration station at Deauville Beach after receiving an AARP Community Challenge grant.

PFAS Settlement: Chemours agreed to a $450 million settlement over alleged “forever chemical” pollution tied to the Cape Fear, Delaware River, and Ohio River, raising fresh questions about whether the deal lets the company keep making the same chemicals. Dover Ceremony: President Trump is set to attend a dignified transfer at Dover Air Force Base for four U.S. service members killed in the Iran conflict, as the Pentagon identifies additional deaths and the war grinds on. Iran Escalation: Trump warned the U.S. will “destroy” one Iranian bridge or power plant for each Strait of Hormuz attack, while oil prices jump amid continued strikes. Severe Weather: Storms and flash flooding hit the region, with New Jersey confirming two tornado touchdowns and crews surveying damage. Delaware Health: Delaware confirmed a measles case after more than a decade, and the CDC reported cyclosporiasis cases topping 4,000 across 41 states. Local Delaware Policy: Gov. Matt Meyer signed healthcare bills aimed at improving access and affordability, including next-generation 911 upgrades and expanded mental health care. Business & Delaware Courts: Delaware’s Court of Chancery weighed AI chat use in a legal dispute, and Delaware’s Investor Protection Unit dismissal was upheld by the state Supreme Court. Community: Lewes Public Library announced new teen programs, including self-defense, photography, and college essay help.

Tragedy in the Scioto River: Delaware County officials say five people drowned July 19 after a rescue attempt went wrong at Ohio’s O’Shaughnessy Reservoir; Honduran authorities identified two victims, with a Salvadoran victim also confirmed as investigators work to identify the remaining bodies. Local Hospital Demolition: Families are still waiting to retrieve engraved memorial bricks from the former Delaware County Memorial Hospital in Upper Darby before demolition later this year, as the district asks for patience and says requested items will be returned. Public Health: Delaware confirmed two measles cases in Kent County, urging people to check vaccination status while health officials track possible exposures. Weather Alert: A tornado watch covered parts of Delaware and the region until 9 p.m. Tuesday, with threats including possible tornadoes and damaging winds. State Policy: Gov. Matt Meyer signed a bipartisan Freshwater Wetlands Protection Act (Senate Bill 9) creating a Delaware wetlands program and clearer permitting rules. Local Safety: Delaware State Police arrested two Bridgeville men after a shooting outside a home; no injuries were reported. Dover Splash Pad Delays: Dover’s splash pad still hasn’t opened nearly three years after construction began, with final utility work and public health approvals still pending. Business/Legal: Delaware-linked securities class action notices continue to circulate, including AeroVironment and other companies, with investor deadlines listed in court filings.

Middle East Tensions: The U.S. and Iran kept up daily strikes in a 10th day of fighting, with diplomacy efforts in Pakistan failing to produce a clear off-ramp and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz still disrupted. Local Business & Jobs: Delaware-based delaware is extending Luzid across its global consultant network after a Brazil pilot showed a 4x productivity gain and 1,699 net hours saved. Sports in Wilmington: OnDeck Partners moved to expand its Minor League Baseball footprint by acquiring the Wilmington Blue Rocks, with plans to invest in fan experiences at Frawley Stadium. Delaware County Safety: A Michigan man linked to a stolen vehicle and homicide was arrested in Delaware County, Indiana, after a high-speed pursuit ended when his car left the roadway. Public Health: Delaware confirmed its first measles case in more than a decade, as health officials warn about rising infections nationwide. Air Quality Watch: Canadian wildfire smoke pushed parts of the region into very unhealthy conditions, prompting mask and outdoor-limit guidance. Freedom Fuel Update: Trump-promoted Freedom Fuel stations in the Delaware Valley are expanding, but deep discount pricing appears to have eased.

Next Generation 911: Gov. Matt Meyer signed HB 468, raising Delaware’s monthly 911 surcharge from 60 cents to 90 cents starting Oct. 1 to fund the statewide NG911 upgrade, including call-handling gear, software, cybersecurity, training and GIS data. Public Health: Delaware confirmed its first measles case in more than a decade—an unvaccinated man in Kent County—triggering contact tracing and urging residents to check vaccination status. Healthcare Costs: Meyer also signed three healthcare bills aimed at lowering costs and expanding access, including limits on certain hospital reimbursement rates, new standards for hospital financial assistance and medical debt collection, and a moratorium on nonprofit hospital acquisitions by for-profit entities. Community Support: La Red Health Center, with the Harry K Foundation and the Food Bank of Delaware, launched a new Harry K Foundation Food Pantry in Georgetown, already serving dozens of households with children. Environment & Safety: DNREC opened volunteer registration for the Sept. 19 Delaware Coastal Cleanup, and the state is preparing for Tuesday’s storm and flash-flood risk across coastal Delmarva.

NASCAR at Dover: Speedway Motorsports COO Mike Burch says “There will be racing at Dover,” pushing back on fears the Monster Mile could be dropped, noting Dover sells well and has strong corporate support. Coastal Cleanup: DNREC is taking volunteer signups for the 39th Delaware Coastal Cleanup on Saturday, Sept. 19, with registration open through Sept. 8. Public Health & Addiction: A commentary argues for contingency management as an effective “carrot” approach for stimulant addiction, citing a Stanford review of clinical trials. Energy Policy: A coalition of state AGs is asking a federal court to undo DoD’s freeze on routine reviews for land-based wind projects. Local Government Watch: Kent County will consider new data center regulations, while Delaware’s public meeting calendar highlights multiple boards and commissions. Port of Wilmington: The port operator is suing again to stop Delaware’s Edgemoor container terminal expansion, challenging permits tied to safety and dredging. Weather & Safety: Wildfire smoke and storms continue to affect the region, with air-quality alerts and forecasts for more unsettled conditions.

Seaford Storm Damage: Severe weather knocked down trees and left damage in Fleetwood Estates in Seaford after Saturday’s storms. Wilmington Police Shooting Vigil: Community members gathered at Rodney Square to protest the police-involved shooting of Kadir Skinner, as Wilmington officials released body-camera footage. Newark Death Investigation: Delaware State Police are investigating the suspicious death of a 30-year-old Wilmington man found in a retention pond outside Christiana Hospital. Fatal Crash in Stanton: A 17-year-old from Bear died after a late-night crash on Stanton Christiana Road; the driver of the other vehicle was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. Delaware Job Market: Delaware’s unemployment rate fell to 4.9% in June, down from 5.1% in May. Sports Betting Update: Delaware Lottery rolled out self-service sports wagering kiosks at 89 retailers and the state’s three casinos. Education Pipeline: Sussex Academy junior Kaia Medrano completed the University of Delaware Teachers of Tomorrow program. Healthcare Scholarships: TidalHealth Nanticoke awarded six local students scholarships for healthcare careers.

Severe Weather & Power Outages: Storms swept across Delmarva Saturday night, bringing damaging winds, heavy rain and lightning. A tornado warning expired, but cleanup is still underway, with thousands still without power early Sunday—Delaware Electric Cooperative reported nearly 1,000 members out at 4 a.m., and Delmarva Power reported over 1,000 customers affected in Sussex, Talbot and Somerset. Wildfire Smoke & Health Alerts: Canadian wildfire smoke continues to haze the region, with air quality warnings in the broader Northeast and Delaware-area residents urged to take precautions as conditions shift. Waffle House Shooting (Bear): Delaware State Police say four people were injured after gunfire into a crowd at a Waffle House parking lot in Bear early Saturday; no arrests were reported and investigators are asking for tips. Local Housing: Georgetown paused approvals for new cottage housing projects while it weighs changes to a December law aimed at expanding small-home rentals. Community & Business: The Delaware State Chamber is beginning a search for its next president after Michael J. Quaranta announced he’ll retire by the end of 2026. Delaware Coast: Sea Isle City’s rapid upscaling and rising prices are fueling debate over whether the town is pricing out longtime blue-collar residents.

Severe Weather & Power Outages: Storms slammed Delmarva Saturday evening, leaving thousands without electricity—Delaware Electric Cooperative reported 2,078 customers out in Kent and Sussex, while Delmarva Power reported 6,678 affected across 249 outages. Reports included downed wires and trees, with damaging winds and heavy rain after tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings. Tornado Watch: A tornado watch was issued for parts of Delaware and the eastern shore of Maryland through 9 p.m., with damaging straight-line winds, large hail, flash flooding, and an isolated tornado threat. Wildfire Smoke & Health: Canadian wildfire smoke continues to haze the region, and air quality alerts remain in effect, with officials warning residents to watch for unhealthy conditions. Bear Shooting: Delaware State Police said four people were injured after shots were fired into a crowd outside a Waffle House in Bear early Saturday; investigators are asking the public for tips. Local Business: The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce has opened an executive search for its next president as current leader Michael J. Quaranta plans to retire by the end of 2026. Health Services: NOVUS opened its first Delaware practice in Milton, offering free STD/STI testing and HIV-related services.