DE SB231

Changes appointment process for Alderman and Assistant Alderman from Mayor appointment with Town Council confirmation to Governor appointment with Delaware State Senate confirmation.

Establishes four-year terms for both positions with possibility of reappointment, and requires Town Council to submit qualified candidates to the Governor when vacancies occur.

Requires Alderman and Assistant Alderman to reside within Sussex County, be at least 21 years old, be U.S. citizens of good character, and not hold other Town positions.

Reduces maximum imprisonment penalty from 60 days to 30 days per offense and mandates that compensation be fixed by Town Council, independent of court fine revenue.

Mandates separate facilities and staff for Alderman Court operations to maintain judicial independence and public confidence, with all criminal matters recorded in Delaware Criminal Justice Information System (DELJIS).