Delaware ombudsperson would appoint community association deputies in each county

The ombudsperson would appoint one deputy in each Delaware county. Deputies would be local contacts for owners and others involved in Delaware common-interest communities. Deputies would work under the ombudsperson’s direction and help with investigations when directed. They could use the ombudsperson’s powers only when those powers are delegated to them. If enacted, these provisions would take effect January 1, 2027.

The ombudsperson’s office would have a fund within Delaware’s Treasury Department. The money would support office operations and deputies, experts helping investigations, and educational materials for owners, associations, and others involved in these communities. The fund would receive any money lawmakers set aside for the office, grants and contributions that fit its public mission, and fees collected for office services. The ombudsperson would run the fund under the Controller General’s oversight. If enacted, the fund provisions would take effect January 1, 2027.