Members from all three counties convened on December 12, 2025, for the Delaware Farm Bureau’s (DEFB) Annual Meeting of Delegates, held during the organization’s Annual Convention. As a grassroots organization, DEFB relies on this meeting to conduct essential business and address members’ priorities. Delegates reviewed, proposed, and voted on bylaw amendments and policy resolutions to update the DEFB Bylaws and Policy Book, and heard comprehensive reports from leadership, committees, and staff.
Reports
Financial Report
Jonathon Moll of Belfint-Lyons-Shuman presented the financial and audit report for the 2025 fiscal year, providing members with a clear overview of DEFB’s financial position.
President’s and Foundation Reports
President Bill Powers delivered his annual report, highlighting key activities from 2025, legislative involvement, and DEFB’s representation at the national level. He also shared the DEFB Foundation’s Annual Report, which included updates on National Ag in the Classroom initiatives and plans for the future.
Women’s Committee Report
Chair Mollie Lynch highlighted a year of accomplishments, including the food booth’s success at the Delaware State Fair, the scholarships awarded by the committee, and exciting plans underway for 2026.
Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee Report
Chair Connor Vincent reflected on a year of impactful leadership development events, successful fundraising initiatives, and strong community engagement in 2025. She also outlined ambitious goals and plans to build on that momentum in 2026.
Legislative Report
Government Affairs Coordinator Sydnie Grossnickle reviewed DEFB’s legislative achievements and efforts in 2025 and outlined priorities and opportunities for 2026.
Executive Director’s Report
Executive Director Joseph Poppiti concluded the reports by spotlighting several key initiatives, including the launch of mental health awareness stickers, the establishment of Delaware’s first Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter, and the continued growth of partnerships with industry leaders.
Bylaw Amendments
DEFB’s Bylaws serve as the guiding framework for the organization. The Annual Meeting provides members with the opportunity to propose changes that strengthen and modernize these rules. This year, three amendments were introduced:
Promotion and Education Committee Name Change
The Promotion and Education (P&E) Committee proposed updating its official name to the “Promotion and Engagement” Committee. This change would align DEFB’s committee name with the American Farm Bureau Federation’s counterpart, emphasizing a broader focus on member involvement and engaging consumers.
Outcome: Passed, effective January 1, 2026.
Student Membership Classification
Kent County Farm Bureau (KCFB) introduced an amendment to create a student membership classification for individuals aged 18-25 enrolled in agriculture-related post-secondary programs. This classification would offer non-voting membership at a reduced rate, no more than 50% of the current dues. KCFB, home to Delaware’s first Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter, believes this initiative will encourage greater participation among young agricultural leaders.
Outcome: Passed, effective January 1, 2026.
Spousal Membership Classification
Sussex County Farm Bureau (SCFB) proposed establishing a spousal membership classification for spouses of active DEFB members. This non-voting membership would carry annual dues of $15.
Outcome: Passed, effective January 1, 2026.
Policy Resolutions
The DEFB Policy Book serves as the foundation for the organization’s legislative and advocacy efforts, reflecting the beliefs and priorities of its members. Each year, delegates can amend this guide during the Annual Meeting. In 2025, two policy resolutions were introduced, both submitted by SCFB.
Opposition to Downzoning of Land
The first resolution proposed adding the following language:
“We oppose the downzoning of any private lands. We oppose laws, rules, regulations, and ordinances that may negatively affect property values.”
SCFB explained that downzoning restricts private property rights, diminishes land value, limits future development opportunities, complicates inheritance and estate planning, and reduces financial and operational flexibility for landowners.
Outcome: Passed. This policy resolution was adopted.
Prioritizing State-Owned Land for Renewable Energy
The second resolution recommended this addition:
“We support prioritizing state-owned land as the first choice for renewable energy.”
The rationale behind this proposal was to encourage responsible siting of renewable energy projects, minimize land-use conflicts, maximize public benefit, and promote balanced growth while meeting energy needs.
Outcome: Passed. This policy resolution was adopted.
Election of Delegates for the AFBF Convention
President Bill Powers was chosen to represent Delaware as the official delegate at the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Convention in Anaheim, California. First Vice President Steve Breeding will serve as the alternate.
Mollie Lynch was selected as Delaware’s Women’s Committee delegate for the 2026 AFBF Convention, with Kim Klair designated as her alternate.
The Annual Meeting of Delegates demonstrates DEFB’s commitment to grassroots leadership and member-driven decision-making. By reviewing bylaws and adopting policy resolutions, DEFB ensures its priorities reflect the beliefs of its members. These actions not only guide the organization’s internal operations but also shape its advocacy efforts at the state and national levels.
To view the DEFB bylaws or policy book, visit https://defb.org/resources/farmer-information/. For questions about the Policy Book or DEFB’s legislative efforts, contact Sydnie Grossnickle, DEFB Government Affairs Coordinator, at sydnie.grossnickle@defb.org or (302) 697-3183.
