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REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
AGENDA
JULY 27, 2015 - 7:30 P.M.
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
15 LOOCKERMAN PLAZA
DOVER, DELAWARE
OPEN FORUM - 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO OFFICIAL MEETING (7:15 P.M.)
THE “OPEN FORUM” SEGMENT IS PROVIDED TO EXTEND THE OPPORTUNITY TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC
TO SHARE THEIR QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS, COMMENTS, CONCERNS, AND COMPLAINTS. DISCUSSION OF
ANY ITEM APPEARING ON THE AGENDA AS A PUBLIC HEARING IS PROHIBITED DURING THE OPEN
FORUM AS AN OPPORTUNITY WILL BE PROVIDED DURING CONSIDERATION OF THAT ITEM. CITIZEN
COMMENTS ARE LIMITED TO THREE (3) MINUTES. COUNCIL IS PROHIBITED FROM TAKING ACTION
SINCE THEY ARE NOT IN OFFICIAL SESSION; HOWEVER, THEY MAY SCHEDULE SUCH ITEMS AS REGULAR
AGENDA ITEMS AND ACT UPON THEM IN THE FUTURE.
INVOCATION BY CHAPLAIN WALLACE R. DIXON
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE LED BY COUNCILMAN ANDERSON
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
* CONSENT AGENDA
THOSE ITEMS ON THE COUNCIL AGENDA WHICH ARE CONSIDERED ROUTINE AND NON-
CONTROVERSIAL SHALL BE MARKED WITH AN ASTERISK (*) AND WILL BE ACTED UPON BY A SINGLE
ROLL CALL VOTE OF THE COUNCIL. THERE WILL BE NO SEPARATE DISCUSSION OF THESE ITEMS
UNLESS A MEMBER OF COUNCIL SO REQUESTS, IN WHICH EVENT THE MATTER SHALL BE REMOVED
FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA AND CONSIDERED A SEPARATE ITEM.
* 1. ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015
2. REMARKS BY LEVY COURT PRESIDENT P. BROOKS BANTA
3. PRESENTATION BY LUTHERAN SENIOR SERVICES OF DOVER, INC. - PAYMENT IN LIEU OF
TAXES (PILOT)
4. RECOGNITION OF SERVICE - GERALD STREET - DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION -
APRIL 1990 - AUGUST 2008 AND DOWNTOWN DOVER PARTNERSHIP - AUGUST 2008 -
JUNE 2015
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COUNCIL AGENDA - JULY 27, 2015 PAGE 2
5. PUBLIC HEARING - VIOLATION OF THE DANGEROUS BUILDING ORDINANCE - PROPERTY
LOCATED AT 110 RUSTIC LANE, OWNED BY TAILILOU, LLC
(STAFF RECOMMENDS: 1) DECLARING THIS BUILDING AND ALL ACCESSORY STRUCTURES ON THIS
PROPERTY DANGEROUS; 2) ORDERING THE PROPERTY REPAIRED OR DEMOLISHED BY
AUGUST 27, 2015 BY THE OWNER OR EQUITY OWNER AT THEIR OWN RISK; 3) ORDERING THE
BUILDING INSPECTOR TO CAUSE THE REPAIR OR DEMOLITION OF THE STRUCTURES IF NOT
COMPLETED BY THE OWNER WITHIN 10 DAYS OF THE DATE ESTABLISHED BY CITY COUNCIL; 4)
ORDERING THE CITY MANAGER WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE CITY SOLICITOR TO CAUSE THE
COST OF REPAIRS OR DEMOLITION TO BE CHARGED AGAINST THE LAND ON WHICH THE BUILDING
EXISTS AS A MUNICIPAL LIEN OR CAUSE SUCH COST TO BE ADDED TO THE TAX DUPLICATE AS AN
ASSESSMENT, OR TO BE LEVIED AS A SPECIAL TAX, OR TO BE RECOVERED IN A SUIT AT LAW
AGAINST THE OWNER.)
* 6. PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE REPORT -
JULY 13, 2015
A. REVIEW OF REVISED ACTIVE RECREATION AREA PLAN - EDEN HILL FARM
TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD DESIGN - RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT
(COMMITTEE RECOMMENDED APPROVAL OF REVISED ACTIVE RECREATION AREA PLAN, AS
RECOMMENDED BY STAFF)
B. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) PROGRAM QUARTERLY UPDATE
(COMMITTEE ACTION NOT REQUIRED)
C. DRAFT RECREATION NEEDS ASSESSMENT
(COMMITTEE RECOMMENDED CONTINUED DISCUSSION OF THE RECREATION NEEDS
ASSESSMENT AT THE NEXT MEETING)
D. STRATEGIC PLANNING AND GOAL SETTING (RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER STRATEGIC
PLAN)
(COMMITTEE RECOMMENDED CONTINUED DISCUSSION OF THE RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER
STRATEGIC PLAN AT THE NEXT MEETING)
E. DISCUSSION - COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
(COMMITTEE ACTION NOT REQUIRED)
* 7. UTILITY COMMITTEE REPORT - JULY 13, 2015
A. NORTH AMERICAN ENERGY SERVICES (NAES) AMENDED AND RESTATED OPERATING
AGREEMENT
(COMMITTEE RECOMMENDED APPROVAL OF THE CONTRACT)
B. ANNUAL ENGINEERING CONSULTANT'S REPORT ON THE OPERATION AND
MAINTENANCE (O & M) OF THE ELECTRIC SYSTEM - FISCAL YEAR 2014
(COMMITTEE RECOMMENDED ACCEPTANCE OF THE REPORT)
C. TEA/NAES REPORT (MAY)
(COMMITTEE RECOMMENDED ACCEPTANCE OF THE REPORT)
D. UPDATES
(COMMITTEE DEFERRED DUE TO TIME CONSTRAINTS)
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COUNCIL AGENDA - JULY 27, 2015 PAGE 3
8. LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE REPORT - JULY 13, 2015
* A. FISCAL YEAR 2014/15 EDWARD BYRNE JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT PROGRAM -
POLICE VEHICLE COMPUTER/VIDEO TECHNOLOGY UPGRADES & SORT FIREARMS
(COMMITTEE RECOMMENDED APPROVAL OF THE GRANT PROJECT, AS REQUESTED)
* B. DISPOSAL OF EXCESS PROPERTY - SILVER LAKE DRIVE (EAST LAKE GARDENS)
(COMMITTEE RECOMMENDED, PROVIDED LOCAL PROPERTY OWNERS ARE SURVEYED AND
THERE ARE NO PROBLEMS, THAT A CERTAIN PORTION OF RIGHT-OF-WAY ADJACENT TO
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 107 SILVER LAKE DRIVE IN THE EAST LAKE GARDENS SUBDIVISION,
OWNED BY BRUCE AND DELLA PARHAM, BE DETERMINED TO BE EXCESS PROPERTY, AND
THAT THE CITY MANAGER BE AUTHORIZED TO CONVEY THE EXCESS PROPERTY IN
ACCORDANCE WITH EXCEPTION C OF THE PROCEDURES FOR SALE AND DISPOSITION OF
REAL PROPERTY, AS RECOMMENDED BY STAFF)
* C. TIMELINE FOR REVIEW OF FISCAL YEAR 2016/17 BUDGET
(COMMITTEE RECOMMENDED THAT STAFF PROVIDE A PRELIMINARY FY17 BUDGET BETWEEN
MARCH 15 AND MARCH 31, 2015, TO REVIEW EXPENSES)
D. PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE CITY OF DOVER CODE OF ORDINANCES - CHAPTER
2 - ADMINISTRATION, ARTICLE IV - OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES, DIVISION 4 -
CONTROLLER/TREASURER AND DIVISION 5 - CITY CLERK; CHAPTER 54 - HEALTH AND
SANITATION, ARTICLE I - IN GENERAL, SECTION 54-1 - HEALTH INSPECTOR
GENERALLY; CHAPTER 82 - PLANNING, SECTION 82-2 - CITY PLANNER; AND CHAPTER
102 - TAXATION, ARTICLE I - IN GENERAL, SECTION 102-3 - ADMINISTRATIVE
REPORTING. (TO MOVE DEPARTMENT REPORTING UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE CITY
MANAGER IN ACCORDANCE WITH COUNCIL ACTION OF MARCH 23, 2015 AND TO
REMOVE ANNUAL APPOINTMENT REQUIREMENTS)
(COMMITTEE DEFERRED CONSIDERATION OF THIS ITEM AND RECOMMENDED SCHEDULING
A SPECIAL MEETING, WITHOUT A TIME LIMIT, TO ALLOW FOR FURTHER DISCUSSION)
* E. PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE CITY OF DOVER CHARTER
(COMMITTEE DEFERRED CONSIDERATION OF THIS ITEM AND RECOMMENDED SCHEDULING
A SPECIAL MEETING, WITHOUT A TIME LIMIT, TO ALLOW FOR FURTHER DISCUSSION)
9. UTILITY COMMITTEE REPORT - JULY 27, 2015
A. CONTRACT AWARD - NORTH AMERICAN ENERGY SERVICES (NAES) AMENDED AND
RESTATED OPERATING AGREEMENT
(STAFF RECOMMENDS AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AMENDED AND
RESTATED OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT DATED JULY 1, 2015 BETWEEN THE
CITY OF DOVER AND NORTH AMERICAN ENERGY SERVICES (NAES))
* 10. QUARTERLY REVENUE REPORT
* 11. APPOINTMENTS RECOMMENDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT SLAVIN - HEALTH INSURANCE
COST RESEARCH AD HOC COMMITTEE
A. COUNCILMAN SCOTT W. COLE
B. COUNCILMAN WILLIAM F. HARE
C. MAYOR ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
D. SCOTT KOENIG, CITY MANAGER
E. DONNA MITCHELL, CONTROLLER/TREASURER
F. KIM HAWKINS, HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR
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COUNCIL AGENDA - JULY 27, 2015 PAGE 4
* 12. APPOINTMENTS/REAPPOINTMENTS - RECOMMENDED BY MAYOR CHRISTIANSEN
A. APPOINTMENT - DOVER HOUSING AUTHORITY - MARK HARMON - SIX (6) YEAR TERM
TO BEGIN AUGUST 15, 2015 AND TO EXPIRE AUGUST 15, 2021 (TO FILL THE EXPIRING
TERM OF RAYMOND L. PAYLOR)
B. REAPPOINTMENT - ETHICS COMMISSION - GARY COY - FIVE (5) YEAR TERM TO EXPIRE
JULY 31, 2020
C. REAPPOINTMENT - PUBLIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE OF THE DOVER-KENT COUNTY
MPO - JONATHAN CONTANT - TWO (2) YEAR TERM TO EXPIRE JULY 2017
13. PURCHASE POWER AGREEMENT (CAPACITY) - CALPINE ENERGY SERVICES, L.P.
(STAFF RECOMMENDS AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE MASTER POWER
PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT AS WELL AS OTHER DOCUMENTS REQUIRED TO COMPLETE THE
PURCHASE OF 40 MW OF UNFORCED CAPACITY OVER THE PROPOSED TERM)
14. OVERVIEW OF STORMWATER SURVEY
15. COUNCIL MEMBERS’ ANNOUNCEMENTS
/TM
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\COUNCIL-AGENDAS\2015\07-27-2015.WPD
THE AGENDA ITEMS AS LISTED MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED IN SEQUENCE. THIS AGENDA IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
TO INCLUDE THE ADDITION OR THE DELETION OF ITEMS, INCLUDING EXECUTIVE SESSIONS.
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REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular Council Meeting was held on July 13, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. with Council President Slavin
presiding. Council members present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil, Mr. Lewis,
Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Hare, and Mr. Hutchison. Mr. Cole was absent.
Council staff members present were Deputy Police Chief Mailey, Mrs. Mitchell, Mrs. Townshend,
Second Assistant Fire Chief Whitt, Mr. Koenig, City Solicitor Rodriguez, and Mrs. McDowell.
Mayor Christiansen was absent.
OPEN FORUM
The Open Forum was held at 7:15 p.m., prior to commencement of the Official Council Meeting.
Council President Slavin declared the Open Forum in session and reminded those present that
Council was not in official session and could not take formal action.
Ms. Yolanda Bouyer-Bello, 1160 School Street, Houston, Delaware, addressed members regarding
housing issues she experienced while living at Autumn Run apartments. Council President Slavin
advised Ms. Bouyer-Bello that the City of Dover had no jurisdiction over Autumn Run apartments
because they are just outside the City limits. He advised her that her concerns would be relayed to
the County, which does have jurisdiction.
Ms. Faye White, 101 Babb Drive, noting that the Open Forum segment of the City Council meetings
starts at 7:15 p.m. and the meeting is not televised until 7:30 p.m., requested that the City begin
televising the Open Forum segment of the meetings. Council President Slavin stated that the
decision not to televise the Open Forum segment of the meeting was made by a previous Council
many years ago and suggested that the request could be considered by the Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee.
The invocation was given by Bishop Thomas L. Holsey, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Hutchison moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Sudler and unanimously
carried.
Mr. Hare moved for approval of the Consent Agenda, seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and carried
by a unanimous roll call vote (Cole absent).
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of June 22, 2015 were unanimously approved by
motion of Mr. Hare, seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and bore the written approval of
Mayor Christiansen.
PUBLIC HEARING - VIOLATION OF THE DANGEROUS BUILDING ORDINANCE -
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 200 NORTH WEST STREET, OWNED BY
MARY LOU BASHORE
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider a violation of
the Dangerous Building Ordinance at 200 North West Street, owned by Mary Lou Bashore.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 2
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, explained that the
property is a two (2) story, wood-framed single family home. The house has been vacant since
January 11, 2013, and is registered with the City as a vacant building. The residential use is no
longer permitted at this location, as the property is zoned M (Manufacturing). On January 15, 2014,
the Board of Adjustment issued a variance to allow continued residential use. This variance expired
as work did not commence and continue diligently within a year of the variance being granted. On
May 7, 2014, staff from the Planning and Inspections Department condemned the home due to
numerous code violations. The owner was ordered to board the property in May of 2014. Currently
the home is still vacant, with no utilities and numerous outstanding code violations.
Mrs. Townshend reviewed a presentation depicting the condition of the structure (Exhibit #1).
Staff recommended that City Council take the following action for property located at 200 North
West Street: 1) declare this building and all accessory structures on this property dangerous; 2) order
the property repaired or demolished by August 13, 2015 by the owner or equity owner at their own
risk; 3) order the Building Inspector to cause the demolition of the structures if not completed by the
owner within 10 days of the date established by City Council; and 4) order the City Manager, with
the assistance of the City Solicitor, to cause the cost of repairs or demolition to be charged against
the land on which the building exists as a municipal lien or cause such cost to be added to the tax
duplicate as an assessment, or to be levied as a special tax, or to be recovered in a suit at law against
the owner.
Mr. Hare, noting that the utilities were terminated in 2008, asked why something had not been done
regarding the property between 2008 and 2014. Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that it was not
until an inspector was assigned to enforcement in 2012 that the City began aggressively enforcing
the vacant building ordinance. She advised that staff had the property boarded and were monitoring
it; however, they had focused on bringing forward properties that were in much worse condition than
this property.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Mrs. Townshend stated that she had not spoken with the owner,
Mrs. Bashore, in several months; however, Mr. Tim Taraila, Inspector III, had spoken with her the
previous week. Mrs. Townshend stated that she was not aware of the content of that conversation.
Council President Slavin declared the public hearing open.
Mrs. Mary Lou Bashore stated that she and her husband, John Bashore, owned the house until he
unexpectedly died on August 24, 2014. She noted that at the time of his death her husband was in
the process of restoring the house, which would have cost a lot less than hiring someone to do the
work. Mrs. Bashore advised that her sons had tried their best to restore the house; however, they had
to stop after spending $10,000 on the renovation.
Mrs. Bashore indicated that she is handling other properties that her husband owned in Chestertown
and Elkton, Maryland. She stated that the properties that he owned in Dover are rented and bringing
in an income. Mrs. Bashore noted that she is also maintaining the business that he owned, which
is a 24-hour answering service for doctors.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 3
Mrs. Bashore stated that she put the house at 200 North West Street up for sale when she realized
that she did not have the finances to continue with the restoration. She noted that there are
approximately seven (7) people who are interested in the house and that she has a signed contract
with someone who wants to buy it and restore it.
Mrs. Bashore stated that she was not aware that it could not be restored and made a residential
property. She noted that the person that wants to buy it is willing to start working on it and have the
renovations done. Mrs. Bashore indicated that it would be a terrible waste to have the house torn
down because a lot of work had been done inside. She indicated that it had been totally gutted and
was ready for the drywall, and the electric had been installed and just had to be wired. Mrs. Bashore
stated that it is going to be like a new house when it is finished.
Mrs. Bashore stated that her husband really had not wanted to see this house torn down, and if there
was anything she could do to keep that from happening, she would like to. She requested an
extension of 60 days to apply for the variance to allow it to be a residential property.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Townshend stated that the next application deadline for the
Board of Adjustment is the second Friday in August and that application would go to the Board the
third week in September.
Mr. Hare asked if the house was ever residentially zoned. Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that
she had not researched that far back; however, a lot of that area was developed before zoning. She
noted that the west side of the street between the street and the railroad tracks is all industrial and
the east side of the street is residential.
Mr. Hare asked if the property could be grandfathered. Mrs. Townshend advised that the zoning
ordinance allows for a non-conforming use to continue as long as it remains consistently used for
that use and does not discontinue for a period of more than one (1) year. She noted that the utilities
were disconnected in 2008, and it had been vacant since then. The Board of Adjustment granted a
variance on January 15, 2014; however, the variance had expired and the building permit cannot be
extended for that reason.
Mrs. Townshend advised members that a use variance has a higher legal test than other variances
and she could not make any assurances as to whether or not the Board of Adjustment would grant
a variance for the residential use to continue.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt, Mrs. Townshend stated that the pictures of the exterior of the house were
taken in the last week or so. Mr. Hosfelt stated that he drove by this property the day before and
thought the pictures actually did the house justice compared with what he saw. He noted that if he
lived in that neighborhood, he would be upset if this house was next to or across the street from his
property. Mr. Hosfelt stated that if it had been in this condition since 2008 and something had not
been done about it, it would be very upsetting to him as a resident of that area.
Mr. Rodney McKenzie, 725 Bacon Avenue, stated that he had a contract with Mrs. Bashore to
purchase the property, pending the outcome of the hearing. He advised that he would like to begin
work as soon as possible to do everything that is necessary to restore the home and make it a
beautiful residence for another homeowner.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 4
In response to Mr. Neil, Mr. Mackenzie stated that this would not be his residence but an investment
property that he intended to fix up and sell or rent. He indicated that he would probably put it on the
market for sale first, but if a buyer was not found, he had tenants who were ready to rent.
Responding to Mr. Neil as to how many houses he has for sale or rent, Mr. Mackenzie advised
members that he works throughout the County buying houses, fixing and restoring them, and selling
them and has a staff who is proficient in this. He indicated that they usually work on one (1) or
two (2) such houses per month.
Mr. Slavin cautioned that whatever action Council takes has no bearing on what the Board of
Adjustment may or may not do vis-a-vis the variance. If Mr. Mackenzie were granted extra time and
began the work, it would be at his own risk because the Board of Variance would then have to rule
on this matter.
This was confirmed by Mrs. Townshend, who stated that a permit cannot be issued for residential
renovations until the Board of Adjustment takes action because the building codes relating to
restoration as a commercial building are different than those for a residential building.
In response to Mr. Sudler, Mr. Mackenzie stated that he had not considered the possibility of
restoring the building as a commercial building, but this could be considered.
Mr. Neil inquired if the ground could be sold for commercial purposes if the building were torn
down. Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that the property is zoned as manufacturing. It was her
belief that a variance was granted previously because it is a very small property, and it would be very
difficult to establish a new manufacturing use on it. Mrs. Townshend advised members that there
are a lot of challenges associated with the property due to its size and zoning, noting that it is
surrounded by industrial uses on two (2) sides. She indicated that, in theory, it could be developed
under the manufacturing zone, but there would probably be very few uses that would really fit on the
property once size is taken into account.
In response to Mr. Neil as to whether another residence could be built there with a variance if the
building were torn down, Mrs. Townshend stated that this could be done with a use variance;
however, the legal standard for a use variance is very difficult to meet. To her knowledge, the use
variance granted for this property was the only one that had been granted since she began service
with the City.
At the request of Mr. Sudler, Mrs. Townshend explained that a use variance allows a use that is not
permitted by the zoning ordinance.
Mr. Hosfelt noted that Cecil Street extended is on the south side of the house and is currently a dirt
lane. He inquired if the City would be responsible for paving and dedicating that roadway if the
variance was approved and the house became a residence.
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, advised members that this is a dedicated right-of-way and
discussion had been held about paving at least a portion of it. He indicated that this would be a
substandard pavement because it would not be the width of a normal road and would not have a curb,
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 5
and this roadway is technically an unimproved right-of-way that exists within the City. Mr. Koenig
stated that there had been discussion about paving a 15-foot-wide swath for access and egress. It was
his belief that the driveway for this house extends from that dirt/gravel road.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mr. Koenig confirmed that this unimproved road is used for access to
Terrapin Recycling.
There being no one else present wishing to speak, Council President Slavin declared the public
hearing closed.
Mr. Sudler moved to grant a 90-day extension to the property owner in order to go through the
variance process. The motion was seconded by Mr. Anderson.
Mrs. Townshend stated that the pictures of the property reflect foundation issues and a structural
engineering report may be needed. She indicated that this would be part of the permit submission.
For clarification, Mr. Slavin stated that the extension would be granted until 90 days from today’s
date. He indicated that the motion was made with the understanding that this would be enough time
to go through the variance process.
The motion to grant a 90-day extension to the owner of the property located at 200 North West
Street in order to go through the variance process carried by a roll call vote of seven (7) yes
(Anderson, Sudler, Neil, Lewis, Hosfelt, and Slavin), one (1) no (Hutchison), and one (1) absent
(Cole).
PUBLIC HEARING - VIOLATION OF THE DANGEROUS BUILDING ORDINANCE -
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 311 NORTH GOVERNORS AVENUE, OWNED BY
JEAN E. MACDONALD
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider a violation of
the Dangerous Building Ordinance at 311 North Governors Avenue, owned by Jean E. MacDonald.
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, explained that
the property is a two (2) story, wood-framed, single-family home. The house has been vacant since
April 1, 2014, and is registered with the City as a vacant building. On April 3, 2014, staff from the
Planning and Inspections Department condemned the home due to hoarding conditions within the
home that are causing an excessive fire load to the structural members of the home. There are
weak/loose floors around the rear door, laundry room and bathroom. The owner was ordered to
obtain a structural engineer’s report and to remove items causing the excessive load. Currently the
home is still vacant, with no utilities and numerous outstanding code violations.
Mrs. Townshend reviewed a presentation depicting the condition of the structure (Exhibit #2).
Staff recommended that City Council take the following action for property located at 311 North
Governors Avenue: 1) declare this building and all accessory structures on this property dangerous;
2) order the property repaired or demolished by August 13, 2015 by the owner or equity owner at
their own risk; 3) order the Building Inspector to cause the repair or demolition of the structures if
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 6
not completed by the owner within 10 days of the date established by City Council; and 4) order the
City Manager, with the assistance of the City Solicitor, to cause the cost of repairs or demolition to
be charged against the land on which the building exists as a municipal lien or cause such cost to be
added to the tax duplicate as an assessment, or to be levied as a special tax, or to be recovered in a
suit at law against the owner.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt, Mrs. Townshend advised that the red placard with the white X indicates
to the Fire Department that there are structural concerns, the property should not be inhabited, and
they should use caution if responding to that property.
Mr. Lewis asked if there had been any contact with the owner. Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated
that there had been contact and it was her understanding that the owner is currently out of state.
In response to Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Townshend stated that she thought the taxes were being paid on this
property and she did not believe they were delinquent.
Mr. Anderson asked if Mrs. Townshend had any contact with the owner about their response to the
structural engineer, noting that this was delaying the issuance of the building permit.
Mrs. Townshend advised that staff had discussed their concerns regarding shifting, the weight, and
structural stability. She stated that she believed this was the first application for a permit that they
had received to address these violations. Mrs. Townshend advised that the structural violations
cannot be addressed before the house is cleaned out.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Townshend stated that property owners frequently submit permit
applications once they receive notice that their violations are scheduled for consideration by City
Council.
Council President Slavin declared the public hearing open and, there being no one present wishing
to speak, the public hearing was closed.
Mrs. Townshend, correcting her previous statement, advised that there is a structural engineering
report that discusses the steps necessary to begin removing items from the house.
Responding to Mr. Hare, Mrs. Townshend stated that a building permit will be issued if there are
outstanding violations and fines due if it is a dangerous building. She noted that they typically
request payment at the time of permit issuance.
Mr. Sudler asked if the City has an engineer confirm that a building is dangerous or that the
foundation is faulty. Responding, Mrs. Townshend advised that dangerous buildings are defined in
the Dover Code of Ordinances and they do not necessarily have to be structurally unsound to be
dangerous. She noted that in this case there are hoarding conditions, it is vacant, and it is a blight
to the neighborhood. Mr. Sudler asked if there were any situation where an engineer would confirm
the code enforcement officer’s determination that a building is dangerous. Mrs. Townshend
responded that the determination is made using the definition set forth in the Code. She stated that
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 7
they would require a structural engineering report if they observe conditions that lead them to believe
there could be structural problems. Mrs. Townshend advised that the structural engineer’s report
would be required before they could issue a permit for repair.
Mr. Hosfelt moved that the structure located at 311 North Governors Avenue be declared
a dangerous building and ordered that the property be repaired or demolished by
August 13, 2015, in accordance with the process recommended by staff. The motion was
seconded by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Cole absent).
DOVER HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION REPORT - MARCH 10, 2015
The Dover Human Relations Commission met on March 10, 2015 with Chairman Wilson presiding.
Presentation - Delaware Department of Justice, Office of Civil Rights and
Public Trust
Ms. Smith introduced Deputy Attorney General Allison Reardon and advised
members that Ms. Reardon was recently appointed as Director of the Delaware
Department of Justice Office of Civil Rights and Public Trust, noting that this Office
was designed to be a safe haven where the public can go to understand their rights
in terms of housing, education, employment, and many other areas, and is also to be
an advocate when there is a conflict of interest between the Department of Justice
and the public.
Ms. Reardon advised members that she had been with the Department of Justice for
23 years, having started in the 1980s as a child support prosecutor. She stated that
she went into private practice for approximately five (5) years and then returned to
the State in a number of different capacities. Ms. Reardon indicated that she had
worked with the State Human Relations Commission in the past and had also
represented the Department of Labor, the Department of Finance, the Division of
Professional Regulation, and a number of other State agencies.
Ms. Reardon stated that Attorney General Matthew Denn selected her to head up the
newly created Office of Civil Rights and Public Trust and she was focused on getting
it started in the right direction. The Office was now staffed at the level that is
anticipated for the foreseeable future with two (2) attorneys, Ms. Reardon and one
(1) additional Deputy Attorney General, two (2) public outreach and research
specialists, and three (3) investigators. Ms. Reardon stated her hope that the Office
could now move forward doing the business that they are charged with, noting that
complaints were starting to come in more frequently since the Office was becoming
known.
Ms. Reardon explained that the Office is responsible for various areas of statutory
oversight, protecting the rights and liberties of Delawareans, and enforcement of
related laws. It will be involved in discrimination cases, focusing on pattern and
practice cases, and will not look at individual cases where there is already a place to
have those concerns addressed, such as the Human Relations Commission and the
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Department of Labor. She advised members that the Office of Civil Rights and
Public Trust refers people to appropriate government resources and is looking for
referrals from the State Human Relations Commission, Dover Human Relations
Commission, and other organizations that see pattern and practice type cases that her
Office would take charge of. The Office will also look into protecting the
educational rights of children with disabilities, although they had not yet officially
started in that track, and will enforce the laws designed to ensure citizen trust in
government, such as those pertaining to election and campaign finance violations and
governing the use of public funds and public contact. She indicated that they had
already seen some complaints involving elections, as well public funds and conduct.
Ms. Reardon explained that they would also focus on criminal prosecution of State
and municipal actors who violate the public trust by engaging in criminal conduct,
such as theft and bribery. She noted that they would work in collaboration with a
number of other agencies, including the Public Integrity Commission, the State
Auditor, and the Election Commissioner, and indicated that the Office is in the
process of scheduling meetings to meet with those various agencies and individuals
to see how they can work together.
Ms. Reardon explained that there might be an appearance of conflict if the
Department has a prosecutorial role and relationship with an entity when conducting
some investigations, for example, the use of deadly force by police officers, and this
function of review had been shifted to the Office of Civil Rights and Public Trust.
She advised members that she would be the person responsible for determining
whether or not the use of force was justified, along with Chief Deputy Attorney
General Danielle Gibbs. Ms. Reardon stated that she will write the associated reports
and make decisions, which she indicated was an important issue and big
responsibility that she would not take lightly. Having previously served in the Civil
Division and as the former State Solicitor, Ms. Reardon stated that she provided legal
advice to State agencies, noting that a State agency is often the subject of a criminal,
ethics, or other violation. She noted that it is very difficult to be in the position of
providing advice on both sides of the fence, and explained that the Office of Civil
Rights and Public Trust would perform investigations, which would take away the
conflict of interest that Justice Department attorneys often feel when they have to
represent one (1) of the entities that is the subject of an investigation.
Ms. Reardon informed members that her Office was also embarking on educational
programs and hoped in the very near future to reach out to various organizations with
common interests. For the past two (2) months, her staff had been talking with
offices of civil rights in surrounding states to fold some of their experience into the
developing Office. They had talked to such offices in Massachusetts and New York
and were continuing to reach out to other states to benefit from their experiences and
to further their mission of protecting civil rights and public trust.
Ms. Reardon advised members that the Office’s webpage can be accessed through
a link on the Delaware Attorney General’s website, and includes a contact
information and an online complaint form.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 9
Noting that the 50th anniversary of the 1965 Voting Rights Act was approaching,
Mr. Henderson expressed concern that it was currently difficult for people to vote.
He noted that license renewal now requires a birth certificate and other things and felt
that some people, including the elderly and those who are not organized, may
experience difficulty with this. Mr. Henderson expressed concern that this is a civil
rights issue driven by politics, noting that Delaware had fallen in line with this and
that some licenses state that they are not a valid ID for government. He questioned
what Ms. Reardon’s feelings were on this matter. Responding, Ms. Reardon stated
that she had not looked into this specific issue or how it would affect people’s ability
to vote. She stated her belief that a federally compliant driver's license is a federal
requirement; however, she was glad that Mr. Henderson brought this matter to her
Office’s attention.
Ms. Smith requested clarification regarding Ms. Reardon’s request for DHRC
commissioners to share cases with her relating to pattern and practices. In addition,
she noted that Ms. Reardon had served as a former protector of State agencies, and
indicated that solid relationships are built with such protectors. She asked that
Ms. Reardon explain the process of what she had formerly done versus what she was
now assigned to do.
In regard to patterns and practices, Ms. Reardon stated that the Office was looking
for certain situations. For example, she explained that if the DHRC received
complaints that an apartment complex was routinely denying access to a particular
race or gender, the Office would want to know about it. However, if one (1) person
complained, they would be referred to the State Human Relations Commission to file
a complaint and receive assistance. Ms. Reardon indicated that it would be helpful
if the City or State Human Relations Commission reported to them if a number of
similar cases builds up so it could be determined if this was a pattern and practice
case.
In regard to Ms. Smith’s question pertaining to the protection of State agencies,
Ms. Reardon stated that she is responsible for issues pertaining to police shootings.
She stated that she had never advised the police or worked with them on a daily basis
in what they do as law enforcement officers, although attorneys under her supervision
had worked with the State police and other police agencies; therefore, she felt that
she could be independent in her assessment of situations. Ms. Reardon stated that
it might be a little more difficult in a situation where a child has been abused in a
State facility and this may have to be reviewed; however, she felt that protocols and
laws would be in place. She would not be talking directly with the attorney
representing that agency and would make her own assessment for her Office on the
occurrence. She reminded members that the Office was still in its infancy and all
protocols were not yet in place but were being worked on.
Referring to Ms. Reardon’s comment about being involved with children with
disabilities, Mr. Roach inquired if this pertained to mental health, school, or
community issues. Responding, Ms. Reardon stated that they were looking at all
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types of complaints, for example, whether children with Individualized Education
Programs (IEPs) were being treated fairly and if their concerns were being heard.
She stated that the Office would be driven by what they hear from constituents and
that these would also be issues pertaining to pattern and practice.
Mr. Ruane questioned when the Office would become involved in issues related to
use of excessive force by police. He indicated that in the past there had been a
perception that some of the investigating parties within the Attorney General’s Office
had entered into related decision making, perhaps because of their own groundwork
with police. In response, Ms. Reardon stated that the Attorney General is sensitive
to the fact that a number of investigators had developed relationships with police
officers over the years. She explained that the investigators assigned to her Office
would work exclusively with her Office and would not be on the ground with the
police in other matters. She stated that if there were a police shooting and someone
was injured or killed, an investigator would go to the scene, perform their own
assessment and prepare a report for her, then she would issue a public report.
Mr. Ruane questioned the level of involvement of the local police force and if it
would be a routine practice for those cases to be moved up to the Attorney General’s
level rather than being handled by the City police. Responding, Ms. Reardon
indicated that a separate attorney who is not in an oversight position of personnel in
the Criminal Division would now be involved in the review. She indicated that the
Attorney General’s Office had held that oversight role in recent history, noting that
they had monitored and written reports on shootings involving injury or death for
years, and their website contains a number of related decisions rendered by former
Chief of Staff Timothy Mullaney. She stated that this responsibility would now be
shifted away from those who have a closer relationship with the police.
Noting that Ms. Reardon had mentioned that she foresaw problems related to
elections, Ms. Smith requested that she elaborate. Responding, Ms. Reardon stated
that, historically, there had been complaints involving elections, for example, laws
relating to electioneering within a certain perimeter. She stated that her Office would
be charged with ensuring follow-up on those complaints.
Mrs. Sadusky advised members that inmates in State prisons who feel they are being
treated unfairly must address this within the prison or pay money for an outside
lawyer. She explained that this may relate to issues such as prosecution for wrongful
death or improper health care, and questioned if this was an issue that Ms. Reardon’s
Office could address. Responding, Ms. Reardon stated that the Office’s role on that
issue had not been explored and she was unsure if there were partner organizations
that would be better suited for that.
Mr. Ken Abraham, 430 Kings Highway, stated that he is a retired lawyer and serves
as President of Citizens for Criminal Justice. He explained that he was familiar with
the practice, pattern, and policy term, noting that it is a legal term that provides
common sense meaning to a series of abuses or violations that might trigger an
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 11
investigation under appropriate circumstances. Mr. Abraham questioned who the
other deputy in the office was, and Ms. Reardon stated that it was
Mr. Dennis Kelleher.
Mr. Abraham stated that he wished to follow up on Ms. Sadusky’s question regarding
prisons, noting that he had a good look at what goes on in the Delaware Department
of Corrections (DOC) and there were serious problems in the State of Delaware. He
indicated that he did not know what partner agencies Ms. Reardon was referring to
and expressed his opinion that nobody was doing anything about the cesspool of
crime that exists in Delaware, stating that he was not talking about the prisoners. He
expressed his hope that Ms. Reardon’s Office would become involved. Mr. Abraham
stated that he had contacted the U.S. Department of Justice, claiming a pattern,
practice, and policy of serious abuse and criminal violations, and had received a form
letter from them stating that they only investigate claims of pattern, practice, or
policy, which were the very words he had used. Since that time, he stated that he had
received three (3) such form letters in response to follow-up complaints.
Mr. Abraham expressed his hope that the Office would do what it is designed to do
and wished them success.
Referring to Ms. Reardon’s comments regarding a lack public trust, Mr. Abraham
stated his observation, based on being immersed in these matters over the last eight
(8) years locally and nationwide, that the effect of the many problems in the criminal
justice system, including prison abuse, was the erosion of public trust in government
officials. He indicated his belief that Ronald Shoup, an inmate in the Delaware
DOC, was murdered, explaining that the death certificate indicated homicide at the
hands of DOC staff through blunt force trauma. Mr. Abraham inquired if a decision
had been made on this matter.
Mr. Reardon stated that she had previously responded to Mr. Abraham’s email
regarding this matter and, as she indicated in that response, this was an active case
and she could not comment on it. She stated that Mr. Abraham had emailed her this
question repeatedly and that this would be her response to all such emails.
Mr. Abraham stated that he would probably continue to send emails about once per
month.
Ms. Cynthia Smith, Felton, Delaware, questioned who protects whistle blowers from
retaliation, how Ms. Reardon’s Office would be transparent in regard to cases being
investigated, and if information would available on their website. Ms. Smith also
expressed concerns with regard to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), stating
that there were problems with a lack of transparency. She felt that there was a
conflict of interest in Ms. Reardon’s Office and that if they were representing the
public, they should use an outside, independent investigator so that there would not
appear to be bias in the office. Ms. Smith expressed her opinion that law
enforcement, social services, and the judiciary were three (3) important agencies that
must work together. Ms. Smith indicated that false allegations should also be
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addressed. She stated the desire to avoid becoming another Ferguson, Missouri. She
concurred with Ms. Reardon’s comments about patterns, stating the desire to know
how much racial profiling is happening in Delaware and how many minority arrests.
Ms. Smith felt it important to expose corruption and desired to leave the room
knowing that there is protection, although she acknowledged the desire for
transparency. Noting that she was a survivor of domestic abuse, she questioned what
happened to funding in the Violence Against Women Act. Ms. Smith indicated that
she had heard that Family Court wants a new building; however, she felt they should
be merged together. Ms. Smith stated that the State actors are playing games with
the people’s livelihood and families, and emphasized the importance of discipline,
transparency, and oversight in the judiciary.
Ms. Denise Tolliver, Camden, Delaware, stated that there was a series of rape cases
in the Caesar Rodney School District spanning a number of years and questioned,
when there is a pattern such as this, what the Office of Civil Rights and Public Trust
would do to help the families in situations where the kids are systematically being
abused by teachers. Responding, Ms. Reardon stated that this would cross over into
a number of areas, including criminal prosecution and the Family Division to assist
with children who are being abused. She felt that if a public school teacher was
abusing a child, this would be an issue of public trust and would be looked at by her
Office.
Ms. Tolliver questioned what would cause the Office to act, since she estimated that
the most recent case was less than three (3) months ago. In response, Ms. Reardon
stated that she had been in this Office for two (2) months; therefore, she was not
familiar with this case. Ms. Reardon explained that her Office is closely monitoring
what is happening around them and there is nothing that would prevent them from
opening their own inquiry into a matter, if they determine that it is appropriate.
Ms. Tolliver questioned if a citizen could file a complaint on behalf of children if
they are not involved in the actual crime. Ms. Reardon stated that if her Office
cannot help the person who files a complaint, they would try to direct the
complainant to the appropriate resource, such as Family Court or the Family or
Criminal Divisions of the Attorney General’s Office. She reiterated that she did not
know all the answers and was still learning.
Ms. Tolliver questioned the composition of Ms. Reardon’s team in terms of ethnic
background and diversity. In response, Ms. Reardon stated that there are two (2)
women, one (1) of her investigators is an African American female, and there are
four (4) white males. Ms. Tolliver suggested greater diversity in the office.
Ms. Reardon agreed and stated that they would continue to build this as positions are
added.
Mr. Raymond Paylor, Dover, questioned what the steps in the complaint process are
once a complaint is accepted by the Office of Civil Rights and Public Trust.
Responding, Ms. Reardon stated that constituents are initially directed to file an
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 13
online complaint form and two (2) public outreach and research specialists work with
them to pool together as much information as they can. The complaint is then
assessed by one (1) of the attorneys to determine whether or not it is something that
is within the responsibilities of the Office and what needs to be done.
Chairman Wilson expressed thanks to Ms. Reardon for enlightening members on the
mission of the newly created Office and stated his hope that they would be effective
in Dover and throughout the State.
Presentation - Downtown Development District Incentives
Mr. William Neaton, Economic Development Manager, reviewed a presentation
regarding the City of Dover Downtown Development District (DDD), which
included information pertaining to the program incentives. Mr. Neaton informed
members that this was one (1) of the most important revitalization efforts in the
history of the downtown area. He explained that approximately one (1) year ago,
Governor Markell added $7M the budget to revitalize downtown districts. The
legislation was approved unanimously by the General Assembly in June 2014 and it
was determined that three (3) cities in Delaware would be designated to utilize these
funds for both large projects, with over $250,000 being invested, and small projects,
involving investment under $250,000. There was an extensive application process
and cities had to show the need and impact of the funds for the downtown area,
develop a district plan demonstrating how the funds would be used, and develop
additional local incentives above and beyond what the State was suggesting.
Mr. Neaton advised members that applications were reviewed by a cabinet committee
and by the State Planning Office. The City of Dover's 300-page plan drew on two
(2) plans that the City had utilized in the past: 1) the Dover Transit Center
Neighborhood Plan and 2) the Restoring Central Dover Plan. He explained that the
Dover Transit Center Neighborhood Plan was developed in partnership with the
Dover/Kent County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) approximately six
(6) years ago, and involves the area surrounding the Transit Center on Queen and
Water Streets as well as the downtown area. In reference to the Restoring Central
Dover Plan, Mr. Neaton stated that a $75,000 planning grant was received from
Wells Fargo, with the National Council on Agricultural Life and Labor Research
(NCALL) as the lead agency. Numerous partners were involved in this initiative,
including the Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP), faith-based participants, and the
City of Dover. He stated that many good things came out of this plan, which was
completed in the Fall of 2014, and an application had been submitted to reapply for
an implementation grant.
Mr. Neaton stated that on January 11, 2015, Governor Markell announced District
Designations for the cities of Wilmington, Seaford, and Dover. Mr. Neaton
explained that this was a ten-year designation; therefore, it would be a long-term fix
and Dover would be able to apply for funding for ten years. He stated his
understanding that the Governor would recommend another round of $7M for the
upcoming budget year.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 14
Mr. Neaton informed members that the Dover DDD includes 220 acres in the Central
Business District and adjacent neighborhoods. He explained that this area has an
84% rental rate and stated the need to balance this with more owner-occupied
housing. Mr. Neaton stated that Dover’s plan has two (2) revitalization components,
a residential component and a commercial component. He noted that this is a
high-crime area with 49 vacant buildings in the District. Mr. Neaton stated that the
City was looking at strengthening code enforcement throughout the City, especially
in this area. He advised that 25 buildings that did not meet code requirements had
been demolished, nine (9) additional buildings were considered dangerous, and part
of the revitalization would target these buildings.
Mr. Neaton explained that incentives would include cash rebates on construction
costs, fee waivers, tax abatements and credits, historic tax abatements and credits,
and facade improvement and architectural grants. Mr. Neaton explained, for
example, that an applicant with a $100,000 commercial remodeling project would
pay $25,000 out of pocket and would be eligible for a 20% cash rebate from the State
on the remaining $75,000, which would amount to $15,000. In addition,
Kent County had allocated $200,000 to match all incentives up to $10,000; therefore,
the applicant would receive a total of $25,000 in State and County rebates.
In regard to City incentives, Mr. Neaton stated that building permit fees as well as
sewer and water impact fees would be waived for DDD approved projects. He
explained that the City’s water and sewer impact fees are $4,000 for each equivalent
dwelling unit (EDU), and a building constructed with two (2) bathrooms would have
two (2) EDUs, amounting to $8,000 in water and sewer impact fees which would be
waived. In addition, business license fees for new businesses would be waived for
three (3) years in the DDD. The City would also rebate transfer fees once a
certificate of occupancy is obtained for a building that is being purchased and
remodeled.
In regard to tax benefits, Mr. Neaton informed members that the City would provide
tax abatement on the value of improvements for ten years. As an example, he
explained that if an owner of a building with a tax base of $200,000 completed
$100,000 worth of improvements, typically the tax base would increase to $300,000;
however, with this incentive, the City would continue to use $200,000 as the tax base
for ten years. Mr. Neaton stated that there are also State historic preservation tax
credits and City tax credits for historic properties.
Referring to homeownership incentives, Mr. Neaton stated that the City was offering
a five (5) year phase-in for property taxes for owner-occupied homes in the DDD.
In addition transfer taxes would be waived for first-time homebuyers in the DDD.
Mr. Neaton explained that the City has had a down payment assistance program for
first-time homebuyers for many years. He stated that on March 9, 2015, the Parks,
Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee had recommended that
City Council approve $60,000 to continue this program through Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 15
Mr. Neaton indicated that the Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP) was offering
funding for architectural design assistance. He explained that the DDP would fund
100% of the first $1,000 used for this purpose and would provide a 50% match for
additional fees up to $5,000. It was hoped that this would assist new owners in
bringing buildings up to code. Mr. Neaton stated that the DDP had a facade
improvement program for a number of years and would provide rebates for this
purpose as well. In addition, he noted that the Sustainable Energy Utility was
reducing the cost of energy audits from approximately $400 to $50 and would also
provide rebates for energy efficiency improvements. Mr. Neaton reiterated that
strong code enforcement was needed to make sure that buildings are brought up to
code.
Mr. Neaton reviewed an example of the value of incentives for a sample project with
an initial construction cost of $350,000, noting that this project would qualify for
incentives valued at $147,034, which would be approximately 40% of the cost. He
noted that the expectation was that this would result in developers bringing forward
projects that were previously postponed and starting development downtown.
Mr. Kirby Hudson, Assistant City Manager, advised members that two (2) workshops
were scheduled for March 11, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. which would provide
more detailed information regarding the DDD program. He indicated that three (3)
similar workshops were held last month and attendance averaged 40 people;
therefore, approximately 140 developers and investors had come to see the types of
redevelopment incentives being offered in downtown Dover.
Mr. Hudson expressed his feeling that a key component of making the project work
was cleaning up the area. He felt that all of the incentives and programs to spur
development and redevelopment would not mean a thing unless this is done.
Members were provided a flyer to be distributed to encourage residents to perform
basic property maintenance for spring. Mr. Hudson noted that the flyer provided a
synopsis of the types of code violations that code enforcement staff would be looking
at.
Mr. Hudson advised members that he was the former City Manager for the Town of
Cobleskill, New York. He indicated that he was new to the City of Dover; however,
he quickly realized that there are a number of properties in the DDD in major
disarray, reiterating that 84% of the properties were rental units, and there were 49
vacant buildings and 25 vacant lots that have become havens for dumping.
Mr. Hudson stated that residents must be held accountable for bringing these
properties up to code. He advised that the City would like to start a campaign and
let everyone know in advance that Dover was fortunate enough to be designated as
one (1) of three (3) cities to receive this opportunity. He stated that the City would
use this to its advantage, and for those people who did not want to clean up their act,
the City would help them to do so. Mr. Hudson stated that this would be done fairly,
consistently, and by the book.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 16
Mr. Ruane questioned if owners of multiple rental units had been identified and been
given an invitation to meet with the City to incentivize them, so that there would be
direct targeting of some of the ownership, rather than a general invitation. Mr. Ruane
stated that he would like to see those people who are used to getting away with doing
the wrong thing being targeted. In response, Mr. Neaton stated that in one (1)
instance a person who has owned numerous properties had come to the City and met
with the City Manager, the Assistant City Manager, the Director of Planning and
Community Development, and Mr. Neaton to discuss what they could do to upgrade
and how these incentives would impact them. Mr. Neaton indicated that he did not
know how many property owners own multiple locations but assumed that there were
a number of them.
Mr. Ruane strongly suggested getting this into place because he felt that individuals
would make the effort to make improvements; however, in the past there were
difficulties with those who own multiple properties.
Mr. Henderson stated that Mr. Matt Haley had planned to do quite a bit for Dover,
including putting in a restaurant, before tragically being killed. He asked if that
situation had been addressed. In addition, he questioned if there would be
gentrification in the DDD and expressed concern about the poor, transient, and
non-home owners in the area and where they would go if the area is upgraded.
Mr. Hudson explained that, by the broken window theory, properties that are in
disarray, with boarded houses, broken windows, and abandoned cars, are the most
targeted for criminal activity. He indicated that this program would do two (2)
things: 1) bring local and out-of-town people to look at incentives throughout the
State, County, and City, so that they would know the area is open for redevelopment
business; and 2) clean up the area, which would also help to take care of some of the
crime. If a property is picked up and remains clean, facade improvements are made,
and new lighting is installed, this would demonstrate that people care about their
property and criminal activity would move to another area. Mr. Hudson felt that if
the root of the problem is not taken care of, efforts would only amount to putting
cosmetics on the problem. He stated that property owners must be made to maintain
properties and they were not being asked to do anything beyond what a normal
person would do.
Mr. Henderson stated that most of the people who live in this area cannot afford
property and that he respected broken areas because he grew up in broken areas. He
asked that the City look after the needs of the people who will be displaced, and
suggested trying to keep those who live outside of the District from building liquor
stores in the community, as well as stores that have no nutrition and sell no
vegetables to children. He stated that some people have no choice but to buy these
items because that is all that is available. Mr. Henderson stated that it was easier to
put up a liquor store than a church in this community. Responding, Mr. Hudson
stated that there is a list of businesses that are not allowed or eligible for funding,
including tattoo parlors, liquor stores, gentleman’s clubs, etc.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 17
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager stated that gentrification had been discussed and that
it was important to lay the groundwork to avoid that reality. He stated that in this
area of the City, there would either be progress and people would want to live and do
business there, or it would become the hollow heart of the City. Mr. Koenig advised
members that nothing good is happening on vacant property and in vacant buildings
from a community standpoint. He stated that this is a difficult subject because, as
people come in and refurbish, rebuild, or build new structures, gentrification is an
accusation that will have to be dealt with. Mr. Koenig indicated that the question is
how to develop a full palette of affordable housing or offer pathways for homeowners
who may not have economic backgrounds or means to keep their property or
maintain it in the future. Mr. Koenig stated that the program does not provide all the
answers. He noted that some property owners had attended the workshops and
questioned what would be done for them; however, this program, as set up, was not
the answer to their questions. These individuals would have to be directed to other
programs or opportunities, and this had been discussed at the staff level.
In response to Mr. Ruane’s question regarding multiple property owners, Mr. Koenig
stated that strategies were being developed internally to address those owners with
whom the City has had difficulty in the past. He noted that the DDD designation was
received in early January, only eight (8) weeks ago. Mr. Koenig advised that the
positive promotion campaign was being done right now. He stated that it was
important to get the projects moving forward, the interest level up, and projects in the
queue at the State because, in some ways, this is a competition for $7M of State
money to be directed to the private sector. Mr. Koenig reminded members that the
City or State cannot make application for these projects and it is not money that is in
the City’s coffer, noting that the City incentives actually take away potential revenue
from the City. He explained that this is a long-term strategy to redevelop, refurbish,
and reinvigorate this area of the City and there would not be not an instantaneous
economic benefit to the City.
Mr. Koenig explained that if the City did not promote and get this program moving,
the City would be incurring a lot of costs for code enforcement, policing, and other
things that are not necessarily contributing to the overall community. He reiterated
that the program was in its early stages and there had been staff-level discussions
about developing public strategies for addressing concerns and getting buy-in from
the community and groups like the DHRC that this is a good program for the City.
Mr. Koenig indicated that there would be some potentially unintended consequences
to adjust for as the program is implemented.
Mr. Koenig emphasized that the objective was not to push the problem somewhere
else, so that at the end of the 10-year designation these 220 acres would be doing
we1l, but things would be made worse immediately outside of the 220 acres. He
stated the need for the DHRC and community organizations to understand that there
are some potential negative effects and a need to figure out strategies on how to
mitigate them and to achieve the goals of the entire palette; commercial, residential,
low-to-moderate income, and potentially low-income housing, so that those who
deserve to be there would not be pushed out.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 18
Mr. Henderson stated that this was exactly what he wished to hear.
Mr. Ruane stated that one (1) of the purposes of the DHRC is to promote diversity
and social inclusion and he felt that all of the commissioners would be supportive of
a program like this. He reassured Mr. Koenig that the questioning should not be seen
as negative or discouraging. He felt that the program was an attempt to improve the
economic program in the City and to provide better housing, which are goals that the
DHRC supports. He felt that this was a good program and that the DHRC would
like to support it.
Mr. Koenig stated that City staff had not known how to work with the Commission
on common subjects; however, that staff needed the DHRC’s help and was asking
for it by providing the presentation. He indicated that staff would like continued
dialogue, advice, and ideas coming from the Commission to help to make this a
successful plan. Mr. Koenig stated that when the City went to the cabinet committee
on State Planning for its application, one (1) of the strong points of the application
was the City’s organizational capacity to make the plan successful. Several
background plans had been completed with ideas and potential solutions to problems.
In the application, the City was also brutally honest in stating that in this 220 acres
there has been a high crime problem, a high rental rate problem, and a desire for
additional home ownership. Mr. Koenig felt that these were goals that the DHRC
would have for this community and expressed the desire to use the DHRC to partner
in making this a successful program.
Commissioner Smith stated her agreement; however, she felt it important to
understand the strategy, stating her feeling that the strategy was not completely laid
out. She referenced Mr. Henderson’s concern regarding a group of people that will
be displaced and would have to move elsewhere. She felt it important to understand
what is being endorsed before endorsing it. She suggested that this might mean
having a conversation and helping to support staff in creating that strategy.
Ms. Smith explained that she has a former client who is a contractor that has built
many of these properties throughout the State and kept them affordable and is very
familiar with how to navigate these difficult waters, and perhaps someone like that
could be brought to the table. Speaking for herself, she stated that she did not want
to back something that she was unclear on, or that those who are moving it forward
are unclear on.
Ms. Stewart inquired if any projects had come forward yet. Responding, Mr. Koenig
advised that the projects are submitted directly to the State.
Mr. Neaton stated that one (1) large project, in excess of $250,000, had been
submitted and staff was currently working with half a dozen other projects. He
explained that those applying for small projects will perform the renovations and
repairs, and then submit their expenses to the Delaware State Housing Authority.
Applicants for larger projects must submit a reservation for funds and those
reservations would be due on March 20, 2015.
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Mr. Ruane questioned if there is a citizens advisory group, including residents,
associated with the program. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that there was not and
that staff was looking for advice on how to get the correct messages out to the
development community and the community in general. He noted that these things
must be discussed because, while staff may think that the message is clear and
correct, it may have to be adjusted if something is missing.
Chairman Wilson suggested holding a special DHRC meeting to discuss this issue
in terms of strategies. He stated his feeling that it would be a good move to clean up
the entire City, not just that target area. He indicated that clarity is extremely
important and the idea of defining strategies that will not overlap one another, as far
as the what the DHRC was doing versus the City and any other group within the City.
He was in favor of Mr. Ruane’s suggestion to have a group of people that represents
the community be part of the initiative, noting the importance of hearing from those
in the target area so they know what is going on and for transparency.
Mr. Ruane informed members that the DHRC Government Policy, Programs, and
Practices Committee would have their first meeting with a group of senior City
employees to begin examining the City’s organization in terms of the status of its
diversity and its role in promoting diversity and social inclusion in the Dover
community on Friday, March 13, 2015, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. in the City Hall
Conference Room. Mr. Wilson expressed his hope that many of the Commissioners
could attend this important meeting.
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for acceptance of the Dover Human Relations
Commission Report, seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Cole
absent).
SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE REPORT - JUNE 22, 2015
The Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee met on June 22, 2015 with Chairman Hosfelt
presiding.
Discussion - Proposed Committee to Study the Basic Life Safety (BLS) Needs for
the City of Dover
During the Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee meeting held on
April 27, 2015, members evaluated proposals for the ambulance service contract.
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, advised members that Council had ultimately voted
to extend and renew the Prime Care, LLC contract through June 30, 2018. During
the discussions, a member of the Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee
suggested creating a committee to study issues such as procedures and protocols,
service delivery, and equipment needs to incorporate in the next request for proposals
for ambulance services, which Mr. Koenig stated would take place close to 2017.
Mr. Koenig advised members that City Council would be considering an
Authorization to Execute Agreement to Perform a Comprehensive Analysis of
Police, Fire, and EMS Services for the City of Dover during their meeting scheduled
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later in the evening. He explained that some recommendations regarding BLS may
come out of that study, although BLS would be a relatively small component of the
study.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison regarding internal mechanisms in place, Mr. Koenig
explained that complaints are usually filed in writing with the Emergency
Management Coordinator. Moving forward with the current and next budget years,
he stated that there would be a file of complaints, remedies, and ultimate disposition
which would be monitored to determine best practices for handling such situations.
Mr. Koenig noted that this information would not be published, as it is considered
to be private, unless specifically requested.
Request for Three-way Stop at the Intersection of Dwight Court and
George Washington Drive
Mr. Christopher Rupp, 1203 Woodrow Court, advised members that a request was
submitted to put in a three (3) way stop sign between Dwight Court and
George Washington Drive, stating that there are currently no stop signs at this
location and, as a result, drivers speed through. Mr. Rupp expressed concern for the
safety of people in that area, particularly young children, and suggested that putting
a three (3) way stop sign in place may cut down on some of the speeding.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison, Mr. Rupp stated that he had not had contact with the
Police Department regarding this matter. Mr. Rupp noted that the topic was
discussed with a neighborhood watch representative who mentioned putting a
policeman at that location, but that was a year ago and this was not done.
Mr. Hutchison suggested reaching out to the Dover Police Department to ask that
officers patrol the area and provide a recommendation on the best way to address the
issue.
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, indicated that the amount of traffic occurring at this
intersection, from an engineering standpoint, would not support the installation of a
three (3) or four (4) way stop. However, Mr. Koenig stated that the City had installed
stop signs in areas of the City that may have not warranted it from an engineering
aspect in the past because a community had submitted a petition that identified a
need, and this was agreed upon by all the residents around the stop sign. Mr. Koenig
stated that, often, once a stop sign is in place, there are complaints that people are
running the stop sign. Then the Dover Police Department will ticket people who
violate the stop sign; however, these are typically people that live in and around the
area. He reiterated the importance that all members of the community be in
agreement.
In response to Mr. Sudler regarding an alternative solution, Mr. Koenig stated that
people simply need to obey the speed limit. He explained that a lot of money is spent
to put up three (3) and four (4) way stops signs and for policemen to patrol due to a
relatively small group of people that are creating a major inconvenience for these
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neighborhoods, but this often does not remedy the issue long term. He said if the
community wants a stop sign put in place and will support it and obey it, 80% of the
problem is solved; however, if the majority does not adhere to the rules once signage
is in place, it is not effective.
Major Marvin Mailey, Deputy Police Chief, stated that the Police Department can
increase police enforcement in that area which, once in place, usually improves the
driving habits there. He concurred with Mr. Koenig that often the individuals in
violation are those who live in the community where the street sign is put in place.
Deputy Chief Mailey stated that he made note of Mr. Rupp’s complaint and would
forward the information to the rest of the Police Department to be addressed.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt, Deputy Chief Mailey advised that the Special
Enforcement Unit could do a speed survey on George Washington Drive, which may
help as well. Mr. Hosfelt explained that a speed survey can give an indication of the
average rate of travel on the road, which could help identify the best way to address
the problem. Responding to Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Rupp said he would be agreeable to a
speed survey.
Proposed 15 MPH Speed Limits for Alley Ways
Mr. Hosfelt explained that Councilman Cole, Third District, had proposed a 15-mph
speed limit for alley ways within the City of Dover.
Ms. Paula Kinsey, Owner of Tea for Two, 224 North State Street, advised members
that her garage is located approximately four (4) feet from an alley and explained that
on numerous occasions she scarcely avoided collisions in the alley. She stated
concern for the safety of children that ride bikes in the alley ways. Ms. Kinsey
expressed her opinion that the speed limit should be 10 mph to provide drivers
enough reaction time to stop at a short distance and to allow residents to move about
safely, as well as pedestrians, college students, and patrons of The Grocery Basket.
Ms. Kinsey also noted that as a result of a house in the vicinity being torn down, a
short cut was created which caused an increase in foot traffic in the alley, noting that
pedestrians often appear to be intoxicated, adding another element of concern for
pedestrians and drivers.
Mr. Paul Olsen, 301 North State Street, supported Ms. Kinsey’s comments. He
stated that he lives across the street from Ms. Kinsey and noted that approximately
a year ago, Council approved a stop sign in the alley in the back of his house, which
immensely reduced the speed of travel. Prior to that however, Mr. Olsen noted that
a person was hit in the alley and he expressed support for whatever action could be
taken.
Mrs. Kathie Siler, 229 North State Street, expressed her concurrence with
Ms. Kinsey, supporting her request to place a 10 mph speed limit in the alley. She
stated that she had lived on North State Street for 30 years and recalled a child being
hit in the alley and that the homeowner that she purchased the property from was
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nearly struck as well. She concurred with Mr. Olsen that the posting of a stop sign
had been extremely helpful. Mrs. Siler stated that there are a great number of
pedestrians that utilize the alley, including children walking home from school,
people walking their dogs, etc., and that, with the way the alley is situated and how
the garages are placed, the visibility is very poor, leaving very little time to react
when traveling beyond 10 mph. She concurred that many people look at the alleys
as short cuts and felt that posting signs would be helpful.
Ms. Susan Yost, 11 Cecil Street, stated that she also lives on the same alley as
Tea for Two, which is between State and Bradford Streets, and expressed her
agreement with the previous speakers. She shared her concern regarding speeding
through the alley and the danger it poses to herself, children, and dogs.
Responding to Ms. Yost, Mr. Hosfelt stated his belief that the speed limit was
25 mph in a residential district.
Ms. Sarah Herbert, 223 North Bradford Street, stated that her step-daughter's vehicle
was totaled by someone traveling in the alley approximately three (3) years ago,
indicating a high rate of speed. She also pointed out that the “Watch for Children”
sign in the alley was not placed where it could easily be viewed and this was the total
signage in the alley. Ms. Herbert explained that it had been suggested that the
residents place their trash cans out further to cause drivers to slow down; however,
residents had not done so. Ms. Herbert stated she had written to area residents to ask
them to send her their concerns, and there were issues that go far beyond the alley
ways. People had expressed concerns regarding arrows pointing in the wrong
direction on North State Street, drivers ignoring signs to stop for pedestrian, etc. She
stated that signs should be posted low enough so that those speeding by could see
them. She reiterated the need for a clear solution to the problems with alleys.
Ms. Herbert said that she would provide information regarding the issues brought to
her attention by the community to Councilman Cole and that members could review
them.
Ms. Janice Gaddis, 448 North State Street, stated that although speeding was not an
issue in her neighborhood, she grew up in Chicago where most homes had garages
in the alley, not driveways. She recalled stop signs being posted in the alleys and
expressed her thought that the speed limit must have been less than 25 mph.
State Representative Sean Lynn, 224 Columbia Avenue, advised the Committee that
he had received a number of complaints about this topic, including the lists of
constituents and respective emails that had been provided to Councilmen Cole and
Neil. Representative Lynn asked the Committee to consider this information and find
a way to provide some relief to the constituents.
Ms. Lynn Gold, 222 North State Street, expressed her support for everything that had
been verbalized regarding this topic. She pointed out that accountability was also an
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issue, stating that if the City were not accountable for enforcing the limits, they have
no impact. Ms. Gold suggested speed bumps, stating that this would require less
enforcement because people would either have to stop or wreck their cars.
Mr. Hutchison stated that the City does not utilize speed bumps because of fire
apparatus and paramedics; however, he felt there were alternative solutions. He
assured those present that he shared the safety concerns that were expressed.
Mr. Cole expressed his appreciation to Mr. Hosfelt for placing this topic on the
agenda and thanked the residents of the Third District for attending the meeting and
voicing their concerns.
Mr. Koenig advised that the City’s code indicates that the speed limit is 25 mph
unless otherwise posted and expressed his uncertainty as to whether this would
prevent the City from reducing the speed limit to 15 or 10 mph. Mr. Koenig stated
that the City has about 16 miles of alleys, and if signs were posted they would be
needed at the beginning and likely at the end of each alley, and it was his belief that
some posting would be needed in the alleys, which would be difficult from an
operational standpoint. He stated that there are obstacles that may pose issues
regarding posting and visibility because of the way the alleys are laid out. In
addition, the cooperation of property owners would be needed to post signs since
some of the alleys are not paved according to property lines. Mr. Koenig advised that
alleys in the City are supposed to be 16 feet wide; however, in some cases may be
slightly wider or narrower, which would ultimately require signage on private
property. Mr. Koenig stated that some people had expressed concerns that alleys
were very narrow, and noted that putting up a sign would further narrow the area,
creating problems for larger vehicles. He indicated that it would be essential to
consider these types of issues when determining if and where signs should be posted
and it would take some time to accomplish. Mr. Koenig requested, if the City moved
forward with this, that staff be given direction on a location for a pilot project to be
tested before going City-wide with it.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt regarding whether there would be a difference in
enforcement level if speed limits were reduced, Major Marvin Mailey, Deputy Police
Chief, stated that 25 mph was faster than it should be, noting that streets with greater
visibility and clearance for vehicles have a 25 mph speed limit. He concurred that
alleys are tight, have blind spots, and a lot of opportunity for accidents.
Deputy Chief Mailey stated that he did not oppose the drop in the speed limit and
confirmed Mr. Koenig’s statement that Delaware law would require posting at the
beginning and end of the speed zone. This would present a problem with
enforcement because of the area where officers would have to be stationed to enforce
the speed limits. He indicated that if the Department could get its officers out there
to enforce the limits safely, they would do so.
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At the request of Mr. Hosfelt, Deputy Chief Mailey said he would ask the Special
Enforcement Unit commander to look into this and perhaps provide some
information to the Committee and Mr. Koenig regarding what had been done in other
cities or locations in relation to this issue.
In response to Mr. Sudler regarding how a reduction in speed limit would affect
enforcement, Deputy Chief Mailey stated that, with the many tasks the
Police Department has, alleys are not at the top of the priority list, especially
considering that the Department is functioning with 88 officers, which was well
below manpower standards. He indicated that speed in alleys had not been
monitored in some time.
Responding to Mr. Cole regarding the requirements for posting, Deputy Chief Mailey
stated that the operator must be given due notice of the posted speed so they can
decelerate and come within the guidelines. It would have to be posted at the
entrances at each end, unless it was a one (1) direction alley. In response to
Mr. Cole’s question as to whether an ordinance could be established declaring that
all alleys within the City have a 15 mph speed limit, Deputy Chief Mailey stated that
this would be a matter for the City Solicitor to address.
Mr. Cole advised members that many states had declared a 15 mph speed limit for
alley ways throughout their jurisdictions unless otherwise posted and suggested this
may be a possibility.
At Mr. Hosfelt’s request, Deputy Chief Mailey agreed to research this possibility
with the City Solicitor.
Ms. Sarah Herbert, 223 North Bradford Street, reiterated that she had provided a list
of constituent concerns to Mr. Cole, noting that one (1) of the suggestions was to
educate the City regarding pedestrian laws, possibly through the newspaper and
schools. She felt that pedestrians do not know what to do on walkways and alleys.
Council President Slavin suggested that a motion be made to request staff to begin
the process of preparing an ordinance as part of Deputy Chief Mailey’s research.
The Committee recommended referring this matter to staff for review and
recommendation to be followed up at the Committee’s next monthly meeting.
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for approval of the committee's recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Cole absent).
Discussion - Increased Criminal Activity - Lincoln Park Subdivision
Mr. Stanley Richardson, 126 Reese Street, addressed the Committee about a group
home located behind his residence. He stated that the facility had been there for a
few years but had taken a significant downward turn in the last year and a half. He
cited a recent incident where he had to have one (1) of the group home residents
arrested for trespassing and threatening to destroy his property and blow his head off
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shortly after a shooting that took place in the neighborhood. Mr. Richardson stated
that the individual was later arrested. Subsequent to that, the director of the facility
advised Mr. Richardson that a fence was scheduled to be put in place; however, this
did not occur. Additionally, Mr. Richardson stated that he was told that he would be
made aware when the individual who threatened him was released from jail but this
did not occur. He was then told that this individual would be present no longer than
a week; however, he was still currently present after three (3) weeks.
Mr. Richardson spoke of another incident where a resident of a group home on
Bradford Street threw a brick at a neighbor’s windshield and rocks at her car, and
who also went to jail. Mr. Richardson stated that something needed to be done about
the group home. He indicated that it was said that residents are mentally
handicapped; however, based on having worked for the prison system for 27 years,
in Mr. Richardson’s experience, prisoners who wanted to be moved to a more private
or more relaxed area of the prison would claim to have mental problems.
Mr. Richardson felt that those types of individuals were being released to group
homes.
Mr. Richardson stated that he was informed by a fellow prison retiree who was
working with Connections Community Support Programs, Inc., the organization that
runs the group home near Mr. Richardson, that inmates were being picked up and put
into group homes without screening. He expressed his understanding that this
organization was mainly concerned about the $1,500 that they receive per day per
resident and they are not paid if these homes are unoccupied. Mr. Richardson said
Connections has two (2) other locations in Dover, one (1) of which housed a sex
offender until the community protested this individual’s presence, at which time this
person was moved out. Mr. Richardson questioned the types of disabilities the
individuals being housed at the group home have and expressed his feeling that many
do not have a mental disability and are only looking for a place to be housed.
Mr. Richardson advised members that he is fearful in his own home and does not feel
safe running his lawn care business, stating that he feels he is in a vulnerable position
when he is performing tasks like lying down in his driveway while sharpening blades
for his lawn care business in his driveway. He noted that when he cuts the grass of
Ms. Gloria Gardner, 115 Bertrand Street, next door to the group home, one (1) of the
residents gives him dirty looks. Mr. Richardson stated that he had been told that
three (3) more group homes were popping up on Saulsbury Road and Forrest Avenue
next to the Subway Restaurant.
Mr. Richardson suggested that the City notify the neighborhood when approval is
sought for a group home. He mentioned again the shooting that took place and
expressed his frustrations that no one is speaking up to help the Dover Police
Department identify the shooter.
In regard to the recent shooting that he mentioned previously, Mr. Richardson
advised that he and Detective Woods of the Dover Police Department attempted to
obtain information from the father of one of the possible individuals involved who
originally stated that he did not know the names of anyone involved, only their
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nicknames. When pressed for the nicknames after being told the Police Department
could likely identify them based on a known nickname, the individual was no longer
willing to cooperate or provide any information. Mr. Richardson stated that the same
individual whose name the neighbor refused to provide a nickname for, was later
arrested, along with some other individuals as a result of an incident at Dover Downs.
Mr. Richardson thought that there were weapons in the residence of the individual,
referring to a shooting that took place eight (8) months ago that the same individual
was involved in.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Richardson stated that the individual he was
referring to regarding the shooting was not connected with the group home; however,
Mr. Richardson felt something needed to be done about both situations because they
were both problems and posed a danger to the neighborhood.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Richardson stated that he had called the Dover Police
Department on numerous occasions and encouraged his neighbors to do the same.
He noted that the Dover Police Department does a good job but more needs to be
done about the group home and the violence in the neighborhood.
Ms. Gloria Gardner, 115 Bertrand Drive, expressed her concurrence with
Mr. Richardson’s concerns regarding the health-related group home next door, which
opened approximately one (1) year ago. Ms. Gardner stated that when the home first
opened, there were no problems with the residents as most of them were
wheelchair-bound patients; however, recently, those types of individuals had been
replaced by young 19 and 20-year-old men. Ms. Gardner noted specifically that
starting on May 21, 2015 the police were called to that location four (4) times in one
(1) week, and she no longer feels it is safe for her children to play in the yard.
Ms. Gardner added that a couple of weeks ago she observed a young man using a
brick to break a window in the group home and was later advised by one of the
group’s counselors that the windshield of Ms. Gardner’s car had been broken out of
her car and her car had dents from bricks. Her concern was this kind of damage, as
well as the physical damage that could be caused to her, her children, or her
grandchildren. Ms. Gardner suggested that the facility adopt some kind of screening
process for the types of patients that are approved to be housed at the group home.
Ms. Gardner shared her understanding that in some cases if someone wants to build
something in a neighborhood, a petition would be distributed to the members of the
neighborhood to allow them the opportunity to give or deny their permission. She
indicated that she was shocked to find that a medical facility was approved next to
her house in a residential neighborhood with no one’s knowledge until they started
bringing patients in. She asked to be informed what the ordinance or requirement
was for this. Responding, Mr. Hosfelt advised Ms. Gardner that her question would
be brought to the attention of City staff to be answered. Mrs. Gardner stated that she
thought it was very unsafe, noting that she had been in this house for approximately
35 years and she felt that serious changes needed to be made.
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In response to Mr. Anderson, Ms. Gardner stated that she believed the address of the
group home is 125 Bertrand Street, which is next door to her home at 115 Bertrand
Street.
Mr. Charles M. Durham, 145 Irma Street, stated that he was from the neighborhood
being discussed by the last two (2) speakers and lives a block away from the group
home. He advised members that he was the former owner of the property next to
Ms. Gardner, which he sold it to the Department of Housing and Urban
Development, who indicated that it would be a home for people who needed
short-term assistance. He stated that he went to the neighbors about who would be
buying the house and told them what the purpose was, feeling that this was his
obligation. That house was torn down and the new one was built. He expressed his
apologies to Ms. Gardner, Mr. Richardson, and the other neighbors, stating that had
he known the type of facility that was going to be placed there, he would not have
sold the property to the buyer.
Mr. Durham stated that there were additional issues. Approximately two (2) weeks
ago, a 9mm bullet came into his home through a porch window, ricocheted off of the
side wall, and landed in a door jamb in a rear room of his home and, based on the
angle of entry, the bullet was believed to have come from Simon Circle. In addition,
Mr. Durham cited problems with speeding, stating that people disregard the stop
signs on Paul and Irma Streets. Mr. Durham stated that he and his wife put up a
brand new fence around their yard the first of July, only to have it kicked down by
individuals coming through the alley way. He advised members that people speed
up and down that alley way and also down Irma and Paul Streets on dirt bikes.
Mr. Durham advised that Mr. Richardson had been good enough to talk to the
neighborhood about things to solve the problem and he and Mr. Richardson
discussed finding a way to block off the entrance to Simon Circle from Reese Street,
leaving just a walkway for kids going to school.
Mr. Durham recalled that years ago a neighbor by the name of Ms. Martha Woodfolk
went around the neighborhood trying to get people to sign a petition to stop the
building of Simon Circle and stated that he refused to sign it because he felt that poor
people needed a place to live; however, he now wished he had signed the petition.
He stated that he and his wife were too old to move, but there were shots fired
through his house, another neighbor had two (2) bullet holes in his car and one (1)
in the house, and Mr. Richardson had a bullet hole through his basement window.
He noted that this was an expense as well. He did not know what could be done in
regard to Simon Circle but emphasized that the concerns needed to be addressed.
In response to Mr. Sudler regarding the location of the alley that he was referring to
regarding the dirt bikes and speeding, Mr. Durham stated that he lives on the corner
of Irma Street and Paul Street and the alley runs down the south side of his property
and extends from Simon Circle to Davis Circle.
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Mr. Hutchison stated that there are several group homes within the City and often no
one is even aware of their existence, stating that in his experience as a former Mayor
of the City of Dover and former City of Dover Police Chief, there are always going
to be isolated incidents. He assured those present that the City could reach out to
State leadership to address them. Mr. Hutchison stated that the issues and concerns
shared tonight were unacceptable and felt that the City of Dover needed to take a
leadership role.
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development,
stated for the record and to make sure that members of Council and the Committee
know that there are State and Federal laws that prohibit treating a group home for
people with disabilities any differently than a single-family home, and there can be
no differentiation by disability. Mrs. Townshend concurred with Mr. Hutchison that
if issues arise, State licensing agencies can be contacted to address the issues. She
advised members that Connections Community Support Programs, Inc. owns the
home that had been discussed this evening and stated that Title 22, Chapter 3 of
Delaware Code, which gives the City zoning authority, specifically states that group
homes for people with disabilities cannot be treated any differently than a
single-family home.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Mrs. Townshend stated that the City does not have
licensing that is separate from the state licensing and offered to contact the City
Solicitor to determine if a City license could be established, even if it were a
non-charged license. This would enable the City to have the homes registered and
be aware of their locations in order to follow up if an issue arises, but she cautioned
that this is a gray area in terms of fair housing.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt, Mrs. Townshend stated that representatives from
Connections were present.
In response to Mr. Sudler regarding how Ordinance 2013-04, adopted on
April 8, 2013, would apply to the current situation with the Connections home,
Mrs. Townshend advised that, based on the calls that the Police Department had
received for this location, there was nothing to act on under that ordinance.
Mrs. Townshend also stated, in response to Mr. Sudler, that if someone from the
agency had exhibited nuisance behavior more than three (3) times within a 12-month
period, the City would have to seek the guidance of legal counsel and reiterated that,
to date, there had not been any incidences that would permit action under that
ordinance.
State Representative Sean Lynn, 224 Columbia Avenue, advised members that this
issue had been brought to his attention, stating that he had received numerous emails,
originally starting from the Gardner family and then moving out through the
Lincoln Park area from those concerned about the neighborhood. Mr. Lynn
suggested that the neighborhood be looked at from a public works and public safety
perspective, stating the easternmost part of the neighborhood, specifically Cherry and
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Vine Streets, were in utter disrepair. He expressed his opinion that the streets were
in deplorable condition and only suitable for traffic going in one direction (1),
definitely not both. Mr. Lynn questioned how Cherry Street and Vine Street were
approved, noting that they are not conventional City streets. Mr. Lynn shared his
feeling that the neighborhood was in dire need of public works attention, noting that
the easternmost part of Slaughter Street was also in disrepair, as well as the stream
that borders Lincoln Park on the eastern side, and a culvert off Forrest Avenue is full
of debris and waste. Mr. Lynn expressed his uncertainty as to who is responsible for
maintaining the stream, but indicated that it was not being maintained at all, and the
culvert that runs underneath Forrest Avenue was blocked and needed attention.
Mr. Lynn noted that Mr. Hosfelt had raised the issue of creating a homeowners
association and a neighborhood watch and said he had tried to reach out to
Mr. Richardson in this regard but had been unable to obtain his phone number.
Mr. Lynn expressed his hope that Council could encourage the Dover Police
Department to reach out to set up a neighborhood watch in Lincoln Park, expressing
his belief that it would help drastically, as would increased police presence.
Ms. Kathy McCann, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Connections Community
Support Programs, Inc., apologized to Mrs. Gardner for what happened to her car,
stating that measures should have been in place to ensure this did not occur, and they
were now attempting to remedy this. Ms. McCann stated that the reason the original
home on the property was torn down was because it had a great deal of asbestos in
it and could not be salvaged. She advised members that Connections built a very
nice new house and stated that they are dependent on the State Division of
Developmental Disabilities and the State Department of Health and Social Services
to make referrals for people to live there. Ms. McCann stated that Connections is not
funded with $1,500 a day, as someone asserted earlier, and that the people who live
have developmental or intellectual disabilities. She explained that the people that
live there right now are very young, and they are not very well socialized, and she
agreed that they may not be the best people to live in a neighborhood that is so
densely populated. Ms. McCann stated that she would go back and tell the State that
the current location is not a good placement for those individuals. Ms. McCann
noted that the people who live in the Connections’ home were not involved in any
shootings and are not speeding in cars or driving motorbikes, stating that those are
issues in the neighborhood, but not related to Connections.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt regarding her responsibility to ensure that individuals
living at the Connections facility are respectable, Ms. McCann stated that she
believes it is Connections’ responsibility that staff manage the people who are living
there to the best of their ability. She indicated that if the people are not manageable
in this setting, Connections can reach out to the State and ask them to do something
different with those people. Ms. McCann stated that it is not possible to force an
individual to do anything but, in the spirit of neighborliness, everyone has to be
willing to work together because there have been a few incidents in which there had
been people agitating on both sides.
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Responding to Mr. Sudler, Ms. McCann stated that the staff members receive a lot
of training, but they are mostly people who have high school diplomas, noting that
the people who manage the program are people with Master’s degrees and
professional training. Ms. McCann pointed out that, unfortunately, the funding that
is available for the program is pretty much based on a rate of $10 an hour, which
includes benefits. Ms. McCann stated that Connections pays people a little bit more
than that in attempt to get people with a little more qualification, but reiterated that
they do go through a State-prescribed training program.
In response to Mr. Hutchison, Ms. McCann stated that Connections does not put the
individuals through a screening process, they are assigned to them by the State
agency.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison’s comment that this was a problem, Ms. McCann
agreed, explaining that Connections does not have the right to say yes or no to a
prospective resident; their only recourse is to explain to the State that it is not a good
location because of the dense population, which is a problem for those who have
issues getting along with other people, noting Connections’ responsibility to be good
neighbors.
In response to Mr. Hutchison regarding the State’s responsibility to consider an
individual’s ability to be in a neighborhood setting when assigning them to the home,
Ms. McCann stated that the problem is that many of these people would otherwise
be institutionalized and federal law no longer permits that, so the State is now in the
position of having to find alternative places for them to live, adding that funding is
also an issue.
For the record, Mr. Anderson advised members that Mr. Sudler had previously
suggested setting up a mobile substation that could be moved to different areas and
locations. Mr. Anderson stated such a substation could stay at a location for two (2)
or three (3) months, then move to another location. Mr. Anderson asked that the
Committee put this up for investigation and research.
Mr. Hutchison stated his belief that Deputy Chief Mailey had heard the complaints
and would take them back to Chief Paul Bernat, and together they would come up
with a game plan to address some of the concerns regarding Simon Circle and
Lincoln Park. Mr. Hutchison expressed his desire to revisit this issue.
The Committee recommended that the Dover Police Department increase their
presence in the Simon Circle and Lincoln Park areas, as they had in the other location
near State Street, and concentrate on the alley way and the areas of concern.
Deputy Chief Mailey stated that he wanted to advise Council, the residents from
Lincoln Park, and all those present that the Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit,
which is overseen by Lt. Jason Pires, had been in place in Simon Circle,
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 31
Lincoln Park, Bertrand Avenue, and that whole area since June 17, 2015, and they
had made numerous arrests. Deputy Chief Mailey urged the residents of that area to
report immediately any criminal activity that they see or become aware of.
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for approval of the Committee's recommendation that
the Dover Police Department increase their presence in the Simon Circle and Lincoln Park
areas, as they had in the other location near State Street, and concentrate on the alley way and
the areas of concern. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and carried by a unanimous
roll call vote (Cole absent).
The Committee deferred the remaining agenda items until the July 27, 2015 Safety
Advisory and Transportation meeting.
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for acceptance of the Safety Advisory and Transportation
Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Cole
absent).
UTILITY COMMITTEE REPORT - JUNE 22, 2015
The Utility Committee met on June 22, 2015 with Chairman Hutchison presiding.
House Bill No. 171 Amending Titles 9 and 22 of the Delaware Code Relating to
Taxes on Special Betterments
Members were advised that House Bill No. 171 establishes a Telecommunications
Tax Modernization Review Group to study and make recommendations for
establishing a future funding mechanism to replace the property tax on
telecommunications equipment and addressing the projected decrease in revenue to
the counties, municipalities and school districts from the transition to new
technologies throughout the State. The resulting mechanism should be
revenue-neutral to the localities and competitively neutral to providers of like
services. To encourage investment in broadband infrastructure, this bill also caps the
amount of tax on telecommunications equipment at FY15 rates and eliminates the tax
as of June 30, 2018.
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, advised members that a proposed
revision for House Bill House Bill 171. Mrs. Mitchell stated that the revised bill
eliminates the provisions of the original bill establishing the Tax Modernization
Review Group and eliminates the repeal of the tax as of June 30, 2018. To encourage
investment in broadband infrastructure, it retains the cap on the amount of tax on
telecommunications equipment at 2015 levels, and clarifies that the cap only applies
with respect to communication providers that are currently subject to the tax and
specifies that the limitations on county and municipal taxation will apply as well to
school districts and Business Improvement Districts. At the present time this tax is
paid only by landline telecommunication providers and not cable companies.
Mrs. Mitchell explained that she served with former Representative Darryl Scott on
a related committee several years ago and that those in the telecommunication
industry felt that they were being taxed unfairly on the betterments tax versus other
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 32
providers. The committee was to look at different alternatives, but when Rep. Scott
did not run again, this did not occur. The proposed amendments aimed for
consistency among all providers of telecommunications equipment. Mrs. Mitchell
stated her understanding that the current proposal was to work with each community
to try to obtain consistency.
In response to Councilman Hutchison, Mrs. Mitchell confirmed that the General
Assembly would be voting on the amendment on June 23, 2015. She indicated that
she agreed with the proposed amendment but not the bill as originally written, and
this is what she relayed to the parties that were involved in this.
Responding to Mr. Neil, Mrs. Mitchell stated that she did not believe the bill would
pass during the current session, stating that there did not seem to be enough support
for it.
Overview of City Utilities
At the request of Chairman Hutchison and for the benefit of new members of
Council, Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, provided a brief overview of the various
utilities that the City of Dover provides to its residents and customers. Mr. Koenig
stated that the City’s power system had its 100th anniversary within the last few years
and the water system dated back to roughly 1882; therefore, the City had been in the
public utility business for many years, which had been a benefit to the City and its
customers. [City Clerk’s Office Note: Subsequently during the meeting,
Mr. Blakeman advised members that the City’s electric utility came online and began
generating power on January 1, 1900, and received a 100-year award from the
American Power Association in 2000; therefore, the utility had been generating
power for the City of Dover for 115 years.]
Mr. Koenig explained that the City of Dover was granted a Certificate of Public
Convenience and Necessity by the State of Delaware to provide electric services in
a service territory. The City of Dover proper consists of approximately 24 square
miles, and the City’s electric territory is approximately 74 square miles, which
extends to Little Creek, Port Mahon, down into Kitt’s Hummock, which includes the
Dover Air Force Base and areas south of Route 10, and then comes up and
intertwines with the City limits. On the north side, the territory is in line with City
limits. Mr. Koenig informed members that when property is annexed into the City,
there is usually a letter of agreement where the franchise providing service prior to
the annexation is transferred to the City’s electric system. He noted that no financial
transaction takes.
Mr. Koenig advised members that the City of Dover built a power plant in the 1960s
at McKee Run which included two (2) 17 MW units called Unit 1 and Unit 2. In the
early 1970s, Unit 3 was added, which is roughly 103 MW, and in approximately
1990, the VanSant combustion turbine was added. Mr. Koenig stated that at that
point the City was producing power for the demands of its service territory; however,
over the last two and a half decades the City had gravitated toward being part of a
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 33
regional power supply grid called the PJM system. The City is no longer a primary
producer of power but produces power when called upon by the grid. He indicated
that the City’s generation capacity is approximately 170 MW.
Mr. Koenig explained that Council voted to retire Units 1 and 2, consisting of
34 MW of power, in Power Year 2018 for budgetary reasons. Council had
considered replacing those units with either a purchase power agreement or new units
that would offer Dover power generation well into the future. Related discussions
had been ongoing for approximately four (4) years, and Mr. Koenig stated that it was
hoped that staff would be bringing agreements regarding power supply forward to
Council for consideration.
Mr. Koenig stated that the Calpine Corporation had come before Council to obtain
authorization for a 618 MW facility for two (2) units, the first of which was for the
Garrison Energy Center, which became commercially available on June 1, 2015,
began producing power to the grid, and became the City’s largest water customer
overnight. Prior to the unit coming onto the grid, the thought was that once it did,
Dover would not be called upon to generate power; however, that had not been the
case.
Mr. Koenig reiterated that power generation is a very fluid and complicated
environment, making it difficult to determine when Dover will be called upon to
produce power. He stated that there are many producers inside the grid, but some are
being retired and coming offline because they are old coal technology. Mr. Koenig
stated that the call for who runs and who does not changes on a daily basis. When
nuclear power plants are offline for maintenance, many more facilities are called up
than when these plants are online and available. Mr. Koenig advised members that
there had been some difficulty with gas supply in the last couple of weeks, and he
hoped to find out more about that issue in meetings with The Energy Authority and
Eastern Shore Natural Gas. He referenced to inconsistences with gas transmission
and expressed his belief that this was due to the heavy demand of the new Calpine
facility.
Mr. Koenig indicated that the Electric Fund is tagged at roughly $89M of revenue in
this year’s budget, and this money is used to cover the cost to purchase power from
the system as well as the capital plan, which includes vehicle purchases, equipment
purchases, line replacements, substation upgrades and/or replacements, and
replacement of both large and small transformers. This revenue also supports needs
related to facilities and infrastructure and a transfer from the Electric Fund to the
General Fund. In the FY 16 budget, approximately $10.85M will transfer from
public utilities directly into the General Fund, $10M from the Electric Fund and
$850,000 from the Water/Wastewater Fund.
Regarding the electric utility, Mr. Koenig stated that the City serves approximately
23,000 customers, ranging from single-family houses all the way up to the Dover Air
Force Base. A cost of service study was performed to properly allocate costs and
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 34
identify what the rates should be for each class of customer. Mr. Koenig noted that
the City of Dover residential electric rates are the lowest in the State of Delaware but
the commercial rates are not the lowest.
Mr. Koenig stated that the water and sewer system service territory is not quite as big
as the electric service system. He noted that the City serves areas outside its
corporate limits and has interconnection agreements with Tidewater Utilities, who
purchases water from the City in the northwest portion of the City and supplies
subdivisions northwest of the City. In addition, Tidewater purchases water from
Dover through the Lakeland interconnection for the Lakeland Mobile Home Park and
businesses on South State Street. Mr. Koenig stated that the City’s relationship with
Tidewater over the last decade had been very good, noting that Tidewater has four (4)
of Dover’s top 20 meters.
Mr. Koenig explained that the water and sewer systems are accounted for separately
to ensure that the cost of water is covered by the water charge and the cost of sewer
by the sewer charge; however, these funds are intermingled in a water and sewer
enterprise fund. Total revenues expected in FY16 were $19.3M, including new
revenue projected from the Calpine facility. Mr. Koenig advised that originally, the
water system revenue was estimated to be about $1.6M and the sewer system in the
$300,000 range. He indicated that the water system consists of approximately 14,000
to 15,000 meters, requiring a lot of manpower for care and maintenance. Water
quality complaints were expected when Calpine came online but not many
complaints were received. It was hoped that water quality would improve since
water would be moving quickly through the system on that part of the City due to
Calpine’s demand.
Mr. Koenig stated that improvements were proposed over the long term for the water
system, including potentially developing another aquifer, noting that if this will be
necessary if Calpine builds a second generating unit. He indicated that the City has
a 1.5M gallon water tower under construction presently at the Garrison Oak
Technology Park, which is the City’s largest tower by about 50 percent and another
1M gallon tower was scheduled to be built in the north middle quadrant of the City
pending final resolution on a site. This would offset fire demands and provide
additional elevated storage for supply. Additional improvements will be made to the
system through pipe replacements.
Mr. Koenig advised members that staff expected to return to Council to review rates,
explaining that efficiency had affected the City’s water utilities. Plumbing codes had
changed, and low-flow fixtures and low-flush toilets had significantly reduced
household water usage. In the 1980s, a generic house used 300 gallons of water per
day, and now a generic house uses 250 gallons per day, a drop of 50 gallons per day,
which was a significant change when multiplied by 8,000 to 10,000 households.
Mr. Koenig stated other changes also affect the water/wastewater utility. In the early
1990s, Proctor & Gamble expanded their paper-making process, which put a
significant demand on the water system of approximately 600,000 gallons a day.
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However, in the last 10 years, they had stopped making that product at that location
and water demand decreased by 600,000 gallons per day. He indicated that it is
difficult to make up for these types of fluctuations in production and revenue. On the
electric side, Mr. Koenig informed members that a push for more efficient air
conditioning systems was affecting the electric utility. It was expected that electric
load, even with growth, may be relatively flat over the next few years due to the
implementation of systems using less power. He indicated that these are the types
of variables used to set rates, determine how to recover fixed costs, develop revenue
projections for future budgets, and review revenues for current budgets.
In regard to the sewer utility, Mr. Koenig stated that in the early 1970s, the City built
a sewage treatment plant at the old PW2 warehouse location at the end of Water
Street, which came online in about 1971. The plant was in operation for only a
couple of years when the City transferred all of its waste to Kent County.
Mr. Koenig expressed his opinion that the City was very fortunate to be with the
County system because it is not necessary to do any of the related permitting or worry
about the actual treatment of waste water coming out of of Dover. All flow from the
City of Dover is sent to the County by contract and they have an obligation, under
their Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) permit and Division of Natural
Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) permits, to treat the City’s waste
and deliver it to the Murderkill River in a state that is equal to or better than drinking
water quality. Mr. Koenig indicated that the City was benefitting today from not
having to run its wastewater treatment plant.
In terms of infrastructure, Mr. Koenig stated Dover has approximately 40 pump
stations, which vary from small stations serving eight (8) to 10 houses, to large pump
stations like the Puncheon Run station that serves industrial flow coming out of Kraft
and Procter & Gamble. Mr. Koenig pointed out that it is critical that those stations
work, noting that Dover had gone through replacement and renewals on the
wastewater side, and backup generation was being constructed at those facilities
because the potential for overflows into streams and rivers or onto the ground would
be significant if the power goes out. Mr. Koenig stated he is grateful that Dover has
such a reliable system with very few system-wide outages, noting the impact a power
outage can have, such as sewage backing up in people’s homes.
Mr. Koenig pointed out that owning its own utilities places the City in a good
position to attract businesses; however, it require a lot of hours and manpower to run
those enterprises. Because of the enterprise funds, the City recovers at least the cost
associated with running them, and the intent of Dover’s public utilities is to return
money to the General Fund as internal profit for going through the pain of having to
run the utilities, noting that they are 24/7 operations that require a lot of manpower,
capital, and time from the Mayor, Council, and staff to keep systems functioning. He
expressed his opinion that the City is in much better shape through owning the
utilities as it can better control its own destiny.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 36
In response to Mr. Neil regarding the cost to buy power if the City were not a
generator, Mr. Koenig explained that the City’s power plant and combustion turbine
act as a physical hedge for the City, which provides leverage in buying power. It was
his belief that Mr. Harry Maloney, Electric Director, may have estimated this cost at
roughly $2M. With no ability to generate, the City would be completely at the risk
of the market sale price. Because the City has its own generation, the market stops
at the City’s cost to produce into the market. Even though this cost can be relatively
high in some cases, it is much less than if the City were at risk in the market. He
noted that during really cold days this past winter, the per megawatt hour cost
exceeded $1,000, $1,500, or $1,800 per hour; therefore, having generation gave an
actual physical hedge that provided leverage in buying in the market.
Responding to Mr. Neil regarding whether a deal had been attained with Calpine,
Mr. Koenig advised that the City did not have a deal worked out with Calpine on
paper at this time. He stated that some regulation issues are being discussed with the
EPA that have a significant impact on the products and prices that would be offered
in the marketplace. Although the framework was in place, no one was willing to
strike a price until those issues are resolved. Mr. Koenig stated that once they are
resolved, staff would come before Council with a proposed agreement.
Responding to Mr. Anderson regarding the City’s industrial rates, Mr. Koenig
advised that commercial and industrial rates are grouped together and the City’s rates
rank in the middle to upper end.
TEA/NAES Reports (March and April)
The TEA/NAES Monthly Reports for March and April 2015 were provided to
members to enable them to monitor electric sales and revenues received, which will
provide a better understanding of any fluctuations that occur and allow the
opportunity to make improvements if deemed necessary.
Mr. Blakeman expressed his preference for having actual PJM invoices included in
the TEA/NAES reports versus the format used in the April report. In response to
Mr. Blakeman, Mr. Koenig stated that would contact TEA/NAES to make this
request.
Discussion Item Proposed During the FY 2015/16 Budget Review - Cost-Benefit
Analysis of Power Plant Operation
Mr. Scott Koenig. City Manager, stated that a motion was made during the
FY 2015/16 budget review that the City consider performing a cost/benefit analysis
of its power plant operation. Mr. Koenig stated that in the five (5) year forecast, the
power plant was slightly negative in cash during one (1) year but positive in all other
years. Mr. Koenig noted that a one (1) year cost/benefit analysis would not be
beneficial since a decision could not be made based on a return of one (1) year and
stated the need to define the timeline of the analysis. He stated that, without
question, owning the physical plant and having the ability to contract its operation
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 37
and oversee its contracts would be the right thing to do for the benefit of customers.
Mr. Koenig felt that reviewing it on an annualized basis would provide only a
snapshot, whereas a profile over years showed it had been a benefit to the City and
would continue to be in the foreseeable future.
Responding to Mr. Blakeman regarding the life expectancy of Unit 3, Mr. Koenig
stated that Mr. Harry Maloney, Electric Director, estimated there would be
approximately 10 years before there were concerns regarding its life expectancy.
When discussing the life expectancy of Units 1 and 2, North American Energy
Services (NAES) engineers had indicated that the units could last as long as desired,
depending on what the City wanted to put into them. Mr. Koenig indicated that the
projected life expectancy of the turbine was roughly 50 years. He advised members
that the City was doing everything it could to get it to 50 years, and when closing in
on this time frame, would make decisions on whether to maintain or replace that unit.
Mr. Koenig stated that replacement would cost roughly $1M per MW; therefore,
replacing it would be more than a $120M expense.
Mr. Blakeman questioned if decreased prices due to the impact of older coal-fired
generation units being replaced with gas turbines had been a concern when
considering the life expectancy of this unit. He felt that it may be priced out of the
market and not be called to run. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that this was a
concern; however, The Energy Authority (TEA) does a good job of looking at those
numbers on an annualized basis. He reiterated that in spite of initial concerns that
Dover would not be called upon once Calpine was on board, that had not been the
case, but could potentially be in the future.
Mr. Blakeman stated his opinion that Calpine may be asking to put in a second unit
a year from now. Mr. Koenig concurred that this was a possibility.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison regarding the projected cost associated with keeping
Units 1 and 2 running, Mr. Koenig stated that the consensus was that it would be
more cost effective to the City to build new generation versus maintaining the current
units or to execute a purchase power agreement.
The Committee deferred Item #5, Updates, to the July 13, 2015 Utility Committee
Meeting.
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for acceptance of the Utility Committee Report, seconded
by Mr. Hosfelt and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Cole absent).
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE REPORT -
JUNE 22, 2015
The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee met on June 22, 2015 with Chairman Hare
presiding.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 38
Disposition of City Owned Land – Properties Located at 423 Collins Drive,
749 West North Street, and 29 South Governors Avenue
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, informed members that the City of Dover acquired
properties located at 423 Collins Drive, 749 West North Street, and 29 South
Governors Avenue at a monition sale due to liens for taxes and demolition expenses.
He stated that these are excess properties, as the City has no use for them and would
be better served by the properties being redeveloped and restored as taxable
properties.
Mr. Koenig advised that the City has a procedure for Sale and Disposition of Real
Property, which includes a “Standard Method of Disposition” that begins at the
Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee. As articulated in the
procedure, the first decision by Council (after a favorable recommendation by the
Committee) is whether or not to dispose of the surplus property and, subsequently,
to determine the method of disposal (auction or sealed bid).
Mr. Koenig reviewed the City’s expenses and other charges, as well as the City’s
2015 Assessed Land Value for each property, as follows:
City’s 2015
City Expenses and Assessed Land
Address Other Charges Value
423 Collins Drive $ 20,481.13 $ 39,200.00
29 S. Governors Avenue $ 23,828.90 $ 13,600.00
749 W. North Street $ 19,889.45 $ 52,300.00
Mr. Koenig noted that the City’s expenses and other charges are inclusive of property
tax, sheriff sale preparation fees, grass charges, utility charges, and demolition
charges. He explained that for two (2) of the three (3) properties, the City’s expenses
are less than the land value, and staff was of the opinion that these properties should
be put back on the market through sealed bid versus being gifted. The City could
potentially recover additional costs and reduce the amount of the potential write-off
by seeking bids on the vacant property. Additionally, these properties were not
located in the areas where local housing non-profit organizations were focusing their
efforts to acquire and develop properties.
Staff recommended the following action: 1) determine that the properties are excess
property; and 2) authorize the City Manager to dispose of the properties using the
“Standard Method of Disposition.”
Mr. Koenig stated that the “Standard Method of Disposition” for these properties
would be through sealed bid, explaining that staff had put together a very generic bid
package, including property information and zoning information. He informed
members that those packages go to the City’s purchasing agent and are posted on the
City’s website, and the City would receive bids on a specified date. Mr. Koenig
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 39
explained that staff had talked to several developers, in the context of the downtown
development district, that had expressed interest in these properties. He stated that
since staff believed that, at a minimum, there would be several people interested in
bidding on these properties, the recommendation was to dispose of them through
sealed bid.
The Committee recommended that the properties located at 423 Collins Drive,
749 West North Street, and 29 South Governors Avenue be designated to be sold and
determined to be excess property, and that the City Manager be authorized to dispose
of the subject properties using the “Standard Method of Disposition.”
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for approval of the Committee's recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Cole absent).
Discussion Items Proposed During Budget Review
Due Diligence Research on Health Insurance Costs
Mr. Anderson stated that he was definitely a supporter of maintaining the quality of
the City healthcare plan and ensuring that there is no diminution of that quality. He
expressed his opinion that the City employees and taxpayers would welcome looking
at opportunities to see if they can have the same quality of coverage and pay less
money, particularly since there is cost sharing. Mr. Anderson advised that Kent
County pays less money than the City does for similar coverage. He suggested that
the City at least look at and study the process to determine whether or not the City
and the taxpayers can save money, since this is one (1) of the largest line items in the
City’s budget. He noted that it would be irresponsible for the City not to do so.
In reference to Mr. Anderson’s statement that Kent County pays less than the City for
the same healthcare coverage, Mr. Sudler questioned what agency Kent County uses.
Responding, Mr. Anderson stated that Kent County uses L & W Insurance.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mr. Anderson stated that Kent County has the same
Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance coverage as the City.
Mr. Sudler questioned whether the City had received any bid proposals from L & W
Insurance and inquired as to the City Manager’s thoughts on this company.
Responding, Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, recalled that in 2011 the City did
either a request for proposals or a request for cost, and L & W Insurance did submit
information; however, the recommendation was to stay with the State of Delaware.
He advised that the playing field changes yearly, so it would be something that the
City would have to pursue for FY 2017. Mr. Koenig reminded members that
currently all of the City’s collective bargaining agreements reference the State of
Delaware plan. He explained that for the City to change plans, the contracts would
have to be altered going forward, noting that two (2) of the contracts are up for
negotiation now.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 40
Mr. Shevock questioned whether the City had ever considered putting a cap on what
the City pays to cover an employee’s healthcare coverage. In response, Mr. Koenig
indicated that prior to 2011, the City had a committee with multiple stakeholders in
the City that discussed ways to control costs. However, he explained that one (1) of
the difficulties was that none of the unions would recommend ways to control costs
because they thought that was part of the collective bargaining process for those
particular groups. Mr. Koenig advised that, essentially, the City has six (6) different
groups in the healthcare plan, including the four (4) unions; non-bargaining
employees, which includes approximately 40 employees; and all of the retirees that
are on the plan, who are not represented directly by anyone. He stated that a cap
would have to be negotiated for any of the union contracts, and it would be a
challenging task to implement a cap, dealing with six (6) different groups
Responding to Mr. Hare, Mr. Koenig explained that the language in at least two (2)
of the union contracts is very specific in reference to the State of Delaware plans. He
advised that if the City were to change its insurance plan, even if the same coverage
was provided at a lower cost, it would have to be accomplished through the collective
bargaining process, noting that there is a price to pay for that, just like everything else
in the contract.
Mayor Christiansen questioned how much the City’s healthcare cost with the State
of Delaware had increased. In response, Mr. Koenig advised that it was a little more
than 16%.
Mayor Christiansen indicated that the increase in the City’s healthcare cost was one
(1) of the reasons for the increase in the City’s tax rate and budget, and questioned
whether Kent County had fewer employees than the City. Responding, Mr. Hare
stated that Kent County had 350 people on their health plan, including employees and
retirees.
Mayor Christiansen offered to lead a committee consisting of himself, a human
resource person, the Assistant City Manager, and the City Treasurer to compare what
is available in healthcare benefits with L&W Insurance and perhaps others, put out
a request for proposals (RFP), and make sure that the City is getting the biggest bang
for its dollar. Mayor Christiansen noted that it was his understanding that with the
continued State contracts, there is a possibility that next year the City’s cost could go
up 20 to 25%. He stated that this committee would report back to Council within 45
to 60 days.
Mr. Hare stated that he would like to include other people on the committee as well,
and expressed his opinion that, with her current workload, Mrs. Donna Mitchell,
Controller/Treasurer, may not need to be involved with this committee at this time.
Responding, Mayor Christiansen suggested having the Assistant Treasurer serve on
the committee, or someone who has the numbers.
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Mr. Koenig stated that this would not be a 45 to 60 day undertaking, noting that it
would probably take four (4) to six (6) months, at a minimum. He explained that the
quotes would be for July of 2016 and an insurance provider may say that they can
save the City money for one (1) year; however, they cannot guarantee anything after
that. Mr. Koenig stated that this is currently one (1) of the most unstable areas in the
economy to be reviewing. He reminded members that this was a huge issue related
to the City workforce and would cause major strife moving forward.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mr. Koenig stated that no one could provide a guarantee on
costs, even the State of Delaware; however, he expressed his opinion that being part
of a larger group is more beneficial for the City of Dover.
Mrs. Mitchell clarified that the State is a self-insured plan; however, the insurance
that Kent County has is not a self-insured plan. Mrs. Mitchell stated that Aetna and
Blue Cross Highmark, and Blue Cross Blue Shield had gone to the insurance
commissioner to request a 20% to 25% increase, which would affect the County plan,
not the State self-insured plan.
Mr. Hare stated that he did not want to change the coverage or reduce it so that the
deductible would be higher, etc. His concern was that the City did not know whether
or not its insurance rates could have been reduced during the past four (4) to five (5)
years. Mr. Hare stated that the rates were worth examining, even if it were to take
four (4) to six (6) months, as long as the committee would be led by the Mayor.
Mayor Christiansen stated that he would take this responsibility and Council could
set up the committee as it wants. He explained that the City had an obligation to the
taxpayers and employees for maintenance of standards. Mayor Christiansen felt that
the City needs to know whether the current insurance is the best deal available for all
concerned, while maintaining the coverage employees had become accustomed to.
Mr. Shevock moved to recommend approval of Mayor Christiansen’s proposal to go
forward with the health insurance cost research, seconded by Mr. Sudler.
Mr. Cole questioned whether or not there would be a timeline or checkpoints
associated with this recommendation, noting that, realistically, it would take a long
time.
In response, Mr. Hare stated that the committee should have some results back by the
first of the year. Mayor Christiansen suggested the beginning of the budget process.
Mrs. Traci McDowell, City Clerk, questioned whether the Committee wanted to
define the number of members and the charge of the recommended committee, so
that Council will know exactly what they are voting on when this recommendation
is considered.
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Responding, Mr. Hare suggested that the committee consist of at least two (2)
members of Council, the City Manager, Mayor, Human Resources Director, and the
Controller/Treasurer or her assistant.
Mr. Shevock and Mr. Sudler agreed to the amendment to the motion as
recommended by Mr. Hare.
The Committee recommended approval of Mayor Christiansen’s proposal to go
forward with the health insurance cost research, as amended to include the creation
of a committee to consist of at least two (2) members of Council, the City Manager,
Mayor, Human Resources Director, and the Controller/Treasurer or her assistant.
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for approval of the Committee's recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Cole absent).
Performance Audit of Civilian Side of City Government
Mr. Anderson suggested that members begin to look at city government from the
perspective of efficiency and examine the benefits of a performance audit, noting that
there are many ways to look at better ways of governing. He informed members that
the State of Delaware has some processes with the Baldrige Awards, through which
the City could get money to look at efficiency. Mr. Anderson stated that these
excellence awards provide different goals, and there are options for various other
performance audits. He recommended that the City explore these options since
Council was considering tax and utility rate increases, and members need to be able
to tell people, with assurance, that the City is using their money in the best way.
Mayor Christiansen reminded members that the City had an Ad Hoc Financial and
Operational Advisory Committee; however, they seemed to have fallen by the
wayside. He suggested that the City take advantage of professional people within the
community, including citizens, retired business executives, etc. in order to complete
a review of each department with in-house personnel. Mayor Christiansen expressed
his opinion that the City should re-energize the Ad Hoc Financial and Operational
Advisory Committee with new members to review all departments and report back
to Council with their findings. He stated that he would like to serve as the
chairperson, noting that he had the time and could do an in-depth review.
Mayor Christiansen reiterated that this review should be done in-house, although the
committee could include a member or two (2) of Council, if the Committee so
wished. He noted that this suggestion was not to be critical of any City staff;
however, he felt it important to develop mechanisms to streamline some of the
departments in the interest of the taxpayers.
Responding to Mr. Hare, Mrs. Traci McDowell, City Clerk, stated that the Ad Hoc
Financial and Operational Advisory Committee consisted of seven (7) members.
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, expressed her appreciation of everyone's
interest in this topic. She agreed that the City should look at some things to
determine whether anything can be done differently or better. Mrs. Mitchell
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 43
requested that staff be allowed to brainstorm ideas and bring them back to Council,
prior to the appointment of an ad hoc committee. She advised that throwing together
a committee could result in the same issues that the City experienced with the
previously ad hoc committee.
In response to Mrs. Mitchell’s comments, Mayor Christiansen stated that this would
be a different committee, and expressed his opinion that time was of the essence and
the committee could coordinate its efforts before moving forward.
Mrs. Mitchell agreed that time was of the essence and requested an opportunity for
staff to bring recommendations to the Committee within July or the first week of
August. She stated that staff could work with Mayor Christiansen to include his
thoughts prior to bringing it back to Council.
Mr. Anderson stated that Mrs. Mitchell had been working on some efforts with the
City Warehouse and Finance Department, and the library had been conducting its
own efforts. He questioned if Mrs. Mitchell had any success in her efforts with the
City Warehouse or Finance Department. Responding, Mrs. Mitchell stated that staff
had not yet had success in those efforts and that is why she requested an opportunity
for staff to meet to discuss the roadblocks they had experienced and potential
bottlenecks so that they can try to resolve those issues and get everyone on the same
page. This would allow staff to present solutions and/or processes which they
believe will work and be accomplished in a timely manner.
Mr. Hare suggested that the Committee start by recommending a format for the ad
hoc committee. He inquired as to Mayor Christiansen’s opinion regarding having
seven (7) people on the committee, noting that two (2) members of Council could
agree to appoint one (1) member from each district, the at-large Council member
could appoint one (1) member, and the mayor could appoint two (2) members. He
suggested that the mayor would also serve as the chairperson.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mayor Christiansen expressed his opinion that the
committee format should serve the best interest of the citizens and include
representation throughout the entire City, and preferably the members would not have
predisposed agendas.
Council President Slavin advised that the Ad Hoc Financial and Operational
Advisory Committee was appointed by the Council President. He stated that he
would not be opposed to having an appointment of that type, explaining that the
Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee could make a recommendation
and the full Council would then take action on it to form the ad hoc committee.
Mr. Slavin offered a Plan B, which would allow members of Council to provide him
recommendations and he could simply reappoint the Ad Hoc Financial and
Operational Advisory Committee.
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Mr. Hutchison reminded members that there were five (5) new members of Council
and suggested that Council have an opportunity to discuss ideas in a workshop with
staff in order to develop a master plan to help the City move forward.
Mr. Hare agreed that a workshop may be the best first step, noting that it would
provide staff an opportunity to meet and bring their ideas forward to Council for
discussion. He stated that Council could then decide if this committee is necessary.
Mr. Anderson stated that he did not have any objections to staff taking a month,
noting the importance and benefits of staff buy-in. Referring to the potential of
forming a committee, Mr. Anderson expressed his hope that Council would allow the
City Manager’s appointee and the finance director, or her appointee, to be ex-officio
members.
Mr. Sudler stated that he liked both ideas, noting that the workshop idea would be
very beneficial to the new members of Council and that it is also important to have
buy-in from the community and involve them in the decision-making process.
Mr. Hosfelt requested clarification regarding the independent study which Council
previously voted in favor of conducting. Responding, Mr. Hare stated that the
independent study was for police and fire, and this study would include everything
else.
Mr. Cole moved to recommend that staff and Council report back their findings in
one (1) month. The motion failed for lack of a second.
Mr. Hare suggested that staff have their information ready by August 1, 2015 and that
a workshop be scheduled for the first part of August.
Mrs. McDowell requested clarification regarding what type of findings the
Committee was looking for. In response, Mrs. Mitchell explained that she was
referring to strategic plans or strategic ideas that staff believes would improve
processes and gain more efficiencies. She noted that these findings would not be all
inclusive.
Mrs. McDowell questioned if members of Council would be bringing their ideas to
a workshop. Responding, Mr. Hare clarified that Council would not do this; rather,
Council would meet to review staff’s ideas and proceed from there.
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, expressed his opinion that members of Council
should bring their ideas to the Council workshop in order to have a two-way
dialogue, since staff and Council may have different ideas regarding efficiency
improvements. He stated that he did not wish to present only staff’s ideas and
requested that members of Council provide staff with any specific ideas that they
would like to discuss prior to the workshop, so that staff can bring information to the
workshop.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 45
In response to Mr. Koenig’s comments, Mayor Christiansen expressed his opinion
that the committee needs to move forward.
Mr. Sudler requested Mrs. Mitchell to provide five (5) sections or segments of the
City that staff may consider first. Responding, Mrs. Mitchell stated that one (1)
example of the types of ideas she is considering is a central services fund which
would centralize fleet and operations in an effort to inventory all of the fleets and
implement cross-divisional fleet sharing. She explained that there would be a central
services manager who would schedule the fleet, ensure that the City is not buying
more equipment than necessary, and log the current equipment’s usage to determine
things like how often it is used and whether the City can rent equipment.
Mr. Sudler suggested that Mrs. Mitchell provide members of Council and the
Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee with the flowchart that she will
develop to direct staff’s focus, in order for everyone to focus on the same areas for
discussion at the workshop.
Mr. Hare questioned whether Mrs. Mitchell required Council approval to move
forward with her idea regarding a central services fund. Responding, Mrs. Mitchell
stated that she did not require Council approval and that she had begun discussing her
ideas with Mr. Koenig. She advised that she would like to include all department
heads in the strategic discussion because many have ideas that they would like to
share. Mrs. Mitchell explained that when you have a committee first, employees and
the public attend the meetings. She expressed her preference for department heads
to be given an opportunity to discuss their ideas and bring them together first.
Mayor Christiansen questioned what staff discusses during department head
meetings. In response, Mrs. Mitchell stated that staff’s current department head
meetings are for the discussion of agendas, and the City Manager also has individual
meetings with department heads.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mrs. Mitchell explained that she is not the operations
person, and allowing for a group discussion of all department heads would enable
staff to determine if there are reasons why these types of changes have not been
implemented in the past.
Ms. Maucher questioned whether a committee format would be more conducive to
open discussion between staff and Council. She favored the idea of a committee,
stating that this format allows for collaboration and for ideas to be sorted out.
Responding to Ms. Maucher, Mrs. Mitchell stated that she would not mind a
committee meeting; however, she requested the opportunity for staff to meet
independently prior to the committee meeting. Mrs. Mitchell reiterated that she was
in favor of a workshop that would allow everyone to be a part of the discussion.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 46
Ms. Maucher questioned whether there is a public document that details the
functions, workflows, etc. of each department. In response, Mrs. Mitchell explained
that this was included in the budget document and indicated that she would provide
Ms. Maucher with a copy.
Mr. Anderson stated that there was a review being conducted by the Mayor, Assistant
City Manager, and others, and suggested inviting them to provide their input as well.
Mr. Cole moved to recommend that the staff strategic planning team and members
of Council develop ideas by August 1, 2015 and that a workshop be scheduled after
August 1st. The motion was seconded by Mr. Sudler.
Mr. Hare noted that the Committee’s agenda for this evening also included an item
regarding Review of All Lifecycle Items (Report to Committee in 90 Days) and
questioned whether this could be part of the performance audit discussion.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mr. Koenig advised that these items were motions made
during the Special Council - Budget Review meetings and could all be part of the
performance audit discussion. He reminded members that the issue of the City’s
form of government still needed to be solidified. He indicated that he did not have
the ability to impose his goals for the entire organization because it was still unclear
who reports to whom, since the motions had been somewhat contradictory.
Mr. Koenig stated that staff looks for efficiencies across the organization; however,
Mrs. Mitchell’s idea regarding the creation of a centralized fleet was not a simple
undertaking because the City does not currently have that type of facility. He advised
that it may require construction of a new facility at an existing or new location.
Mr. Koenig thought it would be great to do a strategic plan in order to get these ideas
out there; however, he noted that these would be long-term goals.
Mr. Koenig stated that the items proposed during the budget hearings would require
a significant amount of staff time to develop and bring forward for consideration. It
was Mr. Koenig’s understanding that the Committee was prioritizing these items in
order for staff to bring them forward to Council on a regular basis. He informed
members that there was a lot of difficulty with the Ad Hoc Financial and Operational
Advisory Committee because the workforce got extremely agitated by some of the
discussion. Mr. Koenig reminded everyone that he must keep the organization
moving forward and focused on the task while discussing all of these issues. He
stated that this needs to have a very position spin, explaining that these are
improvements to better the organization and service delivery, noting that everyone
wants to provide services to the City at the lowest cost possible.
Mr. Koenig stated that the City needs to decide step by step how to move forward.
He reiterated his request for a resolution to the form of government issue, so that
there is a clear understanding of what items needs to be brought forward to Council.
Mr. Hare agreed that the City does need to fix the form of government.
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Mayor Christiansen concurred with Mr. Koenig; however, he stated that a new
committee with responsibilities assigned by the Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee and Council could prove to be very productive on behalf
of the citizens.
Mrs. Mitchell stated that she did not go into all of the details with the Committee;
however, when she discussed the idea of central services with the City Manager, it
did include a building project. She expressed her thoughts that the list of proposed
items discussed during the Special Council - Budget Review meetings could be
prioritized first and then brought back to Council. Mrs. Mitchell agreed that many
of these items could be included in the strategic plan discussion in August.
The Committee recommended that the staff strategic planning team and members of
Council develop ideas by August 1, 2015 and a workshop be scheduled after August
1, 2015.
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for approval of the Committee's recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Cole absent).
Proposed New Revenue Sources for FY 2016/17
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, advised that staff would be prepared to bring
forward recommendations for new revenue sources in the August/September time
frame.
Public Safety Fee Study
Mr. Hare explained that he had contacted the City Solicitor’s office and has
appointments with other people to determine the feasibility of the City moving
forward with this study and requested that discussion of this item be deferred.
The Committee deferred consideration of this matter.
Review of All Lifecycle Items (Report to Committee in 90 Days)
Mr. Hare reminded members that this matter was previously discussed during
consideration of the Performance Audit of Civilian Side of City Government and
staff indicated that it would be included as part of that discussion in the future.
Review of Internal Applicant Hiring/Training Opportunities
Mr. Sudler advised that the purpose of this discussion was to ensure that City
employees have the opportunity to apply for other positions within the City and if
they are not awarded a position because they do not meet the qualifications, that
training is provided to enable them to be awarded the job in the future or be in a
better position to compete for the job.
Mr. Cole questioned the Committee’s position on this item, noting that in his
professional career, this is a collective bargaining issue. Responding, Mr. Sudler
stated that this would be for all employees because any employee can apply for an
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internal position, whether or not they are in a union. Mr. Sudler advised that
management previously indicated that the City does provide employees with
opportunities for professional enhancement training.
Mr. Hare clarified that the City provides employees training for their current
positions. He explained that an accountant who was interested in become the finance
director could go to school and take accounting classes; however, the City would not
send an accountant to school to become a city planner. Mr. Hare also noted that the
employee must take the initiative; management does not approach them regarding
their desire to move up within the organization.
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, explained that this is a two-way street. Referring
to some of the City’s labor positions, he stated that there is always follow-up with an
employee who is not selected for a position to help prepare him/her for the next job
opportunity with the City; however, there are issues, such as the ability to use
computers or basic software.
Mr. Koenig advised that it is somewhat incumbent on the employee to make
management aware of their desire to move up, to find out exactly why they were not
selected for a position, and to ask about future training opportunities. He explained
that the City does not pre-select employees to go to training or move up; an employee
must identify themself as someone who wants to move up and meet the
qualifications.
Mr. Koenig reminded members that training and travel had been cut from the City
budget for several years; however, that approach impaired the City and the employees
from being in a position to understand current trends and technology, as well as being
prepared for the next round of supervisory positions and promotions. He stated that
funding for training had been added back into each division budget over the past four
(4) fiscal years to allow for at least a basic level of training. Mr. Koenig noted that
once employees have met the basic level, they can seek more advanced levels of
training. He explained that this funding had been reinstated, with the understanding
of each department head that it must be used for training. Mr. Koenig stated that
managers had generally met challenges and sent people to training. He reiterated that
employees must meet managers halfway, and managers have to hold employees
accountable to get training to qualify for the next level within the organization.
Review of the Pay System
Mr. Hutchison recommended that the City complete an internal review of the market
value of all City of Dover employees to assess whether or not they are at market
value. He suggested that the City compare the market with the State of Delaware,
Kent County Levy Court, City of Wilmington, City of Newark, and City of Milford.
Mr. Hutchison expressed his opinion that once an individual reaches market value,
they should be redlined. He explained that the individual would be entitled to
bonuses but not an increase in base salary. Mr. Hutchison suggested that the
Committee should meet with the City Manager and Controller/Treasurer to address
this issue.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 49
Mr. Hare questioned whether Mr. Hutchison would be opposed to including
additional cities, such as Smyrna and Lewes, to the review. Responding,
Mr. Hutchison stated that he would not be opposed to additional cities; however, it
was his opinion that the comparison should be done within Delaware.
Mr. Hare suggested that the cities should have similar tax situations as the City of
Dover, noting that the City of Wilmington’s tax bracket was a little higher than the
City of Dover and they also have a City wage tax. He stated that the City of Newark
would be a good comparison.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mr. Hutchison explained that he had suggested the cities of
Wilmington and Newark because they are the same size as the City of Dover, in
terms of land, and they also face many of the same issues as the City of Dover.
Mr. Sudler moved to recommend that the Legislative, Finance, and Administration
Committee review other cities in order to complete a comparison of the pay for the
City’s employees versus other cities’ employees. The motion was seconded by
Ms. Maucher.
Mr. Sudler moved to amend the motion to include a recommendation to create a list
of cities that members deem appropriate to review for recommendations. The motion
was seconded by Ms. Maucher.
Mr. Shevock questioned who would compile this information and bring it back to the
Committee. Responding, Mr. Hare clarified that the motion before the Committee
was to get the list of positions from Mr. Hutchison before moving forward.
The Committee recommended that the Legislative, Finance, and Administration
Committee review other cities in order to complete a comparison of the pay for the
City’s employees versus other city employees, as amended to include that a list of
cities be created that members deem appropriate to review for recommendations.
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for approval of the Committee's recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Cole absent).
Review of Planning Application, Zoning Verification, Itinerant Merchant, Safe
Communities, Residential Vacant Building and Housing Violation Fees
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development,
stated that this item and the next item, Review of Planning and Inspections Fees (by
December 31, 2015), were really the same item. She advised that she had begun
work on this and would be prepared to bring a recommendation forward to the
Committee in late July.
The Committee deferred consideration of this matter.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 50
Review of Planning and Inspections Fees (by December 31, 2015)
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development,
stated that this item and the previous item, Review of Planning Application, Zoning
Verification, Itinerant Merchant, Safe Communities, Residential Vacant Building and
Housing Violation Fees, were really the same item. She advised that she had begun
work on this and would be prepared to bring a recommendation forward to the
Committee in late July.
The Committee deferred consideration of this matter.
Timeline for Review of Fiscal Year 2016/17 Budget
Mr. Hare proposed having a preliminary budget by February 1, 2016, to allow more
time for review.
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, advised that any request to compress the time
would create a set of challenges for staff. He informed members that it takes staff
several months to compile and review the information, which must then be formatted
for members of Council. Mr. Koenig stated that changing the budget timeline would
add more uncertainty, explaining that if Council would like to see a budget in
February, all of the numbers would have to be finalized by January, which would
result in the budget being compiled based on only five (5) to six (6) months of
current year revenue and expense. Based on his experience over the last four (4)
years, Mr. Koenig stated that the compressed period would cause the City to make
decisions in a strict time frame.
Mr. Hare stated that his intention was not to have a full budget or even exact numbers
by February or even March 1st. He simply wanted to know what the department
heads were projecting for the fiscal year, explaining that he would like a head start
if the City was going to have an unexpected $2M expense.
Mr. Koenig advised that the FY 2015/2016 operating budgets were basically status
quo because that was the budget direction that was provided to staff last fall. He
explained that the original budget direction was for a 2% reduction in operating
budgets; however, that got off track when the City added officers mid-year.
Mr. Koenig stated that he could provide a projection in February, noting that his
expectation would be status quo. He noted that there should not be any unplanned
$2M increases to any budget unless there is a drastic change in some market, which
Council would be made aware of.
Mr. Hare suggested having a preliminary budget by April 1, 2016.
Mayor Christiansen questioned if a preliminary budget could be delivered by the end
of March that would provide a more realistic view of what staff would present at the
end of April.
Mr. Koenig requested that this item be deferred until the next meeting to allow time
for him and Mrs. Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, to discuss the possibility of
delivering the draft budget on April 2, 2016.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 51
The Committee deferred consideration of this matter until their next meeting.
Mr. Hare requested the addition of an item to the next Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee meeting for discussion of the City’s form of government.
Responding, Mrs. Traci McDowell, City Clerk, advised that the proposed ordinances
and charter amendments related to the City’s form of government were included on
the draft agenda for the July 13, 2015 Committee meeting.
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for acceptance of the Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and carried by a unanimous roll
call vote (Cole absent).
MONTHLY REPORTS - MAY 2015
By motion of Mr. Hare, seconded by Mr. Hosfelt, the following monthly reports were accepted
by consent agenda:
City Assessor's Report
City Manager's Report
City Planner's Report
Controller/Treasurer's Budget Report
Economic Development Office Report
Fire Chief's Report
Police Chief's Report
GRANT APPLICATION EVALUATION - WATER TREATMENT PLANT PROCESS
IMPROVEMENTS
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, explained that, in Fiscal Year 2015, the City began working on a
project to improve the treatment processes at the Long Point Road Water Treatment Plant, which
began operation in approximately 1994. The treatment equipment is original and it has aged over
time. Mr. Koenig noted that it has gone from being state-of-the-art equipment to being obsolete in
the treatment industry.
Mr. Koenig advised that the original intent was to replace the existing treatment methods with
similar technology and more state-of-the-art machinery. After the consulting engineers visited the
site and began the sampling, as well as trying to anticipate how the City’s treatment methods will
coincide with current standards and regulations, it was determined that the methods they originally
intended to use will not function at the level anticipated, so the design requirements were modified
at an additional cost.
Noting that the anticipated design budget had increased from $175,000 to $310,275, Mr. Koenig
advised members that staff was requesting authorization to submit a drinking water matching
planning grant in the amount of $79,744. He advised that staff intends to apply for the grant,
complete the rest of the design in FY16, and then reevaluate the construction costs once the final
design is complete. Mr. Koenig stated that they believe the construction costs will be significantly
higher than the anticipated $1.2M, which will require a funding plan for the capital improvements
associated with the construction costs. He advised that they will evaluate the project with the FY17
budget and the five (5) year plan going forward.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 52
Mr. Koenig explained that this treatment facility is one (1) of the primary sources of production for
the new Calpine plant. He noted that when the Long Point Road Treatment Plant was originally
constructed, it was anticipated that this would be the baseline flow for the system. Mr. Koenig stated
that, in the 20 years since it was constructed, it has been used as a peaking plant, especially in the
summertime for the increase in water usage across the system. He stated that, now that the Calpine
facility is in operation, this is an important facility for stable production across the City.
Staff recommended authorization to submit the grant application to Delaware Health & Social
Services (DHSS) for a Drinking Water Matching Planning Grant for the second phase of design for
the City of Dover Water Treatment Plant Process Improvements project in accordance with the
Finance Department's Grant Application Procedure F317.
Mr. Anderson asked if this was a state grant or if it was a pass-through from the federal government.
Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that it was part of the state revolving fund, similar to the money that
was used for the tar ditch project.
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, stated that several of the revolving loan funds include
federal funds and would be included in the annual federal audit.
Mr. Anderson asked what obligations would be attached to the grant. Responding, Mr. Koenig
stated that he did not believe that there were specific obligations with the planning grant. He noted
that construction financing would obligate the City in regard to wage rates.
Mr. Anderson asked if this was a grant or a loan. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that the City would
pay the contractor or the engineering firm and then submit the bills for reimbursement. He noted that
repayment to the state was not required.
Mr. Hutchison moved to authorize staff to submit the grant application to Delaware Health
& Social Services (DHSS) for a Drinking Water Matching Planning Grant for the second
phase of design for the City of Dover Water Treatment Plant Process Improvements project
in the amount of $79,744. The motion was seconded by Mr. Anderson and carried by a
unanimous roll call vote (Cole absent).
COUNCIL APPOINTMENTS - YOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE - ONE (1) YEAR
TERMS TO EXPIRE MAY 9, 2016
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for approval of appointments to the Youth Advisory
Commission. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and, by a unanimous roll call vote
(Cole absent), the following appointments were made for a one (1) year term to expire
May 9, 2016:
Jordan Harmon
Rocher Hopkins
Zorana Ilic
Michael Kosior
Theresa Morris
Lauren Scott
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 53
COUNCIL MEMBERS' ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Anderson announced that on Monday, July 20, 2015, the Delaware Attorney General's Office
will be holding a housing workshop at the Modern Maturity Center between 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
He noted that they will have educational sessions on housing rights, how to avoid scams, and how
to find certified housing counselors and mortgage lenders. Mr. Anderson stated that there would be
services on-site, along with representatives from the Attorney General's office, the police, the
Housing Authority, and other agencies. He noted that more information was available at
DelawareHomeownerRelief.com.
Mr. Sudler announced that he and Councilman Anderson, in partnership with Mt. Zion AME Church
Social Action Commission, will conduct a roundtable dialogue concerning the City of Dover's
off-road vehicle ordinance and constituents' reports of shots fired in residents’ homes on Kirkwood,
Queen, and New Streets in Dover. The dialogue will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2015 from
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Solid Rock Baptist Church Community Outreach Center, 113 North
West Street, Dover. Mr. Sudler suggested calling either him or Councilman Anderson for additional
information.
Mr. Sudler moved to adjourn into the Special Council meeting to discuss legal matters. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
TRACI A. McDOWELL
CITY CLERK
All orders, ordinances, and resolutions adopted by City Council during their Regular Meeting of
July 13, 2015, are hereby approved.
ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
MAYOR
/TM
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\Council-Minutes\2015\07-13-2015.wpd
Exhibits
Exhibit #1 - Presentation - Violation of Dangerous Building Ordinance - 200 North West Street
Exhibit #2 - Presentation - Violation of Dangerous Building Ordinance - 311 North Governors Avenue
Página 58
EXHIBIT #1
Regular Council Meeting of 07/13/2015
Violation of Dangerous
Building Ordinance
200 N West St
Planning & Inspections Department
Dover, Delaware
July 13, 2015
Página 59
200 N West St
Case History
20 code enforcement cases since 2002
– Abandoned/Junked vehicles – junk & debris
– Parking on the grass – old tires in yard
– Numerous grass violations – tree overgrowth
– Closing of a vacant structure, busted doors & windows
The utilities were terminated on January 28, 2008
and remained off until new services were
connected on August 4, 2014.
Registered vacant by the city on January 11, 2013
Condemned by City Staff on June 6, 2013 due to
no active utilities, open code violations, busted
windows and doors. City Staff had the windows
and doors boarded.
Página 60
200 N West St
Case History
Residential use not permitted in the M
(Manufacturing) Zone.
January 15, 2014 – Board of Adjustment issued a
variance to allow residential use to continue
December 9, 2014 – Building Inspection – work was
disapproved.
Variance has expired, as work has not commenced
and continued diligently within the year since
variance was issued.
Página 61
Dangerous Building Code –
Chapter 22 Article XI, Sec. 22-381
(5) Unfit for habitation.
(9) General welfare.
(10) Code violations.
(12) Unoccupied buildings.
Página 81
Recommended Council Action
Declare this building and all accessory structures on this property
dangerous.
Order the property repaired or demolished by August 13, 2015 by
the owner or equity owner at their own risk.
Order the Building Inspector to cause the repair or demolition of
the structures if not completed by the owner within 10 days of
the date established by City Council.
Order the City Manager with the assistance of the City Solicitor to
cause the cost of repairs or demolition to be charged against the
land on which the building exists as a municipal lien or cause such
cost to be added to the tax duplicate as an assessment, or to be
levied as a special tax, or to be recovered in a suit at law against
the owner.
Página 82
EXHIBIT #2
Regular Council Meeting of 07/13/2015
Violation of Dangerous
Building Ordinance
311 N Governors Ave
Planning & Inspections Department
Dover, Delaware
July 13, 2015
Página 83
311 N Governors Ave
Case History
16 code enforcement cases since 2002
– Exterior code violations – trash/debris in yard
– Vehicles parked on the grass – flaking paint
– Interior violations – excessive load to the structure caused
by the hoarding conditions within the home – weak floors
Utilities were terminated on April 1, 2014.
Condemned by City Staff on April 8, 2014
Registered as a vacant building.
A renovation permit has been submitted and
approved by staff.
$400.00 in unpaid Code Enforcement Fines.
Página 84
Dangerous Building Code –
Chapter 22 Article XI, Sec. 22-381
(5) Unfit for habitation.
(9) General welfare.
(10) Code violations.
(12) Unoccupied buildings.
Página 108
Recommended Council Action
Declare this building and all accessory structures on this property
dangerous.
Order the property repaired or demolished by August 13, 2015 by
the owner or equity owner at their own risk.
Order the Building Inspector to cause the repair or demolition of
the structures if not completed by the owner within 10 days of
the date established by City Council.
Order the City Manager with the assistance of the City Solicitor to
cause the cost of repairs or demolition to be charged against the
land on which the building exists as a municipal lien or cause such
cost to be added to the tax duplicate as an assessment, or to be
levied as a special tax, or to be recovered in a suit at law against
the owner.
Página 109
ACTION FORM
PROCEEDING: City Council
DEPARTMENT OF ORIGIN: Planning & Inspections DATE SUBMITTED: 7-16-2015
PREPARED BY: Ann Marie Townshend, AICP, Director of Planning and Community Development
SUBJECT: 110 Rustic Ln, Dover, Delaware – Violation of Dangerous Building Ordinance
REFERENCE: Chapter 22, Article XI – Dangerous Buildings, Sec. 22-385 - Hearing before Council and Chapter 22,
Article XI - Dangerous Buildings Case # 15-435 & 14-949
RELATED PROJECT: N/A
APPROVALS: N/A
EXHIBITS: PowerPoint Presentation and File Photos to be presented at the Council meeting.
EXPENDITURE REQUIRED: Preliminary estimate is $20,000 - $30,000
AMOUNT BUDGETED: $175,000.00 Budgeted for all demolitions Citywide in the FY-2016 Budget
FUNDING SOURCE (Dept./Page in CIP & Budget): 110-1600-534-30-33.
TIMETABLE: As soon as possible.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
1. Declare this building and all accessory structures on this property dangerous.
2. Order the property repaired or demolished by August 27, 2015 by the owner or equity owner at their own risk.
3. Order the Building Inspector to cause the repair or demolition of the structures if not completed by the owner
within 10 days of the date established by City Council.
4. Order the City Manager with the assistance of the City Solicitor to cause the cost of repairs or demolition to be
charged against the land on which the building exists as a municipal lien or cause such cost to be added to the tax
duplicate as an assessment, or to be levied as a special tax, or to be recovered in a suit at law against the owner.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The property is owned by Taililou LLC. The property is a one-story wood-framed single family home with an attached
enclosed in-ground concrete pool. The house was registered as a vacant building on April 9, 2014 and condemned on
February 19, 2015 as unfit for human occupancy due to no utilities and the deteriorated condition of the property. The
owner was ordered to board the property in April of 2015. Currently the home is still vacant, with no active utilities and
numerous outstanding code violations.
Página 110
PARKS, RECREATION, AND
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee meeting was held on
July 13, 2015, at 3:30 p.m. with Chairman Anderson presiding. Members present were Mr. Hosfelt,
Mr. Lewis, Mr. Caldwell, and Mrs. Horsey (arrived 3:32). Councilman Hutchison was also present.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
By unanimous consent, the agenda was approved as presented.
Review of Revised Active Recreation Area Plan - Eden Hill Farm Traditional Neighborhood
Design - Residential District
Mrs. Dawn Melson-Williams, Principal Planner, stated that this application is associated with the
Residential District Revised Implementation Plan for the Traditional Neighborhood Design project
known as Eden Hill Farm and advised members that a representative of the ownership company was
present and available to answer any questions.
Mrs. Melson-Williams explained that the project began in 2006 and is now under new ownership,
stating that the new owners have brought forth a revised implementation plan for how the property
will be developed. Mrs. Melson-Williams explained that the Planning Commission approved 742
units which are a mix of single-family, duplex, townhouse, and multi-family units.
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that the original plan for the open space and active recreation area
included a series of individual park areas scattered throughout the residential area. The proposed
revision is to develop a large central open space area, just over nine (9) acres, while retaining a series
of the smaller parks throughout the residential area.
Mrs. Melson-Williams explained that there is currently a total of approximately 83 housing units
constructed in the neighborhood, noting that the Zoning Ordinance for the City of Dover prescribes
how much active recreation space is required based on the number of units. She stated that this
project would require 4.68 acres of open space and active recreation area; however, the proposed
revisions well exceed that minimum requirement.
Referring to the Overall Open Space Site Plan, Mrs. Melson-Williams pointed out the nine (9) acre
central open space area. Mrs. Melson-Williams then referred to the Clubhouse Open Space Plan,
which focuses on the central open space and the number of amenities being proposed. She advised
members that this would include a clubhouse building, which has internal spaces such as a gym and
meeting rooms; a swimming pool; parking area to serve the facility; tennis courts; a basketball court;
a community garden; a playground; picnic area; and various amenities that go along with that, as
well as benches and bicycle racks.
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that Eden Hill Farm has a traditional neighborhood design for which
there is an associated pattern book with the details of what would have to be included in the project.
She indicated that, upon staff approval of the plan, staff provided the developer a series of
recommendations to be included. Mrs. Melson-Williams explained that staff is in support of the
concept for a large open space area, noting that staff had provided a series of comments to either
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clarify items on the plan or improve the project. Mrs. Melson-Williams asked the Committee to
review the active recreation plan and provide any comments or guidance on the parks and recreation
component of the proposal, stating that those comments would be forwarded to the Planning
Commission for consideration during their August meeting.
Staff recommended approval of the revised active recreation plan for the Eden Hill Farm Traditional
Neighborhood Design - Presidential District with the comments and conditions provided.
Ms. Andrea Finerosky, Pettinaro Construction Company, stated that they were representing
Eden Hill and were also the developer of Blue Hen Apartments. Ms. Finerosky advised members
that the clubhouse proposed for Eden Hill is similar to the one at Blue Hen Apartments; however,
the one at Blue Hen is only 2,200 sq. ft., whereas the clubhouse for Eden Hill will be 5,000 sq. ft.
to accommodate the larger tenant base.
In response to Mr. Caldwell, Ms. Finerosky stated that the open space will either be maintained by
the developer or the homeowners association (HOA).
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt, Ms. Finerosky stated that Pettinaro is overall in agreement with the
recommendations made by staff, noting that Pettinaro needs further clarification on some points.
In response to Mr. Hutchison, Ms. Finerosky stated that Pettinaro will manage the project and the
management team will be similar to the team at the Blue Hen Apartments. Mr. Hutchison stated he
was very pleased with the management at Blue Hen Apartments and that they do a great job.
Responding to Mrs. Horsey, Ms. Finerosky stated many of staff’s comments are just general
suggestions and reminders of what needs to be done to be in compliance; however, there are one (1)
or two (2) things that they had not yet determined if they are in agreement with, noting that this will
be worked out and they are largely in support of the comments.
In response to Mrs. Horsey, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that the Committee would be advised if
there are any concerns; however, she reminded members that the role of the members is to provide
a recommendation that will go to the Planning Commission for a final plan to be presented to
Council.
Responding to Mrs. Horsey, Ms. Finerosky stated that the larger acreage for the open space was
designed to accommodate the additional units. She stated that they believe a larger area would serve
the community better than several smaller pocket parks, noting that the plan includes those as well.
In response to Mrs. Horsey, Ms. Finerosky stated that the layout and design of the office area
attached to the clubhouse matches the apartments. She noted that it is not residential and would be
used as a leasing office. Ms. Finerosky noted that part of the space may also serve as a model.
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PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY
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Mr. Hosfelt moved to recommend approval of the revised Active Recreation Area Plan for
Eden Hill Farm Traditional Neighborhood Design - Residential District, as recommended by
staff. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Horsey and unanimously carried.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Quarterly Update
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, stated that the
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) had approved the 2015 Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) Five (5) Year Consolidated Plan and staff would be moving
forward with entering into agreements with sub-recipients. Mrs. Townshend stated that focus has
been on the Restoring Central Dover Initiative and working to leverage CDBG funding sources to
promote home ownership in the downtown area.
In regard to the Mayor’s Challenge to End Veterans’ Homelessness, Mrs. Townshend advised
members that, although the report indicated that 24 veterans had been housed by June 12, 2015, three
(3) additional veterans had found housing; therefore, this was a successful effort.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Townshend stated that unrecovered funds would not roll over
but would stay with the National Council on Agricultural Life and Labor Research (NCALL).
In response to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Townshend stated that all six (6) homebuyers have been
approved.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Townshend stated that there have not been any home repair
projects this year. She indicated that some funding had carried over from the previous year;
however, it had been expended, noting that this was handled through the Milford Housing
Development Corporation (MHDC).
Draft Recreation Needs Assessment/Strategic Planning and Goal Setting (Restoring Central
Dover Strategic Plan)
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, reviewed the City
of Dover 2015 Recreation Needs Assessment report. Mrs. Townshend pointed out that the maps that
they were able to obtain from the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
(DNREC) were useful in helping to identify some of the under-served areas. Referring to the map
on Page 7 of the report, Mrs. Townshend explained that the colored areas indicate neighborhoods
that are not within 15 minutes walking distance to a public recreation facility. She noted; however,
that the map does not take into account that a lot of communities have open space which may contain
a playground or some other type of recreation. Mrs. Townshend identified the City’s anchor parks
(Schutte Park, Dover Park, and Silver Lake Park) and the walk zones around those parks. She stated
that one (1) of the criticisms that initiated the assessment was that the bulk of the investment in
recreational facilities has been in an area that has the least amount of population served in terms of
walking distance.
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PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY
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Mrs. Townshend noted that one (1) of the providers that the City does not have a very strong
working relationship with is Kent County Parks and Recreation, and this was identified as a priority
to improve; however, the City has a very strong relationship with the Capital School District and the
YMCA. Mrs. Townshend stated that the YMCA brings kids to Camp Small Wonder, which the City
runs through a grant at Delaware State University, and the City does a lot of joint programming with
the Capital School District to support their athletics and get people involved who are interested in
the City’s Parks and Recreation programs.
Mrs. Townshend stated that the report included information about how the services the City provides
are paid for, noting that 21% of the Parks and Recreation Department’s budget is supported by fees.
When including the Public Works Grounds Division, who maintains the parks and flower beds, this
percentage drops to 8%.
Mrs. Townshend advised that one (1) of the recommendations in the comments section of the survey
was to seek sponsorships, noting success in this area in regard to the Concerts on the Green. She
stated that this area could be expanded upon if other corporate sponsorships are available.
Mrs. Townshend stated that an important component of the assessment was the percentage of
feedback that came from City residents versus non-City residents. She advised members that 28%
of the people who responded did not live in the City, 20% declined to answer, and more than half
of the responses were from individuals who live in the City. Mrs. Townshend shared that there was
a lot of support for funding the City’s programs largely by fees, and grants and General Fund dollars
were also suggested. Mrs. Townshend advised that data from the State of Delaware’s state-wide
survey was also used, and 267 people who responded to that survey lived in the City of Dover. She
noted that the State’s survey was a phone survey, whereas the City had an online survey. Although
it helped to gauge what the citizens wanted, it did not indicate a strong preference for any particular
amenity, noting that the highest response for any particular amenity was 17%, and the amenity with
the biggest response was restrooms at Silver Lake and Dover Parks. Mrs. Townshend stated that
portable bathrooms are currently at those locations; however, if a patron does not utilize the facilities
after a recent cleaning, they could likely have a bad experience.
Mrs. Townshend indicated that other items of interest were paved trails, fitness stations, and lawn
trails, which was consistent with the State survey, and there was strong support for walking and
biking trails. She indicated that this was good because the State has made some significant
investments in those areas. Mrs. Townshend noted that the biggest reason people go to Dover Park
is to walk or jog; however, Dover Park does not have a path and she advised members that is
something that could be put into the capital plan using both City and State funds.
Referring to Page 12 of the report, Implementation Strategies, Mrs. Townshend stated that the first
implementation strategy was to develop a master plan for each of the three (2) anchor parks, starting
with Dover Park. She advised that the Request For Proposal (RFP) for Dover Park will address
indoor restrooms, a paved loop trail system, potentially fitness stations along the trail, a skate park,
a splash pad, and bicycle racks. Mrs. Townshend noted that everything will not happen at once;
however, the master plan will identify where each item will go and how it will be implemented. She
advised that this process has already begun at Schutte Park with a land survey. She indicated that
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there are about 14 undeveloped acres there that need to be utilized and parking is something that
needs to be considered as well. Mrs. Townshend explained that the City will be using in-house
engineering staff to review the results of the land survey to begin laying out a plan for the
undeveloped acres at Schutte Park. She noted that Silver Lake will likely be the last park to be
addressed because the survey indicated that amenities desired at that location included an indoor
restroom and a splash pad; however, infrastructure is not in place to provide those amenities at this
time and the park is heavily utilized without them.
Mrs. Townshend advised members that another amenity that surfaced as a result of the survey was
a request for a pickleball court and a dog park, and those requests will be considered. She reiterated
the importance of continuing to improve and monitor the neighborhood parks and playgrounds as
well.
Mrs. Townshend stated that one (1) of the biggest challenges is that there is not a stable funding
stream for the Parkland Reserve Fund, which funds improvements to the parks. She stated that she
is working on expanding and improving partnerships to help fund those improvements and find other
ways to increase the Parkland Reserve. Mrs. Townshend explained that one (1) of the resources used
to increase this fund is a cash-in-lieu contribution from residential developments that do not provide
recreation. She indicated that when a developer puts in amenities, they often do not know the needs
of the potential residents, which can lead to amenities that are not used and become dilapidated.
Citing some examples, Mrs. Townshend mentioned the basketball court at Village of Westover,
which has stood without backboards, hoops, and nets, etc., and the playground equipment at
Maple Glen, which houses mostly retirees. The few families that do have young children in
Maple Glen have play sets in their back yards. She indicated that these types of amenities often
become a burden to the homeowners associations and code enforcement.
Mrs. Townshend advised that one (1) recommendation was to amend the zoning ordinance to
eliminate the requirement to provide active recreation areas and instead impose a surcharge on
building permits to generate revenue toward the Parkland Reserve, along with putting in other
mechanisms, such as sponsorships.
Mrs. Townshend advised members that 67% of the responses to the survey included a request to
have City residents pay a lower fee than non-City residents.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt regarding the City of Dover’s relationship with Kent County Parks and
Recreation, Mrs. Townshend stated there is a spirit of friendly competition; however, she spoke to
Mr. Jeremy Sheppard, Director of Parks and Recreation for Kent County, about shifting gears and
working more toward collaboration, noting that Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, and
Mr. Mike Petit DeMange, Kent County Administrator, had also had discussions in an effort to work
collaboratively.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Mrs. Townshend confirmed that City recreation fees are currently the
same for residents and non-residents.
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Mr. Hutchison expressed the importance of the City Manager, Finance Director, and City staff
putting together a master plan forecasting three (3) to 25 years ahead to determine how the City will
continue to support financing the recreational needs of the City. He pointed out that the needs of the
City are going to continue to grow in all areas, including infrastructure, and stressed the importance
of developing a plan to financially support those needs, noting the recent tax increase that was
necessary to maintain the needs of the City and its residents.
Mrs. Townshend stated that various parks and amenities require different levels of maintenance, staff
time, cost, and enforcement, noting that adding indoor restrooms and splash pads requires water and
sewer usage, as well as more time and money to maintain, versus a path system which requires less
maintenance.
Mr. Anderson stated that it was important to find out what the people want and need. Referring to
the Implementation Strategies for Dover Park on Page 12 of the report, Mr. Anderson noted the
park’s playground, driving trails, softball field, tennis court, and basketball court, and stated that the
request of the community was to have a walking trail and fitness station. Responding,
Mrs. Townshend advised that those requests would not be difficult to achieve; however, some things
that need to be considered include vegetation and lighting, which are areas of concern for the safety
needs of park users. Mrs. Townshend pointed out that, although the parks are technically closed at
dusk, the reality is that people still go into the parks and lighting and other safety measures need to
be considered.
Responding to Mr. Anderson regarding the status of the plans for Dover Park, Mrs. Townshend
advised that vendors have been contacted to obtain information on portable bathrooms, reminding
members that Dover Park still has plumbing to support indoor bathrooms, but Silver Lake does not
and it is the most popular park.
In response to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Townshend stated that the survey indicated a splash pad was one
(1) of the amenities desired but was not very high on the list for any of the parks.
Mrs. Townshend advised that the survey measures how many people request an amenity but not how
strongly or how high of a priority it is, which is hard to measure. She stated that when people make
specific comments, such as those related to the skate pad, dog park, and splash pad, that gives a
stronger indication of what they want versus just answering yes or no on a survey.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Townshend stated that a lot of interest was expressed for indoor
bathrooms; however, she noted they require maintenance and it would be important for them to be
locked at night for security reasons.
In response to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Townshend advised that she had not heard any feedback
concerning a rugby field or football field at Schutte Park. She had heard feedback for a turf field at
Schutte Park; however, that is very expensive and would be difficult to lay out with the parking. She
stated that the challenge with a football field is the wear and tear it puts on specific areas of the field,
and public input from the various park users helps to determine the layout of the park and what
activities are of interest. Mrs. Townshend noted that currently the Delaware Union and the
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Delaware Diamonds girls lacrosse groups use the fields at Schutte Park, stating that it would be
useful to get some feedback from them. She indicated that she has heard that the boys lacrosse team
that currently uses the field at Brecknock Park may be interested in using the fields if some
improvements are made.
Responding to Mr. Anderson regarding feedback on current programs, Mrs. Townshend stated that
one of the complaints she has heard is that people do not seem to know about the programs currently
being offered. She said she was trying to find ways to make the public more aware of the programs
through email, facebook, and other methods.
Referring to page 2 of the City of Dover Recreation Needs Assessment, Mr. Anderson felt this was
a good summary of what the City is trying to offer. He stated that it reflects the City’s
Comprehensive Plan which calls for city-wide parks, open space plans, and individual parks.
Mr. Anderson suggested that the Committee review the Recreation Needs Assessment and provide
positive suggestions to continue to improve the recreation plan and determine what is needed and
what funding mechanisms will be necessary. He stated that the City of Dover was a prosperous and
healthy city where families can enjoy the amenities of the city with a good quality of life and access
to recreation and arts for people of all ages; however, it is important to continue to improve and look
at other areas of community development and make sure housing is revitalized.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Townshend stated that the capital budget for the Parks and
Recreation Department had $180,000 remaining for Dover Park and $66,000 for Mallard Pond.
In response to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Townshend stated that she believed there was about $300,000
remaining in the Parkland Reserve Fund. Regarding splash pads, Mrs. Townshend confirmed that,
while the splash pads themselves are not expensive, pipes and infrastructure can become very
expensive very quickly.
Responding to Mr. Anderson concerning cost examples and proposed plans for next year’s budget,
Mrs. Townshend explained that the idea, once the Recreation Needs Assessment was complete, was
to reevaluate the capital plan and base it off the Needs Assessment and master plans to develop the
park. Mrs. Townshend stated that the master plan for Schutte Park needed to be completed and that
a master plan for Dover Park would likely use some funds from the capital fund.
In response to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Townshend stated that she did not have information on the cost
of portable restrooms at the moment but would be happy to provide the information after the
meeting.
Ms. Theresa Morris, 1378 Old White Oak Road, stated that she helps with the Youth Advisory
Committee and would like to see a lot more activities for teenagers. Ms. Morris referred to the
recent shootings and drug activity, stating she felt it important to create activities geared toward the
teenage group to keep them busy and out of trouble.
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Ms. Morris stated that there seemed to be a lot of activities for younger kids; however, it appears
there is a lack of activities and organizations available for the teenaged group. She stated that she
has heard feedback expressing interest in a skate park, noting that Smyrna has one. As the capital
of the First State, she would like to see as much offered for the youth in Dover. Ms. Morris noted
that Mr. Anderson had discussed bringing back First Night for New Year’s and that she would love
to see that return. She suggested block parties allowing the kids to participate, show their talents,
and keep them involved and off of the streets.
Ms. Morris expressed her appreciation to Mr. Anderson for reviving the Youth Advisory Committee,
stating that she anticipates a lot of good things for the youth of the community.
In regard to Strategic Planning and Goal Setting, Mr. Anderson, referred members to the Executive
Summary of the Restoring Central Dover report, “Our Vision for Vitality.” He advised members
that the reason for the strategic plan, as stated by Mr. Hutchison, was to focus on three (3) things
when considering future budgets: 1) why something is being done, 2) how it can be accomplished,
and 3) what is being offered. Mr. Anderson reiterated the importance of determining these things
to ensure that what is being offered is what is needed and will be used by the people. He explained
that the report was completed using focus groups, surveys, and town meetings to find out in a
comprehensive way what people want. He stated that this was a great starting point for central
Dover and essential to its revival. Mr. Anderson stated that the plan had been very useful as a
blueprint to the City Planning and Community Development offices. He stated that the plan focuses
on recreation, economic inclusion, safety, and restoring and revitalizing neighborhoods.
Mr. Anderson called for an “at ease” to give members an opportunity to review the Restoring Central
Dover Strategic report.
Mr. Anderson suggested further future discussion on the Recreation Needs Assessment, State survey,
and Restoring Central Dover report.
Mr. Hosfelt moved to recommend continued discussion of the Recreation Needs Assessment
and Restoring Central Dover Strategic Plan at the next Parks, Recreation, and Community
Enhancement Committee meeting, seconded by Mrs. Horsey and unanimously carried.
Discussion - Community Partnerships
Mrs. Townshend advised members that the Parks and Recreation Department plans to meet with
Pastor Will Grimes to collaborate on recreation programming at the new community outreach center
for the Solid Rock Baptist Church, hoping to make that a hub of activity in the downtown area for
youth and people of all ages.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Townshend advised that she has only heard general discussion
regarding revitalizing the Police Athletic League. She stated that there had not been many
discussions regarding the Inner City Cultural League; however, she noted that once they are settled
into their new location it was her hope to discuss opportunities to work on programming there as
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ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 9
well. Mrs. Townshend explained that the Parks and Recreation Department does not get very
involved in the area of the arts; however, Ms. Margery Cyr, Director of the Dover Public Library,
was working on some collaborations related to theater.
In response to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Townshend explained that the Boys and Girls Club is currently
focused on getting their new facility established and had been working very closely with the County
on getting that up and running. She stated that, while there have not been a lot of discussions with
the Boys and Girls Club in terms of working together, once they are established and their facility is
open, it was her hope to resume discussions on working together on various programming.
Mrs. Townshend stated that staff had been working closely with the YMCA and
Ms. Mary Ellen Gray, Kent County Planning Services. Mrs. Townshend advised members that she
also sits on an informal working group to discuss plans for the former Kent Swim Club in Dover and
how it could best serve the community as a whole. She anticipates a positive outcome from those
discussions.
Mrs. Horsey moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Caldwell and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 4:56 p.m.
David L. Anderson
Chairman
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UTILITY COMMITTEE
The Utility Committee Meeting was held on July 13, 2015 at 5:01 p.m. with Chairman Hutchison
presiding. Members present were Mr. Neil, Mr. Blakeman, and Ms. Stewart. Mr. Cole was absent.
Members of Council present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Hare (arrived at 5:02 p.m.), and Mr. Slavin (arrived
at 5:36 p.m.). Mayor Christiansen was also present.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Blakeman moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously
carried.
North American Energy Services (NAES) Amended and Restated Operating Agreement
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, introduced the City’s Power Supply Attorney, Mr. Kirk Betts,
Betts & Holt, LLP, who worked on the renegotiation of the North American Energy Services
(NAES) agreement.
Mr. Betts reviewed his memorandum dated July 13, 2015 regarding Proposed Agreement for Plant
Operating Services (Attachment #1). He advised that in 1996, the City entered into a contract with
Duke Energy and its subsidiaries to operate the power plant on the City’s behalf. He stated that the
Duke contract was unique because Duke assumed all of the responsibility for everything, including
fuels, and sold energy to the City. Mr. Betts stated that in 2006, Duke was no longer interested in
that type of service and the City had to change the contract style.
Mr. Betts explained that the 2006 contact bifurcated the services. Dispatch, design, fuel purchasing,
etc. were completed by PACE Global, while NAES operated the plant, integrated, and interfaced
every day to determine what the dispatch should be. He stated that all of the plant employees,
including former City employees who went to Duke and those that stayed with NAES, remained at
the plant; however, over time NAES managed the level of employees in order to operate the plant.
Mr. Betts informed members that, under the NAES contract, NAES provides an annual budget for
the operation of the plant, which City staff negotiates prior to budgeting any staffing or operating
costs. He stated that fuel costs and services are managed by The Energy Authority (TEA), and TEA
operates as a dispatching advisor to the plant. Mr. Betts explained that the current contract was a
four (4) year contract which the City let renew annually under an evergreen provision. In order for
the contract to be terminated, 18 months notice had to be given. He advised that one (1) of the
reasons that the City had a shorter contract was because it had an escalation provision in it that went
up according to a Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) standard for professional employees in this
region. Mr. Betts stated that, on average, the cost had escalated approximately 21%, since 2006.
He noted that the belief had been that the City would probably renew, renegotiate, or rebid that
contract prior to this time.
Mr. Betts explained that, after evaluating the quality of the services and the market for companies
that do this type of work, and given the age and the institutional knowledge that NAES has on
operating the plant, he and staff agreed that there is an inherent value in trying to sole source
negotiate the contract. He stated that he, Mr. Harry Maloney, Electric Director, who is an
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UTILITY COMMITTEE MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 2
experienced power plant supervisor, and NAES worked together to develop a slightly different
contract that operates at a lower cost and has some new orientation on how the City wants the project
to be operated.
Mr. Betts informed members that the proposed agreement would be for five (5) years (2015 - 2020).
He explained that he, the City Manager, and the Controller/Treasurer agreed that five (5) years would
be a good transitional period for the City because it is toward the end of the age of this plant and also
a period of great transition for PJM. Mr. Betts stated that this proposal would allow the City to
capture and hold onto the institutional knowledge that exists, and provide some opportunity for
managing the longer term International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) labor contract.
He noted that the IBEW contract had been extended for one (1) year; however, staff had been
advised that the IBEW contract would now be finalized for a longer duration.
Mr. Betts explained that the proposed agreement provides for a fixed annual fee for management,
and the amount of this fee would decrease from the current fee. He stated that this fee would include
the management fee, home office support, which previously averaged at approximately $75,000 per
year, and operating incentives, employee bonuses, and burdens.
Mr. Betts informed members that, in the past, there was an incentive fee provision which provided
an annual bonus of several hundred thousand dollars if the plant achieved specific operational
parameters. He explained that the proposed contract includes a maximum performance reduction,
which would allow for a contract price reduction between $500,000 and $550,000 per year if they
fail to meet certain standards, such as availability and dependable capacity. Mr. Betts stated that the
City has to meet certain standards in order to get the full value out of the PJM Reliability Pricing
Model (RPM) payments, and this provision aligns the mutual interests of both parties in the
operations of the plant.
Mr. Betts reminded members that two and one-half years ago, the City decided to allow for the
retirement of Units 1 and 2. He stated that these units are 50 year old, 17 MW steam units which
are difficult to find parts for, and they are not as reliable as they need to be. Mr. Betts advised that
the decision to retire these units would change the operations of the plant and, as a result, the City
would realize a several hundred thousand dollar reduction in operating costs in the proposed
contract.
Mr. Betts informed members that, between the changes in the way the management fee is structured,
the way the incentive fee and performance penalty pieces are constructed, and with the change in
how the plant will operate, he anticipates that the City will realize an annual cost reduction in excess
of $300,000 within a year and a half and will not reach the current contract price of $6M per year
within the next five (5) years. He explained that, overall, the objectives were to save the institutional
knowledge, preserve the operation of the plant, and reincentivize the plant in order to earn money
as opposed to keep costs down. Goals would be to operate more efficiently, dispatch more
frequently, reduce the number of outage days, change the scheduled outage, and raise performance
so the plant is not offline for as long as it has been in the past, and ultimately earn more money for
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UTILITY COMMITTEE MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 3
the City by having this unit online. Mr. Betts stated that the proposed contract would provide the
City with a reduction in cost and provide the performance that the City needs to maintain a
competitive posture in the marketplace.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison, Mr. Betts stated that Units 1 and 2 would be retired on May 31, 2017.
Mr. Anderson stated that he had concerns regarding the contract, whether or not it should have been
put out for bid, the amount that the City is spending, and whether or not the City is getting the most
for its money. He questioned what the City’s five (5) year plan was and whether the City should lock
in a manager prior to deciding what to do with the City’s plants. Mr. Anderson stated that he liked
the inclusion of the six (6) month provision.
Mr. Anderson requested further explanation of the negotiated cost savings. Responding, Mr. Betts
stated that the biggest savings would be realized in the management fee costs and staff savings. He
reiterated that the fixed management fee, the amount held for performance, and bonuses that are part
of their compensation package would be lower. Additionally, he explained that there was an
expectation that there will be a change in how the plant is managed staff-wise, which would add
several hundreds of thousands of dollars in benefits. Mr. Betts noted that some of the City’s risk
associated with using back office personnel would also be mitigated by fixing that as part of the base
contract. He explained that the City would receive all of the services that are now prescribed,
without the risk of having hourly rates based upon how the City uses those services. Mr. Betts
reminded members that the proposed contract also included a maximum performance reduction. For
example, he explained that if the City is penalized through PJM for too many forced outages, NAES
would be penalized as well. Mr. Betts stated that this provision would help compensate the City in
the event that NAES fails to perform on those important criteria for availability, dependability, unit
capacity dependability, etc.
Mr. Betts stated that Mr. Anderson’s concerns regarding whether or not this agreement should have
gone out to bid were important. He explained that it would be difficult to find people in the
marketplace who have the skill sets to deal with a 40 to 50-year-old plant. Additionally, the people
who run a unit develop a sensitivity about the equipment, they know how an engine is supposed to
work, when the steam is supposed to be going through, and what it sounds like before you
synchronize, and Mr. Betts and staff believed that these skills could help negotiate the price down,
because they have mitigated some of the risk of not knowing how this plant functioned. Mr. Betts
explained that a new supplier may not want to guarantee the plant’s availability because of the
unknown factors; therefore, it was his recommendation to try to negotiate a fairer price to operate
the plant with the same entity, based on the City’s criteria, rather than going out to the marketplace
and bringing in an entity that would add to the risk premium for operating a plant like the City’s.
He believed it was wiser to stay with the same entity and the people who know how to operate the
plant rather than taking that risk at this point in the plant’s history.
Mr. Hare asked if NAES could provide an estimate of the maintenance costs for the next three (3)
or four (4) years. In response, Mr. Betts stated that NAES knows how the City’s plant functions,
noting that they have approximately six (6) steam plants of similar vintage within their system and
they have monthly manager meetings to discuss equipment. He explained that there are two (2)
types of maintenance, major maintenance and annual scheduled maintenance, and the annual
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UTILITY COMMITTEE MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 4
scheduled maintenance is estimated for five (5) years. Mr. Betts expressed his opinion that, with the
experience of TEA and Mr. Maloney, there would be more than just an annual projection of plant
costs and types of maintenance.
Mr. Betts reminded members that one (1) of the reasons the City decided to proceed with closing the
two (2) oldest units, aside from their inefficiency, was the high cost of performing the next level of
maintenance. He stated that the approximate cost was $500,000 and would have included opening
up the units, working on the turbines, and attempting to provide some life extension.
Mr. Betts stated that by looking at the five (5) year projection, the City can determine what expenses
are appropriate, given where it is in its life cycle. He expressed his opinion that NAES has very
sophisticated people and Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, has done a great job of assuring
that the City receives a budget with accurate estimates.
Mr. Betts informed members that a major part of the discussions regarding the proposed contract
focused on ensuring that the City receives accurate estimates for the budget to ensure staff does not
have to request additional funds from Council and because it affects the customer’s rates.
Mr. Hare asked whether the City could provide a six (6) month notice and get these credits cheaper
elsewhere if PJM were to stop giving the City capacity credits. Responding, Mr. Betts explained that
there are a lot of strategies that the City would want to review prior to making that decision. He
advised that some municipal clients were looking at going behind the meter, explaining that the City
can take that capacity inside and plan against peaks to achieve similar results, so that the City is not
getting hit with the PJM charges. Mr. Betts stated that, with the proposed contract, the City would
have an option to terminate the agreement; however, the City would want to thoroughly study and
line up alternatives prior to providing a six (6) month notice.
Mayor Christiansen stated his appreciation for the work Mr. Betts had done and asked what he
projected may happen over the next five (5) years, particularly with the PJM grid requirements.
Noting that this is one (1) of the City’s major sources of revenue, Mayor Christiansen also
questioned if the City should be looking at the possibility of moving out of the utility business or
looking for another deal to keep the City as a competitive player in the business.
In response to Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Betts stated that Mr. Maloney has been proactive in looking
to the future and trying to determine different alternatives. He stated that technological
advancements are changing the market. Mr. Betts thought that some of the questions members
should ask are what the future would look like in terms of how the City will use and produce energy
and how its customers will use it. He explained that the City needs to understand how customers
will use energy in the future to ensure that whatever the City does matches the market and to ensure
that the City does not end up overbuilding and overcharging for services based on year 2000 ideas
that the City is trying to implement in 2020.
Mr. Betts informed members that he had recently read an article about a municipal utility in the
Midwest that is building a 40MW battery station instead of a power plant. He explained that it takes
in energy during the day, feeds it out at the night, and deals with solar and wind factors. Mr. Betts
noted that this balances the frequency problems that PJM and all the utilities are having today
because of the variety of sources coming in.
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UTILITY COMMITTEE MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 5
Mr. Betts stated that Mr. Maloney has proposed reviewing everything comprehensively to determine
what would make sense for the future. He stated that this would include a review of fixing McKee
as a power plant, generation options, where to get the best deal on a unit, consideration of recent gas
issues on the peninsula, PJM requirements for two (2) forms of fuel, solar which is being
incentivized, renewable portfolio standards, etc. Mr. Betts noted that this was an exciting time to
be on the Utility Committee because there is so much going on, with many variables and ways to
look at how to solve customer needs.
Mr. Betts stated that there is a difference in thinking today from 20 or 30 years ago. He reminded
members that Kraft wanted to build a coal-fired plant 20 or 30 years ago and 10 years later it was
not a good idea; however, they kept it going and ultimately sold it to a third-party to operate.
Comparatively, he stated that P&G is currently considering building two (2) MW solar on some of
their properties. Mr. Betts stated that some of these decisions are driven by tax credits or the desire
to have a green energy facility. He explained that, in contrast, the City is trying to figure out how
to balance those interests and still provide the revenue that supports the City. Mr. Betts advised that
he would not encourage the City to get out of the business, if for no other reason than that the City
owns the distribution rights and can control all the electricity that goes out to the customers. He
stated that, even if the City got out of generation, it would still have a resource for revenue through
the distribution system. Mr. Betts expressed his opinion that the City has resources in place, a great
69kV loop, a good distribution system, and is in a really good spot, as an entity, to be in the utility
business.
Mr. Betts stated that he was very encouraged and excited by all of the changes in the industry, noting
that there are new ideas every day that are changing the way people use energy and the way energy
can be produced and delivered more efficiently. It was his opinion that the City is almost in a perfect
spot by having a facility that can be given up to switch to something that would allow the City to
leap ahead from where it would otherwise have been (5) years ago.
Mr. Neil questioned how long the bid process would take and what effect it would have on the City
if the proposed contract were not accepted and the City put this out to bid. Responding, Mr. Betts
estimated that it would take a minimum of six (6) to eight (8) months. He reminded members that
the City would remain under the old contract, which has an 18-month notice period; therefore, the
City would probably want to give notice right away and take the risk of completing that process in
time. Mr. Betts stated that he did not have the same confidence that he had 10 years ago when he
suggested that there were a lot of people out in the marketplace that are providing these types of
services and are willing to take the type of risks that the City would ask them to assume. He noted
that he is an advocate of RFPs; however, the current market is narrow, which creates a greater risk.
Mr. Betts reiterated that it was his recommendation to try to negotiate a sole-source deal, due to
where the City is with the cycle of this plant and the knowledge of the type of plant it is.
Mr. Hutchison reminded members that the City had been working on this for a while and the playing
field will be changing in 2017. He stated his support for Mr. Betts’ recommendation and the
proposed contract. Although he recognized members’ concerns, Mr. Hutchison expressed his
opinion that dealing with a known partner was critical.
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UTILITY COMMITTEE MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 6
Mr. Betts advised that one (1) of the challenges that the City has faced since transitioning out of
operating the plant relates to employees. He explained that, in the past, the City has negotiated a
responsible transition for those individuals to have the first opportunity for positions; however, he
was not certain how that would work in today’s market. Mr. Betts stated that there is a value to those
people and it is potentially disruptive to put this out to bid. He reminded members that over a year
ago when the City discussed whether or not to continue in the utility business or sell to Delaware
Electric Cooperative, it had an effect on the morale of the people who work in the utility part of the
City, which always affects how a system functions. Mr. Betts stated that settling this issue had
provided real value to the City. He stated that the uncertainty of the bid process has a potential
impact on the City’s capacity to operate as efficiently as it does now and also on what happens to
those employees.
Mr. Hare expressed his opinion that the City’s value is not in the plants but the network, noting that
if the City has to shut the plants down, it will still be in the business of supply through the network.
Mr. Betts stated that he had previously discussed the net benefit of the utility with Council. He
advised members that half of the cost of the NAES contract is for labor and the management fee,
while the other half is the traditional costs for operation and maintenance. He stated that there is an
approximate cost of $6M with PJM; therefore the City makes approximately $3M by having the
plant, whether or not it is working, and the City makes money because of the capacity value, as long
as it functions. Mr. Betts explained that the City needs to ensure that the plant is ready to operate,
because if the City has a forced outage at a really bad time, the City gets penalized. He reiterated
that the proposed contract is meant to ensure that the plant is always ready to operate over the next
five (5) years, with the inclusion of the maximum performance penalty. Mr. Betts stated that there
are now weekly meetings between Mr. Maloney, as the owner’s representative, and the plant
manager. He noted that there is not a separate entity operating with TEA telling them when to run,
the City is in the middle of the process now to ensure the plant is ready, able, and capable of
producing, so that the City gets the optimum value for the plant. Mr. Betts informed members that
the City is also in a good position because the City is connected to a gas line and has oil. He stated
that in the new capacity product that PJM is requiring, you have to have alternative fuel if you are
on gas. Mr. Betts explained that the City has the potential to get the optimal value in PJM for the
plant, at least until the City decides to shut it down, based on the differential between the operating
costs and what the City can get in terms of capacity payments from PJM.
Mr. Neil explained that he did not doubt that this was a good contract and that his question
pertaining to an RFP was intended to ensure that the City had looked at the alternatives and this was
the best alternative. He noted that if the City were going to do an RFP, it should have been done
eight (8) months ago, not now. Mr. Neil expressed his support for the contract, noting that it is the
alternative that serves the citizens well.
Mr. Neil moved to recommend approval of the contract, seconded by Mr. Blakeman and
unanimously carried.
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UTILITY COMMITTEE MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 7
Annual Engineering Consultant's Report on the Operation and Maintenance (O & M) of the
Electric System - Fiscal Year 2014
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, reviewed the conclusions of the Annual Engineering
Consultant’s Report on the Operation and Maintenance (O & M) of the Electric System - Fiscal Year
2014, prepared by Burns & McDonnell Engineering Company, Inc. She reminded members that the
Annual Engineering Consultant’s Report was required by the 1985 Bond Resolution for the electric
utility.
Mr. Blakeman noted that the Engineering Consultant had endorsed the fact that the electric system
has been well run and well maintained. He advised that Page 1-3 of the Report stated that
“specifically, the generation facilities have demonstrated a high level of availability despite the
dispatching of the units primarily for peak demand.” Additionally, in regard to the transmission and
distribution (T&D) system, the Report stated that “In recent years, the City has made appropriate
upgrades and improvements which the Engineering Consultant has observed while conducting the
reviews and assessments to complete the annual reports.”
Mrs. Mitchell informed members that the City’s debt calculation requirement was 1.5%. Referring
to Page 4-6 of the Report, she noted that in FY14 the City had a net loss of $2.3M. She explained
that although the City met the debt calculation, the loss was a result of the polar vortex which caused
the City to increase the transfer from the Rate Stabilization Reserve from the budgeted amount of
$4M to $7M. Mrs. Mitchell stated that the City’s sales were $2M under the estimated amount and
that created the net loss. She advised that she was in current conversation with Moody’s and they
have some concerns with the transfer because there is a clause in the City’s resolution that indicates
if the transfer will cause the City to miss the covenant, the City is to hold that transfer. Mrs. Mitchell
explained that the City has the Rate Stabilization Reserve for that purpose, noting that if the power
supply spikes, the City covers it. She stated that she had another call with Moody’s scheduled for
Tuesday, July 14, 2015 and would keep members apprised.
Mayor Christiansen asked if it would be convenient for the Chairman of the Utility Committee,
himself and, perhaps, the Council President to sit in on that call as well. In response, Mrs. Mitchell
stated that this was not typical; however, they could sit in on the call if they wished. She explained
that she simply wanted to make members aware of the discussion, noting that staff had already had
two (2) discussions with Moody’s. Mrs. Mitchell advised that she had also sent Moody’s several
pieces of information, one (1) of which was the balance in the Rate Stabilization Reserve as of
June 2013, which was 35% of revenue. She explained to Moody’s that the policy is 10% and the
City was more than well enough funded, had set aside those funds to cover volatile issues such as
this, and was following financial procedures.
Mayor Christiansen questioned how it would affect the City’s bond rating if Moody’s does not
understand the reason why the City increased the transfer. Responding, Mrs. Mitchell stated that,
based on her previous conversations with Moody’s, she did not think that they would downgrade the
City; however, rather than putting the City on a positive outlook, they may put the City on a stable
or a watch, or possibly a negative.
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UTILITY COMMITTEE MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 8
Mayor Christiansen asked if the City of Dover was the only utility that they deal with that had to take
such action because of the change in the weather. In response, Mrs. Mitchell stated that she could
not answer that question; however, she stated that Moody’s would be reviewing the credit of many
other entities at a meeting scheduled with a utility review committee, not just the City of Dover’s
credit. [City Clerk’s Office Note: Subsequent to the meeting, members were informed that Moody’s
had affirmed the Aa2 rating of the City of Dover’s electric bonds.]
Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Mrs. Mitchell stated that on a scale of one (1) to 10, the City’s
concern regarding this matter should be around three (3).
In response to Mr. Hutchison’s question regarding the additional $6M or $7M expense last winter
related to peaking time, Mrs. Mitchell explained that the City was required to run the plant and could
not because there was no oil available. In addition, she stated that the City had to purchase off the
open market, through PJM, and the price escalated because of the cold weather. As a result of these
factors, the City had to transfer an additional $3M from the reserve to the operating fund.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison, Mrs. Mitchell advised that everyone under PJM, including the City,
has the same reliability standards and must be able to run when they are called on or be penalized.
She explained that there was not a problem with the operation of the plant or the people who operate
it; the plant was unable to run when called on because there was a problem with oil deliveries across
the peninsula.
Mr. Blakeman noted that this was not the first time that the City had to take units offline because of
fuel unavailability.
Mr. Kirk Betts, Betts & Holt, LLP and the City’s Power Supply Attorney, reviewed background
information regarding some of the market forces involved in what happened during that polar vortex
period. He stated that he has other clients who require gas and they have had more interruptions in
the past two (2) years than in the past 15 years. In terms of their demand on the system, gas supplies
on Delmarva have gone down and the pipes have not been able to supply it. He advised that many
people are relying on oil during that time of year and the City should pay in advance or have a
contract to ensure they have oil deliveries scheduled. Mr. Betts noted that this is a new way for them
to exercise their market power to guarantee that they receive payment.
Additionally, Mr. Betts informed members that PJM has lifted the cap on pricing. He explained that,
previously, there was always a market price based on dispatched prices; however, during the first
polar vortex, it capped out at $1,000 and people complained that they could not get the gas or oil and
pay for it, even at $1,000 per megawatt hour (MWh). Mr. Betts stated that $1,000/MWh equated
to $1.00 per kilowatt hour (KWh), noting that the City normally pays $0.04 per KWh.
Mr. Betts advised that many companies were affected when PJM lifted the cap on pricing because
they did not have contracts that allowed them to float through the extraordinary costs. He stated that
it was done very quickly in order to get the market back in balance and many utilities could not
recover that cost. Mr. Betts explained that some companies may have had a guaranteed price of
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UTILITY COMMITTEE MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 9
$0.09 per kilowatt hour in the wholesale market and had to take a loss on the other $0.91 because
their contracts did not allow it. He stated that companies like Washington Gas Energy Services have
gone out of the business because of that year and all of the changes that happened suddenly.
Mr. Betts advised that one (1) of the things that Moody’s and others are looking at is if the City is
able to pass through and recover extraordinary costs, noting that if an entity’s rate structure allows
for that, the entity is in a better position.
Mr. Betts advised members that last year The Energy Authority (TEA) assumed that the City’s plant
was not going to dispatch and then it needed to dispatch. He stated that having Mr. Harry Maloney,
Electric Director, onsite will add insight to the plant since he can probably predict when the plant
is going to run. Mr. Betts noted that TEA’s dispatching gas, the plant being ready, and onsite
understanding regarding what to do next will really help the City in the future.
Mr. Blakeman questioned whether the cap had been reinstalled. Responding, Mr. Betts stated his
understanding that the cap was now at $1,800, which is pretty high. He expressed his excitement
about where the City is in terms of planning the next set of generation, noting that gas is one (1) of
the factors in the mix but it is not the whole answer.
Mr. Blakeman moved to recommend acceptance of the report as presented, seconded by
Mr. Neil and unanimously carried.
TEA/NAES Report (May)
The TEA/NAES Monthly Report for May 2015 was provided to members to enable them to monitor
electric sales and revenues received, which will provide a better understanding of any fluctuations
that occur and allow the opportunity to make improvements if deemed necessary.
Referring to the year-to-date summary on Page 12 of the TEA Report, Mr. Scott Koenig, City
Manager, stated that the Variance indicated that the Actual YTD was approximately $1.3M more
than the Budget YTD, noting that this was in part due to the City’s load being up slightly. He
advised that the variance had decreased fairly substantially over the last couple of months and he was
hopeful that the variance would continue to close, as he expected that the numbers for June would
be relatively strong because it was warm.
Mr. Koenig advised that the Final Cost of Service to City of Dover Ratepayers was budgeted at
$63.42 per megawatt hour (MWh) and the Actual YTD was approximately $64.02 per MWh. Noting
that there was only a slight variance, he stated that this was a good indication that things were
tracking as expected throughout the year.
Referring to the Generation Summary on Page 4 of the TEA Report, Mr. Blakeman noted that the
actual revenue had come in below budget for seven (7) out of the 11 months. He questioned if the
City would be able to recover that revenue during the last month, or if it would even out since the
actual revenue far exceeded the budgeted amount during a couple of the months. Responding,
Mr. Koenig stated it would be very close.
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UTILITY COMMITTEE MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 10
Mr. Neil moved to recommend acceptance of the TEA/NAES Report for May 2015, seconded
by Mr. Blakeman and unanimously carried.
Updates (Deferred during the meeting of June 22, 2015)
By unanimous consent, Item #4 - Updates was deferred.
Mr. Neil moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Blakeman and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 5:55 p.m.
James Hutchison, Sr.
Chairman
JLH/TM/dd
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\Committee-Minutes\2015\07-13-2015 UTILITY.wpd
Attachments
Attachment #1 - Memorandum dated July 13, 2015 from Kirk Betts Regarding Proposed Agreement for Plant
Operating Services
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ATTACHMENT #1
BETTS ~ HOLT LLP Utility Committee Meeting of 07/13/2015
COUNSELLORS AT LAW
1100 l 7"' STREET• SUITE 901 • WASHINGTON, DC 20036
TELEPHONE 202.530.3380 • FAX 202.530.3389
July 13, 2015
To: Scott Koenig, City Manager; Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer;
Harry Maloney, Electric Director
From: Kirk Howard Betts, Betts & Holt LLP
RE: Proposed Agreement for Plant Operating Services
Background
On May 4, 2006, the City of Dover entered into an Operations & Maintenance
Agreement with North American Energy Services (NAES) to maintain and operate Dover's
generation. 1 The contract had an initial four year term and it was extended four times
automatically for one year terms.
Dover's generation consists of three steam units in the McKee Run plant and one
combustion turbine at VanSant. NAES is responsible for operating and maintaining Dover's
generation, staffing and collective bargaining, managing dispatch, environmental controls and
complying with permits, guaranteeing capacity performance, maintaining records, preparing
budgets, outage plans, and reports to governmental authorities.
The current contract provides for a management fee and reimbursement for all other
costs, including staffing, relocation, insurances, training, permit fees, and advisors. All other
plant operating costs (consumables, tools, spare parts, equipment, capital improvement projects,
etc.) are paid directly by Dover. NAES management fee started at $175,000/year in 2006 and
has escalated annually to almost $212,000 in 2015.
The contract also provides an incentive bonus (which started at $140,000 and is now
approx. $173,000 for 2015-16) structure that rewards NAES and its personnel for achieving
certain goals, such as commercial availability, dependable capacity, safety, and environmental
performance. With the exception of 2014, NAES regularly achieved the full incentive bonus.
Both the management fee and the bonus escalated annually based on the Employment
Cost Index for private industry works by industry and occupational group, published by the
Bureau of Labor Statistics. The minimum was fixed at 1% per year. Since inception, escalation
has increased the fixed fee and incentive fee components by 21.1 %.
Negotiation Objectives
Discussions with Dover representatives produced the following objectives:
1
The Agreement has been amended three times, June 1, 2006, July 1, 2007, and July 1, 2008.
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Memorandum
July 13, 2015
Page 2
• Update contract to address changes in operations, law, PJM, and
decommissioning of McKee Units 1 and 2.
• Reduce the cost of NAES services.
• Address Dover financial concerns, including training, cost estimates for special
services, cost of "home office services," qualifying suppliers and bidders,
compliance with Dover procurement policies and practices.
• Address issues around performance incentives and accountability
• Incorporate market conditions affecting revenue and load growth
• Set new term and provide more flexibility for termination
Proposed Amended and Restated Operation and Maintenance Agreement
The proposed agreement addresses Dover's express objectives.
1. Lower the annual costs. The proposed agreement provides for a fixed annual
management fee, paid monthly, that will have a starting cost $43,000 lower than the current
agreement, but will be reduced further during the second and third years as staffing changes are
implemented corresponding to the scheduled decommissioning of McKee Units 1 and 2. See
Section 2.2 Management Fee. The fixed fee portion of the proposed agreement will be less than
the current agreement costs in 2015-16 when it expires in 2020. Overall, fixed fee and
reimbursable staffing expenses are estimated to reduce annual expenditures by more than
$300,000/year compared to the current agreement, in addition to O&M costs avoided by closing
Units 1 and 2. Some of these reductions start immediately, but the major reductions will be
realized in 2017. The proposed effective date is July 1, 2015.
A major change in the proposed agreement is the shift to a fixed annual fee for
management. The fee includes the management fee (which is decreased from the current fee),
and home office support (previously billed hourly as a reimbursable expense), operating
incentives, employee bonuses, and burdens (previously computed and reimbursed by Dover). In
this agreement, if NAES needs more staff or if Dover require more home office support, the risk
of higher costs reside with NAES. In other words, this agreement provides greater predictability.
However, while also putting full responsibility on NAES to manage down the size of the staff
while maintaining reliability, it also puts more of NAES' fee at risk, as described below.
2. Changed the focus from incentive bonus paid at year-end to performance based reduction
where NAES pays Dover. The prior agreement had an incentive fee that had escalated to
approximately $173,000 that would be awarded to NAES if it met certain criteria for availability,
commercial unavailability, dependable capacity, safety performance, and environmental
performance. Each performance standard had a dollar value. The proposed agreement contains
objective performance standards that if not achieved penalize NAES. Under the proposed
agreement, Dover negotiated a substantially higher amount of compensation at risk, defined as
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Memorandum
July 13, 2015
Page 3
the Maximum Performance Adjustment, if NAES does not the performance standards. See
Section 2.2 Definition of Maximum Performance Adjustment and Appendix B. The
performance adjustment puts more of NAES' fee at risk every year of the contract--over
$500,000/year compared to $172,000 now. NAES's bottom line will "feel" the implications of a
plant failure and share in the cost that would be imposed on Dover by PJM and aligns the
performance interests of both parties more closely.
3. Clarifies scope of services included. The proposed agreement clarifies staffing and home
office staff responsibilities that are included in the monthly fee. These services have been billed
on an hourly basis and averaged about $75,000/year. They will be included in the Management
Fee going forward. See Appendices A and F.
4. Procurement obligations. There is a positive tension on how costs are managed and
contracts awarded. This tension also creates conflicting objectives between lowering costs and
increasing plant operating revenue. The current draft seeks to focus on increasing revenue
through more attention to reliability to maximize the generating resource and the City's
investment in those resources. We have heard during these negotiations an appreciation for
oversight and a concern about micro-management and mixed signals. The approach that is being
recommended necessarily involves the terms of the contract and the collaboration of NAES and
the City's finance office, particularly procurement, to make it work smoothly. 2
The original and current agreement are based on having a third party operate and
maintain Dover's generation. The agreement provides for an annual operating and capital budget
and regular consultation concerning plant performance and costs. The plant operating and
maintenance budget is provided as part of the Dover budget development cycle. A substantial
part of the budget is for staffing, planned maintenance, and capital repairs and replacements (also
planned). We are recommending a contingency in the budget for unplanned work. It is not
intended to be a fund for cost overruns or discretionary projects, but it is intended to address the
reality that generating plants, particularly of this vintage, experience equipment failures.
The procurement process follows the 2012 procurement procedures, Administrative
Manual, AMP 501, latest edition, which was approved by the City. Although this appears to be a
parallel procurement system, our recommendation is to continue using these procedures since the
equipment and services are within NAES' particular expertise and it has the greatest knowledge
of suppliers for the types of equipment and services needed. Moreover, planned maintenance
and CIPs would all be reviewed as part of the budget process and also during periodic meetings
with Dover's Representative, Electric Utility Director Harry Maloney. We believe his presence
provides a day-to-day awareness of the utility, oversight, and qualified point of contact for
NAES and the City who also is in regular consultation with the City Manager and Finance
2
A recent inquiry involving cell phone service highlights the overlapping work and interests of
the parties. It may expedite matters ifthe City and NAES clarify the scope of procurements, i.e.,
which are general services and which require specific plant expertise, to determine which
services and types of procurements may be most efficiently managed by the City and by NAES.
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Memorandum
July 13, 2015
Page 4
Director. Mr. Maloney provides a level of technical capability regarding plants, PJM, and
municipal procurement that has not been present in recent years.
Another consideration is that the agreement and PJM impose substantial penalties for
failure to dispatch (availability). Consequently, both NAES and the City have an aligned interest
in assuring the generating plants are ready to be dispatched and that unplanned outages, as well
as planned outages, are as short as possible.
5. Duration of Agreement. The proposed agreement is for five years (2015-2020). Notice
for termination or renewal has been shorted to six months for Dover, and twelve months if
requested by NAES. The agreement expires in 2020.
6. Updated Agreement. The proposed agreement deletes all references to the transition
period when NAES assumed responsibility for plant operations. It incorporates the changes
anticipated by the scheduled withdrawal of McKee Units I and 2 from service in 2017. All the
appendices have been updated.
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LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee meeting was held on July 13, 2015, at
6:03 p.m. with Chairman Hare presiding. Members present were Mr. Sudler (arrived at 6:08 p.m.),
Ms. Maucher, and Mr. Shevock. Mr. Cole was absent. Members of Council present were
Mr. Anderson, Mr. Neil (arrived at 7:02 p.m.), Mr. Lewis (arrived at 6:55 p.m.), Mr. Hosfelt,
Mr. Hutchison, and Mr. Slavin. Mayor Christiansen was also present.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Shevock moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Ms. Maucher and unanimously
carried.
Fiscal Year 2014/15 Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Program - Police Vehicle
Computer/Video Technology Upgrades & SORT Firearms
Major Marvin Mailey, Deputy Chief of Police, advised members that the Dover Police Department
recently submitted a grant application through the Office of Justice Programs (OJP) for the
2015 Justice Assistance Grant (JAG). He stated that the Dover Police Department intends to
upgrade/replace nine (9) additional vehicle computer/video systems. Grant funding will be
combined with $54,000 budgeted for the mobile data computer (MDC) portion of the system for this
purchase. Major Mailey stated that these systems will be purchased for the nine (9) new vehicles
that will be coming on line during FY16. The vendor for the purchase would be COBAN and was
approved as a sole vendor last year when grant funds were used for the same purpose. This brand
of equipment is currently being used by the State Police and other agencies throughout the state.
Major Mailey indicated that a portion of the funds would also be used to replace three (3) shotguns
and night scopes for the department’s Special Operations Response Team (SORT), noting that the
weapons are more than 20 years old. This purchase would be awarded to a state contract vendor that
is an authorized gun dealer.
Major Mailey stated that this grant request is for $48,891 from the state to assist with the purchase
of these items. He informed members that the grant had been applied for; however, to date, it had
not been approved. Major Mailey indicated that the police department was quite certain that the
grant would be approved, since it is an annual application.
Staff recommended approval of the grant project, as requested.
Ms. Maucher moved to recommend approval of the grant project, as requested. The motion
was seconded by Mr. Shevock and unanimously carried.
Disposal of Excess Property - Silver Lake Drive (East Lake Gardens)
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, informed members that the City Manager’s Office had received
a request to abandon a certain portion of right-of-way adjacent to property owned by Bruce and
Della Parham at 107 Silver Lake Drive in the East Lake Gardens Subdivision. He stated that
Mr. and Mrs. Parham wished to make various improvements to their property and would like to take
ownership of an irregular piece of right-of-way adjacent to it.
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LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION
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Mr. Koenig reviewed a property survey for 107 Silver Lake Drive and explained that Mr. Parham’s
driveway is located off of the odd shaped right-of-way on Silver Lake Drive and Mr. Parham mows
approximately 40 feet of grass before he gets to the actual edge of the roadway. Mr. Koenig stated
that Mr. Parham contacted him to determine the City’s interest in disposing of this excess
right-of-way because he is desirous of expanding his house and adding on a garage.
Mr. Koenig reviewed the real property tax map for the subdivision outlining the varying widths of
the rights-of-way for Silver Lake Drive, noting that the right-of-way adjacent to
107 Silver Lake Drive is 85 feet wide; whereas, other rights-of-way in the subdivision are only
approximately 50 feet wide. Mr. Koenig informed members that approximately 39 feet of the 85
foot right-of-way is unimproved. He stated that Mr. and Mrs. Parham are currently maintaining this
area adjacent to their property and the City of Dover has no plans to further improve or enhance this
right-of-way. Mr. Koenig explained that the City may have previously desired to put in an additional
boat ramp in this area; however, during his employment with the City, it has never been pursued, nor
had there been any indication that the City would pursue adding a boat ramp or any type of parking
in this area. He stated that Mr. Parham’s request is essentially that the City allow him to hire a
surveyor and create a deed to transfer this excess right-of-way to his property. Mr. Koenig explained
that once this parcel is transferred, it would become part of Mr. Parham’s lot and part of the taxable
real property in the City.
Mr. Koenig stated that the excess right-of-way is not large enough to create a buildable lot in this
subdivision; therefore, it was his recommendation that the excess property be conveyed to the
abutting property owner in accordance with Exception C of the Procedures for Sale and Disposition
of Real Property. He advised that all costs to survey the land and prepare a deed for the transfer of
the area shall be the sole responsibility of Mr. and Mrs. Parham, if they wish to proceed, and that
staff would review all of the documentation prior to signature.
Staff recommended the following: 1) determine that the property is excess property; and 2) authorize
the City Manager to convey the excess property in accordance with Exception C of the Procedures
for Sale and Disposition of Real Property.
Referring to the excess property to be conveyed to Mr. Parham, Mr. Shevock questioned the amount
of money that this would add to the tax roll. Responding, Mr. Koenig explained that the amount was
difficult to distinguish as an unbuildable lot by itself, noting that it would essentially be added to the
land value of Mr. Parham’s parcel and the assessor would appropriately value it.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mr. Koenig explained that if Mr. Parham were to build a garage, this would
add another assessment.
Responding to Mr. Hare, Mr. Koenig stated that he could not determine that the City had any use for
this property; therefore, it is excess.
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LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION
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In response to Mr. Anderson and referring to the real property tax map for the subdivision,
Mr. Koenig explained that Mr. Parham’s property was labeled as parcel 06 and is located
immediately adjacent to Silver Lake Drive, beginning where the right-of-way increases to 85 feet and
running all the way to the lake.
Mr. Anderson questioned whether this property was near Sunset Drive, noting that residential
complaints were previously received because people did not have access to get out of the driveway.
Responding, Mr. Koenig referred to the real property tax map for the subdivision, explaining his
understanding that Garden Lane used to extend further to the right of the word Garden as depicted
on the map. He stated that the right-of-way was abandoned to a property owner in 1985 and became
part of the subject property. Mr. Koenig indicated that this situation was similar but not quite the
same. Referring to the complaints, he stated that staff had reviewed the surveys of at least one (1)
of the property owners, as well as the Council minutes where the right-of-way was abandoned.
Mr. Koenig stated that, based on his non-legal review, it appeared that the property owner had done
things correctly in accordance with what he was granted by the City.
In response to Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Koenig advised that, to his knowledge, there were no utilities
in this right-of-way and that the survey of the area would determine the existence of any utilities.
Mr. Koenig explained that there was an overhead pole line on the east side of the property where the
right-of-way becomes 85 feet, which carries electric, telephone, and cable. He stated his
understanding that the water and sewer lines were in Silver Lake Drive. Mr. Koenig informed
members that the City would maintain a utility easement over any utilities indicated by the survey.
Regarding the access issue referred to by Mr. Anderson, Mayor Christiansen stated that there is a fire
hydrant that is located on private property due to the City conveying the property. Mr. Koenig stated
that the fire hydrant in this area would most likely be abandoned or moved in the future.
Mr. Hutchison questioned whether the City had canvassed the neighborhood to determine what the
feelings were regarding this matter. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that the neighborhood had not
been canvassed and letters were not sent to the neighborhood because this situation was different
than when the City abandons the full right-of-way. He stated that if members would like that to be
done, staff could do it just to make sure there are no objections.
Mr. Shevock moved to recommend, provided local property owners are surveyed and there
are no problems, that a certain portion of right-of-way adjacent to property located at
107 Silver Lake Drive in the East Lake Gardens Subdivision, owned by Bruce and
Della Parham, be determined to be excess property, and that the City Manager be authorized
to convey the excess property in accordance with Exception C of the Procedures for Sale and
Disposition of Real Property, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by
Ms. Maucher and unanimously carried.
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Timeline for Review of Fiscal Year 2016/17 Budget (Deferred during the meeting of
June 22, 2015)
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, reviewed the FY16 Budget Calendar (Attachment #1). He
explained that advancing the timeline would create challenges regarding revenue projection.
Mr. Koenig informed members that City Council recently adopted the FY16 Budget which included
the expected revenue projections, and the State did maintain the expected levels; however, it
remained an unknown factor until the end of June. He stated that passing a budget in April would
create uncertainty, noting that it would be difficult to provide accurate numbers and predict what
would happen at the end of the State’s session. Mr. Koenig indicated that there are ways for staff
to provide additional information as the budget year progresses to try to fine tune expectations.
Mr. Koenig reminded members that staff had kept spending and costs down in the 20 and 30 series
of the operating budget. He stated that staff had done a fair job of maintaining the capital plan
during the last few years, noting that although staff had to adjust project budgets occasionally, the
actual total funding stream was consistent. Mr. Koenig advised that staff expected to keep that trend
going forward, explaining that large increases in the FY16 budget were the result of additional
personnel and increased healthcare costs.
Mr. Koenig stated that if Council wanted to accelerate the budget schedule, he would comply;
however, he reiterated that it would be more difficult for staff.
Mr. Shevock questioned if the City received funding other than municipal street aid from the State
of Delaware. Responding, Mr. Koenig advised that, for FY16, the City received municipal street aid
based on a formula; payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT), which remained fairly consistent; and realty
transfer tax. He explained that when State budgets are very tight, PILOT is often an item that they
think about adjusting. Mr. Koenig informed members that after Council completed their budget
hearings for the FY16 budget, the State began discussing the possibility of adjusting the local share
of the realty transfer tax. He stated that the vote taken by the State would have affected the FY17
budget; however, it highlighted the potential impact on local governments of the State voting very
late in the budget year. Mr. Koenig indicated that any type of legislation being considered by various
committees or legislators could potentially impact the City, especially if it affects property
assessment, licensing, or any type of additional tax that the City may want to incorporate.
Mayor Christiansen stated that he had spent a few days at Legislative Hall during the last session and
expressed his opinion that it would not hurt the City to have a preliminary budget that reflects the
possible shortfalls that the State of Delaware is going to have. It was his feeling that staff should
develop the budget ahead of time, not taking into consideration Community Transportation
Funds (CTF) or transfer tax monies. Mayor Christiansen advised that the City may see an increase
in PILOT from the State, since the City’s delegation was asked to request the appropriate amount
of PILOT. However, he noted that transfer tax is not sacred, healthcare costs continue to increase,
and municipal street aid may disappear altogether. Mayor Christiansen suggested providing Council
with a preliminary draft budget by the middle of March to give members a rough idea of the City’s
future and the revenues that will be available. It was his feeling that although this may place
additional stress on staff, it would certainly relieve Council of surprises.
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Mr. Hare stated that his primary concern was expenses, not revenues. He suggested that staff prepare
a preliminary budget by the end of March using FY16 revenues and projected increases in expenses.
He expressed his opinion that Council needed more than three (3) weeks to review and address
expenses.
Mr. Shevock noted that the City may not receive funding from the State next year; therefore, he
suggested that staff prepare a preliminary budget excluding State funding.
Mr. Anderson reminded members that in previous years, Council held their first budget workshop
around February to discuss the status of the economy and City revenues and expenses. He stated that
he would like to see this type of workshop resumed. Mr. Anderson expressed his opinion that
Council did not need to pass a budget in March or April; however, Council could hold a workshop
in February or March to set priorities, and staff could hold budget workshops beginning in April.
It was his feeling that the workshops did not have to be held all at once; instead, he would prefer
some in April and May, with the Council mark-up to conclude in late May.
Mayor Christiansen noted that having a preliminary budget in March would also allow members of
Council, staff, and the public an opportunity to present an alternative budget.
Mr. Hare informed members that the PILOT the City receives from the State of Delaware had been
addressed with the City’s legislators. He explained that the City currently has approximately $300M
worth of assessed State property; however, the City only received $270,000 in PILOT.
Comparatively, Mr. Hare stated that the City of Wilmington has $188M worth of State property and
they receive $2.7M in PILOT. Responding, Mayor Christiansen advised that a resolution had been
submitted that would change this but he was not certain how far it would go.
Mr. Koenig reiterated that a lot of work goes into the budget, but explained that if members request
a preliminary budget for all funds earlier, staff would meet the schedule. He stated that his only
caveat was that the revenue numbers would be less solid as they moved further away from the end
of the June.
Mr. Hare stated that he was really only concerned with the projected expenses and the preliminary
budget could include the FY16 revenues.
Mr. Sudler moved to recommend that staff provide a preliminary FY17 budget between March 15
and March 31, 2016, to review expenses. The motion was seconded by Ms. Maucher.
Noting that the City of Dover relies on funds from the State of Delaware, Mr. Slavin questioned
whether the City had ever examined the possibility of changing the fiscal year to align with the
federal government, which begins October 1st. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that he would need
to consult with Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, to determine if the fiscal year was related
to an accounting standard.
Mayor Christiansen advised that the City’s fiscal year used to be January through December.
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Mr. Slavin stated that he was unaware of what might be involved in making the first adjustment;
however, he believed it would require more than one (1) discussion by the Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee, noting that he was not requesting a response at this time.
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, stated that changing the City’s fiscal year would require
research. She advised that most municipalities and the State of Delaware begin on July 1st; however,
the federal government begins its fiscal year on October 1st and some municipalities may begin then
as well. Mrs. Mitchell stated that another possibility would be to begin the fiscal year on January 1st,
noting that the City of Newark does this.
Referring to Mr. Koenig’s comment, Mr. Slavin stated that a two (2) year budget cycle may also
have merit and suggested that the committee come back with pros and cons regarding these
suggestions, including what confusion may be caused by having a different fiscal year than the State.
Mr. Hare stated that he liked the idea of beginning the City’s fiscal year on October 1st, since all of
the State monies would be in by then.
Mr. Slavin noted that the City does not receive a significant amount of funding from the federal
government. Responding, Mrs. Mitchell advised that it is confusing that the federal fiscal year is
different than the City’s when dealing with grants and overlapping years.
Mr. Shevock noted that the City’s tax bills go out on July 1st each year and are part of that fiscal year
budget. He questioned how the tax year would be affected by a change in the fiscal year. In
response, Mrs. Mitchell stated that everything, including taxes, would have to be changed to coincide
with the new fiscal year. Mr. Slavin suggested that the City could have a 15-month tax year,
followed by a 9-month tax year in order to implement the change.
The motion to recommend that staff provide a preliminary FY17 budget between March 15
and March 31, 2016, to review expenses, was unanimously carried.
Proposed Amendments to the City of Dover Code of Ordinances - Chapter 2 - Administration,
Article IV - Officers and Employees, Division 4 - Controller/Treasurer and Division 5 - City
Clerk; Chapter 54 - Health and Sanitation, Article I - In General, Section 54-1 - Health
inspector Generally; Chapter 82 - Planning, Section 82-2 - City Planner; and Chapter 102 -
Taxation, Article I - In General, Section 102-3 - Administrative reporting
Mrs. Traci McDowell, City Clerk, informed members that during the Regular Council meeting of
March 23, 2015, City Council adopted a motion “to maintain a full time mayor and that all
departments, excluding the City Clerk's Office and the Finance Department, will report to the City
Manager who is appointed by and will report to City Council.”
Mrs. McDowell reviewed proposed ordinance amendments which would change the selection and/or
reporting of the City Planner and the City Assessor to the City Manager. She advised that the
Economic Development Office is not referenced in either the City of Dover Charter or the Dover
Code of Ordinances, and City Council's motion of March 23, 2015 effectively moved the Economic
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Development Office from the Mayor to the City Manager. Mrs. McDowell stated that Charter
amendments would be necessary to complete the transfer of the City Assessor and the Police
Department to the City Manager. She informed members that the proposed amendments also
remove the requirement for the annual reappointment of these positions.
Staff recommended directing the City Clerk to prepare the necessary ordinance amendments for
presentation to City Council/First Reading.
Mr. Hare questioned whether members would want to leave the City Assessor as a Council
appointee. Responding, Mrs. McDowell stated that would be a discussion for the next agenda item,
noting that the proposed Charter amendments were suggestions based on Council’s previous motion
and comments.
Mayor Christiansen informed members that on March 9, 2015, City Council made a decision
regarding the direction of the City, which gave the Mayor some responsibility; however, 14 days
later, Council changed their mind. He questioned if any members knew or had researched why the
City Clerk, Assessor, Planner, or Controller/Treasurer were put under the direction of City Council.
Mayor Christiansen expressed his opinion that is was imperative that these departments remain under
the control of City Council. While he stated that he did not want to appear self-serving,
Mayor Christiansen expressed concern that the public had repeatedly told Council, in different ways
and by different actions, that they want a strong mayor who works in consort with the
Chief Operating Officer of the City, and for public safety to remain under the control of the Mayor.
He stated that, through various elections, the public had reaffirmed that they want a strong Mayor
who has the responsibilities of at least public safety and economic development. Mayor Christiansen
reminded members that during the last municipal election, the two (2) top mayoral candidates
debated the fact that the City needed a strong Mayor and a number of council members who did not
believe in that are gone. He expressed his opinion that members should take a second look at the
actions of March 23, 2015, give the Mayor some responsibility and allow him/her to work in consort
with the City Manager on a daily basis, since the Mayor is the elected official who is present on a
daily basis.
Mayor Christiansen informed members that the City Clerk, Assessor, Planner, and
Controller/Treasurer were put under the direction of City Council because, at the time, the
City Manager told members of Council that unless they came back with four (4) other Council
members, he did not have to talk to them. Mayor Christiansen cautioned members not to give away
their responsibility, noting that they could take his away, but to take away Council’s responsibility
would be a disservice to the public who had reaffirmed the direction they wished the City to take.
He stated that his comments were no reflection on the current City Manager, explaining that the
current City Manager and Assistant City Manager did a terrific job. Mayor Christiansen suggested
that members take a long, hard look at the proposed ordinances and changes, rather than having one
(1) committee meeting to discuss this matter.
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Responding to Mr. Hutchison, Mayor Christiansen stated that he would not have a problem with the
City Manager being the Chief Operating Officer of the City who reports to the Mayor and Council.
Mr. Hutchison stated that was the intent of this change. He explained that the City Manager is
chosen based on education, knowledge, and skill sets that enable him/her to run a city and have
responsibility for the budget, along with the City’s Controller/Treasurer. Mr. Hutchison reminded
members that he had served the City of Dover as the Police Chief, Mayor, and a member of Council
and expressed great concerns regarding the day-to-day operations and loss of control compared to
what the City used to have. He stated that giving the City Manager the authority to be the
Chief Operating Officer does not mean that he would run the Police Department; rather, the
City Manager would be responsible for the operations and the finances, and would report to the
Mayor or Council. Mr. Hutchison noted that the City Manager has the expertise, while elected
officials are here to listen and be guided by the information provided. He stated that the proposal
could be fine-tuned, and noted the Mayor would still be the point person and serve on top with the
Council. Mr. Hutchison explained that the City was very complex, including the overall operation,
various departments, personnel issues, labor contract negotiations, etc. He reminded members that,
most importantly, under the current structure, the Police Department does not report to the
City Manager and has nothing to do with the City Manager from a financial point of view. As an
example, he reminded members that the Police Department requested ten (10) additional police
officers in the middle of FY15, noting that you cannot run a city that way and no business plan would
justify that type of change.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison, Mayor Christiansen stated that the matter with the Police Department
was something that should not have happened; however, he stated that the City knew that the need
was there when Councilman Hosfelt was Chief of Police but the problem was deferred.
Mayor Christiansen expressed his opinion that no one, including himself, who could get elected to
serve as Mayor would ever want to interfere with the daily operations of the City; however, the
Chief Executive Officer should either work in consort with or report to the Mayor. He reiterated that
it was imperative to maintain checks and balances through Council retaining responsibility over the
City Clerk, Assessor, Planner, and Controller/Treasurer; otherwise, the Mayor and Council would
become non-entities in the government, and the citizens did not elect the Mayor and Council to be
non-entities. Mayor Christiansen informed members that the City’s Charter was adopted in 1929
when people did not trust politicians; however, he stated that the Mayor and members of Council
were not politicians but public servants, and the City’s hybrid form of government allows the public
to get the most out of their money.
Mr. Hutchison noted that it was important for the citizens of Dover to understand that the
City Manager works at the pleasure of the Mayor and Council. He stated that the City Manager and
other department heads do not have contracts; they perform their jobs on a daily basis and it is
Council’s job to ensure that the City provides the best service for its citizens. Mr. Hutchison
explained that the City needed to make some modifications within the structure in order to make the
City Manager a chief operating person with a greater authority to bring together all of the
departments within the City, including the Police Department, to present and deal with issues and
Página 141
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 9
accomplish the job that is asked by Council and the City’s citizens. He requested that members
consider these issues, noting that he believes that the City can become better and more efficient by
putting better controls in place.
Mr. Sudler informed members that he had previously voiced his opinion in his proposal of Option A
(a full-time Mayor's position, with consideration of changing the City's current form of government
to a Mayor/Council form of government, where the City Manager and Chief of Police would be
appointed by the mayor and confirmed by City Council, and that any positions which currently report
to Council that are moved to report to the Mayor would only be removed for cause and with Council
approval.) He stated his belief that the City is growing to the point where a strong mayor form of
government is necessary. Mr. Sudler advised that this type of strong mayor/council form of
government would allow Council to focus strictly on legislative issues and ordinances. It was his
opinion that a city manager should be the chief administrative assistant, working with the Mayor and
under his supervision, and they should work together to come up with departmental goals and ensure
that those goals are met. He stated that this would also provide the criteria for a job description for
the Mayor, which needs to be developed.
Mr. Sudler stated that he strongly believes that the City needs a strong mayor form of government,
noting his belief that it could work. He agreed with Mayor Christiansen and Mr. Hutchison that it
needs to be fine-tuned and requested that members work together on this matter. Mr. Sudler
informed members that the people had spoken, noting that during previous Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee meetings members of the public expressed that they wanted the Mayor
to be the focal point. It was his thought that a lot more could be accomplished if the City were to
allow the Mayor to have the City Manager under his supervision, explaining that the Mayor would
be able to address, and help the City Manager address, issues that arise on a daily basis, even
departmental issues, since he is here on a daily basis and members of Council are not.
Mr. Slavin stated that he has worked in the public sector for approximately 25 years and that
reorganizations can certainly have value; however, especially in the public sector, they tend to be
messy, confusing and often expensive. He stated that reorganizations are expensive in terms of
actual dollars as well as in the trust that members build with the voters and taxpayers who support
the positions. Mr. Slavin also stated that reorganization does not always work, noting that there is
no guarantee that the new thing that members try will be successful.
Mr. Slavin advised that Council had never really achieved consensus regarding this issue. While he
did not want to denigrate this matter, he expressed his opinion that this matter has been a distraction.
Mr. Slavin stated that the new members of Council had inherited a suggestion on this issue, not a
mandate. He explained that this issue is open for debate and decision by the current Council;
however, it was his opinion that Council has a lot of bigger issues to get to. He stated that he did
not desire further discussions regarding this matter and would prefer, with five (5) new council
members, that Council leave things the way they are and focus their time, energy and efforts on
running things efficiently and, more importantly, effectively for the City.
Página 142
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 10
Mr. Anderson stated that this was a complicated situation and questioned whether leaving things the
way they are would require a vote at this time, due to Council’s motion of March 23, 2015. He
expressed his opinion that the City did not need to rush into a decision. Mr. Anderson stated that
this is a definite concern to him and, if he were to make a choice today, he would probably agree
with Mr. Sudler.
Mr. Hare agreed that this issue had been on the table for a long time. He stated that he did not care
what decision Council made on this matter; however, he urged members to make a decision.
Mr. Hare reminded members that the City currently has a City Manager and an Assistant City
Manager that are only responsible for half of the City, explaining that it is impossible to hold the
City Manager accountable for the City’s budget, which is his responsibility, since he is not
responsible for all of the departments. Mr. Hare expressed his opinion that members give the
City Manager responsibility for the budget and everything that happens in the City, in order to hold
him accountable if there is a problem. Additionally, he noted that the City Manager is currently
unable to make recommendations in regard to matters that are not his responsibility, regardless of
whether they are good recommendations. It was Mr. Hare’s thought that one (1) person should be
responsible for the entire City so that Council can hold that person accountable. Referring to
Mr. Hutchison’s comment, Mr. Hare stated that the Mayor could be the chief of the City and be
responsible for managing the Police Department, but not the financial side of it.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mayor Christiansen agreed that having one (1) budget was an important
detail that may be lacking. He did not believe the City should have separate budgets for the City and
the Police Department.
Mr. Hare reiterated that the City Manager is not responsible for the Police Department, economic
development, or any of the other responsibilities that fall under the Mayor, and if the Mayor remains
the chief executive, he could also deal with the Police Department, except for the financial part of
it.
Mr. Hare suggested that this matter should be discussed during a separate meeting, in order for
members to make a final decision.
Mr. Hosfelt stated that, unless something had changed drastically in the past one (1) and one-half
years, as the Chief of Police he always worked directly with Mr. Koenig and Mrs. Mitchell in
developing the budget. He explained that he knew that what he did in regard to the budget had to
go through the City Manager’s Office and Finance Department, and the Police Department did not
operate independently from the rest of the City. Mr. Hosfelt noted that the Police Department was
always deeply involved in the budget process, probably because it is the largest department. He did
not think it was fair to say that the Police Department had a separate budget or were separate from
the rest of the City because he did not believe that was ever the case. Mr. Hosfelt stated that the
Police Department was always included as part of the package deal.
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LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 11
Referring to the discussions pertaining to a strong mayor, Mr. Hutchison reminded members that the
Mayor was previously a member of Council, presided over Council meetings, and had a vote but no
veto power. He stated that the Mayor was a member of the team then; however, now the Mayor has
a voice but no vote. Mr. Hutchison suggested that if members want the Mayor to be in charge, then
he should earn his/her income by presiding over the meetings. He informed members that, currently,
the Mayor does not have to attend any committee or Council meetings.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison’s comments, Mayor Christiansen noted that the Mayor is an ex-officio
member of all of the committees and it is his responsibility to attend all of the meetings.
Mr. Hutchison indicated that when he served as Mayor he attended all of the meetings as well. He
reiterated that years ago, the Mayor was really in charge and the responsibilities had been diluted
over time. Mr. Hutchison stated that, as members review the issues and try to resolve the problems,
if they choose to have a strong mayor, he would prefer to see the Mayor actively involved with the
City every day.
Mr. Hutchison questioned if Mayor Christiansen thought that presiding over Council would make
him a greater part of the City. In response, Mayor Christiansen expressed his opinion that it would
not make him a greater part of the City because Council should be the legislative body of the City
and not administrative.
Mr. Hare suggested that members continue this discussion at a separate meeting. He also indicated
that the City could have the Mayor as the chief executive officer with no control over finances.
Mayor Christiansen suggested making the Mayor part of the budget process in order to hold him
accountable, along with the City Manager. Responding, Mr. Hare reminded members that the
City Manager would be reporting to members of Council.
Mr. Sudler expressed his opinion that the Mayor should have a vote since he represents the mass of
the people in the City. He thought that the Mayor’s vote is valid and that the Mayor should
participate in the process since he/she is an elected voice for the people. Mr. Sudler stated that he
was uncertain how it would work but thought that the Mayor should play a more significant role.
He informed members that he had researched this topic and found that in a strong mayor form of
government, the mayor can have veto power and a vote.
Mr. Hare moved to defer this matter as well as Item #5 - Proposed Amendments to the City of Dover
Charter, and schedule a special meeting, without a time limit, to allow for further discussion. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Shevock.
Mr. Sudler suggested allowing for more input from the community, to provide the new members a
new perspective. Responding, Mr. Hare indicated that the community could attend the meeting and
share their comments during the open forum. He stated that he would also like to begin having
quarterly town meetings again.
Página 144
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE MEETING OF JULY 13, 2015 PAGE 12
Mr. Hosfelt expressed his opinion that it is the responsibility of each member of Council to talk to
their constituents to find out what they want, noting that they were elected to represent their district.
Mr. Hare stated that members could speak directly to their constituents and the public could also
attend the meeting to speak.
Mr. Sudler suggested that members could have a survey orchestrated for each member of Council
to provide to their constituents during their individual district meeting. He noted that this would
provide some type of tangible scale and members could report the data, since any member of Council
could misrepresent their constituency.
Mayor Christiansen reminded members that the Mayor had the responsibility to hold quarterly town
meeting and stated that he would like to schedule a quarterly town meeting to discuss the issues and
provide an opportunity for people to attend and give members their input.
Mr. Hare indicated that the Mayor should proceed with scheduling the quarterly town meeting.
The motion to defer this matter, as well as Item #5 - Proposed Amendments to the City of
Dover Charter, and schedule a special meeting, without a time limit, to allow for further
discussion was unanimously carried.
Proposed Amendments to the City of Dover Charter
This item was deferred during consideration of the previous item.
By unanimous consent, the meeting adjourned at 7:04 p.m.
William F. Hare
Chairman
WFH/TM/dd
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\Committee-Minutes\2015\07-13-2015 LF&A - CORRECTED FY2016.wpd
Attachments
Attachment #1 - FY16 Budget Calendar
Página 145
ATTACHMENT #1
LF&A Meeting of 07/13/2015
FISCAL 2015-2016
BUDGET CALENDAR*
10/17/2014 Budget Memo & Instructions to be distributed
10/20/2014- 2/13/2015 Departments' budget preparation; All inclusive of CIP, revenues & expenses
11/03/2014 - Personnel budget changes, including reclassifications are reviewed by the City Manager
12/12/2014 & Human Resources Director. Meetings held with Department Heads to discuss.
12/30/2014 Personnel budget file and instructions distributed
~:f5/W15 1/20/15 CIP Budget completed and entered into financial systems
1/20/2015 Completed personnel budget files due back to City Manager's Office
1/20/2015 CIP support documentation submitted to City Manager's Office
1/~Q/i!Q1§ 2/13/15 Entry lockout end of day; All budget !terns entered into financial systems
i!/i!/i!Q15 2/13/2015 Draft Budget summaries prepared by City Manager's Office
2/19/2015 - 2/20/2015 Draft Budget summaries and historical trend reviews by City Manager & Controller
2/23/2015- 3/20/2015 Draft Budget Review meetings held with Department Heads
3/23/2015- 3/31/2015 Revised Draft Budget and CIP prepared; Onranltat iona l Charts due to Citv Mananer
Week of 4/6/15 Council workshop to review Draft Budget and Financial Forecast
4/13/2015 - 5/1/2015 Preparation of Draft Budget and Financial Forecast
5/11/2015 Final draft budget and CD to Council
5/18/2015 - 5/29/2015 Budget review meetings as needed (members of LF&A Committee invited)
6/8/2015 Electric public hearing; first reading of draft budget
6/22/2015 Second reading of draft budget
7/1/2015 Fiscal Year 2015-2016 budget goes into effect
"' All dates are tentative and subject to change.
Página 146
ACTION FORM
PROCEEDING: Utility Committee and City Council
DEPARTMENT OF ORIGIN: Electric DATE SUBMITTED: 7/15/2015
PREPARED BY: Scott D. Koenig, P.E., Donna Mitchell, Kirk Betts and Harry Maloney
SUBJECT: Contract Award - North American Energy Services (NAES) Amended and Restated Operating
Agreement
REFERENCE: N/A
RELATED PROJECT: N/A
REVIEWED BY: Scott D. Koenig, P.E, City Manager and Donna Mitchell, CPA, Controller
EXHIBITS: Exhibit A – Letter dated July 15, 2015 from Mr. Kirk Betts; Exhibit B – Amended and Restated
Operation and Maintenance Agreement dated July 1, 2015
EXPENDITURE REQUIRED: $ 797,304.00 AMOUNT BUDGETED: $ 859,200.00
This expenditure represents the First Year of the agreement retroactive to July 1, 2015.
FUNDING SOURCE (Dept./Page in CIP & Budget): Electric page 317
TIMETABLE: Utility Committee was briefed on July 13, 2015 and staff is requesting City Council approval
July 27, 2015 with retroactivity back to July 1, 2015.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Authorize the City Manager to execute the Amended and Restated Operation
and Maintenance Agreement dated July 1, 2015 between the City of Dover and North American Energy
Services (NAES).
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The City’s power supply attorney, Mr. Kirk Betts, has been negotiating an agreement with North American
Energy Services (NAES) on behalf of the City of Dover. Exhibit A highlights the parameters of the proposed
agreement. Exhibit B represents the amended and restated operation and maintenance agreement between the
City of Dover and North American Energy Services (NAES). The proposed contract term is July 1, 2015
through June 30, 2020. Mr. Betts will be in attendance at both the Utility Committee meeting as well as the
City Council meeting on Monday, July 27, 2015 to discuss the proposed agreement and answer any questions
that may arise.
Página 147
Exhibit A
COUNSELLORS AT LAW
1100 17th STREET ● SUITE 901 ● WASHINGTON, DC 20036
TELEPHONE 202.530.3380 ● FAX 202.530.3389
July 15, 2015
To: Scott Koenig, City Manager; Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer;
Harry Maloney, Electric Director
From: Kirk Howard Betts, Betts & Holt LLP
RE: Proposed Agreement for Plant Operating Services
Background
On May 4, 2006, the City of Dover entered into an Operations & Maintenance
Agreement with North American Energy Services (NAES) to maintain and operate Dover’s
generation.1 The contract had an initial four year term and it was extended four times
automatically for one year terms.
Dover’s generation consists of three steam units in the McKee Run plant and one
combustion turbine at VanSant. NAES is responsible for operating and maintaining Dover’s
generation, staffing and collective bargaining, managing dispatch, environmental controls and
complying with permits, guaranteeing capacity performance, maintaining records, preparing
budgets, outage plans, and reports to governmental authorities.
The current contract provides for a management fee and reimbursement for all other
costs, including staffing, relocation, insurances, training, permit fees, and advisors. All other
plant operating costs (consumables, tools, spare parts, equipment, capital improvement projects,
etc.) are paid directly by Dover. NAES management fee started at $175,000/year in 2006 and
has escalated annually to almost $212,000 in 2015.
The contract also provides an incentive bonus (which started at $140,000 and is now
approx. $173,000 for 2015-16) structure that rewards NAES and its personnel for achieving
certain goals, such as commercial availability, dependable capacity, safety, and environmental
performance. With the exception of 2014, NAES regularly achieved the full incentive bonus.
Both the management fee and the bonus escalated annually based on the Employment
Cost Index for private industry works by industry and occupational group, published by the
Bureau of Labor Statistics. The minimum was fixed at 1% per year. Since inception, escalation
has increased the fixed fee and incentive fee components by 21.1%.
Negotiation Objectives
Discussions with Dover representatives produced the following objectives:
1
The Agreement has been amended three times, June 1, 2006, July 1, 2007, and July 1, 2008.
Página 148
Exhibit A
Memorandum
July 15, 2015
Page 2
Update contract to address changes in operations, law, PJM, and
decommissioning of McKee Units 1 and 2.
Reduce the cost of NAES services.
Address Dover financial concerns, including training, cost estimates for special
services, cost of “home office services,” qualifying suppliers and bidders,
compliance with Dover procurement policies and practices.
Address issues around performance incentives and accountability
Incorporate market conditions affecting revenue and load growth
Set new term and provide more flexibility for termination
Proposed Amended and Restated Operation and Maintenance Agreement
The proposed agreement addresses Dover’s express objectives.
1. Lower the annual costs. The proposed agreement provides for a fixed annual
management fee, paid monthly, that will have a starting cost $43,000 lower than the current
agreement, but will be reduced further during the second and third years as staffing changes are
implemented corresponding to the scheduled decommissioning of McKee Units 1 and 2. See
Section 2.2 Management Fee. The fixed fee portion of the proposed agreement will be less than
the current agreement costs in 2015-16 when it expires in 2020. Overall, fixed fee and
reimbursable staffing expenses are estimated to reduce annual expenditures by more than
$300,000/year compared to the current agreement, in addition to O&M costs avoided by closing
Units 1 and 2. Some of these reductions start immediately, but the major reductions will be
realized in 2017. The proposed effective date is July 1, 2015.
A major change in the proposed agreement is the shift to a fixed annual fee for managing
Dover’s generation. The fee includes the management fee (which is decreased from the current
management fee), home office support (previously billed hourly as a reimbursable expense),
operating incentives, employee bonuses, and burdens (previously computed and reimbursed by
Dover). In this agreement, if NAES needs more staff or if Dover require more home office
support, the risk of higher management costs resides with NAES. In other words, this agreement
provides greater predictability. However, while also putting full responsibility on NAES to
manage down the size of the staff while maintaining reliability, it also puts more of NAES’ fee at
risk, as described below.
2. Changed the focus from incentive bonus paid at year-end to performance based reduction
where NAES pays Dover. The prior agreement had an incentive fee that had escalated to
approximately $173,000 that would be awarded to NAES if it met certain criteria for availability,
commercial unavailability, dependable capacity, safety performance, and environmental
performance. Each performance standard had a dollar value. The proposed agreement contains
objective performance standards that if not achieved penalize NAES. Under the proposed
Página 149
Exhibit A
Memorandum
July 15, 2015
Page 3
agreement, Dover negotiated a substantially higher amount of compensation at risk, defined as
the Maximum Performance Adjustment, if NAES does achieve not the performance standards.
See Section 2.2 Definition of Maximum Performance Adjustment and Appendix B. The
performance adjustment puts more of NAES’ fee at risk every year of the contract—over
$500,000/year compared to $172,000 now. NAES’s bottom line will “feel” the implications of a
plant failure and share in the cost that would be imposed on Dover by PJM, better aligning the
performance interests of both parties more closely.
3. Clarifies scope of services included. The proposed agreement clarifies staffing and home
office staff responsibilities that are included in the monthly fee. These services have been billed
on an hourly basis and averaged about $75,000/year. They will be included in the Management
Fee going forward. See Appendices A and F.
4. Procurement obligations. There is a positive tension on how costs are managed and
contracts awarded. This tension also creates conflicting objectives between lowering costs and
increasing plant operating revenue. The current draft seeks to focus on increasing revenue
through more attention to reliability to maximize the generating resource and the City’s
investment in those resources. We have heard during these negotiations an appreciation for
oversight and a concern about micro-management and mixed signals. The approach that is being
recommended necessarily involves the terms of the contract and the collaboration of NAES and
the City’s finance office, particularly procurement, to make it work smoothly. 2
The original and current agreement are based on having a third party operate and
maintain Dover’s generation. The agreement provides for an annual operating and capital budget
and regular consultation concerning plant performance and costs. The plant operating and
maintenance budget is provided as part of the Dover budget development cycle. A substantial
part of the budget is for staffing, planned maintenance, and capital repairs and replacements (also
planned). We are recommending a contingency in the budget for unplanned work. It is not
intended to be a fund for cost overruns or discretionary projects, but it is intended to address the
reality that generating plants, particularly of this vintage, experience equipment failures.
The procurement process follows the 2012 procurement procedures, Administrative
Manual, AMP 501, latest edition, which was approved by the City. Although this appears to be a
parallel procurement system, our recommendation is to continue using these procedures since the
equipment and services are within NAES’ particular expertise and it has the greatest knowledge
of suppliers for the types of equipment and services needed. Moreover, planned maintenance
and CIPs would all be reviewed as part of the budget process and also during periodic meetings
with Dover’s Representative, Electric Utility Director Harry Maloney. We believe his presence
provides a day-to-day awareness of the utility, oversight, and qualified point of contact for
NAES and the City who also is in regular consultation with the City Manager and Controller.
2
A recent inquiry involving cell phone service highlights the overlapping work and interests of
the parties. It may expedite matters if the City and NAES clarify the scope of procurements, i.e.,
which are general services and which require specific plant expertise, to determine which
services and types of procurements may be most efficiently managed by the City and by NAES.
Página 150
Exhibit A
Memorandum
July 15, 2015
Page 4
Mr. Maloney provides a level of technical capability regarding generating plants, distribution,
PJM, and municipal procurement that has not been present in recent years.
Another consideration is that the agreement and PJM impose substantial penalties for
failure to dispatch (availability). Consequently, both NAES and the City have an aligned interest
in assuring the generating plants are ready to be dispatched and that unplanned outages, as well
as planned outages, are as short as possible.
5. Duration of Agreement. The proposed agreement is for five years (2015-2020). Notice
for termination or renewal has been shorted to six months for Dover, and twelve months if
requested by NAES. The agreement expires in 2020.
6. Updated Agreement. The proposed agreement deletes all references to the transition
period when NAES initially assumed responsibility for plant operations. It incorporates the
changes anticipated by the scheduled withdrawal of McKee Units 1 and 2 from service in 2017.
It clarifies areas of responsibility between distribution and generation, and updates all the
appendices.
Página 151
Exhibit B
Final
AMENDED AND RESTATED
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
between
THE CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE
and
NAES CORPORATION
Dated as of
July 1, 2015
Página 152
Exhibit B
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ARTICLE I - AGREEMENT.................................................................................................................. 1
ARTICLE II - DEFINITIONS ................................................................................................................ 2
ARTICLE III - RESPONSIBILITIES OF NAES.................................................................................. 9
ARTICLE IV - ITEMS TO BE FURNISHED BY OWNER ............................................................... 16
ARTICLE V - REPRESENTATIVES, BUDGETS AND REPORTS.................................................. 17
ARTICLE VI - LIMITATIONS ON AUTHORITY............................................................................. 20
ARTICLE VII - COMPENSATION AND PAYMENT ........................................................................ 21
ARTICLE VIII - TERM ........................................................................................................................... .22
ARTICLE IX - INSURANCE .................................................................................................................. 24
ARTICLE X - INDEMNIFICATION...................................................................................................... 25
ARTICLE XI - LIABILITIES OF THE PARTIES ............................................................................... .26
ARTICLE XII - CONFIDENTIALITY................................................................................................... 27
ARTICLE XIII - TITLE, DOCUMENTS AND DATA ......................................................................... 28
ARTICLE XIV - MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS........................................................................... 29
APPENDIX A – SCOPE OF SERVICES................................................................................................ A-1
I. SITE PERSONNEL: OPERATIONAL PERIOD SERVICES…………………….. A-1
II. HOME OFFICE OPERATIONAL PERIOD SERVICES INCLUDED IN FEE…. A-3
III. HOME OFFICE PERSONNEL SERVICES PERFORMED ON HOURLY RATE
PLUS EXPENSES BASIS………………………………………………………………………………. A-5
IV. NAES SERVICES PERFORMED AT NEGOTIATED RATES…………………… A-6
APPENDIX B – PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENT PROVISIONS………………………………… B-1
APPENDIX C - FACILITY DESCRIPTION AND SPECIFICATIONS……………………………. C-1
APPENDIX D – NOTICES……………………………………………………………………………… D-1
APPENDIX E - SITE MAPS……………………………………………………………………………. E-1
APPENDIX F - HOME OFFICE PERSONNEL RATES…………………………………………….. F-1
Página 153
Exhibit B
AMENDED AND RESTATED
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
This AMENDED AND RESTATED OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) dated as of July 1, 2015 (the “Effective Date”) by and
among the City of Dover, Delaware (the “Owner” or “City”), a Delaware municipality, with
offices located at 15 Loockerman Plaza., Dover, Delaware 19903, and NAES CORPORATION
(f/k/a NORTH AMERICAN ENERGY SERVICES COMPANY) (“NAES”), a Washington
corporation, with offices located at 1180 NW Maple Street, Suite 200, Issaquah, WA 98027.
RECITALS
1. Owner owns the Facility (this and other capitalized terms are defined in Article II).
2. Owner and NAES entered into that certain Operation and Maintenance Agreement
dated as of May 4, 2006 (as amended on June 1, 2006, July 1, 2007, and May 5,
2008) pursuant to which NAES is performing operation and maintenance services on
behalf of Owner at the Facility (the “Existing Agreement”).
3. The Parties desire to amend and restate the Existing Agreement in accordance with
the terms of this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing premises, and of the mutual covenants,
undertakings and conditions set forth below, the Parties agree as follows:
ARTICLE I - AGREEMENT
1.1. Agreement. This Agreement consists of the recitals, and the terms and conditions
set forth in this Agreement, as well as the appendices that are referenced in the table of contents
and attached to this Agreement. The recitals, appendices and terms and conditions must be read
together to obtain a full understanding of the intent of the Parties.
1.2. Relationship of the Parties. Owner is retaining NAES as an independent contractor
to operate and maintain the Facility on behalf of Owner. Subject to any limitations expressly set
forth in this Agreement, Owner delegates to NAES, and NAES accepts from Owner, the
responsibility of operating and maintaining the Facility, as more specifically described below.
1.3. Entire Agreement. This Agreement contains the entire agreement between the
Parties with respect to operation and maintenance of the Facility and supersedes all prior
negotiations, undertakings, agreements and business term sheets. Neither Party will be bound by
or deemed to have made any representations, warranties, commitments or undertakings, except
as expressly stated in this Agreement.
1
Página 154
Exhibit B
ARTICLE II - DEFINITIONS
2.1 Rules of Construction. For all purposes of this Agreement (including the
preceding sections and recitals) unless otherwise required by the context in which any defined term
appears, capitalized terms have the meanings specified in this Article II. The singular includes
the plural, as the context requires. “Includes” or “including” means “including, but not limited
to.” The terms “ensure” and “reasonable efforts” will not be construed as a guarantee, but will
imply only a duty to use reasonable effort and care, consistent with Prudent Operating and
Maintenance Practices, and will include reasonable expenditures of money and at least such efforts
as NAES would undertake for its own assets or operations or for services provided to an Affiliate.
“Gross negligence” will not be construed as simple or ordinary negligence, it being the intent of
the Parties to preserve a distinction between errors made inadvertently while attempting to
perform with due care and actions taken with a knowing disregard for a substantial foreseeable
risk, notwithstanding whether a court would otherwise apply such distinction at common law.
“Day” (regardless of capitalization) shall mean a calendar day, unless specifically designated as a
Business Day. References to articles, sections and appendices mean the articles and sections of,
and appendices to, this Agreement, except where expressly stated otherwise.
2.2 Definitions. For all purposes of this Agreement (including the preceding sections
and recitals), unless otherwise required by the context in which any defined term appears,
capitalized terms have the meaning specified in this Section 2.2.
“Administrative Procedures Manual” means the manual, developed and provided by
NAES that includes, among other things, information, policies, and procedures pertinent to
NAES’s performance hereunder, including (i) reporting, (ii) correspondence and review
procedures, (iii) procurement and contracting procedures, (iv) accounting, bookkeeping and
record keeping, and (v) personnel procedures for NAES’s activities at the Facility.
“Affiliate” means, with respect to any Person, any other Person that, directly or indirectly
through one or more intermediaries, controls, is controlled by or is under common control with
such first Person. The term “control” (including related terms such as “controlled by” and
“under common control with”) means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to
direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of a Person, whether through the
ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise.
“Annual Facility Operating Plan” means the annual facility operating plan adopted
pursuant to Section 5.3.
“Agreement” means this Operation and Maintenance Agreement, as the same may be
modified or amended from time to time in accordance with its provisions.
“Applicable Law” means any federal, state or local laws, regulations, codes, judgments,
orders, and PJM requirements applicable to the operation of generation, Permits, licenses or
government approvals as may be applicable to the Facility, Owner or NAES.
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Exhibit B
“Bankruptcy” means a situation in which (i) a Person files a voluntary petition in
bankruptcy or is adjudicated as bankrupt or insolvent, or files any petition or answer or consent
seeking any reorganization, arrangement, moratorium, composition, readjustment, liquidation,
dissolution or similar relief for itself under the present or future applicable Federal, state or other
statute or law relative to bankruptcy, insolvency or other relief for debtors, or seeks or consents
to or acquiesces in the appointment of any trustee, receiver, conservator or liquidator of such Person
or of all or any substantial part of its properties (the term “acquiesce,” as used in this definition,
includes the failure to file a petition or motion to vacate or discharge any order, judgment or decree
within fifteen (15) days after entry of such order, judgment or decree); (ii) a court of competent
jurisdiction enters an order, judgment or decree approving a petition filed against any Person
seeking a reorganization, arrangement, moratorium, composition, readjustment, liquidation,
dissolution or similar relief under the present or any future Federal bankruptcy act, or any other
present or future Applicable Law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or other relief for debtors, and
such Person acquiesces and such decree remains unvacated and unstayed for an aggregate of sixty
(60) days (whether or not consecutive) from the date of entry thereof, or a trustee, receiver,
conservator or liquidator of such Person is appointed with the consent or acquiescence of such
Person and such appointment remains unvacated and unstayed for an aggregate of sixty (60)
days, whether or not consecutive; (iii) a Person admits in writing its inability to pay its debts as
they mature; (iv) a Person gives notice, to any Governmental Authority of insolvency or pending
insolvency, or suspension or pending suspension of operations; or (v) a Person makes a general
assignment for the benefit of creditors or takes any other similar action for the protection or benefit
of creditors (other than in the ordinary course of such party's business).
“Budget” means a budget adopted pursuant to Section 5.3.
“Business Day” means any day on which commercial banks in the location of the Facility
are authorized to be open for business.
“CMMS” means the computerized maintenance management system utilized by NAES at
the Facility.
“Confidential Information” has the meaning set forth in Section 12.1.
“Dispute” has the meaning set forth in Section 14.7.1.
“Due Date” means, with respect to any NAES invoice, the date that is thirty (30) days
following the date on which NAES submits the invoice to Owner, except for charges that are
disputed pursuant to Section 7.4 hereof, in which case the Due Date is thirty (30) days following
the date of the final resolution of the dispute.
“Effective Date” means the date first above written.
“Emergency” means an event or act that is imminently likely to (i) endanger persons; (ii)
damage, destroy, or cause a loss of all or any portion of the Facility; or (iii) damage, destroy, or
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Exhibit B
cause a material adverse effect on the integrity or security of, the Owner’s electric distribution
system; or (iv) an emergency declared by PJM.
“Energy Manager” means an entity appointed by Owner as its agent to perform strategic
dispatch of the Facility, and acquire fuel and other products necessary to serve Owner’s distribution
load.
“Environmental Law” means any federal, state or local statute, rule, regulation, order,
code, Permit, directive or ordinance and any binding judicial or administrative interpretation or
requirement pertaining to (i) the regulation and protection of health, safety, and the indoor or
outdoor environment; (ii) the conservation, management, development, control or use of land,
natural resources, or wildlife; (iii) the protection or use of surface water and ground water; (iv)
the management, manufacture, possession, presence, use, generation, transportation, or handling
of, or exposure to any Hazardous Material; or (v) pollution (including release of any hazardous
substance to air, land, surface water and ground water).
“Expiration Date” means May 31, 2020, or the last day of any Extended Term, as the case
may be.
“Extended Term” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.1.
“Extra Work” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.2(x).
“Extraordinary Item” means any purchase order or contract for services issued by
NAES on behalf of Owner in an amount greater than Twenty-five Thousand Dollars ($25,000) or
an annual blanket purchase order or service contract or multiple purchase orders or service
contracts with the same party that NAES reasonably anticipates will exceed Twenty-five Thousand
Dollars ($25,000) during an Operating Year.
“Facility” means the McKee Run and VanSant 11 power generation facilities, collectively,
located in Dover, Delaware, and includes all electrical or thermal devices and related structures
and connections (up to the points of interconnection identified in Appendix C) that are located at
the Site and used for the production of power for the benefit of Owner, all as more fully described
in Appendix C.
“Facility Agreements” means this Agreement, the Interconnection Agreement, the Fuel
Acquisition Agreements, the PJM Agreement, applicable equipment maintenance agreements in
effect or entered into from time to time by Owner, and equipment contracts with regard to
warranties and equipment design and specifications and portions of the Financing Agreements, if
any, relevant to this Agreement.
“Facility Manuals” means Facility equipment manuals, system descriptions, system
operating instructions, equipment maintenance instructions and pertinent design documentation
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Exhibit B
created by the Persons that constructed the Facility or manufactured its equipment, to the extent
provided to NAES by Owner pursuant to Section 4.4.1.
“Financing Agreements” means any and all loan agreements, notes, bonds, indentures,
security agreements, registration or disclosure statements, subordination agreements, mortgages,
deeds of trust, participation agreements and other documents relating to the construction, interim
and long-term financing for the construction, operation and maintenance of the Facility and any
refinancing thereof (including a lease pursuant to which Owner is the lessee of the Facility)
provided by the Lenders, including any and all modifications, supplements, extensions, renewals
and replacements of any such financing or refinancing.
“Force Majeure Event” has the meaning set forth in Section 14.6.1.
“Fuel” means natural gas and fuel oil.
“Fuel Acquisition Agreements” means, collectively, all agreements as shall be in effect
from time to time between Owner and any other entity for the supply or delivery of Fuel to the
Facility.
“Governmental Authority” means any federal, state, local or foreign governmental
department, commission, board, bureau, authority, agency, court, instrumentality or judicial or
regulatory body or entity.
“Hazardous Materials” means (a) any petroleum or petroleum products, radioactive
materials, asbestos in any form that is or could become friable, urea formaldehyde foam insulation,
and transformers or other equipment that contain dielectric fluid containing polychlorinated
biphenyl’s (“PCBs”); (b) any chemicals, materials or substances that are now or hereafter become
defined as or included in the definition of “hazardous substances,” “hazardous wastes,” “hazardous
materials,” “extremely hazardous wastes,” “restricted hazardous wastes,” “toxic substances,”
“toxic pollutants,” “pollution,” “pollutants,” “regulated substances,” or words of similar import
under Applicable Law; or (c) any other chemical, material, substance or waste declared to be
hazardous, toxic or polluting material by any Governmental Authority, exposure to which is now
or hereafter prohibited, limited or regulated by any Governmental Authority.
“Home Office Personnel” means the Project Manager and such other employees of NAES
who are engaged in the provision of the Services, except for Site Personnel.
“Initial Term” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.1.
“Interconnection Agreement” means the agreement dated September 12, 2004 by and
between Owner and Delmarva Power & Light Company, as the same may be modified or amended
from time to time in accordance with its terms.
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Exhibit B
“Late Payment Rate” means the Prime Rate plus 1% of interest per annum as published
in the Wall Street Journal, Credit Markets & Commodities, “Money Rates,” Prime Rate.
“Lender” means any entity or entities providing financing or refinancing under the
Financing Agreements in connection with construction or permanent financing for the Facility, and
their permitted successors and assigns.
“Liabilities” has the meaning set forth in Section 10.1.
“Management Fee” means for each Operating Year during the Term, the amounts set forth
in the table below:
Operating Year Management Fee
2015-2016 $797,304
2016-2017 $781,287
2017-2018 $792,633
2018-2019 $815,289
2019-2020 $838,631
“Maximum Performance Adjustment” means for each Operating Year during the Term, the
amounts set forth below:
Operating Year Maximum Performance
Adjustment
2015-2016 $532,304
2016-2017 $509,587
2017-2018 $514,043
2018-2019 $529,613
2019-2020 $545,667
“NAES” has the meaning set forth at the beginning of this Agreement and includes its
successors and permitted assigns hereunder.
“NAES Indemnitees” has the meaning set forth in Section 10.2.
“NAES Proprietary Information” has the meaning set forth in Section 13.3.
“O&M Manuals” means the operating procedures and Facility systems descriptions,
maintenance procedures, training, safety, chemistry and environmental manuals, together with
the documents and schedules described in such manuals.
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Exhibit B
"Operating Costs" has the meaning set forth in Section 7.3.1.
“Operational Phase” means that period during the Term starting on the Effective Date and
ending with the termination of this Agreement.
“Operational Phase Services” means those Services to be performed by NAES during the
Operational Phase, as described in Section 3.1 and listed in Appendix A.
“Operating Year” means the period that commences on July 1 and ends on June 30 of the
next calendar year, or such earlier date that this Agreement is terminated during any such Operating
Year.
“Owner” has the meaning set forth at the beginning of this Agreement and includes
Owner’s successors and permitted assigns hereunder. The Owner may be represented by the
Owner’s Representative as described in Section 5.2.
“Owner Indemnitees” has the meaning set forth in Section 10.1.1.
“Owner’s Representative” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.2.
“Party” means a party to this Agreement and “Parties” means, collectively, both Parties
to this Agreement, unless the context clearly requires a different construction.
“Performance Adjustment” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.7.
"Permit" means any permit, license, consent or approval that is required for the operation
or maintenance of the Facility or the performance of any Service and includes Permits required
under Environmental Laws.
“Person” means any Party, individual, partnership, corporation, association, limited
liability company, business trust, government or political subdivision thereof, governmental
agency or other entity.
“PJM” means PJM Interconnection, LLC, its successors and assigns.
“Plan” means a plan adopted pursuant to Section 5.3.
“Plant Manager” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.1.2.
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Exhibit B
"Pollution and Contamination" means any ground or air pollution caused by NAES in
violation of Environmental Law. “Pollution and Contamination” includes Hazardous Materials
present on the Site on July 1, 2006 that are not managed by NAES thereafter in accordance with
Environmental Law.
"Pre-existing Pollution and Contamination" means (i) ground or air pollution caused by
Owner in violation of Environmental Law; or (ii) any Hazardous Material present at the Site on the
Takeover Date or brought to the Site thereafter by the Owner.
“Project Manager” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.1.1.
“Prudent Operating and Maintenance Practices” means those practices, methods and acts
generally employed in the power generation industry that at the particular time in question, in the
exercise of reasonable judgment in light of the facts known at the time the decision in question was
being made, would have been expected to accomplish the desired result of such decision consistent
with the goals established in a Budget and Plan, and the requirements of Applicable Law. With
respect to NAES, Prudent Operating and Maintenance Practices are not limited to the optimum
practices, methods or acts to the exclusion of all others, but rather include a spectrum of
possible practices, methods or acts commonly employed in the power generation industry,
including taking reasonable actions to provide (i) adequate materials, resources and supplies, to the
extent within the control of NAES and available to meet Facility needs; (ii) a sufficient number of
operators who are available and adequately trained to operate the Facility; and (iii) the timely
performance of preventive, routine, and non-routine maintenance and repairs, as exemplified and
generally described in Appendix A, subject, in all cases, to the limitations on NAES’s authority
and duties as set forth in this Agreement.
“Rated Capacity” means the capacity of the Facility, expressed in megawatts for various
Site ambient conditions, as the same shall be adjusted for degradation and actual equipment
performance, from time to time, by agreement of NAES and Owner in good faith pursuant to
protocols in the Administrative Procedures Manual.
”Reimbursable Costs” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.2.
“Services” means all the work to be performed by NAES as described or referenced in
Article III and listed in Appendix A.
“Site” means the land on which the Facility is situated, as more fully described in
Appendix E.
“Site Personnel” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.6.1.
“Standards of Performance” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.5.
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Exhibit B
“Term” means the Initial Term together with any Extended Term.
“Termination Payment” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.2.
“Termination Transition Period” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.5.
"U.S. Dollars" or "Dollars" means United States Dollars, the lawful currency of the
United States of America.
ARTICLE III - RESPONSIBILITIES OF NAES
NAES will perform the Services listed in Appendix A, in order to operate and maintain the Facility
on behalf of Owner. This Article III sets forth the processes, limitations and standards applicable
to NAES’s performance of the Services.
3.1 Operational Phase. During the Operational Phase, NAES will have day-to-day
operational control over the Facility and will perform the Operational Phase Services.
3.2 Procurement.
3.2.1 General. Subject to a Budget and Plan, NAES will procure goods,
services, consumables, parts, tools, and equipment as needed from time to time for the operation
and maintenance of the Facility consistent with the Administrative Manual Procurement, “AMP
501”, as amended and updated. NAES will nominate, subject to Owner’s written approval,
responsible Persons from among the Site Personnel to sign purchase orders on behalf of Owner;
provided, however, that such purchase orders will be signed in the name of Owner, and will be
for the exclusive benefit of Owner and the Facility. NAES will negotiate with vendors from
standard terms and conditions that are set forth in the Administrative Procedures Manual, including
reasonable warranties in favor of Owner. NAES will utilize AMP 501 purchasing procedures
except when (i) the cost of conducting a competitive bidding process is likely to outweigh the
potential savings it would produce; (ii) the goods, consumables, parts, tools, and equipment are
not available from more than one vendor; (iii) purchases are required to respond to an
Emergency; or (iv) such other purchasing procedures are likely to result in a price as low or
lower than that resulting from competitive bidding. NAES shall consult with Owner, provide a
complete explanation and rationale, and disclose all aspects of the transaction whenever, in its
opinion exceptions (i), (ii), or (iii) apply. NAES may contract with one or more subcontractors to
perform any part, but not all, of the Services, but any such subcontract shall not relieve NAES of
any of its obligations under this Agreement or create any relationship between Owner or the
subcontractor.
3.2.2 Non-Budgeted Items. Operator will not exceed the overall total spending
approved in a Budget without prior written approval from Owner; provided, however, that
subject to Section 3.13 hereof, no such approval by Owner is required if, in NAES’s
reasonable judgment, such purchases are required to address an Emergency.
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Exhibit B
3.2.3 Extraordinary Items. Notwithstanding that a purchase is contemplated by
a Budget, NAES will obtain Owner’s written approval prior to procurement of any Extraordinary
Item. Owner may elect to directly procure Extraordinary Items.
3.2.4 Contract Administration. NAES will administer routine vendor
relations under purchase orders and contracts for service issued by NAES on behalf of Owner.
NAES will also perform those day-to-day operational tasks required under the Facility
Agreements, as requested by Owner, including communicating fuel supply requirements and
reporting power sales in accordance with Owner’s written specifications. NAES will not be
deemed to have assumed any of Owner’s contractual obligations under the Facility Agreements by
means of such performance.
3.2.5 Affiliate Contracts. If NAES intends to issue a purchase order to an
Affiliate of NAES, the costs of which are Operating Costs, the terms of any such purchase
order will be in accordance with normal commercial practice, at arm’s length on such terms as
would be appropriate if the purchase order had been entered into with a Person other than an
Affiliate of NAES. All such purchase orders are subject to prior written approval by Owner.
3.3 Waste Management. In accordance with Applicable Law and subject to Section
3.15 hereof, NAES will collect, store and manage on the Site all wastes (including Hazardous
Materials) generated by the operation and maintenance of the Facility. NAES will coordinate
with third party waste transportation and disposal providers for the removal of wastes from the
Site by such third parties for disposal.
3.4 Rated Capacity. NAES will use its reasonable efforts to operate the Facility at its
Rated Capacity without unnecessarily decreasing its useful life or increasing the scheduled
maintenance of the Facility, unless otherwise directed by Owner or constrained by Prudent
Operating and Maintenance Practices, scheduled maintenance, insufficient fuel, restrictions of
operating Permits, a Force Majeure event, a Budget and Plan, or the limitations or condition of
the Facility (as degraded from time to time). In discharging its obligations under this Section
3.4, NAES will operate the Facility so as to comply with any applicable dispatch instructions of
the PJM or Owner (or any successor of either, or other Person identified by Owner in writing to
NAES as being authorized to provide dispatch instructions). In a situation not involving an
Emergency, in the event NAES receives conflicting dispatch instructions, NAES will follow the
dispatch instructions of Owner; provided, however, in the event of an Emergency, NAES will
follow the instructions of PJM. NAES will inform Owner of any Emergency action as soon as
reasonably practicable under the circumstances. NAES will give Owner prompt notice of
any inability to make deliveries of power or capacity, and of any outages. In case of any
interruption, curtailment or reduction in (i) supplies of fuel, or (ii) acceptance of energy or capacity
by PJM, or in case of any other constraint being imposed on NAES, NAES will promptly upon
such event or upon receipt of notice thereof, notify Owner thereof and of its plan to restore
operation and of any plan by the counter-party (where a Facility Agreement is involved) to
do so (if NAES has been notified thereof), and will upon removal of the constraint, use its
reasonable efforts to restore full Facility operation in accordance with this Section 3.4.
3.5 Standards for Performance of the Services. NAES will perform the Services in all
material respects in accordance with the following documents, which will be referred to in this
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Exhibit B
Agreement as “Standards of Performance”: (i) the O&M Manuals, (ii) the contractor,
manufacturer and vendor warranties and Facility Manuals provided by Owner to NAES, (iii) the
applicable Budget and Plan, (iv) all Applicable Laws, (v) Prudent Operating and Maintenance
Practices, (vi) insurer requirements delivered to NAES by Owner in writing, (vii) the requirements
in the Facility Agreements (as and to the extent provided to NAES) in accordance with Section 3.8
and (viii) this Agreement. Subject to the other provisions of this Agreement, NAES will perform
the Services and other obligations under this Agreement in a manner consistent with Owner’s
directions. Actions taken (or not taken) by NAES pursuant to Owner’s direction will be deemed
to be within the Standards of Performance, and NAES will have no liability for acting or refraining
to act in accordance with Owner’s directions.
3.6 Personnel Matters.
3.6.1 General. NAES will provide and make available as necessary, in accordance
with the requirements of the Budget and Plan, all labor and professional, supervisory and
managerial personnel required to perform the Services. Such personnel will be qualified for the
duties to which they are assigned. All individuals employed by NAES in the performance of the
obligations under this Agreement and who are permanently assigned to the Facility (the “Site
Personnel”) and “Home Office Personnel” will be employees of NAES or its Affiliates, and their
working hours, rates of compensation and all other matters relating to their employment will be
determined solely by NAES (subject to Owner's approval rights with respect to the Budget and
with respect to certain Site Personnel as provided in Sections 3.6.2 and 3.6.3). NAES will
retain sole authority, control and responsibility with respect to its employment policy and its
employees. No City employee is included in the Site Personnel. NAES will submit for Owner's
approval the staffing requirements for the Facility.
3.6.2 Selection of Plant Manager. NAES will submit its selection for Plant
Manager to Owner, who will have written approval over NAES's selection of such person.
3.6.3 Replacement of Plant Manager. NAES will inform Owner of its intent to
replace the Plant Manager. Prior to employment of the replacement Plant Manager, NAES will
obtain Owner’s written approval.
3.6.4 Recognition of Union. NAES shall recognize the Union and shall enter
into good faith negotiations, taking into account the cost that staffing and operating the Facility has
on overall utility rates charged by the Owner, when negotiating a Collective Bargaining
Agreement.
3.6.5 Negotiating of a Collective Bargaining Agreement. NAES shall be
responsible for the labor agreement, including any extension and/or modification to the existing
agreement, however if any such negotiation results in a contingent or ongoing liability to the
City upon termination of NAES for any reason including expiration of this Agreement, such
obligation will be disclosed to and approved by the Owner prior to acceptance by NAES.
3.7 Inventory. NAES will be responsible for proper maintenance, control and
storage of the inventory located at the Facility on the Takeover Date, and of all subsequently
procured inventory throughout the Term, and will be responsible, subject to Section 3.2, for
purchasing such additional inventory as NAES may determine to be necessary or appropriate from
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Exhibit B
time to time. NAES is authorized to receive and store materials and supplies on behalf of Owner
that Owner directly purchased.
3.8 Compliance with Facility Agreements. NAES will abide by the requirements of
the Facility Agreements as delivered to NAES, and will otherwise cooperate in good faith with and
assist Owner in complying with all material terms contained in such Facility Agreements, in each
case to the extent related to the performance of the Services. NAES will incorporate any
requirements contained in Facility Agreements, as needed, into the Administrative Procedures
Manual. This Section 3.8 will not be deemed to make NAES a party to the Facility Agreements
or to impose any obligations on NAES under the Facility Agreements. NAES will not be charged
with knowledge of the form or content of any Facility Agreement unless and until it has been
provided to NAES by Owner.
3.9 Permits. NAES will obtain Permits required by Applicable Law to be in NAES’s
name. NAES will supply data and other information to support Owner’s efforts to secure and
maintain in effect all Permits in Owner’s name. All environmental Permits (whether relating to
Hazardous Materials or otherwise) will be solely in the name of Owner. NAES will assist Owner
in securing renewals or replacements of all environmental Permits by supplying data and
information to Owner with regard to the operation and maintenance of the Facility.
3.10 Compliance with Applicable Laws. NAES will comply with all Applicable
Laws. NAES will notify Owner immediately upon becoming aware of any actual or potential non-
compliance and will cooperate with Owner to remedy such non-compliance. To alert Site
Personnel to compliance issues, NAES will insert appropriate procedures in the O&M
Manuals, including procedures related to safety and environmental matters, and will conduct
regular training sessions on compliance issues for Site Personnel. NAES will conduct all
inspections or tests required by Applicable Law.
3.11 Operating Records and Reports. NAES will prepare and maintain in good
order at the Site operating logs, records and reports documenting the operation and maintenance
of the Facility. Such operating data will include meter, gauge and monitoring readings,
maintenance records, fuel records, and other information required for compliance with the
Standards of Performance. NAES will also compile and maintain such information, reports and
data related to NAES’s management of any wastes and Hazardous Materials located at the Site as
required to comply with Environmental Laws. All operating data, reports, records, and other
information that may be submitted to any Governmental Authority by NAES on behalf of Owner
will be transmitted to Owner where possible prior to filing and in any event contemporaneously
with such filing. Records and reports shall be maintained at the Facility and no records and reports
shall be removed or destroyed without the prior written consent of the Owner.
3.12 No Liens or Encumbrances. NAES will keep and maintain the Facility free and
clear of all liens and encumbrances resulting from the personal debts and obligations of NAES or
the failure of NAES to perform its duties hereunder in accordance with the Standards of
Performance.
3.13 Emergency Action. In the event of an Emergency, NAES will take immediate
action to prevent or mitigate any damage, injury or loss threatened by such Emergency.
NAES will notify Owner of such Emergency within thirty minutes following the Emergency’s
onset and will advise Owner about NAES’s response thereto. NAES will submit a report to Owner
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Exhibit B
within 48 hours following the conclusion of the Emergency describing the cause of the Emergency
(if known), NAES’s response, and any measures recommended by NAES to prevent the
Emergency’s recurrence. NAES may expend such funds as necessary to respond immediately to
an Emergency, but will advise Owner of such expenditures and obtain Owner’s approval of any
additional expenditures as soon as is reasonably practicable thereafter.
3.14 O&M Manuals. NAES will maintain, review, and submit to Owner for approval
recommendations for changes to the O&M Manuals when NAES deems any changes are
advisable. If Owner submits to NAES proposed revisions or updates to the O&M Manuals, NAES
will, within thirty (30) days of receipt, submit written comments thereon to Owner, and thereafter
the Parties will negotiate a final disposition of such proposal. The O&M Manuals will remain in
effect for the Term, subject to such revision, amendment or supplementation as may be either (i)
required to ensure continued compliance with Applicable Laws or the Standards of Performance,
or (ii) agreed in writing by the Parties. NAES will draft, certify and comply with a Spill Prevention,
Control, and Countermeasures Plan that is specific to the Facility.
3.15 Incorporated Services. The Services shall be deemed to include supplementary
matters either practical or essential to the efficient execution of the Services, whether those
supplementary matters are indicated by this Agreement, the Facility Agreements, or otherwise,
so long as such supplementary matters are not outside of the scope of Services and would not
otherwise materially and adversely affect NAES’s obligations under this Agreement.
3.16 Site Procedures; Safety. NAES shall perform all Services in accordance with the
Site Procedures, including those relating to safety, security and fire prevention. NAES shall
establish and maintain a safety program designed so that the Services will be performed in a safe
manner and in accordance with all Applicable Laws governing safety.
3.17 PJM Tariffs/Rules. NAES acknowledges that it is familiar with PJM’s tariffs and
other PJM system rules relating to the offering of the Facility into the PJM markets. NAES
further agrees that its performance of its obligations under this Agreement will comply in all
material aspects with these rules, and to exercise the degree of diligence required by Prudent
Operating and Maintenance Practices to assure that any data or information provided to the Owner
or the Energy Manager as to Facility availability, capacity and operating conditions are accurate
at the time made based upon the best information available and the analysis of such information.
NAES further agrees to: (i) perform its obligations under this Agreement, including the Services,
in a manner to avoid and/or minimize any and all market consequences, sanctions or penalties that
may result from the failure of the Facilities (or any portion thereof) to perform; (ii) comply with
PJM dispatch instructions to the extent such information is received from Owner or Energy
Manager; and (iii) provide Owner, Energy Manager and PJM such information as PJM reasonably
requests.
3.18 Environmental Permits.
3.18.1 Air Permit. Owner is responsible for maintaining the air permit for the
Facility in accordance with the State of Delaware Title V Air Permitting Program as authorized
pursuant to Title V of the Clean Air Act, 42 U.S.C. 7651 et seq. NAES shall collect data, prepare
reports and oversee Facility compliance with the air permit.
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Exhibit B
3.18.2 NPDES Permit. Owner is responsible for maintaining the wastewater
discharge permit for the Facility in accordance with the State of Delaware National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System Permitting program as authorized pursuant to the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act, 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq. NAES shall collect data, prepare reports and
oversee Facility compliance with the wastewater discharge permit.
3.18.3 Environmental Monitoring and Reporting. NAES shall be responsible for
all environmental monitoring and reporting in connection with the Facility and the Site as required
by Applicable Law, including all Toxic Release Inventory reports and chemical inventory reports
required under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act, as codified in the
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, 42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.
3.19 Environmental Responsibility.
3.19.1 Title to, ownership of, and legal responsibility and liability for, any
and all Pollution and Contamination, other than Pre-existing Pollution and Contamination, shall
at all times remain with NAES.
3.19.2 NAES will, at NAES's sole expense and risk, take such action as may
be required to mitigate and correct the occurrence and effects of Pollution and Contamination.
Such actions include arranging for handling, storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of all
Pollution and Contamination. NAES will be solely responsible for obtaining a disposal site for
Pollution and Contamination. Operator will look to the disposal facility and/or transporter for
any responsibility or liability arising from improper disposal or transportation of Pollution and
Contamination. Owner will not have or exert any control over NAES in NAES's obligations or
responsibilities in the storage, transportation, treatment or disposal of any Pollution and
Contamination. NAES will complete and execute any forms or other documents necessary to
comply with any law or requirement of any Governmental Authority relating to the generation,
storage, handling, treatment, transportation, or disposal of Pollution and Contamination. In the
event that Owner executes or completes any such forms, Owner will be, and will be deemed to
have acted as, NAES's agent. For the avoidance of doubt, the foregoing liability of NAES does
not apply where NAES has managed Hazardous Materials on the Site in compliance with
Environmental Law, and delivered such Hazardous Materials to licensed third party providers of
transportation and disposal services, in which case title to, ownership of, and legal responsibility
for, any and all releases of such Hazardous Materials shall remain with Owner.
3.19.3 NAES will not dispose of any waste or Hazardous Materials on the
Site, nor will it bring any waste or Hazardous Materials from any other location for treatment,
storage, or disposal on the Site. NAES will be responsible for discharging waste or effluent from
the Site in violation of an applicable Permit.
3.19.4 NAES will not cut any trees, conduct any mining operations, remove
any sand, gravel or similar substances from the ground, commit waste of any kind, or in any
manner substantially change the contour or condition of the Site, except as required for
maintenance of the normal right of way and Facility maintenance and operation as contemplated
herein.
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Exhibit B
3.19.5 In the event NAES discovers any historical, archeological,
architectural or other cultural artifacts, relics, remains or objects of antiquity at the Site, NAES will
immediately notify Owner before disturbing such artifacts, relics, remains or objects.
3.19.6 NAES will disclose fully to Owner in writing any operating changes,
spills, releases, contamination or other environmental condition that could lead to degradation of
the Site or violate any Applicable Law then in effect; any citations or warnings for violations of
any Applicable Law; and any other act or omission that could lead to liability under any law or
requirement of a Governmental Authority. NAES will inform Owner in writing within 24 hours
of the occurrence of any of the foregoing of the measures NAES has undertaken and proposes to
take and what other responses to address the situation and prevent its recurrence. Owner may
conduct a Phase 1 environmental review during the Term; NAES shall cooperate in such
environmental review.
3.19.7 Compliance with Environmental Laws. During the Term of this
Agreement, NAES shall cooperate and assist Owner with Owner’s acquisition of data and
information, and preparation and filing with appropriate Governmental Authorities of any notices,
plans, submissions, or other materials and information necessary for compliance with applicable
Environmental Laws and the requirements of any Permits related to the Facility. All such
environmental reports shall be submitted by, and in the name of, Owner and not NAES. All costs
associated therewith, including the costs of any outside consultants, legal services, Governmental
Authority charges, sampling and remedial work, shall be paid by Owner as an Operating Cost.
Any action taken by NAES pursuant to any such applicable Environmental Law, including
proceedings and filings made in connection therewith, shall be undertaken, and any Home Office
Costs associated with any such compliance action shall only be incurred, by NAES with Owner's
prior consent, unless a Governmental Authority or Applicable Law requires NAES to incur such
costs and expenses prior to obtaining such consent.
3.19.8 Corrective Action. Nothing contained herein shall be construed as
requiring NAES to take any corrective action with respect to the operation, maintenance, use or
condition of the Facility unless (y) affirmatively and expressly directed in writing to so do by
Owner and appropriate funding is made available by Owner, or (z) affirmatively and expressly
directed to do so by a Governmental Authority, in order to comply with any Environmental Law,
in which case the cost of any corrective actions so undertaken shall be deemed an Operating Cost.
Owner shall serve as the “Responsible Official” for purposes of Clean Air Act permitting and
reporting, as “Designated Representative” for purposes of applicable environmental “Cap and
Trade” programs requiring such, including but not limited to Acid Rain Program, Clean Air
Interstate Rule or its replacement and Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, as applicable, and as
corporate responsible official for other environmental programs, permitting and reporting. NAES
and Owner agree (i) in the course of performing Services under this Agreement, neither NAES nor
any of its officers, directors, employees, agents, representatives or Affiliates (collectively, the
“NAES Parties”) is, has been or will be asserted by Owner to be, nor will any such Person have
responsibility as, in each case before an environmental protection government agency, an
“operator” of the Facility for purposes of, and as that term is used in, Environmental Law; and (ii)
Owner shall not assert before any environmental protection governmental agencies that a NAES
Party is the operator of the Facility for purposes of Environmental Law. Owner agrees to use its
commercially reasonable efforts to take or cause to be taken all reasonable actions, to do or cause
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Exhibit B
to be done and to assist and cooperate with NAES in doing all reasonable things to establish before
such environmental governmental protection agencies that no NAES Party is the “operator” of the
Facility.
3.20 Income Taxes. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, NAES
shall be responsible for and pay all income taxes and any withholding taxes or other taxes assessed
or based upon NAES’s corporate existence or income imposed directly or indirectly upon NAES.
3.21 Daily and Monthly Operations Reports. Each day during the Operational Phase,
Operation will prepare and deliver an operation report to Owner (in a form approved by Owner)
that summarizes the Services performed by NAES during the immediately preceding day. Upon
Owner’s request, each month during the Operational Phase, NAES will prepare and deliver to
Owner an operation report (in a form approved by Owner) summarizing the Services performed by
NAES during the immediately preceding month.
ARTICLE IV - ITEMS TO BE FURNISHED BY OWNER
4.1 General. Owner expressly reserves the authority to make, and will make, such
business and strategic decisions as it deems appropriate from time to time in reference to the
operation and maintenance of the Facility. Owner will furnish to NAES, at Owner's expense, the
information, services, materials and other items described in this Article IV. All such items will
be made available at such times and in such manner as may be reasonably required for the
expeditious and orderly performance of the Services by NAES.
4.2 Information. Owner will provide to NAES copies of all Facility Agreements and
any modifications or additional Facility Agreements promptly after execution of Facility
Agreements, as well as copies of all technical, operational and other Facility information
reasonably available to Owner or in Owner's possession and supportive of NAES’s performance
of the Services. Subject to the Standards of Performance, NAES will be entitled to rely upon any
information provided by Owner or any of the other parties to the Facility Agreements in the
performance of the Services.
4.3 Access to Facility. Owner will provide NAES unlimited access to the Facility and
the Site as required to provide the Services.
4.4 Other Owner Supplied Items. Owner agrees to make, or cause to make, available
to NAES the following items:
4.4.1 Facility Manuals. Owner will provide, or cause to be provided, the master
copies of the Facility Manuals to NAES for use in development of the O&M Manuals. Thereafter,
Owner will provide any updates to the Facility Manuals received from equipment manufacturers
to NAES and NAES shall incorporate them into the O&M Manuals.
4.4.2 Fuel; Water; Stand-by Electricity. Owner will furnish and deliver, or
arrange to furnish and deliver, to the Facility fuel, water and stand-by electricity.
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Exhibit B
4.4.3 Spare Parts and Supplies. Owner will provide and furnish, or cause to be
provided and furnished, to NAES an inventory of spare parts and supplies as necessary for NAES
to perform the Services and fund additional purchases as set forth in a Budget.
4.4.4 Instructions, Approvals. Owner will provide or cause to be provided to
NAES all instructions NAES is required to obtain in accordance with this Agreement. Owner
will not unreasonably withhold approvals required by this Agreement. Owner will not direct
NAES to take any action inconsistent with Applicable Law or otherwise adversely affecting the
safety, health or protection of, or otherwise endangering any persons or property located at or about
the Facility.
4.4.5 Budgeting. Owner shall make timely and commercially reasonable
budgeting decisions to permit the Facility to operate safely and in accordance with Applicable Law
and to permit NAES to perform its obligations hereunder.
4.5 Facility Agreements. Owner will administer (except to the extent certain day-to-
day operational tasks have been delegated to NAES under Section 3.2.4) and comply with the
Facility Agreements. Owner will provide NAES written notice of any changes to requirements
under the Facility Agreements or a copy of any agreement replacing any Facility Agreement.
4.6 Permits. Owner will obtain from the appropriate Governmental Authorities, all
Permits for the ownership, operation and maintenance of the Facility other than Permits required
by Applicable Law to be in the name of NAES.
ARTICLE V - REPRESENTATIVES, BUDGETS AND REPORTS
5.1 Representatives of NAES.
5.1.1 Project Manager. NAES has appointed a “Project Manager” from its Home
Office Personnel who will be authorized to represent NAES with Owner concerning NAES’s
performance of the Services. The Project Manager will also supervise the Home Office Personnel
in supporting the Site Personnel. NAES is bound by the written communications, directions,
requests and decisions made by the Project Manager. NAES will notify Owner in writing of the
identity of the Project Manager, and of any successors.
5.1.2 Plant Manager. NAES has appointed an individual (the “Plant Manager”),
subject to approval of Owner as provided in Section 3.6.2, who will be one of the Site Personnel
and who will direct and manage NAES's Site Personnel with full responsibility for the performance
of all of the Services. For issues arising out of the day-to-day administration of the Operation
Phase Services, the Plant Manager may communicate directly with Owner. Neither the Project
Manager nor the Plant Manager has any authority to modify this Agreement.
5.2 Representatives of Owner. On or before the Effective Date, Owner shall appoint
(i) an “Energy Manager” who shall be authorized and empowered to act for and on behalf of Owner
on matters concerning the dispatch, scheduling, and fuel acquisition related to the administration
of this Agreement; and (ii) an “Owner’s Representative” who shall be the on-site person for budget,
asset and property management (excluding the responsibilities assigned to the Energy Manager),
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Exhibit B
and Owner’s other obligations hereunder. In matters delegated to the Energy Manager or Owner’s
Representative, Owner shall be bound by the written communications, directions, requests and
decisions made by the Energy Manager and Owner’s Representative. Owner shall notify NAES
in writing upon the appointment of the Energy Manager, Owner’s Representative, and their
successors.
5.3 Plans and Budgets.
5.3.1 Adoption.
5.3.1.1 Process. On a date no later than the last day of January of every
calendar year, NAES will submit to Owner a proposed budget and plan with respect to the Services
(the “Budget” and the “Plan”). Each Budget will be structured on a monthly basis and will be
a projection, in detail reasonably acceptable to Owner, of all Operating Costs and Reimbursable
Costs to be expended in the performance of the Services. Each Plan will state the assumptions
upon which the related Budget is based and the implementation plans for the Services, including:
(i) anticipated operations and repairs, (ii) routine maintenance and overhaul schedules (including
planned major maintenance), (iii) procurement, (iv) staffing, personnel and labor activities, (v)
administrative activities, (vi) capital improvements, (vii) other work proposed to be undertaken
by NAES, and (viii) a contingency for unplanned projects. Owner will review each proposed
Budget and Plan as promptly as possible and may, by written request, require changes, additions,
deletions and modifications. Owner and NAES will then meet and use reasonable efforts to agree
upon a final Budget and Plan prior to the commencement of the applicable period. Each final
Budget and Plan will remain in effect throughout the applicable period, subject to updating,
revision and amendment proposed by either Party and consented to in writing by the other Party.
5.3.1.2 Adjustments. If either Party becomes aware of facts or
circumstances that it believes necessitate a change to a Budget or Plan, that Party will
immediately notify the other Party, specifying the impact upon the Budget and the reasons for
the change. The Project Manager, Plant Manager, or his designee will then discuss appropriate
changes to such Budget with the Owner’s Representative.
5.3.1.3 Failure to Agree. The Parties acknowledge that it is necessary that
Owner retain ultimate authority with respect to expenses incurred for operation of the Facility.
Accordingly, NAES will accept each Budget as finally determined by Owner. If Owner does not
authorize funds as requested by NAES, NAES will be relieved from providing the specific Services
that have not been funded, provided that NAES delivers a written report to Owner that describes
the reasons why NAES believes each disputed expense that NAES requested to be included in a
Budget (or any request for modifications to a Budget pursuant to Section 5.3.1.2) is prudent.
5.3.2 Notification of Variance. NAES will submit a monthly report to Owner
comparing the actual Operating Costs and Reimbursable Costs incurred during the current
Operating Year with the projected Operating Costs and Reimbursable Costs projected in each line
of the Budget. If, at any time during an Operating Year, NAES becomes aware that the
aggregate of all Operating Costs or Reimbursable Costs exceeds or will exceed the amount
provided in the applicable Budget or that the Facility is operating with any material deviations or
discrepancies from the projections contained in the applicable Plan, NAES will promptly so notify
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Exhibit B
Owner. NAES will make no expenditures that exceed a Budget unless Owner grants prior written
approval, except as otherwise permitted in response to an Emergency.
5.4 Availability of Operating Data and Records. NAES will make data prepared and
maintained by NAES available to Owner (i) pursuant to requirements in any Facility Agreement
or the Administrative Procedures Manual, or (ii) upon any request by Owner, on the Business Day
following such request.
5.5 Accounts and Reports. NAES will assist Owner in complying with Owner’s
reporting requirements with regard to Governmental Authorities or counterparties to Facility
Agreements, and will furnish or cause to be furnished to Owner certain reports regarding the
Services and the performance of the Facility as defined by Owner and NAES.
5.6 Notices. Upon obtaining actual knowledge thereof, each Party will submit prompt
written notice to the other Party of the following, to the extent relating to the Facility or the
Services:
(a) Litigation and Permit Lapses. (i) Any litigation, claims, disputes, or
actions filed in any way concerning the Facility, the Site, the Facility Agreements or the
Services; (ii) any actual refusal to grant, renew or extend, or any action filed with respect to the
granting, renewal or extension of, any Permit; (iii) all penalties or notices of violation issued by
any Governmental Authority; (iv) any dispute with any Governmental Authority that may have a
material adverse effect on the operation and maintenance of the Facility; and (v) with respect to
the matters identified in clauses (i), (ii), (iii) or (iv), any threats of such matters, which matters may
have a material adverse effect on the ownership, operation or maintenance of the Facility;
(b) Casualty. Any material damage or destruction to the Facility;
(c) Supplier Issues. The Parties shall promptly notify each other in the event
of any issues such as non-delivery or nonperformance of any suppliers;
(d) Unscheduled Outages. NAES will notify Owner verbally of any unscheduled
outage of all or any portion of the Facility as soon as is as reasonably possible (but in all cases
within two hours) following commencement of the outage. Within fifteen days following the
conclusion of such unscheduled outage, NAES will submit a report to Owner describing the cause
of the outage (if known), NAES’s response, and the measures, if any, undertaken by NAES to
prevent the outage’s recurrence; and,
(e) Community Complaints. The Parties shall promptly notify each other of
any complaint received by the surrounding community.
5.7 Scheduled Outage Plan. NAES shall prepare and deliver to Owner by no later
than first day of the fourth week of January a scheduled outage plan which sets forth the
anticipated Scheduled Outages for the entire or part of the Facility (“Scheduled Outage Plan”).
To the extent possible, Scheduled Outages shall be performed during non-peak seasons and
comply with PJM Rules.
5.8 Reporting to Governmental Authorities. Unless otherwise directed by Owner or
as set forth in Section 3.20, NAES shall prepare and file all reports with Governmental Authorities
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Exhibit B
as may be required in connection with the management, operation and maintenance of the Facility
and the provision of the Services, and shall provide drafts of each such report to Owner for Owner’s
review and comment, where possible, prior to filing and, in any event, contemporaneously with
such filing. Such reports shall be complete and accurate.
ARTICLE VI - LIMITATIONS ON AUTHORITY
6.1 General Limitations. NAES has no authority to make policies or decisions with
respect to the overall operation of the Facility as a commercial enterprise; such matters will be
determined by Owner. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary, unless
previously approved in a Budget and Plan or otherwise approved in writing by Owner, NAES will
not (and will not permit any of its agents or representatives to):
6.1.1 Disposition of Assets. Sell, lease, pledge, mortgage, encumber, convey, or
make any license, exchange or other transfer or disposition of the Facility, the Site or any other
property or assets of Owner, including any property or assets purchased by NAES, the cost of
which is an Operating Cost or a Reimbursable Cost;
6.1.2 Expenditures. Make any expenditure or acquire on an Operating Cost or a
Reimbursable Cost basis any goods or services from third parties, except in substantial
conformity with a Budget or as authorized by Owner, or consent or agree to do any of the
foregoing; provided, however, that in the event of an Emergency, NAES, without approval
from Owner, is authorized to take all reasonable actions to prevent or mitigate such threatened
damage, injury or loss in accordance with Section 3.13;
6.1.3 Other Actions. Take or agree to take any other action or actions that,
individually or in the aggregate, materially varies from the applicable Budget and Plan;
provided, however, that in the event of an Emergency, NAES, without approval from Owner, is
authorized to take all reasonable actions to prevent or mitigate such threatened damage, injury or
loss in accordance with Section 3.13;
6.1.4 Lawsuits and Settlements. Settle, compromise, assign, pledge, transfer,
release or consent to the compromise, assignment, pledge, transfer or release of, any claim, suit,
debt, demand or judgment against or due by Owner or NAES, the cost of which, in the case of
NAES, would be an Operating Cost or a Reimbursable Cost hereunder, or submit any such claim,
dispute or controversy to arbitration or judicial process, or stipulate in respect thereof to a
judgment, or consent to the same; or
6.1.5 Prohibited Transactions. Engage in any other transaction on behalf of
Owner not permitted under this Agreement.
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Exhibit B
ARTICLE VII - COMPENSATION AND PAYMENT
7.1 General. As compensation to NAES for the performance of the Services hereunder,
Owner will pay NAES, in the manner and at the times specified in this Article 7, all Reimbursable
Costs, Operating Costs and the Management Fee, as applicable, all as further described below.
7.2 Reimbursable Costs. Subject to the applicable Budget, Owner will reimburse NAES
for the following costs incurred by NAES in performing the Services (the "Reimbursable Costs"):
(i) reasonable relocation and recruitment expenses for NAES's Site Personnel; (ii) costs incurred
in response to an Emergency; (iii) gross receipts taxes; (iv) insurance maintained by NAES in
accordance with Section 9.1, (v) training of Site Personnel to improve operator skills, Facility
performance, PJM compliance, and safety conducted on-Site or off-Site and associated travel and
living expenses; (vi) third party advisors, consultants, attorneys, accountants and contractors
providing work in support of the Services that cannot reasonably be performed by Site Personnel;
(vii) Permit fees for Permits required for NAES or Site Personnel to perform Services; (viii) labor
relations activities; (ix) Site Personnel wages, salaries, overtime, customary or required severance
payments, unemployment and disability insurance, payroll taxes imposed on wages and benefits,
worker's compensation costs and holidays, vacations, group medical, dental and life insurance,
defined contribution plans and other employee benefits; (x) time and expenses of NAES’s Home
Office Personnel when providing the services described in Appendix A, Part III (“Extra Work”) at
the applicable rates set forth in Appendix F; and (xi) any other reasonable cost designated by the
Parties as a Reimbursable Cost that is approved in a Budget pursuant to the terms of this
Agreement. In no event shall NAES add any mark-up to the Reimbursable Costs.
On or before the tenth (10th) Business Day of each month, NAES will invoice Owner for
Reimbursable Costs. All Reimbursable Costs shall be invoiced in arrears except for those defined
in Section 7.2(ix), which shall be paid by Owner to NAES in advance of NAES’s payments to Site
Personnel. The invoice will be supported by receipts or other appropriate documentation. Owner
will make payment to NAES of the invoiced amount no later than the Due Date.
7.3 Operating Costs.
7.3.1 Definition. "Operating Costs" include the following: (i) equipment, material,
supplies, consumables, spare parts, replacement components, tools, office equipment and supplies
and utilities used at the Facility Site; and (ii) any other purchase that NAES makes in accordance
with Section 3.2 of this Agreement and that is approved in a Budget pursuant to the terms of this
Agreement.
7.3.2 Payment Process. NAES shall receive, review, and confirm vendor invoices,
then transmit them to Owner for direct payment by Owner to vendor. NAES shall transmit such
invoices in a timely manner sufficient to enable Owner to make such payments when due. Owner
shall permit NAES’s Site Personnel limited access into Owner’s accounting system ( H T E ) or
provide NAES with accounts of payments made, sufficient to support NAES’s ability to
manage the budget for the Facility and to conduct budget variance analysis.
7.4 Disputes. Should Owner contest the validity, reasonableness or accuracy of any
NAES invoice, Owner shall notify NAES in writing within ten days after receipt of such invoice,
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Exhibit B
explaining in detail the reasons for its contest. If Owner disputes only part of a statement
submitted to it for payment, then it shall pay to NAES the undisputed portion of such statement
in accordance with Sections 7.2 and 7.3.2 and notify NAES in writing of the amount disputed in
accordance with Section 14.7. All such disputes shall be resolved pursuant to Section 14.7.
7.5 Cost Audit. No payment made pursuant to the foregoing provisions shall be
considered as approval or acceptance of an invoice, and Owner shall remain entitled to conduct
a subsequent audit and review of NAES's records with respect to all Reimbursable Costs
together with any supporting documentation for a period of two (2) years from and after the date
of the applicable payment. If, pursuant to such audit and review, it is agreed that any amount
previously paid by NAES was not properly incurred as a Reimbursable Cost, NAES will credit
such amount to Owner in the next subsequent invoice.
7.6 Management Fee. As compensation to NAES for the performance of the
Operational Phase Services, Owner shall pay to NAES the Management Fee, which shall
include the routine Home Office Personnel services described in Appendix A, Part II. The
Management Fee shall be paid in monthly installments of one-twelfth (1/12) of such fee. On or
before the tenth (10th) Business Day of each month following the Effective Date, NAES shall
submit monthly invoices to Owner for payment of the Management Fee. Owner shall pay the
Management Fee no later than the Due Date for the applicable invoice. In the event that any of
the units located in the Facility other than Units 1 and 2 are declared to be no longer commercially
operational after 2018, the Parties will negotiate in good faith a reduction in the Management Fee
to reflect the reduced level of Services.
7.7 Performance Adjustment. During each Operating Year, th e Management Fee is
subject to adjustment if NAES fails to meet the performance goals for the Facility defined in
Appendix B. NAES will submit its calculation of the Performance Adjustment, if any, to Owner
no later than February 1 following the Operating Year for which the payment is calculated together
with a statement showing the change in the amount due to be paid in the March invoice.
7.8 Late Payment. To the extent Owner or NAES fails to pay any amount required to
be paid under this Agreement by the Due Date, the unpaid amount will accrue interest each day
at the Late Payment Rate from the Due Date until such amount (plus accrued interest) is paid in
full.
ARTICLE VIII - TERM
8.1 Term. This Agreement is effective on the Effective Date and continues in effect
through June 30, 2020 (the “Expiration Date”). The period beginning on the Effective Date and
ending on the Expiration Date is the Initial Term. The Initial Term shall extend in increments
of additional one year terms (each an “Extended Term”) until a Party notifies the other Party in
writing no later than (i) in the case of notice from NAES to Owner, twelve (12) months prior to
the Expiration Date (or the end of an Extended Term, as the case may be); or (ii) in the case of
notice from Owner to NAES, six (6) months prior to the Expiration Date (or the end of an Extended
Term, as the case may be), that this Agreement will not be extended.
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Exhibit B
8.2 Termination by Owner. Owner is permitted to terminate this Agreement if any of
the following events occur: (i) Bankruptcy of NAES, (ii) payment default by NAES (other than a
disputed payment) that is not cured within ten (10) days after NAES has received notice of such
default, (iii) default by NAES in performance of its obligations under this Agreement that has a
material effect on operation of the Facility, provided, however, that NAES has up to sixty (60)
days after notice to cure the default or make substantial progress (in the reasonable opinion of
Owner) towards curing the default (but in no event to exceed ninety (90) days) or (iv) NAES incurs
the maximum liability under Section 11.2.2 for two (2) consecutive Operating Years. Within
thirty (30) days after the date of termination, Owner will pay NAES for Services rendered by
NAES through the termination date, including all Reimbursable Costs, and the Management
Fee, as applicable, and the Bonus, if any, earned through the date of termination but not paid
(collectively, all such amounts due NAES upon any termination are the “Termination Payment”).
8.3 Termination by NAES. NAES is permitted to terminate this Agreement if any
of the following events occur: (i) payment default by Owner (other than a disputed payment) that
is not cured within ten (10) days after the Due Date for any invoice, or otherwise within thirty
(30) days after due hereunder; provided, however, that Owner has received notice of such default,
(ii) Bankruptcy of Owner, (iii) a sale or transfer of the Facility (other than any sale- leaseback
transaction undertaken as part of Owner's procurement of financing or the sale of the Facility to
any Affiliate of Owner or any other Person that, in either case, (x) has comparable creditworthiness
to Owner and (y) agrees in writing to be bound by all of the terms and provisions hereof
for the express benefit of NAES), or (iv) default by Owner of any other obligation under this
Agreement that has a material effect on NAES’s ability to perform the Services; provided,
however, that Owner shall have up to sixty (60) days to cure or make substantial progress (in the
reasonable opinion of NAES) towards curing such other default. In the event of a termination by
NAES under this Section 8.3, Owner shall pay to NAES the Termination Payment.
8.4 Transfer of Facility Custody. Upon expiration or termination of this Agreement,
NAES will leave all Facility documents and records, tools, supplies, spare parts, safety equipment,
O&M Manuals, and any other items furnished on an Operating Cost or a Reimbursable Cost basis
at the Facility, all of which will remain the property of Owner without additional charge. NAES
will execute all documents and take all other reasonable steps as may be reasonably requested
by Owner to assign to and vest in Owner all rights, benefits, interests and title in connection
with third party contracts, if any, NAES executed in its own name for the benefit of the Facility;
provided, however, that Owner assumes all liabilities arising under such contracts after the date of
assignment.
8.5 Services Upon Termination. Upon notice of termination of this Agreement by
either NAES or Owner, provided that Owner has not defaulted on any payment obligations of this
Agreement, Owner has the right to specify a period of transition (the “Termination Transition
Period”) during which NAES will (i) continue to operate the Facility in accordance with this
Agreement, (ii) cooperate with Owner in planning and implementing a transition to any
replacement NAES, and (iii) use its reasonable efforts to minimize disruption of Facility operations
in connection with such activities. Owner will compensate NAES in accordance with this
Agreement during the Termination Transition Period. NAES will permit the new operator to hire
or to contract with the non-managerial Site Personnel that the new operator desires to retain at the
Facility. To facilitate employee transfer, NAES will permit the new operator to interview non-
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Exhibit B
managerial Site Personnel in a manner and at times that do not interfere with NAES’s
responsibility to perform the Services.
ARTICLE IX - INSURANCE
9.1 NAES Insurance. NAES will maintain throughout the Term the insurance set
forth below:
9.1.1 Workers Compensation. Workers compensation insurance covering NAES's
employees as required by Applicable Law and employer’s liability insurance with a limit of
$1,000,000 per occurrence/annual aggregate.
9.1.2 Automobile Liability. Automobile bodily injury, including coverage for
automobiles owned or hired by NAES with limits of not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence.
9.1.3 Commercial General Liability. Commercial general liability insurance
with limits of not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence/annual aggregate.
9.1.4 Excess Coverage. Excess liability insurance covering liability in excess of
the insurance described in Sections 9.1.1 (employers liability), 9.1.2 and 9.1.3. The policy will
have a limit of $35,000,000 per occurrence/annual aggregate.
9.2 Owner Insurance. Owner will, prior to the date that notice to proceed is issued,
and throughout the Term hereof, secure and pay for and maintain or will cause to be secured and
maintained in effect during the operation of the Facility the following insurance:
9.2.1 Property. Property insurance, including boiler and machinery insurance,
and business interruption insurance, in amounts determined in Owner’s sole discretion.
9.2.2 Workers Compensation. Workers Compensation insurance covering
Owner's employees as required by law and employer’s liability insurance with a limit of
$1,000,000 per occurrence/annual aggregate.
9.2.3 Commercial General Liability. Commercial general liability insurance
with limits of not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence/annual aggregate.
9.2.4 Automobile Insurance. Automobile liability insurance covering
automobiles owned or hired by Owner with limits of $1,000,000 per occurrence, and
collision/comprehensive coverage in amounts deemed appropriate by Owner.
9.2.5 Additional Coverage. Umbrella or excess liability insurance in excess of
the insurance described in Sections 9.2.2(employer’s liability), 9.2.3 and 9.2.4 will be
carried with limits determined in Owner’s sole discretion.
9.3 Waiver of Subrogation; Additional Insured. Owner agrees to waive any rights of
subrogation of its insurers against NAES and its Affiliates together with their respective officers,
directors, Affiliates and employees and each such Person will be an additional insured with respect
to all liability policies procured by Owner pursuant to this Agreement (other than workers
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Exhibit B
compensation policies). NAES agrees to waive any rights of subrogation of its insurers against
Owner and Lenders together with their respective officers, directors, Affiliates and employees and
each such Person will be an additional insured with respect to all liability policies procured by
NAES pursuant to this Agreement (other than workers compensation policies). For the avoidance
of doubt, the Parties intend that each Party will have the maximum protection available to that
Party from the insurance policies owned by the other Party.
9.4 Form and Content. All insurance policies with respect to insurance maintained by
either Owner or NAES pursuant to this Article IX will:
9.4.1 Insurer Rating. Be placed with insurance companies that have a Best’s
rating of at least A-VII or with companies that are otherwise reasonably acceptable to Lenders,
Owner and NAES;
9.4.2 Claims-Made F o r m . If written on a claims made policy form, be
maintained with a retroactive date that is prior to the Effective Date for a period of at least two
(2) years following the last Operating Year in which such policy provides coverage under the terms
of this Agreement;
9.4.3 Primary Coverage. State that such policy (other than an excess policy) is
primary with respect to any other insurance coverage available to Owner or NAES or any
additional insured, and that all provisions, except the policy limits, will operate in the same manner
as if there were a separate policy covering such insured under each such policy;
9.4.4 Non-Recourse Premiums. Grant no recourse for payment of any premium
against NAES or any additional insured for insurance required to be furnished by Owner pursuant
to Section 9.2 and no recourse for payment of any premium against Owner or any additional
insured for insurance required to be furnished by NAES pursuant to Section 9.1; and
9.4.5 Cancellation Notice. Provide that the insurer give ninety (90) days prior
written notice of cancellation of such policies unless cancellation is for non-payment of
premiums, in which case a minimum of ten (10) days’ notice must be provided.
9.5 Certificates. Each Party will furnish the other Party with certificates evidencing
that the required insurance is in effect.
9.6 Deductibles. Each Party is liable for the payment of all deductibles on insurance
policies obtained by such Party pursuant to this Agreement, and, in the event of a claim under a
policy described in Section 9.1 or 9.2, each Party will look solely to its policies for
compensation. Owner will approve the deductibles under all policies provided by NAES under
Section 9.1.
ARTICLE X - INDEMNIFICATION
10.1 NAES Indemnification. NAES will indemnify and hold harmless Owner and its
Affiliates, and their respective officers, directors, employees, agents and representatives (the
“Owner Indemnitees”) from and against, and no Owner Indemnitee will be responsible
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Exhibit B
hereunder for, any and all claims, assertions, demands, suits, damages, judgments, losses,
obligations, liabilities, actions and causes of action, fees (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and
disbursements), costs (including court costs), expenses, investigations, inquiries, administrative
proceedings, penalties, fines and sanctions (collectively, “Liabilities”) sustained or suffered by any
Owner Indemnitee in connection with injury or death to third parties or loss of or damage to the
property of third parties, to the extent caused by NAES’s negligent acts or omissions, willful
misconduct, violation of any Applicable Law or breach of any representation, warranty or covenant
in this Agreement. Any Liabilities paid by NAES pursuant to its indemnity obligation under
this Section 10.1 are not Reimbursable Costs.
10.2 Owner Indemnification. Owner will indemnify and hold harmless NAES and its
Affiliates, and their respective officers, directors, employees, agents and representatives (the
“NAES Indemnitees”), from and against, and no NAES Indemnitee will have responsibility
hereunder for, any and all Liabilities sustained or suffered by any NAES Indemnitee in connection
with injury or death to third parties or loss of or damage to property of third parties, to the extent
caused by Owner’s negligent acts or omissions, willful misconduct, violation of any Applicable
Law or breach of any representation, warranty or covenant in this Agreement.
10.3 Violations of Applicable Law. NAES shall be responsible for the cost and
payment of all fines and penalties assessed against Owner or the Facilities that result from NAES’s
operation of the Facilities or performance of Services in violation of any Permits or Applicable
Law except (i) for opacity violations under the air Permit not caused by operator error, or
inadequate maintenance, (ii) to the extent such fines and penalties levied against Owner or the
Facilities result from NAES’s compliance with a written instruction or direction from Owner.
NAES hereby irrevocably indemnifies, and agrees to defend and hold harmless, Owner, its
employees, agents and Affiliates from and against all claims, suits, actions, losses, liabilities and
damages, including all fines, costs, expenses, and attorneys' fees arising from or related to any
failure of NAES to comply with any Permit or Applicable Law (other than with respect to the
exceptions set forth above).
ARTICLE XI - LIABILITIES OF THE PARTIES
11.1 Limitations of Liability. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the
contrary, neither the Parties nor any of their respective members or shareholders, officers,
directors, agents, representatives or employees are liable for consequential or indirect loss or
damage, including loss of profit, cost of capital, loss of goodwill, increased operating costs or
any special or incidental damages. The Parties further agree that the waivers and disclaimers of
liability, indemnities, releases from liability and limitations of liability expressed in this Agreement
will survive termination or expiration of this Agreement, and apply in all circumstances, whether
in contract, equity, tort or otherwise, regardless of the fault, negligence (in whole or in part),
strict liability, breach of contract or breach of warranty of the Party indemnified, released or whose
liabilities are limited, and shall extend to the partners, principals, directors, officers and
employees, agents and Affiliates of such Party, and the partners, principals, directors, officers,
and employees of such Affiliates.
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Exhibit B
11.2 NAES's Total Aggregate Liability. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this
Agreement, the total aggregate liability of NAES to Owner for all Liabilities arising out of any
events occurring or claims made in connection with the performance of the Services under this
Agreement in any Operating Year, is Four Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($450,000), provided,
however, that this limitation does not apply to any third party indemnity obligation of NAES arising
under Section 10.1. This limitation applies to indemnity obligations arising under Section
10.3 provided that the payment of a claim under a policy purchased by NAES pursuant to
Section 9.1 shall not be counted toward computing NAES’s total aggregate liability for the
Operating Year. It is expressly understood and agreed that (i) the aggregate liability limitation
expressed in this Section 11.2 is separate from, and is not to be construed as limiting, the limits of
insurance and coverage described in Article IX. Any deductible amounts paid in any Operating
Year by NAES under Section 9.6, or under the insurance policies NAES is required to maintain in
Section 9.1, count toward computing NAES’s total aggregate liability for such Operating Year.
11.3 No Warranties or Guarantees. EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED IN THIS
AGREEMENT, NEITHER PARTY MAKES ANY WARRANTIES OR GUARANTEES TO
THE OTHER, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WITH RESPECT TO THE SUBJECT
MATTER OF THIS AGREEMENT, AND BOTH PARTIES DISCLAIM AND WAIVE ANY
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR WARRANTIES IMPOSED BY LAW, INCLUDING
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
11.4 Exclusive Remedies. The remedies under this Agreement in respect of or in
consequence of (i) any breach of contract, (ii) any negligent act or omission, (iii) death or
personal injury, or (iv) loss of or damage to any property, are to the exclusion of any other
remedy that either Party may have against the other under Applicable Law or otherwise.
ARTICLE XII - CONFIDENTIALITY
12. 1 General. During the Term, and for three (3) years after the termination of this
Agreement, each Party will hold in confidence any Confidential Information supplied by the
other Party. The term “Confidential Information” means with respect to each Party, all written
or oral information of a proprietary, intellectual or similar nature, relating to a Party's business,
projects, operations, activities or affairs, whether of a technical or financial nature or otherwise
(including environmental assessment reports, financial information, business plans and
proposals, ideas, concepts, trade secrets, know-how, processes, pricing of services or products, and
other technical or business information, whether concerning this Agreement, each Party's
respective businesses or otherwise) that has not been publicly disclosed and that the receiving Party
acquires directly or indirectly from the disclosing Party. Each receiving Party further agrees, to
the extent requested by the disclosing Party, to require its contractors, vendors, suppliers and
employees, agents or prospective purchasers to enter into appropriate nondisclosure agreements
relative to any Confidential Information, prior to the receipt thereof; provided, however, that the
receiving Party may make necessary disclosures to third parties directly engaged in the operation,
ownership or financing of the Facility if such third parties agree to receive and hold such
Confidential Information in confidence. The Parties acknowledge that this Agreement is governed
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Exhibit B
by the Delaware Freedom of Information Act and that Confidential Information is subject to
being disclosed, unless specifically exempt from disclosure under such Act.
12.2 Exceptions. The provisions of this Article XII do not apply to information within
one or more of the following categories:
12.2.1 Public Domain. Information that was in the public domain prior to the
receiving Party’s receipt or that subsequently becomes part of the public domain by publication
or otherwise, except by the receiving Party’s wrongful act, or
12.2.2 Prior Receipt. Information that the receiving Party can demonstrate was
in its possession prior to receipt thereof from the disclosing Party, or
12.2.3 Third Party Delivery. Information received from a third party having no
obligation of secrecy with respect thereof.
12.3 Required Disclosure. Any receiving Party required by law, rule, regulation,
subpoena or order, or in the course of administrative or judicial proceedings, to disclose
Confidential Information that is otherwise required to be maintained in confidence pursuant to
this Article XII, may make disclosure notwithstanding the provisions of this Article XII;
provided, however, that the receiving Party, immediately upon learning of the requirement, notifies
the disclosing Party of the requirement and the terms thereof and cooperates to the maximum extent
practicable to minimize the disclosure of Confidential Information. Any receiving Party
disclosing Confidential Information pursuant to this Section 12.3 must use reasonable efforts,
at the disclosing Party's cost, to obtain proprietary or confidential treatment of Confidential
Information by the third party to whom the information will be disclosed, and to the extent such
remedies are available, must use reasonable efforts to seek protective orders limiting the
dissemination and use of Confidential Information. Moreover, this Agreement does not alter the
rights of any Party to object to the rule, regulation, order or proceedings requiring the disclosure.
ARTICLE XIII - TITLE, DOCUMENTS AND DATA
13.1 Materials and Equipment. Title to all materials, equipment, supplies,
consumables, spare parts and other items purchased or obtained by NAES on an Operating
Cost or Reimbursable Cost basis passes directly from the vendor or supplier thereof to, and vests
in, Owner. NAES has no title or other claim to such items; provided, however, that transfer of title
in no way affects NAES's obligations set forth in this Agreement.
13.2 Documents. All O&M Manuals, operational data, Facility drawings, NAES
reports and Operating Account records (including, for all documents, both paper and electronic
records) prepared or developed by NAES’s Site Personnel in connection with performance of the
Services become the property of Owner when prepared. All such documents, together with any
materials and documents furnished to NAES by Owner, will remain at the Facility upon expiration
or termination of this Agreement; provided, however, that NAES may retain for its records copies
of documents prepared by NAES.
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Exhibit B
13.3 Proprietary Information. Where materials or documents prepared or developed by
NAES or its Affiliates, or their respective employees, representatives or contractors, contain
proprietary or technical information, systems, techniques or know-how previously developed by
them or acquired by them from third parties (“NAES Proprietary Information”), NAES retains the
unrestricted and irrevocable right to use or dispose of such NAES Proprietary Information as NAES
deems fit; provided, however, that Owner has an irrevocable license to use such NAES Proprietary
Information to the extent necessary for Owner’s operation or maintenance of the Facility at no
additional cost to Owner.
ARTICLE XIV - MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
14.1 Assignment. This Agreement is not assignable by a Party without the prior
written consent of the other Party, which consent will not be unreasonably withheld, except that
this Agreement may be collaterally assigned by Owner without such consent to Lender in
connection with Lender's financing of the Facility, and may be assigned by any Party to such
Party’s Affiliates; provided, however, that any assignment pursuant to this Section 14.1 will not
relieve the assigning Party of any of its obligations under this Agreement that arose prior to the
date of such assignment. NAES agrees to negotiate in good faith any consent to assignment and
such other reasonable documents in connection with an assignment to Lender as Lender may
request, provided, however, that all of NAES’s costs in connection therewith shall be Reimbursable
Costs hereunder (including the fees and disbursements of NAES’s attorneys). This Agreement
will be binding upon and will inure to the benefit of the successors and permitted assigns
of the Parties.
14.2 [Reserved]
14.3 Access.
14.3.1 Owner’s Access. Owner and Lenders and their agents and representatives
will have access to the Facility, all Facility operations and any documents, materials and records
and accounts relating to the Facility operations for purposes of inspection and review. Upon the
reasonable request of Owner, and its agents and representatives, NAES will provide such
Persons with access to all operating data and operating logs maintained at the Facility.
14.3.2 Compliance with NAES’s Procedures. During any inspection or review of
the Facility pursuant to Section 14.3.1, Owner and Lenders and their agents and
representatives must comply with all of NAES's safety and security procedures and conduct
inspections and reviews in such a manner as to cause minimum interference with NAES's activities.
NAES also will cooperate with Owner in allowing other visitors access to the Facility.
14.4 Subcontractors. Subcontracting of the Services will not relieve NAES of its
duties, liabilities or obligations to Owner. Owner has the right, in its sole discretion, to approve
the retention of any subcontractors.
14.5 Not for Benefit of Third Parties. Except as otherwise expressly provided in
Sections 9.3 and 14.4 (with respect to the additional insured status of Persons) and Articles X,
XI, XII and XIII, and Section 14.1, this Agreement and each and every provision hereof are for the
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Exhibit B
exclusive benefit of the Parties that executed this Agreement and not for the benefit of any third
party.
14.6 Force Majeure.
14.6.1 Events Constituting Force Majeure. A “Force Majeure Event” is any
event that (a) restricts or prevents performance under this Agreement, (b) is not reasonably
within the control of the Party affected or caused by the default or negligence of the affected
Party and (c) cannot be overcome or avoided by the exercise of due care. Force Majeure Events
include failure of a Party to perform due to drought, flood, earthquake, storm, fire, lightning,
epidemic, war, terrorism, acts of Governmental Authorities, civil disturbances, sabotage, work
stoppages (i.e., strikes), accident or curtailment of supply, unavailability of construction
materials or replacement equipment beyond the affected Party's control, inability to obtain and
maintain Permits from any Governmental Authority for the Facility, restraint by court order, and
changes in Applicable Law that affect performance under this Agreement. Except for the
obligation of each Party to make payments of amounts owed to the other Party, each Party is
excused from performance and will not be considered to be in default in respect to any obligation
if performance cannot occur due to a Force Majeure Event. Neither Party will be relieved of its
obligations under this Agreement solely because of increased costs or other adverse economic
consequences that may be incurred through the performance of such obligations.
14.6.2 Notice. If a Party's ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement
is affected by a Force Majeure Event, the Party claiming such inability must (i) promptly notify the
other Party of the Force Majeure Event and its cause and confirm the same in writing within five
(5) Business Days of its discovery, (ii) promptly supply such available information about the Force
Majeure Event and its cause as may be reasonably requested by the other Party and (iii) initiate
efforts to remove the cause of the Force Majeure Event or to lessen its effect. Strikes and lockouts
are Force Majeure Events and settlement thereof is wholly within the discretion of the Party whose
employees are on strike or locked out.
14.6.3 Scope. The suspension of performance arising from a Force Majeure
Event will be of no greater scope and no longer duration than that which is necessary. The
excused Party will use its reasonable efforts to remedy its inability to perform.
14.7 Dispute Resolution.
14.7.1 Any dispute concerning interpretation or clarification of this Agreement,
or the acceptable performance thereof by NAES (“Dispute”), shall be immediately submitted in
writing to Owner for resolution. All determinations, instructions, and clarifications of Owner shall
be final and conclusive, unless NAES files with Owner within 14 days after Owner notifies
Operator of any such determination, instruction, or clarification, a written protest, stating clearly
and in detail the basis thereof. Owner shall respond to such protest within 30 days of its receipt.
14.7.2 In the event that use of the procedures set forth in Section 14.7.1 does not
lead to satisfactory resolution of the Dispute, either Party may send a Notice of Dispute to the other
Party and request a conference for resolution of such dispute. Within three days after delivery
of such notice, each Party shall nominate a senior officer of its management to meet at the Facilities,
or at any other mutually agreed location, to resolve the dispute, which conference shall be convened
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Exhibit B
within ten days after exchange of such nominations unless the parties mutually agree to another
date. In the event the parties are unable to resolve the dispute through the procedures set forth
in this Section 14.7.2, either Party shall have the right to pursue the remedies in accordance
with the procedures set forth in Section 14.7.3.
14.7.3 Any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement or
the breach thereof, which cannot be resolved amicably, shall be settled by arbitration. This
agreement to arbitrate shall be specifically enforceable under the prevailing arbitration law. The
award of the arbitrators shall be final, and a judgment may be entered upon it by any court
having jurisdiction. A Party desiring to invoke this arbitration provision shall serve written
notice upon the other of its intention to do so. Within 15 days of the date of such notice, each
Party shall serve upon the other the name of one individual, knowledgeable in matters pertaining
to the performance of this Agreement and to the subject matter of the dispute to serve as an
arbitrator. If either Party fails to select an arbitrator and notify the other Party of that selection
within such 15 day period the other Party may request the American Arbitration Association to
select the arbitrator. The two arbitrators so selected shall select a third arbitrator within 15 days
after the selection of the two arbitrators or, if the two arbitrators cannot agree upon a third
arbitrator, the American Arbitration Association shall select the third arbitrator. The arbitration
shall be conducted in accordance with the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American
Arbitration Association then prevailing, and shall be conducted in Dover, Delaware, unless the
Parties agree otherwise. Discovery shall be made available in accordance with the procedures
set forth in the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, but to a degree limited by the arbitrators as they
deem appropriate to render the proceedings economical, efficient, expeditious and fair. Interest
at the Late Payment Rate shall be added to any monetary award for sums found to have been due
under this Agreement. Except as otherwise specified by the arbitrators each Party shall bear its
own costs of the arbitration.
14.7.4 During the pendency of any Dispute, the Parties will continue to perform
the obligations imposed upon them under this Agreement to the fullest extent possible, without
prejudice to their respective positions in dispute
14.8 Amendments. No amendments or modifications of this Agreement are valid
unless in writing and signed by duly authorized representatives of the Parties.
14.9 Survival. Notwithstanding any provisions to the contrary, the obligations set
forth in Articles VII (with respect to payments), X and XII, Sections 8.2 and 8.3 (with respect to
the obligation to pay the Termination Payment), Sections 14.7 and the limitations on liabilities
set forth in Article XI will survive, in full force, the expiration or termination of this Agreement.
14.10 No Waiver. No delay, waiver or omission by Owner or NAES to exercise any
right or power arising from any breach or default by Owner or NAES with respect to any of
the terms, provisions or covenants of this Agreement will be construed to be a waiver by Owner
or NAES of any subsequent breach or default of the same or other terms, provisions or covenants
on the part of Owner or NAES.
14.11 Notices. Any written notice required or permitted under this Agreement will be
deemed to have been duly given on the date of receipt, and will be either delivered personally to
the Party to whom notice is given, or mailed to the Party to whom notice is to be given, by email,
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Exhibit B
facsimile, courier service or first class registered or certified mail, return receipt requested,
postage prepaid, and addressed to the addressee at the address provided in Appendix D, or at the
most recent address specified by written notice given to the other Parties in the manner provided
in this Section 14.11.
14.12 Representations and Warranties. Each Party represents and warrants to the other
Party that, as of the date hereof:
14.12.1 Existence. It is duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the
state of its organization and has all requisite power and authority to own its property and assets and
conduct its business as presently conducted or proposed to be conducted under this Agreement.
14.12.2 Authority. It has the power and authority to execute and deliver this
Agreement, to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby and to perform its obligations
hereunder.
14.12.3 Validity. It has taken all necessary action to authorize its execution,
delivery and performance of this Agreement, and this Agreement constitutes the valid, legal and
binding obligation of such Party enforceable against it in accordance with its terms, except as such
enforcement may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, moratorium or similar laws affecting the
rights of creditors or by general equitable principles (whether considered in a proceeding in equity
or at law).
14.12.4 No Conflict. None of the execution or delivery of this Agreement, the
performance by such Party of its obligations in connection with the transactions contemplated
hereby, or the fulfillment of the terms and conditions hereof, conflicts with or violates any
provision of its constituting documents.
14.12.5 No Consent. No consent or approval (including any Permit that such
warranting Party is required to obtain) is required from any third party (including any
Governmental Authority) for either the valid execution and delivery of this Agreement, or the
performance by such Party of its obligations under this Agreement, except such as have been
duly obtained or will be obtained in the ordinary course of business.
14.12.6 No Breach. None of the execution or delivery of this Agreement, the
performance by such Party of its obligations in connection with the transactions contemplated
hereby, or the fulfillment of the terms and conditions hereof either conflicts with, violates or
results in a breach of, any Applicable Law currently in effect, or conflicts with, violates or
results in a breach of, or constitutes a default under or results in the imposition or creation of, any
lien or encumbrance under any agreement or instrument to which it is a party or by which it or any
of its properties or assets are bound.
14.12.7 No Material Claims. It is not a party to any legal, administrative,
arbitral or other proceeding, investigation or controversy pending or threatened that would
adversely affect such Party's ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement.
14.13 Additional Representation and Warranty by NAES. NAES further represents and
warrants to Owner, as of the date hereof, that it has substantial expertise and experience in the
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Exhibit B
operation and maintenance of power generation facilities and it is fully qualified to operate and
maintain the Facility in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.
14.14 Counterparts. The Parties may execute this Agreement in counterparts that, when
signed by each of the Parties, constitute one and the same instrument; and, thereafter, each
counterpart will be deemed an original instrument as against any Party who has signed it.
14.15 Governing Law. This Agreement is governed by and to be construed in accordance
with the laws of the State of Delaware, exclusive of the conflicts of laws provisions thereof.
14.16 Captions, Exhibits and Appendices. Titles or captions contained in this
Agreement are inserted only as a matter of convenience and for reference, and in no way define,
limit, extend, describe or otherwise affect the scope or meaning of this Agreement or the intent
of any provision hereof. All exhibits and appendices attached hereto are considered a part hereof
as though fully set forth herein.
14.17 Severability. If any provision of this Agreement, or the application of any such
provision to any Person or circumstance, is held invalid by any court or other forum of
competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this Agreement, or the application of such provision to
Persons or circumstances other than those as to which it is held invalid, will nevertheless remain
in full force and effect so long as the economic or legal substance of the transactions
contemplated hereby is not affected in a manner materially adverse to a Party. Upon any such
determination of invalidity, the Parties will negotiate in good faith to modify this Agreement so
as to effect the original intent of the Parties as closely as possible in an acceptable manner in
order that this Agreement is consummated as originally contemplated to the greatest extent
possible.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Agreement through their duly
authorized officers as of the date set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE, Owner
By:
Name: Scott D. Koenig
Title: City Manager
NAES CORPORATION
By:
Name: Robert E. Fishman
Title: President & CEO
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Exhibit B
APPENDIX A – SCOPE OF SERVICES
The Services include all activities reasonably necessary to accomplish the following tasks.
I. SITE PERSONNEL: OPERATIONAL PERIOD SERVICES
A. Routine Services
1. Consistent with Owner-approved Budget and Plan, provide Facility Services to
optimize electrical power generation and facility preservation.
2. Assign work to either Site Personnel or vendors as cost-effective and appropriate
based on guidance from Owner. Normally, Site Personnel conduct preventive
maintenance and actions requiring a high degree of Facility knowledge and vendors
perform tasks needing equipment or expertise that are not cost-effective to maintain
at the Facility (e.g., code welding, safety valve testing, specialized calibrations,
stack testing). Vendors also perform tasks that make sense to minimize outage time
and costs.
B. Program Implementation
1. Implement NAES programs, policies, and procedures developed and issued as part
of the Transition Period Services.
2. Implement Facility’s existing operations and maintenance procedures, chemistry
procedures, and environmental compliance processes, unless otherwise directed by
Owner.
3. In conjunction with Project Manager, implement NAES’s assessment program.
C. Routine, Preventive and Predictive Maintenance
1. Perform routine and preventive maintenance actions on all Facility systems and
equipment in accordance with vendor instructions and the Plan.
2. Service Checks. Conduct frequent visual equipment inspections and log significant
parameters such as pressures, temperatures, and flow rates. Trend and analyze this
information as appropriate.
3. Routine and Fixed Interval Maintenance. Using the CMMS database, identify all
preventive maintenance requirements. Schedule and assign routine maintenance
during Facility operation, planned outages, and forced or unscheduled outages
4. Perform predictive maintenance to identify potential equipment failures or oversee
performance by third parties, as appropriate in light of Owner-approved staffing
levels and capabilities of Site Personnel.
D. Major Maintenance and Repairs
1. In coordination with and support of the Facility Agreements and generation plan,
arrange for scheduled inspections and overhauls on major equipment.
2. Retain vendors on behalf of Owner for unscheduled major repairs as required;
manage and oversee all repairs and modifications.
E. Facility Outages
1. Develop and implement a five year outage schedule. Within the CMMS, identify all
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Exhibit B
maintenance that requires a Facility outage or equipment to be taken out of service.
2. To the extent consistent with Facility Agreements and Owner direction, manage all
Facility outages (planned, unscheduled, forced) to minimize outage duration, impact
on production and cost.
3. Develop and implement a detailed schedule to track all outage work and testing,
including corrective maintenance actions, vendor work and scheduled preventive
maintenance. Obtain Owner approval of the schedule. Conduct preparations to
support this plan, including ordering and receiving all required spare parts.
F. Facility Administration
1. Budgeting. Prepare annual Budgets and Plan and submit them for Owner approval.
Manage operations to comply with each Budget and Plan. Generate budget variance
reports, as required.
2. Payroll. Collect and review timesheets for accuracy. Enter timesheets into payroll
system and submit them to NAES Home Office Personnel for processing.
3. Procurement. Implement the procurement procedure to maintain an effective and
efficient purchasing system. Procure, as agent for Owner, all materials, equipment,
chemicals, supplies, services, parts, and other miscellaneous items required for the
provision of the Services. Contract using terms and conditions approved by Owner
in advance. Utilize the CMMS and H T E system, as appropriate, in all stages of
procurement.
4. Accounts Payable. Ensure all vendor invoices and Site Personnel expense
reimbursement forms have supporting documents and enter them into accounting
system. Make timely payments for all invoices that are not directly paid by Owner.
5. Inventory Control. Implement a cost-effective inventory control system designed to
ensure that spare parts, materials, and supplies are properly stored and accounted for
and that adequate supplies are available at all times to support the provision of the
Services.
6. Personnel Matters.
i. In coordination with Home Office Personnel and in compliance with NAES
human resources policies and procedures, execute required human resources
processes and address employee matters as they arise.
ii. In coordination with the Home Office Personnel, acquire and retain qualified
Site Personnel to maintain the staffing levels and skill mix required for
successful long-term provision of the Services.
7. Arrange for janitorial, garbage pickup, landscape services, snow removal (if
needed), extermination services, and maintain all access roads, office buildings, and
other structures in good repair at all times.
8. Reports. Prepare and submit to Owner operation and maintenance service reports as
requested relative to performance, maintenance and repair status, Facility operating
data, and any other information reasonably requested by Owner.
9. Environmental Data and Reporting. Collect Facility environmental data, including
required air and water/waste water monitoring data and permit compliance
information, and prepare draft environmental reports for Owner review. Submit
reports to appropriate Governmental Authority. Obtain professional environmental
support for environmental reports that are new, complex, non-routine (such as state
or federal requests or event-triggered reports), or beyond the capabilities of current
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Exhibit B
Site Personnel, as necessary to satisfy permit and regulatory reporting requirements.
10. Environmental Plans. Implement permit or regulatory required environmental
plans, such as spill prevention plans, Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans, CEMS
QA/QC plans, Greenhouse Gas Monitoring Plans or Accidental Release
Prevention/Risk Management Plans, as applicable. Obtain professional
environmental support for environmental plan development, modification, renewal
or implementation as necessary to satisfy permit and regulatory requirements.
11. Waste and Hazardous Materials. Manage hazardous materials and wastes on site in
accordance with applicable regulations. Coordinate waste disposal in accordance
with Agreement.
12. General Environmental Management. Review information, materials, programs and
tools provided by Home Office Personnel environmental group for applicability to
the site and implement, as applicable and required, requesting assistance as needed
to supplement Site Personnel experience and resources.
13. Security. Implement or arrange for implementation of security measures in
accordance with the Owner-approved Facility security plan.
14. Drawings/Manuals Maintenance. Maintain the Facility library and update Facility
manuals and vendor service manuals. Update (or arrange for updating) Facility
drawings to reflect changes to the as-built configuration. In addition to document
management, maintain physical Facility configuration control.
15. Community Relations. In coordination with the Owner, conduct a community
relations program to establish the Facility and its Site Personnel as “good citizens”
in the local community.
G. Training. Implement a continuing program of training designed to orient new Site
Personnel, refresh/cross-train existing Site Personnel, qualify/re-qualify Site Personnel, and
keep all Site Personnel aware of Owner-approved Facility safety requirements and
emergency procedures.
H. Assistance to Owner. Provide assistance to Owner, as reasonably requested with the
execution of Owner’s duties relative to operation of the Facility. This task includes such
activities as the preparation and coordination of warranty claims and Permit renewals,
interacting with Owner’s management and personnel, and interfacing with the local
community and authorities.
II. HOME OFFICE OPERATIONAL PERIOD SERVICES INCLUDED IN FEE
A. Monitoring of Regulatory Compliance
1. Safety
i. Monitoring regulatory developments in safety, and provision of periodic
updates to Site Personnel.
ii. Maintenance of safety statistics and communication of lessons learned.
iii. At least one annual NAES-initiated visit to the Facility to perform safety
assessment.
iv. Develop and make available to the Site Personnel standard tools, templates
and general safety guidance materials, such as training templates, guidance
on implementing programs and updated safety procedures.
2. Environmental
i. Develop and make available to the Site Personnel standard tools, templates
and general O&M guidance materials, such as management checklists for
A-3
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Exhibit B
federal programs, training templates for federal programs, and guidance on
implementing federal programs.
ii. Monitor regulatory developments in federal environmental law as it pertains
to power plant operations and compliance, and provide periodic updates to
Site Personnel.
iii. Conduct one annual NAES-initiated visit to the Facility to perform an
environmental program assessment, the scope of which is established by
NAES.
3. Reliability Compliance
i. Monitoring regulatory developments in reliability compliance, and provision
of periodic program updates and communications regarding these
compliance matters to Site Personnel.
B. Monitoring of Site Personnel and Facility Performance
1. Oversee Site Personnel training and qualification activities, by updating training
program as appropriate, overseeing its implementation, and coordinating for web-
based and other training mechanisms.
2. Quality assessment and management of Site Personnel performance and their
implementation of Facility programs.
3. Oversee program implementation by Site Personnel by implementing the assessment
manual in conjunction with the Plant Manager and by making NAES-initiated Site
visits.
4. Review reports prepared by Site Personnel.
5. Outage plan review and guidance.
6. Tracking of performance indicators and evaluating Facility performance against the
NAES fleet.
C. Human Resource Functions in Support of Site Personnel
1. Assist Site Personnel in employee management activities by performing the
following activities:
i. Recruiting candidates for employment and arranging interviews
ii. Preparing and extending offers of employment
iii. Administering of the pre-employment screening and relocation process
iv. Conducting Site Personnel employee orientation and benefits enrollment
v. Administering of pay and benefits policies and programs.
vi. Consulting regarding employee performance management, disciplinary
action and termination
vii. Participating in the Site Personnel complaint and problem resolution process
viii. Provision of responses to Site Personnel questions regarding human
resources
2. Developing, maintaining, and communicating human resource policies and
procedures.
3. Monitoring changes to employment regulations
D. Accounting, Procurement, and Insurance
1. Participate in annual Budget and Plan development process.
2. Perform payroll processing services, other than that performed by Site Personnel;
assistance to Site Personnel in usage of payroll software and responses to Site
Personnel payroll questions.
3. Site Personnel expense report processing
4. Review of NAES invoices for accuracy and validity
A-4
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Exhibit B
5. Facility participation in preferred vendor pricing initiative managed by Home Office
Personnel.
6. Provision of responses to Site Personnel questions regarding accounting (including
payroll and MAS support, if applicable), legal, CMMS, and procurement.
7. Administer worker’s compensation program; handle worker’s compensation claims.
8. Maintain and renew blanket NAES insurance policies as required under Section 9.1.
E. NAES Fleet Integration
1. Coordinate transmission of know-how/lessons learned among NAES facilities, via
email, webinars and regular conference calls among plant managers.
2. Development and coordination of O&M conferences, conference calls, and
webinars;
3. Maintenance of web-based NAES portal and incident and injury reporting program.
III. HOME OFFICE PERSONNEL SERVICES PERFORMED ON HOURLY RATE PLUS
EXPENSES BASIS
A. Advisable changes, updates or additions to Facility operation and maintenance manuals,
system descriptions, or drawings, including the following:
1. Safety consulting or audits of safety practices.
2. On-site outage support
3. On-site assistance for regulatory visits
4. Assistance with regulatory programs, such as VPP or STAR
5. On-site project safety support, requested by Owner
B. Input of Facility data into Facility information systems, including, but not limited to,
population and manipulation of CMMS data.
C. CMMS training
D. Non-routine human resources Home Office Personnel Services, including the following:
a. Negotiation and assumption of union labor contracts
b. Development and implementation of special benefit plans or arrangements,
including coordination with outside professional services
c. Labor arbitration case management
d. Union election activities and campaigns
e. Labor union consulting, bargaining and grievance procedures
f. Attendance at owner-requested Site Personnel transition meetings, development and
implementation of employee retention and severance plans, performance of Owner-
requested Site Personnel evaluations
E. Temporary fill-in for Site Personnel by Home Office Personnel
F. Obtain, maintain and renew insurance policies specific to the Facility or Site and required
of NAES under Section 9.1.
G. On-site Outage support
H. On-site Project Management support, as requested by Owner
I. Site Physical Inventory Support by Home Office Personnel
J. Legal Support to Facility operations necessitated by occurrences outside NAES’s control,
including, but not limited to, claims made against Owner in which NAES is not a party.
K. Environmental support for compiling and reviewing environmental reports and plans under
Appendix A, I (F)(9) and (10); customization and population of NAES standard tools and
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Exhibit B
templates; monitoring state environmental law and state regulatory tracking, analysis and
guidance; review, guidance and direct support on environmental projects and issues related
to operations; and general day-to-day compliance support.
L. Customized research and analysis
IV. NAES SERVICES PERFORMED AT NEGOTIATED RATES
A. Environmental consulting, auditing, permitting, developing customized training material or
delivering training, environmental plan development or modification (such as Spill
Prevention Control and Countermeasure Plans, Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans or
Risk Management Plans), specialized Continuous Emissions Monitoring consulting, legacy
or pre-existing issues support or Owner business support such as due diligence, asset sale,
or strategic regulatory or permitting analysis.
B. NERC consulting, NERC program licensing, audit preparation, audit support, or functional
registration with NERC on behalf of the Facility.
C. Engineering or other support for plant emergencies, operational events, capital projects or
other Facility improvement initiatives.
D. Direct placement and temporary staffing services performed by NAES’s staffing services
division.
E. Debit Card Account management services
F. Maintenance services performed by NAES subsidiaries or turbine services division.
G. CMMS consulting, including development or modification of processes and products
outside of the CMMS features available before the Effective Date, including customization
of the user interface or program functionality; development of customized reporting or
customized integration solutions.
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APPENDIX B – PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENT PROVISIONS
Exhibit B
City of Dover
Matrix for Calculating Section 7.7 Performance Adjustments
No Full
Factor Weight Measure Adjustment Adjustment Adjustment Methodology
less than 2% 10%
CU Calculation: CU={(FOU1+
Commercial EU1)*(17MW) + (FOU2+EU2)*(17MW)
35.00% Commercial Unavailability (CU)
Unavailabiity + FOU3+EU3)*(102MW) +
(FOU11+EU11)*(39MW)} / 8760 hours *
(175MW)
All tests The adjustment is weighted by size of
passed No tests passed the unit subject to the test.
Demonstrated PJM Dependable
Capacity 25.00% "Passed" means Plant Capabilities for
Capacity
all Dover units, Appendix C
98% 90%
Required Safety Training 98% 90% Equal weights
Complete
Safety Required NAES Housekeeping 98% 90%
15.00%
Performance Inspections 0 4
Required NAES Safety
Observations
Plant Manager meets with City
Operator keeps Owner Rep informed
Representative monthly and
Communications 5.00% Subjective Subjective monthly of plant issues
keeps Representative informed
Operator provides monthly updates in
of CIP budget changes
CIP budget changes
100.00%
Results that fall between No Adjustment and Full Adjustment will be calculated on a straight-line interpolation.
B-1
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Exhibit B
APPENDIX C - FACILITY DESCRIPTION AND SPECIFICATIONS
Thermal Energy Customer: NA
Public Utility: City of Dover Electric Utility
Gas Supplier: Chesapeake Utilities
Facility
Fuel Oil Site:
Supplier: Buttner
TBD Place, Dover, Delaware
Equipment: McKee Run Station Units 1 and 2 are Westinghouse
turbines/generators nameplate rated at 16 MW each supplied by
B&W boilers at 850 psi, 900 degree Fahrenheit boiler (1962),
scheduled for retirement on May 31, 2017; McKee Run Station
Unit 3 is a GE steam sealed D-1 configuration reheat unit with a
106.9 MW turbine generator supplied from a 1,800 psi, 1000
degree Fahrenheit boiler
(1975). All McKee Run units operate on #2 oil or natural gas.
VanSantRun
Plant Capabilities: McKee Unit 11
Unitsis 1a and
GE 2:
Frame
17 6
MWcombustion turbine
(summer & generator
winter) (to be
rated at 40 MW winter
retired by May 31, 2017; and 39 MW, and 46 MW winter.
fdddddddddired with #2 oil or natural gas (1991).
McKee Run Unit 3: 102 MW (summer & winter); VanSant Unit
11: 46 MW (summer and winter) in 2015 (to be corrected upon
completion testing and commissioning).
Points of Interconnection: Substation 1, 12.5 kV Bus number 1 (this is the 12.5 generator
bus for McKee Run Units 1 and 2); the 69 kV bushing
terminals of the generator step-up transformers for McKee
Run Unit 3 and VanSant Unit 11; the source side of 230 kV
motor operated disconnect switches AT1-H1 and AT2-H1.
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Exhibit B
APPENDIX D - NOTICES
To the Owner:
City Manager
15 Loockerman Plaza
Dover DE 19903
Fax: 302-736-7002
Telephone: 302-736-7005
With a copy to:
Director of Electric Utility
860 Buttner Place
Dover, DE 19904
Fax No.: 302-736-7081
Telephone: 302-736-7070
To NAES:
NAES Corporation
1180 NW Maple Street, Suite 200
Issaquah, Washington 98027
Attention: General Counsel
Fax No.: 425-270-6398
Telephone No: 425-961-4700
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Exhibit B
APPENDIX F – HOME OFFICE PERSONNEL RATES
The following hourly billing rates apply to Home Office Personnel time for Extra Work set forth in
Appendix A, Part III. These rates are valid through December 31, 2015. Rates for subsequent years will
be disclosed to Owner prior to becoming effective.
Extra Work Rate for
Home Office
POSITION
Personnel under
Section 7.2(x)
OPERATIONS
Sr. Vice President $ 341
Division Director $ 218
Director, Safety $ 187
Senior Proj. Mgr. $ 166
Project Mgr. II $ 149
Project Mgr. – Safety $ 149
Project Mgr. I $ 134
Project Engr. $ 122
TECHNICAL SERVICES
General Manager $ 228
Director, Environmental Services $ 187
Sr. Environmental Mgr. $ 166
Sr. Environmental Specialist $ 149
Environmental Specialist $ 134
Director, Engineering $ 187
Chief Engineer $ 180
Senior Engineer $ 163
Engineer II $ 149
Engineer I $ 134
CMMS Analyst $ 113
Sr. Operations Analyst $ 108
Operations Analyst $ 96
QA/QC
VP, QA $ 245
QA/QC Manager $ 146
QA/QC Consultant $ 160
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Exhibit B
ACCOUNTING
Sr. Finance Manager $ 166
Senior Accountant/Int’l Accountant $ 110
Accountant $ 91
HUMAN RESOURCES
VP, HR $ 262
Sr, Manager/Global HR $ 187
HR Employee Relations Mgr. $ 166
HR Mgr. $ 149
HR Specialist $ 91
HR Representative $ 79
MISC. SUPPORT
Senior Business Development
Manager $ 192
Marketing/Proposal Manager $ 134
Sr. Marketing Engineer $ 113
IS Mgr/Business Application Mgr $ 149
Sr. IS Support $ 113
IS Support $ 79
Mktg Engineer/Support Specialist $ 96
Technical Support Specialist $ 96
Administrative Assistant $ 72
F-2
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City of Dover Citizen Stormwater Survey
Summer 2015
Stormwater is runoff generated when rain and snowmelt events flow over land, structures or other
impervious surfaces and does not filter into the ground. Stormwater can have flooding and water quality
impacts to both private and public property.
The City of Dover wants to know more about your stormwater concerns. All citizens are invited to participate
in this short survey. The feedback from this survey will help us to better evaluate and address stormwater
issues in the city.
Please complete the survey and return it to Jason Lyon, Department of Public Works via mail, e-mail or fax:
P.O. Box 475
Dover, DE 19903
E: jlyon@dover.de.us
F: (302) 736-4217
1. What is your Zip Code? ______________
2. How would you characterize stormwater on your property as a concern? Check just one
☐ It is a non-issue ☐ A small concern ☐ A moderate concern ☐ A serious concern
3. How would you characterize your concern with stormwater? Check all that apply
☐ Stormwater flooding ☐ Stormwater quality ☐ It is a non-issue
4. Do you have any stormwater controls on your property? Check all the apply
☐ Sump Pump ☐ Rain Barrel ☐ Rain Garden ☐ Roof Drain
5. Does stormwater on certain Dover roads have an impact on you?
☐No ☐Yes
6. If yes to Question #5, please list which specific roads are impacted by stormwater:
________________________________________________________________________
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7. Is there another public area that is impacted by stormwater? Check all that apply
☐ Sidewalks ☐ Parking lots ☐ Parks ☐ Lake/River ☐ Other
List Other:_____________________________________
8. How would you characterize stormwater issues in Dover as a whole? Check just one
☐ A non-issue ☐ A small concern ☐ A moderate concern ☐ A serious concern
9. Do you have any concerns with stormwater drains, ditches, or outfalls being properly maintained in
your area?
☐ No ☐ Yes If yes, please describe concern below:
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
10. Do you have any further stormwater concerns or suggestions?
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
Optional Information:
Name: ___________________________________________
Email: ____________________________________________
Home and/or Business Address: _________________________________________
Years at this address:__________
Telephone:________________________________________