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REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular Council Meeting was held on June 22, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. with Council President Slavin
presiding. Council members present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Cole,
Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Hare, and Mr. Hutchison.
Council staff members present were Deputy Police Chief Mailey, Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Koenig,
Mrs. Townshend, Deputy Fire Chief Carey, City Solicitor Rodriguez, and Mrs. McDowell.
Mayor Christiansen was also present (departed at 7:54 p.m.).
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. Judy Diogo, Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce (CDCC), 435 North DuPont Highway,
stated that she was present to ask City Council to take another look at the budget, noting that
increases in property tax and electric were proposed. She indicated that the CDCC had collected
data from some of its members and, for one (1) of the larger corporations, it could add $120,000 in
a year on their expense side when electric and property taxes were put together. In factories, it could
be between $200,000 and $215,000 per year. One of their medium businesses, a hotel, would be
looking at $5,500 more for one (1) year with the property and the electric increase, and a small
business was looking at approximately $1,000.
Ms. Diogo stated her belief that all had worked really well together and had come a long way in
getting Dover on the short list for a lot of companies and corporations. She stated that she hated to
see Dover going backward instead of forward. Ms. Diog advised members that the CDCC stood
ready and willing to put together their budget focus group, as had been done in the past, and sit down
with the City and try to come up with a better picture, in particular for manufacturers who would
really be getting hurt by this electric increase. She requested that there be discussion this evening
about possibly removing the commercial increase from the budget.
Mr. Mike Bramble stated that he was representing Procter & Gamble, 1340 West North Street. He
stated that he would like to provide their feelings regarding the electric rate increase as just
mentioned. He informed members that they would see an increase of roughly $25,000 to $45,000
just from the electrical rate increase, which was troubling, even more so since they just had an
expansion during this last year and Procter & Gamble was in the midst of hiring between 30 and 50
people for that expansion. Mr. Bramble indicated that their company headquarters decides electrical
rates or goes into the puzzle of deciding what existing facility they are going to invest their capital
dollars in. He wanted to pass on that this really hurts, and expansion means jobs, which he felt
would help the City more than a tax increase.
Mr. Alan Geddis, 448 North State Street, thanked the originators and revisers of the City of Dover
budget for their work in paring it down to essentials and not kicking the can down the road. He
thanked Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager; Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer;
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development;
Mrs. Cheryl Bundek, Tax Assessor, and their staffs. Mr. Gaddis expressed his opinion that their
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 2
explanations during the five (5) Council budget meetings were thorough, to the point, and clear. He
also stated his thanks to those members of City Council who, by attending all five (5) meetings, put
forth much effort, input, suggestions, and consideration. They showed courage in presenting the
revised budget for Fiscal Year 2016 for a final vote. Mr. Gaddis that all had done their best for the
citizens of Dover.
Mr. George Gaudioso, 167 Maple Glen Drive, stated that common sense tells everyone that no one
likes their taxes raised and everyone realizes that it will have an impact on business. The question
had to be put as to the priority of what is important for the City. It is not easy to balance the needs
of the citizenry and the resources available to meet those needs. Mr. Gaudioso stated that no one,
including himself, wanted to see any of the businesses - big, medium, or small - impacted negatively;
however, somehow the City had to have the resources to meet the needs of its citizens. He remarked
that some people say they should cut, cut, cut, but they always want the cut to be made so that they
are not directly impacted, noting that Council has a difficult row to hoe. Mr. Gaudioso expressed
his belief that the City was in this set of circumstances not because of today but because of actions
taken in the past that did not address the financial needs of the City. He indicated that some people,
including his friends, got mad when he pointed out a couple of months ago that the only viable way
to balance the budget of the City of Dover was by having a tax increase because the City needs the
revenue to be financially viable, and this is not easy to balance. Mr. Gaudioso stated that many
people do not realize how much the Electric Fund has subsidized the running of the City, noting that
the plant is antiquated and needs upgrading, which will cost money. He expressed his hope that the
City would not look for short-term gain and in the end have long-term financial pain.
Ms. Sarah Herbert, 223 North Bradford Street, stated that she absolutely agreed with the gentleman
that spoke and also with Mr. Gaddis. She advised members that she had never attended budget
hearings before, thinking that they would be boring, but they were not. She felt that if more citizens
had come and heard how hard everybody was working to meet all the needs, including infrastructure,
public safety, etc., and if all of the commissioners and councilmen had come, they would be very
impressed with what had been done. Mrs. Herbert stated that she went home with a whole, new
attitude about making budgets, noting that it is a lot harder than doing her grocery list. She thought
that people need to understand that there were many things to balance, that they did an excellent job,
and she expressed her thanks.
Ms. Paula Kinsey, resident of 224 North State Street and owner of the Tea House at that location,
advised members that she was present to maybe offend some of the staff, but she agreed with what
the gentleman said. She stated that she did not know personally of anybody’s budget that does not
expand every year. Ms. Kinsey questioned what was being done to collect the hundreds of thousands
of dollars that had not been paid in taxes. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that the City was in the
process of trying to collect those monies, and those efforts would go up to and include the sale of
property. He explained that when a property is in arrears for taxes, electric, water, and sewer funds
for a certain amount of time, that property goes to a sheriff sale and the City collects the tax and
becomes the owner of the property. The City also has a clean hands ordinance, although it is not
easy to apply because of the number of customers. Mr. Koenig stated that the issue of back taxes
is common among a number of property owners in the City who feel it is not necessary to pay their
taxes on time. He stated that staff would continue to pursue that diligently going forward, up to and
including denial of service.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 3
Mrs. Kinsey stated that she also lives in Culpeper, Virginia, and in that municipality the names,
addresses, and amounts owed by such property owners are listed in the paper. She thought that this
might be helpful as the embarrassment might help someone to decide to pay their taxes. She felt that
this was an urgent matter that needed to be pushed.
Ms. Jean Dowding, realtor, veteran educator, and citizen of the City, stated that she was speaking
not just for herself but for the hundreds of Realtors who work in Dover and Kent County, for the
buyers who need to buy homes, for the sellers who are selling their homes, and for the folk who are
dealing with the challenges of a very slowly recovering economy. She asked members to think hard
tonight and first do no harm. Ms. Dowding asked, looking at utility rates, transfer taxes, and City
of Dover taxes, where breaks were being given to first-time home buyers, that members recognize
that some of the budget issues being discussed were critical and make up a tremendous amount of
those particular buyers' closing costs. In addition, she stated that all of the small business owners,
including plumbers, electricians, and home inspectors are involved in this process, and real estate
broker/owners are working with another whole group of realtors. Ms. Dowding explained that when
one (1) person buys a home in Dover, this household will easily put $50,000 back into the economy.
She thanked members for their attention and for finding new ways to be creative. She indicated that
she knew what it meant to do budgets for large and small corporations and for one (1) person or
10-person businesses.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Ms. Dowding stated that she was against the utility hike as it stood at
present.
Mr. Neil questioned if she was aware that the rates for residential customers are one (1) of the lowest
in the State. Ms. Dowding indicated that she was.
Mr. Neil questioned if Mrs. Dowding was aware that a lot of the increase in the budget was due to
the fact that the City has 10 additional policeman and nine (9) cadets. He asked if Ms. Dowding
thought that homebuyers would feel safer if the City had these employees, or if she would prefer to
cut them in order to cut the budget. Responding, Ms. Dowding agreed that this was critical, having
security in the community was important, and it had to be done. She questioned, as constraints are
tightened, if other things could be done. For example, she felt that the break on transfer tax for a
first-time home buyer in the City of Dover was a good thing.
Mr. Neil stated that the figures presented in the newspaper were actually incorrect because it is a
revenue neutral budget. He explained that if everything stayed the same, the amount of money that
was collected would be the same and not an addition; however, there were additional things being
considered, like the police and a contractual 16.2% increase in health care costs. Ms. Dowding
responded that she did not disagree with this; however, she stated that not just residences but small
businesses would be impacted as things stood currently. She asked that members first do no harm,
stating that she did not have all the answers, which may not even be found at this time, in this room,
or in this place. She recognized the challenge involved.
Mr. Slavin expressed appreciation to the speakers for their time.
The invocation was given by Reverend Henderson, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 4
Mr. Slavin requested members to join in a moment of silence in sympathy for the family of
Mr. William Pepper, Deputy City Solicitor, in the recent loss of his wife.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Hutchison moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and unanimously
carried.
Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Consent Agenda, seconded by Mr. Hutchison and carried
by a unanimous roll call vote.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 8, 2015
The minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of June 8, 2015 were unanimously approved by motion
of Mr. Neil, seconded by Mr. Hutchison and bore the written approval of Mayor Christiansen.
CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION - YOUNG’S STUDIO
The City Clerk read the following Certificate of Recognition into the record:
WHEREAS, Young’s Studio of Photography was founded by Ross and Lois Young on
Loockerman Street in Dover on August 10, 1953 and has been a fixture in the downtown Dover area
ever since. Their son, Eric Young, joined the family enterprise in 1988 and continued to work in the
Studio with his mother following the passing of his father in 2014; and
WHEREAS, after nearly 62 years of continuous operation in Dover, Young’s Studio of
Photography closed its doors on June 15, 2015; and
WHEREAS, the Youngs took the time and effort to get to know their customers and their
specific needs. They spent decades refining their craft and enhancing their skills to provide a full
range of traditional and digital photography, using professional developing and processing
techniques to ensure a quality product. The fruits of the Youngs’ efforts will live on in the countless
photos that grace the homes of the grateful patrons whose memories they captured.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER,
DELAWARE, do hereby present this Certificate of Recognition to
Young’s Studio of Photography
in acknowledgment of their significant contributions to the community
and extend their best wishes to Eric and Lois Young
in all future endeavors.
June 22, 2015
On behalf of the Mayor and Council, Mayor Christiansen presented the certificate to Mr. Eric Young
and Mrs. Lois Young. He thanked them for their efforts and for recording the history of the City of
Dover and being part of all of its families for 62 years.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 5
Mrs. Young advised members that it had been a great 62 years, stating her wish that they had more
time but noting that things were not the way they used to be in business or in their lives. She
expressed appreciation for the recognition, stating that everyone was in their hearts and noted that
they would still be in Dover but not on Loockerman Street.
Mr. Young stated that the recognition was heartwarming and he thanked everyone for being so
supportive, including the City of Dover. He especially thanked his father and mother who embarked
on this business in 1953, noting that he was blessed to have joined them 22 years after that.
CERTIFICATE OF CONGRATULATIONS - DOVER HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TRACK
AND FIELD TEAM
The Clerk read the following Certificate into the record:
Certificate of Congratulations
presented to
The Dover High School Boys Track and Field Team
for its outstanding performance during the 2015 season, finishing the Henlopen Conference with 13
wins and no losses, winning the Delaware State Invitational, placing second in the Keith Burgess
Invitational and third in the Bishop McNamara Invitational, and capturing the Henlopen Meet and
Division 1 State Championships.
Christian Adkins Breon Dennis Jeremy Lepore Amir Ross
Jaden Adkins Nyjal Drayton Devin Locklin Rasaki Salawe
Cameron Allison Nicholas Glover Riley Maldonado Sean Saxton
Dion Baker John Goldman Xavier Marion Adam Spencer
Dorian Baker Devin Hagaman Antwaun Matthews Clarence Spencer
Marcus Batson Naquone Harris-Dukes Jordan McCullough Dorion Sudler
Karim Beatty Deontray Hickman Antoine McDonald Brandon Walker
Khari Bonelli Jemir Hunter Tre’Vonne Moore Jonathan Waters
Jason Brittingham Temple Jefferson Chidi Nwogbaga Alshawn Wheeler
Marshal Capinpin Aaron Johnson Raphael Okonkwo Zaire White
John Rodel Castro DaJuan Jordan Travon Robinson Gavin Williams
Tayshaun Chisholm Nykiem Lee Donovan Rogers DeVontae Wilson
The following team members received 1st Team All State Designation:
Roderick Brown Ronald Jones Kyron Roberts Darius Taylor Mykele Young-Sanders
The entire team and Coaches James Solomon (State of Delaware Track and Field Coach of the Year
2015), Roger Lilly, Michael Denny, Constance Hayes, James Kilby, Vincent Terenik,
Dwayne Wilson, and are commended for their hard work, dedication, and commitment.
The City of Dover extends its sincere congratulations.
June 22, 2015
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 6
On behalf of the City, Mayor, and Council, Mayor Christiansen presented the Certificates of
Recognition to Coach James Solomon and expressed pride in the accomplishments of the team and
coaches.
Mr. Solomon thanked everyone for the momentous occasion and awards on behalf of the Capital
School District, Superintendent Dr. Michael Thomas and his administration; Dr. Evelyn Edney,
former principal at Dover High School, and her administration, faculty, and staff; and the young men
and women who represent Dover. He expressed gratitude that God had given him a chance to make
a difference in the lives of these young men and women.
Mr. Sudler stated that he had known Coach Solomon for many years and he had been a great
inspiration in Mr. Sudler’s life. As a Dover High Senator, Mr. Sudler told the young men that they
had done a great job.
RECOGNITION OF SERVICE - DAVID J. TRUAX
The Clerk read the following Certificate into the record:
CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION
Presented to
DAVID J. TRUAX
for his service as a member of the
Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee
July 2014 - May 2015
Your public service, selflessness, and talents
have increased the quality of life for the residents of the City of Dover
June 22, 2015
On behalf of the Mayor and Council, Mayor Christiansen presented the certificate to Mr. Truax,
stating that Mr. Truax had come to work in the City’s Inspections Department, moved to the top of
his craft by becoming the City Fire Marshal, retired, and returned to serve the City as a member of
the Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee. He noted that Mr. Truax was a true Doverian
and public servant. Mr. Truax expressed his appreciation for the honor and the opportunity to serve.
He offered future assistance to the City if needed in any matters pertaining to safety.
RECOGNITION OF SERVICE - RICHARD SNAMAN
On behalf of the Mayor, Council, and citizens of Dover, Mayor Christiansen presented
Mr. Richard Snaman with a Dover Cup in recognition of his years of service to the City as a member
of the Utility and Services to Seniors Committees and expressed appreciation for Mr. Snaman’s
efforts.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 7
Mr. Snaman stated that he had loved Dover since moving here 25 years ago and had been happy to
serve, initially on the Legislative and Finance Committee where he learned a lot. He stated that he
had a history and knowledge of utilities before serving on the Utility Committee, having worked with
a natural gas pipeline in his career. Mr. Snaman stated that it had been a privilege to serve.
PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
REPORT - JUNE 8, 2015
The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee met on June 8, 2015 with
Chairman Anderson presiding.
Review of Youth Advisory Committee Membership Applications
Mr. Anderson advised members that several applications had been received for the
Youth Advisory Committee (YAC), noting that there were several slots on the
Committee to be filled. He stated his belief that at least five (5) more applications
could be accepted and that additional young people could still be involved if they
wanted to. Mr. Anderson indicated that past history had shown that typically some
members of the YAC may drop out, and members who are older students may leave
the area to attend college. He stated that members would review applications and
rank them in order of their preference and then discuss them.
Noting that there were potential applicants for the Committee in the audience,
Mr. Lewis requested that Mr. Anderson provide a brief history of the YAC.
Mr. Anderson stated that the Committee was originally started many years ago and
then fell into disuse. Subsequently, former Councilwoman Sophia Russell attended
a National League of Cities Conference where she heard about other successful youth
councils. She returned to Dover, made revisions, and got a vibrant YAC started.
Mr. Anderson stated that the YAC appealed to young people because it was about
advocacy and provided an outlet for concerned young people to report to Council on
issues relating to youth, so that their voices could be heard. Noting that many young
people say there is nothing to do, Mr. Anderson stated that the YAC would also
provide activities for young people. Having an official organization to access City
facilities and connect with City events would help to cut through bureaucracy, and
the young people would be involved with planning family-friendly events and
recreational programs that are alcohol and drug free. Mr. Anderson stated that the
Committee also has a leadership development aspect to it and would provide
opportunity for participants to develop leadership skills, such as planning, goal
setting, delegation, responsibility, budgeting, and being able to function in an adult
world following structure and rules, which would benefit the participants throughout
their lives.
Mr. Caldwell questioned if there were a vision and direction for the young people and
specific ideas for what they would do. Responding, Mr. Anderson stated that the
YAC had started to develop their vision and goals, noting that part of this must come
from members as the beginning of their leadership development. Mr. Anderson
stated that one (1) project would be absolutely non-negotiable, a good
New Year’s Eve event. He stated that this would give members a big goal that
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excites them, as well as many people in the community. He stated that there had
been many financial and other types of pledges from the community to support this.
Mr. Anderson stated that youth members had also asked to be involved with Parks
and Recreation Department events, such as a Concert on the Green. A First Friday
event was being discussed with the Economic Development Office. Mr. Anderson
felt that the youth members would be interested in asking questions and in advocacy,
noting that some were very much touched by the violence that had been happening.
He indicated the desire to make sure that there are outreach efforts, so there is a
feeling that it is more “cool” to be with the people who are doing the right thing
rather than those doing the wrong thing.
Mrs. Horsey felt that this was an amazing leadership opportunity, noting the desire
to capture our youth now. She inquired if having two (2) references was a
requirement for applicants or just a recommendation. Responding, Mr. Anderson
stated that there was no code requirement for a reference for any committee;
however, preference would be given to applicants with recommendations. This
would help members to judge them better since it would indicate that someone
besides their mother thinks they are worthy of participating, and that they showed
initiative and were able to approach someone to get a reference.
The Committee recommended that Application D (Michael Gardner-Adult
Applicant) be sent to Council with a favorable recommendation pending successful
criminal background and clean hands checks.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Mr. Anderson reviewed the rankings of the youth applicants for the Youth Advisory
Committee.
The Committee recommended approval of Application A (Zorana Ilic), Application C
(Lauren Scott), Application F (Jordan Harmon), Application B (Michael Kosior) and
that Application E (Rocher Hopkins) be approved for any slots that become open.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Review of Planning, Inspections, and Recreation 2014 Annual Report
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development,
advised members that the Review of the Planning, Inspections, and Recreation
Annual 2014 Report would be considered by City Council during their Regular
Meeting scheduled for later in the evening. Mrs. Townshend reviewed a presentation
of the Planning, Inspections & Recreation 2014 Annual Report.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 9
Mrs. Townshend reviewed the 2014 highlights for the Department, noting that the
Garrison Energy Center at the Garrison Oak Technology Park was scheduled to go
online today and Uzin Utz had begun construction. In regard to Route 13
redevelopment, she advised members that the Produce Junction is underway at the
former CompUSA site.
Mrs. Townshend explained that 1,704 building permits were issued in 2014, which
was slightly fewer than 2013. There were 44 new home construction permits in
2014, slightly fewer than the prior year. Permits for 2015 were starting to pick up
slightly and 25 permits had been issued by five (5) months into the current year. She
explained that rental permits and business licenses were somewhat flat, noting that
rental permits had spiked back when the housing crisis was at its peak, and business
licenses had not rebounded from a drop that occurred when the economy declined.
Mrs. Townshend advised members that 34 applications were reviewed by the
Planning Commission and 14 by the Board of Adjustment in 2014. She explained
that architectural review certificates relate to administrative review of building
permits to ensure compliance with Historic District guidelines, and some of these
certificates are reviewed by the Historic District Commission.
Mrs. Townshend indicated that 735 inspections or complaints were handled by the
three (3) staff members of the Fire Marshal’s Office. There were 81 fire protection
permits and 71 fire investigations, which was a significant increase over 2013.
In regard to code enforcement, Mrs. Townshend stated that 8,184 inspections were
performed and there were 4,007 cases, 82% of which were initiated by either
Planning Department staff or through referrals from other City departments.
In response to Mr. Lewis regarding the total amount of fines collected by the City,
Mrs. Townshend stated that she could provide a breakdown of this amount at the
Regular City Council Meeting scheduled later in the evening.
Mrs. Townshend stated that there were just under 400 housing inspections, 560
property maintenance exterior cases, and 924 grass cases in 2014, and other
violations amounted to a quarter of the caseload.
Mrs. Townshend reviewed the statistics regarding vacant buildings. Responding to
Mr. Anderson regarding how many of these buildings were commercial versus
residential, Mrs. Townshend stated that there was no breakdown in the system;
however, the vast majority of them are residential. She advised members that the
vacant building ordinance was passed in 2006 to address a commercial issue;
however, when the housing crisis hit, the ordinance became very important because
there were so many vacant properties. The City now knows the location of these
properties and can make sure they are secure and respond to issues that come up.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 10
In reviewing information related to the City’s Parks and Recreation Program,
Mrs. Townshend informed members that leagues are a big revenue source for the
Department, noting that a decline was being seen in softball, which had previously
brought in large revenues. She indicated that the City’s Sports Coordinator had been
working to build other leagues and it was hoped that indoor field hockey and girls’
indoor lacrosse would start to balance this out.
Mrs. Townshend expressed her excitement regarding the City’s Challenger Sports
Program, which includes football, cheerleading, and basketball. Students with
disabilities from the John S. Charlton and Kent County Community Schools
participate in this program, along with athletes from Dover High School who work
as volunteers. Mrs. Townshend indicated that special needs participants benefit from
the program, but it is also a valuable experience for the high school volunteers who
work with them.
Mrs. Townshend stated that staff had been working on planning future needs,
including a Recreation Needs Assessment, noting that the draft of this document
would be presented to members during their next meeting. She indicated that the
City’s Second Annual Bike to Work Day was held in 2014 and participation
increased in 2015, which was its third year. Mrs. Townshend advised members that
community involvement in park planning is sought, explaining that a community
meeting was held at Mallard Pond and children were invited to sit down with
playground catalogs and draw the type of playground that they want. She stated that
Super Summer Playground would be getting into full swing during the following
week.
Responding to Mr. Lewis regarding where the $104,000 received from vacant
building fees goes, Mrs. Townshend stated that these fees go to the City’s General
Fund.
In response to Mr. Anderson’s request for information regarding the progress of the
Capital City Trail and its link with the City recreation plan, Mrs. Townshend
explained that this trail starts from Silver Lake, extends along Park Drive and runs
behind the Delaware Public Archives, down Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard, and
south along Route 13 to its intersection with Public Safety Boulevard. The trail can
then be picked up from Public Safety Boulevard and extends to Route 10.
Mrs. Townshend stated that, in looking at the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation Plan, which is the statewide needs assessment, trails and pathways were
included at the top of the list. This was also true in the City and Mrs. Townshend
expected that planning for trails would be ramped up. She stated that people would
like loop trails around Dover and Schutte Parks.
Mrs. Townshend noted that the Bicycle and Pedestrian Subcommittee was working
to push forward the Senator Bikeway project, which would be an on and off road
route along the Route 8 corridor linking with the Capital City Trail. It would include
trails as well as lesser stressed streets that would be a safe place to ride for those who
are not advanced cyclists.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 11
In response to Mr. Anderson regarding accommodating skateboarders,
Mrs. Townshend stated that skateboarders could use multi-use trails. She indicated
that skateboarding has two (2) components: 1) safe passage to and from destinations,
and 2) a skate park. Mrs. Townshend stated that there is no place for skateboarders
to do stunts, and they are currently using places like the steps of Legislative Hall for
this purpose.
Mr. Anderson stated that skateboarding was a big item, especially since a
skateboarder had recently been killed. Mrs. Townshend concurred, noting that this
skateboarder had been on the roadway. She indicated that bicycle and pedestrian
improvements, such as those on Kenton Road, would involve a multi-use path, which
would be safer for skateboarders.
Mrs. Horsey concurred with the importance of addressing skateboarding, stating that
she had seen skateboarders on Division Street and Governors Avenue going down
the middle of the street, which was very dangerous.
Mr. Anderson inquired about safety in the parks, noting that he had heard quite a few
complaints about people sleeping in Silver Lake and park users not feeling
comfortable when walking or running there close to dusk. Responding,
Mrs. Townshend stated that the Planning Department provides programming related
to parks and recreation and the Public Works Department maintains the parks. She
stated that complaints had been received related to Silver Lake Park and Dover Park
and had been forwarded to the Police Department. In regard to planning for
Dover Park, Mrs. Townshend felt that improvements could be made in terms of
lighting and vegetation maintenance; however, a police presence was needed to
discourage certain behaviors. She advised members that the parks are technically
closed from dusk to dawn and this is an issue because some people live and sleep in
the parks, and there are other activities that are even more concerning happening in
parks when they are technically closed.
Mr. Anderson stated that perhaps these types of activities should be put on a future
agenda and the police should be asked for grants for cameras, etc.
Mrs. Townshend stated that the Police Department mentioned a grant for foot patrols
and suggested that grant money could also be used to increase their presence in City’s
parks. She felt having officers on bicycle or foot in the parks would be helpful.
In regard to the Capital City Bike Trail, Mrs. Horsey stated that she was unsure if
people know they have to cross the highway to pick up the trail and how to
accomplish this to access the other part of the trail off Public Safety Boulevard. She
suggested that perhaps a sign should be posted to indicate that the trail continues on
the other side of Route 13. Mrs. Townshend stated that there is a signal, but other
ways of crossing the highway had been discussed. She indicated that she could bring
this up with the Kent County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and the
Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT).
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 12
Mr. Lewis questioned if some of the employees from the Police Department’s new
Cadet Program could be utilized to patrol the parks. In response, Mrs. Townshend
stated that this would be a question for the Police Department. She suggested that
park safety be added to a future agenda, since there are a wide range of related issues
that occur, including sleeping in the parks, drug deals, and umpires feeling
threatened. She suggested that Police Chief Paul Bernat be asked to come to the next
meeting.
Mr. Caldwell felt that safety would be a top concern with many of the people in the
City and indicated that he would like to see more involvement by the
Police Department. He stated that he was concerned about the behavior of the youth
and programs established for them, noting that safety was his number one (1)
concern.
Mr. Anderson expressed the desire for the Committee to look at City policies,
possibly in September when the Recreational Needs Assessment is complete, stating
his concern that some of the policies may not be constitutionally compliant.
Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that most of the provisions enforced in the parks
are designated in the Dover Code.
In response to Mr. Anderson regarding a policy not to allow political activities in
parks, Mrs. Townshend stated that this policy had been changed following a
discussion with Mr. William Pepper, Deputy City Solicitor.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for acceptance of the Parks, Recreation, and Community
Enhancement Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a unanimous roll
call vote.
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE REPORT -
JUNE 8, 2015
The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee met on June 8, 2015 with Chairman Hare
presiding.
Disposition of City Owned Land – Property Located at 16 South Queen Street,
18 South Queen Street, and 24 North New Street
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, advised members that the City of Dover acquired
properties located at 16 South Queen Street, 18 South Queen Street, and 24 North
New Street at a monition sale due to liens for demolition expenses. He stated that the
City had acquired several properties at monition sales over the past few years,
explaining that staff attends the sales and in instances where the City is the largest
lien holder on a property, the City has purchased the property to protect the City’s
interest.
Mr. Koenig stated that the subject properties are excess properties, as the City has no
use for them and is better served by the properties being redeveloped and restored as
taxable properties. He noted that the City has maintenance responsibilities associated
with the properties and has no long-term interest in owning them. Mr. Koenig
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 13
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). The procedure also includes “Exceptions to
Standard Method of Disposition,” which states as Exception D, “Donation of Land
to Non-Profit Organizations: If, in the opinion of the Dover City Council, the
donation of a parcel of excess land to a non-profit organization would be in the best
interest of the City of Dover, Council then reserves unto itself the right to make such
a donation.”
Mr. Koenig advised members that the Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity had
submitted an offer to purchase the subject properties. He stated that the sale of these
properties to Habitat for Humanity is consistent with the goals of the City of Dover
2008 Comprehensive Plan, the City of Dover 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan, and the
Downtown Development District designation, to foster home ownership for low- and
moderate-income households, and also supports the City's goal and mandate to
affirmatively further fair housing by allowing for location choices for low- and
moderate-income households.
Mr. Koenig reviewed the offers from Habitat for Humanity, explaining that if the
offers were accepted, the City would need to write off a portion of the costs for
demolition and the other charges, as follows:
City’s 2015
Offer Lien Write-Off
Address Assessed Land
Price Amount Amount
Value
16 S. Queen Street $ 5,000 $ 12,275 $ 7,275 $ 10,400
18 S. Queen Street $ 5,000 $ 6,920 $ 1,920 $ 10,400
24 N. New Street $ 5,000 $ 35,908.46 $ 30,908.46 $ 11,000
Mr. Koenig recommended negotiating a final agreement of sale and price for 16 and
18 South Queen Street with Habitat for Humanity. He stated that the final write-off
amounts for these properties would be relatively low based on the initial offer letter
from Habitat for Humanity; however, he would attempt to increase the final sale
price to minimize the write-off amounts. Mr. Koenig noted that when the City had
transferred property to Habitat for Humanity in the past, it was below the write-off
amount and technically a donation to them through the loss process. By selling to
Habitat for Humanity, the City would be ensured that the lots would be developed
and occupied by homeowners, and he indicated that home ownership is important in
creating strong communities.
Mr. Koenig recommended disposing of the property at 24 North New Street by using
the “Standard Method of Disposition” due to the significant potential write-off
amount. He believed that there may be other buyers interested in this property, and
the City could potentially recover additional costs and reduce the amount of the
potential write-off by seeking bids.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 14
Mr. Koenig noted that 16 and 18 South Queen Street were adjacent to property
owned by Habitat for Humanity; therefore, it made sense to dispose of the real estate
to them.
Staff recommended the following action: 1) determine that the property is excess
property; 2) authorize the City Manager to negotiate a final sale price with Habitat
for Humanity that minimizes the write-off amounts for 16 and 18 South Queen
Street; and 3) authorize the City Manager to dispose of 24 North New Street using
the “Standard Method of Disposition.”
Mr. Sudler questioned the difference between the cost and sale amount that the City
would lose. Responding, Mr. Koenig explained that for 16 South Queen Street the
City’s lien amount was $12,275 and the offer price from Habitat for Humanity was
$5,000; therefore, the maximum write off under current conditions would be $7,275.
For 18 South Queen Street, the lien amount was $6,920 dollars and the offer from
Habitat for Humanity was $5,000, so the maximum write off amount would be
$1,920. He reiterated his recommendation to authorize him to negotiate an increased
amount in an effort to reduce the City’s write-off amounts, realizing that the City
would not be cash positive on this transaction. Referring to 24 North New Street,
Mr. Koenig explained that the current offer from Habitat for Humanity would result
in a write-off amount of $30,908.46, which he believed was too high to request
Council to authorize. Instead, it was his opinion that the City should proceed with
a sealed bid and accept the highest offer.
In response to Mr. Sudler, Mr. Koenig explained that if the City were to accept the
offer from Habitat for Humanity for 24 North New Street, the City would have to
write off, or basically lose, $30,908.46.
Mr. Shevock questioned whether the City should advertise for 16 and 18 South
Queen Street to see if there are offers above Habitat for Humanity’s, since staff will
advertise for 24 North New Street. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that he did not
recommend advertising for 16 and 18 South Queen Street. He explained that Habitat
for Humanity owns 14 South Queen Street and, because these are small lots, their
intention is to consolidate 14, 16, and 18 into two (2) lots with a house on each lot.
Mr. Koenig stated that there is value in getting houses in this area quickly, and it
would not be worth the amount of administrative time to advertise these properties.
In response to Mr. Shevock, Mr. Koenig stated that the City always reserves the right
to reject bids. He advised that the last time the City disposed of excess property in
this manner, a minimum bid amount was set, which worked well.
Mr. Sudler questioned if there were any Code violations on these properties.
Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that there were no longer any Code violations
because all of the structures had been removed, and the land should be vacant and
free of trash. He noted that the City would write off any unpaid fines or vacant
building fees remaining.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 15
Mr. Sudler inquired if the new owner would be responsible for existing violations.
In response, Mr. Koenig explained that they would only have to mow the grass
because the properties are vacant lots at this point. He stated that past violations will
not transfer with the property, but the new owner would take over maintenance upon
the transfer of the property.
Mr. Anderson questioned whether the City would write off the lien against the
property or reserve the right to continue to pursue other options, such as a civil suit,
for collecting the debt. Responding, Mr. Koenig explained that once the City
receives payment from Habitat for Humanity for the properties located at 16 and 18
South Queen Street, the unpaid balance would be removed from potential revenue
and, for accounting purposes, would be written off. He stated that there would be no
pursuit of legal action against the previous owner.
Mr. Anderson stated that the process made sense for 16 and 18 South Queen Street
because of the amount of staff time and legal fees that would be involved without a
guarantee that the person would be found. However, he did not believe it made sense
for 24 North New Street because the City would not be able to sell that property for
an amount close to the lien, and questioned whether the City would consider selling
the debt to a collection agency instead of writing it off.
In response to Mr. Anderson, Mr. Koenig stated his belief that the City had never
sold this type of debt to a collection agency. He advised that Mr. William Pepper,
Deputy City Solicitor, had indicated that once the City owns the property, the true
liens against the property are extinguished. Mr. Koenig stated that the City does not
have a legal measure to go back and pursue a lawsuit. Since the owner forfeited the
property and the City took title to it, the City basically agreed to forgive the prior
property owner the amount.
Mr. Shevock moved to recommend: 1) declaring properties located at 16 South
Queen Street, 18 South Queen Street, and 24 North New Street as excess property;
2) authorizing the City Manager to negotiate a final sale price with Habitat for
Humanity that minimizes the write-off amounts for 16 and 18 South Queen Street;
and 3) authorizing the City Manager to dispose of 24 North New Street using the
“Standard Method of Disposition,” as recommended by staff. The motion was
seconded by Mr. Cole.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Mr. Koenig explained that the “Standard Method of
Disposition” would be through sealed bid.
In response to Mr. Sudler, Mr. Hare confirmed that through the sealed bid process,
someone would purchase the property, and the intent was to try to get more than
$5,000 for it.
The Committee recommended: 1) declaring properties located at 16 South Queen
Street, 18 South Queen Street, and 24 North New Street as excess property;
2) authorizing the City Manager to negotiate a final sale price with Habitat for
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 16
Humanity that minimizes the write-off amounts for 16 and 18 South Queen Street;
and 3) authorizing the City Manager to dispose of 24 North New Street using the
“Standard Method of Disposition.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Discussion - Fiscal Year 2015 Audit Program
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, and Mr. William Seymour,
SB & Company, LLC, reviewed a presentation entitled “Auditor’s Responsibility for
Communicating with Audit Committee.”
In regard to the Auditor’s Responsibility - Page 4, Mr. Seymour advised members
that, under generally accepted auditing standards, there is a requirement to
communicate with those charged with governance and this can occur in various
forms, such as a meeting or letters. He advised members that SB & Company would
bring items of significance to their attention as they are discovered. Mr. Seymour
stated that the audit responsibilities of SB & Company and of management would be
outlined in an engagement letter. He indicated that field work would begin in a few
weeks and would include a preliminary review of the processes and controls that
underlie the financial reporting process and the compliance process for the single
audit. A secondary process would take place after year-end to validate on a scope
basis the actual numbers within the financial statements. At the end of the audit, the
results would be summarized, including whether or not significant deficiencies or
material weaknesses were found. Mr. Seymour stated that his firm would effectively
evaluate whether management would be able to produce an accurate set of financial
statements if the financial auditor were removed from the process, and whether the
system is designed to provide reliable data. He indicated that the number one (1)
potential issue would be a finding of lots of journal entries. Mr. Seymour noted that,
during an audit, sometimes numbers reported by management are found to be
incorrect, such as discrepancies between the cash balance reported by management
and the balance obtained by the auditor; at other times there may discrepancies in
how items are presented within the statement, such as assets that are capitalized in
one (1) place and expended elsewhere.
Mr. Seymour stated that this presentation related specifically to the June 30, 2015
audit and was requested by Mrs. Mitchell so that new members would have this
information prior to receiving the audit results. He advised members that
SB & Company was available to answer any questions they may have.
Mrs. Mitchell advised members that the Legislative, Finance, and Administration
Committee serves as the City’s audit committee. She indicated that the calendar
provided spelled out the tasks to be performed during the audit period. Mrs. Mitchell
noted that there was a goal to have the audit done by November 30th, rather than
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 17
December 31st as had been done in the past. She informed members that new pension
accounting standards were implemented both last year and this year, which would
result in a larger pension liability for unfunded pensions on the financial statements.
The Committee recommended acceptance of the Fiscal Year 2015 Audit Program.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for acceptance of the Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a unanimous
roll call vote.
BOARD OF ASSESSMENT APPEALS EXEMPTION REPORT - MAY 28 AND
JUNE 2, 2015
The Board of Assessment Appeals met on May 28 and June 2, 2015, with Chairman Garfinkel
presiding.
EXEMPTIONS
House of Pride Inc.
Locations: 110 S. New Street & 106 S. New Street
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Recommend that the request for exemption be
reviewed.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
An exemption application was submitted to the Assessor’s Office.
110 S. New Street had been listed as an exempt property from July 2002 until
July 2012.
106 S. New Street had been listed as an exempt property from July 2002 until
July 2011.
The exemptions were revoked because the Conditional Use permits were revoked;
therefore the properties did not meet the qualifications for an exempt status with the
City of Dover. Since the properties did not have the proper permits, they were no
longer being used for the intended purpose of the exemption.
These are vacant pieces of land.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 18
Exemption Request
106 S New St - $13,100
110 S New Street $11,600
Mr. Marion Lott, Executive Director and Mary Beth Johnson, Property Manager were
present for the hearing.
City Assessor, Cheryl Bundek went over the packet, that included paperwork
provided by the appellant. She also suggested that the board look at the two parcels
of land first and then go over the properties with buildings.
The two parcels of land were 106 S. New Street and 110 S. New St.
Mr. Lott told the board that his organization owes demolition fees and taxes on these
two properties.
He explained that the organization is looking into donating those two parcels of land
to the Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity.
Mr. Lott was wondering if the City would be able to help his organization and work
on an agreement between the City and the House of Pride.
He explained that his organization does not have the funds to pay the outstanding
fees and taxes.
Mrs. Ann Marie Townsend explained that the House of Pride would have to come
to an agreement with the Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity and then present the
city with this agreement. It would be up to the City Council to forgive the fees and
taxes on those properties because they were donated to the Habitat for Humanity.
She explained that this should be handled by City Council and would not pertain to
the Board of Assessments Appeals.
The Assessor pointed out, after a brief discussion, that the board could only make a
decision on whether these two properties should be exempt from taxes up until they
are donated to the Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity, as they are currently being
utilized.
Chairman Garfinkel explained that in his opinion these two properties should stay as
taxable properties, because they are vacant lots.
Chairman Garfinkel made the motion to deny the request for exemption for
106 S New Street and 110 S New Street, which was seconded by Mr. Stonesifer.
Motion carried: 3-0
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 19
The Board recommended denying the request for exemption for 106 S New Street
and 110 S New Street.
Locations: Exempt Request:
16 N. New St. $54,600
29 S. New St. $82,800
20 N. New St. $89,900
38 S. New St. $80,500
37 S. New St. $119,200
115 S. New St. $117,900
105 S. New St. $72,200
102 S. New St. $60,900
55 S. New St. $60,900
45 S. New St. $77,700
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
An exemption application was submitted to the Assessor’s Office.
These properties, accept for 115 S New Street, which had never had the exempt
status, were listed as exempt properties from July 2002 until October 2012. The
exemptions were revoked because the Conditional Use permits were revoked;
therefore the properties did not meet the qualifications for an exempt status with the
City of Dover. Since the properties did not have the proper permits, they were no
longer being used for the intended purpose of the exemption.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Recommend that the request for exemption be
reviewed.
Chairman Garfinkel asked Mr. Lott to comment on the other properties mentioned
in the exempt requests.
Mr. Lott handed out a list of all the properties the organization owns, which also lists
the number of people living in each of the properties.
He explained that the organization is a Non-Profit organization and that they are not
making any money on any of these properties. The rent money generated is utilized
to pay the mortgages and utilities. The organization should take in $7,400 a month,
but because not all of their renters are able to pay the rent on monthly basis, they
often fall short.
Mr. Lott also mentioned that the city has been offering assistance to homeowners in
that area and that The House of Pride has put in three applications for assistance,
which had all been declined.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 20
Mr. Lott explained that his organization would benefit if these properties would be
exempt from property taxes. He explained that his organization keeps the homeless
off of the streets and provides a stable home for the children, he asked for the board’s
help.
Ann Marie Townsend, City Planning Director, went over past issues the city had with
the House of Pride such as building code, fire code and zoning issues, etc.
In 2008 the House of Pride applied for conditional use permits to have the house used
as residential recovery and transitional housing. The organization did not keep up
with the conditional use agreement, which lead to the revocation of the permit by the
Planning Commission in 2012.
She refers to a letter from Sandra Dean, who was the organizations attorney at that
time, acknowledging that the organization no longer rents to people within the
recovery program and that these properties should be taxed.
Mrs. Townsend also said that 115 S. New St. has never been a part of that program
and has always been a taxable property.
She questioned the number of 11 people living on one property. To her knowledge
these properties where supposed to be one family homes or two unit apartments.
She points out that on the information sheet provided, at the beginning of the hearing,
102 S. New Street is listed as occupying 5 adults and 1 child, she questioned that the
occupancy may not be up to code. This made her questioned whether these properties
are rentals or if there is even a program for those people that live there.
Mr. Lott explained that the organization used to have numerous individuals in
recovery programs, who now are renting apartments. Those individual are still
attending those programs and the organization makes sure they continue to
participate. Mr. Lott told the board that the occupants have to continue with their
programs in order to be able to live there.
Mr. Lott went on to answer Mrs. Townsends question about 102 S. New St. He said
the renter’s two older children have moved back in, which is why there are so many
people living at the property.
Mr. William W. Pepper Sr. Esq. Deputy City Solicitor commented that while the
mission of the House of Pride does has a very beneficial purpose, he has not heard
anything, during the meeting, that would change the circumstance or why they should
now be exempt. He pointed at the letter the City received from Sandra Dean, attorney
for the House of Pride, in which it stated that the organization understands that all
properties are subject to property tax.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 21
Chairman Garfinkel asked if 115 S New Street should not have been on the exempt
request list.
Mrs. Townsend explained that this property had always been a rental property and
had never been part of the recovery program.
Chairman Garfinkel asked if Mr. Lott has a license to engage in drug, alcohol and
substance abuse services.
Mr. Lott replied that he does not have a license and that the organization is not
offering such services, their purpose is to make sure that their renters continue with
the programs they are in.
Todd Stonesifer explains that while the services the House of Pride offers are
commendable, the board cannot change the rules.
Mr. Stonesifer made the motion to deny the exempt request which was second by
Mr.
Chairman Garfinkel opened up for discussion at which time Mr. Stonesifer suggested
that the organization should get their status back.
Chairman Garfinkel also said, that looking at the certificate of operation for the
House of Pride, the purpose should be for substance abuse and not what they are
doing now. If they do not have the proper licensing than they are not engaging in the
purpose of the organization.
In his opinion nothing has changed since the exempt status has been revoked.
Motion passed 3-0
Mrs. Bundek informed the appellant, that the City Council was the final decision and
that a certified letter with the date of the Council Hearing would be mailed to them.
The Board recommended denying the exemption request.
During the Regular City Council Meeting held on June 22, 2015, Mrs. Cheryl Bundek, Tax Assessor,
advised members that Item #6A, Board of Assessment Appeals Exemption Report - May 28 and
June 2, 2015, House of Pride, Inc. was not included on Council’s Consent Agenda due to the
unfavorable recommendation from the Board of Assessment Appeals. The Board denied the request
for exemption for Items A-1 and A-2, for the properties at 110 South New Street and 106 South New
Street, because they were vacant lots. Items A-3 through A-12, pertaining to the properties at
16 North New Street, 29 South New Street, 20 North New Street, 38 South New Street, 37 South
New Street, 115 South New Street, 105 South New Street, 102 South New Street, 55 South New
Street, and 45 South New Street, were denied by the Board because they did not possess the proper
licensing and were not engaging in the organization’s purpose. Staff recommended that City Council
approve the recommendation of the Board to deny the exemption request.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 22
Responding to Mr. Sudler in regard to the main requirement that properties A-3 through A-12 did
not meet, Mrs. Bundek explained that the owners did not have the proper licensing to engage in the
House of Pride organization activities, including licensing for alcohol and drug abuse treatment.
Ms. Mary-Beth Johnson, House of Pride, stated that she was standing in for Apostle Lott, who was
on a mission to Mississippi. She stated that she had volunteered with the House of Pride for five (5)
years and the only licensing she had seen was a Certificate of Incorporation. She expressed
appreciation for the Tax Assessor’s Office meeting with them. Ms. Johnson stated that the House
of Pride was still helping the community, but not in the same capacity that former House of Pride
Director Marian Harris had done. She explained that there was no longer a treatment program and
they were only providing low-income housing. Ms. Johnson stated that the main focus of the House
of Pride was to get the properties back to the way that the City and the House of Pride expected them
to be. When they get the properties up to par, they would focus on the men and women of the
community. Ms. Johnson assured members that they were not trying to disregard these individuals;
however, they need to know that their houses are in the condition that they should be in.
Noting that the vacant lots were in a different category than properties providing services,
Mr. Anderson questioned if, to Ms. Johnson’s knowledge, there had been a requirement for drug and
alcohol rehabilitation licenses. Responding, Ms. Johnson stated that she was unaware of such a
requirement since the House of Pride is not a treatment facility. She stated that Ms. Marian Harris
had always said that her business was one of a kind. Ms. Johnson stated that, as a volunteer, she had
been working hard on the houses and did not get into the nuts and bolts of the program. She
explained that the House of Pride had a meeting scheduled with the Central Delaware Habitat for
Humanity to offer these lots to them as a donation.
In response to Mr. Anderson, Ms. Johnson confirmed that House of Pride is a non-profit organization
that does a lot of outreach. She stated that everything is either donated or comes out of her pocket.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Ms. Johnson confirmed that House of Pride was not making any
profits from the rentals and was subsidizing them and trying to give people a second chance. She
stated that sometimes this works and sometimes it does not. Ms. Johnson advised members that
House of Pride was now struggling. She indicated that the people who come to them are very much
in need. House of Pride takes the risk of housing a lot of different people, including single mothers,
people who have graduated from the program and stayed clean, and handicapped couples.
Ms. Johnson explained that the House of Pride wants some people to stay for the long haul and
expressed her understanding that the City does not want the majority of those to be rental properties.
For this reason, the House of Pride wants to get the houses to the satisfaction of the City and not
make them rentals but put them back into a program at some point in the future.
In response to Mr. Anderson regarding what the impact would be if the House of Pride were to lose
their appeal, Ms. Johnson stated that another deficit would be added to what they were already going
through, and they were struggling. She explained that Ms. Harris had been gone for almost two (2)
years and a lot of funding had closed its doors as she was leaving. Ms. Johnson stated that they only
receive one (1) grant and everything else is basically from pulling personal monies together.
Responding to Mr. Sudler in regard to whether the City had ever had any licenses on file for this
program, Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, stated
that a conditional use permit was in place at one time but was revoked because of non-compliance
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 23
with the conditions. She indicated that the City does not license substance abuse providers.
Mrs. Townshend stated that she had been present at the hearing when it was stated by one (1) of the
members that the organization’s charter, which gives them non-profit status, specifically mentions
substance abuse and recovery. It was the decision of the Board that if House of Pride was not
performing these function listed in their charter, they should not have the tax exemption.
Mr. Sudler stated his understanding that the House of Pride’s conditional use consisted of having
programs for alcohol and drug abuse and questioned which conditional use they did not meet.
Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that the conditional use was required because House of Pride
was running an unlicensed substance abuse program in their houses in a residential zone and was not
meeting codes, explaining that this use was not permitted in a residential zone. She indicated that
House of Pride went through the conditional use process to be considered as a philanthropic use
within a residential zone. Mrs. Townshend explained that they had this designation for a number
of years and there were repeated issues with fire code and property maintenance code violations.
This matter went to the Planning Commission and the conditional use was then revoked.
Mr. Neil questioned if the homes were up to code and, if not, if there was a possibility of a buyer
being able to bring them up to code.
Mrs. Townshend stated that all of the homes were not occupied.
Ms. Johnson stated that 20 North New Street was unoccupied and had been on the market for well
over a year. A few people had looked at it, but she stated her opinion that this property was not
savable and, more than likely, would be demolished. She stated that criminals ransacked 45 South
New Street after work had been done while she was on vacation, so they were behind on this
property again. One additional property, 37 South New Street, was empty and Ms. Johnson
estimated that this would be completed within a month. The major things that the City had requested
were completed by special contractors and the beautification was being finished.
Ms. Johnson stated that House of Pride offers after care, explaining that a gentleman who came to
the organization for help is a renter there and now volunteers full-time with the organization. She
stated that people like this come back to serve the community, and the organization is a circle that
helps people out and tries to put them back in the community as more productive people.
There being no one else present wishing to speak, Council President Slavin declared the public
hearing closed.
Mr. Hutchison moved to accept the recommendations of the Board of Assessment Appeals to deny
the request for exemption for Items A-1through A-12 regarding properties owned by House of Pride.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Neil.
Mr. Anderson expressed concern regarding the Board’s recommendation, stating his opinion that
there should be a distinction between the vacant lots and allowing the exemption, which had existed
for decades, for the House of Pride to continue to do its work and after care. Mr. Anderson felt that
the Board was getting into micro managing a non-profit and trying to tell it how its job is done. He
did not believe that this was the job of the Board. He stated that Council had dealt with and
overturned this in the past and he felt this was a mistake. Mr. Anderson stated that House of Pride
was doing charitable work that was consistent with after care to keep people clean and sober and
broader work in helping others who are handicapped with longer-term housing needs. He felt that
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 24
the City had asked a lot of House of Pride over the last couple of years, including putting in a lot of
money to upgrade the properties. Mr. Anderson reminded those members who were present that
there had previously been a concern that the properties were deteriorating and needed to be taken
care of, and they had done everything the City had asked and had almost completed that process.
He felt that putting more bills on House of Pride before everything is complete would hinder what
the City was trying to do to reclaim New Street and make these properties look good, be up to code,
and have the right people in them to build up the neighborhood. Mr. Anderson felt that the proposed
action would be counterproductive to those ends.
Mr. Sudler inquired if Ms. Johnson foresaw the program continuing with the initial focus of
Ms. Harris’ vision within the next three (3) months. Responding, Ms. Johnson stated that this might
occur within six (6) months, but she could not guarantee three (3) months. She confirmed that the
organization had been working on a plan of action. Ms. Johnson apologized for Apostle Lott’s
absence, noting that she is basically the property manager and that he was more equipped to answer
than she was.
Mr. Sudler questioned if in six (6) months the House of Pride would be able to meet the conditional
use and be back to its original concept plan of functioning and serving the community in their past
capacity. Ms. Johnson confirmed that they would.
Ms. Johnson questioned if this would apply to just the properties that house program individuals or
all of the houses. Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that it would apply to all of the houses since
the zone is a single-family residential zone and other uses would not be permitted in the zone. She
stated that the City was able to categorize it for a conditional use as a philanthropic function.
Mrs. Townshend stated that, at this point, the only approved use on any of the properties was a
single-family residential use.
Ms. Johnson responded that this was exactly the population that House of Pride was serving, noting
that the majority of the properties were apartments with families in them and there were only one (1)
or two (2) with single people, noting that single males live in two (2) of the apartments, and there
are four (4) individuals living in one (1) house. None of them are relatives, although up to five (5)
relatives are allowed. She stated that these were all after care people and, by the end of the current
week, three (3) of them would be moving on.
Mr. Lewis questioned if all of the properties were up to safety code. Responding, Mrs. Townshend
stated that 45 South New Street had been declared dangerous by City Council. A building permit
had been issued. Noting that Ms. Johnson mentioned that House of Pride had nearly finished their
repairs, Mrs. Townshend stated that the organization had not called inspections staff for inspections;
therefore, any repairs made were not inspected. She reiterated that 20 North New Street was vacant.
Mrs. Townshend stated her understanding that renovations were underway for 37 South New Street,
but the owners had not called the City for inspections. She stated that the challenge with these
properties had been that when there was code compliance, it had been marginal and short lived,
which was part of the reasons why staff had been back several times to the Planning Commission
regarding the conditional use and why several properties had been brought forward as dangerous
buildings over the years.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 25
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Townshend confirmed that these properties were pending, stating
that some were occupied and had passed more recent inspections, and others were unoccupied and
had not had the inspections necessary to grant them occupancy.
Mr. Neil stated his assumption that no taxes were being paid on these properties because House of
Pride was a 501(c)(3) organization. In response, Mrs. Townshend stated that, in 2012, the City
received a letter from Ms. Sandra Dean, who was House of Pride’s attorney at that time, stating that
they were no longer going to be providing the services for which they had a conditional use, and that
they understood that these properties were no longer tax exempt. Since that point in time, they had
been sent a property tax bill annually, which they had not been paying.
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, stated that to his knowledge, House of Pride was delinquent. It was
his belief that a demolition lien had been added to the tax rolls for at least one (1) of the properties.
He was not aware of any significant progress made to remedy the delinquent taxes on a majority of
the properties.
Ms. Johnson stated that she would bring inspection reports to Mrs. Townshend, noting that
individuals had reinspected the footing at 45 South New Street.
Mrs. Townshend stated that framing and drywall had been done and the framing was not inspected
before it was enclosed. Responding, Ms. Johnson stated that an individual had come during the
previous week and had asked that the floorboards be pulled so he could look at it, and this was done.
She noted that she would let him come out and look at it again. Ms. Johnson advised members that
they came out and looked at the footing at 37 South New Street and the floors had not been closed
up yet and she indicated that she would bring these reports in. Ms. Johnson stated that House of
Pride paid taxes this year for the previous year. She confirmed that the demolition did go towards
the lien.
Mr. Slavin reopened the public hearing.
Responding to Mr. Lewis in regard to the reason taxes had not been paid, Ms. Johnson stated that
this was due to lack of funds.
Noting that the House of Pride had not paid taxes for this year, Mr. Sudler inquired if they were
current on taxes for previous years. Responding, Ms. Johnson stated they owed just for the current
year. Mr. Koenig noted that House of Pride also owed for whatever demolition liens had been added
to the tax roll.
Ms. Johnson corrected her previous statement, stating that taxes had been paid for rental properties
and payments were behind for properties not being rented or used. In total for all units, House of
Pride was two (2) years behind.
Council President Slavin declared the hearing closed, noting that a motion had been made by
Councilman Hutchison and seconded by Councilman Neil to accept the Board’s recommendation
for denial of the request for exemption.
Mr. Anderson stated that there had been a market change with the change in management and that
demolitions were occurring previously. He noted that there had been marked change and good
progress over the last year.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 26
The motion to accept the recommendations of the Board of Assessment Appeals to deny the
request for exemption for Items A-1through A-12 - House of Pride, was carried by a vote of
eight (8) yes (Sudler, Neil, Lewis, Cole, Hosfelt, Hare, Hutchison, and Slavin) and one (1) no
(Anderson).
Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity
Locations: Exempt Request:
20 S Kirkwood St. $42,300
28 S Kirkwood St. $50,600
30 S Kirkwood St. $35,500
40 S Kirkwood St. $74,900
138 Cherry St. $38,200
117 S Queen St. $58,300
29 N Kirkwood St. $0 (already exempt) –City owned)
223 W Division St. $117,200
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
An exemption request for the above referenced properties was submitted to the
Assessor’s Office.
These properties are being renovated for low-income families to provide an
affordable mortgage. Once these properties are complete and the ownership is
transferred, they will be added back to the tax rolls. (As a supplemental billing)
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Recommend that the request for exemption be
approved.
Mrs. Tice, Executive Director was present for the meeting.
She went over Central Delaware Habitat for Humanities’ mission, which is to bring
families together to build affordable homes in the community. Mrs. Tice told the
board that there are currently 17 Habitat homeowners in Dover, 40 throughout Kent
County and that the organization is working back in Dover on a number of properties.
She went on to tell the board that the Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity had
been awarded $672,000 back in January by the Strong Neighborhood Housing Fund.
With that fund they are planning to buy, renovate or demolish properties within a 20
block radius of Downtown Dover.
The organization is looking to increase the homeownership in this area, which
primarily had been rental properties. She explained that the organization is targeting
low-income families who are able to pay a mortgage. The homes are built with the
help of volunteers and the aspects of the organization.
Página 27
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 27
Mrs. Tice told the board that construction will begin in June on the four properties
located on Kirkwood Street. She went on to explain that 138 Cherry Street is
currently in their Land Bank, construction will start sometime in 2016.
117 S. Queen Street is a vacant home and was donated to the organization and is
scheduled for demolition, new construction is also scheduled for 2016.
29 N. Kirkwood was purchased from the City, which is also scheduled for
construction in 2016.
Mrs. Tice went on to talk about 223 W Division Street, which used to be an old shoe
store. She told the board that the building was donated to their organization by a
bank. She also mentioned that the organization does not yet know how to utilize that
building. One of the options would be to use the building as an office building.
Mrs. Bundek mentioned that the City has not received the deed for 223 W. Division
Street. Mrs. Tice offered to provide the Assessor’s Office with a copy of the deed.
Board Member Welsh made the motion to accept the request for exemption for all
of the properties, which was seconded by Board Member Stonesifer.
Motion passed 3-0
Chairman Garfinkel raised the question about 223 W Division St., he was wondering
if this property would fall under the scope of the organization, since this is a
commercial property.
Mrs. Tice explained that when a Bank donates a property to a non-profit
organization, the building should be used as community development, which is why
the organization is looking to use the building as an outreach or a satellite office for
the organization. She assured the Board Members that it is not the intent of the
organization to use this property for investment purposes and offered to keep the City
updated about the future use of the building.
Chairman Garfinkel requested to amend the motion, to grant the exemption for all
of the properties except for 223 W. Division Street, which will be exempted for one
year only, to be revisited once the organization knows what the use will be.
Motion carried 3-0
Mrs. Bundek informed the appellant, that the City Council was the final decision and
that a certified letter with the date of the Council Hearing would be mailed to her.
The Board recommended granting the exemption for all of the properties except for
223 W. Division Street, which will be exempted for one (1) year only, to be revisited
once the organization knows what the use will be.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 28
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Board’s recommendation, seconded
by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Emerald Pointe Maintenance Corp.
Locations: Open Spaces
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
These parcels fall under State Statute 9 Del. C. §8110 Civic organizations owning
parkland.
EXEMPTION REQUEST
ED05-067.01-02-14.00 $ 2,600
ED05-067.01-01-98.00 $ 2,800
ED05-067.01-01-96.00 $10,300
ED05-067.01-02-13.00 $ 3,500
ED05-067.01-01-97.00 $29,200
ED05-067.01-01-99.00 $10,900
$ 59,300
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Recommend that the request for exemption be
approved.
Mrs. Murphy, community Manager with Legum & Norman, employed by Emerald
Pointe Maintenance Corp. as their management firm was present for representation.
Mrs. Murphy told the board that the Emerald Point Maintenance Corp. has applied
for Exemption with the City of Dover. She also mentioned that they are already
exempt with Kent County.
Chairman Garfinkel asked if these properties were open spaces and if they will
remain that way.
Mrs. Murphy assured that they are open spaces and that there will be no future
changes to those properties.
Mr. Burns asked if these spaces have been recorded as open spaces, which was
confirmed by Mrs. Murphy.
Board Member Burns made the motion to accept the request for exemption, which
was seconded by Board Member Welsh.
Motion carried 3-0
Página 29
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 29
Mrs. Bundek informed Ms. Murphy that the City Council was the final decision and
that a certified letter with the date of the Council Hearing would be mailed to her.
The Board recommended accepting the request for exemption.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Board’s recommendation, seconded
by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Village of Westover HOA, Inc.
Location: Open Spaces.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
These parcels fall under State Statute 9 Del. C. §8110 Civic organizations owning
parkland.
EXEMPTION REQUEST
ED05-076.09-03-70.00 $ 50,900
ED05-076.09-03-71.00 132,300
$183,200
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Recommend that the request for exemption be
approved.
Nobody was present to represent the Village of Westover HOA, Inc.
Chairman Garfinkel asked the Assessor to comment on the request, as there was no
representative for Village of Westover HOA present.
Mrs. Bundek asked the petition be approved as it falls under Delaware State Code 9
Del. C. §8110 for civic organizations owning park land.
She pointed out that the board just heard and approved the exempt request for the
Emerald Pointe Maintenance Corp., which was for open spaces as well. She assured
the board that these spaces too have been recorded as open spaces and cannot be used
for anything else.
Board Member Welsh made the motion to accept the Assessor’s recommendation to
approve the exempt request, which was seconded by Board Member Burns.
Motion carried 3-0
Mrs. Bundek informed the board, that the City Council was the final decision and
that a certified letter with the date of the Council Hearing would be mailed to the
HOA.
Página 30
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 30
The Board recommended acceptance of the Assessor’s recommendation to approve
the exemption request.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Board’s recommendation, seconded
by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Mr. Hare moved for acceptance of the Board of Assessment Appeals report, seconded by
Mr. Hosfelt and unanimously carried.
AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE AGREEMENT TO PERFORM A COMPREHENSIVE
ANALYSIS OF POLICE, FIRE AND EMS SERVICES FOR THE CITY OF DOVER
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, advised members that earlier this year, during a discussion of
additional officers for the Dover Police Department, the City Manager’s Office sought assistance
from the Center for Public Safety Management, LLC (CPSM) with respect to various public safety
services in an effort to understand and analyze the needs of the City of Dover. Mr. Koenig explained
that CPSM is the exclusive provider of public safety technical assistance for the International
City/County Management Association (ICMA), noting that he and the Assistant City Manager are
members of ICMA. Mr. Koenig stated that a proposal was received from CPSM to perform an
analysis of the major functions and outcomes of the Department related to public safety, with a
primary focus on the Police Department. He indicated that the comprehensive analysis would also
include examining fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS), including comprehensive data
analysis; a review of governance and administration of these services; organizational behavior and
management processes; financial resources including operating and capital resources; programs
including fire suppression, EMS, fire prevention, public education, investigation, technical rescue,
hazardous materials, emergency management, and other delivery programs; risk management and
the all-hazards approach to community protection; and the International Organization for
Standardization (ISO) accreditation of benefit analysis.
Mr. Koenig explained that this would be a third-party analysis performed by a team of qualified
subject matter experts specifically designed to give a local government a thorough and unbiased
analysis of the emergency services within their community. Based on the connection with ICMA
and the unique services provided under the proposal, Mr. Koenig recommended that this proposal
be authorized as a sole source procurement, and that staff be authorized to begin work on this,
shortly after July 1, 2015. The amount budgeted in the FY 16 budget for this service was $100,000.
If Council gave authorization tonight, staff would be prepared to execute an agreement upon final
adoption of the FY 16 budget, and it was expected that work would be underway in July, with a
project estimated completion time of 105 to 135 days after execution of the agreement.
Staff recommended authorizing the City Manager to execute an agreement with the Center for Public
Safety Management, LLC to perform a comprehensive analysis of police, fire and EMS services for
the City of Dover. This authorization is contingent upon the adoption of the FY-2016 City of Dover
operating budget. The execution of the agreement will be finalized after July 1, 2015.
Mr. Lewis questioned if there were a more economical way of conducting the analysis than paying
$100,000. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated his opinion of the need to secure the services of an
unbiased expert. He explained that he had held discussions with CPSM and Police Chief
Página 31
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 31
Paul Bernat had seen presentations by one (1) of CPSM’s experts. Although Chief Bernat was not
present at the Council meeting, Mr. Koenig stated that he and the Chief had discussed this as part
of the budget presentation and they felt, for the benefit of the community, that an independent third
party should look at this. Mr. Koenig stated his belief that it would not be in the City's best interest
to seek another option.
Mr. Lewis asked if a establishing a committee with local experts would be more cost effective.
Mr. Koenig did not feel that a committee of local experts could provide a product within 105-135
days.
Mr. Lewis questioned if Mr. Koenig was saying that local experts did not have the expertise.
Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that he was asked to prepare a proposal, and this was the proposal
he was bringing forth because he believed it to be unbiased in all aspects.
Mr. Lewis stated his opinion that $100,000 for this analysis was high when the City was in a tight
budget.
Mr. Anderson questioned if Mr. Koenig had gotten recommendations from other municipalities who
had used this service to study their public safety. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that he had not
talked directly to the listed entities; however, the City of Annapolis had used this company to do a
review of certain services and those reviews were part of the presentations that the CPSM includes
in their workshops and webinars. It was his belief that CPSM’s work product was available through
the various cities that they had done business with.
Mr. Hare moved to suspend the rules to allow Fire Chief Mark Hall to speak. The motion was
seconded by Mr. Sudler and unanimously carried.
Chief Hall stated that he was caught off guard as he received a phone call early this morning
informing him that this item was put on the agenda and asked, as Fire Chief, that Mr. Koenig inform
him what the ultimate plan was in reference to the Fire Department.
Mr. Koenig stated that there was no predetermined plan going into this and suggested that the
Fire Department review some of the discussions held by the Ad Hoc Financial Advisory and
Operational Committee, as well as various discussions with the Fire Department, including whether
the City can economize dispatching services, deliver services cheaper, and partner with other
available means. Mr. Koenig indicated that this proposal was not in any way intended to be
disrespectful to the Department but was about improving efficiencies and work flow, as well as
reducing cost if possible, which is exactly what Council had requested on many occasions.
Chief Hall inquired if this would be a comprehensive review of the Fire Department that would focus
on the dispatch center, which includes City employees. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that the
review would also look at apparatus, financing, calls, and deployment strategies. He indicated that
this was all included in the proposal provided by CPSM.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 32
On behalf of the Dover Fire Department, Robbins Hose Company, and the Fire Chief, Chief Hall
stated that he did not agree with this review. He stated that he had been against the Ad Hoc
Financial and Operational Advisory Committee; however, he was serving as the Assistant Chief at
that time. He stated that the Committee’s review was similar to this; however, it did not cost
$100,000. He asked that members take into consideration that the Fire Department is volunteer.
Responding to Mr. Sudler regarding what Chief Hall thought could be done and if this should
include another ad hoc committee, Chief Hall stated that no one had contacted him and asked him
any questions, which would be one (1) option. Other than going through an ad hoc committee,
which had already been done, he had no additional suggestions.
Mr. Lewis inquired what Chief Hall would think about creating a committee that would consist of
the experts in the Fire Department and members of the community, including people with financial
backgrounds. Responding, Chief Hall stated that he thought this would be an option.
Mr. Hare indicated that the City of Annapolis indicated that CPSM was very professional and
unbiased and that they review programs from a neutral point of view. He stated that the City of
Annapolis was very pleased overall. Mr. Hare stated that the Council had directed Mr. Koenig to
go forward with a review. He reiterated that this would be a totally unbiased review and the
Police Chief was okay with it. Mr. Hare stated the need for an unbiased opinion rather than a review
by local people so that there would be a fresh set of eyes without opinions before they get here.
Mr. Hosfelt questioned if this review would be favorable to the City as well as the unions and
expressed concern in regard to the unions. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that the experts involved
understand that a number of cities operate in a police and fire union operated environment, so they
are aware of the associated challenge. He indicated that this would be more about workload
application, including whether the City has the appropriate units, whether they are appropriately
staffed based on national reviews, etc. It would also look at how calls come in and are analyzed and
distributed. Mr. Koenig stated that, in his opinion, this would be a more technically driven
discussion than a Bartell formula review and would be data driven. He advised members that it may
mean that schedules would be modified, but it is understood that those types of recommendations
have to go through a review process with the individual agencies. Mr. Koenig assured members that
the consultant would not come in saying, “You have to do this,” but would say, “Here is a series of
recommendations that will improve your service delivery.” Noting that social media had been a huge
improvement, in some cases to law enforcement, Mr. Koenig stated that there may be things in this
area that should be considered and CPSM may make recommendations related to nationwide
agencies or standards, such as civilianizing certain positions so that an officer could be redeployed
to an actual position.
Mr. Lewis questioned if this was already being done. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that he did not
know the answer to that, because this was up to the Chief of Police and his staff . Mr. Koenig stated
that Chief Bernat had heard someone speak on this matter at a law enforcement seminar and
understood the potential impact to the Police Department. Mr. Koenig stated that when Council
authorized ten additional officers, this was a minimum salary base line of $0.5M, not including the
load for benefits, overtime, uniforms, and support for those officers. Mr. Koenig stated that the cost
Página 33
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 33
of the study would be $100,000, approximately $65,000 to $70,000 of which would relate to the
Police Department. He felt that it would be prudent for the City to spend this amount to ensure
getting the best out of the $0.5M that had been authorized.
Mr. Hare reminded members that the report would be given to the City Manager and Council, who
would decide if they wished to implement anything in it. The report would provide information from
experts that would help Council during budget time, noting that you can never have enough
information.
Mr. Hutchison reminded members that this Council and the former Council had an outstanding track
record on supporting the Police and Fire Departments and that the City has outstanding Fire and
Police Departments. He felt it was Council’s job to make sure they are doing the right things to
prepare for the future. Having been part of the Police Department for 25 years, Mr. Hutchison felt
the study was needed since the world had changed and the City must also be able to do so. He felt
it would be helpful to have a team of experts come in from the outside to analyze the City and come
back with a recommendation. Although Council would not have to take their recommendations,
Mr. Hutchison felt that Council had an obligation to the citizens to at least look at them.
Mr. Sudler asked if Mr. Koenig believed that the City would receive a $100,000 return on this
$100,000 investment. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that if a recommendation was provided that
saved the City $20,000 per year, by spending $100,000 in FY 16, this cost would be recovered within
five (5) years.
Mr. Anderson moved to accept staff’s recommendation to authorize the City Manager to execute an
agreement with the Center for Public Safety Management, LLC to perform a comprehensive analysis
of police, fire, and EMS services for the City of Dover, with authorization to be contingent upon the
FY 2016 City of Dover operating budget and with the execution of this agreement to be finalized
after July 1, 2015. The motion was seconded by Mr. Sudler.
Mr. Anderson stated that he understood and shared some skepticism in this matter; however, he
stated that he favored the review because the City Manager had been saying for the last three (3)
years that certain areas needed to be examined and internal politics did not seem to allow for experts
to be obtained who were not on one side or the other. Mr. Anderson noted that some of these matters
deal with $700,000 per year. He indicated that he was willing to let the City Manager manage, as
this is what he is paid to do, and if all factors were equal and he must flip a coin, he would flip it to
that side.
The motion to accept staff’s recommendation to authorize the City Manager to execute an
agreement with the Center for Public Safety Management, LLC to perform a comprehensive
analysis of police, fire, and EMS services for the City of Dover, with authorization to be
contingent upon the FY 2016 City of Dover operating budget and with the execution of this
agreement to be finalized after July 1, 2015, was carried by a roll call vote of eight (8) yes
(Anderson, Sudler, Neil, Lewis, Cole, Hosfelt, Hare, Hutchison, and Slavin) and one (1) no
(Lewis).
Página 34
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 34
REAPPOINTMENTS RECOMMENDED BY MAYOR CHRISTIANSEN - BOARD OF
ADJUSTMENT - THREE (3) YEAR TERMS TO EXPIRE JULY 2018
Mayor Christiansen submitted the following reappointments to the Board of Adjustment for three
(3) year terms to expire July 2018:
James N. Keller
Richard Senato
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the reappointments, as recommended by
Mayor Christiansen, seconded by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
FIRST READING OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2015-12 - REZONING REQUEST FOR
PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 35 AND 39 NORTH NEW STREET
A request was received to rezone properties located at 35 and 39 North New Street, consisting of
0.137+/- acres and 0.089+/- acres, owned by Robert and Erin Barrett and Erin L. Cooper, respectively.
These properties are currently zoned RG-1 (General Residence) and the proposed zoning is RG-3
(Group Housing).
Prior to amending the zoning ordinances and zoning map of the City of Dover, a public hearing is
required. Staff recommended referral to the Planning Commission on July 20, 2015 and that a
Public Hearing be set for August 10, 2015 at 7:30 p.m., at which time the Final Reading and Council
action will take place.
Mr. Hare moved to refer the request to the Planning Commission and set a Public Hearing for
August 10, 2015 at 7:30 p.m., seconded by Mr. Cole.
Mr. Neil inquired if this would be a group home or apartment house, stating his understanding that
New Street is zoned for single-family residence. Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that the group
housing zone is a town house zone. The rezoning would allow the property owner to subdivide into
three (3) lots instead of two (2) and develop town homes. In response to Mr. Neil, Mrs. Townshend
stated that these would be tax-paying town homes.
The motion to refer the request to the Planning Commission and set a Public Hearing for
August 10, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. was carried unanimously.
In accordance with Section 1-9 of the Dover Code, Council acknowledged the First Reading of
Proposed Ordinance #2015-12 as read by the City Clerk, by title only, as follows:
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE
CITY OF DOVER BY CHANGING THE ZONING DESIGNATION OF PROPERTIES LOCATED
AT 35 AND 39 NORTH NEW STREET
FINAL READING - PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2015-10 - NOTIFICATION OF TAX RATE
INCREASE OVER THE ROLLED BACK TAX RATE [REQUIRED IN ACCORDANCE
WITH 22 DELAWARE CODE SECTION 1105(B)]
The First Reading of the proposed ordinance was accomplished during the Regular Council Meeting
of June 8, 2015.
Página 35
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 35
Mr. Neil moved that the Final Reading of the Proposed Ordinance be acknowledged by title
only, seconded by Mr. Cole and unanimously carried.
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, explained that this ordinance was the first step in tonight's budget
approval process. Proposed Ordinance #2015-10 would take the current property tax rate of 33.78
cents per $100 of assessed value, incorporate the new value of $3,103,526,891 for the FY 16
assessment, and redo the calculations to create a revenue neutral assessment. He noted that this is
called the roll back tax; however, based on current values, it would actually be a roll ahead tax,
which would set the rate at 34.99 cents per $100 of assessed value. Mr. Koenig advised members
that the final budget ordinance would be reviewed later in the evening, and the budget ordinance
would increase the tax rate to 40.5 cents per $100 assessed value, thus creating a tax increase of
15.7% over the roll back in tax.
Mr. Sudler inquired how much a taxpayer would pay per day with the tax increase. Responding,
Mr. Koenig stated that this would depend on the location in the City. He stated that he had examined
tax increases for some individuals who had written letters to the editor of the Delaware State News
regarding this matter. In one (1) case, the increase amounted to approximately $48.68, per year, or
roughly 13 cents a day; another equated to a tax decrease of $53.16 per year because the assessed
value went down. Mr. Koenig stated that he a resident from Woodcrest, who had come before the
microphone, would have an impact of approximately $90 per year. Another person on Pine Valley
road experienced an increase in the assessed value as well as the tax rate, and their impact would be
approximately $290 per year, or slightly less than a dollar a day. Mr. Koenig reminded members that
calculations that showing the impact on residential properties across the City had been included in
the budget presentation and he had not seen any that had an impact greater than a dollar per day, and
many were less than that.
Mr. Koenig stated that there would be an impact to the business community because their
assessments, on average, went up across the City. He stated that it is necessary to make calculations
for the actual property being discussed to identify the specific impact. Mr. Koenig stated that staff
had been up front with the original proposed tax rate of 42 cents and the newspapers had since
carried the rate of 40.5 per $100 of assessed value. People had the opportunity to call and ask what
the impact is to their properties and, generally, those Mr. Koenig had talked to understood that if the
rate is not adjusted and the operating and capital plans are not maintained, the next assessment of
their property may go down, not due to the economy but because of a change in the character of their
neighborhood.
Mr. Hutchison noted that the General Assembly was proposing to cut grant-in-aid as well as the
transportation fund. He asked how much the City typically receives in this type of funding.
Responding, Mr. Koenig stated Dover is one of three (3) jurisdictions that receives Payment in Lieu
of Taxes (PILOT), which is part of grant-in-aid, from the State. He estimated that funding for
PILOT was approximately$275,000 for the current fiscal year. The City proposed roughly the same
level of funding for FY 16. In regard to municipal street aid, Mr. Koenig stated his recollection that
funding in the current year budget was approximately $665,000. In the FY 16 budget, it was
assumed that the State may be splitting a pot of $5M State-wide, which would drop this number to
roughly $550,000. Discussions with State legislators indicated there was potential for this number
to go to $0 as part of budget discussions at the State. Mr. Koenig informed members that the
Governor’s Office proposed municipal street aid at $3M versus the $4M on which staff was basing
Página 36
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 36
its calculations, and this difference in State aid would affect the City’s budget by$165,000 dollars.
He noted that PILOT payments and municipal street aid are big concerns to the City of Dover in
developing the FY 16 budget and cautioned members that the City could not currently count on this
revenue.
In regard to Community Transportation Funds (CTF), Mr. Koenig stated that the City had partnered
with various legislators on signage and improvements to roads, sidewalks, and parking areas.
Legislators had also pledged CTF monies to fund cameras in the downtown as a substitute for a road
project. Mr. Koenig stated that all of those funds were at risk for FY 16, based on the most recent
discussions with Senator Bushweller and Representative Carson, and, to his belief, Representative
Bennett. Staff was hopeful that none of those revenues would be cut, but was very conscious that
this could occur in the next eight (8) days, as the legislature deliberates over the final State budget.
Mr. Lewis questioned if the City had a back-up plan if these funds were cut. Responding,
Mr. Koenig stated that if this occurs, he would return to Council advising them how the budget gap
could be closed, and this would likely affect operating costs, capital projects, vehicles, etc. The next
step would be to determine if positions must be frozen. This matter would be brought back to
Council either on the Council floor or through a memorandum to Council. Mr. Koenig confirmed
that staff would always have an alternate plan.
Mr. Hosfelt moved to accept the tax rates and for adoption of Ordinance #2015-10. The motion was
seconded by Mr. Cole.
Mr. Anderson noted that the exact tax rate would be determined by the City’s spending.
Mr. Anderson moved to defer consideration of Ordinance #2015-10 until after voting on
Ordinance #2015-11. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hare and carried by a unanimous roll
call vote.
FINAL READING - PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2015-11 - 2015/2016 CITY OF DOVER
BUDGET ORDINANCES
The First Reading of the proposed ordinance was accomplished during the Regular Council Meeting
of June 8, 2015.
Mr. Neil moved that the Final Reading of the Proposed Ordinance be acknowledged by title
only, seconded by Mr. Anderson and unanimously carried.
In response to Mr. Anderson, Mr. Koenig stated that the cost of granting a bonus of 2% of base pay
to non-bargaining employees making more than $75,000 would be $29,300.
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mr. Koenig indicated that this bonus would affect 15 people in the work
force.
Mr. Koenig stated that the drafting of the FY 16 operating budget had been a significant challenge
for staff, the people who attended the budget hearings, and Council members, who participated in
more than 15 hours of discussion. The original draft FY 16 City of Dover budget totaled
approximately $137,071,000 across all funds. After the budget deliberations, that number was
Página 37
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 37
revised to roughly $136,520,000. The original draft General Fund budget was approximately
$41,000,830, which was decreased to $41,327,100 after the budget review. Mr. Koenig explained
that a large driver in the budget was the number of full-time equivalents in the work force, with a
net gain of 14 positions proposed, from 347 to 361. This was revised during Council deliberations
to 360 positions, resulting in a net gain of 13. Mr. Koenig explained that part-time positions
increased in the proposed budget by 15, from 78 to 93, including a number of police cadets,
additional library staff, and some individuals related to Comcast broadcasting. He indicated that the
major drivers of the General Fund were significant increases in public safety. Ten uniformed police
officers were added, and there was an increase in Police Department civilians over the last year
related to the civilianization of the Sex Offender Unit officers and a crime analyst and police
accreditation position. An additional planner position was also proposed to support Dover’s
designation as one of three (3) Down Development Districts within the State.
Mr. Koenig stated that the proposed budget included increased operational spending for the
Fire Department in the amount of $51,400. It also maintained a strong project and equipment
Capital Investment Plan, including $1M in annual road maintenance and repairs. There was a
significant increase in health care cost across the workforce of approximately 16.84%. A robust
Capital Improvement Plan was also maintained in the Water/Sewer and Electric Funds. During
Council’s review of the budget, total expenses were reduced by approximately $944,000, which
altered the proposed tax rate from 42 cents per $100 of assessed value to 40.5 cents per $100 of
assessed value. Mr. Koenig advised members that the reduction of the proposed tax rate and the
required interfund transfers reduced projected revenue by $757,800. The proposed tax increase was
roughly 24.3% and budget deliberations reduced that total tax rate increase, not the roll back tax rate
increase, to 19.9% based on taking the tax rate from 33.78 cents to 40.5 cents.
Mr. Koenig stated that the proposed FY 16 budget, does not include any increases in rates related
to the water or sewer utilities because of expected revenue from the Garrison Energy Center project.
This project allowed acceleration of the additional transfer from the water and sewer utility to the
$850,000 that was identified in the Utility and Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee
meetings held earlier in the day.
Mr. Koenig noted that an approximate 3% electric rate increase was proposed across all
classifications based on a detailed cost of service study done with the City’s consultant, Burns and
McDonnell. This was done to accurately apply expenses related to cost in each classification so that
industrial customers are not subsidizing the residential rate and residential customers are not
subsidizing other rate classifications. The cost of service study is designed to appropriate allocate
costs across the various rate classifications. Mr. Koenig advised that distorting this creates a very
difficult rate structure to defend to the City’s customers. He indicated that the residential numbers
in the budget were slightly less than some of the commercial numbers, noting that the increase was
from roughly 2.2% to as high as approximately 3.6% for certain industrial or commercial
classifications. However, Mr. Koenig advised members that this was being driven by the cost to
serve those customers and was not a distorted cost in the model. The City, through the budget, had
continued to adhere to its financial policies to fulfill the fiduciary responsibilities its bond holders,
taxpayers, and employees, while maintaining a strong public safety presence, service quality, and
quality of life programs that benefit everyone in the City.
Página 38
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 38
Mr. Koenig reiterated that was a very difficult and sometimes contentious budget to prepare and was
a compromise between Council, staff, the Mayor, and those who came to the microphone and spoke
on behalf of programs, staff, or projects that they would like to see in the budget. Mr. Koenig
expressed thanks to the staff who participated, noting that this is a budget that staff believed was
necessary to maintain the quality of life in the City of Dover.
Mr. Sudler questioned, realistically, how much further the percentage could be brought down if the
budget were cut further. Responding, Mr. Koenig advised members that, from a managerial
standpoint, Council cut where appropriate when they made motions regarding the draft budget. He
stated that in the five (5) year forecast, if the roughly 40.5 cent tax rate is not maintained, staff may
be back before Council asking for additional increases. He felt that while there may be some
short-term benefit from adjusting that rate, this may end up being only 12 or 24 months.
Optimistically, Mr. Koenig stated that there was hope that the City economy may turn around, noting
that a lot of the local budget is driven by the construction market. He expressed his fear that if
another penny were shaved off taxes and State revenues do not come forward, the City would be in
a difficult position, and his recommendation would then be not to send officers to the Police
Academy or to defer major public improvements like road work or vehicle purchases. Mr. Koenig
indicated that this would put the City back into a position of trying to catch up, and the cost to pave
a road does not got down while waiting another year.
In response to Mr. Lewis, Mr. Koenig stated that he did not bring an alternate budget tonight.
Noting that he had heard series of concerns pertaining to electric rates, especially with larger users,
Mr. Hutchison stated that an alternative must be developed. He expressed support for the budget;
however, he felt that the City could not continue to do what it was doing.
Mr. Koenig responded that, from a competitiveness standpoint, he was not happy that the City was
proposing an increase to commercial electric grades. He stated that, as of today, the City of Dover
had the lowest residential rates in the State, including all municipalities that have utilities, the
Delaware Electric Cooperative, and Delmarva Power. However, the City is not nearly as competitive
as Mr. Koenig believed it should be in commercial classifications. He felt that the City must work
with its larger customers to figure out how to jointly reduce peak demands, help them with demand
charges and energy efficiency programs, and see if they are willing to partner with green energy
proposals related to solar, wind, or some other aspect of energy management. He stated the goal to
work on an integrated resource plan that may allow projects like battery storage to move forward in
the future. Mr. Koenig indicated that these are long-term things that the City must discuss with
customers for the benefit of both the City and individual. He stated concern that the City’s load
profile looks flat. Although there are some businesses that seem to be increasing their demand, every
time a residential house replaces a new A/C unit, that new unit is much more efficient than the last
unit and has the potential to use less power. He expressed the difficulty of determining how to
reduce cost due to the dynamics of electric rate design and the electric system, noting the need to
meet with experts in the electric utility and with customers to figure out how to reduce rates. Based
on tonight's discussion, Mr. Koenig’s recommendation would be to increase the rates and then begin
a metric to bring forward a plan to benefit customers, specifically commercial customers, as well as
the City, with the overall goal to reduce commercial rates to attract businesses. He noted that
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 39
commercial and residential rates had come down substantially over the last four (4) years. While
this would be a 3% or 3.5% percent rate increase, over the last three (3) budget years there had been
a reduction of more than 25% in electric rates.
Mr. Anderson inquired if Mr. Koenig was concerned regarding planned job increases and expansions
on the industrial side that seemed to be dragging on, noting that some of the complaints received
related to Kraft and Procter & Gamble, others to electric rates, which are 25% higher than for
instance, Federalsburg or other places near Dover. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that some of the
businesses that staff had spoken to were not very sensitive to the electric rate. He explained that a
budget could not be designed that addresses the needs of every single customer. Mr. Koenig stated
that staff was very concerned about the electric rates, but the increase in the transfer from $8M to
$10M from the Electric Fund influenced electric rates. This action was taken to defer a tax increase
last year. Mr. Koenig emphasized that this is a total City budget and it is necessary to look at the
total package. Even if electric costs were lower, there would be no guarantee that these businesses
would add jobs, since they may make a decision that it is in their best interest to take jobs away from
the City, and the City would be left with the remnants. Mr. Koenig stated that it is difficult to design
a budget or service solely based on the input from the customers in this type of environment. The
City uses its utilities to fund other operations and this is a difficult, multiple input equation.
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of Proposed Ordinance #2015-11 as presented, seconded by Mr. Cole.
Mr. Hare commented that approximately $600,000 would be carried over from last year and put into
the City’s unfunded liabilities.
Mr. Koenig stated that this was in accordance with Council policies.
Mr. Hare stated that this could be suspended for year to help offset some of the increase. In addition,
he stated that a freeze could be put on hiring the new electric position until some more definitive
information is obtained regarding what the City will do in the electric area. He stated that this would
be a savings of $150,000.
Mr. Koenig stated that if the $600,000 of projected savings from the current year were moved
forward, this would violate the policies that Council had guided staff to use in developing the
operating budget. He stressed that Council had specifically wanted current revenues to equal current
expenses and that the budget technique of moving money forward was one (1) of the reasons why
the City was now in a difficult position. Mr. Koenig noted that the City did not fund its unfunded
liabilities for many years, and many people were angry and concerned that those liabilities were not
funded. Mr. Koenig stated his opinion that the City had made a lot of headway over the last few
years in funding those bad positions and felt it would not be prudent to keep changing the game
because it had been agreed that this is how the budget would be prepared.
Mr. Koenig reminded members that the assistant generation manager position was included in the
budget for half a year. He indicated that a motion was made previously that he believed would
handicap his ability to recruit for that position because he now has to come back to Council to ask
for it. The impact to the Electric Fund for half a year would be approximately $75,000 at most,
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 40
which would not eliminate the proposed rate increase. Mr. Koenig expressed his belief that if
Council is truly serious about working with its largest customers, this technical expertise must be
on board so that improvements, rates, and policies can be designed to create a partnership to help
reduce rates in the long term. The assistant general manager position at the power plant was
proposed to protect the City’s interest in a facility that has hundreds of millions of dollars of value
today and a potential output every year of millions of dollars. Mr. Koenig stated that the value to
the system is approximately $8M per year, equating to $80M over a 10-year period and he felt that
the City must think about succession planning and the protection of the utility for the long run.
Noting that the City had been in the electric generation business since roughly 1900, Mr. Koenig
advised members that owning generation acts as a physical hedge to help keep the cost of buying
power lower than it would be without those assets. He stated that the experts working for the City
were telling Mr. Koenig that it would be prudent to take a preemptive approach and request the
hiring of the assistant generation manager, and he felt it was a worthwhile position to put in the
budget.
Noting that the utility Mr. Koenig was speaking of was 56 or 57 years old and runs on oil, Mr. Hare
questioned what it would cost if one (1) of the generators goes down. Responding, Mr. Koenig
stated that the plant runs on duel fuel and runs on oil, if necessary, in the wintertime; in the summer
it would run on gas, if it were available. The replacement value was well over $100M and the
economic value of this, as an asset was at least the amount of the replacement value.
Mr. Hare stated that utility experts question why the City still has a plant that is 56 years old, stating
that money was being poured into a black hole. He felt that it should either be upgraded to make it
efficient so that it could run like the new Calpine plant or be scrapped. He indicated that some say
they have plants that are 40-45 years old that they scrap and build new ones or do something else.
Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that it would be technically infeasible to make the City’s plant as
efficient as the brand new Calpine plant and a new plant would have to be built.
Mr. Hare questioned if the City was better off putting millions into its plant and keeping it at half
efficiency when it was unknown beyond another year if the grid would continue to pay the City. In
response, Mr. Koenig stated the projections had been made to be cash positive for five (5) years.
Mr. Hare stated that this was provided the grid continues to give the City $10M per year.
Responding, Mr. Koenig indicated that this was based on the best available data.
Mr. Hare stated that the City was looking at signing a new contract with the company to keep its
60-year-old plant available for a three (3) to five (5) year contract and it was unknown if the grid
would continue to give the City the money to offset this contract. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated
that this was based on current history.
Mr. Lewis stated that he had been on Council for a little over a month, along with four (4) other
colleagues. He indicated that some say it was wrong for them to be hit with this tax burden;
however, he stated this was the job that they were elected to do. He noted that no one present,
including himself, had all the answers and that is why Council relies on Mr. Koenig, Mrs. Mitchell,
and Mrs. Townshend, because they are the experts. Mr. Lewis stated his understanding that
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 41
Mr. Koenig had an alternate budget that Mr. Lewis understood would take the tax increase down.
He asked for information on this. Mr. Lewis expressed his understanding of the need to increase
manpower for the police, stating his belief that public safety was essential, and he was aware that
the infrastructure needed repair; however, he felt there were other things that could be nickeled and
dimed to get the tax rate down.
Mr. Koenig stated that this approach would not achieve a significant change to the tax, noting that
$300,000 of General Fund expense equates to one (1) penny off the tax rate. He indicated that staff
had presented every divisional budget and given Council the opportunity to cut wherever they chose,
and Council had authorized cuts down to 40.5 cents.
In regard to the alternate plan he referenced earlier, Mr. Koenig stated that this related to the things
that the City would not be able to do if State revenue does not come in as projected; there was no
alternative plan available tonight.
Mr. Lewis stated that he could not support an increase of this percentage.
Mr. Anderson moved to amend the grounds budget to a level of $1,375,000, for a net savings of
$37,000, seconded by Mr. Sudler.
Mr. Koenig stated that this was an allocated fund; therefore, this would result in approximately
$14,000 in General Fund savings.
In response to Mr. Sudler regarding the impact on operational necessities, Mr. Koenig stated that he
was unsure how a reduction of $37,000 would impact the grounds budget, because the current
motion was the first time he had heard anything regarding this matter.
Mr. Hosfelt questioned how the amount of $37,000 was arrived at. Mr. Anderson stated that this
would allow increases in temporary help, increases in health care, and purchases of materials and
small tools, but would take away any increase above that.
Mr. Neil expressed his opinion that this budget would be an investment in this City. He stated that
accountants tell you what you should do; you do not have to do it, and that staff are the City’s
accountants who way what will work for the City. In addition, Mr. Neil stated that shopping malls
and restaurants refurbish their facilities and make them look better so that people will come in.
Mr. Neil felt that investing in the City and bringing up the values of the homes would raise the
evaluation, which would raise tax income without people paying higher taxes, because the values
would go up. Mr. Neil stated that with NASCAR and the Firefly and Big Barrel music festivals,
hotels were filling up, and if they were doing better business, they would pay higher taxes. Mr. Neil
expressed the desire to keep taxes down for the people here and provide them with the police to give
greater security, which would also bring people in. Mr. Neil stated, for this reason, that he would
oppose the amendment and support the budget as presented.
Mr. Hare stated that he did not disagree with Mr. Neil, but Mr. Hare stated that did not have all the
information. He indicated that it may not be necessary to raise taxes, but he did not have the
information. Mr. Hare stated that the City does not know if its insurance rates are the best. He felt
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 42
that businesses and hotels do more due diligence, and if something is not efficient they change it and
make sure it is more efficient, and they have the information they need make their decision.
Mr. Hare stated that he did not feel he had the information to make an educated guess and tell the
people that he was sorry, but this was the easy way out.
The motion to amend the grounds budget to a level of $1,375,000 for a net savings of $37,000 failed
by a roll call vote of seven (7) no (Sudler, Neil Cole, Hosfelt, Hare, Hutchison, and Slavin) and two
(2) yes (Anderson and Lewis).
Mr. Anderson moved to remove the bonuses for those earning $75,000 and above from the budget
and that they be deferred to a supplemental budget for department heads to find more savings to
cover them, seconded by Mr. Lewis.
Mr. Hosfelt stated that, going back to his previous employment status as the Chief of Police, he did
not know how he would have found room to chop that budget any more to give himself a pay raise.
He felt that this goes against everything that should be done as a supervisor, leader, city manager,
or a department head. Mr. Hosfelt felt it unfair to ask those whom Council had hired and put a lot
of trust into to do this. He felt that ultimately they were being asked to sacrifice others, or things that
should be done for employees, so that they can receive a pay raise. For this reason, he indicated that
he would not support this.
In response to Mr. Sudler, Mr. Koenig reiterated that the impact would be $29,300 in the revised
budget and would affect 15 people.
Mr. Hare did not think there was anything wrong with a 2% bonus; however, he felt that this 2%
should not be approved now. He stated that these individuals should earn the 2% next year and see
if they could get it again and again.
Responding to Mr. Sudler in regard to employees earning less than $75,000, Mr. Koenig stated that
non-bargaining employees making less than $75,000 would receive a 3% adjustment to their base
salary.
The motion to remove the bonuses for those earning $75,000 and above from the budget and that
they be deferred to a supplemental budget for department heads to find more savings to cover them
failed by a roll call vote of seven (7) no (Sudler, Neil, Cole, Hosfelt, Hare, Hutchison, and Slavin)
and two (2) yes (Anderson and Lewis).
The motion to adopt Ordinance #2015-11, as presented, (Exhibit #1) was carried by a roll call
vote of six (6) yes (Sudler, Neil, Cole, Hosfelt, Hutchison, and Slavin) and three (3) no
(Anderson, Lewis, and Hare).
The motion to accept the tax rates and for adoption of Ordinance #2015-10 (Exhibit #2) was
carried by a roll call vote of six (6) yes (Sudler, Neil, Cole, Hosfelt, Hutchison, and Slavin) and
three (3) no (Anderson, Lewis, and Hare).
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 22, 2015 PAGE 43
COUNCIL MEMBERS’ ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Sudler stated that the budget process had been a learning experience for him and all that had
been done, including cutting, had been tough. He stated that this evening’s discussion in regard to
whether the budget could be reduced further and how much impact this would have were the
determining factors in his decision. He expressed hope that his constituents would understand his
belief that Council had done all that could be done to get the budget to a reasonable level.
Mr. Slavin expressed appreciation for the spirit in which members brought their concerns. He
indicated that Mr. Anderson’s and Mr. Lewis’ concerns were duly noted and he looked forward to
working with them on those concerns going forward. Noting Mr. Hare’s comment that Council had
taken the easy route by raising taxes, Mr. Slavin said he did not think any other member of Council
used the phrase, "It was easy to raise property taxes." Mr. Slavin indicated there was nothing easy
about it in his mind, and expressed his belief that he spoke for a number of members of Council. In
the spirit of civility and the spirit of our City, he thanked everyone for their work on the budget,
including staff and members of Council, and especially Mr. Koenig and Mrs. Mitchell.
Mr. Anderson invited everyone to attend the African American Festival, “Positively Dover”, stating
that this is a non-exclusive event that is a celebration of culture for all people. He stated that the
event would be held Saturday, June 27, 2015 at Legislative Mall from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and
encouraged everyone to come and enjoy the music, dance, and other entertainment.
Mr. Neil moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Lewis and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m.
TRACI A. McDOWELL
CITY CLERK
All orders, ordinances, and resolutions adopted by City Council during their Regular Meeting of
June 22, 2015, are hereby approved.
ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
MAYOR
/TM
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\Council-Minutes\2015\06-22-2015.wpd
Exhibits
Exhibit #1 - Ordinance #2015-11 - 2015-2016 City of Dover Budget Ordinances
Exhibit #2 - Ordinance #2015-10 - Notification of Tax Rate Increase Over the Rolled Back Tax Rate
Página 44
Exhibit #1
Regular City Council Meeting of 06/22/2015
CITY OF DOVER ORDINANCE # 2015-11
2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Forty Five Million Three Hundred Four Thousand Six Hundred
dollars ($45,304,600) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current revenues and
other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the fiscal year beginning
July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
GENERAL FUND
CASH RECEIPT SUMMARY FOR 2015-2016
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE $ 4,361,500 $ 3,977,500
RECEIPTS
FINES AND POLICE REVENUE 629,300 702,300
INVESTMENT INCOME 40,000 35,000
LIBRARY REVENUES 71,600 72,000
KENT COUNTY BOOK REIMBURSEMENT 490,000 450,000
BUSINESS LICENSES 1,460,000 1,425,000
PERMITS AND OTHER FEES 1,354,200 1,436,300
MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES 27,600 22,700
POLICE EXTRA DUTY 659,500 533,000
PROPERTY TAXES 11,086,800 12,844,500
BID REVENUE 49,500 49,700
RECREATION REVENUE 148,800 149,000
FRANCHISE FEE 656,400 672,300
SANITATION FEES 2,580,000 2,580,000
RENT REVENUE - GARRISON FARM 92,300 93,700
COURT OF CHANCERY FEES 1,074,400 1,065,100
RECEIPTS SUBTOTAL 20,420,400 22,130,600
INTERFUND SERVICE RECEIPTS
INTRAFUND SERVICE RECEIPTS W/WW 1,371,100 1,492,700
INTRAFUND SERVICE RECEIPTS ELECTRIC 3,588,200 3,738,500
INTERFUND SERVICE RECEIPTS SUBTOTAL 4,959,300 5,231,200
GRANTS:
POLICE RELATED/EXTRA DUTY 124,000 74,400
POLICE PENSION GRANT 500,000 500,000
GREEN ENERGY GRANT 98,500 98,500
MISC GRANT REVENUE 25,000 25,000
VERIZON RESERVE - 50,000
GRANTS SUBTOTAL 747,500 747,900
TRANSFERS FROM:
TRANSFER TAX 1,525,200 1,340,000
MUNICIPAL STREET AID 664,200 564,200
CIVIL TRAFFIC PENALTIES 450,000 450,000
WATER/WASTEWATER 500,000 850,000
ELECTRIC 10,000,000 10,000,000
OTHER RESERVES 4,000 13,200
CONTINGENCY FUND 50,000 -
BOND PROCEEDS - SERIES 2014 475,000 -
TRANSFERS FROM SUBTOTAL 13,668,400 13,217,400
TOTAL REVENUES 39,795,600 41,327,100
TOTAL BEGINNING BALANCE & REVENUE $ 44,157,100 $ 45,304,600
1
Página 45
2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
GENERAL FUND - EXPENDITURES AND BUDGET BALANCE FOR 2015-2016
2014/15 2015/16
DEPARTMENT EXPENSES REVISED BUDGET
CITY CLERK $ 386,700 $ 383,400
COUNCIL 106,600 118,100
TAX ASSESSOR 319,100 234,800
FIRE 716,100 745,400
GROUNDS MAINTENANCE 1,130,900 1,210,300
LIBRARY 1,422,000 1,510,000
RECREATION 710,800 729,500
LIFE SAFETY 534,600 482,200
CODE ENFORCEMENT 420,500 419,400
PLANNING 449,400 534,000
INSPECTIONS 614,400 664,700
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 223,000 238,000
POLICE 14,338,900 15,159,000
POLICE EXTRA DUTY 712,500 602,400
STREETS 676,200 674,500
SANITATION 2,224,800 2,157,900
CITY MANAGER 595,900 750,300
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 736,600 704,800
FINANCE 970,000 978,500
PUBLIC WORKS - ADMINISTRATION 518,100 626,800
FACILITIES MANAGEMENT 690,400 707,500
PUBLIC WORKS - ENGINEERING 193,700 181,400
PROCUREMENT & INVENTORY 542,800 560,200
FLEET MAINTENANCE 799,700 768,500
CUSTOMER SERVICE 1,044,600 1,120,100
HUMAN RESOURCES 385,500 383,900
MAYOR 82,500 76,100
DEPARTMENT SUBTOTALS 31,546,300 32,721,700
OTHER EXPENSES
DEBT SERVICE 948,400 660,800
CONTRIBUTION TO DDP 70,000 70,000
MISCELLANEOUS GRANT RELATED EXP 25,000 25,000
INSURANCE 675,000 690,000
RETIREES HEALTH CARE 1,636,500 1,895,600
OTHER EMPLOYMENT EXPENSES 74,900 520,100
BANK & CREDIT CARD FEES - 15,000
UNCOLLECTIBLES - TRASH AND OTHER 50,000 50,000
STREET LIGHTS (APPROP TO STREET LGT FUND) 774,500 797,700
OTHER EXPENSE SUBTOTAL 4,254,300 4,724,200
TRANSFERS
TRANSFER TO CAPITAL ASSET RESERVE 60,000 -
TRANSFER TO CAPITAL FUND - PROJECTS 2,196,000 2,625,400
APPROP. TO THE POLICE PENSION FUND 755,000 570,000
APPROP. POLICE PENSION - STATE GRANT 500,000 500,000
APPROP. TO THE GENERAL PENSION FUND 543,000 -
TRANSFER TO CONTINGENCY RESERVE 300,000 -
TRANSFER TO PARKLAND RESERVE 25,000 -
TRANSFER TO VERIZON RESERVE - 50,000
TRANSFER TO INVENTORY WRITE-OFFS - 10,000
TRANSFERS SUBTOTAL 4,379,000 3,755,400
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 40,179,600 41,201,300
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE 3,977,500 4,103,300
TOTALS $ 44,157,100 $ 45,304,600
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
2
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Two Million Eight Hundred Five Thousand Five Hundred dollars
($2,805,500) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current revenues and other
funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2015
and ending June 30, 2016:
GOVERNMENTAL CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND
REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
REVENUES
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE - PROJECTS $ 2,654,600 $ 154,800
REVENUES
STATE GRANTS - Other 208,000 -
PROPOSED BOND/BANK PROCEEDS - Street 2,675,000 -
LEASE PURCHASE OF FIRE AND POLICE EQUIPT 918,300 -
INCOME FROM SALE OF ASSETS - 20,300
INTEREST EARNINGS - 5,000
TRANSFER FROM GENERAL FUND 2,196,000 2,625,400
TRANSFER FROM PARKLAND RESERVE 104,000 -
SUBTOTAL PROJECT RECEIPTS 6,101,300 2,650,700
TOTAL FUNDING SOURCES 6,101,300 2,650,700
TOTAL BEGINNING BALANCE AND REVENUES $ 8,755,900 $ 2,805,500
EXPENSE SUMMARY
2014/15 2015/16
EXPENDITURES REVISED BUDGET
FIRE $ 827,300 $ 145,600
GROUNDS MAINTENANCE 86,700 201,100
RECREATION 284,400 -
LIFE SAFETY - 55,700
POLICE 601,700 262,100
STREETS 470,300 1,428,500
STREETS - GARRISON FARM INFRASTRUCTURE 5,447,600 -
SANITATION 256,500 449,000
CITY MANAGER - 24,700
PROCUREMENT & INVENTORY 55,000 -
FLEET MAINTENANCE - 84,000
DEPARTMENT SUBTOTAL 8,029,500 2,650,700
TRANSFERS & MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSES
BOND/LOAN ISSUANCE COST 61,100 -
TRANSFER TO PARKLAND RESERVE 180,000 -
TRANSFER TO CAPITAL ASSET RESERVE 330,500 -
TRANSFERS & MISCELLANEOUS SUBTOTAL 571,600 -
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 8,601,100 2,650,700
BUDGET BALANCE 154,800 154,800
TOTAL BUDGET BALANCE & EXPENDITURES $ 8,755,900 $ 2,805,500
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
3
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
GENERAL FUND CONTINGENCY
CASH RECEIPTS/REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Seven Hundred Twenty Thousand Three Hundred
dollars ($720,300) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current
revenues and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the
fiscal year beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
CASH RECEIPTS
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE $ 467,300 $ 719,200
INTEREST EARNED 1,900 1,100
TRANSFER FROM GENERAL FUND 300,000 -
TOTALS $ 769,200 $ 720,300
EXPENSE SUMMARY
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
TRANSFER TO OPERATING ACCOUNT $ 50,000 $ -
CARRY FORWARD TO NEXT YEAR 719,200 720,300
TOTALS $ 769,200 $ 720,300
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
4
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
GENERAL CAPITAL ASSET RESERVE
CASH RECEIPTS/REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Nine Hundred Sixteen Thousand Five Hundred ($916,500) or
so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current revenues and
other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the fiscal year
beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
CASH RECEIPTS
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE $ 521,000 $ 914,000
RECEIPTS
INTEREST EARNINGS 2,500 2,500
TRANSFER FROM GENERAL FUND CAPITAL PROJECT FUND 330,500 -
TRANSFER FROM GENERAL FUND 60,000 -
TOTAL RECEIPTS 393,000 2,500
TOTALS $ 914,000 $ 916,500
EXPENSE SUMMARY
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
CARRY FORWARD TO NEXT YEAR $ 914,000 $ 916,500
TOTALS $ 914,000 $ 916,500
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
5
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
PARKLAND/RECREATION RESERVE
CASH RECEIPTS/REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Two Hundred Ninety Six Thousand Seven Hundred Dollars
($296,700) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current revenues
and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the fiscal
year beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
OPERATING REVENUES
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
PRIOR YEAR BALANCE $ 218,700 $ 295,700
GENERAL FUND APPROPRIATION 180,000 -
INTEREST INCOME 1,000 1,000
TOTALS $ 399,700 $ 296,700
OPERATING EXPENSES
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
TRANSFER TO GENERAL CAPITAL PROJECT FUND $ 104,000 $ -
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE 295,700 296,700
TOTALS $ 399,700 $ 296,700
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
6
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
WATER/WASTEWATER FUND
REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Sixteen Million Eight Hundred Eighty Two Thousand Seven Hundred
dollars ($16,882,700) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current
revenues and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the
fiscal year beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE - WATER $ 783,500 $ 861,600
BEGINNING BALANCE - WASTEWATER 19,900 293,400
TOTAL BEGINNING BALANCES 803,400 1,155,000
BASE REVENUE
WATER SERVICES 4,616,400 6,200,000
WASTEWATER SERVICES 3,706,800 3,728,000
WASTEWATER TREATMENT SERVICES 2,902,600 3,026,500
GROUNDWATER INFLOW ADJUSTMENT 1,862,500 1,864,300
WATER TANK SPACE LEASING 331,900 341,900
SEWER IMPACT FEES 416,700 250,000
WATER IMPACT FEES 462,400 250,000
INTEREST - WATER 9,000 1,000
INTEREST - WASTEWATER 14,000 2,000
MISCELLANEOUS SERVICE FEE 64,000 64,000
TOTAL REVENUES 14,386,300 15,727,700
TOTAL BEGINNING BALANCES AND REVENUES $ 15,189,700 $ 16,882,700
7
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
WATER/WASTEWATER FUND - EXPENSES AND BUDGET BALANCE FOR 2015-2016
2014/15 2015/16
DIRECT EXPENSES REVISED BUDGET
ENGINEERING & INSPECTION $ 502,400 $ 517,500
WATER CONSTRUCTION 253,300 -
WATER DEPARTMENT 488,600 673,300
WATER TREATMENT PLANT 1,582,200 1,910,000
WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT 975,400 968,600
DIRECT EXPENDITURE SUBTOTAL 3,801,900 4,069,400
OTHER EXPENSES
DEBT SERVICE - WATER 560,100 545,200
DEBT SERVICE - WASTEWATER 591,900 586,900
RETIREES HEALTH CARE 200,000 178,600
OTHER EMPLOYMENT EXPENSES 5,500 20,000
KENT COUNTY TREATMENT CHARGE 4,004,200 4,130,000
INTRAFUND SERVICE FEES 1,371,100 1,492,700
BANK & CREDIT CARD FEES - 46,200
OTHER EXPENSES SUBTOTAL 6,732,800 6,999,600
TRANSFER TO:
GENERAL FUND FROM WATER 250,000 550,000
GENERAL FUND FROM WASTEWATER 250,000 300,000
WATER IMP AND EXT 1,200,000 1,800,000
WASTEWATER IMP AND EXT 1,800,000 1,500,000
CONTINGENCY RESERVE WATER - 32,000
TRANSFER TO SUBTOTAL 3,500,000 4,182,000
TOTAL EXPENSES 14,034,700 15,251,000
BUDGET BALANCES
BUDGET BALANCE WATER 861,600 1,048,600
BUDGET BALANCE WASTEWATER 293,400 583,100
BUDGET BALANCE SUBTOTALS 1,155,000 1,631,700
TOTAL CURRENT YEAR BALANCES AND EXPENSES $ 15,189,700 $ 16,882,700
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
8
Página 52
2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
WATER/WASTEWATER IMPROVEMENT & EXTENSION FUND
CASH RECEIPTS/REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Five Million Three Hundred Seventy Nine Thousand Four Hundred
dollars ($5,379,400) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current revenues
and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the fiscal year beginning
July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
CASH RECEIPTS
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE - WATER $ 7,178,100 $ 833,500
BEGINNING BALANCE - WASTEWATER 5,677,600 1,055,900
TOTAL BEGINNING BALANCES 12,855,700 1,889,400
REVENUES
TRANS FR OPERATING FUND - WATER 1,200,000 1,800,000
TRANS FR OPERATING FUND - WASTEWATER 1,800,000 1,500,000
TRANSFER FR WASTEWATER IMPACT FEE 1,315,600 165,000
INTEREST INCOME 40,000 25,000
TOTAL REVENUES 4,355,600 3,490,000
TOTAL BEGINNING BALANCES & REVENUES $ 17,211,300 $ 5,379,400
EXPENSE SUMMARY
2014/15 2015/16
EXPENSES REVISED BUDGET
WATER $ 7,526,500 $ 2,028,600
WASTEWATER 7,785,600 1,822,100
WATER TREATMENT PLANT 38,100 -
TOTAL EXPENSES 15,350,200 3,850,700
BUDGET BALANCE - WATER 833,500 617,400
BUDGET BALANCE - WASTEWATER 1,027,600 911,300
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE SUBTOTALS 1,861,100 1,528,700
TOTAL BUDGET BALANCES & EXPENSES $ 17,211,300 $ 5,379,400
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
9
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
WATER/WASTEWATER CAPITAL ASSET RESERVE
CASH RECEIPTS/REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating One Million Thirty Three Thousand Seven Hundred Dollars
($1,033,700) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current
revenues and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for
the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
CASH RECEIPTS
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE - WATER $ 508,400 $ 514,600
BEGINNING BALANCE - WASTEWATER 507,300 511,300
TOTAL BEGINNING BALANCES 1,015,700 1,025,900
RECEIPTS
INTEREST EARNINGS - WATER 900 3,900
INTEREST EARNINGS - WASTEWATER 900 3,900
2013 BONDS UNUSED COST OF ISSUANCE FUNDS WATER 5,300 -
2013 BONDS UNUSED COST OF ISSUANCE FUNDS WASTEWATER 3,100 -
TOTAL RECEIPTS 10,200 7,800
TOTALS $ 1,025,900 $ 1,033,700
EXPENSE SUMMARY
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE - WATER $ 514,600 $ 518,500
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE - WASTEWATER 511,300 515,200
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE SUBTOTALS 1,025,900 1,033,700
TOTALS $ 1,025,900 $ 1,033,700
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
10
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
WATER/WASTEWATER IMPACT FEE RESERVE
CASH RECEIPTS/REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating One Million Six Hundred Seventy Six Thousand Five Hundred Dollars
($1,676,500) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current
revenues and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for
the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
CASH RECEIPTS
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE - WATER $ 200,200 $ 200,500
BEGINNING BALANCE - WASTEWATER 2,776,400 1,463,400
TOTAL BEGINNING BALANCES 2,976,600 1,663,900
RECEIPTS
INTEREST EARNINGS - WATER 300 1,500
INTEREST EARNINGS - WASTEWATER 2,600 11,100
TOTAL RECEIPTS 2,900 12,600
TOTALS $ 2,979,500 $ 1,676,500
EXPENSE SUMMARY
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
TRANSFER TO I & E FUND FROM WASTEWATER IMPACT FEES $ 1,315,600 $ 165,000
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE - WATER 200,500 202,000
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE - WASTEWATER 1,463,400 1,309,500
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE SUBTOTALS 1,663,900 1,511,500
TOTALS $ 2,979,500 $ 1,676,500
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
11
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
WATER/WASTEWATER CONTINGENCY RESERVE
CASH RECEIPTS/REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Three Hundred Twenty Eight Thousand Eight Hundred dollars
($328,800) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current revenues
and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the fiscal year
beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
CASH RECEIPTS
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE - WATER $ 104,700 $ 104,900
BEGINNING BALANCE - WASTEWATER 189,400 189,700
TOTAL BEGINNING BALANCES 294,100 294,600
RECEIPTS
INTEREST EARNINGS 500 2,200
TRANSFER FROM OPERATING ACCOUNT TO WATER - 32,000
TOTAL RECEIPTS 500 34,200
TOTALS $ 294,600 $ 328,800
BUDGET SUMMARY
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE - WATER 104,900 137,700
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE - WASTEWATER 189,700 191,100
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE SUBTOTALS 294,600 328,800
TOTAL EXPENSES AND CURRENT YEAR BALANCES $ 294,600 $ 328,800
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
12
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
ELECTRIC REVENUE FUND
REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Eighty Nine Million Seven Hundred Thirteen Thousand Six Hundred
dollars ($89,713,600) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby
appropriated from current revenues and other funds for the use by several departments of the
Municipal Government for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE $ 6,602,900 $ 6,177,600
BASE REVENUE
DIRECT SALES TO CUSTOMER 76,543,700 78,279,200
UTILITY TAX 1,258,300 1,281,100
MISCELLANEOUS REVENUE 624,000 597,200
RENT REVENUE 200,000 202,600
GREEN ENERGY 128,000 128,000
INTEREST EARNINGS 12,000 47,900
TRANSFER FROM RATE STABILIZATION 3,000,000 3,000,000
TOTAL REVENUES 81,766,000 83,536,000
TOTAL BEGINNING BALANCE & REVENUES 88,368,900 89,713,600
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ELECTRIC REVENUE FUND - CONTINUED
EXPENSES AND BUDGET BALANCE FOR 2015-2016
2014/15 2015/16
EXPENSES REVISED BUDGET
POWER SUPPLY $ 26,035,900 $ 23,402,600
SOLAR ENERGY 2,002,700 2,313,900
SOLAR RENEWAL ENERGY CREDITS 375,500 363,400
POWER SUPPLY MANAGEMENT 996,000 996,000
REC'S (Renewable Energy Credits) 555,400 673,400
RGGI (Regional Greenhouse Gas Init.) - 175,000
PJM CHARGES - ENERGY 10,076,200 7,966,100
PJM CHARGES - TRANSMISSION & FEES 4,480,800 7,932,500
CAPACITY CHARGES 9,744,100 10,225,100
SUB-TOTAL POWER SUPPLY 54,266,600 54,048,000
PLANT OPERATIONS 6,141,100 6,434,600
GENERATIONS FUELS 1,873,400 1,167,300
PJM SPOT MARKET ENERGY (2,834,600) (1,708,300)
PJM CREDITS (663,700) (360,000)
CAPACITY CREDITS (8,742,100) (10,472,100)
GENERATION SUBTOTAL (4,225,900) (4,938,500)
POWER SUPPLY & GENERATION SUBTOTAL 50,040,700 49,109,500
DIRECT EXPENDITURES
TRANSMISSION/DISTRIBUTION 3,954,900 4,068,600
ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING 1,379,300 1,335,800
ADMINISTRATION 632,400 839,300
METER READING 357,200 360,500
SYSTEMS OPERATIONS 696,500 679,800
DIRECT EXPENDITURE SUBTOTALS 7,020,300 7,284,000
OTHER EXPENSES:
UTILITY TAX 1,258,300 1,281,100
ALLOW FOR UNCOLLECTIBLES 200,000 200,000
CONTRACTUAL SERVICES - RFP'S 246,800 -
RETIREES HEALTH CARE 513,300 537,800
OTHER EMPLOYMENT EXPENSES 24,000 72,000
OPEB UNFUNDED LIABILITY 1,009,800 1,030,000
GREEN ENERGY PAYMENT TO DEMEC 128,000 128,000
INTRAFUND SERVICE FEES 3,588,200 3,738,500
INTEREST ON DEPOSITS 20,000 20,500
BANK & CREDIT CARD FEES - 242,300
DEBT SERVICE 3,391,900 3,402,000
OTHER EXPENSES SUBTOTAL 10,380,300 10,652,200
TRANSFER TO:
IMPROVEMENT & EXTENSION 4,750,000 3,500,000
GENERAL FUND 10,000,000 10,000,000
TRANSFER INSURANCE RESERVE - 10,000
TRANSFER CONTINGENCY RESERVE - 13,000
TRANSFER TO SUBTOTAL 14,750,000 13,523,000
TOTAL EXPENSES 82,191,300 80,568,700
BUDGET BALANCE - WORKING CAPITAL 6,177,600 9,144,900
TOTALS $ 88,368,900 $ 89,713,600
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
14
Página 58
2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
ELECTRIC UTILITY IMPROVEMENT AND EXTENSION FUND
CASH RECEIPTS/REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Nine Million Fifty Thousand Three Hundred
dollars ($9,050,300) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current
revenues and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the
fiscal year beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
REVENUES
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE $ 5,942,500 $ 3,623,600
REVENUES
TRANSFER FROM ELECTRIC 4,750,000 3,500,000
GENERAL SERVICE BILLING 250,000 1,900,000
INTEREST EARNINGS 24,800 26,700
TOTAL REVENUES 5,024,800 5,426,700
TOTALS $ 10,967,300 $ 9,050,300
EXPENSE SUMMARY
2014/15 2015/16
EXPENSES REVISED BUDGET
ELECTRIC GENERATION $ 2,739,300 $ 1,655,000
TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION 1,854,200 2,887,600
ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING 2,750,200 1,724,300
TOTAL EXPENSES 7,343,700 6,266,900
BUDGET BALANCE 3,623,600 2,783,400
TOTAL BUDGET BALANCE & EXPENSES $ 10,967,300 $ 9,050,300
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
15
Página 59
2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
ELECTRIC UTILITY CONTINGENCY RESERVE
CASH RECEIPTS/REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Eight Hundred Fourty Four Thousand Six Hundred dollars
($844,600) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current revenues
and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the fiscal year
beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
CASH RECEIPTS
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE $ 819,100 $ 825,300
RECEIPTS
INTEREST EARNINGS 6,200 6,300
TRANSFER FROM ELECTRIC FUND - 13,000
TOTAL RECEIPTS 6,200 19,300
TOTALS $ 825,300 $ 844,600
EXPENSE SUMMARY
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE 825,300 844,600
TOTALS $ 825,300 $ 844,600
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
16
Página 60
2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
ELECTRIC UTILITY DEPRECIATION RESERVE
SOURCES AND USE OF FUNDS FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Ten Million Sixty Six Thousand
Four Hundred dollars ($10,066,400) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby
appropriated from current revenues and other funds for the use by several departments of the
Municipal Government for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
CASH RECEIPTS
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE $ 9,915,100 $ 9,990,500
INTEREST EARNINGS 75,400 75,900
TOTALS $ 9,990,500 $ 10,066,400
BUDGET SUMMARY
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE 9,990,500 10,066,400
TOTALS $ 9,990,500 $ 10,066,400
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
17
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
ELECTRIC UTILITY FUTURE CAPACITY RESERVE
SOURCES AND USE OF FUNDS FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Ten Million Two Hundred Eighteen Thousand
dollars ($10,218,000) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current revenues
and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the fiscal year
beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
CASH RECEIPTS
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE $ 10,064,400 $ 10,140,900
INTEREST EARNINGS 76,500 77,100
TOTALS $ 10,140,900 $ 10,218,000
BUDGET SUMMARY
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE 10,140,900 10,218,000
TOTALS $ 10,140,900 $ 10,218,000
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
ELECTRIC UTILITY INSURANCE STABLIZATION RESERVE
SOURCES AND USE OF FUNDS FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Seven Hundred Fifty Eight Thousand Seven Hundred dollars
($758,700) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current revenues
and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the fiscal year
beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
CASH RECEIPTS
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE $ 737,500 $ 743,100
INTEREST EARNINGS 5,600 5,600
TRANSFER FROM ELECTRIC FUND - 10,000
TOTALS $ 743,100 $ 758,700
BUDGET SUMMARY
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE 743,100 758,700
TOTALS $ 743,100 $ 758,700
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
ELECTRIC UTILITY RATE STABLIZATION RESERVE
SOURCES AND USE OF FUNDS FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Eight Million Five Hundred Fifty Six Thousand Four Hundred
dollars ($8,556,400) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current
revenues and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for
the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
CASH RECEIPTS
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE $ 10,465,800 $ 7,545,300
INTEREST EARNINGS 79,500 57,300
TOTALS $ 10,545,300 $ 7,602,600
BUDGET SUMMARY
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
TRANSFER TO ELECTRIC FUND $ 3,000,000 $ 3,000,000
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE 7,545,300 4,602,600
TOTALS $ 10,545,300 $ 7,602,600
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
MUNICIPAL STREET AID FUND
CASH RECEIPTS/REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Five Hundred Sixty Four Thousand Three Hundred
dollars ($564,300) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current
revenues and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the
fiscal year beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
CASH RECEIPTS
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE $ 100 $ 100
STATE GRANT 664,200 564,200
TOTALS 664,300 564,300
BUDGET SUMMARY
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
TRANSFER TO GENERAL FUND 664,200 564,200
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE 100 100
TOTALS $ 664,300 $ 564,300
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
WORKERS COMPENSATION FUND
CASH RECEIPTS/REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating One Million Seven Hundred Five Thousand Seven Hundred
dollars ($1,705,700) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current revenues
and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the fiscal year
beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
OPERATING REVENUES
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
BEGINNING BALANCE $ 1,156,700 $ 1,052,600
INTEREST INCOME 10,600 10,600
PREMIUM FROM CITY 490,500 642,500
TOTALS $ 1,657,800 $ 1,705,700
OPERATING EXPENSES
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
PROGRAM EXPENSES/SUPPLIES - CLAIMS $ 450,000 $ 475,000
INSURANCE 92,600 103,900
BANK FEES 600 1,300
STATE OF DEL - SELF INSURANCE TAX 37,000 37,000
CONTRACTUAL SERVICES 25,000 25,000
TOTAL EXPENSES 605,200 642,200
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE 1,052,600 1,063,500
TOTALS $ 1,657,800 $ 1,705,700
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
COMMUNITY TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT FUND
CASH RECEIPTS/REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Six Hundred Fourty Four Thousand Five Hundred
dollars ($644,500) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current revenues
and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the fiscal year
beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
OPERATING REVENUES
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
PRIOR YEAR BALANCE $ 143,500 $ 144,000
GRANTS REVENUE 1,677,800 500,000
INTEREST INCOME 500 500
TOTALS $ 1,821,800 $ 644,500
OPERATING EXPENSES
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
PROGRAM EXP. GRANT RELATED $ 1,677,800 $ 644,000
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE 144,000 500
TOTALS $ 1,821,800 $ 644,500
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
LIBRARY GRANT FUND
CASH RECEIPTS/REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Two Hundred Ninety Eight Thousand Seven Hundred dollars
($298,700) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current revenues
and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the fiscal year
beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
OPERATING REVENUES
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
PRIOR YEAR BALANCE $ 44,800 $ 17,300
STATE GRANT 278,900 278,900
FEDERAL GRANT 2,500 2,500
TOTALS $ 326,200 $ 298,700
OPERATING EXPENSES
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
STATE GRANTS
FURNITURE/FIXTURES $ 15,100 $ 3,100
OFFICE SUPPLIES 28,000 24,000
PRINTING AND DUPLICATING 14,000 13,200
PROGRAM EXPENSES/SUPPLIES 29,900 24,100
BOOKS 132,600 129,200
AUDIO VISUAL SUPPLIES 75,100 75,100
POSTAGE 100 100
TRAINING/CONF/FOOD/TRAV 3,500 2,000
CONTRACTUAL SERVICES 900 900
OFF EQP/REPAIRS & MAINT 6,000 6,000
OTHER EQUIP - LEASE 1,200 1,200
SUBTOTAL EXPENSES STATE GRANTS 306,400 278,900
FEDERAL GRANTS
PROGRAM EXPENSES/SUPPLIES 2,500 2,500
SUBTOTAL EXPENSES FEDERAL GRANTS 2,500 2,500
GRAND TOTAL EXPENSES 308,900 281,400
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE 17,300 17,300
TOTALS $ 326,200 $ 298,700
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
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2015-2016 BUDGET ORDINANCES - CONTINUED
POLICE GRANTS FUND
CASH RECEIPTS/REVENUES AND BUDGET FOR 2015-2016
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
The amount hereinafter named aggregating Six Hundred Fifty Two Thousand Three Hundred dollars
($652,300) or so much thereof as may be necessary are hereby appropriated from current revenues
and other funds for the use by several departments of the Municipal Government for the fiscal year
beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016:
OPERATING REVENUES
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
PRIOR YEAR BALANCE $ 172,100 $ 125,000
STATE AND FEDERAL GRANTS RECEIVED 436,400 527,300
TOTALS 608,500 652,300
OPERATING EXPENSES
2014/15 2015/16
REVISED BUDGET
EXPENDITURES
PERSONNEL EXPENDITURES
CADET PROGRAM SALARIES 16,000 71,400
CADET PROGRAM FICA 1,200 5,400
CADET PROGRAM W/COMP 700 3,500
MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES
POLICE EQUIPT & PROG SUPP 222,600 410,600
TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT 47,800 20,000
ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENDITURES
CELL PHONE CHARGES 15,000 15,000
TRAINING 45,000 17,000
AUDIT FEES 1,000 1,000
CONTRACTUAL SERVICES 10,200 -
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 359,500 543,900
OTHER FINANCING USES
OPERATING TRANSFERS-OUT 124,000 74,400
TOTAL FINANCING USES 124,000 74,400
CURRENT YEAR BALANCE 125,000 34,000
TOTALS $ 608,500 $ 652,300
The above budget represents the combination of all State & Federal Grants.
The City Manager is hereby authorized, without further approval of the City Council, to make
interdepartmental transfers of up to five percent of the amount hereinafter appropriated to any
department with the exception of any transfers prohibited by City Procedure #F306.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
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Exhibit #2
Regular Council Meeting of 06/22/2015
CITY OF DOVER ORDINANCE #2015-10
WHEREAS, the 2014/2015 fiscal year property tax rate for the City of Dover is $.3378 per hundred
of assessed value and the Tax Assessor reported that the total assessed value of property as of
December 31, 2014 was $3,191,130,460, including the April 2015 supplemental billings (2011
Assessed Value); and
WHEREAS, upon completion of the re-evaluation completed in 2015, the Tax Assessor is reporting
the total assessed value in 2015/2016 to be $3,103,526,891; and
WHEREAS, Delaware State Law: 22 Delaware Code Section 1105 (b) requires municipalities to
calculate a "rolled-back" tax rate so as to provide the same tax revenue as was levied during the prior
fiscal year and to state the percent, if any, by which the property tax rate to be levied exceeds the
"rolled-back" property tax rate.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
That the City of Dover "rolled-back" tax rate is $.3499 per hundred of assessed value, and the
2015/2016 tax rate is to be set at $.4050 per hundred of assessed value (estimated at
$3,050,321,691), the increase over the rolled-back tax rate being 15.7%.
ADOPTED: JUNE 22, 2015
S:\ORDINANCES\2015\ADOPTED\Ordinance #2015-10 - Notification of Tax Rate Increase Over the Rolled Back Tax Rate-ADOPTED 06-22-2015.wpd
Actions History
June 22, 2015 - Final Reading by City Council
June 8, 2015 - First Reading by City Council