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REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
AGENDA
MARCH 27, 2017 - 7:30 P.M.
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
15 LOOCKERMAN PLAZA
DOVER, DELAWARE
REVISED BY REMOVING THE PRESENTATION OF AWARDS BY DOWNTOWN DOVER PARTNERSHIP
FOR THE ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE
OPEN FORUM - 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO OFFICIAL MEETING (7:00 P.M.)
THE “OPEN FORUM” SEGMENT IS PROVIDED TO EXTEND THE OPPORTUNITY TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC
TO SHARE THEIR QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS, COMMENTS, CONCERNS, AND COMPLAINTS. DISCUSSION OF
ANY ITEM APPEARING ON THE AGENDA AS A PUBLIC HEARING IS PROHIBITED DURING THE OPEN
FORUM AS AN OPPORTUNITY WILL BE PROVIDED DURING CONSIDERATION OF THAT ITEM. CITIZEN
COMMENTS ARE LIMITED TO THREE (3) MINUTES. COUNCIL IS PROHIBITED FROM TAKING ACTION
SINCE THEY ARE NOT IN OFFICIAL SESSION; HOWEVER, THEY MAY SCHEDULE SUCH ITEMS AS REGULAR
AGENDA ITEMS AND ACT UPON THEM IN THE FUTURE.
INVOCATION BY CHAPLAIN WALLACE DIXON
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE LED BY COUNCILMAN HUTCHISON
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
* CONSENT AGENDA
THOSE ITEMS ON THE COUNCIL AGENDA WHICH ARE CONSIDERED ROUTINE AND NON-
CONTROVERSIAL SHALL BE MARKED WITH AN ASTERISK (*) AND WILL BE ACTED UPON BY A SINGLE
ROLL CALL VOTE OF THE COUNCIL. THERE WILL BE NO SEPARATE DISCUSSION OF THESE ITEMS
UNLESS A MEMBER OF COUNCIL SO REQUESTS, IN WHICH EVENT THE MATTER SHALL BE REMOVED
FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA AND CONSIDERED A SEPARATE ITEM.
* 1. ADOPTION OF MINUTES
A. SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 6, 2017 - VIOLATIONS OF THE DANGEROUS
BUILDING ORDINANCE
B. SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017
C. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017
2. RESOLUTION NO. 2017-03 - JAMES E. HOSFELT, JR.
3. PRESENTATIONS
A. YOUTH FOCUS GROUP INITIATIVE
B. RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER (NCALL)
C. 2016 ANNUAL REPORTS
(1) DOVER POLICE DEPARTMENT
(2) PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
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COUNCIL AGENDA - MARCH 27, 2017 PAGE 2
4. COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT - FEBRUARY 28, 2017
A. SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
(1) PRESENTATION BY C. DAVID JAMISON - SPEED CONTROL MEASURES -
INDEPENDENCE BOULEVARD
(THIS ITEM WAS DEFERRED DURING THE REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017)
5. PASSPORT SERVICES UPDATE
* 6. CONFIRMATION OF SPECIAL POLICE PENSION ELECTION - RETIRED SERGEANT
STEVE ROGERS (TO FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF RETIRED CAPTAIN JOHN SIGLER - TERM TO
EXPIRE JANUARY 31, 2019)
7. SETTING OF DATES FOR SPECIAL ELECTION
* 8. APPOINTMENT OF JUDGES - SPECIAL ROBBINS HOSE COMPANY ELECTION - APRIL 17, 2017
A. JAMES HURLEY C. BRIAN WASKO
B. WILLIAM RHODES
* 9. APPOINTMENT OF DELAWARE MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC CORPORATION (DEMEC) DIRECTOR
(DONNA S. MITCHELL)
10. APPOINTMENT RECOMMENDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT SLAVIN - CHAIR OF SAFETY
ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE (TO FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF
JAMES E. HOSFELT, JR. - TERM TO EXPIRE MAY 2017)
11. ACTING CITY MANAGER’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
12. COUNCIL MEMBERS’ ANNOUNCEMENTS
13. ADJOURNMENT
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S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\COUNCIL-AGENDAS\2017\03-27-2017 COUNCIL AGENDA REVISED 03-24-2017.WPD
EXECUTIVE SESSION PURSUANT TO:
29 DEL. C. §10004(B)(2) - PRELIMINARY DISCUSSIONS ON SITE ACQUISITIONS FOR ANY PUBLICLY FUNDED CAPITAL
IMPROVEMENTS, OR SALES OR LEASES OF REAL PROPERTY;
29 DEL. C. §10004(B)(4) - STRATEGY SESSIONS, INCLUDING THOSE INVOLVING LEGAL ADVICE OR OPINION FROM AN
ATTORNEY-AT-LAW, WITH RESPECT TO COLLECTIVE BARGAINING OR PENDING OR POTENTIAL LITIGATION, BUT ONLY
WHEN AN OPEN MEETING WOULD HAVE AN ADVERSE EFFECT ON THE BARGAINING OR LITIGATION POSITION OF THE
PUBLIC BODY;
29 DEL. C. §10004(B)(6) - DISCUSSION OF THE CONTENT OF DOCUMENTS, EXCLUDED FROM THE DEFINITION OF
"PUBLIC RECORD" IN §10002 OF THIS TITLE WHERE SUCH DISCUSSION MAY DISCLOSE THE CONTENTS OF SUCH
DOCUMENTS;
29 DEL. C. §10004(B)(9) - PERSONNEL MATTERS IN WHICH THE NAMES, COMPETENCY AND ABILITIES OF INDIVIDUAL
EMPLOYEES ARE DISCUSSED, UNLESS THE EMPLOYEE REQUESTS THAT SUCH A MEETING BE OPEN
THE AGENDA ITEMS AS LISTED MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED IN SEQUENCE. PURSUANT TO 29 DEL. C. §10004(E)(2),
THIS AGENDA IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE TO INCLUDE THE ADDITION OR THE DELETION OF ITEMS, INCLUDING
EXECUTIVE SESSIONS, WHICH ARISE AT THE TIME OF THE MEETING.
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SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
The Special Council Meeting was held on March 6, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. with Council President Slavin
presiding. Council members present were Mr. Sudler, Mr. Cole, Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Hare, and
Mr. Hutchison (departed at 6:40 p.m. and returned at 6:46 p.m.). Mr. Anderson, Mr. Neil, and Mr. Lewis
were absent. Mayor Christiansen was also absent.
Council staff members present were Mrs. Townshend and Mrs. McDowell.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Mr. Hutchison moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and unanimously
carried.
PUBLIC HEARING - VIOLATION OF THE DANGEROUS BUILDING ORDINANCE -
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 236 EISENHOWER DRIVE, OWNED BY ANGELA WESTER
AND MARTHA GARRATT
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider a violation of the Dangerous
Building Ordinance at 236 Eisenhower Drive, owned by Angela Wester and Martha Garratt.
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, advised that the
property is a single story ranch wood framed dwelling. On March 11, 2016, City Staff conducted
an exterior inspection of the home and observed several Code violations, including damage to the
roof and a dilapidated fence. Several notices were sent to the homeowner over the course of the
summer with no response. On August 29, 2016, City Staff condemned the dwelling and posted it
as unsafe for human occupancy due to the amount of damage to the structure and the lack of work
being done to repair it. To date, the owner has made no contact with the City regarding the Code
violations or registering the dwelling as vacant. Currently the structure is vacant, with no active
utilities and in a serious state of disrepair. Mrs. Townshend reviewed a presentation depicting the
condition of the property (Exhibit #1).
Staff recommended: 1) declaring this building and all accessory structures on this property
dangerous; 2) ordering the property demolished by April 6, 2017 by the owner or equity owner at
their own risk; 3) ordering the Building Inspector to cause the demolition of the structures if not
completed by the owner within 10 days of the date established by City Council; and 4) ordering the
City Manager with the assistance of the City Solicitor to cause the cost of demolition to be charged
against the land on which the building exists as a municipal lien or cause such cost to be added to
the tax duplicate as an assessment, or to be levied as a special tax, or to be recovered in a suit at law
against the owner.
Mr. Sudler asked if Staff saw any cracks in the foundation of the dwelling. Responding,
Mrs. Townshend explained that staff had not done a structural inspection. She noted that typically
if there is a lot of damage, a structural inspection would be required before the City would allow
permits for major renovation; however, the only permits that staff had reviewed or received
applications for were for the roof and ramp.
Mr. Sudler questioned if the main concern was the roof and if this was the most dangerous item on
the list. In response, Mrs. Townshend stated that the roof was an issue and, stemming from that, the
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SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 6, 2017 PAGE 2
interior damage from water getting into the building. She noted that there was rot and decay to the
interior of the building, as well as mold, and these issues were problematic in terms of occupying
the building.
Council President Slavin declared the public hearing open.
Mr. Michael Catrino, First Place Services, Selbyville, Delaware, stated that Caliber Home Loans,
Inc. was the equity owner of this property. He stated that the owner of record retains ownership;
however, in every mortgage or mortgage bought out, Caliber Home Loans has equity in the property.
Mr. Catrino explained that once the mortgager starts defaulting on payments, Caliber Home Loans
then has the right and authority to go in and change one lock, which they had recently done;
however, they had not been awarded total ownership of this property. Mr. Catrino indicated that
Caliber Home Loans had been notified of the violations through the City of Dover and hired him to
come in, change the locks, and allow an inspector to come in on a monthly basis, and they approved
certain items that were in violation. Mr. Catrino stated that improvements would include the parging
of the front cement steps, noting that there was no structural damage in the front ramp and there was
only facing and parging to be done. He indicated that they had checked under all the eight-inch
block used for support, which was still there and in good condition. Mr. Catrino advised that the
pouring and forming of a three-inch thick topcoat over the driveway was also approved. He noted
that they had previously been talking about first spraying weedkiller on it, allowing that to set for
24 hours, forming the concrete at the existing boundaries of the current driveway, and then pouring
a three-inch-thick topcoat and coming in 48 hours afterward and removing it. Mr. Catrino indicated
that current bids had been approved for siding, stating his belief that there was 60 square feet on the
rear of the house and six (6) linear feet of soffit and fascia at the rear of the house. He advised that
repair of the gutters had been approved, as well as removal of approximately 4,000 square feet of
drywall from the interior.
Ms. Heidi Catrino, owner, First Place Services, stated that they had been approved to remove all of
the moldy drywall in each room that was mentioned and then to treat with 50/50 bleach all remaining
studs and anything inside the walls. She stated that if there was moldy insulation, she would have
to report it, so that could be approved as well. Ms. Catrino indicated that the use of Kilz paint on
the remaining studs had also been approved to prevent future mold growth in those areas.
Mr. Catrino advised that they had the second permit that Mrs. Townshend had referred to. He stated
that he had been told there would be a licensed roofer and they were waiting on bids, but this was
separate from First Place Services. Mr. Catrino expressed his belief that Caliber Home Loans was
trying to make repairs, noting that First Place Services was basically the eyes and ears of Caliber
Home Loans, along with inspectors, to report any damages.
Ms. Catrino explained that Caliber Home Loans had emailed and asked them to attend the meeting
to let members know that they had approved the issues that Staff had given citations for and allow
them 30 days in order to get it done. She noted that she had been told to get approval for a permit
and that time would be needed to do the work.
Mr. Hosfelt asked how long Caliber Homes had been part owner of this property. Responding,
Mr. Catrino stated that, due to privacy laws, Caliber Homes does not tell them anything, noting that
he had just found out the owner’s name during the meeting. Mr. Hosfelt questioned when First Place
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SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 6, 2017 PAGE 3
Services was given permission to do the work. Responding, Ms. Catrino advised that they were
given permission to come to the meeting on February 28, 2017 and permission to do the work for
the siding and gutters on February 24, 2017. She noted that on February 27, 2017, the steps,
driveway, and removal of all the moldy drywall was approved.
Mr. Hutchison asked if there was an estimate of the cost to repair the house and put it into livable
condition. Responding, Mr. Catrino stated that livable means different things to different people and
estimated that it would cost approximately $40,000. Mr. Hutchison questioned when the original
roof was put on. In response, Mr. Catrino stated that he did not know and could only give an
estimate. In regard to whether the entire roof would need replacing, Mr. Catrino advised that the
damage extended only to the rear portion of the building. He noted that he had not been to the
property regarding the roof and did not really look at it or take pictures. Mr. Catrino stated his belief
that the complete roof needed to be repaired.
Mr. Hutchison advised that he had been to the house that day, looked at the outside of it, and found
it in extremely poor condition. He expressed the desire for the house to be in a condition that would
be fitting to the neighborhood. Mr. Catrino reiterated his estimate that a total of $40,000 would
bring it up to the standard of the neighborhood. Mr. Hutchison asked how long it would take the
Catrinos to get the job done from the time they receive approval. In response, Mr. Catrino estimated
that it would take approximately seven (7) days, noting that they were waiting on permits and
planned to repair the siding, soffit, fascia, and driveway; parge the ramp; remove the drywall; and
spray the studs and scrub them with bleach. Ms. Catrino indicated that they had already removed
the debris from the back yard, put locks on, and winterized.
Mrs. Townshend stated her understanding that the scope of the Catrinos’ services included removal
of drywall but not bringing the house up to minimum Code standards, or putting in drywall or
ceilings. Ms. Catrino indicated that they could, but everything must be approved. She noted that
the carpet is stained and needs to be removed and replaced and they may be told to remove the carpet
and bid to replace it or, in two (2) days or six (6) months, to put more carpet in. Ms. Catrino
indicated that if she reported to M & M Mortgage that the City would give 30 days, the City would
have to tell her exactly and completely what is expected so that she could let them know; otherwise,
it was not going to happen. Ms. Catrino stated the need to be very clear with them.
Mr. Sudler stated his understanding that they were currently ready to be active with being in
compliance and that part of their first phase was to remove the mold, which was a top priority. He
asked if the roof was also part of active compliance. Responding, Ms. Catrino indicated that it was
part of active compliance; however, this would be through M & M Mortgage but not through First
Place Services. She noted that they would have to hire a licensed roofer.
Mr. Sudler questioned if some type of correspondence could be expected stating that the roof would
be in compliance within the next 15 to 20 days if Council approved 30 or 60 days. In response,
Mr. Catrino stated that he could not speak for the roofer.
Mr. Sudler asked if the company was willing to act and fix the roof upon approval. Mr. Catrino
estimated that roof repair could occur within 30 days. Ms. Catrino explained that the email she
received stated that 30 days was needed.
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SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 6, 2017 PAGE 4
Mr. Sudler questioned if there was a need to know that the structure would not be torn down in order
to move forward, and Mr. Catrino stated that there was. Mr. Catrino advised that there was a
slippery slope because there had been different court opinions as to ownership, and the bank had to
be careful not to overstep their bounds. He indicated that it looked like some of the work had been
done before Caliber Home Loans’ involvement, noting that drywall had been removed and piled up
in the back room. He expressed his belief that, now that they were aware and working on trying to
move forward, Caliber Home Loans and M & M Mortgage were trying to move forward and improve
the property.
Mr. Sudler asked when the Catrinos were last in the unit. Responding, Ms. Catrino indicated that
she was last there on the 23rd and saw the pile of drywall there on that date.
Mr. Slavin indicated that his comments were not directed at the Catrinos or their business; however,
if a property owner waits until this moment to come forward, the matter is done, and the time when
they should have come forward is far in the past. Responding, Mr. Catrino noted that they are not
the property owners. Ms. Catrino explained that she had no idea who had the mortgage, how long
they had it, or if they knew the situation.
Mr. Slavin advised that there had previously been people who came in and pled for 30 more days
because they were doing the work themselves or had a contractor. He stated his understanding that
the Catrinos had a contract for some of the work but could not speak for the roofer. Mr. Slavin
indicated that he did not understand why interior work would be authorized without doing the roof,
because this was probably a source of water penetration into the building. Mr. Catrino indicated that
they had notified the bank, noting that they had to touch first base before they could touch second.
Mr. Slavin expressed his belief that this matter was too mixed up.
There being no one else present wishing to speak, Council President Slavin declared the public
hearing closed.
Mr. Hosfelt moved to accept staff’s recommendation to: 1) declare this building and all accessory
structures on this property dangerous; 2) order the property demolished by April 6, 2017 by the
owner or equity owner at their own risk; 3) order the Building Inspector to cause the demolition of
the structures if not completed by the owner within 10 days of the date established by City Council;
and 4) order the City Manager with the assistance of the City Solicitor to cause the cost of demolition
to be charged against the land on which the building exists as a municipal lien or cause such cost to
be added to the tax duplicate as an assessment, or to be levied as a special tax, or to be recovered in
a suit at law against the owner. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hutchison.
Mr. Hare asked if Staff’s recommendation was to bring the house up to Code or to demolish it.
Responding, Mrs. Townshend clarified that Staff’s recommendation was that either the owner would
demolish it within 30 days or the City would come in 10 days after that and begin the demolition
process. Mr. Hare questioned whether the house would be torn down if the whole house was totally
up to Code and in perfect condition. Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that it would be
demolished and reiterated that Staff’s recommendation was demolition, not repair.
Mr. Sudler stated that the purpose of demolishing units was because an individual is not willing to
be in compliance and bring it up to code. He indicated that, with the demand for housing these days,
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SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 6, 2017 PAGE 5
if there was a source that was willing to bring it up to code, the City should not demolish it.
Mr. Sudler stated that he thought they should be given the opportunity to bring it up to code, stating
that they were willing to be active and in compliance the first two (2) main concerns. He indicated
that he would vote against Staff’s recommendation because he believed this was mostly cosmetic
and he did not think it should be torn down if there was someone willing to bring cosmetics up to
Code.
Mr. Slavin stated that this would put Council in an awkward position once again and asked how long
the City had been requesting that the property be brought up to Code. Responding, Mrs. Townshend
advised that it was condemned in August 2016. Mr. Slavin expressed his opinion that sometimes
members think that this is the first time that such properties have interaction with the City; however,
it is the last time they interact with the City. He noted that Staff works on these properties, brings
them forward and, at the last minute, Council undoes all the months of work that have been done.
Mr. Sudler stated that sometimes there are more than one owners involved, and there is a need to
wait to get their approval. He indicated that if they are willing to bring the property up to code, the
City should allow them to do so. Mr. Sudler understood and respected Staff’s time, but also
respected the fact that they were willing to bring it up to code. He noted the need for housing, stating
that he thought members should go against Staff’s recommendation and allow them to move forward
with bringing it up to code.
Mr. Hare stated that he agreed with Mr. Sudler; however, he noted that the City used to have a
statement that said that a property would be brought up to code within 30 days or demolished, and
that had been changed. Mrs. Townshend advised that the City kept finding itself in a position where
properties reached 40 days and were approximately 60% complete, and then in the position of
deciding to demolish them after money had been put into them and after significant progress. She
cited the example of another property that came before members approximately a year-and-a-half
ago that had just finished repairs. Mrs. Townshend explained that the way that Staff makes
recommendations was changed because Staff was being put in the constant position of either letting
things go well beyond the 30 days or demolishing properties that people had invested a lot of
resources into getting halfway complete.
Mr. Hare asked whether notices for this property were sent to the owner or the bank. Responding,
Mrs. Townshend advised that they were sent to the owner of record, an attorney in Georgetown,
Texas Commerce Bank, and Caliber Home Loans, Inc., and the most recent letters were sent on
February 9, 2017. Mr. Hare questioned when previous notices were sent. Responding,
Mrs. Townshend indicated that the owners had been getting regular Code violation notices.
Mr. Hare stated that it looked like the owners could not care less, noting that they were nowhere to
be found. He asked when the banks became involved. Responding, Mrs. Townshend advised that
they were notified by the letter dated February 9, 2017, noting that all lien holders are notified once
Staff starts the dangerous building notification.
Mr. Hare advised that the banks were notified on February 9, 2016, had not yet been involved for
30 days, were not notified when the owners were and had been taking steps to get this taken care of.
He indicated that the owners did not care and were gone. Mr. Hare stated that he could understand
proceeding if the bank had been notified back in August or September and nothing had happened.
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SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 6, 2017 PAGE 6
Mr. Hosfelt expressed the need to remember the neighbors who have to live beside this property.
Mr. Hutchison stated that his biggest concern with this issue was dealing with banks. He noted that
there are a lot of homes that have notices put on them that list the names of banks; however, when
someone reaches out to try to call someone, the call is not returned. Mr. Hutchison advised that if
the Catrinos had been involved from the beginning, the problem could have been solved. He
indicated that properties cannot be allowed to sit for a year or two (2) and continue to decline.
Mr. Hutchison stated that he would not want to live next to this house, noting that he prefers to save
houses if possible. He reiterated that his biggest concern was the banks that do not care about
reaching out to the City or to people like the Catrinos, noting that if this had been done, the work
would have been done two (2) years ago and people could have been living there.
Mr. Slavin stated that members were not asked to worry about banks but about citizens, noting that
the neighbors were under a lot of pressure for different reasons. He advised that Eisenhower Drive
is a transitional neighborhood where homes had traditionally been owner occupied. Mr. Slavin
indicated that a lot of turnover and rental properties were being seen in that area right now, and
homeowners were struggling with the overall quality of life. He stated that one of the biggest
complaints at the neighborhood’s homeowners association meetings was what would be done about
vacant properties. Mr. Slavin advised that he felt it hypocritical to say that it is a quality of life issue
that the City is addressing and that Staff will be sent out and then to worry about a bank not being
notified at the very last second, after Staff has dedicated time to it. He stated that, if the bank owned
the property, they had responsibilities, too.
Mr. Hare asked whether the house would be torn down if it was completely up to code on April 6th.
Responding, Mr. Slavin stated his belief that members would hear from the City Planner long before
that occurred.
Mr. Hare stated that he would not have a problem if the house was 50% up to Code on April 6th even
if $50,000 had been put into it, stating it could then be torn down. He advised, however, that if it
was 100% up to code and ready to move into, the City should save its money and not tear it down.
Mr. Sudler concurred with Mr. Hare, stating that in the past there had often been an argument that
individuals did not care enough about the property to show up to state their disapproval. He
concurred with the comments regarding Staff’s time; however, he thought every situation was unique
and this was one of those unique situations where Council could be a little lenient and allow them
to bring it up to Code. Mr. Sudler indicated that it would cost taxpayer dollars to demolish the unit
and there would be nothing wrong with saving some money and getting a guarantee that it would be
brought up to Code. He stated that this would be fair since they were being proactive to bring it up
to Code. Mr. Sudler noted that they had been notified on February 9, 2017; had approved siding on
February 24, 2017; and were looking toward the steps and driveway on February 27, 2017.
The motion to accept staff’s recommendation failed by a roll call vote of four (4) yes (Mr. Cole,
Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Hutchison, and Mr. Slavin), two (2) no (Mr. Sudler and Mr. Hare), and three (3)
absent (Mr. Anderson, Mr. Neil, and Mr. Lewis). Council President Slavin advised that, in
accordance with Article II, Section 10 of the Charter, no ordinance, resolution, motion or order shall
be valid unless it shall have (1) the affirmative vote of a majority of the members elected to the
council.
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SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 6, 2017 PAGE 7
Mr. Hare moved that the property must be brought up to all Codes by April 6, 2017 or Staff’s
recommendation would be enacted. The motion was seconded by Mr. Sudler.
Mr. Cole stated his understanding that there would be no exception, and Mr. Hare and Mr. Sudler
concurred. Mr. Slavin stated that the matter would not come back to Council but be left as a Staff
decision, and Mr. Hare and Mr. Sudler concurred.
Mrs. Townshend clarified, specifically for the representative of the mortgage company, that bringing
the property up to code would be beyond the scope of what had been approved by the bank at this
point. She noted that a Certificate of Occupancy would be needed, and this would include making
sure that the electrical is up to code and everything is put back so that the dwelling could be moved
into.
Mr. Sudler asked what the maximum length of time would be to receive a Certificate of Occupancy.
Responding, Mrs. Townshend advised that a Certificate of Occupancy could not be applied for until
the work is completed. Mr. Sudler questioned how long it would take if the work was completed
tomorrow. In response, Mrs. Townshend indicated that a Certificate of Occupancy inspection is
typically scheduled within three (3) to four (4) days, or a week at the most.
Ms. Catrino stated her understanding that the electric and water would have to work. Mr. Hare stated
that the walls must be up. Mr. Slavin cautioned that a Certificate of Occupancy is a legal threshold
and not one that can be explained on the fly.
Mr. Sudler moved to suspend the rules to allow the Catrinos to speak, seconded by Mr. Hare
and unanimously carried.
Mr. Catrino explained that they had just been notified of violations that had to be cured; however,
it sounded like the home would have to be 100% prepared for occupancy and Certificate of
Occupancy obtained by April 6, 2017. He indicated that they were trying; however, it was asking
way too much to obtain an occupancy permit in less than 60 days. Responding, Mr. Slavin noted
that the time period was 30 days.
Mr. Slavin noted that the scope of what would be fixed at this house by First Place Services was very
limited and when they complete their work, the house would be only marginally further along the
way toward being fixed. He stated that Staff’s recommendation was that it should have been fixed
already and he expressed his frustration. Mr. Catrino stated his understanding; however, he indicated
that they were trying to take care of the violations that they were cited for. Mr. Slavin stated that
there would probably have to be two or three other people such as the Catrinos to get all the work
done. Mr. Catrino indicated it was unfortunate that they had not just given the work to him and it
was spread through different vendors and contractors.
Mr. Sudler indicated that the Catrinos would have to let the bank know that, if they want the property
to be saved, they would have to move forward and get the ball rolling because it could be condemned
and they would not have the opportunity to get it released. In response, Mr. Catrino advised that they
were working with different departments and government agencies and there was crossover.
Mr. Sudler noted that, as a contractor himself, he understood the situation.
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SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 6, 2017 PAGE 8
Mr. Slavin advised that the motion before members was to bring the property up to all Codes by
April 6, 2017 with a Certificate of Occupancy and, absent that, to execute Staff’s recommendation.
The motion that the property be brought up to all Codes with a Certificate of Occupancy by
April 6, 2017 and, absent that, to execute Staff’s recommendation to: 1) declare this building
and all accessory structures on this property dangerous; 2) order the property demolished by
April 6, 2017 by the owner or equity owner at their own risk; 3) order the Building Inspector
to cause the demolition of the structures if not completed by the owner within 10 days of the
date established by City Council; and 4) order the City Manager with the assistance of the City
Solicitor to cause the cost of demolition to be charged against the land on which the building
exists as a municipal lien or cause such cost to be added to the tax duplicate as an assessment,
or to be levied as a special tax, or to be recovered in a suit at law against the owner was carried
by a unanimous roll call vote (Mr. Anderson, Mr. Neil, and Mr. Lewis absent).
PUBLIC HEARING - VIOLATION OF THE DANGEROUS BUILDING ORDINANCE -
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1175 HORSEPOND ROAD, OWNED BY
MICHAEL S. GOODHAND
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, advised that the
property is a single wide mobile home with a one room addition added. The dwelling was
condemned as unfit for human habitation on February 8, 2017 due to the condition of the property
and the lack of responsiveness on the part of the owner to correct violations. The dwelling is in a
dilapidated condition, with two windows boarded, deteriorated skirting, damaged siding and a rear
wooding deck that is rotted and a danger to walk on. Additionally, there are two wooding sheds that
are also in a dilapidated condition. On March 7, 2013, the dwelling was registered as a vacant
building. Since that time, the City has had to have the grass and overgrowth cut by a City Contractor
on nine separate occasions. To date, the owner has made no contact with the City regarding the code
violations or registering the dwelling as vacant. Currently the structure is vacant, with no active
utilities and in a serious state of disrepair. Mrs. Townshend reviewed a presentation depicting the
condition of the property (Exhibit #2).
Mr. Hare stated that did not have a problem with Staff’s recommendation; however, he questioned
why it had taken so long to address the property, noting that problems began in 2001. Responding,
Mrs. Townshend stated that in 2012 the City began having an Inspector focus full time on vacant
buildings. In 2012 - 2013, when this was made a priority, more buildings were identified as vacant
and registered. Mrs. Townshend indicated that the property is not located in a neighborhood and
noted that there are fewer complaints in areas like this. She advised that it was, nonetheless, in very
poor condition and needed to be addressed as it is dangerous.
Mr. Sudler stated his understanding that the first recommendation for the unit to be demolished was
in 2001. Responding, Mrs. Townshend advised that utilities were terminated in 2001; therefore, to
Staff’s knowledge, it had been vacant since then. Mr. Sudler questioned when the owner registered
the dwelling as abandoned. Mrs. Townshend explained that they had not registered it; however, the
City registered it in 2013. Responding to Mr. Sudler, Mrs. Townshend stated that there was a
registration fee.
Mr. Sudler asked why it took four (4) years from 2013 to bring the property to Council for
demolition. In response, Mrs. Townshend explained that there are a lot of vacant buildings in the
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SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 6, 2017 PAGE 9
City; however, not all of them come forward as dangerous. She noted that Staff works to prioritize
them based on the degree of the deterioration of the building. Mrs. Townshend stated that many of
the buildings that had been brought forward for demolition recently were those in neighborhoods that
had received a lot of neighbor complaints.
Mr. Sudler asked if the dwelling was in the same or better condition in 2001. Responding,
Mrs. Townshend advised that she did not know. He questioned if pictures had been taken in 2001
and if it was in the same or better condition in 2013. In response, Mrs. Townshend advised that she
had not seen any pictures from 2013; however, a building that is vacant, abandoned, and not being
tended to continues to deteriorate.
Mr. Sudler expressed his concern that the building at 236 Eisenhower Drive that was discussed
earlier in the evening was being demolished within two (2) or three (3) years but was not as
deteriorated and dilapidated as the property on Horsepond Road that had a 15- or 16-year history.
In response, Mrs. Townshend advised that the property on Eisenhower Drive comes up regularly at
Towne Point/White Oak Civic Association meetings. She stated that she did not think it was in
better condition because its roof was practically missing. Mr. Sudler noted that the property on
Horsepond Road had multiple dilapidated units. Mrs. Townshend reiterated that the property on
Horsepond Road does not have a lot of neighbors and had not had an issue with people getting in.
She concurred that it was in very poor condition but reiterated the need to prioritize because staff
cannot bring everything forward. Mrs. Townshend advised that the Eisenhower Drive property is
in the middle of a neighborhood. Mr. Sudler stated his belief that this was picking and choosing.
Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that prioritization means picking and choosing those properties
which are more of a hazard. Mr. Sudler stated that the property on Horsepond Road should have
been a top priority because it was way more dilapidated, in his opinion and in his professional
opinion as a contractor.
Mr. Slavin asked if the owner of record was current on taxes. Responding, Mrs. Townshend advised
that they were not.
Mr. Slavin questioned how big the plot of land was, indicating that he was curious why someone
would walk away from a structure. In response, Mrs. Townshend stated that she did not have that
information; however, she stated that it was a larger piece of land. Mr. Slavin indicated that the
owner probably had more value in the land than the building, and Mrs. Townshend concurred. He
expressed his belief that the owner was willing to take a lien against the land. Mrs. Townshend
noted that the property may be on the Sheriff’s sale list, stating her belief that it was two (2) years
delinquent. Responding to Mrs. Townshend, Mr. Slavin indicated that it was not necessary to verify
the information with the Tax Assessor.
Council President Slavin declared the public hearing open. There being no one present wishing to
speak, Mr. Slavin declared the public hearing closed.
Mr. Sudler moved for approval of Staff’s recommendation to: 1) declare this building and all
accessory structures on this property dangerous; 2) order the property demolished by
April 6, 2017 by the owner or equity owner at their own risk; 3) order the Building Inspector
to cause the demolition of the structures if not completed by the owner within 10 days of the
date established by City Council; 4) order the City Manager with the assistance of the City
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SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 6, 2017 PAGE 10
Solicitor to cause the cost of demolition to be charged against the land on which the building
exists as a municipal lien or cause such cost to be added to the tax duplicate as an assessment,
or to be levied as a special tax, or to be recovered in a suit at law against the owner. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Hare and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Mr. Anderson,
Mr. Neil, and Mr. Lewis absent).
CITY MANAGER’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
The City Manager was not in attendance.
COUNCIL MEMBERS' ANNOUNCEMENTS
There were no members of Council wishing to make announcements.
Mr. Sudler moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 6:52 p.m.
TRACI A. McDOWELL
CITY CLERK
All ordinances, resolutions, motions, and orders adopted by City Council during their Special
Meeting of March 6, 2017, are hereby approved.
ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
MAYOR
/TM
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Exhibits
Exhibit #1 - Presentation - Violation of Dangerous Building Ordinance - 236 Eisenhower Drive
Exhibit #2 - Presentation - Violation of Dangerous Building Ordinance - 1175 Horsepond Road
Página 13
EXHIBIT #1
Special Council Meeting of 03/06/2017
Violation of Dangerous
Building Ordinance
236 Eisenhower Drive
Planning & Inspections Department
Dover, Delaware
March 6, 2017
Página 14
236 Eisenhower Drive
Case History
11 code enforcement cases since 2007
Exterior code violations – Grass violations
Vehicles parked in the yard – Junk and Debris
The utilities were terminated on October 3, 2016
Registered as vacant by the city on February 14,
2017
Condemned as unfit for human occupancy on
August 29, 2016
Outstanding Charges
$125.00 vacant building fee
$514.31 utilities
Página 15
236 Eisenhower Drive
Current Condition
Deterioration of the roof
Mold and deterioration of interior due to
water intrusion
Deterioration of siding
Overall deterioration and lack of
maintenance
Página 16
Dangerous Building Code –
Chapter 22 Article XI, Sec. 22-381
(5) Unfit for habitation.
(9) General welfare.
(10) Code violations.
(12) Unoccupied buildings.
Página 35
Recommended Council Action
Declare this building and all accessory structures on this property
dangerous.
Order the property demolished by April 6, 2017 by the owner or
equity owner at their own risk.
Order the Building Inspector to cause demolition of the structures
if not completed by the owner within 10 days of the date
established by City Council.
Order the City Manager with the assistance of the City Solicitor to
cause the cost of demolition to be charged against the land on
which the building exists as a municipal lien or cause such cost to
be added to the tax duplicate as an assessment, or to be levied as
a special tax, or to be recovered in a suit at law against the owner.
Página 36
EXHIBIT #2
Special Council Meeting of 03/06/2017
Violation of Dangerous
Building Ordinance
1175 Horsepond Road
Planning & Inspections Department
Dover, Delaware
March 6, 2017
Página 37
1175 Horsepond Road
Case History
13 code enforcement cases since 2013
11 cases were for tall grass and weeds. On 9 separate
occasions City Staff had to have the grass cut by city
contractors.
The utilities were terminated on September 24,
2001.
Registered as vacant by the city on September 11,
2013
Condemned as unfit for human occupancy on
February 8, 2017.
Outstanding Charges
$5,422.02 in unpaid taxes, fees, grass cutting charges and
code citations
Página 38
1175 Horsepond Road
Current Condition
Damaged and missing skirting
Rotted deck
Vegetation growing into the structure
Página 39
Dangerous Building Code –
Chapter 22 Article XI, Sec. 22-381
(5) Unfit for habitation.
(9) General welfare.
(10) Code violations.
(12) Unoccupied buildings.
Página 57
Recommended Council Action
Declare this building and all accessory structures on this property
dangerous.
Order the property demolished by April 6, 2017 by the owner or
equity owner at their own risk.
Order the Building Inspector to cause demolition of the structures
if not completed by the owner within 10 days of the date
established by City Council.
Order the City Manager with the assistance of the City Solicitor to
cause the cost of demolition to be charged against the land on
which the building exists as a municipal lien or cause such cost to
be added to the tax duplicate as an assessment, or to be levied as
a special tax, or to be recovered in a suit at law against the owner.
Página 58
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
A Special Council Meeting was held on March 13, 2017 at 5:36 p.m. with Council President Slavin
presiding. Members present were Mr. Anderson (arrived at 5:39 p.m.), Mr. Cole (arrived at
5:59 p.m.), Mr. Hare, Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Hutchison, Mr. Neil, and Mr. Sudler. Mr. Lewis was absent.
Mayor Christiansen was also absent.
Council staff members present were Mr. Pepper, Mr. Koenig (departed at 6:13 p.m. and returned at
6:22 p.m.), Mrs. Mitchell (departed at 5:58 p.m.) and Mrs. McDowell. Mr. Hudson was also present
(departed at 5:58 p.m.).
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Mr. Hutchison moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously
carried.
Mr. Neil moved to recess into Executive Session pursuant to 29 Del. C. §10004 (b)(6) -
Discussion of the content of documents excluded from the definition of "public record" in
§10002 of this title where such discussion may disclose the contents of such documents (§10002
(l)(2) Trade secrets and commercial or financial information obtained from a person which is
of a privileged or confidential nature) and 29 Del. C. §10004(b)(9) - Personnel matters in which
the names, competency and abilities of individual employees are discussed, unless the employee
requests that such a meeting be open. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hare and
unanimously carried.
The Special Council Meeting recessed into Executive Session at 5:37 p.m.
The Executive Session recessed into the Special Council Meeting at 6:23 p.m.
ACTION RESULTING FROM THE EXECUTIVE SESSION
Follow-Up to Council Appointed Employee Performance Evaluation of February 27, 2017 -
City Manager, Scott Koenig
During the Executive Session, members of Council considered the potential retirement of
Mr. Scott D. Koenig, City Manager.
Mr. Anderson moved to accept the retirement and severance agreement of Mr. Koenig (as on
file in the City Clerk’s Office). The motion was seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and unanimously
carried.
Mr. Sudler moved that Council would not hire a replacement City Manager until such time
as all the costs associated with the severance have been completed. The motion was seconded
by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried.
Mr. Sudler moved to recess the Special Council Meeting, seconded by Mr. Hutchison and
unanimously carried.
The Special Council Meeting recessed at 6:25 p.m.
Mr. Neil moved to reconvene the Special Council Meeting, seconded by Mr. Sudler and
unanimously carried.
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SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017 PAGE 2
The Special Council Meeting reconvened at 8:06 p.m. with Council President Slavin presiding.
Members present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Cole, Mr. Hare, Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Hutchison, Mr. Lewis,
Mr. Neil, and Mr. Sudler. Mayor Christiansen was absent.
Council staff members present were Mr. Pepper, Mrs. Mitchell, and Mrs. McDowell.
Mr. Sudler moved to recess into Executive Session pursuant to 29 Del. C. §10004(b)(9) -
Personnel matters in which the names, competency and abilities of individual employees are
discussed, unless the employee requests that such a meeting be open. The motion was seconded
by Mr. Anderson and unanimously carried.
The Special Council Meeting recessed into Executive Session at 8:07 p.m.
The Executive Session adjourned at 8:14 p.m.
ACTION RESULTING FROM THE EXECUTIVE SESSION
Follow-Up to Council Appointed Employee Performance Evaluation of February 27, 2017 -
City Manager, Scott Koenig (Continued)
During the Executive Session, as a result of Mr. Koenig’s announced retirement, members
considered the appointment of an interim or acting City Manager.
Mr. Sudler moved to appoint Mrs. Donna S. Mitchell as the Acting City Manager, seconded
by Mr. Hosfelt and unanimously carried.
Mr. Neil moved to adjourn the Special Council Meeting, seconded by Mr. Sudler and
unanimously carried.
The Special Council Meeting adjourned at 8:15 p.m.
TRACI A. McDOWELL
CITY CLERK
All ordinances, resolutions, motions, and orders adopted by City Council during their Special
Meeting of March 13, 2017 are hereby approved.
ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
MAYOR
/TM
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& Follow-Up - Koenig Evaluation.wpd
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REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular Council Meeting was held on March 13, 2017 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, Fire Chief Carey, City Solicitor Rodriguez, and Mrs. McDowell.
Mayor Christiansen was absent.
OPEN FORUM
The Open Forum was held at 7:00 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. Katrina Stubbs, speaking about the homeless situation, advised that the process to get into a
shelter or low income housing is very long, and she did not know what could be done to speed up
the process. She stated that she works two part-time jobs, and she is still homeless. Ms. Stubbs
advised that, because she is not recovering from drugs or alcohol and does not have children, she
does not qualify because she is considered able-bodied. She stated that she has been interviewing
and looking for full-time employment but she is still homeless and without full-time employment.
Council President Slavin advised that the Blue Ribbon Commission on Homelessness was looking
at these situations and he requested Councilman Lewis to speak with Ms. Stubbs.
Reverend Robert D. Appling advised that his son, Pastor Aaron Appling, was doing missionary work
in the Philippines, feeding 300 children a day. He advised that, during the previous meeting, a
homeless veteran was sitting in front of him and, when his name was called, he was too traumatized
to speak. Reverend Appling noted that people like that really need help.
Reverend Appling stated that his wife works about 40 or 50 hours a week transporting homeless
people to various places and noted that many of these people are falling between the cracks because
they cannot follow through with getting assistance. He advised that they have no transportation, and
some are mentally incapable of keeping appointments at a scheduled time at a certain place.
Reverend Appling suggested that homeless people need help getting to the help that they need. He
also noted that his wife assisted a veteran that was going to be put in jail because he was back on his
child support, and she was successful in keeping him out of jail temporarily
Mr. Steven Hall stated that he was honored and grateful for the committee that the Mayor put
together. He advised that he had a good job, a nice home, two (2) cars, and was a tax-paying citizen
and somewhat of a pillar of the community. Mr. Hall stated that it was very frustrating to see people
that are in addictions of various kinds who are getting housing, and that if you are not an addict of
any kind, you have nothing. He advised that he had received a letter denying his disability, so he still
had no income and was still waiting for people to call him for a job and asked for prayers.
Mr. Eric Abernathy stated that he was there as an advocate for the homeless and they were asking
for some help. He advised that he was a veteran and was formerly homeless but now stays with
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017 PAGE 2
family. Mr. Abernathy noted that there are many people out there in very worse condition than he
is and they need help.
Mr. Steven French stated that the homeless need a home and they need it now because it is getting
way too cold.
Mr. David Wilkins stated that he grew up in a Christian home, was married twice, divorced twice,
lost his driving license, and ended up becoming homeless. He advised that he lived in a building
owned by Reverend Appling, and he and Aaron Appling offered him work; however, he was having
trouble getting work because everyone knew he was homeless. Mr. Wilkins stated that he is back
into productive society and has lived clean for five (5) years. He thanked Victory Church and the
patrons of Victory Church for helping those in need.
The invocation was given by Bishop Thomas L. Holsey, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Anderson requested the addition of a new item #6 - Cancellation of March 14, 2017 Council
Committee of the Whole Meeting.
Mr. Anderson moved for approval of the agenda, as amended, seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and
unanimously carried.
Mr. Lewis requested that item #4A(1) - Council Committee of the Whole Report -
February 28, 2017, Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee, Presentation by
C. David Jamison - Speed Control Measures - Independence Boulevard, be removed from the
Consent Agenda.
Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Consent Agenda, as amended, seconded by Mr. Lewis and
carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - COUNCIL RETREAT OF JANUARY 6, 2017
The Minutes of the Council Retreat of January 6, 2017 were unanimously approved by motion
of Mr. Neil, seconded by Mr. Lewis and bore the written approval of Mayor Christiansen.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF FEBRUARY 27, 2017
The Minutes of the Special Council Meeting of February 27, 2017 were unanimously approved
by motion of Mr. Neil, seconded by Mr. Lewis and bore the written approval of
Mayor Christiansen.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF FEBRUARY 27, 2017
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of February 27, 2017 were unanimously
approved by motion of Mr. Neil, seconded by Mr. Lewis and bore the written approval of
Mayor Christiansen.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017 PAGE 3
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT -
FEBRUARY 8, 2017
The Economic Development Committee met on February 8, 2017 at 2:01 p.m. with
Mayor Christiansen presiding. Members present were Councilman Cole;
Mr. Koenig, City Manager; Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and
Community Development; Mr. Gregory Moore, President, Downtown Dover
Partnership (DDP) Board of Directors; and Mr. K.C. Sheth. Councilman Hare and
Mr. Hammond were absent.
Mayor Christiansen welcomed Mr. Sheth as a new member of the Committee.
Economic Development Committee Transition Discussion
During their meeting of September 13, 2016, the Committee considered the
Economic Development Committee Transition Discussion and deferred this matter
due to time constraints.
Review Purpose of Committee and Adopt a Goal/Vision
Mayor Christiansen stated that the purpose of the Committee reflected the need, as
a body politic, to address the economic development needs of the City, provide for
that economic development, and create meaningful, well-paying jobs for citizens, as
well as to look into workforce development and incubation of small and large
businesses alike. He stated that one (1) of the main focuses of the organization
should be marketing the Downtown Development District (DDD), the Bay Road
area, and the Garrison Oak Technology Park.
Mrs. Townshend informed members that staff would begin updating the City’s
Comprehensive Plan later this year and noted that a chapter of this plan deals with,
and lays out strategies for economic development. She stated that she would look to
have this Committee involved in updating this chapter of the plan and the outreach
related to the development of that chapter, not in the immediate future, but when staff
gets to this point. Mayor Christiansen indicated that he thought that would be
appropriate.
Mr. Koenig stated that economic development relates to new business and new
facilities, but also to getting rid of vacancies and existing buildings if possible, and
he noted the benefit of fostering redevelopment of existing parcels. He also
mentioned temporary or permanent incentives to development, as well as trying to
identify particular industries that the City would like to see added to its business mix
that might be a benefit, not just to Dover but also to Kent County.
Mayor Christiansen stated that the goal and vision of the Committee should be to
continue to be a driver for new business. He noted that retention of current business
sometimes gets lost in the mix and stated that he would like to add this to the goal,
vision, and purpose of the Committee.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017 PAGE 4
Mrs. Townshend indicated that it should be made clear that retention of business
extends beyond just business and noted that there are a number of public and non-
profit sector employers that are significant to the City. She stated that the City would
not want to lose entities such as the State of Delaware offices and any of the large
employers. Mayor Christiansen suggested using the term “employers” rather than
“businesses,” noting that this would include major, minor, future, and existing
employers and would be a good generic term.
Identify Challenges to the Goal/Vision and Develop Strategies
Mrs. Townshend advised that one (1) of the challenges to the vision would be
communication. She indicated that when she attends Restoring Central Dover
meetings, she is regularly asked about the City’s new economic development
structure. Mrs. Townshend stated that the business community also probably wants
to have a sense of where to go since there is no longer a City Economic Development
Office.
Mayor Christiansen stated that the Chamber of Commerce had called and asked to
attend Economic Development Committee meetings so that there is not duplication
of efforts.
Mrs. Townshend informed members that the economic development page on the
City’s website goes back to the time when the City had staffing for economic
development. She suggested looking at what members wanted under economic
development for the website, so that someone who knows nothing about Dover and
clicks on economic development would get information regarding where to start,
rather than calling an office that is no longer there.
Mayor Christiansen asked Mr. Koenig if anybody on staff could feed current
information into that portion of the City’s website. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated
that Mr. Kirby Hudson, Assistant City Manager, would be working on this.
Mr. Cole noted that one (1) of the challenges would be existing building vacancies.
Mayor Christiansen asked if there was a current inventory of vacant buildings
downtown and throughout the City. In response, Mrs. Townshend indicated that
there is a vacant building registration that monitors the fact that buildings are vacant
but does not give details on condition. She noted that staff inspects buildings to
make sure they are secure and that most of the vacant buildings at this point would
probably need an architect in order to be re-occupied. Mrs. Townshend advised that
a building that has been vacant for five (5) years or a decade typically has some
deterioration, and there is a challenge because a lot of these buildings are not turnkey
space.
Mr. Koenig noted that the vacant building registry would not be a full inventory,
because there may be vacant commercial properties that are listed with a commercial
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017 PAGE 5
realtor. Mrs. Townshend stated that these properties would still be on the list.
Mr. Koenig commented that the realtors’ inventory changes quickly.
Mrs. Townshend advised that if part of a building is vacant, it would not be
registered. She explained, for instance, that a lot of commercial vacancies downtown
had occupied apartments above them; however, they are not part of the vacant
building registration, which only includes buildings that are fully vacant.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen regarding whether there was a way to remedy this,
Mr. Koenig advised that there was no easy way to do so. Mrs. Townshend
commented that this could only be remedied through the code; however, the code had
been changed to create this exception. She explained that staff had received a lot of
negative feedback from the real estate community because realtors did not believe it
was necessary to register properties that had vacant commercial space but also people
living in them. Mrs. Townshend indicated that the code had been changed to
accommodate this; however, it could be changed back through the action of Council.
Mr. Donald Rowe stated that he is one-half of the team that owns TR Nail Spa at
1188 Forrest Avenue. He asked if the properties on the vacant building list were split
between office spaces and warehouses and if warehouses were also available on the
list to be reviewed. Responding, Mr. Koenig advised that it is difficult for the City
to manage the information on the list, noting that there is a requirement to register
vacant buildings, but this is not a register that someone would consult to find space.
He suggested contacting a commercial realtor who could take someone through
spaces, show the pros and cons of each space, and be able to talk about cost.
Mr. Koenig explained that the City may know when a space was vacated but not the
history of the space, its quality from a rental standpoint, and if this is a space where
someone would like their business to go. Mr. Koenig indicated that commercial
realtors can be depended on for lists of available spaces and to know what the market
is doing. He informed members that the City has a very generic registry that is not
a depository of the best information to help someone to make a decision whether a
space suits them.
Ms. TR Rowe, TR Nail Spa, asked if the City could go to the Multiple Listing
Service (MLS) and ask for this information. Responding, Mr. Koenig explained that
an individual could do this. He noted that if the City did this, the City would have
to be in the process of updating this information all the time, which is not a business
line that the City had been in.
Mrs. Townshend explained that the vacant building ordinance was created as part of
the City’s code enforcement program and is managed under this program. She noted
that genesis of the ordinance was in monitoring the buildings, keeping an inventory,
and collecting fees to try to discourage people from keeping buildings needlessly
vacant. Mrs. Townshend advised that the registry is just a list of addresses and does
not distinguish between a house, a commercial building, or a warehouse. She stated
that there are registered vacant buildings of all of those varieties, but this cannot be
determined by looking at the list. She indicated that she was unsure if the City’s
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017 PAGE 6
Naviline system could be set up to do this if this was something that Council desired,
noting that this would be a very large task.
Ms. Rowe asked if a building could be listed on two (2) different registries and if
buildings downtown that have a vacant business and also apartments are listed as
business or residential. In response, Mrs. Townshend indicated that vacant buildings
are listed only as vacant and the City’s level of inventory does not include
information regarding whether the property is business or residential.
Mr. Rowe asked if realtors who own properties are required to register properties
through the City. He questioned if someone driving who saw a sign posted could
have come to the City as a starting point to find information about a building, not
necessarily its condition or what was needed to bring it up to code. Responding,
Mrs. Townshend advised that most of the vacant buildings are not owned by realtors
but by individuals, LLCs, or banks. She indicated that the City has information about
who the responsible party is that owns the property and may or may not have
information regarding who has listed it.
Ms. Rowe stated her understanding that someone coming to the City who was
looking for buildings would have to go to a realtor who would hopefully know all the
vacant buildings or businesses, and this person could not click on a City page that
would show the locations of vacant businesses. In response, Mr. Koenig stated that
he, personally, would suggest that they go to a realtor, because they would then be
connected with a broker or agent who would work tirelessly to put them in a space.
He explained that realtors would work 24/7 and call their contacts and everybody
who could put them in a space. Mr. Koenig advised that the City only knows what
is registered as vacant. He advised that if something came up the day before, it may
not be required to be on the City’s vacant building registry yet. He pointed out that
calling the City versus a realtor could cause someone to miss an opportunity because
the City would not know about this vacancy yet.
Ms. Rowe asked what City areas are eligible for incentives. She noted that Route 8
was a country area with cornfields when she was growing up, but now it is
considered the City of Dover. She advised that she had not received incentives and
asked where the incentive area starts and ends. In response, Mrs. Townshend
explained that there are a number of sets of incentives, including some that apply in
the downtown area. Ms. Rowe was provided a brochure regarding the Downtown
Development District (DDD) Program that included a map of the downtown area.
Mrs. Townshend stated that there is a set of incentives for vacant commercial and
industrial buildings that provide some relief of the building permit fee, tax relief on
the value of improvements, and a discount for applicable impact fees for commercial
and industrial buildings that are over 5,000 square feet.
In response to Ms. Rowe, Mrs. Townshend explained that DDD incentives are
separate from the incentives for vacant commercial and industrial buildings. She
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stated that any building in the DDD district can qualify for incentives; however, the
incentive with the 5,000 square foot limitation could apply outside of the DDD.
Mr. Koenig advised that it is best to set up a meeting with staff to go over all the
incentives, because they vary depending on location within in the City. He stated that
information regarding incentives is on the City’s website and staff had reviewed
incentive information with realtors, although realtors change and they may not always
have current information. Mr. Koenig suggested setting up an appointment to go
over the individual incentive packages, especially if there is an idea of an actual
property where there is interest, noting that this is very much a one-on-one
conversation.
Mr. Koenig stated that, during the Council Retreat held on January 6, 2017, members
discussed a business ombudsman position, which would potentially be a new position
created in a future budget. He explained that people could make an appointment to
see the ombudsman, explain what they want to do, and find out what incentives the
City has to offer. Mr. Koenig advised that a businessperson could bring in their
representatives, such as a real estate agent, engineer, or others representing their
interests, and meet with a number of different staff people. He advised that the City
does not have an ombudsman right now; however, there were many members of staff
who could at least get Mr. and Ms. Rowe through the first couple of steps.
Mr. Koenig indicated that one (1) of the current problems at the staff level was that
people come in with an idea but do not bring in all the information, which in many
cases they do not have. He stated that they may not have their agent or engineer with
them, and everyone tries to make notes that may not make sense when they go back
to review them. Mr. Koenig explained that the City was in a transition, reiterating
that there had been discussion at the Council retreat about potentially having a person
who could help people navigate some of the regulatory hurdles of opening a business,
reach out to more people, and get more small businesses interested in the City of
Dover.
Ms. Rowe indicated that approximately five (5) staff members had come to her
business. She stated that they did not have complete information, noting that some
of them thought that she was eligible for the incentives. Ms. Rowe advised that she
had a representative from every facet that she would need to make her business come
to fruition. Mrs. Townshend stated that there had been staff there from the regulatory
end but not the incentive end. She noted that the business was just outside the DDD.
Mayor Christiansen suggested considering the expansion of the incentive district in
the future. Responding, Mrs. Townshend advised that, under the State program, the
City was limited to 225 acres for the DDD program and was maxed out.
In response to Mayor Christiansen regarding other City incentives, Mr. Koenig
advised that these incentives were at the pleasure of Council. Mayor Christiansen
stated that Mr. and Ms. Rowe could appeal to Council through the Economic
Development Committee, and Ms. Rowe asked for the process for this.
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Mrs. Townshend advised that this would require a legislative change and that this
was something that could come out of the Committee.
Mayor Christiansen asked Ms. Rowe to write a letter to the Economic Development
Committee making her request.
Mrs. Townshend stated that TR Rowe Nail Spa was under 5,000 square feet, and
Ms. Rowe confirmed this. Mrs. Townshend advised that if the business was larger
than 5,000 square feet, it would have been eligible for one (1) set of incentives, so
it may be a matter of reviewing the current 5,000 square foot threshold.
Organizational Items
During their meeting of September 13, 2016, the Committee considered the
Economic Development Committee Transition Discussion and deferred this matter,
due to time constraints.
Identify Meeting Roles
Mayor Christiansen advised that he would be a non-voting, ex officio member of the
Committee, as specified by Council. He noted that Councilman Hare would
represent the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee, Councilman Cole
would represent the Utility Committee, Mr. Koenig would serve on the Committee
as City Manager, Mrs. Townshend would represent the Planning Office, and
Mr. Hammond and Mr. Sheth were citizen members. He explained that the
Committee was established by Council’s action in 2016 and the structure was
amended by adding additional members. Mayor Christiansen stated that the
Economic Development Committee is a Council committee, and appointments are
made by the Council President and approved by Council. He stated that the
membership of the Committee had been established by the members of Council.
Mr. Bobby Wilson asked if another African American would be appointed to the
Committee. In response, Mayor Christiansen explained that he could not answer this
and suggested that Mr. Wilson ask the Council President, because he made the
appointments to the Committee.
Discuss and Adopt Ground Rules for Future Meetings
Mr. Koenig questioned how the agenda would be set for future meetings and noted
that all the other agendas for Council committees are set at the Council President
Agenda meeting. Responding, Mayor Christiansen stated, since he was charged with
the responsibility of chairing the Committee, that members should present agenda
items to him, and the agenda would be established through him. Mayor Christiansen
advised that the public should contact Committee members or the Mayor if they
would like to bring items forward for the agenda.
Mayor Christiansen stated the desire to meet every two (2) weeks and noted that there
were requirements under the State of Delaware Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
to post meeting agendas seven (7) days prior to each meeting. Mrs. Jody Stein, City
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Clerk, noted that the agenda title deadline is typically approximately 12 days before
each meeting.
Mr. Christiansen suggested having information to the Mayor’s Office on days of the
Council President’s agenda meeting.
Mayor Christiansen stated the desire to hold meetings every two (2) weeks and
suggested 2:00 p.m. on Wednesdays.
Mr. Koenig moved to meet at 2:00 p.m. on the Wednesdays that the Council
President’s agenda meeting are held, seconded by Mr. Cole and unanimously carried.
Mayor Christiansen stated that Dr. Michael Casson, Delaware State University
Center for Economic Development and Trade (UCEDIT) Program, would like to
make a presentation on behalf of Delaware State University at the Committee’s
second meeting in March. In addition, he noted that he had invited
Mayor Mike Purzycki from Wilmington to speak to members and this would be
added to the agenda as soon as Mayor Purzycki provided a firm date.
Mr. Frederick Tolbert asked if meeting minutes would be made available.
Responding, Mrs. Townshend explained that minutes would be posted to the City’s
website.
Mrs. Townshend noted that the Committee would have meetings on March 1, 2017;
March 15, 2017; and March 29, 2017.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for acceptance of the Economic Development Committee
Report, seconded by Mr. Lewis and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT - MARCH 1, 2017
The Economic Development Committee met on March 1, 2017 at 2:03 p.m. with
Mayor Christiansen presiding. Members present were Mr. Hudson, Assistant City
Manager; Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community
Development; Mr. Hammond; Mr. Gregory Moore, President, Downtown Dover
Partnership (DDP) Board of Directors; and Mr. Sheth. Mr. Cole, Mr. Hare, and
Mr. Koenig were absent.
Mrs. Townshend moved to defer Item #1A - Adoption of Mission Statement until the
next meeting and to approve the agenda as amended. The motion was seconded by
Mr. Hudson and unanimously carried.
NEW BUSINESS
Request for Incentives - Nail Spa by TR
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development,
referred to the letter dated February 17, 2017 received from Ms. TR Rowe, Nail Spa
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by TR, requesting incentives. She explained that the letter requested that a variety
of incentives that are available within the Downtown Development District (DDD)
be applied to Nail Spa by TR, and Mrs. Townshend noted that this would mean
applying the incentives to an area larger than the DDD.
Referring to the list of incentives requested in the letter, Mrs. Townshend explained
that incentives #1 - Architectural Support and #2 - Facade Improvement Grants were
Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP) incentives that the City of Dover does not have
authority over and could not act on. She advised that incentive #3 - Sustainable
Energy Utility and #7- Kent County Incentives were administered by Kent County,
noting that #7 applied only to projects in the State’s designated DDD.
Mrs. Townshend advised that the remaining incentives, which were in the City’s
purview to consider, included #4 - Business License Fee Waiver, #5 - Permit Fee
Waiver, #6 - Property Tax Abatement, and #8 - Square Footage. Members were
provided Appendix E - Commercial and Industrial Building Redevelopment
Incentives of the Dover Code. Mrs. Townshend explained that it is this section of the
code, rather than the DDD incentives, that requires a 5,000 square foot minimum.
Mrs. Townshend stated that the business license fee waiver incentive was created
when the City submitted its DDD application. She noted that the application
requested that the City develop incentives that would be specific to the district and
would not be Citywide; therefore, she stated that she did not believe the City was in
a position to alter this incentive.
Mrs. Townshend stated that she thought an option that might be available to Council,
if they wanted to move forward, would be to consider the commercial and industrial
building redevelopment incentives in Appendix E. She noted that these incentives
are slightly different and not quite as generous as the DDD incentives, nonetheless
they have some cash value. Mrs. Townshend explained that Appendix E addresses
vacant commercial and industrial buildings or tenant spaces and tries to encourage
their utilization. She noted that a minimum 5,000 square foot floor area had been set
for projects to qualify for these specific incentives, and if this requirement was
eliminated, a project such as the Nail Spa by TR would be eligible for the incentives
under that program. Referring to Appendix E, Article III - Incentives, she pointed out
that the program allows for a partial waiver of permit fees, and that 50% of the fees
for building, plumbing, mechanical, and fire protection permits would be waived, as
well as 50% of the City impact fees. Mrs. Townshend advised that there would be
a property tax waiver not to exceed 10 years on the value of the improvements.
Mrs. Townshend stated that if members wanted to entertain projects such as this in
the future, simply striking the 5,000 square foot minimum would work. She noted
that if they wanted the change to apply retroactively to the requested project, an
ordinance amendment would be needed to strike the 5,000 square foot minimum and
include a retroactive date so that the amendment could be applied to any other
property that would qualify. Mrs. Townshend cautioned members that if the
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amendment is retroactive, the City would be refunding money that it has already
collected due to the need to be fair. She stated that the 5,000 square foot minimum
could not be stricken for just one (1) business and not for others.
Mr. Moore asked if the response to the request for incentives #1 and #2 would be that
applications for these incentives must be filed separately to the DDP. Responding,
Mrs. Townshend explained that Nail Spa by TR was outside the downtown area;
therefore it would not qualify.
She advised that the answer from the City would be that incentives #1, #2, #3, and
#7 are not within the City's purview to do anything about, but the City could
specifically look at Appendix E of the code to address the fee waiver request.
Ms. TR Rowe, TR Rowe Nail Spa, 1188 Forrest Avenue, explained that her business
is located in an area on Forrest Avenue that was expanding, noting that Autozone,
Starbucks, a bank, and some more facilities will be coming out that way. She stated
that, although this was not a historic district like the downtown area, people would
be employed, which would help the City of Dover, and this was why she was asking
for these considerations.
Mayor Christiansen suggested forwarding this matter to Council for assignment to
the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee for review of
Mrs. Townshend’s recommendations and the recommendations of the Committee,
and perhaps consider the request for reciprocity on the current project to hopefully
encourage expansion once everything else out there starts to expand.
The Committee recommended forwarding this matter to Council and to present a
proposed amendment to the ordinance to the Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee, along with a retroactive date and the number of other
permits and properties the amendment would apply to, so that there would be a sense
of what the amendment would do to the revenue that had already been collected.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Committee's recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Lewis and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Presentation - Icehouse Entrepreneur Development Program
(Clayton Hammond)
Mr. Clayton Hammond, President, Delmarva Black Chamber of Commerce, advised
that minority entrepreneur businesses are growing three (3) times faster than general
businesses and that the Delmarva Black Chamber of Commerce felt a need to begin
to accelerate or replicate that growth in Dover. He noted that a significant number
of the businesses making investments in downtown Dover are African American
businesses. Mr. Hammond explained that small businesses are important to the
economy of Dover because of the desire not to have the economy specifically linked
to large corporations such as Kraft-Heinz, whose decisions are not made locally but
outside of Dover.
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Mr. Hammond indicated that the Delmarva Black Chamber Icehouse Program is
unique in that it is not a traditional entrepreneur development program, most of
which focus on developing business plans. He stated that the Icehouse program helps
to provide an understanding of how to adopt the entrepreneurial mindset to low-
income people, the youth, people who are engaged in activities that are not positive,
and people involved in workforce development. Mr. Hammond stated that there are
certain qualities and characteristics that denote successful entrepreneurs and, while
a lot of programs help develop business plans, they do not necessarily relate to what
it takes to have the mindset of being an entrepreneur. He advised that the Icehouse
program was developed by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, in Kansas City,
which is the premiere entrepreneurial foundation in the country. Mr. Hammond
stated that the program immerses individuals in the real world of entrepreneurship
with various projects that relate to their development skills. He noted that
participants are partnered with successful entrepreneurs in their field, because there
is nothing better than learning how to be successful from successful people.
Mr. Hammond advised that everybody may not be an entrepreneur and the timing of
being an entrepreneur is critical; however, everyone can benefit from an
entrepreneurial mindset, whether they are a business owner or an employee. He
indicated that this program offers a framework for participants to lift themselves up
out of poverty and have an empowered mindset, apart from an employer controlling
their destiny. Mr. Hammond stated that the initial concept was to have 10-12
participants; however, there had been challenges in coming up with that number,
noting that they had four (4) confirmed participants. He advised that participants are
required to attend for seven (7) weeks, and those who cannot attend may not
participate. Mr. Hammond indicated that many people had said that the $200 cost
was too much for them, even though it was broken down into weekly payments.
Mr. Hammond explained that there were several issues they hoped to address over
the next few weeks, including coming up with a pool of applicants. He expressed
their commitment to a target date of April to start the program. Mr. Hammond
advised that they wanted to enlist more churches and organizations in the City to be
trusted messengers in getting the word out and utilize print and broadcast media more
to enlighten readers and viewers about the program. He noted that they had received
feedback that many people thought the program was only for black people because
the Delmarva Black Chamber of Commerce’s name was put on the flyer, even though
it was clearly stated that it was for everyone in the City. Mr. Hammond stated that,
in the future, their name would take taken off when marketing.
Mayor Christiansen asked if the Delmarva Black Chamber of Commerce would be
interested in co-joiners to the program. Responding, Mr. Hammond stated that they
would be happy to add the Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP) and Restoring
Central Dover logos to make this broad based. Mr. Hammond advised that they
would also partner with the Dover Housing Authority and the Delaware State
Housing Authority to reach their population, which is a target population that
includes people on assistance and those who are trying to lift themselves up. He
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advised that they would provide scholarships for select low income people in the
target area and throughout Dover. Mr. Hammond stated they hoped that these plans
would help them reach their target goal of 10 participants, noting that it did not make
sense to invest time and money for only four (4) participants. He explained that they
were committed to the program and thought it would be helpful in creating home-
based businesses, internet businesses, and micro-enterprise in the City that would
produce jobs, revenue, personal income, and licensing fees.
Mayor Christiansen noted that Dr. Michael Casson, from the Delaware State
University Center for Economic Development and Trade (UCEDIT ) Program, would
be making a presentation on business incubation to the Committee, and asked if the
Icehouse project could dovetail with Dr. Casson’s efforts. In response,
Mr. Hammond that it could, noting that workforce development people were part of
their target market. He noted that for many years the State had said that
unemployment money could be used for entrepreneur training, and this was a target
market that was needed. Mr. Hammond indicated that he had already spoken to
Dr. Casson about this.
Mayor Christiansen questioned if Mr. Hammond was working with any other
partners in the community. Responding, Mr. Hammond stated that they were
reaching out to the Cen-Del Foundation and were trying to move past the view that
this program was just for black people. Mr. Hammond asked for additional
suggestions, noting that they would be happy to partner with anyone because they
feel this is a great program that had met with a lot of success in other cities and that
they just had to get the word out.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen regarding the program’s funding, Mr. Hammond
stated that funding was through the DDP and Restoring Central Dover.
Mr. David Hugg, 125 West South Street, Smyrna, Delaware, asked if Mr. Hammond
was touching base with the Kauffman-funded One Million Cups program at
Delaware Technical and Community College. He noted that this program has a
similar focus, meets every Wednesday morning, and is for predominantly new
entrepreneurs. Mr. Hugg explained that a group from across the business and
government spectrum talks with program participants about their businesses or
business plans and noted that this is a very good program. In response,
Mr. Hammond stated that he had held conversations with people about this program,
noting that the One Million Cups is for existing businesses, which would be next in
the process and part of the evolution. He indicated the need for Icehouse to partner
with One Million Cups since people need to develop a business plan. Mr. Hammond
stated that their target market would be to help people understand the concept of
being an entrepreneur, noting that not everyone is or should be an entrepreneur.
In response to Ms. TR Rowe regarding when the program would be held,
Mr. Hammond explained that Saturday seemed to be the only day that people could
participate, and it was found that evenings did not work. Mr. Hammond indicated
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that the program would be held on seven (7) consecutive Saturdays at Whatcoat
Church from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and lunch would be provided.
Mayor Christiansen asked if the program would also be beneficial to established
businesses, noting that some businesses could use assistance. Responding,
Mr. Hammond advised that it would be useful for some entrepreneurs who do not
understand the nuances of business. However, he suggested that those who have
businesses that are up and running would benefit more from going to the Small
Business Development Center or One Million Cups. Mr. Hammond explained that
Icehouse was geared toward those who are interested in pursuing entrepreneurship
but do not know how to do it.
Mrs. Kim Hawkins, Human Resources Director, asked who the instructors are.
Responding, Mr. Hammond advised that the instructors are local experts in the field
and that the program’s core themes are opportunity, resources, wealth creation, and
choice. He stated that Mr. Mike Cassidy from the Delaware Economic Development
Office had been invited to discuss opportunities. Mr. Hammond indicated that the
program’s facilitators had gone through the Icehouse training program, noting that
he and someone else in his division were the only people certified in the State of
Delaware.
Mrs. Townshend indicated that flyers for the program were available in the lobby of
City Hall.
In response to Ms. Rowe regarding posting information on Facebook, Mr. Hammond
indicated that several people had put information on Facebook and Linked In;
however, there was a need to connect with people to help them understand the
program and how it would benefit them. He noted that they had met with people who
did not want to participate to find out the disconnect and how to advance.
Mr. Hammond stated that the program had been posted to the Facebook page for the
Delmarva Black Chamber of Commerce and, and the Resident Empowerment
Director for the Dover Housing Authority had also posted it on her Facebook page.
Mayor Christiansen suggested approaching the Central Delaware Chamber of
Commerce about putting it on their website, and Mr. Hammond stated that he would
be speaking to them about this.
Mayor Christiansen noted that Dr. Casson would be making a presentation to the
Committee during the meeting in March and Mayor Mike Purzycki from the City of
Wilmington would be presenting an overview of Wilmington’s economic
development success in April. Mr. Hammond asked if Mayor Purzycki would be
discussing what he had done for the riverfront or his vision for the City as whole. In
response, Mayor Christiansen stated that Mayor Purzycki’s crowning glory was the
riverfront; however, it was his understanding that Mayor Purzycki had a vision for
continued economic development beyond the river involving Southbridge and other
neighborhoods in of Wilmington.
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Mr. Kirby Hudson, Assistant City Manager, advised that Market Street in
Wilmington was starting to take flight. He noted that Wilmington had received
money through a program that the City of Dover did not get and business owners
were recipients of those dollars. Mr. Hudson indicated that he lives in Wilmington
and, when traveling through the area on a Friday night, parking cannot be found.
Mr. Hudson explained that a couple of years ago this area had been a ghost town, and
they were doing a good job in this area.
Mayor Christiansen indicated that he and Mr. Hammond would be visiting businesses
in the downtown area and throughout the City to check on their health.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for acceptance of the Economic Development Committee
Report, seconded by Mr. Lewis and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT - FEBRUARY 28, 2017
The Council Committee of the Whole Meeting was held on February 28, 2017 at
6:00 p.m., with Mr. Hare presiding in the absence of Council President Slavin.
Members of Council present were Mr. Anderson (arrived at 6:13 p.m.), Mr. Neil,
Mr. Lewis (departed at 7:31 p.m. and returned at 7:48 p.m.), Mr. Cole (arrived at 6:04 p.m.),
Mr. Hosfelt, and Mr. Hutchison. Mr. Sudler was absent. Mayor Christiansen (arrived
at 6:18 p.m.) was also present. Civilian members present for their Committee meetings
were Mr. Keller and Mr. Shelton (Safety Advisory and Transportation). Ms. Arndt
and Mr. Blakeman (Utility) were absent.
SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
The Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee met with Councilman Hosfelt
presiding.
Presentation by C. David Jamison - Speed Control Measures - Independence
Boulevard
During the Regular City Council Meeting of May 9, 2016, Council considered Speed
Control Measures - Independence Boulevard and approved the recommendation of
the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) and the working group for the
roundabout, as recommended by the Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee.
Mr. Hosfelt reminded members that discussions regarding traffic control measures
for Independence Boulevard had begun during the Safety Advisory and
Transportation Committee meeting of July 27, 2015. He noted that, over the course
of time, there had been several meetings regarding this matter, and State
Representative Sean Lynn and the Mayor’s Office had been involved in trying to help
the people in this neighborhood and along the streets due to safety, speeding, and
other concerns. He noted that, after speaking with residents, it was felt strongly that
Mr. C. David Jamison and Retired Colonel Tom Dix, who lives on Independence
Boulevard, should be heard from to get their opinions. Mr. Hosfelt explained that
because action on this project was previously approved by Council, no action could
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be taken during this meeting and the matter would have to go back to Council.
Mr. Hosfelt advised that Mr. Jamison and Colonel Dix would each be given
15 minutes to speak, and then members would hear from any residents who wished
to speak regarding this matter.
Mr. C. David Jamison, 423 Columbia Avenue, advised members that his son Kirk
lives on Lamplighter Lane, and Mr. Jamison often visits him and goes to Capriotti’s,
Ace Hardware, etc. He stated that when he found out a year ago that traffic calming
measures were proposed, he communicated and met with Mr. Mike Somers, City
Transportation Planner and Traffic Calming Project Manager, DelDOT; however,
they agreed to disagree on this issue. Mr. Jamison explained that he had seen
Representative Sean Lynn’s campaign flyers in September that promised proposed
traffic calming measures. He advised that on three (3) separate occasions he had
asked Mr. Lynn to meet to talk about the project; however, Mr. Lynn was committed
to the working group’s plan, so there was no need to meet, and they agreed to
disagree. Mr. Jamison explained that he then researched the minutes of the City
Council meeting of May 9, 2016 and decided that he would have to prepare a report
evaluating the proposed traffic calming measures. He stated his belief that members
had received a final copy of his report on January 27, 2017. (City Clerk’s Office
Note: A report entitled “Independence Boulevard Traffic Calming Measures
Report” was received via email from Mr. Jamison on January 23, 2017; the Mayor
and members of City Council were copied on his email, and it was forwarded to
the civilian members of the Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee on
January 24, 2017.)
Mr. Jamison reviewed a presentation entitled “Independence Boulevard Traffic
Calming Measures Report.” Following his presentation, he noted that he had
presented his message using common sense and hoped that members heard it using
common sense. Mr. Jamison expressed his hope that, at the end of the day, he could
say that everyone agreed to agree.
Mr. Anderson asked if any money had already been spent on the project and, if so,
how much. He also noted that upon reviewing the petitions of those opposed, none
of those who signed were on Independence Boulevard. Mr. Anderson stated that he
had noticed signatures from Green Blade Drive and other areas, but none were in the
impact area. He indicated that an impact area survey is the responsibility of DelDOT,
not the City, and asked if DelDOT had done the survey. Responding, Mr. Jamison
stated that the survey was the result of flyers by people who were opposed to the
project and was not an official survey; however, he would more than welcome an
official one.
Mr. Anderson stated that the official survey was supposed to have been mailed out
by DelDOT and asked if Mr. Jamison knew the results from it. In response,
Mr. Jamison stated that he was surprised that no one had brought this up at the
meeting last May and questioned why the project was approved without the votes.
He expressed his belief that Colonel Dix would verify that flyers were given out on
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Independence Boulevard, and explained that he did not know why they did not
respond to it, but he assured members that they were delivered there. Mr. Jamison
reiterated that this was not an official survey, which he would more than welcome,
and was sure that anyone against the project would also welcome it. He stated that
he was sure that the result would be the same.
Mr. Hosfelt indicated that DelDOT had recently offered to do an official survey and
there had been some conversation between himself and Mr. Lynn to get on the same
page to make that happen.
Mr. Anderson stated that there had been a Bicentennial Civic Association meeting
where this was a hot topic, even though that area was broader than the probable
impact area. He asked what the result of that meeting was. Responding,
Mr. Jamison indicated that he was not there. Mr. Hosfelt informed members that, at
the latest meeting, residents had basically four (4) different opinions, as follows:
1) leave it as is, with the traffic roundabout at Independence Boulevard and Colony
Drive, which was the only thing that had been approved at this point in time; 2) do
a traffic realignment, which was originally thought to be part of the motion but was
not included the way the motion was worded; 3) do nothing at all; or 4) go with a
digital speed sign. He indicated that the meeting was well attended and the majority
wanted to disregard the traffic roundabout at Colony Drive and instead go with the
traffic realignment along Independence Boulevard in the area of the park. He noted
that this was the opinion of the majority of the residents, but it had been close.
Mr. Hare noted that there had been some speeding issues on Wyoming Avenue,
which has approximately 30 residents, and is approximately the same length as
Independence Boulevard, which has approximately 13 residents. He stated that those
in the Woodbrook area had been looking at stop signs but proposed a roundabout for
that area in lieu of stop signs, which Mr. Hare indicated was not a bad idea. Mr. Hare
asked, if the roundabout does not go forward on Independence Boulevard, that the
money not be given to street repairs since it might be used to put a roundabout on
Wyoming Avenue. Responding, Mr. Jamison stated that he was unsure what State
representative district the Wyoming Avenue area would fall under. Mr. Hare noted
that Senator Brian Bushweller and Representative Sean Lynn both represent this area.
Mr. Hutchison commented that a radar speed sign had been placed on North State
Street between Walker Road and Division Street. He stated that he traveled that road
every day during the early morning, day, and evening and noted the behavior of
people driving there had changed. Mr. Jamison noted that people do react to these
signs.
Mr. Keller stated that he agreed with Mr. Hutchison’s remarks, noting that the radar
speed sign would be an excellent compromise.
Mr. Lewis asked how much work DelDOT had already started or how much had been
spent on this project. Responding, Mr. Jamison stated that he had been trying to get
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a set of plans. He indicated that he did not know if the project was on hold and to
date he had only received conceptual plans.
Mr. Lewis expressed his understanding that work had started on the project since it
had been approved. Mr. Hosfelt explained that a representative from DelDOT would
be speaking later in the meeting.
Mr. Jamison commended Mr. Will Garfinkel, noting that Mr. Garfinkel was running
as a candidate for City Council in the First District and gave time and effort to this
project. He also stated his desire to salute all of the members of Council, explaining
that it was not a high-paying job but members were giving their time and efforts to
the City of Dover, and he appreciated and respected them.
Mr. Jamison commented that Mr. Hutchison had decided not to run for re-election
in the First District and noted that he had attended Dover High School with
Mr. Hutchison. He stated that Mr. Hutchison was a man who stood up for what he
believed in and would not back down. Mr. Jamison informed members that he,
himself, had gotten an engineering degree and went to work for DelDOT as a
highway engineer and then into private practice, noting that his focus had always
been the safety and welfare of the traveling public. He advised that Mr. Hutchison
became Chief of Police, Mayor, and Councilman, and his whole life had been
dedicated to the safety and welfare of the citizens of Dover. Mr. Jamison asked that
those present join him in showing appreciation to Mr. Hutchison and acknowledging
all that he had done. Mr. Anderson noted that Mr. Hutchison had also served in the
Delaware Army National Guard.
Retired Colonel Thomas Dix, 664 Independence Boulevard, reviewed
correspondence and attachments dated February 27, 2017, addressed to the Office of
the Mayor and Council. He referred to the comment in his letter that the DelDOT
Traffic Calming Design Manual indicates that radar speed signs “Can cause speeds
to be reduced within a community,” and explained that “can” is a funny word that
means able or possible; however, a radar speed sign had been on Bicentennial
Boulevard since June and did not work. Colonel Dix stated that Mr. Doug Stamm,
who lives right by the sign, had stated that it was ineffective.
Colonel Dix expressed skepticism that substituting two (2) yellow lines and one (1)
blinking radar light for proven traffic calming measures would solve all of the
problems, stating that he felt that he had been trampled. He pointed out that there are
13 people who have an Independence Boulevard address, and over 250 people in
Bicentennial Village. Colonel Dix advised that people who live on the end of a
cul-de-sac and are coming off of a dead-end street were telling him what 5,000 cars
are like going in front of his house. He indicated that when he moved there in 1999,
he did not have 5,000 cars in front of his house, but he has them now. Colonel Dix
questioned if this is how people should be treated, stating that it is not right to punish
a minority group. Colonel Dix added that a single radar speed sign only works in one
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(1) direction and asked if there would be another one (1) for traffic going the other
way.
Colonel Dix noted that Mr. Jamison had mentioned that yellow center line stripes can
reduce speeds by between two (2) mph and seven (7) mph, and emphasized that
“can” indicates that this is possible but not highly probable. He noted that this had
been proven since lines were painted and he expected speeds to reduce; however,
they increased from 29.1 mph to 29.4 mph. Colonel Dix indicated that, in talking
about the number of accidents on Independence Boulevard, Mr. Jamison had shown
a site and mentioned an accident in 2013 when a driver hit the entrance sign.
Colonel Dix advised that he knew that someone hit the marquee in 2014 and it was
finally fixed in 2015, and he did not know where Mr. Jamison got his data from.
Colonel Dix indicated that Captain David Spicer, Dover Police Department, had
previously stated that there were 10 accidents in 2015 and that the year before there
were only three (3). Colonel Dix expressed his opinion that this street was going to
hell in a hand basket, and he thanked Captain Spicer for bringing this to everyone’s
attention.
Colonel Dix stated that Mr. Jamison had commented about a speed problem and
referenced an average speed of 29 mph, as if this was okay. Colonel Dix indicated
that this was not okay when the recent study showed that 9.2% were above the
ticketing speed of 35 mph. He advised that averages do not tell anything and noted
that, by simple math, an average speed of 29.1 mph can be the average between 34.1
and 21.1 mph. Colonel Dix advised that those who are traveling 25.1 mph are the
ones who want to obey the speed limit, and those who are traveling just below
35 mph do not want a ticket. He estimated that 2% - 3% of the drivers go as fast as
they can, noting that in the latest survey in February, three (3) cars were clocked at
over 70 mph. Colonel Dix asked if he was living on a raceway and was supposed to
put up with this. He stated that 250 people were telling 13 people that they do not
have a problem and they begged to differ. Colonel Dix reiterated that he was a
minority and did not want to be treated as a minority.
Colonel Dix informed members that he had given over two (2) years of his life
working on this project. He stated that when he started working on this project he
recommended speed cushions and blocking the road at Redner’s. He indicated that
he had listened to the best that Delaware could give as far as traffic calming.
Colonel Dix noted that DelDOT has a whole section that does traffic calming that
indicated that a roundabout and realigned intersection were needed. He stated that
he was not pumping anything and had just gone along with the people who were
supposed to know what they are talking about, and noted that Mr. Garfinkel and
Mr. Stamm had gone along with them too. Colonel Dix indicated that he was now
being tortured by 250 people who do not live on Independence Boulevard.
Mr. Neil commented that in theater the two (2) protagonists are the most important
people and stated his belief that what Mr. Jamison and Colonel Dix had done was
brilliant and the type of thing that members need to hear from citizens. He indicated
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that he would award them a tie; however, that would be the easy way out, and a
decision would have to be made. Mr. Neil thanked them for their enlightening
presentations and the time and effort they put into this matter, noting that they would
make members’ job tougher rather than easier.
Mr. Anderson, noting that Colonel Dix had stated that almost 10% of the traffic was
above 35 mph, asked if the median speed was known. In response, Colonel Dix
provided a report for Mr. Anderson to review.
Mr. Lewis asked why the people who were now opposed to the project were not
present to voice their opposition when it was approved by Council. Responding,
Mr. Hosfelt explained that, from what he had heard, there was some confusion about
whether or not those people were invited to meetings or they had not felt that they
were notified properly. Mr. Lewis indicated that the meetings are publicized.
Mr. Hutchison thanked Colonel Dix for the work he had done, noting that at the end
of the day everyone was here for one (1) reason, public safety. He stated that he had
25 years in law enforcement, knows about public safety, rides up and down State
Street every day, and radar systems and speed signs work. Mr. Hutchison advised
that putting radar systems on either side and monitoring and reviewing this area
would cost approximately $5,000, which would be a lot cheaper. He advised that if
the radar systems did not work, there is a traffic study that says that the roundabout
would be another alternative, and noted that the big project should not be done first.
Mr. Hutchison informed members that he could not guarantee that the radar speed
signs would work; however, he guaranteed that the traffic on State Street changed
because of those signs. He stated that he was asking Colonel Dix and everyone else
in the community to consider that if the radar signs are put up and they work,
everyone would win. Mr. Hutchison explained that he was not saying anything
against the study and roundabout because this could be plan B if the signs do not
work.
Colonel Dix commented that a study had been done, noting that a flashing radar light
was put up on June 2nd on Bicentennial Boulevard. He reviewed an email regarding
the flashing radar sign from Mr. Stamm.
Mr. Hutchison asked if signs were put both ways on Bicentennial Boulevard, and
Colonel Dix advised that they were not. Mr. Hutchison noted that North State Street
had signs in both directions.
Mr. Lewis advised that he was not an expert on radar signs but had seen people speed
right by them and not be a deterred at all. He indicated that they are not 100%
effective.
Mr. Keller explained that he had also been up and down State Street daily and had
seen a definite decrease, noting that there would always be scofflaws no matter what
the street or traffic control measures are. He questioned what the City had to lose
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with the $5,000 outlay described by Mr. Hutchison and noted that if it did not work,
plan B could be used. Mr. Keller advised that he agreed 100% with this approach.
Mr. Mike Somers, City Transportation Planner and Traffic Calming Project Manager,
DelDOT, referred to Mr. Anderson’s questions regarding why a DelDOT survey was
not done for the entire community. He explained that this was not a DelDOT project
but a City of Dover project, and DelDOT was a support arm. Mr. Somers advised
that DelDOT will give the City what is needed, do what the City asks them to do, and
do the design work; however, in a municipality, the municipality governs the process.
He explained that the option in Dover was whether the group wanted DelDOT to
ballot the community or whether they wanted to go through Council and the group
decided to take it to Council. Mr. Somers pointed out that DelDOT had not forgotten
to do a survey, this was the way it was chosen to be done in this case. Noting that it
was mentioned that DelDOT had offered to do a survey now, he explained that this
was because of his concern that there was a disconnect. Mr. Somers indicated that
there was confusion, one (1) group was saying that they wanted it, another group
saying that they did not, and the votes were not all that far apart, so he made the offer
to do a survey.
In regard to the cost of the project, Mr. Somers advised that additional costs beyond
what had been mentioned were not anticipated. In terms of the status, he indicated
that everything was mostly done and the project was in the process of being passed
around the department for review. Mr. Somers advised that, even though there was
no impact outside of the right-of-way and there should not be any impact off the
asphalt, the project must still be passed by the environmental group, etc., according
to the rules. He noted that if it comes back stating that Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) or other adjustments are needed, this will have to be done, but the plans
were finished for the most part. Mr. Somers explained that the plans were not being
handed out because they were not finished, and they do not hand out working draft
plans. He stated that once plans are complete, they will be public record, and
anybody who wants to see them would be more than welcome to do so.
Mr. Anderson questioned how much had been invested in the project so far. In
response, Mr. Somers stated that he had not brought those numbers with him but
estimated a range of $25,000 to $30,000, noting that it was mostly consultant money.
Mr. Anderson indicated that he had looked at the report that Colonel Dix provided
to him for review, and noted that approximately 85% of the traffic was above the
posted speed limit and approximately 45% was above 30 mph. He asked if this was
within normal parameters. Responding, Mr. Somers indicated that this was getting
into speculation; however, it was not uncommon to see those kinds of numbers on
a fairly straight road like this. He noted that, other than the one (1) end where all of
the houses were directly on the road, most of rest of the road was pretty open and
there was nobody living on it directly. Mr. Somers advised that speed limits are set
for a reason, they are not supposed to be suggestions, and police try to enforce a
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specific speed because those speeds have been designated as safe speeds for a
particular route.
For clarification, Mr. Lewis asked what stage DelDOT was at as far as work being
done on the project, and if it was in the early stages of drafting, diagrams, and
blueprints. In response, Mr. Somers stated that for the most part the plans were
finished but were being passed around for in-house review. He explained that a
contract had been lined up with a commitment to include this project on it, and the
money had been allocated and approved, so DelDOT was ready to move.
Mr. Lewis asked if the money had been disseminated. Responding, Mr. Somers
stated that the money had been contributed by the legislators, transferred to the
programs, and was ready to go. He pointed out that it is Community Transportation
Funding (CTF), which is an allocation of funds that each legislator receives annually
for projects in their district. Mr. Somers noted that the City also receives money
directly without the legislators’ involvement, and Mr. Anderson advised that it was
Municipal Street Aid. Mr. Somers stated that these funds are supposed to be used
within the City. Referring to Mr. Hare’s comments about using the money
somewhere else, Mr. Somers indicated that this was not necessarily the case, noting
that he would not get into the legislators’ business about this.
In response to Mr. Lewis about whether the funds could be used elsewhere,
Mr. Somers indicated that the legislators could put it somewhere else, but it would
have to be a similar project. He noted that the funding was there and if it is not
grabbed when it is available, it may or may not be available next time. Mr. Somers
reiterated that he would not presume to get involved in the legislators’ business about
this.
Mr. Neil asked, if this matter was put on hold for now and had to be brought back at
a later time, whether the City would lose any of the plans or if anything would change
regarding what had already been done. In response, Mr. Somers stated that a month-
and-a-half ago, when he was told that there were questions, he discussed this in-
house with his supervisor. He stated that, regardless of what comes out of the
process, DelDOT will finish the plans, and if the City decides not to move forward,
DelDOT will still have the plans. He cautioned that the plans would have to be
reviewed to make sure that nothing has changed with the laws and regulations if this
moves forward in two (2) to five (5) years; however, they probably would not have
to be changed much. Mr. Somers noted that the money was another issue, and it may
or may not be there. He indicated that the plans would be recorded, archived, and set
aside until they are called upon.
Mr. Shelton asked how long the money would be allocated for. Responding,
Mr. Somers estimated that funds would be in place for this project for a maximum
of four (4) years; however, he explained that he did not know what that would mean
if the funds were moved out of this project into something else. He indicated that he
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thought that the legislators have to use their money annually within at least a four-
year period, after which it would no longer be available.
Mr. Shelton asked if enough money had been allocated for a roundabout if they
chose, or for the radar speed sign. Responding, Mr. Hosfelt stated that money was
allocated for both. (City Clerk’s Office Note: Subsequent to the meeting, Mr. Hosfelt
advised the City Clerk’s Office that funds had been allocated for both the roundabout
and the traffic realignment; however, there was no mention of an allocation for
radar speed signs.)
Mr. Shelton stated that he agreed with the plan to stay with the radar speed sign;
however, he noted that he drives on Mifflin Road every day, which has a roundabout,
and had seen how it stops the flow of traffic, which he stated was not a bad idea. He
indicated that he liked Mr. Hutchison’s comments about looking at the radar speed
sign initially and moving on to the next thing if that does not work.
Mr. Keller asked how much of the $77,000 outlay the $25,000 would entail.
Responding, Mr. Somers explained that the design money is part of DelDOT’s in-
house budget.
Mr. Hosfelt explained that this project would not cost the City. Mr. Somers
reiterated that the funds would not come out of the City’s budget but would be CTF
money. He indicated that the City would have nothing to lose financially by doing
the project, it was a matter of whether the City has an interest in doing it.
Mr. Lewis stated that he was baffled because testimony had been heard by
Colonel Dix that they had already put up a radar sign in the community and it was
ineffective, so he did not understand why they would want to spend money to do the
same thing again. Responding, Mr. Hare stated that the sign had been put up on
Bicentennial Boulevard, rather than Independence Boulevard.
Mr. Hosfelt asked Mr. Somers if, in his opinion, traffic calming was needed on
Independence Boulevard. In response, Mr. Somers expressed his belief that there
was a concern and that the community certainly believed it. He noted that, at a
community meeting held a few days prior, even the people who did not necessarily
love the notion of a roundabout were collectively not opposed to doing something.
Mr. Somers stated that this had been just a straw vote at an individual meeting;
however, even the people who did not want to do anything felt there was a concern.
Mr. Hosfelt asked if Mr. Somers thought that it was a matter of both things working
together or if one (1) approach or the other should be tried. In response, Mr. Somers
advised that each measure, whether a stop sign, roundabout, or realigned intersection,
would have an area of influence that is generally 250 to 300 feet, depending on the
measure, noting that this area is not always the same everywhere. He explained that
a combination of measures breaks speeding more effectively than having one (1) or
two (2). Mr. Somers indicated that when most rational people are coming out of a
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roundabout, and know there is a stop sign 300 or 400 feet down the road, they will
not greatly increase their speed; however, he noted that people are not always
rational. He advised that if people know there is something else coming they will
stop trying to make up time, because they know they will not be able to do so.
Mr. Hosfelt thanked Mr. Somers, noting that he had been available anytime he was
asked to come out in the evenings or to attend different community meetings and had
answered questions. He expressed appreciation for Mr. Somers’ help with this
project. Mr. Somers invited those who needed more information to contact him
directly.
Dr. Dina Vendetti, Principal, St. John’s Lutheran School, 1156 Walker Road, stated
that she was representing the parents of students at Saint John's and noted that the
school uses Continental Park for several activities. She explained that their property
does not have any playing fields on it, so this is the closest field they can use.
Dr. Vendetti advised that they sometimes use the park for physical education classes,
but their biggest use of the park is a two-day field day event where several parents
participate. She informed members that she put this matter out to parents and was
unsure how concerned they would be, and the result was three (3) pages of a petition.
Dr. Vendetti explained that their concern was about parking, noting that she had
heard two (2) reports of what the area would look like after the project was complete.
She stated that if parking was eliminated on the Continental Park side of the street,
this would be a problem for them in using the park and for their parents to be able to
participate in the activities of their kids. Dr. Vendetti stated that she understood that
there was parking on the other side of the street; however, little kids were being
discussed. She indicated that parents were not thrilled about the idea of walking the
children across the street, and it was much more convenient and much easier for them
to pull up alongside the park and be part of the activity. Dr. Vendetti advised that
most of them do not live in that neighborhood so it is not really their fight, but their
concern was the use of the park and the availability of parking near the park. She
asked, whichever route the group decided to go, that members be aware of this and
save as many parking places as possible.
Ms. Carolyn Courtney, 24 Lamplighter Lane informed members that she was native
to Dover and chose and bought her house in May 1996 because it was in the center
of Dover. She indicated that she had two (2) children at the time and it was close to
commerce, her parents, and her family. Ms. Courtney stated that at night she has to
listen to cars racing up and down the roads, and that she can hear the cars on Walker
Road, and the train from her house. She advised that when you live in the City, these
are some of the things you deal with; however, it had been a blessing to have a nice,
wide street in the neighborhood that had been a place for her and her children to
walk, ride bicycles, or rollerblade. Ms. Courtney stated that the occasional yahoo
who drives down Independence Boulevard at full speed and runs stop signs would
do this on any street, and it was not up to the City to fix this with a traffic circle by
taking parking away from a park.
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Ms. Courtney noted that Dr. Vendetti had stated that her school uses the park during
the day. Ms. Courtney indicated that she had been there at night and seen teens use
it for practice and pick-up games for those who show up and play football. She
advised that taking the parking and narrowing that section of Independence
Boulevard in front of Continental Drive would be an injustice to everyone who uses
and appreciates it. Ms. Courtney stated that jumping to traffic circles would be way
too fast, noting that there is not that big of a problem on her road. She suggested
trying other calming measures and noted that when she sees the blinking signs on
Wyoming Avenue and State Street, she looks down, checks herself, and slows down.
Ms. Courtney explained that the striping on Independence Boulevard had happened
while she was on vacation and at first she thought it was a ridiculous waste of money;
however, in the month since, she thought that the striping had helped tremendously.
She expressed her belief that the speed limit signs would help on Independence
Boulevard, rather than jumping to the measures proposed by Colonel Dix and the
committee of three (3) or four (4) people supposedly representing the entire
neighborhood. Ms. Courtney advised that, in addition to Bicentennial, the
neighborhood included the Greens Association. She explained that these were the
townhouses on the west side of Independence Boulevard who were never included
in any of this, and she stated that it was an injustice to let four (4) or five (5) people
speak for everyone.
Noting that Ms. Courtney had stated that there were only three (3) or four (4) people
on this committee, Mr. Lewis asked if there was public notice put out that the
committee was being formed and if Ms. Courtney had been aware that this was going
on. Responding, Ms. Courtney stated that she knew nothing about it in the
beginning, had seen it one (1) time on the Council agenda, and it was then gone and
she heard it was a done deal. She indicated that she had received no mailing, flyer,
or notice.
Mr. Lewis stated his understanding that the homeowners’ association has a Facebook
page and asked if Ms. Courtney was privy to this or had been on this site. In
response, Ms. Courtney advised that, since attending one (1) of the meetings, she had
joined the Bicentennial Association; however, she noted that she is on the west side
of Independence Boulevard and belongs to the Greens Association. She stated that
these members were not included and did not know anything about it.
Mr. Jim Stewart, 742 Bicentennial Boulevard, stated that he lives at the corner of
Colony Drive and Bicentennial Boulevard, which is about the equivalent of being at
the corner of Dover Downs at the racetrack as they are whipping around and can hear
them at night. He advised that there are 327 households in the neighborhood,
including Green Blade Drive and Lamplighter Lane, and they had yet to have 10%
of the households represented at any of the meetings. Mr. Stewart stated that there
were 897,934 residents in the State of Delaware on the 2010 census, the estimate as
of July 1, 2016 was 952,065, and he projected that the State would probably be at
1,000,000 in 2020. Mr. Stewart indicated that the cost of just the traffic circle would
be $0.14 per resident, and just doing the narrowing would be $0.06 per resident.
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When going to the larger population, he indicated that the cost of the traffic circle
would drop down to $0.13, and the narrowing drops down to such an infinitesimal
percent of a penny that he could probably pay for everybody in the room and still
have change left over from the one (1) penny.
Mr. Stewart indicated that he was in the middle when he attended the meetings and
compared this to living between the Hatfields and the McCoys, with bricks flying in
both directions. He advised that there was a big group of those who were curious
about what was going on and why, and there had obviously been some
miscommunication. Mr. Stewart noted that some personalities had gotten involved,
and there had been a lot of confusion. He advised that he had raised a concern at the
last meeting about the fact that kids have to cross Independence Boulevard to get to
the school bus stop there and this had not been mentioned. Mr. Stewart commented
that one of his neighbors, in irate frustration, had questioned why anything would be
done since no one had been hit yet. He stated that the lady who lives on that corner
and has kids at her bus stop or in her yard will have to deal with anybody being
injured there, and she had commented that she was a retired public health nurse and
believed in preventative measures. Mr. Stewart expressed the need to pay attention
to the school kids.
Mr. Stewart advised that many options had been taken away, stating that a four-way
stop cannot be used because it does not meet DelDOT standards at Independence
Boulevard and Colony Drive, speed bumps or cushions cannot be used due to the Fire
Department and other groups, and there were a couple of other items he could not
remember. He indicated that he had to call an ambulance to his house once and did
not want speed bumps to slow down those coming to him when they are really
needed. He stated that it would cost $10,000, not $5,000, for a radar sign, and every
time that money is chipped away at, there would be less money and a need to hunt
for it somewhere else.
Mr. Stewart stated that members have a good share of responsibility for the City and
City taxpayers and if something happened to somebody on that street, particularly a
school kid, their parents would hire an attorney who would go hunting for deep
pockets. He noted that there was a thorough and deep public record that the City was
looking at this issue. Mr. Stewart questioned what the liability would become if the
City did not try to do something, stating that it would be far higher than anything that
had been talked about this evening.
Mr. Stewart indicated that the group met last on Monday, it was a vibrant meeting,
and each time they voted, the votes were roughly one-third, one-third, and one-third.
He advised that when they started raising the issue of the school kids, which was the
prime issue, only two (2) voted against it, one (1) person that he did not know and
another lady who lives well insulated from Independence Boulevard and does not see
the problem every day. Mr. Stewart explained that they came to a reasonable
consensus, which was a compromise, and there was some fussing and grumbling, but
he thought the group seemed to be coming to a conclusion that they would be willing
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to try the traffic narrowing. He stated that some of those in the middle were afraid
of what they had to lose, and he explained that school kids were what there was to
lose if members were not careful. Mr. Stewart advised that they could bring pictures
in of these kids to show to members and questioned, if it was too dangerous for little
kids to cross the street for a couple of festival events, then what was it for the kids
who have to do that every day during the school year. He indicated that they were
just as much at risk and just as valuable, and $0.14 or $0.13 was being discussed.
Mr. Stewart estimated that basically $0.20 of the first tax dollar spent on the day that
this money was allocated would go to this project. He commented that, with all
respect to Mr. Hare, the budget vultures were out there and had other projects, and
Mr. Stewart did not blame them. Mr. Stewart stated that he had spent 26 years in
State government and members could not assume that this money would be there a
year or two (2) from now because loose money lying around is low-hanging fruit in
State government and they come after it first.
Mr. Eric Frankl, 44 Freedom Drive, asked if there was a device that would not just
flash the driver’s speed but also take a picture of a license plate and the speed, so that
the City could get money from them. Responding, Mr. Hosfelt explained that,
several years ago when he was serving as Chief of Police, the City had tried to work
with the legislators for Dover to become a test for a program similar to red light or
speed cameras. He stated that it never gained any traction at that point from any of
the legislators, and that is why the City did not have this program.
Mrs. Rhonda Lewis, 27 Liberty Drive, advised that there had been different
proposals, including a circle coming from Route 8 going toward Walker Road, a
three-way stop at Continental Boulevard, narrowing, and another three-way stop at
Liberty Drive. She asked what would happen when people are ticked off when they
go through this long course, reach the block of houses where people are noticing the
speed problem, and speed toward Walker Road. Noting that Mr. Somers had advised
that these measures reduce speeds within a radius, Mrs. Lewis asked what the point
would be and what more there would be to do when drivers get through all of this,
are aggravated, and speed to Walker Road in front of the houses of Colonel Dix and
others. She noted that she sees people slowly running through the stop signs all the
time, stating that she did not know what more there was to do except for law
enforcement.
Representative Sean Lynn, 224 Columbia Avenue, stated that he was present to speak
in favor of the project which was brought to him by the City. He explained that the
City asked him to facilitate public meetings to investigate this issue and they spent
about a year investigating the issue. Mr. Lynn advised that they had the finest experts
at DelDOT in traffic calming review this project with a private engineer for more
than one (1) year and then brought that project to this Committee, who voted on it.
He explained that notice was properly given to residents of Bicentennial Village and
the other associated neighborhoods vis-a-vis the publication of Council agendas.
Mr. Lynn indicated that when this issue was brought before the Committee, everyone
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in the City of Dover had access to the agendas and, regardless of what people's
positions were, Council and this Committee voted on it.
Mr. Lynn stated that if you go to the doctor and the doctor tells you that you need
your appendix removed, you don't say to the doctor that you would rather have your
gall bladder removed. He indicated that it is not a buffet, and the experts had opined
and rendered an opinion that two (2) things were necessary, a realigned intersection
and a roundabout. Mr. Lynn advised that the experts at DelDOT had examined the
issue and told members what the solution was and that this was what they needed to
listen to. He informed members that he would not fund any alternative other than
what the DelDOT engineers had proposed and, unless Council funds what the
engineers had proposed, he would not give the CTF dollars to do it. Mr. Lynn stated
that if something else was wanted, the City would have to pay for it because the
engineers had spoken. He advised that if you return to the doctor and say that you
want your gall bladder out and they reiterate that you have appendicitis, you do not
get to choose. Mr. Lynn explained that they had asked the finest minds in the State
to examine this and they had rendered their opinions. He indicated that this issue
would only get worse as time progresses, noting that cost of the project would only
increase and, once the bypass is completed, there would be more traffic on this road.
Mr. Lynn stated that Captain David Spicer had stated what the traffic patterns were
on this road, and people who are against the project had asserted that the Dover
Police Department was lying about what the traffic patterns were. He indicated that
this was unconscionable. Mr. Lynn stated that, as the City grows, the situation will
become worse. For these reasons, he advised that Council needed to stick with its
original position and allow the project to go through unabated.
Mr. Hosfelt advised that when the original motion was made, through no one’s fault
and due to a wording issue, the roundabout was the only traffic calming measure that
was approved. He asked, if this issue goes back to Council and the other part of the
project is not approved, whether Mr. Lynn was saying the money would not be there
and if he wanted it all or nothing. In response, Mr. Lynn stated that the money had
already been expended since it was not clear to DelDOT that Council made an error
and only approved one (1) of the two (2) traffic calming measures. He advised that
the dollars had already been allocated, they had already funded the project, and work
was already underway. Mr. Lynn stated that he did not think it reasonable to only
fund half of the solution, so they were not going to pay for half of an appendectomy
but would pay for the entire appendectomy. Mr. Lynn indicated that if the experts
say that both are needed, they would fund both, but would not allow funding only
half through political expediency. He stated that the experts had all found that a
realigned intersection and a roundabout were needed to address the issue, and they
would fund both or nothing.
Mr. Lewis stated his understanding that the other part of the project would be the
realignment, and this was confirmed by Mr. Hosfelt.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017 PAGE 29
Mr. Anderson asked if anyone could answer the question about parking for
Continental Park. Responding, Mr. Hosfelt indicated that, at this time, the only
information available were the opinions of Mr. Jamison and Colonel Dix.
Mr. Anderson advised that a plan was being looked at for that park and that it would
be appreciated if they tried to maximize parking in that area. Otherwise, he stated
that he thought the choice was pretty clear and that the City needed to accept the
money and address the issue.
Mr. Hosfelt stated that there was no action to be taken by the Committee at this point.
Mr. Lewis moved to defer this matter until the next Council meeting, seconded by Anderson
and unanimously carried.
UTILITY COMMITTEE
The Utility Committee meeting was held with Chairman Cole presiding.
Street and Alley Survey Update
Mrs. Sharon Duca, Director of Public Works, reviewed a presentation entitled “Street
& Alley Survey,” dated February 13, 2017.
Referring to page 4, Pavement Distresses, Mr. Anderson questioned the meaning of
alligator cracking. Responding, Mrs. Duca explained that alligator cracking is
distressed pavement that looks like an alligator or crocodile’s skin.
In reference to page 15, Capital Funding Sources, Mayor Christiansen asked if
Community Transportation Fund (CTF) referred to designated municipal street aid
monies. Responding, Mrs. Duca explained that Municipal Street Aid actually goes
into the General Fund, and Public Works pays for projects through the General Fund.
Mr. Neil asked how long it would be before a roadway has problems and needs to be
repaired again after it has been brought down to the bottom, and recreated.
Responding, Mrs. Duca explained that usually there is not a need to go down to the
base for an entire road section, and base repairs are typically needed only for sporadic
sections. She compared this to a roof replacement, where there may be a couple of
pieces of plywood that need replacing, rather than an entire roof. Mrs. Duca
expressed the overall goal that the roads would remain in decent condition for at least
20 years, if the City was on schedule. She noted that the City has a storm sewer
system, a sanitary sewer system, and a water system that are all within the roadway
as well. Mrs. Duca advised that, in planning projects, staff tries to assess the water
system and video the storm and sanitary sewer system when they identify the roads
that need to be addressed. She explained that this is done to try to make sure that
they are working on a total project, so that there are not scenarios of failure with the
utilities that destroy the investment in the road.
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Mr. Anderson advised that he noticed in the report that several streets in the Fourth
District needed repair and that Bicentennial Boulevard had a lot of issues as well. He
asked what percentage of the City’s streets have had repaving or rehabilitation within
the last 20 years. Mr. Anderson noted that he was curious what percentage of streets
have had the 20-year cycle applied to them because there were streets that had grass
growing in them, pieces of the street falling apart, and some that had not been
touched in so long that staff was unable to find records. He stated that he did not
expect that information right now but in the near future, perhaps through an email
later in the week.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Duca stated that staff could work on providing
the percentage of the overall street system that actually gets addressed each year. She
stated that she was unsure that she could obtain decent data in terms of going back
20 years; however, she agreed that roads were not being addressed at this frequency.
Mrs. Duca advised that staff was addressing roads that do not have base to them in
certain areas, and the City had to do some of the re-laying. She explained that in
some cases it is found that there are two (2) inches of asphalt on top of dirt, so these
streets had obviously not been addressed since they were built.
Mr. Hutchison asked how much was spent on routine maintenance per year on
average over the last five (5) years. Responding, Mrs. Duca stated that there was
approximately $10,000 for paving and $10,000 for concrete work in the Streets
Division budget. Mr. Hutchison asked if this was the average amount that was spent
on improvements and maintenance in the City over the last five (5) years and
Mrs. Duca confirmed that it was. She indicated that she had made certain requests
to the City Manager for improvements in that area and there were certain expenses
that the City was not properly addressing. Mrs. Duca explained that there were a lot
of issues with the concrete system. For example, she stated that the City had started
to implement painting work on roadways to improve marking to control speeding,
which involved an epoxy that staff was not able to do in-house. She noted that this
work had not been budgeted in the past and would amount to an extra $5,000 per
year, for a program that had been budgeted for years at only around the $15,000
mark.
Mr. Hutchison asked if there was a master plan for the future. He stated that, when
looking at the numbers discussed, the amount of money that the City needed to apply
to address maintenance issues and the total number of miles in the City, a clear
amount of money must be set aside every year so that the staff and workforce can
address the issues. Mr. Hutchison stated that he thought it was obvious that the City
was running behind and needed a plan to catch up.
In response to Mr. Hutchison, Mrs. Duca indicated that the master plan for the future
was tied in with another project that Mr. Bob LaFountain, Civil Engineer I, was
working on. She noted that, in order for staff to make a proper recommendation to
Council as to what infrastructure investments are needed, there was a need to have
a firm handle on what the City’s assets and infrastructure are. Mrs. Duca advised that
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line painting is part of the same line item as signs, which all relate to the safety factor
of the roadway system. She indicated that, in conjunction with road rating,
Mr. LaFountain was working on an inventory of signs, including how many and what
kind of signs the City has and what the replacement issues are, so that more sound
budget requests could be made based on these components, just as much as they are
on pavement and other infrastructure components.
Mr. Hutchison asked, if Mrs. Duca could wave a magic wand, how much was needed
per year in order for the City to be caught up. Responding, Mrs. Duca indicated that,
based on her current knowledge, she could easily see the City increasing just the
concrete budget from $10,000 to $50,000 and still not have all the issues resolved.
Mr. Neil asked if it was planned to include updated street signs in the forthcoming
budget. For clarification, Mrs. Duca asked if Mr. Neil was referring to replacing
faded streets signs. Mr. Neil indicated that he was referring to faded signs, as well
as periodically replacing street signs with the modern street signs that had been
adopted. Responding, Mrs. Duca stated that there is a line item for street signs and
painting, which is done at a certain percentage when things are very poor. She noted
that when staff completes the actual inventory she could give a more definitive
number. Mrs. Duca explained that it would then be known, for example, that there
are 10,000 signs that should be replaced at 10% per year.
Mr. Hosfelt asked if striping is automatically included in the price when a paving or
resurfacing job is done. He noted, for example, that Independence Boulevard was not
re-striped when it was repaved initially, and this was brought up by residents. He
stated that when the stripes were put down, this had an impact for a while on speeds.
In response, Mrs. Duca stated that striping is extra and most City streets do not have
stripes on them. She indicated that much of the roads with striping are Delaware
Department of Transportation (DelDOT) roads.
Mr. Hosfelt recalled that the City Manager had indicated that Wyoming Avenue was
scheduled for repaving in the spring of 2017. He stated that when this is redone,
striping, including possibly a double yellow line down the center and shoulder
striping, would definitely help with the speed issues on the road. Mr. Hosfelt noted
that, looking at this in terms of what needs to be done to these streets in the future
would help the City in the long run from a safety point of view. In response,
Mrs. Duca stated that she agreed, and that when items are put out to bid, looking at
roadway classifications, such as whether roads are collectors or purely residential,
would help and would create a difference in what is needed.
Mr. Cole asked how long the line items Mrs. Duca mentioned had been set at
$10,000. Responding, Mrs. Duca advised that they had been at their current levels
for as long as she had been Director of Public Works, which was over five (5) years.
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, stated that one (1) of the difficulties with
trying to get through a street program is that there are other projects in the works that
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017 PAGE 32
have change orders. She explained that whenever there is a need for a change order,
the money historically comes out of the Street Program, noting that this seems to
happen every year.
Mayor Christiansen asked if monies allocated for individual line items throughout
the entire budget are put in a lockbox specifically for the projects for which they are
designated. Responding, Mrs. Mitchell explained that departmental operating
expenses all have line items that the department budgets for, and they mostly manage
to that. She noted that departments have discretion to move money around in their
budget to where it is needed. Mayor Christiansen asked to what percentage staff has
discretion to move money. In response, Mrs. Mitchell indicated that there is not
really a percentage and it just depends where they need the money, noting that they
are not usually big line items. She explained that projects over a certain percentage
have to come before Council for approval, such as the $60,000 Salt Barn project.
Mrs. Mitchell advised that just about every year money is reduced from the original
budgeted amount for some of the blanket projects, such as the Street Program.
Mayor Christiansen asked if, in Mrs. Mitchell’s opinion, this was a best practice or
if it should be changed. Responding, Mrs. Mitchell stated that the way the budgets
are done could be looked at a little closer; however, without getting into the details
that she had not been into in the past, she could not answer that question.
Mayor Christiansen asked if this would be a recommendation, if it was feasible and
Mrs. Mitchell answered yes.
Mr. Anderson recalled that street money had been about one-half the current amount
at one (1) point in the last five (5) years and then had increased. He asked if
Mrs. Mitchell had any idea about the changes in the General Fund budget for street
money over the last five (5) years. In response, Mrs. Mitchell expressed her belief
that the City Manager was trying to keep the amount at approximately $1M per year;
however, when the budget cannot be balanced, this is one (1) of the first places that
is usually reduced. She indicated that it had been close to $1M for the past two (2)
years, stating her belief that it was approximately $1M last year and approximately
$800,000 the year before. Mr. Anderson recalled that it had been much lower five
(5) years ago and had been slowly edging up. Mrs. Mitchell stated that she had
looked at the Street Program for the last two (2) years and it had been reduced by
approximately $220,000 for other projects.
Mrs. Duca informed members that it had been a challenge for everyone involved to
deal with unknown environmental issues and other factors that had come into
projects on the capital side. On the operating side, she noted that it had also been a
challenge for Council, the Controller/Treasurer, and the City Manager to deal with
some of the environmental requirements that the City had to pay for. Mrs. Duca
advised that the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Program had
prevented the City from being able to do preventative maintenance that was desired.
For example, she noted that the MS4 Program increased by over $100,000 and was
in the Streets Division budget, which is the same budget that pays for some of the
concrete work, and the environmental requirements had limited growth in other areas.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017 PAGE 33
Mayor Christiansen asked if Mrs. Duca was saying that too many governmental
regulations were getting in the way. Responding, Mrs. Duca stated that it is a
challenge to determine how to get the money to do these projects.
Mr. Lewis moved for acceptance of the Council Committee of the Whole Report, seconded by
Mr. Hosfelt and unanimously carried.
MONTHLY REPORTS - JANUARY 2017
By motion of Mr. Neil, seconded by Mr. Lewis, the following monthly reports were accepted
by consent agenda:
City Assessor's Report
City Manager's Report
City Planner's Report
Controller/Treasurer's Budget Report
Fire Chief's Report
Police Chief's Report
CANCELATION OF MARCH 14, 2017 COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
MEETING
Council President Slavin reminded members that Councilman Anderson, due to the forecast of
inclement weather, had proposed canceling the Council Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled
for March 14, 2017 and moving all of those agenda items to the March 28, 2017 Committee meeting,
along with scheduling a Special Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee
meeting on March 28, 2017, to consider those items that would be postponed.
Mr. Anderson moved to cancel the March 14, 2017 Council Committee of the Whole meeting
and defer all agenda items to the March 28, 2017 Council Committee of the Whole meeting.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Sudler and unanimously carried.
SETTING OF PROPERTY ASSESSMENT APPEALS
Staff recommended that the 2017 Property Assessment Appeals be scheduled for May 30, 2017
through June 2, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.; June 5, 2017 through June 9, 2017 from
9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. (if needed); and one (1) evening (if needed). Members were advised that
the hearing times are subject to change.
Mr. Anderson asked if these hearings were for anyone who had a dispute or just for people who had
received a recent notice. Responding, Mrs. Cheryl Bundek, Tax Assessor, explained that these are
the annual appeals and anybody is allowed to appeal their properties between April 1st and April 30th
of this year.
Mr. Hare moved for approval of the dates and times recommended by staff for the 2017
Property Assessment Appeals, seconded by Mr. Anderson and unanimously carried.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017 PAGE 34
REVIEW OF REQUESTS FOR INFORMATION - COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
SERVICES
Mr. Kirby Hudson, Assistant City Manager, advised members that the City of Dover requested
Letters of Interest from qualified commercial real estate professionals who are willing and able to
provide commercial real estate services on an "as needed" basis for the City of Dover. He indicated
that it was anticipated this venture should involve more than one (multiple) commercial real estate
professionals, since conflicts of interest could be a future concern; therefore, two (2) selected
commercial real estate companies would be placed on an approved list under their firm's name.
Mr. Hudson stated that the professionals placed on the "Commercial Real Estate Consultants List"
would be contacted at various times to provide services on a project-by-project basis for a period of
up to three (3) years. He noted that, as such, work assignments would be issued to specific
consultants based upon the City's needs, the actual qualifications of the commercial real estate
company, and the project price being proposed. Mr. Hudson stated that qualified consultants must
have experience with commercial marketing of real property, specifically improved land as well as
unimproved vacant land. He noted that the primary focus of these services will be the Old Dover
Public Library, Garrison Oak Technical Park, and other City properties as requested.
Mr. Hudson stated that it was the intent of the Commercial Real Estate Services solicitation to
identify and contract with two (2) professional companies to provide a wide spectrum of real estate
services for the City of Dover to facilitate potential City-wide land transactions or land sales
services. He indicated that the Commercial Real Estate Consultant(s) would be required to provide
professional marketing services and have the ability to determine the market value of improved land,
unimproved land, and vacant lots.
Mr. Hudson reviewed the background of two (2) commercial real estate firms, as follows:
1) Cushman & Wakefield of Delaware is a full service global commercial real
estate firm that can offer the City of Dover a full menu of services on an as
needed basis ranging from brokerage to appraisal. Cushman & Wakefield
have become experts in the field of commercial real estate by designing for
their clients, a custom marketing campaign tailored to the specific attributes
of the property. They will provide senior level commitment with
No-Conflicts of interest in ownership, and will leverage our resources for the
properties maximum exposure to local, regional and global developers and
users. Cushman & Wakefield, has been in operations for 100 years both
nationally & international, having more than 300 locations and 43,000
employees in more than 60 countries. Locally, Cushman & Wakefield of
Delaware have been a major player serving this region's real estate market for
over 40 years.
2) R & R Commercial Realty offers over 79 years of commercial real estate
experience in the Delaware market place and are located in Kent and Sussex
County. With a focus on commercial real estate services, R & R is one of the
most visible and respected commercial real estate companies within the City
of Dover's service area. R & R Commercial Realty services include Retail,
Office, Industrial, Property Management, Land Sales, Development, and
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017 PAGE 35
Self-Storage Facilities. The combination of R & R's in depth knowledge of
the local Delaware market, combined with their national and regional
contacts will provide an optimal combination to better serve the City of
Dover. R & R Commercial Realty has worked extensively with the State of
Delaware over the past several years including, but not limited to selling of
excess land.
Staff recommended authorizing the City Manager’s Office to select Cushman & Wakefield of
Delaware and R & R Commercial Realty to be placed on an approved list for Commercial Real
Estate Services for the City of Dover.
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mr. Hudson advised that the current commission for both commercial and
residential property sales is six percent (6%). He noted that in a lot of instances the commission
could be negotiated.
Mr. Anderson asked if the City would receive preferential rates from this group of firms and if there
was any particular reason that the two (2) were chosen and not a third on the list, such as Harrington
Realty, which has a lot of experience in the commercial market in the area. Responding, Mr. Hudson
stated that there was a total of eight (8) companies, with Cushman & Wakefield being the largest by
far out of the entire group, and he could have picked a number of other second firms. He advised
that it seemed to be important to keep a local company and R & R is strong in both retail and
commercial real estate and they were the strongest of the local companies.
Mr. Sudler expressed concern that 6% seemed quite high, especially for a residential percentage,
which he stated he was under the impression was approximately 3% to 4%. He asked if Mr. Hudson
would be willing to see if they could come down from 6%, feeling that this might be a good
commercial rate but was extremely high for residential. Mr. Slavin advised that the City would not
be using the realtors for any residential properties. Mr. Hudson stated that he had considered
negotiating the 6%; however, he could not move forward until City Council voted on the matter.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Mr. Hudson stated that he determined the “going rate” by making phone
calls to realtors that were not on the list, and three (3) separate companies quoted 6% as their
commission. He also noted that he used to have his real estate license and the rate of commission
had been 6% for a very long time.
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, stated that the City had not previously
used Cushman & Wakefield. He noted that R & R was part of the representative group that initiated
a potential sale of one of the lots at Garrison Oak Technical Park the previous year. Mr. Koenig
advised that the City had not sold commercial property of this nature, and the request for information
on services was really related to the Garrison Oak Technical Park and potentially the old public
library site. He stated that property sales in the past had been residential property that was listed on
the City’s website. Mr. Sudler asked what the lowest negotiated percentage was for the sale of the
residential property. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that they were not represented by a firm on
those sales.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017 PAGE 36
Mr. Hudson stated that the three-year arrangement with only two (2) firms may be incentive for them
to reduce the rate.
Mr. Sudler asked how many properties the City planned to sell within the next three (3) years.
Mr. Hudson advised that the remaining lots at the Garrison Oak Technical Park and the former
Dover Public Library were envisioned for sale. Mr. Koenig advised that he thought there were
11 remaining lots at Garrison.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mr. Hudson advised that his next choice would have been Newmark
Grubb Knight Frank.
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mr. Hudson advised that selecting two (2) real estate firms would not
preclude the possibility of adding other firms.
Mr. Anderson moved for approval of staff’s recommendation to authorize the City Manager’s
Office to select Cushman & Wakefield of Delaware and R & R Commercial Realty to be placed
on an approved list for Commercial Real Estate Services for the City of Dover, with the
understanding that additional firms may be added at a later date if so warranted. The motion
was seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried.
APPOINTMENT RECOMMENDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT SLAVIN - HUMAN
RELATIONS COMMISSION - SARA HERBERT - AT-LARGE REPRESENTATIVE (TO
FILL THE EXPIRED TERM OF LYNNE SADUSKY) - THREE-YEAR TERM TO EXPIRE
FEBRUARY 2020
Council President Slavin recommended the appointment of Sara Herbert to serve on the Human
Relations Commission, as the At-Large representative (to fill the expired term of Lynne Sadusky)
for a three-year term to expire February 2020.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the appointment of Sara Herbert, as
recommended by Council President Slavin. The motion was seconded by Mr. Lewis and
carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
CITY MANAGER'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, officially announced his retirement from City government. He
advised that, earlier in the evening, he provided written notice to the Council and his last day in the
office would be Friday, March 17, 2017, at which time he would relinquish his appointment as City
Manager.
Mr. Koenig stated that he has thoroughly enjoyed serving the City of Dover in various capacities
since June 18, 1990 and that he will cherish the friendships and experience developed over these
years for the rest of his life. He stated that he appreciates the hard work and dedication displayed
by the City's workforce, and he will continue to have high expectations of their future
accomplishments. Mr. Koenig thanked the Mayor, members of Council, and members of former
Councils for the opportunity to be part of the community and to serve at the pleasure of the Mayor
and Council.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017 PAGE 37
COUNCIL MEMBERS' ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Slavin thanked Mr. Koenig for his words, sincerity, and his service to the City.
Mr. Hutchison stated that he had the opportunity to work with Mr. Koenig for the total amount of
years that Mr. Koenig had been with the City. He stated that he watched Mr. Koenig grow from
Director of the Public Utility to City Manager and was always impressed with his knowledge of the
City and the infrastructure. Mr. Hutchison noted that he had never seen anyone that was better
prepared in answering questions off the cuff than Mr. Koenig, and he thanked him for his service,
dedication, commitment, and focus to the City. Mr. Hutchison stated that the City was a better place
today because of the years of service Mr. Koenig had given and he wished he and his family the very,
very, best.
Mr. Anderson thanked Mr. Koenig for his years of service in the community, noting that 27 years
is a great commitment, and stated that he believed the City was better off with Mr. Koenig’s
leadership than without it. He noted that there had been a number of successes that Mr. Koenig
should definitely be proud of, including some restructuring which had saved the taxpayers money,
and healthcare cost sharing, which helped make it sustainable so that employee benefits could be
protected. Mr. Anderson stated that Mr. Koenig could definitely look back at those
accomplishments and say he had done a great job for the taxpayers and for the employees in the city
of Dover. He wished Mr. Koenig the best in his next season and future endeavors.
Mr. Slavin stated that he hoped that Mr. Koenig would accept their invitation to receive formal
recognition at a Council meeting in the very near future.
Mr. Lewis thanked Mr. Koenig for his service and stated that it had been an honor and pleasure to
work with him. He noted that he echoed Councilmen Hutchison’s and Anderson's eloquent words
and wished Mr. Koenig and his family an abundance of blessings.
Mr. Neil stated that he had known Mr. Koenig as a Councilman only for a very short period of time;
however, he had known him for a much longer time as a citizen of the City. Mr. Neil advised that
the times that they had needed Mr. Koenig, as a citizen, he had come through like a champ. Mr. Neil
stated that Mr. Koenig leaves as a class act, and he applauded him for it over and over again.
Mr. Cole wished Mr. Koenig and his family well in whatever he chooses to do.
Mr. Hare echoed what had been said before.
Mr. Hosfelt thanked Mr. Koenig and stated that they appreciated everything he had done for the City.
He noted that, when Mr. Hosfelt served as Chief of Police, he had the chance to work with
Mr. Koenig as the City Manager, and he had enjoyed those times at Council.
Mr. Sudler expressed his thanks to Mr. Koenig.
Mr. Sudler moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Hare and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 13, 2017 PAGE 38
TRACI A. McDOWELL
CITY CLERK
All ordinances, resolutions, motions, and orders adopted by City Council during their Regular
Meeting of March 13, 2017, are hereby approved.
ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
MAYOR
/TM
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\Council-Minutes\2017\03-13-2017 Council Minutes.wpd
Página 98
YOUTH FOCUS GROUPS
LIBRARY, PARKS & RECREATION, DOVER POLICE DEPARTMENT
FEBRUARY 2017
Página 99
PURPOSE
• CRUCIAL THAT INPUT IS RECEIVED FROM YOUTH CITY-
SOLICIT INPUT ON IDEAS, SOLUTIONS, AND
ISSUES FROM THE YOUTH OF THE CITY: WIDE
DOVER PUBLIC LIBRARY • AND THAT ALL SECTIONS OF THE COMMUNITY ARE
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT REPRESENTED
DOVER POLICE DEPARTMENT • ENTITIES SELECTED FOR PARTICIPATION TO ENSURE
~ BALANCED COMMUNITY REPRESENTATION
TARGET AGE GROUP: 13-16
• ENTITIES REQUESTED TO SEND TWO PARTICIPANTS:
~
• 1 BOY & 1 GIRL FOR BALANCED GENDER
RESIDENTS OF THE CITY OF DOVER REPRESENTATION
Página 100
CITY STAFF TEAM
DOVER PUBLIC LIBRARY PARKS & RECREATION DOVER POLICE
DEPARTMENT
CATHERINE WIMBERLEY, HEAD OF YOUTH WAYNE VOSHELL, RECREATION
SERVICES COORDINATOR, CPSI MAJOR MARVIN MAILEY, DEPUTY CHIEF OF
POLICE
KATY GOFF, TEEN LIBRARIAN SHERWANDA RACHAL-SPEAKS,
RECREATION SPECIALIST LT. CHRISTOPHER HERMANCE, SPECIAL
MARGIE CYR, LIBRARY DIRECTOR ENFORCEMENT UNIT COMMANDER
ANN MARIE TOWNSHEND, PLANNING,
PARKS & RECREATION, DIRECTOR MCPL. KEITH HESTER, DOVER POLICE DEPT.,
PAL
MCPL JENNIFER LYNCH, COMMUNITY
POLICING UNIT
Página 101
INVITED ENTITIES
CHURCHES ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH
SCHOOLS
SOLID ROCK BAPTIST CHURCH
CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH
CAMPUS COMMUNITY SCHOOL
THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF
CHRIST CHURCH
DOVER CENTRAL MIDDLE SCHOOL
CHURCH OF THE HOLY CROSS
WESLEY UNITED METHODIST DOVER HIGH SCHOOL
GRACE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH CHURCH
HOLY CROSS SCHOOL
HOLY TRINITY UAME CHURCH WHATCOAT UME CHURCH
POSITIVE OUTCOMES CHARTER SCHOOL
MT. ZION AME CHURCH
ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN SCHOOL
PEOPLES’ CHURCH OF DOVER
OTHER
DELAWARE HOUSING AUTHORITY
ST. ANDREW’S LUTHERAN CHURCH
DOVER HOUSING AUTHORITY
Página 102
PARTICIPATION
CHURCHES OTHER
• CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH (1 BOY, 1 GIRL) • VALUE IN YOUTH VOICES [VIYV]
• CHURCH OF THE HOLY CROSS (1 BOY, 1 GIRL) (1 BOY, 6 GIRLS)
• MT. ZION AME (1 GIRL) • EMBODI (1 BOY)
• PEOPLES’ CHURCH OF DOVER (1 GIRL)
• THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF DOVER (1 15 PARTICIPANTS
BOY)
Página 103
REVIEW OF MISSIONS GROUND RULES
• LISTEN
• TALK HONESTLY
• KEEP AN OPEN MIND
• NO SIDEBAR CONVERSATIONS
• BE MINDFUL OF DIFFERENT MISSIONS
• THERE ARE NO DUMB IDEAS!
Página 104
RESULTS: LIBRARY
DO YOU COME TO THE LIBRARY?
73% YES
27% NO
53% GIRLS COME
20% BOYS COME
WHY DO YOU COME?
BOOKS EVENTS
RESEARCH SCHOOL WORK
MEET FRIENDS PRINT
Página 105
IF YOU DON’T COME…
WHAT PREVENTS YOU? WHAT COULD THE LIBRARY DO?
• STAFF TELLS HER TO BE QUIET • ROOMS WHERE YOU CAN TALK
• DON’T LIVE CLOSE ENOUGH • TRANSPORTATION
• OTHER ACTIVITIES • BOOK MAILING SYSTEM
• NO REASON TO COME
Página 106
WHAT SHOULD LIBRARY HAVE FOR YOU?
RESOURCES? PROGRAMS…
• SAT PREP** • MUSIC ROOM **
• EXPANDED NONFICTION COLLECTION • DRAWING SECTION **
• RESOURCES, ASSISTANCE FOR JOBS & • ART ROOM **
COLLEGE ** • SAT PREP **
• TUTORING • SPORTS ROOM **
Página 107
WHAT ELSE SHOULD LIBRARY HAVE FOR THE
COMMUNITY?
• FEED HOMELESS ** • RENT TEXT BOOKS
• READING PROGRAMS TO TEACH KIDS HOW • HELP FIND JOBS **
TO READ **
• GIVE AWAYS **
• WORK TO PAY OFF FINES **
• USE EMPTY ROOMS FOR COMMUNITY
PROGRAMS **
Página 108
STAFF THOUGHTS:
• MOST OF THE SUGGESTIONS FOR RESOURCES & PROGRAMS WE ALREADY HAVE OR OFFER. CLEARLY WE NEED TO IMPROVE GETTING
THE WORD OUT TO THE KIDS & THE COMMUNITY SO THEY ARE AWARE.
• SOME OF THE RESOURCES & PROGRAMS SUGGESTED WE CURRENTLY OFFER FOR ADULTS. IT IS VERY DOABLE TO TWEAK THESE &
OFFER THEM FOR THE TEENS.
• THE “READING PROGRAMS TO TEACH CHILDREN HOW TO READ” IS INTERESTING. WE OFFER STORYTIMES FOR PRESCHOOL CHILDREN
WHICH ARE AN INTRODUCTION TO LITERACY AND SOCIAL SKILLS & WE OFFER PAWS FOR PEOPLE WHICH ASSISTS CHILDREN
STRUGGLING TO LEARN TO READ. WE WILL NEED TO RESEARCH THIS!
• WE HAVE BEEN PLANNING FOR A WHILE TO INCREASE OUR EFFORTS ON EMPLOYMENT SERVICES FOR THE YOUTH. THERE IS
CURRENTLY A JOB FAIR FOR TEENS SCHEDULED & WORKSHOPS ON SCHOLARSHIPS & GRANTS ON THE CALENDAR.
• WHILE WE LIKE THE IDEA, RENTING TEXTBOOKS IS NOT PRACTICAL. THE COST TO PURCHASE THEM & THE FREQUENCY OF THE NEED TO
MODIFY BASED ON CURRICULUM IS NOT SOMETHING WE CAN AFFORD.
• FEEDING THE HOMELESS IS NOT IN OUR MISSION & WE HAVE LEARNED THAT FOOD IN OUR LIBRARY CAUSES SERIOUS PROBLEMS FOR
CUSTODIAN & MAINTENANCE.
• THERE ARE GREAT OPPORTUNITIES FOR COOPERATION HERE WITH THE OTHER DEPARTMENTS SO WE ARE NOT OFFERING
REDUNDANCY FOR PROGRAMMING. HOW FUN!
Página 109
RESULTS: DOVER POLICE DEPARTMENT
DO YOU FEEL SAFE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
53% YES
33% NO
DO YOU FEEL SAFE IN THE CITY?
47% YES
33% NO
DO YOU FEEL SAFE IN YOUR HOME?
53% YES
67% SOMETIMES
Página 110
WHAT CAN THE DOVER PD DO TO HELP YOU FEEL
SAFER?
• SELF-DEFENSE: “WHY AM I IN TROUBLE IF I HIT
• INTERACT MORE WITH KIDS IN SCHOOL &
SOMEONE BACK AFTER THEY HIT ME?”
ON THE STREET
• BE MORE VISIBLE & MORE ENGAGED WITH
COMMUNITY • SMILE MORE
• DON’T SHOOT RANDOM PEOPLE
• COME FASTER: NOT WHEN THE PROBLEM IS
OVER
Página 111
WHAT KIND OF PROGRAMS SHOULD THE DOVER PD
PROVIDE FOR YOU?
• SELF-DEFENSE CLASSES • COURSES FOR PERSONAL SAFETY & HOW TO DEAL
• BEYOND SCARED STRAIGHT WITH UNCOMFORTABLE MOMENTS/ISSUES
• GUN EXCHANGES
• FIRE ARMS SAFETY
• DANCE IN POLICE STATION
• RIDE-ALONGS (12+ YEARS OLD)
• BE LIKE OFFICERS KEITH, LENNY, PIAZZIA
• INFORMING MINORS ABOUT LAWS &
RIGHTS
Página 112
IS THERE SOMETHING ELSE THE DOVER PD PROVIDE
SHOULD DO FOR THE COMMUNITY?
• NO TICKETS FOR DUMB STUFF
• DON’T BE SO JUDGMENTAL
• SPEEDING (5 MPH OVER)
• GIVE A PASS FOR EMERGENCIES • BUILD SHELTERS FOR THE HOMELESS
• TICKETS FOR BEING A MINUTE LATE @ THE PARKING
METER • DON’T ALWAYS BRING THE DOGS - SCARY
• BE LESS THREATENING & INTIMIDATING ON PATROL • PARTNER WITH THE FIRE DEPT FOR THE DAY
• BUILD BETTER RELATIONSHIPS WITH FAMILIES & DO FIELD TRIPS
• BE CALM
Página 113
STAFF THOUGHTS:
• IT WAS SCARY TO HEAR THAT OVERALL THE GROUP DID NOT FEEL SAFE AT SCHOOL (5 TO 9).
• WHAT CAN THE DOVER PD DO TO HELP YOU FEEL SAFER?
• THE ANSWERS VARIED FROM "SELF-DEFENSE", "SMILE MORE" AND "DON'T SHOOT RANDOM PEOPLE." IT IS CLEAR THAT MANY PEOPLE (ADULTS & YOUTH) HAVE A
FEAR OF BEING SHOT RANDOMLY BY POLICE OR SIMILAR THOUGHT PROCESS. THIS SIMPLY ISN'T TRUE BUT IS PERPETUATED BY SOCIAL MEDIA & OTHER NEWS
OUTLETS. THAT BEING SAID....IT IS STILL A FEAR THAT MANY PEOPLE APPARENTLY HAVE. TO ADDRESS THIS PARTICULAR ISSUE SCHOOL RESOURCE
OFFICERS OR COMMUNITY POLICING OFFICERS CAN TALK TO KIDS IN SCHOOLS ABOUT THIS ISSUE OR PERCEIVED ISSUE...MAYBE THROUGH SCHOOL ASSEMBLIES
OR SCHOOL FAIRS. THE OTHER ANSWERS IN THIS CATEGORY WERE ON POINT & CAN EASILY BE IMPLEMENTED. OFFICERS CAN ALSO TALK ABOUT WHAT CAN BE
DONE WHEN YOU ARE INVOLVED IN A FIGHT (“WHY AM I IN TROUBLE IF I HIT BACK AFTER SOMEONE HITS ME?”).
• SELF DEFENSE WAS BROUGHT UP A COUPLE OF TIMES. WHERE IT ISN'T FEASIBLE FOR OFFICERS TO TEACH SELF DEFENSE....MAYBE THE SCHOOLS
COULD INVITE DIFFERENT 'SELF DEFENSE DISCIPLINES' INTO THE SCHOOL TO DO A BASIC CLASS & THEN PROVIDE PARENTS WITH INFO ON HOW
TO FURTHER THEIR CHILD’S INTEREST.
• FIREARMS SAFETY IS DOABLE AS WELL.
• THE DANCE IN THE POLICE STATION SOUNDS LIKE A GREAT IDEA!!!!!!! WE WOULDN'T HAVE THE ROOM AT THE POLICE DEPT BUT MAYBE WE
COULD HOLD THE DANCE AT DOVER HIGH AND HAVE OFFICERS AT THE DANCE TO DANCE & MINGLE WITH THE KIDS. FOOD & MUSIC &
DANCING ARE ALL GREAT WAYS TO CONNECT PEOPLE REGARDLESS ANYTHING ELSE. I AM TOTALLY ON BOARD WITH THIS SUGGESTION!!!!
• EXPLAINING TO THE YOUTH THE REASON BEHIND WRITING TICKETS, THE USE OF OFFICER DISCRETION, CUTTING VIOLATORS 'BREAKS,' & CITIZENS
COMPLAINTS ABOUT SPEEDING IN THEIR NEIGHBORHOODS & AREAS (WHY POLICE TARGET CERTAIN AREAS & HAVE ZERO TOLERANCE) MIGHT
HELP SHED SOME LIGHT FOR THEM.
Página 114
RESULTS: PARKS & RECREATION
DO YOU COME TO THE PITT CENTER?
33% YES
63% NO
WHAT DO YOU COME FOR?
BIRTHDAY PARTY OPEN GYM
HOCKEY GAMES PLAYING SOCCER
DO YOU COME TO SCHUTTE PARK?
53% YES
47% NO
WHAT DO YOU COME FOR?
PLAY BASEBALL EASTER EGG HUNTS
SOCCER GAMES WATCH SOFTBALL
Página 115
IF YOU DON’T COME , WHY NOT?
• NEVER HEARD OF IT & DON’T KNOW • DON’T DO OUTSIDE SPORTS
WHERE IT IS
• ONLY USE THEM IF I’M BORED
• NO TRANSPORTATION
• CAN’T BRING BROTHER: GRAFFITI
• FAMILY GOES TO LARGER (STATE) PARKS
Página 116
WHAT COULD PARKS & REC DO TO GET YOU THERE?
• ADVERTISE LOCATIONS, HOURS, FLIERS • GAME NIGHT (X-BOX, BOARD GAMES) **
• WHERE ARE YOU ADVERTISING? • SUMMER CAMP
• TRANSPORTATION: BUS • NO WAY TO GET THERE
• OFFER OPPORTUNITIES FOR COMPETITIVE • DO YOU NEED REGISTRATION & MEMBERSHIP?
SPORTS FOR OLDER KIDS • DO TOO MANY OTHER THINGS
• HAVE PITT CENTER OPEN 6:30-7:00 PM • CLEANER ENVIRONMENT
Página 117
WHAT RESOURCES DO YOU WISH PARKS & REC HAD?
• CAMPING
• FOOD
• BETTER WATER FOUNTAINS
• ZIP LINING
• SHOWERS/LOCKERS FOR GYM
• ROCK WALL
• RESTROOM FACILITIES
• TRAMPOLINE PARK
• CLEANER ENVIRONMENT
• INDOOR TRACK
• SMALLER PARKS NEED TO BE UPGRADED: FIX
• WEIGHT ROOM COURTS, FIELDS, SKATE PARKS
• ESCAPE ROOM • SECURITY
Página 118
WHAT PROGRAMS DO YOU WISH PARKS & REC
HAD?
• CPR CLASSES
• COOKING/BAKING CLASSES
• FIRST AID/NURSING CLASSES
• DANCE CLASS
• BOXING
• GAME NIGHTS: TOURNAMENTS FOR SPORTS, XBOX
• RESTROOM FACILITIES
• DRILL TEAM
• SEWING
• SELF DEFENSE **
• YOGA
• DRAWING CLASSES **
• CRAFT PROGRAMS **
• BABY CARE CLASSES
• BODY & WELLNESS CLASSES
Página 119
IS THERE SOMETHING ELSE PARKS & REC COULD DO
FOR THE COMMUNITY?
• FUNDRAISER
• FEED THE HOMELESS
• PROVIDE FREE PROGRAM
• PITT CENTER: CHANGE FOOT PATTERN TO
GET INTO GYM
Página 120
STAFF THOUGHTS:
• CAN BE CONSIDERED
• OFFER OPPORTUNITIES FOR COMPETITIVE SPORTS FOR OLDER KIDS: WE ARE CURRENTLY MAKING AN ATTEMPT TO ADD OLDER AGE GROUPS IN OUR
SPRING & FALL SOCCER LEAGUE PROGRAMS. IN PAST YEARS WE HAVE HAD TO CANCEL THE OLDER GROUPS IN BOTH BASKETBALL & SOCCER DUE TO
THE LACK OF REGISTRATIONS. BECAUSE OF THIS WE ARE GOING WITH A SMALL SIDED TEAM APPROACH (3 VS 3 INSTEAD OF THE 10 VS 10) TO SEE IF
WE CAN GET ENOUGH PARTICIPANTS TO FILL TEAM SLOTS. THIS IS ALSO A DIFFICULT AGE GROUP TO FIND VOLUNTEER COACHES.
• OTHER PROGRAMS: STAFF WILL BE LOOKING INTO ADDING ADDITIONAL ENRICHMENT CLASSES THAT WERE SUGGESTED SUCH AS DRAWING
CLASSES, SEWING CLASSES, CRAFT PROGRAMS, AND BABY CARE CLASSES. COOKING/BAKING CLASSES WOULD BE DIFFICULT AS WE DON’T HAVE
THE NEEDED FACILITIES.
• ADVERTISING: AS A DEPARTMENT WE NEED TO FIGURE OUT HOW TO DO A BETTER JOB OF GETTING PROGRAM INFORMATION OUT TO THE TEENS. IT
SEEMS WE NEED TO GO BEYOND OUR SCHOOL FLYERS, MAILINGS, EMAILS, FACEBOOK PAGE & WEBSITE TO ATTRACT AND NOTIFY THEM OF OUR
OFFERINGS.
• ALREADY BEING DONE
• MORE OPEN GYM HOURS: OPEN GYM HOURS ARE REDUCED TO 2:30-4:30PM DURING THE WINTER DUE TO THE HEAVY PROGRAM LOAD OF CLASSES
AND LEAGUES. DURING THE REMAINDER OF THE YEAR, THOSE HOURS ARE INCREASED AND INCLUDE EVENING TIME SLOTS.
• PROVIDE FREE PROGRAMS: WHILE WE CAN’T OFFER ALL PROGRAMS FOR FREE, WE DO OFFER THE FOLLOWING PROGRAMS AT NO CHARGE:
• OPEN GYM ~ EGG HUNTS ~ PITCH, HI & RUN ~ PUNT, PASS & KICK ~ CONCERTS ON THE GREEN ~ FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
• NOT POSSIBLE: FEED THE HOMELESS
• WHILE THIS IS NOT INCLUDED IN OUR MISSION STATEMENT, IN THE PAST WE HAVE PARTNERED WITH CODE PURPLE AS A HOST FOR A FOOD &
CLOTHING GIVE AWAY. THIS FALL WE ARE PARTNERING WITH THE DELAWARE VETERANS AFFAIRS & WILL HOST THE 2017 DELAWARE VETERAN’S
STAND DOWN. THIS EVENT WILL OFFER HOUSING ASSISTANCE, MEDICAL CARE, FOOD, CLOTHING & MORE FOR DELAWARE VETERANS AROUND THE
STATE.
Página 121
CLOSING THOUGHTS
ARE THERE OTHER CITY ISSUES YOU WOULD LIKE TO SPEAK ABOUT?
• THERE ARE LOTS OF THINGS TO DO IN THE
CITY FOR KIDS & ADULTS, BUT NOT SO
MUCH FOR TEENS
• THE TRASH INSIDE SILVER LAKE (LAKE ITSELF)
• THERE IS TRASH EVERYWHERE IN THE CITY
Página 122
STAFFS’ CLOSING THOUGHTS
• GOOD FEEDBACK WITH THE YOUTH. IT IS A GREAT WAY TO THINK
OUTSIDE THE BOX AND GET THE THOUGHTS, VIEWS AND FEELING OF THE
YOUTH IN OUR COMMUNITY. OFTEN TIMES WE HAVE A HARD TIME SEEING
THINGS FROM OTHERS POINT OF VIEWS AND THIS WAS A GOOD WAY
TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE YOUTH AND TRY TO WALK IN THE SHOES OF
OTHERS.
• I THOUGHT WE RECEIVED GOOD FEEDBACK FROM THE YOUTH. IT WAS
GREAT TO HEAR THEIR IDEAS AND MOST IMPORTANTLY THEIR VIEWS OF
THE CITY AND OUR PROGRAMS. THIS HAS ALWAYS BEEN A DIFFICULT AGE
GROUP FOR US TO PROGRAM BECAUSE OF THEIR PARTICIPATION IN
SCHOOL PROGRAMS AND CLUBS AND THEIR VARIED
INTERESTS. PERSONALLY I’D LIKE TO SEE THIS REPEATED EVERY 2-3 YEARS.
• WORKING WITH THE KIDS AND EACH OTHER ON THIS PROJECT WAS
REALLY GREAT. THE KIDS WERE ENGAGED AND INTERESTED. WE NEED TO
DO THIS AGAIN AND WORK WITH A DIFFERENT AGE GROUP NEXT TIME.
SOME OF THE SUGGESTIONS OFFER OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE
DEPARTMENTS TO PLAN AND WORK TOGETHER ON PROJECTS AND
SERVICES.
Página 123
CONSISTENT POINTS OF CONCERN & NEED FOR CITY
TO ADDRESS
• TRANSPORTATION
• BETTER CITY-WIDE COMMUNICATION & PR
• CARE & FEEDING OF THE HOMELESS
Página 124
Restoring Central Dover
March 27, 2017
1
Página 125
Services Offered:
Who is
NCALL? Pre-purchase Counseling
Foreclosure Prevention
Financial Coaching
Affordable Housing Development
Loan Fund
Neighborhood Revitalization
2597 families assisted in 2016!
2
Página 126
Wells Fargo Regional Foundation Planning
Grant
Data Collection & Resident Survey
Focus Groups
Open House Public Workshops
How did Refined Vision and Strategies
we get
here?
3
Página 127
• Capital School Credit Union • Polytech
District • Dover Housing • Sankofa Cultural
• CenDel Authority Arts Center
• Central Baptist • Dover Interfaith • SCORE
Church Mission for Housing • Solid Rock Baptist
• Central Delaware • Dover Presbyterian Church
Habitat for Church • United Way of DE
• Dover/ Kent Co. • Wesley College
Restoring Humanity
• City of Dover - MPO • Wesley Methodist
Central Council
• City of Dover -
• Downtown Dover
Partnership
Church
Dover Planning
• City of Dover –
• HUD
• Inter-
Steering Police
• Delaware
denominational
Ministerial Alliance
Committee Community Action • Milford Housing
Forum • Mt. Zion AME
• Delmarva Black • NCALL
Chamber of • Neighborhood
Commerce Representatives
• Dover Federal • Nemours
4
Página 128
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WHICH IS
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5
Página 129
Restoring
Central Multi-year, Multi-faceted, Holistic, Resident-led
Dover Represents our community’s vision for restoring
the vitality of Central Dover.
Plan Offers a range of achievable strategies to fully
realize Central Dover’s potential as a place to
live, work, and play.
6
Página 131
CENTRAL DOVER
A STRONG COMMUNITY
PREVENT CRIME & IMPROVE PUBLIC SAFID
ESTABLISH COLLABORATIVE/COMMUNITY POLICING
FORM A CITIZEN OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
Página 132
CENTRAL DOVER
POSITIVE DEVELOPMENT
9
Página 133
CENTRAL DOVER
AN INTEGRATED PUBLIC REALM AND INFRASTRUCTURE
IMPROVE TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE
IMPROVE SIDEWALKS AND PEDESTRIAN CONNECTIVITY
---
--~
Página 134
PLAN
IMPLEMENTATION
11
Página 135
Partner-driven Action
Steering
Committee
Safety
Transportation,
Green Space,
Infrastructure Community Economic
Engagement Development
Housing
Work Groups Backbone
Support
Community Partners Working on Strategies
Strategic Guidance &
Support
12
Página 136
Progress APPROVED
Since Plan
Adoption
Downtown Development District (DDD) Designation 13
Página 137
NCALL William Grimes, Neighborhood Revitalization
RCD Coordinator
Staff Chanda Jackson, Community Engagement
Specialist
1
4
Página 138
Community
Engagement
Work Group
Annual Community Fairs
Spring and Fall Clean-ups
Neighborhood Watch Groups
Outreach to New Residents
Community Engagement Forums–
15
Racial Inequity Workshop
Página 139
Community Workshops
Community Garden
Community Mural
Community Community Dinners
Building Play Streets
Activities Movie Night
16
Página 140
Community
Building
Activities
2 New Community Centers
Police Athletic League (PAL) re-
established
Youth programming at Centers
Financial and Housing Counseling
17
Página 141
Offer
Resident
Leadership
Training
Community Leadership Institutes
18
Página 142
Safety
Work Group
Over $600,000 allocated to Dover from
Neighborhood Building Blocks Fund (NBBF)
and the DE General Assembly for lighting
and policing
Grants pursued for Porch Lighting and
“Lights-on; Crime-off” Initiative 19
Página 143
Expand &
Strengthen
Neighborhood
Watch Groups
Downtown Neighborhood Watch-
N. Kirkwood, N. Queen, and N. New Streets
Lincoln Park Neighborhood Watch- Lincoln
Park and Simon Circle 20
Página 144
Housing
Work Group
Ordinance amended to allow for
townhouses as conditional use
New home construction underway
Coordination of home repair programs
Landlord Workshop
21
Página 145
Housing
Efforts:
Mapping,
New
Houses,
& Home
Repairs
22
Página 146
Economic
Development
Work Group
Economic Inclusion Report Completed
Evaluating Vacant Property Ordinance
Working with DDP and D3
23
Página 147
Transportation,
Open Space, &
Infrastructure
Work Group
Inquiry to DART to add Central Dover to
downtown bus route
Installation of new bike rack at Dover Library
Capital Gateway Plan underway
Bradford Street Transportation Enhancements 24
Página 148
RCD Mini-Grants:
Community Dinners
Icehouse Entrepreneur Program
Promotional videos
Funded 1st Fridays (July – Sept)
S. New Street Lighting Replacement
Additional $1 million Strong Neighborhood Housing
Fund to build 20 houses in collaboration
Progress with Habitat for Humanity
Since Plan 40K Potter’s Trust Grant – Collaborative
effort with IMA to provide mortgage,
Adoption rent, and utility assistance
NBBF Grant submitted in collaboration
with City of Dover and Dover PD
Seeking ways to incorporate the Arts in
our implementations plan
25
Página 149
Website,
E-News,
&
Social
Media
26
Página 150
DOVER RESIDENTS ARE KEY TO MOVING FORWARD
27
Página 151
CONTACT US
363 SAULSBURY ROAD, DOVER, DE 19904
302-678-9400
WWW.NCALL.ORG
WGRIMES@ NCALL.ORG; CJACKSON@NCALL.ORG
FACEBOOK.COM/CENTRALDOVER
28
Página 152
OUR VISION FOR VITALITY
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Página 153
RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER LEADERSHIP STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS
The Restoring Central Dover Plan was made possible by generous funding Debbie Armstrong, United Way
from the Wells Fargo Regional Foundation, SPEER Trust, the City of Dover, Paul Bernat, Dover Police Chief
NeighborWorks America, Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh, and Dianne Bogle, Capital School District
NCALL Research, Inc. The plan process was led by NCALL Research, Justina Brewington, Dover Housing Authority
Inc. and a commited Steering Committee comprised of local stakeholders, Shelly Cecchett, Greater Kent Committee
elected officials, residents, and service providers. David Clendaniel, Dover Federal Credit Union
Susan Cooper, Dover Presbyterian Church
PLANNING TEAM Elizabeth Daniels, Neighborhood Representative
Wallace Dixon, Dover City Council
INTERFACE STUDIO LLC V LAMAR WILSON ASSOCIATES Tenish Gregory, CenDel Foundation
Scott Page, Principal Lamar Wilson, Principal Pastor Will Grimes, Solid Rock Baptist Church
Leah Murphy, Principal Tracey Harvey, City of Dover, Planning and CDBG
Rapheal Randall, Urban Designer Clay Hammond, Delmarva Black Chamber of Commerce
Kent Hurst, Wesley College
ABOUT NCALL Chanda Jackson, Neighborhood Representative
Jeanine Kleimo, Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing
The National Council on Agricultural Life and Labor Research Fund, Inc.
Herb Konowitz, Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing
(NCALL), based in Dover, Delaware, was incorporated in 1955 and began
Bishop Marion Lott, House of Pride
providing housing development services in 1976; added homeownership
Mike Metzing, Bayhealth
education and counseling in 1989; became a U.S. Treasury-certified
Joe Myer, NCALL
Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) in 2004 in order to
Bill Neaton, City of Dover, Economic Development
provide housing and community facility lending; launched financial literacy
Ed Perez, Downtown Dover Partnership
training in 2005; added default & foreclosure prevention counseling at
Maggie Pleasant, NCALL
the end of 2007; and was selected as the Kent County partner for the
Delcina Ramsey, Public Ally
$tand by ME® financial coaching initiative in 2012 and became lead
Mary Reed, Dover Presbyterian Church
organization for the Restoring Central Dover planning initiative in 2013.
Ida Rios, Neighborhood Representative
NCALL has become a leader in affordable housing development and
Michael Rogers, Interdenominational Ministerial Association
services in Delaware, creating affordable housing alternatives and helping
Reuben Salters, Inner City Cultural League
families statewide to access and maintain homeownership.
Ami Sebastian-Hauer, Dover Housing Authority
Pauline Smith, Neighborhood Representative
Karen Speakman, NCALL
Roy Sudler, Neighborhood Representative
Jocelyn Tice, Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity
Ann Marie Townshend, City of Dover, Planning and CDBG
www.ncall.org Amy Yarnell, Wesley United Methodist Church
(302) 678-9400
363 Saulsbury Road
Dover, DE 19904
2 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Página 154
Restoring Central Dover, “Our Vision for Vitality,”is an initiative
that grew out of the CenDel Foundation’s Safety Task Force and broadened into a community wide effort to
work at revitalization planning for central Dover. The planning process has been amazing and very engaging.
Thank you to Steering Committee members who invested so much time, energy, and enthusiasm throughout
the past year and worked through the thoughtful and exciting recommendations herein. Thank you to Interface
Studio for your expertise and guidance in crafting this creative blueprint. Thank you to residents who assisted
with the community survey, attended the Community Leadership Institute, helped organize block parties, and
put their heart into this effort.
This plan looks at affordable housing, business development, strong community, and infrastructure needs for
central Dover to become a vibrant business corridor and community as our State Capital.
The plan is meant to be a living document that guides our implementation steps both now and years to come.
No doubt there will be changes and modifications as efforts evolve, as new partnerships and collaboration
takes place, and as new funding becomes available. The recommendations within this plan will be evaluated
regularly with the goal of making them even more applicable and achievable.
With the completion of this plan, Restoring Central Dover will transition into the implementation phase. Central
Dover has a wealth of assets and some very real needs. We believe this plan will enable central Dover to
become even a more wonderful place to live, work and play.
As you view this plan and its vision, please think about what role you might play to make it a reality, whether
it be your leadership, support, or funding.
Sincerely,
Joe L. Myer, Chair
Restoring Central Dover
OUR VISION FOR VITALITY
RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER IN CONTEXT 3
Página 155
INTRODUCTION
PURPOSE OF THE PLAN
In 2013, a “Central Dover Neighborhood Planning” collaboration was
convened between NCALL, the CenDel Foundation/Greater Kent
Committee, Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing, and the City of Dover
(including the Downtown Dover Partnership and Dover Police Department)
to address the high-priority needs of low-income Central Dover residents
with the goal of achieving long-term benefits by way of affordable housing,
neighborhood safety and desirability, opportunities for economic growth,
and essential services for children and families. With generous support
from the Wells Fargo Regional Foundation and other sources, NCALL and
its partners initiated the Restoring Central Dover planning process and
recruited a steering committee comprised of local stakeholders, elected
officials, residents, and service providers to lead a community-driven vision
with the goal of ultimately establishing a solid community infrastructure
that will result in long-term and successful revitalization and meaningful
opportunities for residents.
Over the course of the year-long process, concerned residents, community
groups, neighborhood-based institutions, city representatives, and local
businesses were engaged in generating ideas for a better community and
the ways in which we can all help to achieve that vision together. As this
vision began to take shape, plan leadership recognized the need for this
initiative to focus on where efforts should be placed within the next five
years to establish a foundation for longer-term positive change. With an
eye towards truly Restoring Central Dover, this plan is centered on short-
term incremental strategies founded on the idea that revitalization is about 01 Restoring Central Dover planning area
reinvesting in both people and in place. This plan is intended to:
> Empower community members as agents of change in Central Dover > Bring resources to support the needs of disadvantaged residents and
> Strengthen neighborhood streets and expand affordable housing families
options > Revitalize Loockerman Street as a vibrant commercial corridor and
> Raise the profile of Central Dover to attract new residents, businesses, asset to adjacent neighborhoods
and investment > Coordinate the efforts of the city, nonprofit organizations, churches
> Expand economic opportunity and ensure that the revitalization of and residents to make the most of resources
Central Dover benefits all residents > Assure informed funding decisions and secure resources for
neighborhood investments
4 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Página 156
This document represents extensive hours of work volunteered by the in the target area have been brought up to housing code through the
many residents, stakeholders, and local leaders dedicated to envisioning homeowner rehabilitation program.
a path towards Restoring Central Dover. The planning process itself
was a critical step towards plan implementation, as the members of the The City of Dover’s Comprehensive Plan and annual CDBG Action
plan’s leadership recognize that they will be agents of change in Central Plan have led to an increased emphasis on building codes and
Dover and will continue to collaborate in realizing the goals and objectives their enforcement, resulting in the demolition of several dilapidated
outlined in this plan. properties, the construction of some new buildings (including affordable
apartments) in the business district, and the upgrading or renovation
PLANNING CONTEXT of other properties. To a great extent, the success of Restoring Central
Dover will rely upon close coordination with the City’s own ongoing
A number of planning initiatives have been completed or are currently planning initiatives and allocation of resources.
underway in and around Central Dover that have helped and will continue
to help guide the City and local partners in bringing about positive change. > ECONOMIC INCLUSION STUDY OF DOVER
This plan seeks to reinforce and incorporate the results of these prior Commissioned by the DelMarVa Black Chamber of Commerce
planning efforts while providing an overarching vision for Central Dover (DBCC), the City-funded Economic Inclusion Study of Dover is
coordinated with ongoing planning processes. Each of the following currently underway and is is modeled off of a similar analysis of
plans provided valuable insight and direction to the development of these Pittsburgh, PA concluding that, among other contributing factors,
recommendations. racial equity and inclusion are cornerstones of sustained development
and successful, healthy economies for that particular region. The
COORDINATION WITH ONGOING INITIATIVES: Restoring Central Dover plan and the prospects of it leveraging public
It is important to realize that Restoring Central Dover is one among and private resources present a unique opportunity to advance both
multiple initiatives currently underway that will bear great relevance to agendas by linking economic inclusion as a policy and practice with
implementation efforts emerging from this process. Part of the mandate community revitalization as a goal.
for this plan is to ensure active coordination with these other activities:
FOUNDATIONAL DOCUMENTS
> CITY OF DOVER BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN PLANS As demonstrated above, there is a lot of ongoing planning work intended
During the Restoring Central Dover planning process, the City of Dover, to bring local partners together and improve Central Dover. To be truly
the Dover/Kent County Metropolitan Planning Organization, and the effective, this work must also build upon the foundation set by the plans
Delaware Department of Transportation released drafts of updates and strategies that have come before. These include:
to the City’s bicycle and pedestrian plans. The community expressed
great interest in addressing a range of mobility issues as a part of > DOVER TRANSIT CENTER NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN AND
Restoring Central Dover, and the feedback and recommendations put DESIGN BOOK [JAN 2011]
forth in this document are intended to serve to further inform the City’s The Dover Transit Center Neighborhood Plan and Design Book
efforts to plan for improving alternative transportation in Central Dover. provided the City of Dover with a design and planning strategy to guide
development around the new Dover Transit Center and to improve
> CITY OF DOVER CDBG ACTION PLAN transportation infrastructure in Central Dover. The planning area
Since the City of Dover became an entitlement community to receive included a portion of the Restoring Central Dover boundary south of
CDBG funding in 1995 to present, there has always been an emphasis Loockerman to South Street. The plan was focused primarily on long-
in the city’s annual plan to address the needs in the Downtown Target term physical development scenarios and is considered an important
Area. The top priorities that were determined by the stakeholders companion piece to Restoring Central Dover, which is centered on
in the community were: housing needs, infrastructure needs, public what needs to happen in the short term in order to position Central
service needs, homeless needs and public facility needs. As a result of Dover for longer-term investment and positive change.
the needs determined in the city by the stakeholders, several homes
RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER IN CONTEXT 5
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The Dover Community Partnership PLANNING PROCESS
The planning process was designed to be both data-driven and people-
driven. This required us to:
LISTEN through a variety of Community Outreach & Engagement
activities—a key component of the plan and the basis for the
THE DOVER COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP recommendations.
REVITALIZATION PLAN
JANUARY, 2009
COLLECT & ANALYZE DATA to provide a comprehensive
picture of the challenges Central Dover faces today.
> DOVER COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP REVITALIZATION COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT
PLAN [JAN 2009] Restoring Central Dover: Our Vision for Vitality was conceived as a
The Dover Housing Authority formed the Dover Community true, community-driven plan that will serve as a unified voice for local
Partnership in 2003 to address concentrated poverty and housing residents, business owners, institutions, youth, community leaders, and
issues. The general consensus was that the homeownership rate political representatives, among others. As such, the planning process was
and economic opportunities in the area were poor and an initiative designed to not only engage the public, but also help to build a sense of
was needed to address the issues. The resulting Dover Community community among the area’s diverse constituency.
Partnership Revitalization Plan [covering a 20-block area now within
the Restoring Central Dover boundary and comprising about 12% of To create a plan grounded in the realities of Central Dover requires an
this effort’s planning area] set forth a set of strategies geared toward: open and ongoing public dialog. The process informed and brainstormed
with residents and stakeholders using a range of outreach tools including:
- Creating a safe environment for current and future residents to
live, work, and play. Monthly Steering Committee meetings conducted throughout the
- Providing a range of housing opportunities that address the process brought together stakeholders to guide all aspects of the project.
needs of the homeless to homeowners. Special care will be The Steering Committee is comprised of local residents, community
taken to ensure that housing initiatives do not displace current leaders, elected officials, and representatives from local institutions.
residents but instead enhance their living conditions.
- Supporting the efforts of the Downtown Dover Partnership to Ten confidential one-on-one interviews with a sample of residents,
promote the public welfare of the residents of the City of Dover community leaders, business owners, service providers, and City officials.
via the development of the economic, cultural and historic
resources of the downtown area. Three focus groups to discuss unique concerns and perspectives
regarding the future of Central Dover. The focus groups brought together
These objectives were considered a jumping off point for Restoring Central leaders of the faith-based community, social service providers, and
Dover, the outcomes of which harmonize well with this previous effort. The representatives of the business community to discuss their perspectives
overlap in leadership between the Dover Community Partnership and the and ideas for Central Dover.
Restoring Central Dover steering committee, as well as the synergies
between the two efforts, should capitalize on opportunities to collaborate An interactive open house to publicly launch the plan and invite
in bringing needed resources to the Central Dover community. community members in to provide their opinions on the community. At the
beginning of May 2014, the open house utilized the 1st floor community
room of Bayard Plaza on Loockerman Street and was open seven times
6 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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over the course of nine days. The planning team created temporary window
installations on both sides of Loockerman to draw attention to the open
house and filled the interior with information, a photo suggestion booth
and other exercises designed to get residents thinking creatively. At least
177 residents participated in this event. The input provided by residents at
the open house led to many of the strategies in this plan.
A number of collaborative maps were used to help residents pinpoint
specifically where they had concerns about their community. A large-scale
collaborative map was used in the open house that asked residents to
identify mode-specific transportation issues. Residents were also engaged
in public realm mapping to identify hotspots for crime, illegal dumping, poor
lighting and flooding.
A “do-it-yourself” budget exercise at the open house allowed
participants to allocate play money in multiple denominations to piggy
banks representing general budget categories, such as “transportation
networks” and “housing and neighborhoods.”
Community members wrote their big ideas for Central Dover on a dry erase
board, which they posed next to for a snapshot in the “photo suggestion
booth” at the open house.
A resident perception survey to collect the perceptions and concerns
of residents across all of the Central Dover neighborhoods. Community
volunteers that administered the survey received 224 completed surveys
representing 18% of households in Central Dover.
Following the open house, a final public meeting was held in July
2014 to allow the community to review preliminary recommendations and
participate in an exercise designed to set priorities among the range of
ideas presented to determine where limited funds and resources should
be directed.
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PUTTING THE PLAN TOGETHER
To understand the underlying trends and socio-economic characteristics of
Central Dover, the planning team utilized The Reinvestment Fund’s [TRF]
Policy Map data sets. This data on population, race, income, housing and
other aspects of the community was augmented where necessary with
other US Census information, parcel data provided by the City of Dover,
Dover Police Department crime data, and other datasets.
In addition to the base data described above, the planning team conducted
a parcel by parcel survey of every property in the Central Dover study
area. The survey collected detailed information on each property, including
land use and condition but also recorded physical observations regarding
housing, businesses, parks, roads, maintenance, safety , and so on.
The planning process consisted of three phases:
1. RESEARCH & EXISTING CONDITIONS
During the first phase of work, which was defined by research and data
collection, the planning team explored and documented the physical and
economic conditions in Central Dover through:
> A GIS parcel by parcel mapping of land use, building condition and
vacancy data to create an up-to-date land use map
> An in-depth examination of the physical environment to assess
the existing commercial and retail mix, the quality of the natural
environment, local traffic and circulation patterns, the transit system,
and pedestrian / bicycling amenities
> Research using Policy Map and the Census to evaluate demographic
and socioeconomic changes within the community over time
> A review of existing planning documents whose boundaries overlap
with those of the study area
> The launch of a public outreach initiative beginning with the door-to-
door resident survey and followed by the public open house designed
to get a handle on the qualitative aspects of the neighborhood
> The facilitated discussion of specific concerns raised during the
process to date over a series of three focus groups
> A series of one-on-one interviews to review our work and discuss
possible solutions with key stakeholders and funders
> Processing the information collected during the analysis to identify
opportunities and challenges for the future of Central Dover
> Review of this information by the Steering Committee 02 Land use survey map and breakdown
Existing land use was one of the data points collected during the parcel-by-parcel physical
survey conducted during Phase I of Restoring Central Dover.
SOURCE: Field survey, Nov 2013 - Jan 2014
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2. PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDATIONS 3. FINAL MASTER PLAN
During the second phase of the process, the planning team worked closely During the third phase of work, the planning team refined the
with community partners to develop well-tailored recommendations in recommendations, incorporating the input collected from members of
response to the research findings and community input collected in Phase the Steering Committee and the general public at the end of Phase II.
I. Phase II resulted in: The analysis and revised implementation recommendations are packaged
together in this report to guide the next steps in coming weeks, months,
> A list of goals and objectives based upon public input and years.
> A series of preliminary recommendations for achieving such goals and
balancing observed trends and projections with desired outcomes The Central Dover area, its network of involved neighborhood institutions
> Presenting the preliminary recommendations to the community for and leaders, and all interested community members will assume
feedback and critique at a public meeting, along with a prioritizing responsibility for the revitalization plan, its acceptance by the City of Dover,
exercise and its implementation.
RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER IN CONTEXT 9
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.. . . .
•
AREAS OF
INTEREST
0 FLEMING GOODWIN UNITED STATES
RESERVES CENTER
8 BOOKER TWASHINGTON
ELEMENTARY AND WILLIAM
HENRY MIDDLE SCHOOL
0 WESLEY COLLEGE
0 SIMON CIRCLE PUBLIC HOUSING
8 LOOCKERMAN CORRIDOR &
,..
~ THE GREEN
-
'l-. ~
.. 0 GOVERNMENTAL CORRIDOR
-
Iti . 8 KRAFT FOODS
8 DOVER POLICE DEPARTMENT
&JUSTICE OFTHE PEACE
0 BAYHEALTH MEDICAL CENTER
& MEDICAL OFFICES
SOUliCE: FIEI.C SURVEY (NOVEMBER 2013- JANUARY 2014)
03 Central Dover Landmarks
..
10 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
SOURCE: Field survey, Nov 2013 - Jan 2014
Página 162
A SNAPSHOT OF CENTRAL DOVER
WELCOME TO CENTRAL DOVER and below average building conditions [E]. This area has been targeted
by the city in recent years to bring housing up to code and demolish
Dover, the capital city of the first state, is centered on the area referred
hazardous structures.
to as Central Dover, comprised of a number of distinct areas clustered
around the historic Loockerman Street commercial corridor. Let’s start off
The Norfolk Southern rail line divides the Dover Housing Authority’s
by getting our bearings in Central Dover:
Simon Circle and Lincoln Park neighborhoods and surrounding primarily
residential streets to the west.
Loockerman, once a thriving traditional main street [A], is anchored
by Dover City Hall and the Dover Library on the east end and a recent
The Green, a historic park located in the old downtown Dover area, was
commercial development at the west end, where Loockerman connects to
during colonial times a center of civic life and activity, and is now used for
Route 8 (an important gateway to Central Dover) via Forrest Street. The
large scale events. 79 historic buildings contribute to the Dover Green
corridor features primarily two and three-story historic buildings [B], some
Historic District—many of these buildings are now being used for law,
with active ground floor commercial uses, but some with vacant storefronts.
finance, and other professional offices [F].
The Wesley College campus [C], which serves about 2,500 students, is
The Southern portion of the study area is defined by a number of large
located just north of the Loockerman corridor. The campus is surrounded
footprint public, government and medical uses such as Bayhealth [G], as
by residential blocks featuring larger houses (some which have been
well as senior housing and commercial offices. The block structure results
converted to office uses) with predominantly well maintained historic
in a much looser urban fabric, in contrast to the more pedestrian-friendly
architecture [D].
scale found north of Loockerman. This area is a significant center of
employment in Dover, but feels physically disconnected from Loockerman
Just north of Loockerman between Governors Avenue and West Street lay
and adjacent neighborhoods.
a few blocks of distressed residential streets with concentrated vacancy
[A] [B] [C] [D] [E] [F] [G]
RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER IN CONTEXT 11
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EXISTING CONDITIONS TAKE-AWAYS
The analysis of existing conditions conducted in Phase I of Restoring vitality relies on short-term stabilization of deteriorated blocks, strategies
Central Dover led to some important conclusions that formed the basis, to retain existing residents as well as attract new neighbors
along with community input, for the drafting of recommendations. The should be a priority of Restoring Central Dover.
broad stroke highlights of the opportunities and challenges among these
follow. More detail can be found in the full plan. VACANCY
There has been comparatively modest population growth and vacancy
POPULATION DYNAMICS IN CONTEXT remains a challenge in Central Dover. As an overall percentage of
Central Dover is predominantly African American (59%), with the number parcel area, vacant land and buildings comprise 13% of Central Dover.
of African American residents increasing by 6% between 2000 and 2010. The aggregated area of vacant land in Central Dover is equal to 25
The 12% increase in population overall in Central Dover [Fig 04] is on par football fields. The effects of vacancy impact perception and can hinder
with the City of Dover’s 14% increase; but the population of Kent County reinvestment, especially when concentrated on individual blocks [Fig 05].
increased 28% over the same period, far outpacing local growth. The At the same time, these clusters of vacancy are also opportunities for
rate of population growth in the Central Dover area continues to decline infill development.
relative to the rates in other areas in the City and County. As long-term
04 Change in population and racial breakdown, 2000-2010 05 Map of vacant land and buildings
SOURCE: 2000 & 2010 US Census SOURCE: Field survey, Nov 2013 - Jan 2014
12 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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BUILDING CONDITIONS
The parcel survey included rating buildings on a scale according to their
apparent condition as observed from the street, with an “A” rating given to
buildings in “Excellent” condition, through an “F” rating given to buildings
in “Very Poor” condition [Fig 07]. Some patterns emerge in concentrations
of buildings in below average condition relative to the study area overall
[Fig 06], which coincide with concentrations of vacant buildings and land.
These distressed residential streets speak to the need not only for infill
development, but targeted home repair assistance to preserve
existing housing stock where possible.
COMMERCIAL SERVICES
Though the land use survey counted a number of commerical uses in the
study area, most of them are concentrated in the southern end and are
offices and other commercial typologies that don’t serve the daily needs of
Central Dover’s residents. Local residents typically travel outside of Central
Dover to more suburban/auto-oriented commercial developments situated
along Route 13 or Route 8. For existing residents without a car, this is a
significant distance to travel to access services and goods or retail jobs.
The Loockerman commercial corridor is an opportunity to bring
commercial services within walking distance of Central Dover
residential neighborhoods. However, the challenges to overcome in
revitalizing the corridor include perception of safety, high vacancy
06 Surveyed building conditions
It should be noted that because the building condition survey typically relies on judgments based only on
and tenant turnover rates, and a lack of readily leasable spaces due to what is visible from the street, it is fair to say that the survey results overestimate the condition of buildings,
deferred maintenance and lack of property owner resources to rehabilitate as defects on the sides and rears of buildings are often not visible.
SOURCE: Field survey, Nov 2013 - Jan 2014
properties.
07 Building condition ratings criteria
Bayard Plaza, a recent mixed use development on Loockerman Street SOURCE: Field survey, Nov 2013 - Jan 2014
RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER IN CONTEXT 13
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Capitalizing on housing development opportunities on or within walking 09]. The preservation of and increased access to affordable
distance of Loockerman would help change perception of this struggling housing will be key to providing housing opportunities to Central Dover
commercial corridor, as well as bring a denser customer base to support residents.
commercial revitalization. Recent developments along Loockerman, such
as the large new office building at the west Loockerman gateway, the mixed Add to those factors a high unemployment rate [10% in 2010] and lower
use development at Bayard Plaza, and the recruitment of The Delaware educational attainment levels, and it becomes clear that many members of
EZ-Pass Customer Service Center and Division of Motor Vehicles Call the Central Dover community face a number of challenges that will require
Center, can be leveraged to continue to build momentum and critical the continued expansion of local services to meet the needs of
mass along Loockerman. of residents.
SOCIOECONOMIC CHALLENGES CRIME AND PERCEPTION OF SAFETY
Some Central Dover residents have faced disadvantages in life that have One of the most prominent major quality of life issues that arose in
placed them at the margins. The area’s weighted average median income, community discussions during the Restoring Central Dover process—and
$34,730 is 27% lower than the City of Dover’s $47,754. More than half of one that impacts efforts to retain residents and businesses as well as
families in Central Dover are headed by a single female householder [Fig
08], compared to one in three families with single female householders
city-wide. Many Central Dover residents face considerable housing cost
burdens, with a significant portion of the study area showing 81% or more
of renters paying more than 30% of their income towards gross rent [Fig
08 Household characteristics 09 Percent cost-burdened renters
The concentrated college student population is classified in the “non-family” group by the Percent of renter households for whom gross rent is 30% or more of household income.
Census, which likely explains why the non-family share in Central Dover is 11% higher Gross rent is the contract rent plus the estimated average monthly cost of utilities.
than that of the City of Dover. The rate of 53% of families being headed by single female SOURCE: American Community Survey, 2007-2011
householders refers only to the 47% of households that are considered a “family” and
does not include students.
SOURCE: 2010 US Census
14 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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attract new ones—was crime and perception of safety. When asked what
they liked least about Central Dover, 42% of resident survey participants
identified “Safety in the community,” which received the greatest number of
“least liked” responses by a margin of 12%.
Crime data from the Dover Police Department shows that the number
of violent crimes per 1,000 persons in the Central Dover area rose from
6.16 per person in 2011, to 22.76 per person in 2013, a nearly 400%
increase over a three year period [Fig 10]. In 2013 alone, nearly all forms
of reported crimes in the plan were 3- to 5-times that of Dover overall [Fig
11]. These figures were alarming to the Central Dover community and plan
leadership, and indicates a clear need to bring more resources to ensure
the safety of the Central Dover community.
10 Change in violent crime rates, 2011-2013
SOURCE: Field survey, Nov 2013 - Jan 2014
11 2013 Crime rate breakdown: Central Dover and City-wide
SOURCE: Field survey, Nov 2013 - Jan 2014
RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER IN CONTEXT 15
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OUR VISION FOR VITALITY
This plan represents our community’s vision for restoring
the vitality of Central Dover. It offers a range of achievable
strategies, implemented over a five year period,
designed to lay the foundation for future opportunities
to fully realize Central Dover’s potential as a place to
live, work, and play.
GOAL AREAS
A range of strategies towards achieving our vision for vitality are organized in three goal areas
designed to achieve:
1. A STRONG COMMUNITY
2. POSITIVE DEVELOPMENT
3. AN INTEGRATED PUBLIC REALM AND INFRASTRUCTURE
16 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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1
A STRONG COMMUNITY
Página 169
BUILD COMMUNITY CAPITAL
Community support is critical to implementing the goals of this plan. Working to strengthen community
cohesion through the cultivation of neighborhood groups will not only provide spaces for residents to
enjoy each other’s company as well as address issues collectively. It will also encourage them to root
themselves in Central Dover, as well as attract new residents looking for a deeper sense of community.
ESTABLISH RESIDENT-LED CIVIC GROUPS DEVELOP AND DISTRIBUTE COMMUNITY
SHORT TERM CALENDAR OF ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS
Initial Action Steps: Determine existing groups, organize leadership, SHORT TERM
hold meetings, and develop leadership. Initial Action Steps: Assemble dates, publish and distribute.
DEVELOP COMMUNITY BUILDING EVALUATE LEVEL OF ACCESS TO COMMUNITY
PARTNERSHIP WITH ANCHOR INSTITUTIONS FACILITIES FOR SERVICES
SHORT TERM INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Overtures to Wesley and Bayhealth; Discussions Initial Action Steps: Create inventory of existing facilities; Evaluate
with Wesley about their Strategic Plan and BayHealth on their Community current usage and determine areas where needs are not being met by
Impact Plan; Implement community building partnership. existing facilities.
CREATE ANNUAL DEVELOP COMMUNITY FACILITIES FOR
“CELEBRATING CENTRAL SERVICES
DOVER” BLOCK PARTY
LONG TERM
SHORT TERM/ANNUALLY Initial Action Steps: Explore the development of community facilities
Initial Action Steps: Develop timeframe fall or spring; Assemble partners as community social service needs are identified; Predevelopment and
and sponsors; Plan and hold event. feasibility work leading to development phase; Construction of Community
Facilities.
EXPAND ON “COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP DAYS”
SHORT TERM
Initial Action Steps: Convene prior partners; Envision new plan going
forward and hold events.
18 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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INCREASE PUBLIC SAFETY
Expanding efforts to make an at-risk community safe is imperative for any neighborhood revitalization
initiative. Without a viable plan for reducing crime, attempts to attract investment, businesses, and new
residents can be inhibited or even rendered impossible. Reducing illicit activities in Central Dover will
greatly benefit current residents and improve efforts to attract investment, businesses, and new residents.
ESTABLISH COLLABORATIVE/COMMUNITY EXPAND SURVEILLANCE CAMERA NETWORK
POLICING INTERMEDIATE TERM
SHORT TERM Initial Action Steps: Cost estimate for expanded system; Seek
Initial Action Steps: Form citizen oversight committee on community community buy-in; Seek funding for expanded surveillance cameras.
policing; Create neighborhood watch network.
IMPROVE LIGHTING IN TARGETED AREAS
DEPLOY POLICE FOOT AND BIKE PATROLS INTERMEDIATE TERM
SHORT TERM/ON-GOING Initial Action Steps: Research and develop scenarios for resident
Initial Action Steps: Convene meeting to discuss options with partners; assisted porch lighting program; Work with Sustainable Energy Utilities
Develop action plan and seek funding and deploy. and install street lighting in poorly lit areas.
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS 19
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ENGAGE YOUTH IN COMMUNITY
Finding ways to involve youth in the revitalization and stewardship of Central Dover will not only provide
activities for young people to take part in or simply provide employment opportunities. This will help
reinforce the need for their active participation in shaping their community and keep them accountable
to sustaining it and protecting Central Dover’s vitality.
SUSTAIN AND EXPAND YOUTH CREATE YOUTH OUTREACH AND
PROGRAMMING EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT CENTER
SHORT TERM SHORT TERM/INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Evaluate existing youth programming level of Initial Action Steps: Complete construction of facilities; Develop
service; Seek resources to expand programming where needed. programming and curriculum; Examine access to broader community
recreational assets and improve transportation to these assets for youth
in Central Dover.
ESTABLISH POLICE ATHLETIC LEAGUE
SHORT TERM PROVIDE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Initial Action Steps: Dover Police Department is planning to establish
PAL; Market PAL to community; Implement the program. VOCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTH
INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Examine Youth Build or similar programs for
feasibility; Develop intern and mentoring opportunities in year 3, 4 and 5.
20 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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EXPAND ADULT AND FAMILY SERVICES
Restoring Central Dover must include strengthening support for residents who live on the margins by
providing opportunities for them to actively pursue improving their employment situations. According
to the American Community Survey, approximately 46% of Central Dover households earn less than
$30,000 annually.
STRENGTHEN AND EXPAND TRANSITIONAL
HOUSING AND RELATED SERVICES
INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Target housing towards families with children;
Convene partners and develop plan; Develop housing.
ESTABLISH A FAMILY SERVICES
COLLABORATIVE
SHORT TERM
Initial Action Steps: Steering Committee facilitate initial meetings;
Collaborative then establishes its ongoing agenda.
EXPAND FINANCIAL EDUCATION AND
HOUSING COUNSELING SERVICES
SHORT TERM/ON-GOING
Initial Action Steps: Strategize ways to enagage the community
residents; Identify site for workshops in the plan area; Refer to NCALL’s
on-going programs.
Change in median household income
SOURCE: 2000 U.S. Census, American Community Survey, 2007 - 2011
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS 21
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22 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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2
POSITIVE DEVELOPMENT
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STRENGTHEN EXISTING HOUSING
Neighborhood building conditions shape perception of neighborhood character and potential. Distressed
buildings falling into disrepair, especially when concentrated, can make streets appear unsafe, deterring
new residents and investors. Developing strategies to help maintain and improve housing stock is essential
to ensuring long-term neighborhood vitality and encouraging reinvestment in Central Dover.
EXPAND ACCESS TO HOUSING REPAIR EXPLORE WAYS TO BOOST HOMEOWNERSHIP
PROGRAMS SHORT TERM/INTERMEDIATE TERM
SHORT TERM/INTERMEDIATE TERM Initial Action Steps: Bringing together all parties to brainstorm on
Initial Action Steps: Examine recent repair program statistics to methods of boosting homeowneship such as employer assisted housing,
assess impact program is making in Central Dover and expand outreach incentives, and education and come up with an implementation plan;
to homeowners; Meet with partners to determine plan to serve Central Recruit from existing renters and workers commuting to Central Dover
Dover and implement; Provide educational resources and training for and provide homebuying education and financial incentives.
homeowners in rehabilitation techniques, homeownership responsibliites,
and financial management; Consider allowing first time buyers to utilize
repair funds when purchasing in Central Dover.
INITIATE VOLUNTEER-BASED NEIGHBORHOOD
HOUSING REPAIR ORGANIZATION
INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Meet with potential partners to determine plan for
going forward and implement.
STRENGTHEN CODE ENFORCEMENT
SHORT TERM
Initial Action Steps: Work with city to engage an independent consulting
firm to assess department efficiency and identify areas for improvement;
Work with homeowners and landlords to provide education and financial
incentives to maintain housing units; City will be notified by DHA and
DSHA when a housing unit or property fails a Section 8/Voucher housing
inspection.
Housing occupancy and tenure
SOURCE: 2010 U.S. Census, 2007-2011 American Community Survey
24 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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SUPPORT NEW DEVELOPMENT
The Central Dover area has enough vacant land to comprise 25 football fields. Opportunities for residential
and commercial development in the plan area are considerable. Removing certain regulatory and
property acquisition barriers to development may encourage infill construction.
ENCOURAGE GREATER ZONING FLEXIBILITY
TO ENABLE INFILL HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
SHORT TERM
Initial Action Steps: Develop zoning overlay for Downtown
Redevelopment District to allow condominiums and townhouse styles;
Allow some flexibility in setbacks and block standards for architectural and
design elements that complement area; Engage neighborhood residents
to share ideas for design and neighborhood standards in Central Dover.
FACILITATE PARCEL ASSEMBLY AND
REDEVELOPMENT
INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Explore land banking and land trust options for
assembling parcels and redevelopment efforts; Meet with Diamond State
Community Land Trust to explore what is possible; Establish a parcel
assembly process and make lots available for development.
EVALUATE WAYS OF PROVIDING FINANCIAL
INCENTIVES FOR DEVELOPMENT
SHORT TERM
Initial Action Steps: City consider waiving impact fees, lowering
permitting fees, and real estate taxes (PILOT) for developers of new
housing and especially affordable housing.
Infill development opportunity sites
From a the full inventory of vacant buildings, vacant land, and parking lots in the Central
Dover study area clusters of development opportunity sites within walking distance of
Loockerman are identified in orange. Prioritizing development close to Loockerman will
reinforce commercial corridor revitalization efforts.
SOURCE: Field survey, Nov 2013 - Jan 2014
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS 25
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DEVELOP AFFORDABLE HOUSING OPTIONS EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES TO CREATE
INTERMEDIATE TERM CENTRALIZED STUDENT HOUSING OPTIONS
Initial Action Steps: Recuit and select housing developers to repair and OFF CAMPUS
to build new affordable and market-rate housing for homeownership and
rental housing; Secure capital for projects; Undertake predevelopment INTERMEDIATE TERM
activities and start the development process. Initial Action Steps: Engage Wesley, City, and DDP to develop list of
housing options for students and faculty within Central Dover; Explore
off-campus mixed use student housing options linking the campus to
PROVIDE ASSISTANCE IN ACTIVATING UPPER Loockerman Street; Develop a plan.
STORIES ALONG LOOCKERMAN STREET
LONG TERM
Initial Action Steps: Research existing, successful programs; Pilot
financial assistance programs to assist businesses and building owners to
enact façade improvements and repairs to help attract residential tenants;
Improvements will provide incentives for upper floor renters such as lower
utility costs, increased security and other amenities.
26 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Página 178
REINVEST IN COMMERCIAL CORRIDORS
Loockerman Street, Central Dover’s main commercial corridor of Central Dover, has a unique character
and great potential, but currently struggles with high vacancy and turnover rates. Developing a strategy
to fill vacancies along Loockerman and recast the corridor as a vibrant and bustling destination will
improve the revenue streams and draw visitors from all over Delaware and the tri-state area.
BUILD AND EXPAND ON MARKETING/
BRANDING EFFORTS FOR THE LOOCKERMAN
STREET CORRIDOR AND CENTRAL DOVER
SHORT TERM/INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Review, revise and implement current Downtown
Marketing Plan with updated marketing information/materials tailored to
potential investors and small business inquiries; Recruit new retail and
businesses to locate in Downtown Dover.
ACTIVATE VACANT STOREFRONTS
SHORT TERM
Initial Action Steps: Coordinate the implementation of creative work
by area youth and displays by nonprofit organizations in the vacant store
fronts; Encourage pop-up stores and incubator businesses by providing
free rent incentives.
ADDRESS CONCENTRATED LOITERING
SHORT TERM Conceptual visualization of temporary vacant storefront
Initial Action Steps: Revisit licensing requirements and zoning installation
restrictions as well as a direct approach to nuisance business owners
about ways to change their business’ image.
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS 27
Página 179
EXPAND SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT RECRUIT MAJOR LOCAL EMPLOYERS TO
PROGRAMS FOR NEW AND EXISTING BUSINESS ESTABLISH SATELLITE OFFICES ON
OWNERS COMMERCIAL CORRIDORS
INTERMEDIATE TERM INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Continue the implementation of Downtown Dover Initial Action Steps: Implement a recruitment initiative focusing on
Partnership Technical Assistance Program (Small Business Development relocating smaller operations and targeting specific, mid-size available
Workshops, Intake Assessment, Loan Programs, incentives, and space and/or vacant office spaces within the downtown corridor.
referrals); Examine and pilot other possible programs that could be
implemented.
28 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Página 180
ENSURE EQUITABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The racial and ethnic composition of Central Dover has grown more diverse over the past decade. From
2000 to 2010, the plan area saw a 12% increase in total population, from 3,323 to 3,735 residents. During
that period, the percentage of those identifying as persons of color increased by 6%, with the European
American cohort dropping from 41% to 34%.
DEVELOP A COMPREHENSIVE WORKFORCE
DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY
INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Explore potential pilot programs such as “Ice
House” Entrepreneurship Program and Small Business Development
Program Phase I; Implement a pilot program.
COMPLETE ECONOMIC INCLUSION STUDY
INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Implement recommendations from study that is
presently underway upon approval of committee.
Worker inflow & outflow
SOURCE: Bureau of Labor Statistics
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS 29
Página 181
30 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Página 182
3
AN INTEGRATED PUBLIC REALM AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Página 183
IMPROVE TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE
Much of the Central Dover area is a fairly walkable urban fabric, however, the contextual land use
patterns and low-density development standard in the region result in a pervasive reliance on cars for
personal transportation. The community’s hopes for improved alternative transportation options resulted
in a number of recommendations towards improving mobility and achieving more balanced streets.
EXPAND AND ENHANCE TRANSIT SERVICES
INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Learn what transportation studies have
been done for the plan area and if needed, request that an in-depth
transportation accessibility study for Central Dover; Advocate for better
bus routes and better times of operations to serve Central Dover with
DelDOT; Change name of bus route 109 to Central Dover.
IMPROVE BUS STOPS AND TRANSIT DEPOT
INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Meet with the community to determine
placement of additional bus shelters; Construct additional bus shelters
within the target area; Improve the Dover Transit Center with seating,
shelter, public rest rooms and real-time schedule displays.
ADVOCATE FOR A REGIONAL TRANSIT
CONNECTION STUDY
LONG TERM
Initial Action Steps: Initiate conversation with DelDOT regarding
status of study regarding the feasiblity of a commuter rail services from
Wilmington to Dover; Examine feasibility of additional bus service from
Dover to other DE destinations.
Potential regional rail connection
SOURCE: DelDOT, 2011 Delaware State Rail Plan
32 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Página 184
WORK TO SUBSIDIZE YOUTH AND FAMILY
TRANSIT ACCESS
INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Examine other subsidized transit programs for low-
income families and youth; Seek ways to reduce the cost to low-income
riders in Central Dover and implement a process with the State Social
Service Dept. and Dept. of Labor to reduce bus transportation costs for
Central Dover residents.
BUILD ON EXISTING BIKE INFRASTRUCTURE
LONG TERM
Initial Action Steps: Support the proposed network of existing and
improvement ideas for the bicycle network in Central Dover, especially the
enhanced through-access on Route 8 and Loockerman Street; Examine
the possiblities for bike lanes such as the right-of-ways on Route 8 for a
separated bicycle infrastructure as well as a North - South bicycle route
through Dover.
IMPROVE PEDESTRIAN CONNECTIVITY AND
INFRASTRUCTURE
INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Repair all broken and eroding sidewalks in Central
Dover; widen where possible.
CONDUCT A COMPREHENSIVE PARKING
STUDY FOR CENTRAL DOVER
SHORT TERM
Initial Action Steps: Examine the parking study conducted by the City
of Dover/DDP to determine if the allocation and number of parking spaces
for business employees vs customers is adequate; Conduct another study
if necessary and implement recommendations such as developing a map
of the parking areas, a parking ap and/or electric signage.
Existing and proposed Forest Street/Route 8 right of way
configuration
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS 33
Página 185
ENHANCE OPEN SPACES AND EXPAND GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE
The Central Dover community shared a wealth of ideas for improving parks and creating more green
space. Investing in Central Dover’s public gathering spaces and green infrastructure will bring several
benefits, including raising the profile of the neighborhood and attracting new residents, businesses, and
visitors.
DEVELOP PROGRAMMED RECREATION SPACES
INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Examine existing and other options for recreational
spaces in Central Dover for best use according to community needs;
Upgrade, and make the existing parks in the plan area accessible and user
friendly.
STRATEGICALLY DEVELOP POCKET PARKS ON
VACANT LOTS
INTERMEDIATE TERM
Initial Action Steps: Create pocket parks where vacant land exists that
could be used for recreation, relaxing or community gardens.
CREATE A WEST LOOCKERMAN GATEWAY
PARK
LONG TERM
Initial Action Steps: Determine site owner’s willingness to partner;
Develop plan for the park and construct the park.
Potential pocket park opportunity sites
34 RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Página 186
ENABLE PLAY STREET DESIGNATION
LONG TERM PROJECTED PLAN
Initial Action Steps: Meet with the residents to identify the streets and
best times during the year to close off a street as a play street; Work with IMPLEMENTATION COSTS
the City to determine the procedure for turning a street into a play street
during summer months; Establish the procedure; Establish and publicize
the schedule or calendar of when certain blocks of each street would be
A STRONG COMMUNITY $8,090,000
a play street. POSITIVE DEVELOPMENT $21,070,000
AN INTEGRATED PUBLIC REALM
INTEGRATE GREEN STORMWATER AND INFRASTRUCTURE $4,185,000
MANAGEMENT ON WATER STREET
LONG TERM TOTAL IMPLEMENTATION
Initial Action Steps: Contact the City to learn what the plans are
for stormwater improvements along Water Street and advocate for the COST: $33,345,000
integration of green stormwater management.
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS 35
Página 187
RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER
2015—2016 IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS REPORT
The Restoring Central Dover initiative is led by
NCALL and a Steering Committee com-
prised of community and city representa-
tives. Now in implementation, the compre-
hensive neighborhood plan lists a multitude
of strategies for a Strong Community, Positive
Development, and an Integrated Public
Realm and Infrastructure. These focus on
community building, safety, social services,
affordable housing, commercial develop-
ment, and transportation with many strate-
gies under each goal area. The plan serves
as a tool for local leadership to prioritize their
goals and direct their efforts, increase resi-
dent involvement and, ultimately, implement
positive change.
Some milestones that were achieved or initi-
ated in fiscal year 2015 include the following:
Restoring Central Dover partnered with
the City of Dover for the Strong Neigh-
borhood Clean-up in the fall. 125 vol-
unteers participated, and more than
three tons of trash and five tons of yard
waste were removed. *Dover’s Downtown Development
District is within the plan area.
The formation of two Neighborhood Watch Groups was completed as one way to improve public safety and
strengthen the relationship between the community and law enforcement.
A Back to School Event was held in August 2015 and over 500 people attended, 250 backpacks were given away,
and free salon styles and haircuts were provided.
Delaware’s Neighborhood Building Blocks Fund (NBBF) awarded the City of Dover $35,000 to fund four new surveil-
lance cameras and three years of maintenance.
The Solid Rock Community Outreach Center was completed; NCALL provided the construction financing. Commu-
nity meetings are held there and family and youth services are provided.
Construction was completed on the Sankofa Cultural Arts Center; NCALL provided financing and technical assis-
tance for this important community asset.
NCALL convened nonprofit developers to acquire the first round of Strong Neighborhood Housing Funding (SNHF).
Lots have been purchased and Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity, NCALL, and Milford Housing Development
Corporation are building houses and the construction costs are subsidized to provide affordable mortgages.
As a step to encourage greater zoning flexibility to enable infill housing development, Dover City Council voted to
approve a rezoning amendment that would allow townhouses and duplexes as a conditional use in the downtown
area.
Página 188
RESTORING CENTRAL DOVER
2015—2016 IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS REPORT
In FY 2016, Restoring Central Dover engaged an estimated 903 residents and volunteers in Community Building
Activities.
An estimated total of 364 volunteer hours was provided for community events and resident-led meetings.
Held a Resident-led Community Fair in June with over 500 attendees in partnership with the CenDel Founda-
tion and the Police Department.
Supported four Kent Kids Community Dinners to promote the farm-to-table, healthy eating and living con-
cept.
New homeownership opportunities were made available in Central Dover. Central Delaware Habitat for
Humanity built five new homes and two are underway, NCALL has two homes under construction, and
MHDC has two homes underway.
The City of Dover Police Department re-established the Police Athletic League to provide positive recreation
and mentorship for Dover’s youth.
NCALL awarded $43,000 from the Wells Fargo grant to Restoring Central Dover Work Groups as seed money
to jump start community development projects and/or events.
Community Clean-up days have been expanded. A second was held during the spring with nearly 40 volun-
teers, including residents, students, and the faith-based community.
COME TAKE PART IN
HELPING OUR COMMUNITY!
TOGETHER WE CAN
MAKE CENTRAL DOVER
A PLACE WHERE
EVERYONE WOULD LIKE
302.678.9400
TO LIVE, WORK, AND PLAY!
VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.NCALL.ORG • FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK.COM/CENTRALDOVER
JOIN THE RESIDENT ENGAGEMENT WORK GROUP • SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER • ATTEND EVENTS
Página 189
DOVER POLICE DEPARTMENT
ANNUAL REPORT
2016
1
Página 190
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
2016
Table of Contents
Letter by Major Marvin Mailey 3-4 Criminal Investigation Unit, 43-47
Complaints Five Year Comparison 5 Detective Section
Total Group A Crime Five Year Comparison Graph 6 Drugs, Vice & Organized Crime Section,
Violent Crime Graph 7 Crime Scene Investigation Unit & Juvenile
Robberies Five Year Comparison Graph 8 911 Center 48
Robberies Clearance Rate Graph 9 Patrol Unit 49
Burglaries Five Year Comparison 10 C.A.R.S. / Crash Investigation 50
Burglary Clearance Rate 11 Reconstruction Team
Drug Offenses Five Year Comparison 12 Community Policing Section 51
Actual Drug Arrests Graph 13 Sex Offender Enforcement Section 52
Property Crime Five Year Comparison Graph 14 K-9 Section 53
Crime Clearance Comparison Chart 15 Motorcycle Section 54
Criminal Summary Chart 16-17 Parking Enforcement Attendants &
Crashes Five Year Comparison Graph 18 Animal Control 55
Crashes Breakdown Five Year Comparison Chart 19 Police Resources Manager & 56
Traffic Arrests Five Year Comparison Graph 20 Central Services Coordinator
Traffic Arrests Summary Chart 21 Evidence Technician/Photographer &
City Ordinance Summons Issued/Paid Graph 22 Building Maintenance
City Ordinance Summons Issued/Paid Chart 23 LAN Analyst & Records Unit 57
Police Time/Distribution Hours Chart 24 Victim Services Unit 58
Miscellaneous Calls for Service Chart 25 Planning & Training Section 59
Grant Funding Summary 26 Police Chaplains, Volunteer Honor Guard 60
Extra Duty Billings 27 & Bag Pipers
Dover Police Organizational Chart 28 CALEA Accreditation 61
Dover Police Administrative Staff 29-31 Medication Return Box 62
Promotions 32 Cadet Program 63
Officers of the Quarter– 1st & 2nd Qtr. 33 Retirements 64
Officers of the Quarter—3rd & 4th Qtr. 34
Civilians of the Quarter—1st & 2nd Qtr. 35
Civilians of the Quarter—3rd & 4th Qtr. 36
Officer & Civilian of the Year 37
Awards Ceremonies 38
New Officers 39
Crisis Negotiation Team 40
Public Information Officer 41
Internal Affairs 42
Página 193
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Complaints
Five Year Comparison
45,000
44,000 43,692
43,000
42,000
41,000
40,000
39,131
39,000
38,000
37,000
36,058
36,000 35,678 35,449
35,000
34,000
33,000
32,000
31,000
30,000
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Página 194
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Total Group A Crime
Five Year Comparison
6,000
5,662
5,365
4,934 4,993 5,041
5,000
4,000
3,469
3,344 3,280
3,091 3,037
3,000
2,000
1,000
0
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
TOTAL CLEARED
Página 195
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Violent Crime
(Murder, Forcible Rape, Robbery, Aggravated Assault)
Five Year Comparison
350
326 319
306
300
278
248 243 250
250
216
200 194 193
150
100
50
0
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
RECEIVED CLEARED
Página 196
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Robberies
Five Year Comparison
80 76
68
70
63 65
60
50
50
40
30
20
10
0
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Página 197
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Robbery Clearance Rate
Dover Police Department vs. Nation
80%
72.0% 72.0%
70% 68.2%
63.2%
60%
52.0%
50%
40%
33.2% 33.4% 34.0% 33.0%
30%
20%
10%
0%
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Dover PD Nation
NATIONAL FIGURES NOT AVAILABLE FOR 2016
Página 198
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Burglaries
Five Year Comparison
140
128
120
110
100 98
80 81
80
60
40
20
0
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Página 199
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Burglary Clearance Rate
Dover Police Department vs. Nation
70%
64% 63%
62%
60% 58.1%
55%
50%
40%
30%
20%
13.6% 14% 14% 14%
10%
0%
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
DOVER PD NATIONAL
NATIONAL FIGURES NOT AVAILABLE FOR 2016
Página 200
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Drug Offenses
Five Year Comparison
900
776 770 791 771
800
710
700 684 678 675
600 584 573
500
400
300
200
100
0
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
TOTAL CLEARED
Página 201
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Drug Cases
By the
Drugs, Vice and Organized Crime Section
3,000
2,500 2,399
2,000
1,663 1,726 1,688
1,644
1,500
1,000
500
0
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Página 202
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Property Crime
(Burglary, Theft, Motor Vehicle Theft, Arson)
Five Year Comparison
2500
2238
2133
2000 1906 1914 1920
1500
998
1000 913
794 744 692
500
0
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
TOTAL CLEARED
Página 203
NATIONAL FIGURES NOT AVAILABLE FOR 2016
Página 204
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Criminal Summary
Página 205
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Criminal Summary
Página 206
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Crashes
Five Year Comparison
2,050
2,024
2,000
1,965
1,950 1,946
1,938
1,900
1,879
1,850
1,800
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Página 207
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Crash Breakdown
Five Year Comparison
1,600
1,505
1,400
1,175 1,186
1,200 1,149
1,000
800
583
600
495 505
448
418
400 370 364 337
295
245
200
69
0
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Property Damage Private Property PI & Fatal
Página 208
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Traffic Arrests
Five Year Comparison
20,000
18,436
18,000 17,012 16,890
16,055
16,000
13,878
14,000
12,000
10,000
8,000
6,000
4,000
2,000
0
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Página 209
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Traffic Arrests Summary
Página 210
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
City Ordinance Summons
Issued/Paid
Five Year Comparison
9,000
8,000 7,563 7,650 7,585
7,315
7,000
6,328
6,000
5,000 4,566
4,381
4,000 3,789
3,222 3,262
3,000
2,000
1,000
0
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
ISSUED PAID
Página 211
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
City Ordinance Summons
Issued/Paid
Página 212
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Página 213
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Miscellaneous Calls for Service
Página 215
City of Dover Police Department
Annual Report
Extra Duty Billings
Página 217
City of Dover Police Department
Executive Staff
Chief of Police Deputy Chief of Police
Paul M. Bernat Major Marvin Mailey
Operations Division Administrative Division
Commander Commander
Captain David Spicer Captain Timothy Stump
Página 218
City of Dover Police Department
Administrative Staff
Criminal Investigations Patrol
Unit Commander Unit Commander
Lieutenant Chad Bernat Lieutenant Todd Case
Special Enforcement Internal Affairs
Unit Commander Unit Commander
Lieutenant Christopher Hermance Lieutenant Kevin Kober
Página 219
City of Dover Police Department
Civilian Administrative Staff
Police Resource Manager 911 Manager
Robin Adkins Christina Kober
Página 220
PROMOTIONS
Each year the Officers of the Dover Police Department take part in a highly competitive
promotion process, the following Officers were promoted during 2016:
TO PATROLMAN/
PATROLWOMAN FIRST CLASS
PATROLMAN ROBERT CUNNINGHAM
PATROLMAN DALE BONEY
PATROLMAN WILLIE JOHNSON
PATROLWOMAN KATELYN NICOLOSI
TO CORPORAL
PATROLMAN FIRST CLASS CLIFF FIGUEROA
PATROLMAN FIRST CLASS SCOTT HURD
PATROLMAN FIRST CLASS CHRISTOPHER PEER
PATROLMAN FIRST CLASS JAMES PIAZZA
PATROLMAN FIRST CLASS CALEB RICH
PATROLMAN FIRST CLASS JUSTIN RICHEY
PATROLMAN FIRST CLASS J. MICHAEL WILLSON
PATROLMAN FIRST CLASS BRIAN WOOD
Página 221
OFFICERS OF THE QUARTER FOR 2016
OFFICER OF THE QUARTER – 1ST QUARTER
Detective Dale Boney
st
During the 1 Quarter of 2016, Detective Boney investigated 74 complaints, clearing 69 of them He also
investigated seven robbery complaints, clearing four of them and 6 burglary complaints, clearing all of them.
These numbers were amongst the highest in the unit.
OFFICER OF THE QUARTER – 2ND QUARTER
Patrolman Anthony Smith
nd
During the 2 Quarter of 2016, Patrolman Smith handled 476 complaints, 104 total written and made 77
criminal arrests. Of the 77 criminal arrests, 13 were self initiated local fugitive arrests and 11 drug related
arrests. Ptlm. Smith also produced 64 DCO arrests and 117 traffic arrests, including 9 DUI arrests
.
Página 222
OFFICERS OF THE QUARTER FOR 2016
OFFICER OF THE QUARTER – 3RD QUARTER
Corporal Peter Martinek
rd
During the 3 quarter of 2016, Cpl. Peter Martinek was responsible for arresting several
wanted fugitives to include subjects wanted for murder, robberies, firearms and drug
charges,
OFFICER OF THE QUARTER – 4TH QUARTER
Ptlm. Anthony Smith
th
During the 4 Quarter of 2016, Patrolman Smith handled 343 complaints, 89 total written
and made 61 criminal arrests. Of the 61 criminal arrests, 15 were self initiated local
fugitive arrests and 13 drug related arrests. Ptlm. Smith also produced 22 DCO arrests and
63 traffic arrests, including 7 DUI arrests
Página 223
CIVILIANS OF THE QUARTER FOR 2016
CIVILIAN OF THE QUARTER – 1ST QUARTER
Records Clerk – Brenda Unruh
st
During the 1 quarter of 2016, Records Clerk, Brenda Unruh trained and became proficient in the NIBRS
approval process and learned to approve crash reports in Ecrash. She proved to be an asset to the Records
Unit with her strong work ethic and conscientious attention to detail.
CIVILIAN OF THE QUARTER – 2nd QUARTER
Cadet Thomas Rivera
nd
During the 2 quarter of 2016, while during security detail at the Dover Public Library, Cadet Thomas
Rivera heard a strange noise coming from the bathroom, upon investigation, found a 74 year old man turning
blue and finding it difficult to breathe. Cadet Rivera immediately administered the Heimlich maneuver,
ultimately saving the mans life.
Página 224
CIVILIANS OF THE QUARTER FOR 2016
CIVILIAN OF THE QUARTER –3RD QUARTER
Records Clerk – Jessica Hand
rd
During the 3 quarter of 2016, Records Clerk, Jessica Hand, continued to show her ability to excel, no
matter what the assignment she was tasked with. These assignments comprised of payroll for large extra
duty weekends including Firefly and NASCAR.
CIVILIAN OF THE QUARTER – 4TH QUARTER
Communication Operator – Michael O’Connor
During the 4th quarter of 2016, Communications Operator Michael O’Connor displayed exemplary
professionalism by contacting the phone company to track the cell phone of a missing suicidal subject.
His quick actions led to a timely location of the subject, that had consumed numerous amounts of an
unknown medication, that without prompt medical attention, could have ended her life.
Página 225
Officer and Civilian of the Year 2016
Dover’s Finest
OFFICER OF THE YEAR
Patrolman
Anthony Smith
CIVILIAN OF THE YEAR
Cadet
Thomas Rivera
Página 226
Awards Ceremonies
The Dover Police Department held one Award
Ceremony in 2016. Officers and Civilians earned the
following awards:
6 Police Chief’s Commendation
4 Life Saving
39 Distinguished Unit Commendations
13 Meritorious
1 Exceptional Performance
28 Service Achievement
1 D.U.I Award
2 Loyal Service
29 Safe Driving
61 Perfect Attendance
4 Officer of the Quarter
4 Civilian of the Quarter
1 Officer of the Year
1 Civilian of the Year
1 Distinguished Citizen
Página 227
From Left: Patrolman Troy Maull, Patrolman Jonathan Hummel, Patrolwoman Farrell
Welch, Patrolman Brandon Bowman, Patrolman Jordon Barrows & Patrolman Nicholas
Bufalini
From Left: Patrolman Lee Killen, Patrolman Tyler
Loomis & Patrolman Howard Deputy
Página 228
Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT)
The Crisis Negotiation Team is a specialized unit comprised of ten veteran
officers of the Dover Police Department, whose mission is to respond to all
barricade and hostage situations. The CNT commander reports directly to the
Deputy Chief of Police, who is also responsible for authorizing their activation.
Once activated, the Crisis Negotiation Team focuses their resources on
establishing personal contact with the individual involved. Once contact is
established, CNT uses the opportunity to appraise, evaluate and gather
intelligence in order to resolve the crisis as quickly as possible.
The Crisis Negotiation Team maintains their proficiency through bi-monthly
training exercises, two of which include joint training with SORT. Throughout
2016, members of the Crisis Negotiation Team attended continuing education
courses designed to enhance the team’s capabilities.
Página 229
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
The Public Information Officer (PIO) is a responsibility of the Public Affairs Office
created in the fall of 2013. Master Corporal Mark Hoffman, a 12-year veteran, is
assigned to the position and is under the direct supervision of Captain Dave Spicer,
the Operations Division Commander. The PIO is responsible for dissemination of
information to the public and media outlets as well as directly to the citizens of
Dover. This is primarily accomplished by publishing information and photos on the
department’s web site, as well through the department’s social media platforms. The
PIO maintains regular contact with journalists from newspaper, radio, and television
and gives both telephone and in-person interviews and is responsible for website
updates.
The PIO also is responsible for reputation management of the department. Keeping
up to date on local and national news media pertaining to the Dover Police
Department and gathering knowledge of trends in law enforcement are important to
calm the concerns of the public, address stories in the media, and are helpful in crime
prevention as well. Additionally, the Public Information Officer is often called upon
to serve as emcee during functions such as the promotion and award ceremonies.
In 2013, the department added social media platforms to the responsibilities of the
PIO. Through programs such a Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, the MyPD Mobile App,
Instagram, and the RAIDS Online Crime Mapping program, the department has been
able to connect with the citizens of Dover quickly and more efficiently than ever
before. The PIO sends safety messages, public service announcements, crime alerts,
educational videos, and more through the social media outlets. The PIO also assists in
criminal investigations where evidence can be retrieved via social media. Since the
inception of the program in October of 2013, the department has seen tremendous
success in solving crimes, crime prevention, public communication and reputation
management.
The Public Affairs Office also works closely with the Community Policing Unit on
various community outreach projects such as National Night Out, Holiday Heroes,
coat drives, and community meetings. In 2016, Master Corporal Hoffman partnered
with the Downtown Dover Partnership to host the First Annual Safe Trick or Treat
event which saw an estimated 7,000 people in attendance during a 2-hour event.
The ability to communicate directly to the public has led to success in solving crimes
that may have gone unsolved prior to the department’s use of social media, but has
also led to better relationships between law enforcement and the community we
Página 230
INTERNAL AFFAIRS
The Internal Affairs Unit is staffed with one sworn officer who holds
the rank of Lieutenant. The mission of the Internal Affairs Unit is to
ensure the integrity of the Police Department by maintaining an
internal system that is objective, fair, and equitable in its methods of
internal investigation. The Internal Affairs Office is responsible for
investigating allegations of misconduct by employees both sworn
and civilian. The Internal Affairs Unit also investigates all
complaints or allegations of corruption, use of excessive force,
breach of civil rights, criminal misconduct, and violations of
department policy. This office is tasked with working directly with
the City Solicitor in responding to civil actions.
In addition to its primary duties, the Internal Affairs Office retains
an active role in training new recruits along with local citizens who
attend the Citizens Police Academy. New employees are acquainted
with the function of the Internal Affairs Office, including an
overview of rules, regulations and job performance standards.
Internal Affairs is also tasked with several other responsibilities
including the inspection of departmental equipment, vehicles and
evidence storage facilities.
Página 231
Criminal Investigation Unit
Detective Section
The Dover Police Criminal Investigation Section is tasked with the
responsibility to investigate the most serious crimes that occur within
the City of Dover. This section also conducts financial and identity
theft investigations. In addition to these duties, they are called upon
to perform background investigations on all civilian and police
applicants who are being considered for employment.
In 2016, the seven detectives assigned to this section investigated a
total of 1,193 complaints. In 2016 the detectives investigated 60
robberies solving 73% of them and investigated 108 burglaries
solving 62% of them. These clearance rates are higher than the
national average, which speaks volumes for the unit’s investigative
abilities.
Compared to 2015 the Criminal Investigation Unit experienced a
decrease in Homicides and a similar amount of shooting
investigations in 2016. The detectives investigated a total of three
Homicides in 2016, one of which has been cleared by arrest and the
other two are being actively investigated. They investigated 40
shooting investigations, 19 of the reported 40 shooting victims were
shot and sustained injury or were killed as a result of the gun fire. In
the remaining 21 investigations, persons were either shot at while
occupying a residence or a vehicle.
Página 232
Drugs, Vice, & Organized Crime Section (DVOC)
The Drug, Vice, & Organized Crime Section is comprised of five officers who work in an
undercover or plain clothes capacity. All five officers working in concert are committed to
eliminating the use and sale of illegal drugs, counterfeit merchandise, and prostitution from
the City of Dover. The Gang Intelligence Officer is assigned to the Drug, Vice and Organized
Crime Section and is responsible for intelligence gathering and criminal investigation of
Gang Members and Violent Offenders. Because of their dedication and commitment, the
DVOC Section handled a total of 1,288 cases. As a result of these cases, the unit seized a
large number of illegal drugs and money. These seizures include 6,541.23 grams of
marijuana, 1,437.97 grams of cocaine, 37.945 grams of heroin, 192.3 doses of ecstasy and
$69,179.00 in currency.
The Drugs, Vice, and Organized Crime Section takes great pride in the working relationship it
has established and maintained with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), The
Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms agency (ATF), The United States Marshals Service (USMS),
and the Delaware Department of Probation and Parole.
Seizures
2015 2016 Percent Change
Marijuana (Grams) 11,704 6,541.23 -44%
Cocaine (Grams) 2,204 1,437.97 -35%
Heroin (Grams) 1,700 377.945 -78%
Ecstasy (Doses) 533 192.3 -64%
Firearms 26 92 72%
Currency $ 98,893.00 $ 69,179.00 -30%
Case Total 1,688 1,288 -24%
Página 233
DEA Task Force
The Dover Police Department continued its ongoing relationship with the Drug Enforcement
Administration (DEA) during 2016. The local DEA Task Force is comprised of detectives from
local and state police agencies who work in conjunction with federal agents from the Drug
Enforcement Administration. The Dover Police Department continues to provide one officer to
work with this federal task force.
Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms Task Force (ATF)
The Dover Police Department partnered with the ATF in 2012. The police department currently
has one full-time detective assigned to this task force. The task force’s mission focuses on gang
activity, gun trafficking and violent crime within the State of Delaware. The partnership with
the ATF has proven to be successful and the Dover Police Department looks forward to the
continued relationship for many years to come.
United States Marshals Service
In 2016 the Dover Police Department continues to partner with the United States Marshals
Service (USMS). The Dover Police Department has one full time officer assigned to this
agency. This new partnership has increased the ability to apprehend violent fugitives who are
attempting to avoid prosecution. The Dover Police Department is very excited to be part of this
agency’s mission and looks forward to the continued relationship.
Street Crimes Section
In March of 2016 the Street Crimes Unit’s staffing was increased from five officers to seven
These Dover Police Officers work in concert with two Delaware Probation and Parole Officers.
Together they concentrate their efforts to address violent crimes, street level sales of illegal
narcotics and monitor probationers who reside within the city limits of Dover. Street Crimes
accomplishes this by utilizing crime mapping to identify violent crime hot spots. They then
will concentrate their enforcement efforts in those areas. Street Crimes Section works closely
the DVOC Unit to jointly accomplish larger operations. During 2016 the seven Street Crimes
officers made a total of 1271 arrests and seized 42 firearms.
Página 234
Crime Scene Investigation Section
(CSI)
In 2016 the Crime Scene Investigations Section’s staffing was increased from one Detective to
two Detectives to address the ever growing need of processing evidence and crime scenes. These
Detectives report to the Detective Section Sergeant. The Crime Scene Investigation Section is
trained in cutting edge technology and procedures in the collection of forensic evidence. Their
duties include processing major crime scenes, DNA collection from suspects, processing and
tracing of all firearms seized, processing shell casings and/or bullets recovered and any other
processing re-quests that are needed by officers in the department.
Special Operations Response Team
(SORT)
SORT is comprised of 18 veteran officers. Officers are only considered for this special
assignment upon completion of extensive physical testing as well as firearms proficiency.
Members of SORT are highly trained in areas of hostage rescue, barricaded subjects, and high
risk warrant service. During 2015, numerous veteran officers of this extremely motivated team
completed an average of over 150 hours of specialized training in firearms and tactics.
Additionally, SORT executed numerous high-risk search warrants in support of the Drugs,
Vice, And Organized Crime Section, Detective Section, and the Federal Drug Enforcement
Agency .
Página 235
Juvenile Section
School Resource Officers and Police Athletic League
The School Resource Officer (SRO) section consists of five officers and the Police Athletic
League (PAL) has one officer.
The School Resource Officer (SRO) program is in its twelfth year thanks to a partnership
between the Dover Police Department and the Capital School District. PFC Piazza is
assigned to Central Middle School, Cpl. Stevenson is assigned to the Dover High School
and PFC Knight is assigned to the Parkway Academy, Cpl. Nester is assigned to the Kent
County Intensive Learning Center and Cpl. Gedney is assigned to William Henry Middle
School as SRO’s. SROs regularly teach various classes regarding health and safety issues.
In addition to patrolling the school grounds and attending after school functions, such as
sports events and student dances, all Juvenile Section Officers are involved in
extracurricular events throughout the year. The events are held in different locations in the
city and are focused on positive interaction with children and teenagers. Many times these
events and programs are in partnership with the Police Athletic League. The Juvenile
Section Officers strive to build and maintain a positive rapport with all of the students in
the Capital School District and the children that reside in our community. The Juvenile
Section also handles criminal complaints throughout the year involving juvenile related
crimes.
The Police Athletic League (PAL) program is a newly incorporated program coordinated
by MCpl. Hester. The program operates with grant funding which covers hardware and
personnel to support the numerous sports oriented activities. The PAL program hosts
community and summer basketball competitions, as well as football and hockey leagues
throughout the city. The program also works in conjunction with William Henry Middle
and Central Middle Schools with life skills building classes. The PAL program has also
partnered with the FBI, Delaware Department of Corrections and the Dover Housing
Authority to create and operate the Green Bret Project. This program is designed to
promote team and leadership skills in youth. The School Resource Officers also play an
active role in all these programs.
Página 236
Dover Police 911 Center
The Dover Police Department's 911 Center is the first point of
contact for emergency services provided to the residents and
visitors of Dover. The 911 center operates 24 hours a day 7 days
a week providing police, fire and emergency medical services.
The 911 center is staffed by twelve full time dispatchers. Once a
call is received by a dispatcher, he or she will obtain the pertinent
information necessary to log the call for service in the Computer
Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. Once the call is logged in the
CAD system, the dispatcher must prioritize the complaint, and
then ensure the appropriate emergency services are promptly
dispatched. The CAD system allows the dispatchers to check for
hazards or prior calls from the location of the call for service. In
addition, dispatchers can monitor the officer’s status, such as
when a vehicle is stopped or attending court. Dispatchers are
tasked with staying in constant communication via 800 MHz
radio system and in car computers, known as Mobile Data
Terminals (MDT) with officers. When not busy on the
telephone or radio, dispatcher’s duties include data entry of
wanted persons, missing persons, stolen guns, articles, plates, and
vehicles in the local system DELJIS) and National Crime
Dispatcher
Information CenterPatricia
(NCIC)Sapp andmonitoring 911 calls
criminal history checks.
Dispatchers are responsible, dedicated professionals with a strong
work ethic to help keep the citizens of the City of Dover, as well
as our officers safe.
In 2011, the 911 center received 119,180 telephones calls, 39,559 of those calls
In 2016,
were received on thethe911
Dover Police lines.
emergency Department
The911
911 Center
center received
averaged 327 calls
daily. In addition,
106,721 the 911 center
telephone logged of
calls, 35,329 41,609
thosecalls
calls for service
were in on
received CAD.
the 911 emergency lines. The 911 Center averaged 293 calls
daily. In addition, the 911 Center logged 37,442 calls for service
in CAD.
Página 237
Patrol Unit
The primary responsibility of the Patrol Unit is to respond to calls for service in the
community twenty-four hours a day. These calls for service include: criminal
complaints, motor vehicle crashes, medical emergencies and an assortment of other
types of assistance.
Patrol officers are the first responders to a variety of incidents, thus protecting the life
and property of citizens and visitors to the City of Dover, while at the same time
proactively enforcing all aspects of the law.
The Patrol Unit consists of four Platoons. A typical Platoon consists of officers with
the following specialized training and responsibilities:
Crash Investigation and Reconstruction
Special Operations Response Team
Crisis Negotiators
Shift Investigators
Field Training Officers
Honor Guard
Página 238
Collision, Awareness, Responsibility & Safety Program
(CARS)
The Dover Police Department’s CARS program was developed for high
school students enrolled in Driver’s Education. The Department partnered
with Dover High School and the Delaware Drivers Education Program
and started teaching this program in the fall of 2004. The 90-minute block
of instruction was created and is taught by officers specially trained in
Collision Reconstruction. The core topics include common violations that
result in collisions, occupant protection (seat belts/airbags), decision
making, and what to do if involved in a collision. The purpose of the
course is to teach our new motorists the harsh reality of motor vehicle
collisions from the grim point of view of the officer who investigates
them. The ultimate goal is to take a proactive measure in an attempt to
keep our youth safe.
Crash Investigation & Reconstruction Team
The City of Dover Police Department investigated 1946 traffic crashes
in 2016. This was an overall increase of 3.56% from 2015. This past
year the Dover Police Department also investigated 5 fatal injury
crashes (4 pedestrians, 1 pedacyclist, 0 driver and 0 passenger on
exterior of vehicle). In the event of a fatal, serious injury, hazardous
material or police officer involved crash, the Dover Police Department
relies on the highly trained Crash Investigation and Reconstruction
Team. The Reconstruction Team consists of seven officers. Each
platoon is assigned a team member with the remaining two officers
being assigned to the Detectives Unit. The Reconstruction Officers have
received advanced training in the following areas: Traffic Crash
Reconstruction from the Institute of Police Training and Management
Advance Traffic Crash Investigation from the Institute of Police
Training and Management CAD Zone /crash zone computer aided
drafting Nikon Total Station for surveying Crash data retrieval
programming
Página 239
Community Policing Section
The Community Policing Section consists of three officers. Officers split their
time between the Community Policing and the Quality of Life Neighborhood
Enforcement Sections. The officers meet on a regular basis with apartment
managers, neighborhood watch groups and other civic associations. They give
safety talks to senior citizens, special presentations at schools, and educate
concerned citizens on how to implement and run an effective Neighborhood
Watch Program. These officers also teach the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program
to apartment managers in Dover. This course instructs property managers in areas
of safety by environmental design, how to screen potential applicants and evict
non-compliant tenants.
The Community Policing Section also has a lead role in planning, organizing and
executing many community outreach programs with great success. National
Night Out was another successful event which was organized by Community
Policing officers who partner with the Target Store of Dover; this event had an
estimated attendance of 1,500 people. This was the seventh annual National
Night Out event which features free food, prize giveaways and interaction with
police, fire and paramedics from our area. Due to the loss of funding from
Target, Heroes and Helpers was renamed Holiday Heroes and was a huge success
again this year, 35 officers, along with support from local businesses and private
donors, ensured that 52 underprivileged children had presents to open during
their holiday. In October, a public basketball game was held between officers
and members of the community and in the same month, the Dover Police
partnered with the Downtown Dover Partnership to implement our first annual
safe trick or treat event on Legislative Mall. We had over 75 organizations set up
to hand out candy and the event hosted an estimated seven thousand people. This
event also included food and entertainment for the attendees. In November, the
Community Policing Unit partnered with Communities in Schools, the Food
Bank of Delaware and the Dover Housing Authority to deliver 150 Thanksgiving
meals to needy families in the community. Along with these events, the
Community Policing officers are involved in Dover Days, Ghost and Goblins at
Dover Downs, July 4th fireworks, Habitat for Humanity projects and numerous
parades in Dover, as well as assisting Milford, Harrington and Milton with
holiday parades.
Página 240
.
Sex Offender Enforcement Section
Dover Police Department’s Sex Offender Enforcement
section consists of two civilian agents to monitor all
registered sex offenders that reside, work, and attend
school in the City of Dover. At any given time, there are
between 255 and 296 offenders that meet this criteria in
Dover. The agents are responsible for making all public
notifications regarding sex offenders and the agents
conduct audits on all offenders in the city to ensure
compliance with the program. Tier I is the lowest level
and is audited annually, Tier II are moderate risk and are
audited biannually, and Tier III is the highest risk level
which are audited four times within a year. If an offender
has violated the conditions of his or her registration,
agents will obtain a warrant and aggressively search for
them and make the arrest. In 2016, the Sex Offender
Enforcement Section made 376 verifications, 731
reverifications, 37,886 notifications and obtained 39
noncompliant warrants.
Página 241
K-9 Unit
The Dover Police Department Canine Unit consists of four operating teams which
are all trained in patrol operations; with three canines, crossed trained in narcotic
detection. The department currently has three teams assigned to the patrol division
and one team to the departments Street Crimes Unit. Each team will undergo
yearly certifications through the National Police Canine Association. Each team
will obtain certifications for patrol, narcotic detection and tracking. Canine teams
will assist all units within the department as well as outside agencies in
apprehending dangerous felons, fleeing suspects and the seizure of illegal narcotics.
During the year of 2016, our teams were responsible for apprehending 36 criminals,
conducted 52 tracks, 174 narcotic sniffs along with assisting in the seizure of over
$68,000.00 in United States Currency. The Canine unit had 702 total deployments
for the 2016 calendar year which is a 53% increase over 2015.
Criminal Apprehensions 36
Tracks 52
Area Searches 3
Crowd Control 3
Building Searches 40
Property Searches 26
Alarms 117
Warrant Services 68
Narcotic Sniffs 174
USC Sniffs 26
School Sniffs 11
USC Seizure 68,840
Canine Demonstrations 21
Assist Other 47
Training Hours 752.5
Deployments 702
Página 242
Motorcycle Section
This section consists of six motorcycle officers. These officers
conduct speed enforcement, or any other traffic enforcement
problem throughout the city. They lead all parades in Dover and
escort most funerals through the city. Motorcycle officers also
assist other units when needed throughout the city. In 2016, they
issued 7,799 tickets and had 2,921 complaints assigned to them.
Página 243
Parking Enforcement Section
The Dover Police Department has two full time civilians assigned to Parking
Enforcement. They enforce parking regulations throughout the city. They are
responsible for booting vehicles when the owner has failed to pay fines that have
accrued over a period of time. Parking enforcement also patrols shopping centers and
neighborhoods for parking violations.
Animal Control Section
The Dover Police Department employs one full time (civilian) Animal Control Officer
who is responsible for animal complaints within the city. The Animal Control Officer
sets non-injuring traps for stray cats and dogs when they can’t be captured. The
Animal Control Officer investigates properties for unsanitary, neglected or vicious
animals.
Página 244
Police Resources Manager
Ms. Robin Adkins is responsible for all department financial
management duties which includes all the daily details associated with
managing the department budget, grants and oversight/backup for the
other resource functions in the department. These functions include
fleet management, building maintenance and evidence. This position is
also part of the Police Staff.
Central Services Coordinator
Ms. Rhonda Figueroa is responsible for a wide range of duties in the
department including purchasing, fleet management and maintenance of
department equipment. She also supervises building maintenance and
evidence/photography personnel. In addition, Ms. Figueroa has been
managing our Mid-Atlantic Services custodial contract employees since
our building maintenance person resigned in March 2016.
Evidence Technician
Mr. Dean Anderson handles all duties associated with evidence
accountability which includes checking in/out, coordination of testing
with the different labs, conducting periodic inventories and disposal of
all evidence items. These tasks are extremely critical to maintaining the
department’s highly successful record for solving criminal cases in
court. Incumbents of this position are also required to meet basic
police training standards set by the Delaware Council on Police Training
and Mr. Anderson meets this standard as a retired police officer.
Building Maintenance
Although the position is currently vacant, it is responsible for the
coordination of the maintenance for all major building systems, minor
facility equipment repairs/replacement and oversight of custodial duties
which are currently contracted with Mid-Atlantic Services. Daily
cleaning of all areas in the building started in April 2016. Ms. Mary
Morton and Mr. Al Johnson currently perform most of these duties and
our building hasn’t been as clean in many years.
Página 245
Records Unit
The Records Unit consists of six civilian employees. The unit
is responsible for all documents generated by the Police
Department. These documents include all criminal reports,
arrest reports, traffic crash reports, traffic citations, and city
ordinance summons which are submitted to the Records Unit
for review, data input, storage, and archiving. The Dover
Police Records Unit is one of only three municipal police
agencies in the state who are authorized to directly input data
into the Delaware Justice Information System (DELJIS). In
addition, the Records Unit is tasked with processing and
verifying the department’s payroll prior to submitting it to the
City Finance Office.
Local Area Network Analyst
(LAN Analyst)
Christopher Menge and Paul Cookson serve as the
Department’s LAN Analysts. They are responsible for the
department’s computers, application software, servers and
related network infrastructure. The computer systems within
the department continue to present unique challenges due to
the enhanced security requirements imposed by state and
federal mandates governing the criminal justice community.
They also work closely with several state agencies to
implement and troubleshoot state-hosted systems that are
accessed by police employees.
These positions are also responsible for assisting with the
design, implementation and purchase of all items within the
department associated with computer technology. The LAN
Analysts are currently responsible for 81 desktop computers,
36 mobile data computers, 17 servers, 11 network printers
and various stand-alone peripherals.
Página 246
Victim Services Unit
Ms. Diane Glenn serves as the Department’s Victim Services Coordinator and provides
crime victims with professional assistance and support. Each crime victim and their
family are provided with a supportive environment to assist them through some very
difficult times and decisions in their lives. Our goal is to help lessen the trauma suffered
and provide support throughout the criminal justice process.
Services provided to crime victims and their families vary in each case depending upon
the needs of the individual. Services include: death notifications, crisis intervention,
referrals to community based services, criminal justice updates, court accompaniments,
assistance with filing for violent crime compensation through the state, as well as a host
of other services as needed in each particular case.
The Dover Police Department is committed to the fair, compassionate, and dignified
treatment of all crime victims. We continue to strive to improve and enhance all services
related to helping victims and survivors through such traumatic events.
Below is a statistical breakdown for services provided in 2016:
Página 247
Planning & Training Unit
The Planning and Training Unit is responsible for all aspects of training, recruitment, and
applicant testing. Planning and Training ensures that all sworn and civilian members of the
department receive training in compliance with the standards established by the Delaware
Council on Police Training (COPT), Departmental Policies, CALEA standards, and Federal
mandates. The Planning and Training Unit also provides training to outside agencies that request
assistance with their training needs. The unit is also responsible for all newly hired police
officers through their completion of the Field Training Program. Throughout the year, Planning
and Training participates in various job fairs in the local region in an effort to recruit qualified
and diverse applicants.
Major Training Accomplishments for 2016:
6 new police officers hired
5 new civilians hired
685.5 civilian training hours
14,296.25 sworn officer training hours
22 out of state training schools attended
3 Internships
388 ride along hours
Citizen Police Academy (28th class, 10-week program)
Página 248
Police Chaplains
The Department has two civilians holding the honorary rank of Captain in the position of Police Chaplain.
Pastor Jacob McCready joined the department in 2009 and Pastor Elmer Davis joined in 2015. The
Chaplains provide the blessings and benedictions at ceremonial functions. They also offer spiritual
guidance and advice to both sworn officers and civilian members of the department.
Pastor Jacob McCready giving Pastor Elmer Davis
the benediction at a recent
promotions and awards
ceremony,
Honor Guard & Dover Police and Fire Pipes and Drums
Dover Police Department’s Honor Guard is comprised of eight volunteer officers from
various units within the department. The Honor Guard is called upon for formal police
functions and ceremonies. The Police and Fire Pipes and Drums unit performs at various
parades, public events and promotions ceremonies.
Página 249
CALEA Accreditation
The Gold Standard in Public Safety
Crime Analyst/Accreditation Manager
The Crime Analyst/ Accreditation Manager has dual responsibilities. One of
the responsibilities is strategic crime analysis and assists with the planning
and deployment of resources to best combat crime. It also provides research
and analysis support to aid management in making a variety of key
decisions.
The responsibilities of the Accreditation Manager is to maintain and
organize the department’s many policies and procedures. The primary
function is to maintain and comply with the 484 standards which are
mandated by CALEA (Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement
Agencies) and the 105 standards mandated by DPAC (Delaware Police
Accreditation Commission). The Dover Police Department is one of only
eight departments in the State of Delaware to have the prestigious honor of
National Accreditation. The Dover Police Department recently completed
their sixth assessment and in March 2015 were selected by the
Commissioners of CALEA to receive re-accreditation, which is the Gold
Standard for Public Safety.
Página 250
MEDICATION RETURN BOX
The secured box, located in the Dover Police Department lobby, is
available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for the safe and secure disposal of
medications no longer needed. The box was given to the department by
the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators (NADDI) as
part of a program to combat prescription drug abuse, sponsored by Endo
Pharmaceuticals and Zogenix. The box allows for a safe and secure
drop-off location where any citizen can anonymously drop unused
medications for safe and proper disposal. The Dover Police Department
is grateful for the approval by NADDI and looks forward to future
success in reducing prescription drug abuse. During 2016, 1,342.7 lbs. of
miscellaneous prescription pills were removed from the medication return
box.
Página 251
CADET PROGRAM
The Dover Police Department continues with its police Cadet Program
consisting of nine Cadets who are assigned to the Special Enforcement
Unit as part time employees. Funding for this program is provided
through multiple grant sources.
Prior to being hired, each candidate was required to pass the same tests
as a potential Dover Police Officer which includes, a physical fitness
test, drug testing, an oral board and a background check. Each Cadet
was provided with 80 hours of training consisting of laws, equipment
usage, policies and procedures, geography, radio protocol and then an
additional 38 hours of supervised on the job training. After they
completed the training, they were released for duty and generally work in
pairs.
Cadets conduct high visibility patrols throughout the City of Dover
handling 850 complaints, issuing 475 city ordinances violations as well
as 1544 business contacts from January thru December of 2016. The
Cadets, who are not sworn Police Officers, conduct patrols on both foot
and bicycle and enforce local city ordinances. They also assist with
crowd control, traffic control and support services during major events in
the City. Cadets are also tasked with providing security services in the
Dover Public Library.
The Cadet Program has proved to be a valuable asset to the residents,
patrons and businesses owners of the City of Dover and we have
received positive feedback on the impact they are making in the
downtown Dover area.
.
Página 252
2016 OFFICER RETIREMENTS
Corporal Jeffery Welch
Página 253
2016
DOVER POLICE
ANNUAL
REPORT
Special Thanks to
Lt. Hermance
for the pictures included in this report.
Página 254
City of Dover, Delaware
Department of Planning and
Inspections & Recreation
2016 Annual Report
Planning, Inspections
& Recreation
Página 255
I. INTRODUCTION .....................................................................................................................................3
II. DIVISION REPORTS ............................................................................................................................... 3
Building Inspections ........................................................................................................................................................ 3
Fire Marshals............................................................................................................................................................... 4
Personnel……………………………………………..………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………... 5
Code Enforcement & Property Maintenance……………………………………………………………………………………………………..... 7
Licensing and Permitting……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 8
Planning Division……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….… 9
III. INITIATIVES AND ACCOMPLISHMENT……………………………………………………….…………………...10-11
Downtown Development District / Restoring Central Dover…………………………………………………… …….10
Comprehensive Plan Implementation .................................................................................................................…..….12
Major Development Projects…………………………………………………………………………………………… 13
Other Major Project Activities……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………... 14
IV. 2015 COMMITTEE REPORTS & PROGRESS IN PICTURES ……………………………………..15-18
Planning Commission..………………………………………………………………………………………….………19
Board of Adjustment………..…………………………………………………………………………………………...19
Historic District Commission……………………………………………………………………………………… 19-20
Recreation Division ………………………………………………………………………………………..…………...21
V. COMMISSION ACTIVITY ......................................................................................................................
Board of Adjustment ..........................................................................................................................................................
Historic District Commission……………………………………………………………………………………………...
Planning Commission Site Plan Applications……………………………………………………….………………...…
Miscellaneous Planning Applications……………………………………………………………….………..…………. .
Conditional Uses…………………………………………………………………………………….……………….. .......
Subdivisions…………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………....
Rezoning Applications………………………………………………………………………….…………………..……..
Unified Signs…………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………
2
Página 256
Planning, Inspections & Recreation
2016 Annual Report
Introduction
2016 was a busy year for the Departments of Parks & Recreation and Planning & Inspections. Dover’s eco-
nomic recovery strengthened significantly during 2016, and the Planning and Inspections Department saw
an increase in the number of permits issued, inspections performed, and new homes under construction. We
saw the former big boxes of Walmart and Kmart renovated and occupied with new businesses, and many
other signs of a growing local economy. Thanks to the efforts associated with the Downtown Development
District and Restoring Central Dover, new businesses have opened and new homes have been built in down-
town Dover.
In Planning Office and Parks and Recreation staff worked on completing a master plan for Schutte Park. A
public workshop was held at the park in July, and staff worked on completing a plan for presentation to City
Council in early 2017. The City’s soccer program continued to be strong, and we expanded out league offer-
ings. As in previous years, our summer concert series on The Green was a great success.
By all accounts, 2016 was a great year.!
Respectfully Submitted,
Ann Marie Townshend, AICP
Director of Planning & Community Development
Building Inspections
Staff: Mike McGr egor Building Inspector II; Gr eg Aker s, Chief
Building Inspector / Plans Examiner; and Chris Scott, Licensed Plumb-
ing / HVAC Inspector II.
New Construction, Renovations, Additions and Tenant Fit Outs: Mr.
Akers supervises construction inspectors, reviews construction docu-
ments and permits, meets with design professionals regarding construc-
tion projects and Dover’s permit process. Mr. McGregor reviews plans
and permits, performs inspections of commercial, residential and manu-
factured buildings. Mr. Scott’s responsibilities include plans review and
performance of plumbing and HVAC inspections for commercial and
residential buildings under construction. The combined efforts of all
staff resulted in the performance of 5,476 building inspections, 4,184
3
Página 257
plumbing/mechanical inspections and 148 C/O inspections this year. 2, 033 permits were issued in 2016.
Additional Duties: The Building Inspections staff assists in revitalizing existing structures through the
plans and permits process, responds to inquiries related to construction, assists in property damage assessment
after significant damage causing events occur, and enforces licensing of contractors and design professionals.
The team provides guidance, support and proper enforcement of the codes for construction and or repairs reg-
ulated by the Building and Life Safety Codes.
Summary Description: Building and Life Safety Codes address occupancy, structural strength, means of
egress, sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation, accessibility, energy conservation and life safety in regard
to new and existing buildings, facilities and systems. These issues are specific to structures and adjacent struc-
tures as they may relate.
Qualifications: Dover’s Building Inspectors are qualified via a combination of certifications and licenses.
Our inspectors are required to achieve or exceed 45 hours of training within 3 year time periods in order to
maintain their certifications. These qualifications combined with years of experience in both private and pub-
lic sectors places them among the best in the industry.
Fire Marshal’s Office
Staff: Pictured Left to Right;
Jason Osika , Fire Marshal
Vacancy, Deputy Fire Marshal / Inspector II
Matthew Brown, Deputy Fire Marshal / Inspector I
The Fire Marshal’s Office has a staffing level of 3 full time em-
ployees. The breakdown is the Fire Marshal and two Deputy Fire
Marshals which can hold the position of Inspector I or II. Current-
ly the office has one Inspector II and one Inspector I. This office
has had a vacancy since April due to Timothy Mullaney Jr. trans-
ferring to the Dover Police Department.
The Fire Marshal’s Office is responsible for conducting in-
spections annually in various occupancies such as audito-
rims, churches, club houses, theaters, restaurants that serve
alcohol or are 10,000 square feet or greater, bars, schools,
mercantile that is 10,000 square feet or greater, public office
buildings, hospitals, nursing homes, group homes, lodging
and rooming facilities, industrial, apartments, hotel and mo-
tels, daycares, and Code Purple facilities. The Fire Mar-
shal’s Office handles a variety of fire related complaints
such as over-crowding, blocked means of egress, fire lanes, and impaired fire protection. New fire suppression
systems (sprinklers), fire alarm systems, hood suppression systems, and other forms of fire protection are ac-
cepted into service by the Fire Marshal’s Office. The Fire Marshal’s Office is also part of the Certificate of Oc-
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cupancy approval process.
In addition to the inspection related responsibilities
the Fire Marshal’s Office is responsible for the inves-
tigation into origin and cause of fires and explosions
within the City of Dover. All employees of the office
are on an on call rotation for any after-hours fire or
life safety complaint received. All employees also
work special events such as race weekends, Firefly
(152 hours), and July 4th.
For the year 2016, the following is a breakdown of
activity for the office:
Annual Fire/Life Safety Inspections: 287
with 1,219 deficiencies 102 South Queen Street
Certificates of Occupancy Inspections /
Fire Protection Acceptances Tests; 181
Administrative walkthrough inspections;
202
Fire/Life Safety Complaints: 389
Plan Review: 132
Plan Review: 108 fire permits issued with
a total value of $27,246
Total of 65 Fire Investigations with a Total Fire
Loss of $1,813,355
Accidental: 41 with a total amount of $524,302
in damage.
Incendiary: 11 with a total amount of $962,451 in
damage. Arrest in conjunction with Dover Police
Department Total: 3
Undetermined: 13 with a total amount of
$326,602 in damage.
Subject Injured/Burned Investigations: Total of
10
Fire System Saves: 11
Fire Type Number Value of Loss
Accidental 59 $2,590,950
Incendiary 13 $48,301
Undetermined 13 $192,301
TOTAL 85 $2,831,552
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Personnel Changes
The continued dedication and professionalism of the staff of the Department of Planning, Inspections
and Recreation is a critical element in providing services to the community. These qualities allow staff
to successfully interact with the residents of our City and support continued community improvement.
There were a number of staffing changes within the Department during 2016. The change is as follows:
Angela Greenlee joined the Inspections Staff as an Office Assistant II on February 29, 2016.
Timothy Mullaney Jr. transferred to the Police Department on April 1, 2016.
Jake Shepherd was hired as a Inspector I in the Code Enforcement Office effective April 11,
2016.
Debbie Krueger transferred to the City Clerk’s Office as an Administrative Assistant on
April 22, 2016.
Courtney Kenton was hired as an Office Assistant in the Inspections Office effective June 20,
2016.
Jared Boesenberg last day with the City of Dover was June 23, 2016. Jared took on a posi-
tion with the Anne Arundel County, Maryland Fire Department.
Jason Osika was appointed as Fire Marshal effective September 14, 2016.
Phillip Lewis was hired as a Inspector I in the Code Enforcement Office effective November
28, 2016.
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Code Enforcement & Property Maintenance
Staff: Tim Tar aila, Inspector III/Code Enfor ce-
ment Supervisor; Ron Coburn, Inspector II/Vacant
Buildings; Jake Shepherd, Inspector I; Velvet Bowen,
Inspector I & Phillip Lewis, Inspector I. Brenda Brad-
ley worked part time in the spring of 2016 when Jared
Boesenberg, Inspector I, took on a position with the
Anne Arundel County, Maryland Fire Department.
The Code Enforcement Officers entered a total of
2,764 cases into the H.T.E. system with regard to vio-
Types of Inspections/Cases Entered
lations of the Dover Code of Ordinances and Zoning
Ordinance. Based on the data below demonstrating Annual Rental Housing Inspections 321
the reason for the inspections, more than 74 percent of
Property Maintenance Exterior 380
the cases are initiated by staff within the Department
of Planning and Inspections. This includes the Code Tall Grass and Weeds 595
Enforcement, Fire Marshal, Licensing and Planning
staff. Within these cases, 6,474 inspections were per- No Valid Business License 152
formed for code compliance. All cases entered must No Valid Building Permit
have an origination code, such as a citizen complaint 105
or an officer’s observation. Below is a breakdown of
the reasons for inspections, the number of inspections Unregistered Vehicles 54
performed by the Code Enforcement Staff, and a list of
Dover City Ordinances (Violations) 421
the different types of inspections conducted.
All Others 692
In addition, the Code Enforcement Officers conducted
another 376 inspections relating to Fence, Sign and Total 2,764
Building Permits. The Officers also assisted in the col-
lection of Itinerant Merchant Licenses during the two
NASCAR Race Operations conducted at the Dover
International Speedway.
Vacant Buildings:
Causes for Inspections
The Code Enforcement Officers registered a total of
228 buildings within the City limits of Dover and col- Citizen/Tenant complaint 510
lected $204,946.93 dollars in registration fees from the Electric Department Referral 122
vacant building program. Since the program began in
Other Agency Referral 90
Staff Initiated 2,042
TOTAL 2,764
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Demolished by the City: 518 Bay Road
325 N New Street Demolished by the Owner:
1124 Forrest Avenue 1032-1058 S Dupont Highway
1128 Forrest Avenue 18 N New Street
528 Bay Road 420 W Reed Street
139 Mitscher Road 200 N West Street
Repaired by Owner 14 Mishoe Street
45 S New Street 12 Mishoe Street
59 S Turnberry Drive 53 S New Street
941 Lincoln Street 20 N New Street
411 W Reed Street
104 S New Street
2007, a total of 1,681 structures have been registered as vacant. Currently, staff estimates that there are
approximately 300 of these structures still vacant.
Dangerous Buildings and Demolitions:
35 buildings or structures were active on the dangerous
building list. Of these, the following 19 structures were
either demolished by the City, came into code compli-
ance, or they were demolished by the owner of the
property.
Licensing and Permitting
Staff: Angie Gr eenlee, Office Assistant II, Cour tney
Kenton, Office Assistant II; and Kristen Mullaney, Li-
censing & Permitting Supervisor;
The Permit and Licensing staff is the first contact
most customers have with the Department of New Home Permits
Planning and Inspections and with the City of 2012-2016
Dover.
140
This staff is responsible for the receipt and pro- 120
cessing of all Permits, Business Licenses, Occu- 100
80
pancy Permits, and Rental Dwelling Permits.
60
These staff schedule all inspections performed 40
by the department, assist customers, and answer 20
inquires. They responded directly to questions 0
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
regarding all of the above and scheduled ap-
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pointments and meetings as required. The charts included are examples of just some of the important work
done by this staff. Their contributions to customer service are immeasurable. While much of their work
cannot be directly quantified, without their efforts, the Department could not function. They present a high
standard of prompt and courteous service.
Planning Office
Staff: Ann Mar ie Townshend, Dir ector of Planning & Community Development; Tr acey Har vey,
Planner I; William Cook, Planner I; Maretta Savage-Purnell, Secretary II; Dawn Melson-Williams, Principal
Planner, Eddie Diaz, Planner I.
The Planning Office coordinates the review and approval of all development applications within the City
and provides support to the Planning
Commission, Board of Adjustment, and
Historic District Commission. During
2016, the Planning Office processed 83
new applications and continued review on
applications that had been submitted in
previous years. Additionally, the Plan-
ning Office manages the City’s Commu-
nity Development Block Grant program.
Community Development
The Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) expands opportunities and housing choices
for low and moderate income persons living in Dover and protects the public health and welfare of Dover
citizens. It performs the following tasks:
Provides CDBG grants to sub-recipients that provide services to low/moderate income persons.
Provides rehabilitation assistance to sub-recipients who service low/moderate income persons.
Provides housing assistance to emergency shelters for the homeless.
Provides sub-recipient grants to community non-profit organizations for projects in the City.
The following projects were completed during the program year:
Homeownership Assistance Program—Throughout the year, three (3) families received a grant from
the City of Dover’s Homeownership Assistance Program and purchased affordable housing in the City.
Two of the homes purchased were located in the Downtown Development District.
Dover Interfaith Mission to the Homeless—CDBG funds were utilized to cover the operations costs
for the homeless shelter. Over 250 homeless men were serviced throughout the program year.
Milford Housing Homeowner Rehabilitation Program— CDBG funds were provided to fully reno-
vate and improve three (3) owner-occupied homes.
Milford Housing Emergency Repair Program—CDBG funds were provided to complete emergency
home repairs for eight (8) owner occupied homes eliminating health and safety hazards.
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Downtown Development District/Restoring Central Dover
On January 11, 2015 Dover received designation as a Downtown Development
District. Governor Markell formally announced that the cities of Dover, Seaford
and Wilmington were selected as the first Districts in Delaware with visits to each
community. There was a lot of progress in implementing the Downtown Develop-
ment District, particularly in the area of new housing downtown. The Planning
Office has actively participated in the Restoring Central Dover Steering Commit-
tee and four work groups. Through a Restoring Central Dover grant, along with
City funds, the City upgraded street lighting on South New Street between Loockerman and Division Streets.
Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity constructed two homes on North New Street and one home on South
Queen Street, in addition to completing the homes on South Kirkwood Street. Six new duplex homes got under
construction at the corner of Kirkwood and Reed Streets. NCALL began construction on a new home on North
Governor Avenue, and Milford Housing Development Corporation started construction on two homes on
South Kirkwood and South Queen Streets. In addition, property owners took advantage of Downtown Devel-
opment District grants and incentives to improve properties and open new businesses in downtown Dover.
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Special Studies & Projects
West Capital Cateway Plan: In November 2015, the City of Dover and the Dover /Kent County
MPO held a multi-day planning workshop to develop a plan for the Division Street/Forest Street corridor
from Saulsbury Road to State Street. During the first half of 2016, Whitman Requardt & Associates com-
pleted the plan document, which is posted on the Dover/Kent MPO website.
South Bradford Street Streetscape Enhancements Project - On January 12th, the City hosted a
DelDOT Public Workshop on the South Bradford Street Streetscape Enhancements project. The project to
improve sidewalks, lighting, and landscaping focuses on the blocks of South Bradford Street between
West Division Street and West Loockerman Street. The Historic District Commission was also briefed on
this project.
Plan4Health - The Plan4Health Charrette: Dover Health Planning Week was held June 13-15, 2016 to
gather information and ideas on planning for a healthy living in Dover. A series of open house events
were hosted in the Community Room of Bayard Plaza in Downtown Dover. See www.deplan4health.org.
Information developed by this effort will inform the City’s next Comprehensive Plan.
Downtown Parking Study – In October, Planning Office Staff began assisting in the preparation for the
upcoming data collection effort on parking space usage in the central Downtown area as associated with a
Downtown Parking Study. November 29th began the data collection fieldwork and continued on Decem-
ber 8th. The study is being prepared by a consultant and is funded by the Dover/Kent County MPO. It is
expected to be complete by mid-2017.
Senator Bikeway— Planning for the Senator Bikeway, a low stress bicycle route to travel east/west
across the City from the Dover High School to Route 13, got underway with the support and leadership of
DelDOT and Dover’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Subcommittee. Design work and public outreach began for
the improvements associated with the first phase of the project, from Saulsbury Road to West Street.
Non-Conforming Uses in Residential Districts - The Planning Office was dir ected by City Council
to study “Non-conforming Uses” in the residential districts and prepare recommendations for an appeal
process and to identify non-compliant uses (MI-16-13). Staff worked to develop the methods for the study
of “Non-conforming Uses” including use of a mobile GIS application for data collection to identify non-
compliant uses. During Summer 2016, Planning Office utilized a Staff developed mobile GIS application
for data collection to identify non-compliant uses in specific residential zones. The first set of Notification
Letters was sent on August 24, 2016 to nine properties found by the study to be non-residential uses with-
in residential zones. The letters were to notify property owners of their non-conforming use status and to
give them the opportunity to discuss options for compliance with Planning Staff prior to the December 31,
2016 sunsetting of nonconforming uses. In Fall 2016, a number of the affected property owners contacted
Staff to discuss their non-conforming use status with many initiating steps to become compliant. Depend-
ing on the situation, steps towards compliance involved the documentation of use/activity approvals, the
submission of Minor Lot Line Adjustment Plans and the submission of Rezoning applications. A second
round of Notification Letters will be sent in 2017 for the next set of properties identified as “Non-
conforming Uses” in residential districts.
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Comprehensive Plan Implementation Activities
The Planning Office is responsible for developing ordinances and other activities to implement the City’s
2008 Comprehensive Plan. In this regard, the following projects were priorities of Planning Staff in 2016.
Comprehensive Plan Amendments 2016 - The annual pr ocedur e for consider ation of amendments
to the 2008 Comprehensive Plan started with filing of requests in December 2015 and proceeded through
the Preliminary Land Use Services Review (PLUS) and Planning Commission hearing and review for rec-
ommendation in early 2016. On March 14, 2016, the City Council approved the set of Comprehensive
Plan Amendments 2016. The Comprehensive Plan Amendments approved were a series of amendments to
the Map 12-1: Land Development Plan Map to revise the Land Use Classifications of specific properties.
The approved amendments include changes to the Land Use Classifications for the following properties:
Lands of Kesselring Company, LLC at 37.2 acres near New Burton Road (1436 New Burton Road);
Lands of Braun at 834 South State Street; and the staff initiated request for the Lands of Dover Interna-
tional Speedway (Woodlands area) at 75 Pit Stop Lane and 599 Persimmon Tree Lane (MI-16-01A, B, C).
In accordance with the approved procedure for annual amendments to the Comprehensive Plan, no new
requests were received in December 2016.
Bicycle & Pedestrian Planning – The Planning Office participates in the monthly meetings of the Bicy-
cle & Pedestrian Sub-Committee. In 2016, Staff is part of the working group for the Dover/Kent County
MPO Regional Bicycle Plan Update project.
Delaware Population Consortium - Planning Staff continued to attend the Delaware Population Consor-
tium (DPC) meetings. The Consortium reviews population and demographic information in preparation to
provide 30-year population and employment projections for the State, counties, and selected municipali-
ties including the City of Dover. At the DPC Annual Meeting on October 27th, the Consortium adopted
yearly population projections and the Population Projection Series. The DPC estimate the City of Dover
total population at 37,569 people (as of July 1, 2016). See entire DPC population projections document at
http://stateplanning.delaware.gov/information/dpc_projections.shtml
Dover International Speedway Annexation - Over 250 acres of land owned by Dover International
Speedway Inc. was annexed into the City of Dover on May 9, 2016; this is the largest land annexation
since the 2006 annexation of the Lands of Carey which became the new Dover High School. The land
annexed is located east of State Route 1 in the vicinity of Leipsic Road and Persimmon Tree Lane and also
the property at 1229 Persimmon Tree Lane. (Application AX-16-03) This annexation brings The Wood-
lands area (festival lands) into one jurisdiction.
Schutte Park Master Planning - Planning Staff assisted in developing conceptual plans for improve-
ments to the recreational amenities at Schutte Park. The Parks & Recreation Department with assistance
from the Planning Office held a Public Workshop on July 20, 2016 to gather input on design ideas to best
utilize the multifunctional community park. Presentation boards of the design concepts were on view out-
side of the John W. Pitts Recreation Center. Planning Staff continued to refine the park design plan. A
presentation of the Schutte Park Master Plan will occur in 2017.
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Ordinance Amendments: Research and Development
A number of text amendments to the Zoning Ordinance occurred in 2016. The process of text amend-
ment and ordinance development and adoption involves research by the Planning Staff, consultation with
stakeholders on specific topics, review by City Council Committees and then formal review and public
hearings by the Planning Commission (for recommendation) and City Council (final action). See sum-
mary table as follows for 2016 activity. The research and ordinance development project related to
“Manufacturing Housing” was the major research project. In 2016, Planning Staff was also researching
the topics of residential zoning districts and the supplementary regulations for the development of future
ordinance amendments.
Major Projects and Construction Activity
Residential Activity
A number of existing subdivisions saw renewed efforts for house construction. Activity includes dwellings in Not-
tingham Meadows, Clearview Meadows, Senators Lake, Seskinore, Village of Westover Phase VI, and Village of
Cannon Mill. These developments include mixes of one family detach dwellings, duplexes, and townhouses. In
October, construction for the first three townhouse units began in Chestnut Grove Farms, a new residential devel-
opment on the south side of Chestnut Grove Road. In November, permits were issued for a series of six (6) duplex
units on West Reed Street within the Downtown Development District area (C-16-03).
Construction activities also continued in 2016 at several multi-family residential projects including the Leander
Lakes Apartments project south of Forrest Avenue/Route 8 (S-12-18); the redevelopment of Walker Woods as the
Village of McKee Branch (S-13-18); the re-start of construction at the Tall Pines project at 1655 and 1665 Kenton
Road (S-14-18); and the first building of Phase 2 at the Blue Hen Apartments Complex (S-15-12). Certificates of
Occupancy were issued to the first apartment building (24 units) in Leander Lakes Apartments in July and by
years end a total of 3 buildings and the Clubhouse were occupied in the complex. Also over the year, the redevel-
opment of the dwelling units at the Village of McKee Branch was completed.
The summer of 2016 saw the start of construction for a new community center building and renovations to the
apartment buildings at Whatcoat Village on Whatcoat Drive (S-16-05) and the construction of the new Apartment
Building 4 at The Grande: Planned Neighborhood Design – Senior Citizen Housing Option (C-15-04).
Eden Hill Farm TND
In June, construction activities for site work and infrastructure improvements began for the Neighborhood Com-
mercial District of the Eden Hill Farm Traditional Neighborhood District project and the Building Permit for
Commercial Building 5 was issued in September (S-16-08). In November, the foundation permit was issued for
construction of the next building in the Eden Hill Farm TND: Professional Office, Medical & Financial District.
This Phase 2 Building (Building 4) is a Skilled Nursing Facility (S-16-16) to be located at 300 Banning Street.
Other Construction Activities
Dover Town Center: The project S-15-14 Redevelopment of old Walmart site at 1574 North DuPont Highway
continued with construction a multi-tenant commercial pad site building. In the main building, a number of tenant
fit-outs were completed for Five Below, Petco, and Ulta. Construction was complete in September for the Outback
Restaurant building.
Mission BBQ Restaurant: In April, construction activities began for renovations at 365 North DuPont Highway
(previous Lonestar Restaurant) for the Mission BBQ Restaurant.
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Capital Commons: Construction activities began in May for the renovations of the building at 515 North
DuPont Highway (old Kmart location) consisting of the tenant fit-outs for Burlington and Big Lots. With
this project known as Capital Commons, a series of site improvements includes parking lot reconfiguration,
entrance reconfiguration, sidewalks/multi-use paths, and landscaping to occur under Site Plan S-16-02.
These new retail stores opened in late September. Two pad sites at the property are opportunities for future
development.
Kraft-Heinz: Construction activities occurred at the Kraft-Heinz facility for a new breadcrumb production
line. This entailed conversion of a previous warehouse building on-site.
Creekstone Development: Construction is underway on the new office building at Creekstone Develop-
ment on South Governors Avenue (S-15-14). This is the next phase of development.
Dover Behavioral Health: In June, permits were issued to begin construction of a building addition at Do-
ver Behavioral Health on Horsepond Road (S-16-04). This will increase the number of beds at the facility.
Phase 2 of the expansion project (for 8 beds) began in September (S-16-10).
Islamic Society of Central Delaware Building: Permits were issued to begin construction of the public as-
sembly building for the Islamic Society of Central Delaware on South Little Creek Road (S-15-03).
Chesapeake Utilities Dover Campus: In August, permits were issued to begin infrastructure and site work
for the Chesapeake Utilities Dover Campus at Northgate Center Lot 6 on Krisko Circle (S-16-11). The start
of building construction of a headquarters office building, warehouse, and truck shade canopy followed.
Dover Family Dental Office: A Final Certificate of Occupancy was issued to the Dover Family Dental Of-
fice at 1084 South State Street. (S-14-16)
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Permits Issued, 2012-2016
Permit Inspections 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Construction 772 1,039 1,027 1,083 1,135
Plumbing / Mechanical 713 623 591 745 975
Fire Prevention / Life Safety 81 121 82 134 108
Totals 1,566 1,783 1,699 1,962 2,218
Business Licenses Issued 2012-2016
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2016: Welcome to Dover!
Progress in Pictures
Starbucks Ulta Beauty
Pet Valu
111 West Sheldrake
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2016: Welcome to Dover!
Progress in Pictures
Petco
Harmony Lane
Five Below
122
Mourning
Dove Lane
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Boards and Commissions
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission consists of nine Planning Commission Applications 2016
Annexations, 3
members with Fred Tolbert as Chairman and
Unified Sign, 4
Kathleen Welsh as Vice-Chairman. The Plan-
Site Plans, 15
ning Commission met all twelve months in
2016 and reviewed a total of 47 applications, Rezoning, 7
including 4 Administrative Site Plans requir-
ing waiver approval. The Site Plans reviewed
by the Planning Commission included the re-
vitalization of the old K-Mart site as Capital Conditional Uses,
5 Miscellaneous, 9
Commons, a resubmission of The Arbors Sen- Subdivisions, 0
ior Garden Apartments, the Chesapeake Utili-
ties Dover Campus at Northgate Center, a LIDL grocery store, additions to the Department of Public Works
work yard at Schutte Park, two mixed use buildings on the former Loockerman Way, and the redevelopment
of Liberty Court Apartments. The Conditional Use applications include a set of three duplexes at the site of
the old Square Club and a clubhouse and pool for The Grande Apartments. The Planning Commission made
recommendation to City Council on seven re-
zoning applications, including two connected Board of Adjustment Applications 2016
with the Planning Office’s Council-ordered pro-
Deni ed Appeal s ,
ject to sunset Nonconforming Uses in residential 1
zones. There were no applications for subdivi-
sion in 2016. There were a total of 14 applica-
tions that were submitted to the Planning Office Vari
Wi thdrawn
ances , 2
for administrative review, including 9 Site Plans Approved
Vari ances , 12
and 5 Minor Lot Line Adjustment Plans. One
Minor Lot Line Adjustment Plan was also in Deni ed
Vari ances , 1
connection with the Nonconforming Use Pro-
ject.
Board of Adjustment
The Planning Office received 16 applications to the Board of Adjustment in 2016. Fifteen of the applications
were for variances, and one was for an appeal. The appeal was denied, twelve variances were approved, and
one variance was denied. One area variance was withdrawn. One use variance applications was withdrawn
after Planning Staff issued a code interpretation that the subject nonconformity had not lapsed and the vari-
ance was not needed. One approved variance went to the Board of Adjustment a second time after changes to
the plan and received reapproval.
Historic District Commission
The City of Dover, Delaware Historic District Commission consists of five members. The members during
2016 include Chazz Salkin (member through July), Eric Czerwinski (new member appointed in July), Ann
Baker Horsey, Terry Jackson, Joe McDaniel, and Col. Dick Scrafford. During early 2016 Chazz Salkin
served as Chairman and Joe McDaniel in served as Vice-Chairman. Upon Mr. Salkin completing his term of
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service, a special election was held to fill the Chairman vacancy in August 2016 with Joe McDaniel being
elected as Chairman and Ann Horsey as Vice-Chairman. At the Commission’s Annual Meeting in November
2016, Joe McDaniel was elected as Chairman and Ann Horsey as Vice-Chairman.
The Historic District Commission held eight meetings in 2016. The Historic District Commission reviewed six
(6) applications for Architectural Review Certificates or as informational items in 2016. This included the re-
ferral of a Sign Permit involved The Depot at 595 Forest Street (HI-16-04). Architectural Review Certification
was granted with conditions to a project to replace a garage with a new carriage house building at 2 Kings
Highway NE (HI-16-02). The Historic District Commission recommended approval with conditions of the Ar-
chitectural Review Certification for a mixed-use project at 126 West Loockerman Street (Loockerman Way)
for construction of a three story commercial/apartment building and a four story commercial/apartment build-
ing (HI-16-05); the Planning Commission granted the final approval of the Certification in conjunction with
the Site Plan review of the project. Informational items included a presentation on Lighting Upgrades in the
Capitol Complex area (HI-16-01) and a presentation on a concept for uniformly design “Open” Flags for
Downtown Businesses (HI-16-06).
Of the forty-nine (49) permits in the Historic District in 2016, a total of thirty-two (32) permits required Archi-
tectural Review Certification review for such projects as signs, temporary signs, roof replacements, and exteri-
or finish/siding/trimwork renovations.
The construction activities in the Historic District involved renovations to existing historic buildings. Follow-
ing exterior renovations, the building at 150 South Governors Avenue will reopen as the retail shop BluVin-
tage. The Century Club Building at 40 The Green underwent a series of exterior repairs to repoint its brick fa-
çade, woodwork repairs and painting of the entrance canopy, and gutter/downspout system replacement. Like-
wise, exterior work at the serpentine stone office building at 2 North State Street involved work repairs, paint-
ing, and masonry repairs. With the application procedure changes to the Tax Credit for Historic Properties pro-
gram (adopted February 23, 2015 with Ordinance #2015-03), the administrative review by Staff notes that
there are three projects underway in 2016 that intend to utilize this program.
Permits Reviewed for
Architectural Review Certification
2016
1
15 Building Permits R eviewed
by Staff
Building Permits R eviewed
by HD C
Sign Permits Reviewed by
Staff
29
Sign Permits Reviewed by
HD C
4
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City of Dover
Annual Report 2016
Parks & Recreation
2016 Annual Report
Parks & Recreation Highlights Check out our
Mallard Pond Improve- gether, we are offering
stats...
ing to offer path appro-
ments hosting a public priate bollard lighting. the Dover community an
workshop in the Mallard 44,632 patrons & visitors were
affordable and fun recre-
recorded in the John W. Pitts
Pond Park area gave us Youth Soccer League ational soccer program Recreation Center
the opportunity to have has become a new staple that’s hard to beat!
the surrounding resi- program for the depart-
dents ment. Following a suc- Girls verses Boys par- 3,500 (approx.) adults & youth
offer cessful first season, staff ticipation in our 2016 participated in our basketball,
what field hockey, lacrosse, softball
worked to bring a Friday winter sports programs and volleyball leagues
they night soccer league in- is something to be noted.
would side during the winter We offered basketball, 2016 Revenues
like to see for play- months. Many of our field hockey, soccer, and
ground equipment and outside families came $97,970 Leagues
lacrosse. When tallying
where the multiuse path $16,870 General Recreation
how many boys partici-
would fit best. With $ 6,740 Field/Building Rentals
their input, staff worked pate verses how many
to have new playground girls participated, staff $ 7,550 Trips
equipment installed and noted 697 girls signed $ 7,470 Sports
the multiuse path was up for our programs and $41,530 Camps
inside with us, too. 314 boys were regis- $55,000 Youth Connections &
Scheduling the Spring tered during the same
Camp Small Wonder
and Fall 2016 Youth Soc- timeframe.
cer Leagues came full
circle with the partner- Top Left Picture: Dover Walks
ships of Holy Cross and
laid out. We were able the YMCA of Dover. To-
A young mom, with her grandmother
make their way around the indoor
to find additional fund- track. Our Dover Walks program
welcomes young & mature citizens
alike to enjoy our safe indoor track.
Community Outreach Those looking for a climate con-
trolled environment, the John W Pitts
Recreation Center is the place to be
Bicycle/Pedestrian Subcom- ing pretty well in their age Silver Lake Commission came on weekday mornings.
mittee was hard at it in 2016. groups! The Fit For the First together in 2016 to coordinate
Working on walking & biking State Bike Rack contest is with the DNREC and the Public 2016 Dover Duathlon
topics throughout the year. In moved in the right direction. Works staff to offer solutions 71 athletes made up
April, the inaugural Dover Du- With a grant from the Restoring to issues we are facing in Silver the 1st Dover Duath-
athlon consisting of a 1.5 mi. Central Dover Committee, the Lake Park throughout the year. lon. Our youngest
athlete at 20 did pretty
run/ 8.5 mi. bike / 1.5 mi. run first bike rack has been commis- A lake draw down was per- good, but our 69 year
brought new folks into our Do- sioned from MasterCraft of formed in October 2016 that old did fantastic!
ver Park location with good Camden. We are anticipating was successful in lowering the
feedback. We are bringing this installation in May of 2017 at lake water level for a short time
back in April 2017. Fun fact: the Dover Public Library. allowing folks to make dock
Ann Marie Townshend and repairs and clean up their
Andy Siegel participated finish- shorelines.
Página 274
Ann Marie Townshend, Director
Full Time Employees
Carolyn Courtney (16 years of service)
Peggy O’Brien (18 years of service)
Steve Pickering (20 years of service)
Sherwanda Speaks (21 years of service)
Wayne Voshell (15 years of service)
Complimenting with
4 Part Time Employees
20 Seasonal/Temporary
The Parks & Recreation division is
responsible for the John W. Pitts
Recreation Center, a variety of indoor
& outdoor sports leagues for youth
and adults, fitness programs, spring
break and summer camps, an
afterschool program at Towne Point
Elementary school, bus trips and fun
activities for youth and their families at
affordable rates and schedules to
meet the needs of the City of Dover
and surrounding areas.
Other really cool stuff to talk about...
Spring & Summer Performing Arts Series summer of 2016. Eddie Diaz, planner them know they are not alone, some-
In its 40th year, the worked with the Parks & Recreation one will be there to help with their
2016 schedule pro- staff to devise a concepts to for public homework, tutoring and developing
vided free family presentation. With the public work- life skills that they can carry with them
style entertainment, shops we were able as they grow. This year, staff intro-
yet, remained affordable to the city,
to narrow down to duced a
with sponsorships from Eden Hill Medi-
cal Center, Chesapeake Utilities and what is most widely children’s
the YMCA of Dover. Their support was wanted by our cus- yoga pro-
a large part of the success, as we noted tomers and match gram.
approximately 3,400 spectators for the the staff’s program- Fitness
season!
ming goals. The plan went to Council in instructor Susan Albanese was able to
Facility Rental Permits keep us busy February of 2017. provide age appropriate yoga to this
throughout the year. In 2016, we 160 group of eager group of youngsters.
pavilion permits, 63 field/park permits Youth Connections after school pro- The feedback from the kids has been
in addition to rental permits for the gram for targeted youth grew to more fantastic. They really seem to enjoy the
Pitts Recreation Center’s gym and mul- than 70 children in 2016. The need to
tipurpose rooms. yoga and our staff says it helps with
find safe and affordable after school their behavior and ability to focus on
Schutte Park Master Plan care for these impressionable elemen- their goals while in the program.
Public meetings were held over the tary age students is crucial to letting
Página 275
UNIFIED SIGNS 2016
File # Applicant Location Type Action Date
PC Approval & Final
US‐16‐01 DTCC Banner Program 100 Campus Dr Banners/Temp Signs 3/21/2016
Approval
PC Approval w/conditions 3/21/2016
US‐16‐02 Winner Ford 591 S DuPont Hwy Comprehensive Sign Plan
Final Approval 5/26/2016
Comprehensive Sign Plan PC Approval & Final
US‐16‐03 Outback Steakhouse 1574 N DuPont Hwy 7/18/2016
Amendment Approval
Creekstone Development 1198 S Governors PC Approval & Final
US‐16‐04 Comprehensive Sign Plan 10/17/2016
LLC Avenue Approval
Página 276
SITE PLANS 2016
Bldg Sq Ft
File # Plan Name Location Description Review Type DU Action
(new)
S‐16‐01 Enterprise Office Building 285 Beiser Blvd Office Building PC Review 43,700 Conditional Approval by PC 2/16/2016
505 and 515 N Dupont Retail Shopping Conditional Approval by PC 2/16/2016
S‐16‐02 Capital Commons PC Review 96,959
Hwy Center Final Approval 5/31/2016
Serendra Apartment Adminstrative Administrative Review (Filed) 1/5/2016
S‐16‐03 762 & 764 S State St Apartments 0 4
Building Review PC Waiver Approval 5/16/2016
Administrative Review (Filed) 2/1/2016
Dover Behavioral Health Mental Health Facility Adminstrative
S‐16‐04 725 Horsepond Rd 1,371 PC Waiver Approval 3/21/2016
Building Addition Phase I (addition) Review
Final Approval 6/9/2016
Whatcoat Apartments New Adminstrative Administrative Review (Filed) 2/5/2016
S‐16‐05 992 Whatcoat Dr Community Building 2,635
Community Building Review Final Approval 7/20/2016
Place of Worship Conditional Approval by PC 3/21/2016
Grace Presbyterian Church PC Review
S‐16‐06 350 McKee Rd (Master Plan of 20,857 Final Approval 12/8/2016
Master Plan (Master Plan)
additions) Approval of Amendment #1 1/3/2017
Conditional Approval by PC 3/21/2016
The Arbors Senior Garden
S‐16‐07 1051 College Rd Apartments PC Review 55,350 48 PC informational review of
Apartments
revised plan 9/19/2016
Eden Hill Farm TND
Adminstrative Administrative Review (Filed) 2/9/2016
S‐16‐08 Commercial District Phase I: 201 Towne Centre Dr Commercial (TND) 17,930
Review Final Approval 6/23/2016
Building 5
Wayneicka Johnson Family Adminstrative Administrative Review (Filed) 3/2/2016
S‐16‐09 118 Roosevelt Ave Large Family Day Care 0
Child Care Review Final Approval 3/10/2016
Dover Behavioral Health Mental Health Facility Conditional Approval by PC 4/18/2016
S‐16‐10 725 Horsepond Rd PC Review 10,629
Building Addition Phase II (addition) Final Approval 8/30/2016
Chesapeake Utilities Dover Conditional Approval by PC 4/18/2016
Office, Warehouse,
S‐16‐11 Campus: Northgate Center 500 Krisko Cir PC Review 92,000 Record Plan Approval 8/26/2016
Storage
Lot 6 Final Approval 8/10/2016
Conditional Approval by PC 5/16/2016
S‐16‐12 1 S Bradford St Parking Lot 1 South Bradford St Parking Lot PC Review 0
Final Approval 6/7/2016
Retail and Office Withdrawn 7/18/2016
S‐16‐13 Dunkin Donuts 1124‐1128 Forrest Ave PC Review 34,813
Center Conditional Approval by PC 11/21/2016
122, 136, 140, & 162 N
S‐16‐14 LIDL Grocery Store DuPont Hwy; 321 Grocery Store PC Review 36,185 Conditional Approval by PC 7/18/2016
Kings Hwy NE
Administrative Review (Filed) 6/29/2016
Administrative
S‐16‐15 Family Dental Associates 385 Saulsbury Rd Parking Lot 0 PC Waiver Approval 7/18/2016
Review
Final Approval 12/22/2016
Eden Hill Farm TND‐Prof Ofc
Administrative Administrative Review (Filed) 7/15/2016
S‐16‐16 Medical Financial District: 300 Banning St Skilled Nursing Facility 65,000
Review Final Approval 11/15/2016
Phase 2 Bldg 4
S‐16‐17 Parking Lot 623 Fulton St Parking Lot PC Review 0 Conditional Approval by PC 9/19/2016
Loockerman Way
126 West Loockerman Commercial/Apartme PC Review
S‐16‐18 Redevelopment: Two Mixed 54,232 20 Conditional Approval by PC 9/19/2016
St nt Buildings (Master Plan)
Use Buildings
Schutte Park Public Works
S‐16‐19 Electric Ave Work Yard (addition) PC Review 7,885 Conditional Approval by PC 9/19/2016
Yard
Busy Bees Learning Center‐ Administrative Administrative Review (Filed) 9/1/2016
S‐16‐20 77 Lynnhaven Dr Large Family Daycare 0
Tyra CEO Jones Review Final Approval 9/7/2016
Administrative Review (Filed) 9/19/2016
Administrative
S‐16‐21 Lands of Michael Braun 834 S State St Office (conversion) 1,600 PC Waiver Approval 11/22/2016
Review
Final Approval 1/30/2017
Conditional Approval by PC 11/21/2016
Redevelopment of Liberty Apartments
S‐16‐22 1289 Walker Rd PC Review 112,808 100 CC Approval of Emergency
Court Apartments (Redevelopment)
Rear Access Waiver Request 12/12/2016
Conditional Approval by PC 11/21/2016
Restaurant with Drive‐
S‐16‐23 Panera Restaurant 545 N DuPont Hwy PC Review 4,986 PC Informational Review of
through
Revised Plan and Architecture 1/17/2017
Office/Light
S‐16‐24 Advantech at GOTP Lot #13 151 Garrison Oak Dr PC Review 15,945 Conditional Approval by PC 11/21/2016
Manufacturing
Página 277
REZONINGS 2016
File # Applicant Location From To Acres Action Date
CC First Reading 12/14/2015
Lands of Halpern Family PC Recommended Approval 1/19/2016
Z‐16‐01 1042 S Bradford St R‐8 C‐1A 0.05
Properties CC Deferral 2/8/2016
Withdrawn 2/22/2016
CC First Reading 1/25/2016
Lands of Kesselring Company
Z‐16‐02 1436 New Burton Rd R‐20 IPM 37.2 PC Recommended Approval 2/16/2016
LLC
CC Approval 3/14/2016
CC First Reading 1/25/2016
Micromotor Equipment
Z‐16‐03 834 S State St R‐8 CPO 0.39 PC Recommended Approval 2/16/2016
Company LLC Michael Braun
CC Approval 3/14/2016
CC First Reading 3/28/2016
Lands of Dover International
Z‐16‐04 1131 N DuPont Hwy CPO, R‐8, MHP, A RC 291.07 PC Recommended Approval 4/18/2016
Speedway
CC Approval 5/9/2016
CC First Reading 9/26/2016
Z‐16‐05 Lands of John & Carla Russum 51 Roosevelt Ave R‐8 C‐1 0.18 PC Recommended Approval 10/17/2016
CC Approval 11/14/2016
CC First Reading 10/24/2016
Z‐16‐06 Lands of Capital Grange S Bradford St R‐8 RG‐1 0.32 PC Recommended Approval 11/21/2016
CC Approval 12/12/2016
CC First Reading 11/28/2016
Z‐16‐07 Kays Property on McKee Road West side of McKee Rd CPO IO 4.35 PC Recommended Approval 12/19/2016
CC Approval 1/9/2017
Página 278
MISCELLANEOUS 2016
File # Plan Name Location/Topic Type Ordinance Action Date
Kesselring property/ 834 South State Comprehensive Plan CC First Reading 1/25/2016
2016 Comprehensive Plan
MI‐16‐01 Street/The Woodlands Area‐ Requests for Amendments: Map 12‐1 Land 2016‐02 PC Recommends approval 2/16/2016
Amendment
Land Use Classification Change on Map 12‐1 Development Plan CC Approval 3/14/2016
CC First Reading 2/22/2016
Text Amendment: Keeping Domestic Zoning Ordinance Article 3
MI‐16‐02 Residential Zones 2016‐01 PC Recommends approval 3/21/2016
Animals (fowl) Section 1.15
CC Approval 4/11/2016
Lands of Matmo LLC Minor Lot Line Administrative Review (filed) 2/2/2016
MI‐16‐03 419 & 423 Webbs Ln Minor Lot Line Adjustment Plan N/A
Adjustment Final Approval 4/7/2016
LFA Committee Introduction 3/15/2016
Text Amendment: Removal of
Zoning Ordinance Article 6 CC First Reading 3/28/2016
MI‐16‐04 Duplex from provisions of Article 6 Parking Regulations for Multiple Dwellings 2016‐14
Section 5.3 PC Recommends approval 4/18/2016
Section 5.3
CC approval 5/9/2016
Dover Code of Ordinances SAT Committee Introduction 3/29/2016
Text Amendments: Speed Bumps, Chapter 98; Land Subdivision CC First Reading 4/11/2016
MI‐16‐05 N/A 2016‐09
Speed Cushions, and Speed Humps Regulations Article IV.A; Zoning PC Recommends approval 5/16/2016
Ordinance Article 10 Section 2.54 CC approval 6/13/2016
SAT Committee recommends starting abandonment process
4/26/2016
CC approves start of abandonment process
5/9/2016
CC approves partial waiver of abandonment process
Resolutions 6/27/2016
Abandonment of Topaz Circle Stub Abandonment of improved street PC Recommends against abandonment
MI‐16‐06 Topaz Cir 2016‐10 and 7/18/2016
Street‐Emerald Pointe and right of way Utility Committee/CCOW consideration of PC
2016‐08 8/9/2016
Recommendation
8/22/2016
CC consideration of Utility Committee Report
9/12/2016
CC Final Action: Approval
Clearview Meadows, south side of Nob Hill
Clearview Meadows PND: Lots 213‐ Rd between JH Brown Blvd and Lady Bug Dr Minor Lot Line Adjustment Plan & PC Conditional Approval 6/20/2016
MI‐16‐07 N/A
265 Minor Lot Line Adjustment and north side of Lady Bug Dr between JH Revised Bulk Standards Final Approval 8/12/2016
Brown Blvd and Nob Hill Rd
Bethuel Seventh Day Adventist
MI‐16‐08 19, 25, 27, & 29 North Queen St Minor Lot Line Adjustment Plan N/A Administrative Review (filed) 5/18/2016
Church Parcel Consolidation
Sketch Plan for 90 Saulsbury Road,
Sketch Plan of PND‐SCHO for City
MI‐16‐09 The Grande PND‐SCHO clubhouse & 90 Saulsbury Rd CC Forwards Plan to Planning Commission for review 6/13/2016
Council Review
Pool
LFA Committee Introduction 6/14/2016
Dover Code of Ordinances
Text Amendments: Manufactured CC First Reading 6/27/2016
MI‐16‐10 Citywide; renames MHP zone as MH zone Chapters 26, 50, 102, 106, 110, F, 2016‐16
Homes Ordinance #2016‐16 PC Recommends Approval 7/18/2016
Zoning Ordinance
CC approval 8/8/2016
Information File On Collector ‐
Dover Mall/Dover Downs/Delaware State
MI‐16‐11 Distributor Road Modification to Info File N/A Presentation to SAT Committee/CCOW 6/28/2016
University area
Scarborough Road Interchange
PRCE Committee Introduction 7/12/2016
Zoning Ordinance Article 3 CC First Reading 7/25/2016
MI‐16‐12 Text Amendment: Height in COZ‐1 Corridor Overlay Zone 2016‐18
Section 27.66 PC Recommends approval 8/15/2016
CC Tabled 9/12/2016
MI‐16‐13 Nonconforming Uses Residential Zones Council order N/A First Notice to property owners sent 8/24/2016
St. John Lutheran Church Parcel Minor Lot Line Adjustment Plan Administrative Review (filed) 9/26/2016
MI‐16‐14 105 & 109 Lotus St N/A
Consolidation related to MI‐16‐13 (fee waived) Final Approval 10/6/2016
LFA Committee/CCOW Introduction 10/11/2016
Text Amendment: Temporary Uses in Zoning Ordinance, Article 3
MI‐16‐15 Airport Environs Overlay Zone 2016‐24 CC First Reading Deferred 10/24/2016
AEOZ Section 22.4 (C )
Withdrawn 11/28/2016
1596 S DuPont Hwy; 1403, 1411, 1417 S Administrative Review (filed) 10/28/2016
MI‐16‐16 Wendy's Parcel Consolidation Minor Lot Line Adjustment Plan N/A
Governors Ave Final Approval 11/2/2016
LFA Committee/CCOW Introduction 11/15/2016
Text Amendment: Tractor Trailer Zoning Ordinance, Article 6 CC First Reading 11/28/2016
MI‐16‐17 Parking Regulations 2016‐25
Parking Section 6 and A PC Recommends Denial 12/19/2016
CC Denial 1/9/2017
Habitat for Humanity Parcel Administrative Review (Filed) 11/7/2016
MI‐16‐18 14, 16, 18 S Queen Street Minor Lot Line Adjustment Plan N/A
Consolidation Final Approval 12/6/2016
Summary of Building Permits issued, Development
Report to Office of State Planning
MI‐16‐19 Municipal Development Trends 2016 Information File N/A Applications approved, and Zoning Changes approved 2/1/2017
Coordination 2016
submitted
Página 279
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION 2016
File # Plan Name Location Type Action Date
Capitol Complex Lighting
HI‐16‐01 Capital Complex Area Presentation of Information Informational Presentation 2/18/2016
Upgrades
Demolition of garage and construction of
HI‐16‐02 Carriage House Building 2 Kings Highway SW HDC Approval of ARC 4/21/2016
carriage house building as accessory structure
CLG Grant Application for Application for grant for update of Design
HI‐16‐03 Information File 4/28/2016
FFY2016 Standards & Guidelines
HI‐16‐04 Sign Permit Referral 595 Forest Street Signage Permit Consultation on ARC 5/19/2016
126 W Loockerman 3‐story Commercial/Apartment Building and 4‐ HDC Recommendation on ARC 7/21/2016
HI‐16‐05 Mixed Use Buildings
Street story Commercial/Apartment Building PC Approval of ARC 9/19/2016
Open Flags for Downtown
HI‐16‐06 Downtown Dover Information File Presentation to HDC 10/20/2016
Businesses
Página 280
CONDITIONAL USES 2016
Bldg Sq
File # Plan Name Location Type DU Action Date
Ft (new)
Large Family Daycare at Solid Large Family PC Conditional Approval 2/16/2016
C‐16‐01 113 North West St 0
Rock Baptist Church Daycare Final Approval 4/18/2016
Residential
PC Conditional Approval 2/16/2016
C‐16‐02 Residential Treatment Facility 1420 McKee Rd Treatment 0
Final Approval 4/1/2016
Facility
420 Reed St 105/107 S PC Conditional Approval 3/21/2016
C‐16‐03 Lands of Mautiste LLC Duplexes 6
Kirkwood St Final Approval 11/30/2016
Rec Committee recommendation on Active Rec Plan 8/9/2016
The Grande Clubhouse & Pool Clubhouse and
C‐16‐04 90 Saulsbury Rd 2,620 PC Conditional Approval 8/15/2016
PND‐SCHO Pool
PC Conditional Approval of Revised Plan 1/17/2017
One Family Residence at 955 Failed to meet notice requirements 11/7/2016
C‐16‐05 955 Forest St Residence 1
Forest St Failed to meet notice requirements 12/6/2016
Página 281
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT 2016
File # Applicant Location Description Type Action Date
Approved 2/17/2016
Lands of MauTiste Investment 420 W Reed St, 105/107 Lot dimensions, setbacks, and lot coverage in
V‐16‐01 Area Variance Approved Revised
Group N Kirkwood St RG‐1
Variance 4/20/2016
Reestablish nonconforming use after >1‐year
V‐16‐02 Lands of James Dowd 104 S New St Use Variance Approved 1/13/2016
lapse
Reestablish nonconforming use after >1‐year
V‐16‐03 Serendra Apartments 764 S State St Use Variance Withdrawn 4/20/2016
lapse
V‐16‐04 Lands of Wayne S. Lipscomb 131 Nob Hill Rd Allow driveway to count as two parking spaces Area Variance Approved 5/18/2016
Tabled 5/18/2016
V‐16‐05 Family Dental Associates 385 Saulsbury Rd Exceed maximum number of parking spaces Area Variance
Approved 6/15/2016
Tabled 6/15/2016
V‐16‐06 Lands of Margaret Johnson 1310/1324 Forrest Ave Height in COZ‐1 Area Variance
Withdrawn 10/19/2016
V‐16‐07 Lands of ERG Properties LLC 423 S Dupont Hwy Setbacks in C‐4 Area Variance Approved 7/20/2016
V‐16‐08 Lands of John W. Warren 82 Laurel Dr Lot coverage in R‐10 Area Variance Approved 7/20/2016
Lands of Robert & Darlene Permit a rooster and one other chicken on a
V‐16‐09 33‐35 S Bradford St Area Variance Approved 7/20/2016
Dillard property below minimum lot size for chickens
Reestablish nonconforming use after >1‐year
V‐16‐10 ENG Properties LLC 5780 West Dennys Rd Use Variance Approved 7/20/2016
lapse
324 Martin St & 409 S
V‐16‐11 Capital Pawn Signage Permit one extra pylon sign and storage trailers Area Variance Denied 8/17/2016
DuPont Hwy
Exceed maximum number of parking spaces
V‐16‐12 Wells Fargo Bank 100 N DuPont Hwy Area Variance Approved 9/21/2016
and allow parking spaces <18 feet long
Holden Motors Inc d/b/a
V‐16‐13 640 S Governors Ave Permit 7 wall signs Area Variance Approved 10/19/2016
Holden Dodge Chrysler Jeep
Cellco Partnership d/b/a
V‐16‐14 277‐293 N DuPont Hwy Height in SC‐2 Area Variance Approved 10/19/2016
Verizon Wireless
Appeal by Georgia Heininger‐ 823 E Loockerman St Appeal of decision to issue building permit to
V‐16‐15 Appeal Denied 11/16/2016
Trader (the "Lot") manufactured home
Lands of Thomas Bugbee &
V‐16‐16 74 Laurel Dr Allow construction within the floodplain Area Variance Approved 12/21/2016
Sherrill Brekke
Página 282
ANNEXATIONS 2016
File # Applicant Location County Zoning City Zoning Acreage Action Date
Capital Cleaners & PC Recommended Approval 3/21/2016
AX‐16‐01 1102 S State St BG C‐2A 0.15
Launderers Inc. CC Approval 4/11/2016
Lands of Heartland 1411 1417 S PC Recommended Approval 4/18/2016
AX‐16‐02 BG C‐4 0.67
Delaware Inc. Governors Ave CC Approval 5/9/2016
Lands of Dover Persimmon Tree PC Recommended Approval 4/18/2016
AX‐16‐03 AR RC 258.43
International Speedway Ln CC Approval 5/9/2016
Página 283
EXCERPT OF FEBRUARY 28, 2017 COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE/SAFETY
ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
The Council Committee of the Whole Meeting was held on February 28, 2017 at 6:00 p.m., with
Mr. Hare presiding in the absence of Council President Slavin. Members of Council present were
Mr. Anderson (arrived at 6:13 p.m.), Mr. Neil, Mr. Lewis (departed at 7:31 p.m. and returned at 7:48 p.m.),
Mr. Cole (arrived at 6:04 p.m.), Mr. Hosfelt, and Mr. Hutchison. Mr. Sudler was absent.
Mayor Christiansen (arrived at 6:18 p.m.) was also present. Civilian members present for their
Committee meetings were Mr. Keller and Mr. Shelton (Safety Advisory and Transportation).
Ms. Arndt and Mr. Blakeman (Utility) were absent.
Presentation by C. David Jamison - Speed Control Measures - Independence Boulevard
During the Regular City Council Meeting of May 9, 2016, Council considered Speed Control
Measures - Independence Boulevard and approved the recommendation of the Delaware Department
of Transportation (DelDOT) and the working group for the roundabout, as recommended by the
Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee.
Mr. Hosfelt reminded members that discussions regarding traffic control measures for Independence
Boulevard had begun during the Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee meeting of
July 27, 2015. He noted that, over the course of time, there had been several meetings regarding this
matter, and State Representative Sean Lynn and the Mayor’s Office had been involved in trying to
help the people in this neighborhood and along the streets due to safety, speeding, and other
concerns. He noted that, after speaking with residents, it was felt strongly that Mr. C. David Jamison
and Retired Colonel Tom Dix, who lives on Independence Boulevard, should be heard from to get
their opinions. Mr. Hosfelt explained that because action on this project was previously approved
by Council, no action could be taken during this meeting and the matter would have to go back to
Council. Mr. Hosfelt advised that Mr. Jamison and Colonel Dix would each be given 15 minutes
to speak, and then members would hear from any residents who wished to speak regarding this
matter.
Mr. C. David Jamison, 423 Columbia Avenue, advised members that his son Kirk lives on
Lamplighter Lane, and Mr. Jamison often visits him and goes to Capriotti’s, Ace Hardware, etc. He
stated that when he found out a year ago that traffic calming measures were proposed, he
communicated and met with Mr. Mike Somers, City Transportation Planner and Traffic Calming
Project Manager, DelDOT; however, they agreed to disagree on this issue. Mr. Jamison explained
that he had seen Representative Sean Lynn’s campaign flyers in September that promised proposed
traffic calming measures. He advised that on three (3) separate occasions he had asked Mr. Lynn
to meet to talk about the project; however, Mr. Lynn was committed to the working group’s plan,
so there was no need to meet, and they agreed to disagree. Mr. Jamison explained that he then
researched the minutes of the City Council meeting of May 9, 2016 and decided that he would have
to prepare a report evaluating the proposed traffic calming measures. He stated his belief that
members had received a final copy of his report on January 27, 2017. (City Clerk’s Office Note: A
report entitled “Independence Boulevard Traffic Calming Measures Report” (Attachment #1) was
received via email from Mr. Jamison on January 23, 2017; the Mayor and members of City Council
were copied on his email, and it was forwarded to the civilian members of the Safety Advisory and
Transportation Committee on January 24, 2017.)
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EXCERPT OF FEBRUARY 28, 2017 COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE/
SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES PAGE 2
Mr. Jamison reviewed a presentation entitled “Independence Boulevard Traffic Calming Measures
Report.” Following his presentation, he noted that he had presented his message using common
sense and hoped that members heard it using common sense. Mr. Jamison expressed his hope that,
at the end of the day, he could say that everyone agreed to agree.
Mr. Anderson asked if any money had already been spent on the project and, if so, how much. He
also noted that upon reviewing the petitions of those opposed, none of those who signed were on
Independence Boulevard. Mr. Anderson stated that he had noticed signatures from Green Blade
Drive and other areas, but none were in the impact area. He indicated that an impact area survey is
the responsibility of DelDOT, not the City, and asked if DelDOT had done the survey. Responding,
Mr. Jamison stated that the survey was the result of flyers by people who were opposed to the project
and was not an official survey; however, he would more than welcome an official one.
Mr. Anderson stated that the official survey was supposed to have been mailed out by DelDOT and
asked if Mr. Jamison knew the results from it. In response, Mr. Jamison stated that he was surprised
that no one had brought this up at the meeting last May and questioned why the project was approved
without the votes. He expressed his belief that Colonel Dix would verify that flyers were given out
on Independence Boulevard, and explained that he did not know why they did not respond to it, but
he assured members that they were delivered there. Mr. Jamison reiterated that this was not an
official survey, which he would more than welcome, and was sure that anyone against the project
would also welcome it. He stated that he was sure that the result would be the same.
Mr. Hosfelt indicated that DelDOT had recently offered to do an official survey and there had been
some conversation between himself and Mr. Lynn to get on the same page to make that happen.
Mr. Anderson stated that there had been a Bicentennial Civic Association meeting where this was
a hot topic, even though that area was broader than the probable impact area. He asked what the
result of that meeting was. Responding, Mr. Jamison indicated that he was not there. Mr. Hosfelt
informed members that, at the latest meeting, residents had basically four (4) different opinions, as
follows: 1) leave it as is, with the traffic roundabout at Independence Boulevard and Colony Drive,
which was the only thing that had been approved at this point in time; 2) do a traffic realignment,
which was originally thought to be part of the motion but was not included the way the motion was
worded; 3) do nothing at all; or 4) go with a digital speed sign. He indicated that the meeting was
well attended and the majority wanted to disregard the traffic roundabout at Colony Drive and
instead go with the traffic realignment along Independence Boulevard in the area of the park. He
noted that this was the opinion of the majority of the residents, but it had been close.
Mr. Hare noted that there had been some speeding issues on Wyoming Avenue, which has
approximately 30 residents, and is approximately the same length as Independence Boulevard, which
has approximately 13 residents. He stated that those in the Woodbrook area had been looking at stop
signs but proposed a roundabout for that area in lieu of stop signs, which Mr. Hare indicated was not
a bad idea. Mr. Hare asked, if the roundabout does not go forward on Independence Boulevard, that
the money not be given to street repairs since it might be used to put a roundabout on Wyoming
Avenue. Responding, Mr. Jamison stated that he was unsure what State representative district the
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EXCERPT OF FEBRUARY 28, 2017 COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE/
SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES PAGE 3
Wyoming Avenue area would fall under. Mr. Hare noted that Senator Brian Bushweller and
Representative Sean Lynn both represent this area.
Mr. Hutchison commented that a radar speed sign had been placed on North State Street between
Walker Road and Division Street. He stated that he traveled that road every day during the early
morning, day, and evening and noted the behavior of people driving there had changed. Mr. Jamison
noted that people do react to these signs.
Mr. Keller stated that he agreed with Mr. Hutchison’s remarks, noting that the radar speed sign
would be an excellent compromise.
Mr. Lewis asked how much work DelDOT had already started or how much had been spent on this
project. Responding, Mr. Jamison stated that he had been trying to get a set of plans. He indicated
that he did not know if the project was on hold and to date he had only received conceptual plans.
Mr. Lewis expressed his understanding that work had started on the project since it had been
approved. Mr. Hosfelt explained that a representative from DelDOT would be speaking later in the
meeting.
Mr. Jamison commended Mr. Will Garfinkel, noting that Mr. Garfinkel was running as a candidate
for City Council in the First District and gave time and effort to this project. He also stated his desire
to salute all of the members of Council, explaining that it was not a high-paying job but members
were giving their time and efforts to the City of Dover, and he appreciated and respected them.
Mr. Jamison commented that Mr. Hutchison had decided not to run for re-election in the First
District and noted that he had attended Dover High School with Mr. Hutchison. He stated that
Mr. Hutchison was a man who stood up for what he believed in and would not back down.
Mr. Jamison informed members that he, himself, had gotten an engineering degree and went to work
for DelDOT as a highway engineer and then into private practice, noting that his focus had always
been the safety and welfare of the traveling public. He advised that Mr. Hutchison became Chief
of Police, Mayor, and Councilman, and his whole life had been dedicated to the safety and welfare
of the citizens of Dover. Mr. Jamison asked that those present join him in showing appreciation to
Mr. Hutchison and acknowledging all that he had done. Mr. Anderson noted that Mr. Hutchison had
also served in the Delaware Army National Guard.
Retired Colonel Thomas Dix, 664 Independence Boulevard, reviewed correspondence and
attachments dated February 27, 2017, addressed to the Office of the Mayor and Council
(Attachment #2). He referred to the comment in his letter that the DelDOT Traffic Calming Design
Manual indicates that radar speed signs “Can cause speeds to be reduced within a community,” and
explained that “can” is a funny word that means able or possible; however, a radar speed sign
had been on Bicentennial Boulevard since June and did not work. Colonel Dix stated that
Mr. Doug Stamm, who lives right by the sign, had stated that it was ineffective.
Colonel Dix expressed skepticism that substituting two (2) yellow lines and one (1) blinking radar
light for proven traffic calming measures would solve all of the problems, stating that he felt that he
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had been trampled. He pointed out that there are 13 people who have an Independence Boulevard
address, and over 250 people in Bicentennial Village. Colonel Dix advised that people who live on
the end of a cul-de-sac and are coming off of a dead-end street were telling him what 5,000 cars are
like going in front of his house. He indicated that when he moved there in 1999, he did not have
5,000 cars in front of his house, but he has them now. Colonel Dix questioned if this is how people
should be treated, stating that it is not right to punish a minority group. Colonel Dix added that a
single radar speed sign only works in one (1) direction and asked if there would be another one (1)
for traffic going the other way.
Colonel Dix noted that Mr. Jamison had mentioned that yellow center line stripes can reduce speeds
by between two (2) mph and seven (7) mph, and emphasized that “can” indicates that this is possible
but not highly probable. He noted that this had been proven since lines were painted and he expected
speeds to reduce; however, they increased from 29.1 mph to 29.4 mph. Colonel Dix indicated that,
in talking about the number of accidents on Independence Boulevard, Mr. Jamison had shown a site
and mentioned an accident in 2013 when a driver hit the entrance sign. Colonel Dix advised that he
knew that someone hit the marquee in 2014 and it was finally fixed in 2015, and he did not know
where Mr. Jamison got his data from. Colonel Dix indicated that Captain David Spicer, Dover
Police Department, had previously stated that there were 10 accidents in 2015 and that the year
before there were only three (3). Colonel Dix expressed his opinion that this street was going to hell
in a hand basket, and he thanked Captain Spicer for bringing this to everyone’s attention.
Colonel Dix stated that Mr. Jamison had commented about a speed problem and referenced an
average speed of 29 mph, as if this was okay. Colonel Dix indicated that this was not okay when the
recent study showed that 9.2% were above the ticketing speed of 35 mph. He advised that averages
do not tell anything and noted that, by simple math, an average speed of 29.1 mph can be the average
between 34.1 and 21.1 mph. Colonel Dix advised that those who are traveling 25.1 mph are the ones
who want to obey the speed limit, and those who are traveling just below 35 mph do not want a
ticket. He estimated that 2% - 3% of the drivers go as fast as they can, noting that in the latest survey
in February, three (3) cars were clocked at over 70 mph. Colonel Dix asked if he was living on a
raceway and was supposed to put up with this. He stated that 250 people were telling 13 people that
they do not have a problem and they begged to differ. Colonel Dix reiterated that he was a minority
and did not want to be treated as a minority.
Colonel Dix informed members that he had given over two (2) years of his life working on this
project. He stated that when he started working on this project he recommended speed cushions and
blocking the road at Redner’s. He indicated that he had listened to the best that Delaware could give
as far as traffic calming. Colonel Dix noted that DelDOT has a whole section that does traffic
calming that indicated that a roundabout and realigned intersection were needed. He stated that he
was not pumping anything and had just gone along with the people who were supposed to know
what they are talking about, and noted that Mr. Garfinkel and Mr. Stamm had gone along with them
too. Colonel Dix indicated that he was now being tortured by 250 people who do not live on
Independence Boulevard.
Mr. Neil commented that in theater the two (2) protagonists are the most important people and stated
his belief that what Mr. Jamison and Colonel Dix had done was brilliant and the type of thing that
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members need to hear from citizens. He indicated that he would award them a tie; however, that
would be the easy way out, and a decision would have to be made. Mr. Neil thanked them for their
enlightening presentations and the time and effort they put into this matter, noting that they would
make members’ job tougher rather than easier.
Mr. Anderson, noting that Colonel Dix had stated that almost 10% of the traffic was above 35 mph,
asked if the median speed was known. In response, Colonel Dix provided a report for Mr. Anderson
to review.
Mr. Lewis asked why the people who were now opposed to the project were not present to voice
their opposition when it was approved by Council. Responding, Mr. Hosfelt explained that, from
what he had heard, there was some confusion about whether or not those people were invited to
meetings or they had not felt that they were notified properly. Mr. Lewis indicated that the meetings
are publicized.
Mr. Hutchison thanked Colonel Dix for the work he had done, noting that at the end of the day
everyone was here for one (1) reason, public safety. He stated that he had 25 years in law
enforcement, knows about public safety, rides up and down State Street every day, and radar systems
and speed signs work. Mr. Hutchison advised that putting radar systems on either side and
monitoring and reviewing this area would cost approximately $5,000, which would be a lot cheaper.
He advised that if the radar systems did not work, there is a traffic study that says that the roundabout
would be another alternative, and noted that the big project should not be done first. Mr. Hutchison
informed members that he could not guarantee that the radar speed signs would work; however, he
guaranteed that the traffic on State Street changed because of those signs. He stated that he was
asking Colonel Dix and everyone else in the community to consider that if the radar signs are put up
and they work, everyone would win. Mr. Hutchison explained that he was not saying anything
against the study and roundabout because this could be plan B if the signs do not work.
Colonel Dix commented that a study had been done, noting that a flashing radar light was put up on
June 2nd on Bicentennial Boulevard. He reviewed an email regarding the flashing radar sign from
Mr. Stamm (Attachment #2).
Mr. Hutchison asked if signs were put both ways on Bicentennial Boulevard, and Colonel Dix
advised that they were not. Mr. Hutchison noted that North State Street had signs in both directions.
Mr. Lewis advised that he was not an expert on radar signs but had seen people speed right by them
and not be a deterred at all. He indicated that they are not 100% effective.
Mr. Keller explained that he had also been up and down State Street daily and had seen a definite
decrease, noting that there would always be scofflaws no matter what the street or traffic control
measures are. He questioned what the City had to lose with the $5,000 outlay described by
Mr. Hutchison and noted that if it did not work, plan B could be used. Mr. Keller advised that he
agreed 100% with this approach.
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Mr. Mike Somers, City Transportation Planner and Traffic Calming Project Manager, DelDOT,
referred to Mr. Anderson’s questions regarding why a DelDOT survey was not done for the entire
community. He explained that this was not a DelDOT project but a City of Dover project, and
DelDOT was a support arm. Mr. Somers advised that DelDOT will give the City what is needed,
do what the City asks them to do, and do the design work; however, in a municipality, the
municipality governs the process. He explained that the option in Dover was whether the group
wanted DelDOT to ballot the community or whether they wanted to go through Council and the
group decided to take it to Council. Mr. Somers pointed out that DelDOT had not forgotten to do
a survey, this was the way it was chosen to be done in this case. Noting that it was mentioned that
DelDOT had offered to do a survey now, he explained that this was because of his concern that there
was a disconnect. Mr. Somers indicated that there was confusion, one (1) group was saying that they
wanted it, another group saying that they did not, and the votes were not all that far apart, so he made
the offer to do a survey.
In regard to the cost of the project, Mr. Somers advised that additional costs beyond what had been
mentioned were not anticipated. In terms of the status, he indicated that everything was mostly done
and the project was in the process of being passed around the department for review. Mr. Somers
advised that, even though there was no impact outside of the right-of-way and there should not be
any impact off the asphalt, the project must still be passed by the environmental group, etc.,
according to the rules. He noted that if it comes back stating that Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA) or other adjustments are needed, this will have to be done, but the plans were finished for the
most part. Mr. Somers explained that the plans were not being handed out because they were not
finished, and they do not hand out working draft plans. He stated that once plans are complete, they
will be public record, and anybody who wants to see them would be more than welcome to do so.
Mr. Anderson questioned how much had been invested in the project so far. In response,
Mr. Somers stated that he had not brought those numbers with him but estimated a range of $25,000
to $30,000, noting that it was mostly consultant money.
Mr. Anderson indicated that he had looked at the report that Colonel Dix provided to him for review,
and noted that approximately 85% of the traffic was above the posted speed limit and approximately
45% was above 30 mph. He asked if this was within normal parameters. Responding, Mr. Somers
indicated that this was getting into speculation; however, it was not uncommon to see those kinds
of numbers on a fairly straight road like this. He noted that, other than the one (1) end where all of
the houses were directly on the road, most of rest of the road was pretty open and there was nobody
living on it directly. Mr. Somers advised that speed limits are set for a reason, they are not supposed
to be suggestions, and police try to enforce a specific speed because those speeds have been
designated as safe speeds for a particular route.
For clarification, Mr. Lewis asked what stage DelDOT was at as far as work being done on the
project, and if it was in the early stages of drafting, diagrams, and blueprints. In response,
Mr. Somers stated that for the most part the plans were finished but were being passed around for
in-house review. He explained that a contract had been lined up with a commitment to include this
project on it, and the money had been allocated and approved, so DelDOT was ready to move.
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Mr. Lewis asked if the money had been disseminated. Responding, Mr. Somers stated that the
money had been contributed by the legislators, transferred to the programs, and was ready to go. He
pointed out that it is Community Transportation Funding (CTF), which is an allocation of funds that
each legislator receives annually for projects in their district. Mr. Somers noted that the City also
receives money directly without the legislators’ involvement, and Mr. Anderson advised that it was
Municipal Street Aid. Mr. Somers stated that these funds are supposed to be used within the City.
Referring to Mr. Hare’s comments about using the money somewhere else, Mr. Somers indicated
that this was not necessarily the case, noting that he would not get into the legislators’ business
about this.
In response to Mr. Lewis about whether the funds could be used elsewhere, Mr. Somers indicated
that the legislators could put it somewhere else, but it would have to be a similar project. He noted
that the funding was there and if it is not grabbed when it is available, it may or may not be available
next time. Mr. Somers reiterated that he would not presume to get involved in the legislators’
business about this.
Mr. Neil asked, if this matter was put on hold for now and had to be brought back at a later time,
whether the City would lose any of the plans or if anything would change regarding what had already
been done. In response, Mr. Somers stated that a month-and-a-half ago, when he was told that there
were questions, he discussed this in-house with his supervisor. He stated that, regardless of what
comes out of the process, DelDOT will finish the plans, and if the City decides not to move forward,
DelDOT will still have the plans. He cautioned that the plans would have to be reviewed to make
sure that nothing has changed with the laws and regulations if this moves forward in two (2) to five
(5) years; however, they probably would not have to be changed much. Mr. Somers noted that the
money was another issue, and it may or may not be there. He indicated that the plans would be
recorded, archived, and set aside until they are called upon.
Mr. Shelton asked how long the money would be allocated for. Responding, Mr. Somers estimated
that funds would be in place for this project for a maximum of four (4) years; however, he explained
that he did not know what that would mean if the funds were moved out of this project into
something else. He indicated that he thought that the legislators have to use their money annually
within at least a four-year period, after which it would no longer be available.
Mr. Shelton asked if enough money had been allocated for a roundabout if they chose, or for the
radar speed sign. Responding, Mr. Hosfelt stated that money was allocated for both. (City Clerk’s
Office Note: Subsequent to the meeting, Mr. Hosfelt advised the City Clerk’s Office that funds had
been allocated for both the roundabout and the traffic realignment; however, there was no mention
of an allocation for radar speed signs.)
Mr. Shelton stated that he agreed with the plan to stay with the radar speed sign; however, he noted
that he drives on Mifflin Road every day, which has a roundabout, and had seen how it stops the flow
of traffic, which he stated was not a bad idea. He indicated that he liked Mr. Hutchison’s comments
about looking at the radar speed sign initially and moving on to the next thing if that does not work.
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Mr. Keller asked how much of the $77,000 outlay the $25,000 would entail. Responding,
Mr. Somers explained that the design money is part of DelDOT’s in-house budget.
Mr. Hosfelt explained that this project would not cost the City. Mr. Somers reiterated that the funds
would not come out of the City’s budget but would be CTF money. He indicated that the City would
have nothing to lose financially by doing the project, it was a matter of whether the City has an
interest in doing it.
Mr. Lewis stated that he was baffled because testimony had been heard by Colonel Dix that they had
already put up a radar sign in the community and it was ineffective, so he did not understand why
they would want to spend money to do the same thing again. Responding, Mr. Hare stated that the
sign had been put up on Bicentennial Boulevard, rather than Independence Boulevard.
Mr. Hosfelt asked Mr. Somers if, in his opinion, traffic calming was needed on Independence
Boulevard. In response, Mr. Somers expressed his belief that there was a concern and that the
community certainly believed it. He noted that, at a community meeting held a few days prior, even
the people who did not necessarily love the notion of a roundabout were collectively not opposed
to doing something. Mr. Somers stated that this had been just a straw vote at an individual meeting;
however, even the people who did not want to do anything felt there was a concern.
Mr. Hosfelt asked if Mr. Somers thought that it was a matter of both things working together or if
one (1) approach or the other should be tried. In response, Mr. Somers advised that each measure,
whether a stop sign, roundabout, or realigned intersection, would have an area of influence that is
generally 250 to 300 feet, depending on the measure, noting that this area is not always the same
everywhere. He explained that a combination of measures breaks speeding more effectively than
having one (1) or two (2). Mr. Somers indicated that when most rational people are coming out of
a roundabout, and know there is a stop sign 300 or 400 feet down the road, they will not greatly
increase their speed; however, he noted that people are not always rational. He advised that if people
know there is something else coming they will stop trying to make up time, because they know they
will not be able to do so.
Mr. Hosfelt thanked Mr. Somers, noting that he had been available anytime he was asked to come
out in the evenings or to attend different community meetings and had answered questions. He
expressed appreciation for Mr. Somers’ help with this project. Mr. Somers invited those who needed
more information to contact him directly.
Dr. Dina Vendetti, Principal, St. John’s Lutheran School, 1156 Walker Road, stated that she was
representing the parents of students at Saint John's and noted that the school uses Continental Park
for several activities. She explained that their property does not have any playing fields on it, so this
is the closest field they can use. Dr. Vendetti advised that they sometimes use the park for physical
education classes, but their biggest use of the park is a two-day field day event where several parents
participate. She informed members that she put this matter out to parents and was unsure how
concerned they would be, and the result was three (3) pages of a petition. Dr. Vendetti explained
that their concern was about parking, noting that she had heard two (2) reports of what the area
would look like after the project was complete. She stated that if parking was eliminated on the
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Continental Park side of the street, this would be a problem for them in using the park and for their
parents to be able to participate in the activities of their kids. Dr. Vendetti stated that she understood
that there was parking on the other side of the street; however, little kids were being discussed. She
indicated that parents were not thrilled about the idea of walking the children across the street, and
it was much more convenient and much easier for them to pull up alongside the park and be part of
the activity. Dr. Vendetti advised that most of them do not live in that neighborhood so it is not
really their fight, but their concern was the use of the park and the availability of parking near the
park. She asked, whichever route the group decided to go, that members be aware of this and save
as many parking places as possible.
Ms. Carolyn Courtney, 24 Lamplighter Lane informed members that she was native to Dover and
chose and bought her house in May 1996 because it was in the center of Dover. She indicated that
she had two (2) children at the time and it was close to commerce, her parents, and her family.
Ms. Courtney stated that at night she has to listen to cars racing up and down the roads, and that she
can hear the cars on Walker Road, and the train from her house. She advised that when you live in
the City, these are some of the things you deal with; however, it had been a blessing to have a nice,
wide street in the neighborhood that had been a place for her and her children to walk, ride bicycles,
or rollerblade. Ms. Courtney stated that the occasional yahoo who drives down Independence
Boulevard at full speed and runs stop signs would do this on any street, and it was not up to the City
to fix this with a traffic circle by taking parking away from a park.
Ms. Courtney noted that Dr. Vendetti had stated that her school uses the park during the day.
Ms. Courtney indicated that she had been there at night and seen teens use it for practice and pick-up
games for those who show up and play football. She advised that taking the parking and narrowing
that section of Independence Boulevard in front of Continental Drive would be an injustice to
everyone who uses and appreciates it. Ms. Courtney stated that jumping to traffic circles would be
way too fast, noting that there is not that big of a problem on her road. She suggested trying other
calming measures and noted that when she sees the blinking signs on Wyoming Avenue and
State Street, she looks down, checks herself, and slows down. Ms. Courtney explained that the
striping on Independence Boulevard had happened while she was on vacation and at first she thought
it was a ridiculous waste of money; however, in the month since, she thought that the striping had
helped tremendously. She expressed her belief that the speed limit signs would help on
Independence Boulevard, rather than jumping to the measures proposed by Colonel Dix and the
committee of three (3) or four (4) people supposedly representing the entire neighborhood.
Ms. Courtney advised that, in addition to Bicentennial, the neighborhood included the Greens
Association. She explained that these were the townhouses on the west side of Independence
Boulevard who were never included in any of this, and she stated that it was an injustice to let
four (4) or five (5) people speak for everyone.
Noting that Ms. Courtney had stated that there were only three (3) or four (4) people on this
committee, Mr. Lewis asked if there was public notice put out that the committee was being formed
and if Ms. Courtney had been aware that this was going on. Responding, Ms. Courtney stated that
she knew nothing about it in the beginning, had seen it one (1) time on the Council agenda, and it
was then gone and she heard it was a done deal. She indicated that she had received no mailing,
flyer, or notice.
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Mr. Lewis stated his understanding that the homeowners’ association has a Facebook page and asked
if Ms. Courtney was privy to this or had been on this site. In response, Ms. Courtney advised that,
since attending one (1) of the meetings, she had joined the Bicentennial Association; however, she
noted that she is on the west side of Independence Boulevard and belongs to the Greens Association.
She stated that these members were not included and did not know anything about it.
Mr. Jim Stewart, 742 Bicentennial Boulevard, stated that he lives at the corner of Colony Drive and
Bicentennial Boulevard, which is about the equivalent of being at the corner of Dover Downs at the
racetrack as they are whipping around and can hear them at night. He advised that there are 327
households in the neighborhood, including Green Blade Drive and Lamplighter Lane, and they had
yet to have 10% of the households represented at any of the meetings. Mr. Stewart stated that there
were 897,934 residents in the State of Delaware on the 2010 census, the estimate as of July 1, 2016
was 952,065, and he projected that the State would probably be at 1,000,000 in 2020. Mr. Stewart
indicated that the cost of just the traffic circle would be $0.14 per resident, and just doing the
narrowing would be $0.06 per resident. When going to the larger population, he indicated that the
cost of the traffic circle would drop down to $0.13, and the narrowing drops down to such an
infinitesimal percent of a penny that he could probably pay for everybody in the room and still have
change left over from the one (1) penny.
Mr. Stewart indicated that he was in the middle when he attended the meetings and compared this
to living between the Hatfields and the McCoys, with bricks flying in both directions. He advised
that there was a big group of those who were curious about what was going on and why, and there
had obviously been some miscommunication. Mr. Stewart noted that some personalities had gotten
involved, and there had been a lot of confusion. He advised that he had raised a concern at the last
meeting about the fact that kids have to cross Independence Boulevard to get to the school bus stop
there and this had not been mentioned. Mr. Stewart commented that one of his neighbors, in irate
frustration, had questioned why anything would be done since no one had been hit yet. He stated
that the lady who lives on that corner and has kids at her bus stop or in her yard will have to deal
with anybody being injured there, and she had commented that she was a retired public health nurse
and believed in preventative measures. Mr. Stewart expressed the need to pay attention to the school
kids.
Mr. Stewart advised that many options had been taken away, stating that a four-way stop cannot be
used because it does not meet DelDOT standards at Independence Boulevard and Colony Drive,
speed bumps or cushions cannot be used due to the Fire Department and other groups, and there were
a couple of other items he could not remember. He indicated that he had to call an ambulance to his
house once and did not want speed bumps to slow down those coming to him when they are really
needed. He stated that it would cost $10,000, not $5,000, for a radar sign, and every time that money
is chipped away at, there would be less money and a need to hunt for it somewhere else.
Mr. Stewart stated that members have a good share of responsibility for the City and City taxpayers
and if something happened to somebody on that street, particularly a school kid, their parents would
hire an attorney who would go hunting for deep pockets. He noted that there was a thorough and
deep public record that the City was looking at this issue. Mr. Stewart questioned what the liability
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would become if the City did not try to do something, stating that it would be far higher than
anything that had been talked about this evening.
Mr. Stewart indicated that the group met last on Monday, it was a vibrant meeting, and each time
they voted, the votes were roughly one-third, one-third, and one-third. He advised that when they
started raising the issue of the school kids, which was the prime issue, only two (2) voted against it,
one (1) person that he did not know and another lady who lives well insulated from Independence
Boulevard and does not see the problem every day. Mr. Stewart explained that they came to a
reasonable consensus, which was a compromise, and there was some fussing and grumbling, but he
thought the group seemed to be coming to a conclusion that they would be willing to try the traffic
narrowing. He stated that some of those in the middle were afraid of what they had to lose, and he
explained that school kids were what there was to lose if members were not careful. Mr. Stewart
advised that they could bring pictures in of these kids to show to members and questioned, if it was
too dangerous for little kids to cross the street for a couple of festival events, then what was it for
the kids who have to do that every day during the school year. He indicated that they were just as
much at risk and just as valuable, and $0.14 or $0.13 was being discussed. Mr. Stewart estimated
that basically $0.20 of the first tax dollar spent on the day that this money was allocated would go
to this project. He commented that, with all respect to Mr. Hare, the budget vultures were out there
and had other projects, and Mr. Stewart did not blame them. Mr. Stewart stated that he had spent
26 years in State government and members could not assume that this money would be there a year
or two (2) from now because loose money lying around is low-hanging fruit in State government and
they come after it first.
Mr. Eric Frankl, 44 Freedom Drive, asked if there was a device that would not just flash the driver’s
speed but also take a picture of a license plate and the speed, so that the City could get money from
them. Responding, Mr. Hosfelt explained that, several years ago when he was serving as Chief of
Police, the City had tried to work with the legislators for Dover to become a test for a program
similar to red light or speed cameras. He stated that it never gained any traction at that point from
any of the legislators, and that is why the City did not have this program.
Mrs. Rhonda Lewis, 27 Liberty Drive, advised that there had been different proposals, including a
circle coming from Route 8 going toward Walker Road, a three-way stop at Continental Boulevard,
narrowing, and another three-way stop at Liberty Drive. She asked what would happen when people
are ticked off when they go through this long course, reach the block of houses where people are
noticing the speed problem, and speed toward Walker Road. Noting that Mr. Somers had advised
that these measures reduce speeds within a radius, Mrs. Lewis asked what the point would be and
what more there would be to do when drivers get through all of this, are aggravated, and speed to
Walker Road in front of the houses of Colonel Dix and others. She noted that she sees people slowly
running through the stop signs all the time, stating that she did not know what more there was to do
except for law enforcement.
Representative Sean Lynn, 224 Columbia Avenue, stated that he was present to speak in favor of the
project which was brought to him by the City. He explained that the City asked him to facilitate
public meetings to investigate this issue and they spent about a year investigating the issue.
Mr. Lynn advised that they had the finest experts at DelDOT in traffic calming review this project
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with a private engineer for more than one (1) year and then brought that project to this Committee,
who voted on it. He explained that notice was properly given to residents of Bicentennial Village
and the other associated neighborhoods vis-a-vis the publication of Council agendas. Mr. Lynn
indicated that when this issue was brought before the Committee, everyone in the City of Dover had
access to the agendas and, regardless of what people's positions were, Council and this Committee
voted on it.
Mr. Lynn stated that if you go to the doctor and the doctor tells you that you need your appendix
removed, you don't say to the doctor that you would rather have your gall bladder removed. He
indicated that it is not a buffet, and the experts had opined and rendered an opinion that two (2)
things were necessary, a realigned intersection and a roundabout. Mr. Lynn advised that the experts
at DelDOT had examined the issue and told members what the solution was and that this was what
they needed to listen to. He informed members that he would not fund any alternative other than
what the DelDOT engineers had proposed and, unless Council funds what the engineers had
proposed, he would not give the CTF dollars to do it. Mr. Lynn stated that if something else was
wanted, the City would have to pay for it because the engineers had spoken. He advised that if you
return to the doctor and say that you want your gall bladder out and they reiterate that you have
appendicitis, you do not get to choose. Mr. Lynn explained that they had asked the finest minds in
the State to examine this and they had rendered their opinions. He indicated that this issue would
only get worse as time progresses, noting that cost of the project would only increase and, once the
bypass is completed, there would be more traffic on this road. Mr. Lynn stated that Captain David
Spicer had stated what the traffic patterns were on this road, and people who are against the project
had asserted that the Dover Police Department was lying about what the traffic patterns were. He
indicated that this was unconscionable. Mr. Lynn stated that, as the City grows, the situation will
become worse. For these reasons, he advised that Council needed to stick with its original position
and allow the project to go through unabated.
Mr. Hosfelt advised that when the original motion was made, through no one’s fault and due to a
wording issue, the roundabout was the only traffic calming measure that was approved. He asked,
if this issue goes back to Council and the other part of the project is not approved, whether Mr. Lynn
was saying the money would not be there and if he wanted it all or nothing. In response, Mr. Lynn
stated that the money had already been expended since it was not clear to DelDOT that Council made
an error and only approved one (1) of the two (2) traffic calming measures. He advised that the
dollars had already been allocated, they had already funded the project, and work was already
underway. Mr. Lynn stated that he did not think it reasonable to only fund half of the solution, so
they were not going to pay for half of an appendectomy but would pay for the entire appendectomy.
Mr. Lynn indicated that if the experts say that both are needed, they would fund both, but would not
allow funding only half through political expediency. He stated that the experts had all found that
a realigned intersection and a roundabout were needed to address the issue, and they would fund both
or nothing.
Mr. Lewis stated his understanding that the other part of the project would be the realignment, and
this was confirmed by Mr. Hosfelt.
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EXCERPT OF FEBRUARY 28, 2017 COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE/
SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES PAGE 13
Mr. Anderson asked if anyone could answer the question about parking for Continental Park.
Responding, Mr. Hosfelt indicated that, at this time, the only information available were the opinions
of Mr. Jamison and Colonel Dix. Mr. Anderson advised that a plan was being looked at for that park
and that it would be appreciated if they tried to maximize parking in that area. Otherwise, he stated
that he thought the choice was pretty clear and that the City needed to accept the money and address
the issue.
Mr. Hosfelt stated that there was no action to be taken by the Committee at this point.
Mr. Cole moved for adjournment of the Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee
meeting, seconded by Mr. Hutchison and unanimously carried.
/dak
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\Council-Packets\2017\03-27-2017\ORIGINALS\02-28-2017 CCW-SA&T Minutes - Speed Control Measures - Independence
Boulevard - C. David Jamison.wpd
Attachments
Attachment #1 - A report entitled “Independence Boulevard Traffic Calming Measures Report,” received via email
from Mr. C. David Jamison on January 23, 2017
Attachment #2 - Correspondence and attachments dated February 27, 2017, addressed to the Office of the Mayor and
Council, provided by Retired Colonel Thomas J. Dix
Página 296
ATTACHMENT #1
Council Committee of theWhole Meeting of 02/28/2017
Inr£epenr£ence 'Bou{evarr£
'l'raffic Ca{ming Measures
'Report
Prepared by C. David Jamison, PE
cdjpe1@gmail.com
Página 297
Executive Summary
This report analyses whether the proposed Traffic Calming Measures for Independence Boulevard
were the correct treatments to reduce speeding traffic. A working group comprised of residents from
Bicentennial Village and DeiDOT developed the measures which included a "Realignment" at W.
Green Blade Drive and a "Round-A-Bout" at Colony Drive. The project was to be paid for by the
State of Delaware Community Transportation Funds.
The need for the measures are Speeding and Accidents as described in the minutes of the May 91h,
2016 City of Dover Annual Council Meeting with the Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee.
Through the FOIA process, copies of the Speed Study conducted by the City of Dover Police
Department and the accident history on Independence Boulevard were obtained.
The results were as follows:
• Speed Study
The speed monitor counted 26,300 vehicles over a one week period on Independence
Boulevard with an average speed of 29.1 mph
• Accident History
Contrary to what was said at the SA&TC meeting , there were no accidents on the section of
Independence Boulevard between Walker Road and the Greentree Shopping Center (see
Figure 1). The accidents occurred at the Independence Boulevard/Forest Avenue (Rt. 8)
intersection with the majority at the Olde Oak Shopping Center entrance/parking lot.
Therefore, there was no justification for the proposed Traffic Calming Measures (at an estimated
cost of $176,000) other than the problem of those drivers exceeding the speed limit by an average
of 5 mph. A more appropriate and cost effective solution is the installation of a Radar Speed Sign
which shows the drivers the speed they are traveling with a flashing LED lighted screen. This is a
known speed deterrent as described in the DeiDOT Traffic Calming Manual. The cost: $5,000.
Taking into account the negative impacts and significant costs the proposed Traffic Calming
Measures would have (as described in the report) it is recommended that the Radar Speed Sign be
used to slow the traffic to the 25 mph speed limit. This, in turn, will free up CTF funds for other
projects in need of road repair on the City of Dover municipal streets.
As a retired De/DOT Highway Engineer and currently a Traffic Engineer in private practice,
my primary focus is the safety of the traveling public. Such was the case in the preparation
of this report, taking into account the best interest of those drivers and residents using
Independence Boulevard on a daily basis.
January 23, 2017
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Table of Contents
Purpose……………………………………………………………………………….........................1
Origin…………………………………………………………………………………………………….1
Speed Study……………………….…………..…..………….…………………..………………..….1
Accident History……………………………….……………………………………,,………….……..1
Figure 1 Independence Boulevard Accidents ……………………………………………….……..2
.
Figure 2 Existing Traffic Calming Measures ……………………………………………….………3
Figure 3 Proposed Traffic Calming Measures………………………………….………….…..…..4
Figure 4 Realignment TCM at Independence Blvd/W Green Blade Drive..............................5
Issues
Continental Park Parking
Bikers
Snow Removal
Cost
Figure 5 Round-a-Bout TCM at Independence Blvd/Colony Drive………….......................…6
Issues
Safety (Vehicles, Bikes & Pedestrians)
Snow Removal
Cost
Figure 6 Potential Traffic Diversion to Bicentennial Boulevard………………………………….7
Figure 7 Alternative Traffic Calming Measure Radar Speed Sign………………….……….….8
Conclusions …………………………………………………………..………………………………..9
Recommendations………………………………………………………………………………..….11
Addendum
Greentree & Olde Oak Shopping Centers Entrances
Figure 8 Accident Potential…………………………………………………………………….…...12
Figure 9 Proposed Improvements………………………………………………..…….……….…13
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Purpose
This report evaluates the impact two proposed Traffic Calming Measures (TCM) will have on
Independence Boulevard, a City of Dover municipal street connecting Walker Road (Road 104) and
Forrest Avenue (Rt. 8). The road users affected by the proposals are: a. the residents of the adjacent
developments; b. drivers whose destination is to the Greentree and Olde Oak Shopping Centers located
at the intersection of Independence Boulevard and Rt. 8 ; and c. drivers avoiding heavily traveled Rt.
15 (Kenton Road).
Origin
The need for the TCMs was discussed before the Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee
(SA&TC) during the City of Dover Annual Council Meeting held on May 9 th, 2016 (beginning on page
28 of the minutes found on the City of Dover website). At the meeting Representative Sean Lynn stated
that residents of Bicentennial Village had expressed concerns of speeding and accidents on
Independence Boulevard. A working group was set up with DelDOT to look at traffic calming measures
throughout the neighborhood. The Traffic Calming Measures developed were an Intersection
Realignment at West Green Blade Drive and a Round-A-Bout at Colony Drive. Rep. Lynn noted that he
would pay for this project using his Community Transportation Funds (CTF) and that the project was a
portion of a two part traffic calming measure proposal (the second portion located on North State Street),
Speed Study
A Speed Study on Independence Boulevard was conducted by the City of Dover during the period from
May 12, 2015 to May 18, 2015. A Metro Counter was placed south of Colony Drive across Independence
Boulevard. The results of the Speed Statistics by Hour showed that for 26,300 vehicles, the Mean
(average) speed was 29.1 mph. It should be noted that at the time of the study, there was no yellow
center lane striping (installed 2016) which would have had a calming effect on the drivers.
Accident History
During the May 9th, 2016 Council Meeting with the SA&TC it was stated that there was an accident
problem on Independence Boulevard based on accident history: 3 in 2013; 2 in 2014; and 10 in 2015.
The redacted accident reports on Independence Boulevard were obtained via the FOIA. The results
showed that contrary to what was stated at the May 9 th meeting, there were no accidents on
Independence Boulevard. All but one accident were near the intersection with Forrest Avenue (Rt. 8).
Most were near the parking lot on the east side of Independence Boulevard where the Ace Hardware
Store is located. At the northern intersection of Independence Boulevard and Walker Road there was 1
accident in 2013, a vehicle hitting the Bicentennial Village Entrance Sign. See page 2, Figure 1 for
Accident History Locations.
1
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Figure 2
Independence Boulevard
Existing Traffic Calming Measures
3
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Figure 3
Independence Boulevard
Proposed Traffic Calming Measures
Locations
W Green Blade Dr.
Realignment
TCM
4
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Figure 4
Independence Boulevard/W Green Blade Drive
Realignment Traffic Calming Plan
Issues:
Continental Park is a City of Dover Park and used for outdoor events (ex. St. Johns
Church annual Field Days). The proposed Realignment TCM will eliminate 50% of
available parking that now exists on the east side of Independence Boulevard.
Bicycle users will have to negotiate thru the realigned intersection as opposed to
using the shoulders under existing conditions.
Snow removal by City of Dover-forces will be made difficult by the proposed islands
as part of the realignment TCM.
The cost of the proposed Realignment TCM will cost an estimated $ 54,000
5
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Figure 7
Alternative Traffic Calming Measure
Radar Speed Sign
DeiDOT's Traffic Calming Supervisor Mike Somers, who is coordinating the TCMs on
the Independence Boulevard project, has noted before to the City of Dover Council that
Radar Speed Signs ''have proven to be successful in reducing vehicular speeds'.
Radar Speed Signs may be purchased through the DeiDOT CTF process and provided
to the City of Dover for installation. The approximate cost would be $5,000.
Radar Speed Sign
8
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CONCLUSIONS
THE INDEPENDENCE BOULEVARD TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES REPORT evaluates the impact
the Proposed Traffic Calming Measures (PTCM) at West Green Blade Drive and Colony Drive would
have on the drivers of Independence Boulevard if implemented. The reasons for the proposed TCMs
were based on reported driver speeding and a history of accidents on Independence Boulevard as so
stated at the City Council 5/9/2016 meeting with the Safety Advisory & Transportation Committee
(SA&TC). The Report’s evaluation found the following:
Speed Study
The results of a speed study conducted by The City of Dover Police Department in 2015 showed that
the average speed was 29.1 mph. This was recorded prior to the placement of double yellow center
lines installed in 2016 which have a calming effect on the motorists. The results of the Speed Study did
not provide the justification for the construction of the PTCMs on Independence Boulevard.
Accident History
As mentioned above, at the SA&TC meeting a concern was expressed that due to the number of
accidents that reportedly had occurred on Independence Boulevard (15 accidents in 3 years) there was
an accident problem. The FOIA requested accident reports were evaluated and show that for the period
of 2013 thru 2016 the accidents that occurred on Independence Boulevard were at the intersection with
Rt. 8 and at the Shopping Center Entrances. See page 3 Figure 1 for accident locations.
PTMC Issues
Realignment at West Green Blade Drive (See Figure 4)
The plan calls for a stop condition with islands being placed on Independence
Boulevard. A major downside to this plan is the impact to the adjacent City of Dover
Continental Park. It would eliminate 50% of the parking on the Continental Park
frontage which is used during Park events.
Estimated cost $54,000.
Round-A-Bout at Colony Drive (See Figure 5)
This concept has been used to calm traffic at various locations in Delaware. Most of
them are used in developments or low volume roads. Independence Boulevard,
however, is a high volume roadway (4,500 daily trips+/-). A safety concern is, with the
volume of traffic on Independence Boulevard, that the 4 Way Yield scenario would
create accident potential due to human error (who goes first).
Estimated cost $122,000.
Loss of Shoulders for Bike Use and Difficult Snow Removal
9
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Proposed Alternative TCM
An alternative traffic calming measure is the Radar Speed Sign RSS as shown on Figure 7. Radar
speed signs give drivers notice that they are speeding by shifting the driver’s brain out of the alpha state
where the brain is aware but relaxed into the beta state where the brain is alert and focused. As a result,
the driver responds to the flashing speed alert and slows down as explained in the following diagram:
RSSs are known to reduce speeding on roadways as acknowledged by DelDOT. Examples can be
observed at the Radar Speed Signs located on both southbound North Governors Avenue and North
State Street to the south of the Governors Avenue / State Street / Walker Road intersection*. Drivers
see their speed blinking on the sign and slow to meet the posted 25 mph speed limit. Adding a camera
to the RSS would increase its effectiveness and should be taken into consideration in the final
determination of what is the appropriate action to take on Independence Boulevard.
* It should be noted that the existing North State Street RSS location referred to above and shown on
Figure 7 was the other portion of “the two (2) part traffic calming measure proposal” as stated in the
City Council 5/9/2016 meeting with the SA&TC and referred to in the Origin on page 1.
10
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RECOMMENDATIONS
In the final analysis, the speeding and accident problems that were the basis for the
Proposed Traffic Calming Measures on Independence Boulevard do not exist to the
degree that justify the use of the proposed Realignment and Round-A-Bout Traffic
Calming Measures. The problems they would create outweigh any benefits to the
residents of the adjacent communities or to the traveling public using Independence
Boulevard on a daily basis.
The cost difference between the proposed TCMs plans and the Radar Speed Sign is
a significant factor:
o Realignment at W Green Blade Drive $54,000
o Round-A-Bout at Colony Drive 122,000
Total Cost $176,000
o Radar Signal Sign $5,000
Selecting the Radar Speed Sign Alterative on Independence Boulevard would address the
“speeding” problem (average monitored speed 29.1 mph) and enable expenditure of
Community Transportation Funds on the city’s more serious transportation issues that require
attention.
Addendum The following Figures 8 and 9 on pages 12 and 13 illustrate a traffic problem at the
Greentree and Olde Oak Shopping Centers that could be corrected with pavement markings which
would designate needed left turn lanes to allow traffic flow thru on Independence Boulevard. As an area
with an accident history, CTF funds could be used to help remedy this problem.
11
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ATTACHMENT #2
Council Committee of theWhole Meeting of 02/28/2017
Thomas J. Dix
664 Independence Blvd.
Dover, DE 19904
February 27, 2017
Office of the Mayor and Council
City Hall
15 Loockerman Plaza
Dover, DE 19903
Dear Gentlemen,
Over a year ago I was appointed to a committee by the Mayor to work with Del DOT and State
Representative Sean Lynn along with Will Garfinkel and Doug Stamm to solve our traffic problems in
Bicentennial Village. The result of our work was presented by Del DOT to the Traffic and Safety Advisory
Committee and the full Council with open comments from residents and was approved on May 9, 2016 .
In January of 2017 I found out that the motion was flawed.
Sometime in January 2017, I received a draft copy of "Independence Boulevard Traffic Calming
Measures Report" prepared by C. David Jamison. It was dated and signed on January 10, 2017, and
sealed with a Professional Engineer Seal. He therefore could be held liable for any mistake he makes. I
am told he is a civil engineer, retired from DeiDOT. I have never met Mr. Jamison.
Even though he labels his report as "Traffic Calming Measures," Mr. Jamison does not adhere to the
definition of traffic calming from the Del DOT Road Design Manual. Quoting paragraph 10.2 of the
Manual:
"In communities where speeding and/or cut-through traffic has been identified as a
problem, it may be appropriate to consider the feasibility of one or more traffic calming
measures. Such measures are intended to encourage adherence to posted speeds
and/or discourage inappropriate routing of non-residential or non-local traffic through
communities."
In his report, Mr. Jamison's emphasis is totally on speed and there is no mention of traffic diversion. He
made a number of mistakes.
FIRST MISTAKE. Mr. Jamison miscalculates the number of parking spots lost due to the construction of
the realigned intersection on Independence Blvd. along Continental Park.
Actually, it is not a loss of 50%; IT IS ONLY a loss of 22% with the installation of the
realigned intersection. We still have 28 spots on the east side of Independence Blvd. at the park
and 20 on the west side.
SECOND MISTAKE. He states that single unit 30' length Trucks (ex. UPS) will be challenged making left
turns via the Round-A-Bout.
This is incorrect. This UPS truck can even make left turns around the Mifflin Rd.
roundabout, which has a much smaller diameter than the one approved for Independence Blvd.
Página 313
THIRD MISTAKE. He states that double yellow centerline striping would have a calming effect on drivers
using the roadway .
On the contrary, the latest Metro Count, taken in February 2017, shows that the average
speed on Independence Blvd. increased after striping.
FOURTH MISTAKE. He states that on a high volume road (5,000 daily trips+/-), which would be atypical
for the use of the type of Round-A-Bout being proposed, ... the 4 Way Yield scenario would create
accident potential.
A Federal Highway Administration circular states that the maximum flow rate is 1800
vehicles/ hour for a single-lane urban roundabout, such as the roundabout approved for
Independence Blvd. The Federal Highway Administration has also stated that roundabouts
reduce fatalities up to 90%, reduce injury crashes by 75%, reduce pedestrian crashes 30%-40% ....
{See Federal Highway Administration (FHWA} Transportation Research Circular E-C 018; also, the paper
"Capacity and Performance of Roundabouts: A Summary of Recommendations in th e FHWA Roundabout Guide," by
Kittelson & Associates, USA.}
FIFTH MISTAKE. Mr. Jamison recommends that an alternative to the proposed TCMs [traffic calming
measures] would be the installation of a Radar Speed Sign on Independence Boulevard and that these
are known to reduce speeding on roadways as acknowledged by DeiDOT.
But I refer to the De/Dot Traffic Calming Design Manual, page /11-9, regarding Radar
Speed Signs. Under the heading "Traffic Diversion," the manual states: "No impact." Under the
heading "Disadvantages," the manual states: "Impact may be reduced over time unless
regularly enforced by local police." Under the heading "Advantages," the manual states: "Can
cause speeds to be reduced within a community."
I will add, a single Radar Speed Sign only works in one direction!
I just want to set the record straight.
COL. USAF(ret.)
Página 314
SUBMITIED BY THOMAS J. DIX, February 27, 2017
MR. JAMISON'S REMARKS
"Continental Park is a City of Dover park and used for outdoor events (ex. St. John's Church annual
Field Days). The proposed Realignment TCM will eliminate 50% of available parking that now exists
on the east side of Independence Boulevard."
MY REBUTIAL
Between Continental Drive and Freedom Drive is just less than 800 feet. The realigned intersection
runs for less than 170 feet. Less than 22%. I personally talked to the teacher from St. John's during
her two-day outing at Continental Park. They walked from the school. Continental Park is listed as a
passive park by the city of Dover. Football and soccer practice used to take place there. I talked to
the coaches on a few occasions. They found the dog poop unacceptable. I believe it has been four or
five years since they used the field. They now practice in the field just north of Redner's. Mr.
Jamisqn wants us to believe that this class is one of many that use the park. The fact is that this was
the only use by an organized group in recent history. Nowadays, you will seldom, if ever, see a car
parked along here. This portion has the highest speeds of any part of Independence Blvd. That is
why it was chosen for this remedy. No permits were issued for use of Continental Park in 2016!
MR. JAMISON'S REMARKS
"Bicycle users will have to negotiate thru the realigned intersection as opposed to using the shoulders
under existing conditions."
MY REBUTIAL
Bicycles should by law use the ordinary road unless there is a designated bike lane. With a stop sign
as part of the realigned intersection, bikes have a better chance of being seen. Speeding will be
reduced and bikes will be safer.
MR. JAMISON'S REMARKS
"Snow removal by City of Dover forces will be made difficult by the proposed islands as part of the
realignment TCM."
MY REBUTIAL
I have lived on Independence Blvd since 1999. The snow removal crews have never hit the median
island. However, the marquee has been hit three or four times by ordinary drivers!
MR. JAMISON'S REMARKS
"Having four yield signs to control traffic thru the intersection creates an opportunity for bad
judgement/human error and potential vehicular and pedestrian accidents."
MY REBUTIAL
Roundabouts generally reduce deadly accidents, according to the Federal Highway Administration.
[See Mr. Jamison's remarks beginning "Round-A-Bout at Colony Drive" on p. 3 and my rebuttal.]
1
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MR. JAMISON' S REMARKS
"Snow removal by City of Dover forces will be made difficult by the proposed islands as part of the
Round-A-Bout TCM."
MY REBUTIAL
Snow removal will occur the same as at any other curve in the City. At the several other
roundabouts, collisions with the islands have not been a problem .
MR JAMISON'S REMARKS
"Single unit 30' length Trucks (ex. UPS) will be challenged making left turns via the Round-A-Bout.
Larger 3 or more axle trucks will have to reroute."
MY REBUTIAL
I have personally consulted the State publications. They indicate that a truck with a 35-foot
wheelbase can do a 360-degree turn on a 70-foot roundabout. Trucks are prohibited unless doing
local delivery on Independence Blvd. The longest wheelbase truck that normally transits
Independence Blvd is a school bus, with a 34-foot wheelbase. The three-axle fire dept. ladder truck
has a wheelbase under 35 feet. A UPS single unit, PlOOO truck has a wheelbase of 15 feet. Local
driver, John says he can take his truck around the current Mifflin Rd. roundabout . Tractor-trailers
can go straight through using the truck apron.
MR. JAMISON'S REMARKS
"DelDOT's Traffic Calming Supervisor Mike Somers, who is coordinating the TCMs on
Independence Boulevard project, has noted before to the City of Dover Council that Radar Speed
Signs have proven to be successful in reducing the vehicular speed."
MY REBUTIAL
I have personally reviewed the minutes of that May 9, 2016, council meeting and do not see those
words recorded. I have served on the Mayor's committee that worked with DeiDOT in developing
the traffic calming project. Douglas Stamm, who lives on Bicentennial Blvd., was also on this
committee. He recently wrote to me to tell me that the radar speed sign on Bicentennial Blvd. is not
effective. The major problem with the Radar Speed Sign is that it is passive. The driver can totally
ignore the sign. The State Traffic Calming Design Manual does not call the Radar Speed Sign
successful. It has no value for traffic diversion. It clearly states that police enforcing is required. In
addition, the sign only works in one direction!
MRJAMISON' S REMARKS
"There are two existing TCMs in place on Independence Boulevard, All-Way Stops at the
intersections at Freedom Drive and Continental Drive. In 2016 a double yellow stripe centerline was
installed on Independence Boulevard which has a calming effect on drivers using the roadway. The
speed study performed in May, 2015 (prior to the yellow centerline striping) showed that the mean
(average) speed of drivers was 29.1 mph."
2
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MY REBUTIAL
I do not understand the point of the above remark. The Mayor's committee requested the city to
paint the double lines. Painted lines are addressed in the State Traffic Calming Manual. They do
have effect but they are passive. Some drivers totally ignore them. I find a mean of 29.1 mph to be
totally unacceptable. We have halfthe people driving at 24.1 and the other half driving at 34.1. One
group being safe and the other group avoiding a ticket! The top 3% do not care about tickets. We
have cars clocked at over 39 mph on Independence Blvd. That is unacceptable. Recent metro count
on Independence Blvd in January 2017 shows increase in avg speed after yellow line striping. Traffic
Calming Design Manual, page 111-9, (attached) says they are ineffective for traffic diversion.
MR. JAMISON' S REMARKS
"The plan calls for a stop condition with islands being placed on Independence Boulevard. This gets
the drivers attention by the redirecting oftravellanes. A major downside to this plan is the impact to
the adjacent City of Dover Continental Park. It would eliminate 50% of the parking on the
Continental Park frontage which is used during Park events."
MY REBUTIAL
The fourth sentence should be at 22% not 50%. This topic was covered. There are no park events.
No permits were issued in 2016.
MR. JAMISON ' S REMARKS
"Round-A-Bout at Colony Drive
This concept has been used to calm traffic at various locations in Delaware. Most of them are used in
developments or low volume roads. Independence Boulevard, however, is a high volume roadway
(5,000 daily trips+/-) which would be atypical for the use of the type of Round-A-Bout being
proposed. A safety concern is, with the volume of traffic on Independence Boulevard, that the 4 Way
Yield scenario would create accident potential due to driver's decision-making-stress resulting in
human error (who goes first)."
MY REBUTIAL
The roundabout would increase the capacity of that intersection vs. the existing stop-start
condition. The Federal Highway Administration, Transportation Research Circular E-C 018 states that
the maximum flow rate for a single lane urban roundabout is 1,800 vehicles/hr. The F.H.A. has
stated that roundabouts reduce fatalities up to 90%, reduce injury crashes 75%, reduce pedestrian
crashes 30%-40%, and greatly reduce the severity of injuries sustained in crashes. Also,
roundabouts are used in most states and countries worldwide. Maryland, for example, has a policy
to use roundabouts instead of stop signs or traffic signals at every appropriate location. Since the
"give-way" rule was invented in the U.K. in 1966- there is no stress or confusion. Diverter islands
will be incorporated to make sure the driver does not try to make a left turn on entry. If national
accidents are reduced, I would expect that the stress factor is also lowered nation wide.
For further info:
Two attachments follow.
The first is Delaware roundabouts.
The second is federal roundabouts.
3
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MR. JAMISON'S REMARKS
"An alternative to the proposed TCMs would be the installation of a Radar Speed Sign on
Independence Boulevard. These are known to reduce speeding on roadways as acknowledged by
DelDOT. An example can be observed at the Radar Speed Sign located on southbound North
Governors Avenue just to the south of the State Street intersection. Drivers see their speed blinking
on the sign and slow down to meet the posted 25 mph speed limit.
"In the fmal analysis, the problems that the proposed Realignment and Round-A-Bout Traffic
Calming Measures create outweigh any benefits. That makes the cost difference between the
proposed TCMs plans and the Radar Speed Sign a significant decision making factor. .. "
MY REBUTIAL
The Traffic Calming Manual page 111-9 (attached) has two anticipated impacts for Radar speed signs.
Under Traffic Diversion: "No impact." [We are looking to reduce the bypass traffic.]
Under Disadvantages: "Impact may be reduced over time unless regularly enforced by local police."
[Note Doug Stamm's letter below.]
MY FINAL REBUTAL
A letter from Douglas Stamm, who lives close to the intersection of Bicentennial Blvd. and
Declaration Ave.
From: Douglas Stamm
To: Thomas J. Dix
Subject: Re: flashing radar sign
Tom,
Since the sign was installed, I have not noticed a significant difference in the behavior of drivers on
Bicentennial Boulevard. While it may cause some southbound (direction in which the sign is facing) drivers to
pay more attention to their speed, a majority of the cars heading South continue to exceed the posted limit.
Obviously, it has no impact on the vehicles heading North towards Walker Road nor has it impacted in any
manner the number of vehicles heading in either direction which ignore the stop signs at the intersection of
Bicentennial and Declaration ... regardless ofthe time of day/night, many vehicles run the stop sign with a
number ofthem being residents of this community. In theory, the speed limit sign was a good idea but that
is all it is ... it has not been an effective deterrent to excessive speed. The only effective deterrent to reduce
speed and sign violation is DPD presence but I doubt they have the resources to sustain their visibility for an
extended time period.
Doug
Please Note:
Doug Stamm, Will Garfinkel and Tom Dix were appointed by Mayor Christensen to work with
Del DOT to solve our traffic problems in Bicentennial Village.
The Traffic Calming Measures designed by Del DOT for Bicentennial Village were approved by
the City of Dover Traffic Advisory Committee and subsequently by the City of Dover Council with a
public hearing on May 9, 2016. In January of 2017 I found out that the motion was flawed. The
measures are fully funded with Community Traffic Funds from our State Representative and State
Senator.
4
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Why roundabouts?
Hundreds of communities throughout the United States are replacing regu lar
intersections with round abouts because they e:He often a sa fer way to move traffic.
Safer than traditional inters(~ctions Drastically reduces severe erash injuries
In a traditional four-way intersection, there are 32 The circulating movement o f roundabouts nearly
points of conflict in which two vehicles may collide . eliminat es the potential for high-speed, right-angle,
Roundabouts have only eig ht conflict areas, gre atly and left-turn/head-on collisions. Rea r-end collisions are
reducing the potential for crashes. also reduced in roundabouts . Crashes in roundabouts
are typically minor·, translating into less severe injuries
and property damage. National studies have shown
roundabouts provide a:
... -:1!> 90~{.'J red uction in fatal crashes
.:;.,~•• 75~1..) reduction in injury crashes
- -~ ,..,50~40°/o reduction in pedestrian crashes
---ll!!l~ 10°/<:> reducti on in bicycle crashes
Easier for beginning and senior drivers
Slower veh icl e speeds mean drivers have more time
t o judge and react. This is especially important for
beg innin g drivers and olde r drivers. A 2007 study by
the Univer·sity of D ela'nar·e looke d at the needs of older
drivers and recornrm:nded replaci n9 conventional
intersections w ith roundabouts, especially in areas
where there are large populations of seniors.
Página 319
Delaware Department of Transportation - Community Prog-rams and Services Page 1 of 1
Select Language l Y
Commu nity Programs and Services
Roundabout History
It all began around 1905 ...
Traffic cirCles have been part of the transportation system in the United States since 1905,
when the Columbus Circle designed by William Phelps Eno opened in New York City . After
that, many large circles or rotaries were built in Canada
and the United States . The designs at that time allowed
vehicles to merge and weave at high speeds . Entering
vehicles had the right-of-way , allowing high-speed
entries . High crash experience and congestion in the
circles led to rotaries falling out of favor in North America
after the mid-1950s. Internationally, the experience with
traffic circles was also bad , as many countries found that
traffic circles locked up as traffic volumes increased .
Changes in the United Kingdom created the mode rn roun dabout...
The modern roundabout was developed in the United Kingdom to fix traffic circle problems . In
'f.!eP 1966, the United Kingdom adopted a mandatory "~ ive-waf rule at all circular intersections that
r requ ired entering traffic to give way, or yield , to ct rculatmg1raffic. This rule prevented circular
intersections from locking up, by not allowing vehicles to enter the intersection until there were
enough gaps in circulating traffic. In addition, smaller circular intersections were proposed that
made vehicles turn more tightly, resulting in slower entry and circu lating speeds.
Modern roundabouts have improved traffic safety and traffic operations over older
circles... ·
These changes improved the safety of the circular intersection by reducing the number and
particularly the severity of collis ions . The modern roundabout is significantly different from the
· older traffic circle both in how it operates and in how it is designed . The modern roundabout is
greatly improved in terms of operations and safety, when compared with older rotaries and
traffic circles. Many countries have adopted the modern roundabout as a common intersection
form .
Modern roundabouts have improved environmental impacts ...
A well designed, strategically placed modern roundabout is better for the environment than a
signalized intersection because it creates shorter delays for motorists and shorter vehicle
queues. The longer delays associated with traffic signals result in more vehicles idling for
longer periods. Vehicles approaching a roundabout tend to arrive in a slow "rolling" pace rather
than the typical stop/start behavior at signalized intersections . This results in lower fuel
consumption. Recent stud ies have shown that idling vehicles emit larger amounts of some
types of pollutants than vehicles traveling at moderate speeds. Based on this finding, fewer
idling vehicles at a roundabout will result in lower emissions of certain pollutants than the same
traffic at a signalized intersection .
References : Federal Highway Administration , Rounda bouts : An Informational Guide , Report
No. FHWA-RD-00-067, June 2000 .
Página 320
Delaware Depmtment of Transportation - Community Programs and Services Page I of 1
Select Language v
Community Prog rams an d Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Once I'm in the roundabout, should I stop to let other vehicles enter the roundabout?
A. No, do not stop except to avoid a collision . You have the right-of-way over entering traffic.
Q. What determines the size of a roundabout?
A. Factors that determine the size of a roundabout generally include the amount of traffic, the
size of the largest vehicle , and an appropriate travel speed .
Q. Are roundabouts appropriate everywhere?
A. No. The choice of using a roundabout versus other types of traffic control is a case-by-case
decision .
--e--P.iii1V Q. I drive a big truck, and that roundabout looks awfully tight. Willi fit?
A. Yes. The roundabout is designed so that large trucks can traverse them . Most trucks, even
large ones, should drive on the travel lanes like most vehicles . Your trailer may track onto the
portion of the center island termed the "truck apron".
Q. What if an emergency vehicle comes through the roundabout?
A. If you have not yet entered the roundabout, let the emergency vehicle pass you . If you are
in the roundabout, continue on and exit as normal , then pull to the right where ther'e is room for
the emergency vehicle to pass . Do not stop inside the roundabout because you may block the
emergency vehicle .
c - ..Q. What about snow removal at roundabouts?
A. A number of communities in snowy areas have installed roundabouts, including Hamilton,
Ontario; Kemptville, Ontario; Howard (Green Bay), Wisconsin; Montpelier, Vermont; and Vail,
Colorado. All have indicated that while there are some changes at first for snowplow crews ,
there are generally no major problems with snow removal in roundabouts. In Howard ,
Wisconsin for example, one truck will start on the truck apron and plow around the roundabout
to the outside, while another truck will plow each entry and exit, pushing the snow to the
outside. Roundabouts make it easier to turn snowplows .
• - ' - . ... _1 _ 1. ___ . _J.C'.... ~ .... 1- ............ t ') / 0 / '){\ 1 ...,
Página 321
·- - - -····- ------ - - - ··-· · - -
DeiDOT Traffic Calming Design Manual Applications and Design
3A.2 NON-CONSTRUCTION MEASURES: Striping
Description:
Pavement strip ing as a means of controlling speed includes measures to effectively narrow the
travel lanes to encourage lower speeds, to emphasize pedestrian crossings, or to supplement
signing regulations (such as existing stop signs). Striping which can be used in traffic calming
includes centerline stripes, edge line stripes, crosswalks and stop bars at existing stop signs.
Pavement striping options can vary depending on the type of striping being used; therefore, the
application of each type of striping treatment is as follows:
-
---~NJ" Centerline Striping: Centerline striping is primarily used for
residential streets without existing centerlines. In many
cases, a centerline stripe can be effective in channeling
t raffic and thereby reducing speeds. There are also other
specialized striping techniques that can be used to draw
attention to lane markings, such as the addition of
reflective pavement markers where appropriate.
Edge Line Striping: Edge line striping is also effective in
residential areas to narrow the lanes and/or provide
additional delineation for other uses. Reducing the lane
width has the potential for reducing speed by creating a
narrower traffic lane. The area between the edge of the
road and the lane marking can often be used for parking or
as a bike lane, depending on the resulting shoulder width .
Crosswalks: At high volume pedestrian crossings, striped
crosswalks might be appropriate to channelize pedestrians
and notify motorists of pedestrians crossing the street.
Crosswalks alone may not provide the desired level of
protection or call sufficient attention to a pedestrian to
allow them to safely cross the street. Depending on the
need, there are a variety of crosswalk options that may be
used at intersections to identify the safest place to cross.
These include ladder-style striping and possibly the use of
textured pavements to increase visibility by the motorist
and encourage slowing .
Ill - 5 November 2012
Página 322
·-· ,
!
DeiDOT Traffic Calming Design Manual Applications and Design
Stop Bars: Stop bars may be added at intersections to reinforce
existing stop signs, with or without the addition of the word
"STOP" en the pavement surface. The use of "STOP" as a
pavement marking should be used primarily where there has
been a potentially correctable crash trend identified . Stop bars
will not be installed without a STOP sign, and any new STOP
signs must comply with the warrants and provisions of the DE
MUTCD.
Application·
types of Streets Appropriate for all streets, no limitation.
Speed Limits Appropriate for all speed limits, no limitation.
Design Vehicles Appropriate for all vehicles, no limitation.
Street Grades Appropriate for all street grades, no limitation.
Anticipated Impacts:
Safety: Striping can help increase awareness and visibility of pedestrians crossing the street. Jt
can also reinforce signing and help position vehicles in the street creating a safer envirbnm-e~:~t
for bicycle users.
Speed: Can help reduce speeds on streets by creating narrower travel lanes and increasing the
awareness of pedestrian crossings.
»traffic Qiversion: No impact on traffic diversion
Advantages:
• Centerline striping can be effective in reducing sideswipe accidents, as it channelizes traffic In
its own lane.
• Centerline striping can be combined with edge lines to create narrower travel lanes, which
subsequently help to slow traffic.
• Edge line striping may increase bicycle and pedestrian safety by moving vehicle traffic closer
to the centerl ine providing more shoulder space for bicycles and pedestrians.
• Crosswalks provide a visible pedestrian crossing, increasing pedestrian awareness and safety.
• Stop bars reinforce a stop sign location, and can augment the delineation of an intersection.
Disadvantages:
• Periodic maintenance of striping.
--•11!!P• Striping can lose its effectiveness in reducing speed over time as regular users of the street
become more comfortable with the physical space they have available to operate.
• Crosswalks used without other traffic control devices may lure pedestrians into a false sense
of security.
• Appearance of the road with paint striping may cause residents to feel that the road is a
higher classification than a loca l residential street.
Ill- 6 November 2012
Página 323
DeiDOT Traffic Calming Design Manual Applications and Design
3A.4 NON-CONSTRUCTION MEASURES: Radar Speed Signs
Description:
Radar Speed Signs involve the use of electronic speed detection radar equipment, mounted
along with the legal posted speed limit on a sign. The signs are placed along a road to increase
motorists' awareness of their speed through the corridor. The radar speed sign measures an
approaching car's speed and displays it in large, lighted numbers. It does not record the license
plate number or take pictures of violators . A Radar Speed Sign can also be mounted on a trailer
to allow the technology to be used as a temporary or short term installation. Since DeiDOT is
not funded to maintain Radar Speed Signs, they are only installed and replaced through CTF
funding.
RADAR SPEED SIGNS
APPlication·
Types of Streets Appropriate for all streets, no limitation.
Speed Limits Appropriate for all speed limits, no limitation.
Design Vehicles Appropriate for all vehicles, no limitation.
Street Grades Appropriate for all street grades, no limitation.
Anticipated Impacts:
Safety: Prom.otes safety by constantly reminding drivers when their speeds are excessive and
above the legal speed limit.
Speed: Can cause speeds to be reduced within a community.
• • tJrrraffic Diversion: No impact on traffic diversion
Advantages:
• Can be effective in reducing speeding by drivers. These signs are most effective when a
community is supportive and promotes the need for speed reduction through other
community educational efforts.
• Can be cost effective when compared with the construction of physical traffic calming
measures to reduce speed.
Disadvantages:
~ . Impact may be reduced over time unless regularly enforced by local police.
Ill - 9 November 2012
Página 324
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DOVER PUBLIC LIBRARY PASSPORT STATION
DOVER, DE
STARTED: XX/XX/XX
REVISION DATE/BY
REVISED: 2/9/2017
223 LISA DRIVE / NEW CASTLE / DE / 19720 SCALE: AS SHOWN
PHONE 800-690-9101 / FAX 302-323-9251 DESIGN ORDER # 133855
161 WASHINGTON STREET / SUITE 200 / CONSHOHOCKEN / PA / 19428 DRAWN BY: KJC
PHONE 800-690-9101 / FAX 610-631-2720
n:\STATE OF DE\DOVER PUBLIC
THIS FLOOR PLAN IS FOR FURNITURE USE ONLY. CORPORATE INTERIORS, INC. WILL NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR DRYWALL CONSTRUCTION, ENGINEERING, OR ANY CODE VARIANCES THAT REQUIRE A PERMIT. THE CLIENT AND CONTRACTOR MUST
ASSUME THIS RESPONSIBILITY. CORPORATE INTERIORS, INC. WILL NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OF BUILDING DIMENSIONS THAT DO NOT MEET STATE OR LOCAL ACCESS LAWS. THIS DRAWING IS TO REMAIN THE PROPERTY OF
CORPORATE INTERIORS, INC. UNTIL A FORMAL PURCHASE ORDER HAS BEEN PLACED WITH US. THIS CET DRAWING REPRESENTS GENERAL GRAPHIC IDEAS. THERE MAY BE VARIATION IN COLOR, TEXTURE, SCALE AND FINISH BETWEEN SAMPLES SHOWN
AND THE ACTUAL PRODUCT. REFER TO QUOTE FOR EXACT SPECIFICATION OF PRODUCT (STYLE NUMBERS, QUANTITIES, ETC) AND FINISHES.
Página 325
DEPARTMENT OF POLICE
Marvin C. Mailey 400 South Queen Street
Deputy Chief of Police Dover, Delaware 19904
302-736-7111
Fax: 302-672-1842
March 13, 2017
Ms. Traci McDowell
City Clerk
Dover City Hall
P.O. Box 475
Dover, DE 19903
Dear Traci:
The recent resignation of Retired Captain John Sigler created a vacancy on the Police Pension
Board. In accordance with Chapter 62 - Law Enforcement, Article III - Pension Plan, Division 2
-Retirement Committee, Section 62-102 (3), of the Dover Code, if an unscheduled vacancy
should occur among the elected members, a special election shall be called for the purpose of
filling the remainder of such term.
Pursuant to Chapter 62 – Police Department, Article III – Pension Plan, a request for
nominations was posted with an announcement of election to fill the vacancy on March 2, 2017.
One nomination was received, therefore, no election will be held.
I hereby nominate Retired Sergeant Steve Rogers to serve on the Pension Board, for the
remainder of Retired Captain John Sigler’s term commencing March 28, 2017 and ending
January 31, 2019 subject to confirmation of a voting majority of City Council.
If you need additional information, please call me at (302) 736-7100.
Sincerely,
Marvin C. Mailey
Deputy Chief of Police
Página 326
MEMORANDUM
TO: Members of City Council
FROM: Traci A. McDowell, City Clerk
DATE: March 27, 2017
SUBJECT: Special Election - First (1st) District Council Vacancy
(Term to Expire May 13, 2019)
In accordance with Article II - Mayor and Council, Section 13 - Vacancies; Forfeiture of Office;
Filling of Vacancies of the City Charter, a Special Election must be held to fill the vacancy created
by the resignation of Councilman James E. Hosfelt, Jr. since the vacancy is in excess of six (6)
months in duration. This position is for the First (1st) District City Council Seat with a term that
expires May 13, 2019.
The following dates are submitted for your approval relative to the Special Election:
Date of Election - Tuesday, May 16, 2017
The earliest the election can be held is Thursday, April 27, 2017, and the latest it can
be held is Friday, May 26, 2017.
Filing Petitions - Tuesday, March 28, 2017 through Friday, April 21, 2017 at 4:30 p.m.
This time frame allows approximately three and one half (3½) weeks for filing
petitions, three (3) weeks for campaigning, and two and one half (2½) weeks for
absentee voting.
Voter Registration Close - Friday, May 5, 2017
Voter registration (for the Special Election) shall close on Friday, May 5, 2017. The
State will continue to accept voter registration applications.
Oath of Office - Special City Council Meeting of Wednesday, May 24, 2017
Wednesday, May 24, 2017 is the soonest that the Oath of Office can be administered.
The above schedule is only a suggestion for Council consideration, but official action by Council is
necessary.
I suggest using The Elks Lodge #1903, 200 Saulsbury Road, as the polling place for the Special
Election. Newspaper notices for the filing petition dates will be prepared so that we can advertise
immediately following the Council Meeting (upon Council approval of the dates).
If you have any questions or suggestions regarding the above, please do not hesitate to contact me.
/tm
S:\CAFS\ELECTION RELATED\03-27-2017 Scheduling Special Election Memo to Council.wpd
Página 327
MAR 1 5 2017
. BBINS DOVER'S VOL. FIRE DEPT.
Since 1882
March 15, 2017
To : Traci McDowell
From ' AI Farl~
Reference : Judges for Special F1re Line Officer Election
Robbins Hose Company will have a special Fire Line Officer election on Monday, April17, 2017.
President Bashista is submitting the following recommendations to serve as election judges :
1. Mr. James Hurley
2. Mr. William Rhodes
3. Mr. Brian Wasko
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns regarding this matter.
CC: Brian Bashista
Carleton Carey, Jr.