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REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular Council Meeting was held on November 9, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. with Council President
Slavin presiding. Council members present were Mr. Anderson (departed at 8:46 p.m.; returned at
8:49 p.m.), Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil, Mr. Cole, Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Hare (departed at 8:24 p.m.; returned at
8:26 p.m.), and Mr. Hutchison. Mr. Lewis was absent.
Council staff members present were Police Chief Bernat, Mrs. Mitchell, Mrs. Townshend,
Fire Chief Hall, Mr. Koenig, City Solicitor Rodriguez, and Mrs. McDowell. Mayor Christiansen was
also present (departed at 7:39 p.m.).
OPEN FORUM
The Open Forum was held at 7:15 p.m., prior to commencement of the Official Council Meeting.
Council President Slavin declared the Open Forum in session and reminded those present that
Council was not in official session and could not take formal action.
There was no one present wishing to speak during the Open Forum.
The invocation was given by Reverend Theodore Henderson, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Hutchison moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously
carried.
Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Consent Agenda, seconded by Mr. Cole and carried by a
unanimous roll call vote (Lewis absent).
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 26, 2015
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of October 26, 2015 were unanimously
approved by motion of Mr. Neil, seconded by Mr. Cole and bore the written approval of
Mayor Christiansen.
PRESENTATION BY MAYOR CHRISTIANSEN - NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES (NLC)
MILESTONE AWARD
Mayor Christiansen presented the National League of Cities (NLC) Milestone Award to Council
President Slavin. Mayor Christiansen stated that he had accepted the award commemorating the
City’s 50 years of continuous membership and leadership in the NLC on behalf of City Council, City
staff, and the citizens of the City of Dover during the NLC Conference in Nashville, Tennessee. He
explained that in the early 1960s Mayor Crawford Carroll and members of Council worked to
establish the Delaware League of Local Governments (DLLG) and, as part of that organization, also
joined the NLC in 1965. Mayor Christiansen noted that NLC was an advocate group for cities and
towns across the country and the City’s participation was a great benefit.
Council President Slavin thanked all of the mayors and members of Council who previously served
and authorized the City’s membership in the NLC.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 2
PROCLAMATION - GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS (GIS) DAY AND
GEOGRAPHY AWARENESS WEEK
The City Clerk read the following Proclamation into the record:
WHEREAS, fascination with the earth’s geography inspired the early explorers of our country to
learn and record information about the surface of the land and its people, environments, resources,
political boundaries, and characteristics and today remains a fundamental part of our national
heritage; and
WHEREAS, geographic information has many useful applications for our municipal government
and is a valuable resource used in the analysis of infrastructure, emergency services, economic
development, and long-range planning; and
WHEREAS; Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology provides an efficient means of
managing geographic information and providing data that allows for effective decision-making and
improved delivery of services to the residents of the City of Dover and our surrounding area; and
WHEREAS, the City of Dover's GIS Division plays a vital role in the continued growth of the City
and has been nationally recognized for its outstanding efforts in the advancement of GIS and its
foresight in creating programs that can be used to better manage services in the City.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF DOVER,
DELAWARE, do hereby proclaim November 18, 2015 as GIS Day, and November 15 – 21, 2015
as GEOGRAPHY AWARENESS WEEK in the City of Dover and urge all residents to adopt the
national Geography Awareness Week theme, "Explore! The Power of Maps," and encourage all
citizens to participate in this special observance.
Mayor Christiansen presented the Proclamation to Mr. Jason Lyon, Water/Wastewater Manager,
Department of Public Works, noting the importance of GIS in the daily operations of the entire City.
On behalf of the Public Works Department and the GIS Division, Mr. Lyon thanked the Mayor and
members of Council. He reiterated that GIS is an important aspect of the City and informed
members that everyone has the ability to access it on their smart phone. Mr. Lyon stated that the
amount of material that can be used in GIS is limitless and that the City is going to strive to utilize
it as much as they can in the future.
PUBLIC HEARING - VIOLATION OF THE DANGEROUS BUILDING ORDINANCE -
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1032-1058 SOUTH DUPONT HIGHWAY, OWNED BY
BMDR LLC
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider a violation of
the Dangerous Building Ordinance at 1032-1058 South Dupont Highway, owned by BMDR LLC.
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, explained that
the property is a two (2) story, wood-framed/blocked commercial building. The structure was
condemned by City staff on September 3, 2014, due to possible asbestos contamination with
businesses located on the first floor of the structure. Renovations and asbestos abatement had begun
on the second floor without any permits and the abatement area was not properly contained, causing
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asbestos fibers to enter the business tenant spaces on the first floor. Walls were removed without
approved building plans or a building permit. Ultimately, the asbestos abatement was completed in
accordance with Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC)
requirements. Due to the removal of walls on the second floor, the City required a structural
engineering report prior to allowing the building to be occupied. Building plans prepared by a
licensed architect are required in order for the City to issue a building permit for renovations. To
date, building plans and a permit application had not been submitted. The electric and water services
were terminated on March 12, 2015. Currently the structure was registered as a vacant building, with
no utilities, and numerous outstanding code violations.
Mrs. Townshend reviewed a presentation depicting the condition of the structure (Exhibit #1).
Staff recommended that City Council take the following action for property located at 1032-1058
South Dupont Highway: 1) declare this building dangerous; 2) order the property demolished by
December 9, 2015 by the owner or equity owner at their own risk; 3) order the Building Inspector
to cause the demolition of the structure 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.
Mrs. Townshend stated that she and Councilman Hare met onsite with Mr. Robert MacLeish, Sr.,
Lighthouse Construction, Inc. on Friday, November 6, 2015. She noted that Mr. MacLeish was
working with the building owner, Dr. Ramani, and she expected that members would hear from the
owners during the public hearing about their plans and a request for time to make repairs.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Mrs. Townshend stated that Dr. Ramani was the same individual who
owned the building last year.
Mr. Sudler asked whether Dr. Ramani had provided an explanation as to why the building had been
vacant and not repaired within the last year. In response, Mrs. Townshend indicated that
Mr. MacLeish would probably address that question during the public hearing. She stated that
Mr. MacLeish and an architect had been working on building plans and it had taken more time,
noting that the nuisance condition had put the City in a tough spot regarding this building.
Mr. Hosfelt asked if there had been any criminal complaints logged with the Police Department
regarding this property. Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that she did not have any data from the
Police Department but the City had received complaints from the neighbors. She advised that the
impetus for the meeting on Friday, November 6, 2015 and this matter being brought forward to
Council was an email from a neighbor that was very constructive, but very critical of the time that
it had taken for the City to address the nuisance that the property is creating. Mrs. Townshend noted
that there may be neighbors present during the public hearing who can speak about the problems that
they are experiencing.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 4
In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Mrs. Townshend explained that the company that was doing the asbestos
abatement was licensed by DNREC; however, the company was not following the proper protocol
and, ultimately, the property owner is responsible. Mrs. Townshend informed members that there
was a Secretary’s Order from DNREC that specified how the asbestos clean up was supposed to
happen, and it was a multi-month process just to get the asbestos issue worked out.
Mr. Hare noted that, since his meeting with Mr. MacLeish on November 6, 2015 to discuss what
needed to be done and the expectation, he had been driving by the property on a regular basis. He
informed members that a new stockade fence was being put up across the back to separate the
property from the homeowners. Mr. Hare stated that it appeared that Miss Utility had been there
and sprayed where the lines exist. He indicated that there was another building on the property that
would be demolished; however, it was his belief that asbestos would have to be removed first.
Mr. Hare expressed his opinion that things had started going in a positive direction. He noted that
he had talked to some of the neighbors, some of whom had indicated that they were okay to a certain
degree; others said that they would wait and see. Mr. Hare stated that some of the neighbors were
concerned about homeless people walking through their backyards.
Council President Slavin declared the public hearing open.
Mr. Bob Hartman, 35 Lotus Street, Dover, stated that he had been to the property and they had begun
putting up the fence, but that was the only progress he saw. He informed members that Police Chief
Paul Bernat got Mr. Hartman’s neighborhood involved with the site next door, and the neighborhood
had been talking about vacant buildings and crime in their neighborhood. Mr. Hartman stated that
there were robberies, people going through cars, a break-in, vandalism, and spray painting in his
neighborhood and, although it might not seem like a lot compared to other neighborhoods, his
neighbors were concerned.
Mr. Hartman stated that his neighbors did not understand why the City had not taken action
regarding the property located at 1032-1058 South Dupont Highway. He informed members that he
was involved in the onsite meeting with the contractor and Councilman Hare and thanked
Councilmen Hare and Lewis, as well as Mayor Christiansen, for helping to bring this matter forward
to Council.
Mr. Hartman expressed his opinion that, so far, the owner of the property located at 1032-1058 South
Dupont Highway had been a very bad neighbor. Referring to the illegal asbestos abatement, he noted
that asbestos does not go away. Mr. Hartman indicated that if the owner were to look out the top of
the building, where the asbestos was illegally removed, he would see kids playing in the yards behind
the building. He stated that there was no fence that separated the yards from the building and
expressed his belief that the property owner would not want his kids there. Mr. Hartman stated that
the property owner needs to be a better neighbor, and Council needs to recognize that the City needs
to do their job and hold the owner’s feet to the fire to make him a better neighbor if he will not do
it on his own. He asked that if Council gives the property owner another chance, not to give him a
second chance and to follow through on this dangerous building and get it taken care of.
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Mr. Robert MacLeish, Sr., Lighthouse Construction, Inc., 859 Golf Links Lane, Magnolia, stated that
he had been involved with this project since mid-May. He was initially contacted to try to rectify
some of the issues on the property and, since that time, the asbestos removal had been completed and
approved by DNREC. Mr. MacLeish stated that a structural engineer reviewed the building and a
letter was submitted to the City regarding the structural soundness of the building. He explained that
they engaged the services of Moonlight Architecture on June 9, 2015 and the initial plan was to
renovate the existing building. Mr. MacLeish stated that there were a couple of challenges, including
the heights on the second floor, but by the first week of July, they had reviewed the budget with
Dr. Ramani and had a meeting with his real estate advisor, who indicated that he would have a lot
of trouble trying to rent the spaces on the first and second floor.
Mr. MacLeish advised that during the second week of September, the architect provided plans to
maintain the exterior walls of the structure and demolish the interior of the building. These plans
were then reviewed by the structural engineer. He stated that he had ongoing conversations with
Mrs. Townshend as well. Mr. MacLeish indicated that they were working through the process and
then the project came to a halt. Noting that he had been in this business for almost 40 years, he
explained that sometimes he has to wait on other individuals and it is just part of the process.
Mr. MacLeish informed members that since the onsite meeting, they had started putting up the
permanent fence behind the property and he hoped that it would be completed by
Wednesday, November 11, 2015.
Mr. MacLeish stated that they had received approval from DNREC for asbestos removal from the
other building on the property, which was not part of this request. He informed members that the
asbestos removal would be completed the following day and demolition would commence on
Monday, November 16, 2015 and, hopefully be completed just after Thanksgiving. Mr. MacLeish
indicated that they also got a construction fence which would be poured into the pavement. He
explained that this fence was approximately 800 feet long with two (2) main gates and would secure
the site. Mr. MacLeish stated that they coordinated with the City Fire Marshal’s Office to ensure that
access for emergency vehicles is maintained.
Referring to the primary building, Mr. MacLeish stated that bids were due by November 19, 2015,
and it was his hope that a contract would be awarded within one (1) week. He indicated that
demolition would take two (2) to three (3) weeks, depending on the weather. Mr. MacLeish stated
that the final building would be similar to the building that he recently completed on New Burton
Road. He noted that the project had been coordinated with the City of Dover, conservation, the
Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT), etc., in order to begin construction.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison, Mr. MacLeish stated that Fisher Environmental, LLC completed the
asbestos abatement and received all of the releases from DNREC.
In response to Mr. Hutchison regarding how long it would take to complete the construction of the
building, Mr. MacLeish stated that he expected it to be complete by the end of July 2016.
Mr. Anderson asked how valuable the building was and questioned the value in keeping the exterior
walls, rather than demolishing the entire building and building another structure. Responding,
Mr. MacLeish stated that he does not value the building, that would be done by an appraiser. He
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only looks at the construction cost. In regard to the plans for the current building, Mr. MacLeish
advised that there was nothing wrong with the slab or the exterior block walls, and it would be more
costly to demolish and rebuild the entire structure. From an economic sense, he would not
recommend demolishing a usable structure to any client. He stated that he is always challenged to
reuse everything possible.
Mr. Anderson asked, in addition to the fencing, if there were other security plans, such as security
cameras, that would make the residents feel more secure. In response, Mr. MacLeish stated that
there was currently a fence located on the rear property line, separating the residents from the
property. He noted that the fence would be extended and they would be putting up a six (6) foot tall
fence as well. Mr. MacLeish stated that the entire site would be enclosed and secure, noting that
there would be a lock with a key pad to allow for emergency access if needed. He explained that
they did not plan on installing any cameras; however, there would be temporary lighting. He noted
that, with the exception of the exterior walls, there was really nothing on the site and someone would
have to climb over a six (6) foot tall fence to gain access.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison, Mr. MacLeish confirmed that he had a contract with the property
owner to do the project from start to finish.
There being no one else present wishing to speak, the public hearing was closed.
Mr. Neil reminded members that the City is faced with similar problems with individual homes and
other dangerous buildings. He stated that the problem with this commercial property had existed for
quite some time and there was no sense of responsibility or penalty. Mr. Neil noted that
Mr. Hartman pointed out that there was no concern or sense of urgency on the part of the property
owner. Mr. Neil expressed his opinion that the City needs to set an example by telling this property
owner to get this building done quickly. It was his feeling that the City should demolish this
building and set an example. He stated that the City needs to do what it is supposed to do with
individual homes, landlords, and slumlords, as well as this property owner who, as a doctor, should
know better and have a sense of civic responsibility.
Mr. Hosfelt asked Mr. Hartman if the completion date of July 2016 would be acceptable to the
neighborhood. Responding, Mr. Hartman stated that he could not speak for all of the neighbors that
are concerned with this property, but that July seemed like a reasonable date to him. He informed
members that the neighbors were more interested in the measures that were discussed to keep people
out of the property, including lighting, fencing and security. Mr. Hartman noted that there were
police reports regarding people stealing metal out of buildings on this property, and the neighbors
had called the police numerous times regarding the property. He stated that there had been talk about
putting up no trespassing signs as well.
Mr. Slavin asked Mr. Hartman if he felt that it would be fair if Council allowed additional time to
complete the project, per the suggested timeline, and also established control dates to bring this
matter back to Council for progress reports and to ensure that the timeline is being enforced. In
response, Mr. Hartman echoed Mr. Neil’s comment that Council should be prepared to make an
example. It was Mr. Hartman’s opinion that Council should be establishing a timeline for all
properties like this and holding the owners accountable, noting that this was not a unique problem
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for his neighborhood but something that impacts the whole City. He stated that he would like to see
the City go after these things uniformly, and not pick and choose who is squealing the loudest and
go after that project.
Mr. Slavin stated that he appreciated Mr. Hartman’s perspective. He explained that one (1) of the
conundrums for Council is that when a dangerous building comes forward for final action, it is
sometimes the first time Council is hearing about it. Council’s tendency has been to find a
reasonable conclusion and provide additional time, when in fact staff has been working the issue for
many months, giving extensions and being patient, before finally bringing the matter forward to
Council.
Mr. Hartman expressed his opinion that it is a great idea to bring these matters before Council with
the suggestion to demolish, as was initiated with the property this evening.
Mr. Sudler asked if Mr. Hartman would be comfortable if the property owner had an onsite security
officer for the premises. Responding, Mr. Hartman noted that no one in his neighborhood had ever
mentioned a security officer to him and he could not answer the question without first asking his
neighbors. He stated that there would be a community meeting on November 19, 2015 at 7:00 p.m.
at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 113 Lotus Street and everyone was welcome.
Mr. Hutchison shared Mr. Neil’s concerns; however, he thought that this situation was changed by
the fact that Mr. MacLeish was involved. He stated that he had known Mr. MacLeish for a long
time, and he is well known as an outstanding businessman in the community. Mr. Hutchison
expressed his opinion that if there were an opportunity for this building to be saved, Council should
consider that and keep the property on the tax rolls. He noted that this situation is different from the
typical dangerous building Council considers because Mr. MacLeish has a contract to do the job.
Mr. Hutchison expressed his hope that Council would support giving this matter back to the City
Planner to make sure that the requested timeline is followed. He stated that he knows, first hand,
the reputation Mr. MacLeish has and assured members that he will do what he says he is going to
do. Mr. Hutchison thought that it was unfortunate that the doctor chose to wait so long, but Council
had an opportunity and responsibility to save the building, if possible.
Mr. Hare stated that he also knew Mr. MacLeish. He reminded members that Mr. MacLeish just got
involved with this property in May and had already accomplished many things that needed to be
done. Mr. Hare stated, from a fiscal point of view, that the City would be cutting off its nose to spite
its face by tearing the building down, because once the building is done it will be a first class
building, and the value will be something the City will want to have on the tax rolls. Mr. Hare
agreed that Council should monitor the progress and request an update by the end of January.
Mr. Neil stated that this issue was about the property owner and what the owner did not do, not about
Mr. MacLeish.
In response to Mr. Neil, Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, stated that taxes were currently being
collected on this property. Mr. Koenig stated that the only penalties for the owner not following up
with the City were fines and the threat of demolition and a lien being placed.
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Mr. Neil reiterated that there is a point where the City has to be responsible and say no. He stated
that if it is a valuable piece of property, another building would eventually be constructed and the
property would be an income producer.
Mr. Anderson stated his belief that the Council needs to follow certain principles, noting that there
are many abandoned properties in the City and that is where demolition money is focused. When
there is a private sector property owner willing and committed to repairing and upgrading a property,
Council gives a reasonable opportunity for repairs with enhanced oversight, and that had worked
quite well for the City. Mr. Anderson stated that if the City were to demolish this property just to
send a message, it would cost approximately $60,000 and expend all but approximately $7,000 of
the City’s demolition budget. He stated that if it becomes necessary he would be fine with the City
demolishing the building, even if the money had to be appropriated; however, as long as the site is
secure, he did not think it was necessary. Mr. Anderson expressed his hope that the owner would
consider adding some digital video recording (DVR) cameras as well. He stated that, as long as the
site is secure and progress is made, the problems will disappear and there will be something much
better that will add value to the City.
Mr. Hare moved to declare the structure located at 1032-1058 South Dupont Highway a dangerous
building; order that the property be repaired or demolished by July 1, 2016 by the owner or equity
owner at their own risk; order the Building Inspector to cause the demolition of the structure 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; and that progress reports be provided at the Council Meetings scheduled for
January 11, 2016, March 14, 2016, and June 13, 2016. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hutchison.
Mr. Cole asked if there would be benchmarks for progress, whether the extension would continue
if progress was not made because of weather, if there would be penalties if progress was not made,
or if Council would simply receive an update and it would be completed in July. Responding,
Mr. Hare stated that members of Council would have to use their judgement. If there is 58 inches
of snow in the next six (6) weeks and no progress to report in January, Council would have to allow
for that; however, if Mr. MacLeish indicates in January that he resigned because he was not being
paid, then Council can make a determination.
The motion to declare the structure located at 1032-1058 South Dupont Highway a dangerous
building; order that the property be repaired or demolished by July 1, 2016 by the owner or
equity owner at their own risk; order the Building Inspector to cause the demolition of the
structure 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; and that progress reports be provided at the
Council Meetings scheduled for January 11, 2016, March 14, 2016, and June 13, 2016 was
carried by a roll call vote of five (5) yes (Anderson, Sudler, Hare, Hutchison, and Slavin), three
(3) no (Neil, Cole, and Hosfelt), and one (1) absent (Lewis).
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Mr. Hutchison requested Mr. MacLeish to notify the City immediately in the event that he is no
longer part of the project. Responding, Mr. MacLeish stated that he would absolutely notify the City
right away.
Referring to benchmarks, Mr. MacLeish stated that he would submit a schedule to Mrs. Townshend,
noting that in addition to the timeline mentioned previously, the demolition work for the interior of
the structure would be completed by mid-December. He stated that he would also attend the
community meeting on November 19, 2015 at St. John's Lutheran Church to let the citizens know
what was going on. Mr. MacLeish thought that the citizens would be able to share any other issues
with regard to the security of the site that he is not aware of.
Mr. Sudler asked that the owner keep in contact with a point person in the neighboring community,
share information, and try and keep everything transparent, since he is a neighbor and members of
Council are concerned about the constituents in the City of Dover. Mr. Sudler also asked that
members of Council receive the schedule once it is submitted and noted that he would be visiting
the site.
SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE REPORT -
OCTOBER 26, 2015
The Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee met on October 26, 2015 with
Chairman Hosfelt presiding.
Discussion - Prohibited Speed Reduction Devices
Chairman Hosfelt explained that this item was the result of a discussion that took
place at a neighborhood meeting at the Greentree Shopping Center involving the
owner of the property as well as business owners. Crime issues and speed reduction
devices were discussed. Mr. Hosfelt indicated the desire to hear from the public
regarding the problems that they were incurring.
Mr. John Anstine, JBA Properties, 1460 Russell Road, Paoli, Pennsylvania, advised
members that JBA is the property manager for the Greentree Shopping Center. He
indicated that there is a service road in back of the shopping center that extends from
Redner’s Warehouse Markets to PNC bank between Independence Boulevard and
Kenton Road that has become a major cut-through road. Mr. Anstine explained that
the space is very tight in that area and tenants must cross over the road to access their
dumpsters. He noted that there is a lot of traffic on the road and people drive very
quickly. Mr. Anstine expressed his opinion that speed bumps would help to slow
people down or deter them from going through there in the first place.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Anstine stated that, as property manager, he favored
speed bumps and noted that although traffic is supposed to be one-way traffic
heading west from Independence Boulevard, people disregard the “Do Not Enter”
sign and travel in both directions.
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Mr. Hutchison stated that there had been previous discussion about changing the
dumpsters around to reduce drivers’ ability to get through the service road easily and
questioned if that had been done. Responding, Mr. Anstine stated the need for
18-wheeled trucks to get through since trucks back in to the loading dock at Redner’s
and then head out to the west. He noted that some trucks do an illegal U-turn and
then go back out.
In response to Mr. Hutchison regarding which businesses have large tractor trailers
coming in, Mr. Anstine indicated that Giacomo’s Pizza Delight and the UPS store
receive deliveries from these large vehicles.
Mr. Hutchison stated that speed bumps had been discussed for many years; however,
they do not work well with fire and paramedic apparatuses. He indicated that he very
strongly supported measures other than speed bumps.
Mr. Anstine stated that his township in Pennsylvania uses speed bumps on municipal
roads, noting that they do slow the traffic in neighborhoods. He indicated that they
were open to other ideas to slow people down as well.
Mr. Keller stated that his only objection was that emergency vehicles would run into
a problem. He questioned how visible the one-way sign was and whether enforcing
it or putting another sign up would help. Responding, Mr. Anstine stated that there
was only one (1) sign, and it was clearly visible and met specifications, estimating
that it was approximately 18 inches wide by two (2) feet tall. He noted that the
ground is also stenciled; however, he expressed his opinion that people do what they
want to do. Mr. Anstine explained that the service road previously allowed two-way
traffic until Redner’s opened and he felt that people have this ingrained in their
minds.
Responding to Mr. Keller regarding the traffic in front of the stores, Mr. Anstine
stated that pedestrian crossing signs were put out, which helped; however, sometimes
people speed through and there is only so much that can be done. He noted that
people sometimes run over these signs and do not even know that they have done so.
Mr. Shelton stated that he goes by the area all the time; however, he had not seen the
signs. He asked if there was a sign that says “For Deliveries Only.” Responding,
Mr. Anstine stated that they used to have a “Do Not Enter, Authorized Vehicles
Only” sign that was up for years. A truck ran over it and he had it removed and it
was never replaced.
Mr. Ed Trumble, Owner, Integrity.PC.Computers, 59 Greentree Shopping Center,
advised members that he had concerns not only with the back of the store but also the
front. He indicated that he is usually there six (6) or seven (7) days per week, over
12 hours per day, and had been at that location for over one (1) year. He expressed
his opinion that it is very dangerous to park in the front lot or to try to cross in the
back to take trash out. Mr. Trumble stated that there are three (3) or four (4) one-way
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arrows and a “Do Not Enter” sign. There is no speed limit sign out back, but he
questioned if this would matter since it is private property and the police would not
issue a ticket anyway. Mr. Trumble stated that there is a 15-mph speed limit sign in
front of his store; however, he indicated that speeders are not ticketed.
Mr. Trumble advised members that there were speed bumps in Rodney Village, less
than five (5) miles away, and in Milford and Christiana and that these speed bumps
work. He noted that the police, fire services, and paramedics can function in those
municipalities and questioned why they could not do so in Dover. He felt that an
ounce of prevention was worth a pound of cure and questioned what would be done
when someone gets hurt. Mr. Trumble indicated that he has senior citizen customers
that come from as far at Milford to use his services, and he sometimes has to help
them carry their equipment in and out and the drivers don’t seem to care. He stated
that there had been several instances of crime in the shopping center lately and felt
that speed bumps would make it less easy for those involved to get in and out, noting
that they might not even come if there are speed bumps. Mr. Trumble felt that this
was something that needed to be looked at and addressed since the problem was
getting worse.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Trumble stated that the problem increases in the fall
when football teams practice on a nearby field, although more football participants
had been parking on the main road rather than in the back lately. He suggested that
more yellow striping, like that around fire hydrants, could be added so that motorists
do not park so close to the drive. Mr. Trumble noted that he currently has to go
beyond the parked vehicles to look left and right to see what is coming before he can
cross to dump his trash. He advised members that people are using the service road
as a thoroughfare to go from one (1) road to the next, noting that he had observed
three (3) or four (4) cars in a 10 to 15 minute period passing through to avoid an
intersection or going through the front of the shopping center.
Ms. Susan Whitney, Something Unique, 61 Greentree Drive, stated that customers
come from as far as Salisbury, Maryland, and Wilmington to her establishment and
have problems crossing the street without somebody hitting them. The stylists who
work there also complain about almost being hit by cars. Ms. Whitney felt that this
was definitely a problem that was getting worse. In addition, she stated that she
recently saw a man beating a woman in front of the store and had to call the police.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt as to whether her problems were only related to traffic in
the front of her store, Ms. Whitney stated that when big tractor trailers come to the
back area, she cannot get into her parking space. When backing out to leave, she
notices that the football families sometimes leave a lot of trash and park in such a
way that it is hard for her to back out. Ms. Whitney confirmed that the service road
is used as a thoroughfare to go from one (1) side to the other by those who do not
work or live there. She noted that people come and dump their trash in the store’s
trash cans as well.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 12
Responding to Mr. Keller regarding whether the nature of the problem in the front
was disregard for the people crossing or speed, Ms. Whitney stated that it was a
combination. She noted that one (1) lady hollered out, “I don’t stop for pedestrians.”
Ms. Whitney indicated that there were elderly clients, 80 or 90 years old, that try to
cross. She stated that kids also ride their skateboards and bikes on the sidewalks,
which could become an issue if an elderly client is hit.
Referring to the photo of a device that was similar in nature to a portable speed
bump, Mr. Hosfelt advised members that this type of speed bump would allow heavy
apparatus to cross. He stated that this example was provided by Council President
Slavin and forwarded to the City of Dover Police Chief and Fire Chief.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison as to whether these devices were being used in
Delaware, Mr. Hosfelt stated that he was unsure and that this would be a better
question for Councilman Slavin. Mr. Hutchison stated that he liked the idea.
In response to Mr. Keller, Mr. Hosfelt indicated that he was unsure about the
installation of these bumps or if they were just laid down.
Mr. Cole advised members that these devices had been looked at with respect to State
Street and the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) had indicated that
these types of devices were being used in upstate Delaware.
Fire Chief Mark Hall expressed his belief that South Governors Avenue had these
speed cushions and indicated that the Fire Department was not, at this time, opposed
to them. He stated that speed bumps are permanent and that national response time
is reduced seven (7) to 11 minutes with the installation of speed bumps, and noted
that two (2) firefighters in Dover had been injured by them. Chief Hall indicated that
they liked the idea of speed cushions since the wheel base of an apparatus can get
through. He stated that he had done some research and it looked like the cushions
are bolted to the ground with an eyebolt and, although he was not completely sure,
he felt that the City would be able to remove them for snow removal. Chief Hall
noted that different types of devices are offered by different companies, stating that
the cushions are a speed calming device, whereas a speed bump is more of a speed
reduction device. He reiterated that Capitol Park on South Governors Boulevard had
them and advised members that the Fire Department had been there for fires in the
past and had one (1) issue involving a loose eyebolt that got caught in the wheel well
and ended up in someone’s yard.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt regarding the devices on South Governors Boulevard,
Chief Hall stated that they were similar to those pictured but smaller and for use in
developments. He was unsure if they were yellow striped, but indicated that they are
accessible to the fire apparatus and wheels can be put between them when traveling
through them. Chief Hall indicated that the firefighters’ injuries referenced
previously were both leg injuries but was unsure of the location of the speed bumps
involved. He stated that Kentwood Mobile Home Park has permanent speed bumps
and there is a great reduction in the Fire Department’s rate of response once they
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 13
enter that development. The fire apparatus must come almost to a full stop, and it
takes some time to get it back up to speed. Chief Hall stated his belief that the
national average response time mentioned previously was based on speed bumps on
more open, residential streets as opposed to developments, noting that the current
discussion was about private property. He reiterated that he did not have an issue
with speed calming devices.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Chief Hall clarified that the areas he had mentioned were
outside the City of Dover limits and its police jurisdiction, but within the Dover Fire
Department’s jurisdiction.
Captain David Spicer, Dover Police Department, stated that he had spoken to Police
Chief Paul Bernat, who indicated that he was against speed bumps and speed
cushions. Captain Spicer stated that they would reduce response time, maybe by
seconds, which in their line of work could mean the difference between life and
death. He indicated that Chief Bernat had mentioned to him that the City of
Harrington was using similar devices and it was his belief that they had worked there;
however, it was his understanding that a snow plow had damaged one (1). Captain
Spicer noted that if they are fastened to the ground with eyebolts that work their way
loose, there could be potential injuries to pedestrians, motorists, and vehicles.
Captain Spicer stated that, at this time, they were against this approach.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt, Captain Spicer confirmed that the Police Department was
against these devices on both private property and public roadways.
Mr. Sudler inquired if there were any other mechanisms that residents may be able
to utilize to decrease the speeds that the Police Department would favor.
Responding, Captain Spicer stated that approximately one (1) month ago, he attended
a meeting where different ideas were discussed for Independence Boulevard,
Bicentennial Village, and North State Street. The pros and cons of speed cushions,
traffic redesign to divert traffic around objects or slow it down, and traffic islands
were discussed. Captain Spicer felt that Chief Bernat would be in favor of a traffic
circle similar to that on Mifflin Road, which seemed to slow a lot of traffic in that
area.
Captain Spicer noted, in regard to signage at the Greentree Shopping Center, that the
Police Department is limited in the number of traffic laws that they can enforce on
private property, and that inattentive driving, driving under the influence (DUI), and
reckless driving on private property could be enforced.
Mr. Hosfelt stated that he would like the Committee to continue this discussion after
a couple of months, which would allow him time to do further research, especially
in regard to speed cushions. He stated that this subject would not be put aside and
was worth investigation. He expressed his thanks to Captain Spicer, Chief Hall, the
business owners who participated, and the property manager from Greentree
Shopping Center. Although the discussion had concentrated on speed bumps,
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Mr. Hosfelt expressed his understanding that some who were present had other
concerns regarding crime and stated that he was sure Captain Spicer would make
himself available to them regarding any concerns.
Request for Waiver - Appendix B - Zoning, Article 5 - Supplementary
Regulations, Section 17 - Emergency Access Requirements - Waiver of
Emergency Rear Access Requirement for Blue Hen Apartments Phase 2
(Application S-15-12)
Mrs. Dawn Melson-Williams, Principal Planner, reviewed a request from Blue Hen
Apartments, LLC, located behind the Blue Hen Corporate Center, for a waiver of the
requirement for a 16-foot alley or a 18-foot secondary fire lane and a 18-foot
subgrade emergency access lane as emergency access to the rear building areas for
two (2) and three (3) story apartment buildings. Mrs. Melson-Williams explained
that a site plan had been filed to expand this community of apartment complexes to
include 12 additional apartment buildings, two (2) at the intersection of Blue Hen
Boulevard and Haslet Street and the remaining buildings in a straight line, running
parallel to the Blue Hen Corporate Center building.
Mrs. Melson-Williams reviewed a site plan depicting the proposed layout, noting that
all of the buildings had a 24-foot fire lane crossing in front of the main entrances to
the buildings. In some cases, given the position of the building, the building would
either back up to another street or there would be a secondary driveway in close
proximity. Mrs. Melson-Williams advised members that the Planning Commission,
in reviewing the application, looked at the overall layout as well as the comments
provided by the City Fire Marshal’s Office. She noted that, due to their size, the
buildings were required to be sprinklered.
Mrs. Melson-Williams noted that there is a fire lane coverage percentage requirement
for the front of the building. Fire lanes must be marked on the ground surface, and
the buildings are required to have a fire alarm system and a Knox box safe; therefore,
they have a high level of fire protection required by other regulations beyond the
requirements of the zoning ordinance. She reiterated that the applicant was seeking
relief from the secondary rear fire access requirement for either an alley or another
fire lane and advised members that the waiver request had been presented to the
Planning Commission and members recommended approval.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison, Mrs. Melson-Williams confirmed that the waiver was
supported by the Fire Marshal’s Office, noting that they were fairly comfortable that
the other fire prevention regulations specific to the building construction, including
a sprinkler and fire alarm as well as the primary fire lane across the front, would be
adequate for response to that type of building.
In response to Mr. Hutchison as to whether a legal opinion had been obtained from
the City Solicitor’s Office approving the waiver and in regard to any liabilities,
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that the zoning ordinance established that this was a
waiver that could be asked for. She explained that the review process is that the
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 15
Planning Commission makes a determination which goes through the Committee,
with final action by City Council. Mrs. Melson-Williams indicated that she was
unsure if the liability question had ever been posed in this regard.
Noting that waivers had been granted previously, Councilman Anderson questioned
what the history had been and if there had been any problems. Responding,
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that she was not aware of any problems. She stated that
the most recent waiver approved was probably in the Leander Lakes apartment
complex, which was now under construction on the west side of Dover High Drive.
Mrs. Melson-Williams indicated that the Leander Lakes building project was very
similar, sought the same waiver, and was successful. The Leander Lakes project was
a three (3) story apartment building with a sprinkler, fire alarm and a front primary
fire lane but no ability to provide the rear access via an alley or secondary fire lane
due to the layout of the complex. She stated her belief that the existing Blue Hen
Apartments project, which was a little older in its construction, also received this
waiver previously.
Mr. Anderson inquired if this regulation was outdated due to the current technology
in designs, or if this was a unique situation. Responding, Mrs. Melson-Williams
stated that staff had come across this situation in multiple instances and had seen a
lot of requests for waivers of the rear emergency access provision for apartments,
which also applied to townhouse developments. Staff had identified this as one (1)
of the sections of the zoning ordinance that needed review. Mrs. Melson-Williams
indicated that technology had improved and there were other fire protection
requirements and regulations that would greatly supersede and probably be more
beneficial than additional pavement to the rear of these units.
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, expressed her hope that the safety of the
public is looked at when approving these waivers, noting that the requirements were
included in the code for public safety. She stated that she was speaking as a member
of the public and that this was not a professional comment.
Responding to Mr. Sudler’s request for elaboration on her comment, Mrs. Mitchell
stated that the purpose of the requirement was for safety equipment to get in and out,
rather than public access and egress, or to allow two (2) entrances or exits in case
there was something that caused an unsafe environment. She also expressed concern
that if some of the streets were narrowed, fire apparatus could not get around and
maneuver as well, and this was why she felt the provisions were in place.
In response to Mr. Sudler as to whether Mrs. Mitchell was saying that if the waiver
were granted some apparatus would not be able to have access, Mrs. Mitchell stated
that she was not sure but, as a citizen, she felt that there was a need to make sure that
these issues could be handled when making these decisions.
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development,
stated that the waiver ability is in the zoning ordinance, so that if it is determined it
would not compromise public safety to waive the alley requirement, members had
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the ability to do this. In addition, she noted that the section of the zoning ordinance
that requires rear access behind apartments predates a lot of the current fire protection
regulations and was much more relevant at a time when buildings were not required
to be sprinklered. Mrs. Townshend stated that there were a number of cases where
waivers had been granted, including townhouse developments such as Senator’s
Lake, off Silver Lake Boulevard, which subsequently sprinklered the townhouses
voluntarily. She indicated that this was not an uncommon waiver.
Fire Chief Mark Hall stated that he had discussed this with the Fire Marshal, and he
advised members that without a rear access, the Fire Department could not access the
rear of the building, unless they physically walk a 24-foot or 35-foot ground ladder
to that side of the building. With respect to the 16-foot to 18-foot alley, Chief Hall
stated that it takes anywhere from 20 to 24 feet to set up a ladder truck. In his
opinion, eliminating the rear access would be a life safety issue, noting that if
someone’s apartment was on fire and they were on their balcony or hanging out their
window, this would thwart the Department’s response to them. Chief Hall indicated
that, although the Fire Department would get to them as fast as they could on foot,
it would be a lot better with a ladder truck, especially when someone is panicking.
In regard to sprinklers for fire protection, he noted that recently there was a fire at
Luther Towers and another at Legislative Hall where sprinklers did not activate. He
indicated that the sprinklers in place do not always work and he asked members to
take that into consideration.
In response to Mr. Sudler regarding how far it would be necessary to walk and carry
a ladder to the rear area, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that new fire prevention
regulations require that plans provide perimeter access around the buildings. She
estimated that, in most cases, 40 to 50 feet would get firefighters around the short end
of the building to the rear. Mrs. Melson-Williams explained that in some situations,
there is either another street or another circulation path that covers another side of the
building or the rear of the building, depending on the specific building.
In response to Mr. Hutchison regarding the cost of an emergency rear access,
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that she was unsure of the cost. She stated that, in the
case of this project, it would be a paved, hard surface and she was unsure that there
was space to physically construct it, which would mean a total redesign of the
project, depending on which building was being looked at. Mrs. Melson-Williams
reiterated that some of the buildings had two (2) means of coverage, including a
24-foot fire lane across the front of all of the buildings, which is the main entry into
these buildings and where the Fire Department connection is located.
Mr. Anderson questioned how far the front of one (1) building is to the rear of
another and if there was complementary access. Responding, Mrs. Melson-Williams
advised members that there were two (2) different situations in this apartment
complex. She stated that in one (1) area, the buildings are in a line, the spacing
distance between individual buildings was specified in the code, and a second
roadway goes between two (2) of the buildings. In the other area of the apartment
development, the two (2) proposed buildings were flanked in the rear by either a
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 17
street or another existing drive aisle. Mrs. Melson-Williams indicated that there
would be some measure to get to the full back and full front of the building. There
was capability to get to the full front on the long strip of buildings, but there would
not necessarily be access to the rear on the main line of apartment buildings as
proposed.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt as to what is at the rear of the development,
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that there is a green, open space area at this location
and a pedestrian path a little further away. She expressed her belief that there was
a graded swale between the path and the building within that 40-foot area.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt, Chief Hall stated that access was not something that the
brush truck could handle but, if needed, the Fire Department could get the ladder
truck behind the area. He noted that the ladder truck would jump the curb and tear
up some of the property, but they would do this in order to get to someone needing
assistance.
Responding to Mr. Sudler regarding what kind of damage this would do to the
apparatus, Chief Hall estimated possible damage from $10,000 to $50,000.
In response to Mr. Sudler regarding the width of the roads in the plans,
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that the drive aisle in the upper left corner, where
parking is located in front of the buildings, was a 24-foot-wide, two-way path of
travel. These would be the primary fire lanes, which were required to be 24 feet, and
there were additional paved areas with parking spaces which could be utilized if there
were no cars parked there. She noted that one (1) of the buildings backed up to Blue
Hen Boulevard, which was a public street and closer to 30 feet in width.
Fire Chief Hall stated that the diagram appeared very similar to Bay Tree
Apartments, where the front apartment building did not have front access and the rear
apartment building did not have rear access. He indicated that the Fire Department
would have to take pre-planning measures and would figure it out. He noted that the
Fire Marshal had provided him information regarding a turn-around at this location,
which was a big help.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison as to whether there were after-hours staff or security
people at the location, Mrs. Melson-Williams indicated that the Blue Hen Apartment
complex had on-site property management, but she was unsure of their work hours
or overnight staffing. She indicated that an on-site property office and leasing facility
currently manages Phase 1 and would also manage Phase 2.
Mr. Hutchison stated, for the record, that he had the opportunity to personally go out
and look at the Blue Hen Apartments, both at day and night, and felt that the
operation was very impressive and absolutely first class. Based upon what he had
seen personally, he stated that he supported the request.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 18
Mr. Hutchison moved to recommend approval of the request for a waiver of the
emergency rear access requirement for Blue Hen Apartments Phase 2, seconded by
Mr. Keller.
Mr. Keller indicated that his seconding of the motion was based on Mr. Hutchison’s
statement.
The Committee recommended approval of the request for a waiver of the emergency
rear access requirement for Blue Hen Apartments Phase 2.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Committee's recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Cole and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Lewis absent).
Briefing on Dover/Kent County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)
Projects - Capital Gateway Study Presentation (Rich Vetter)
Mr. Rich Vetter, Executive Director, Dover/Kent County Metropolitan Planning
Organization (MPO) reviewed a presentation, entitled “Capital Gateway Study.” He
advised members that the MPO had been involved in a planning study, along with
the City’s Planning Department, for the past month with regard to the area including
Division Street from Salisbury Road to State Street and Forest Street from its split
from Division Street down to the Duncan Center. The purpose of the study was to
develop a land use and transportation master plan for this area. Mr. Vetter explained
that the most important part of the study would be to provide a gateway to downtown
from the west, which was lacking. He indicated that there was currently no identity
or theme in terms of land use and transportation for this area and the goal was
beautification, enhancements in streetscapes, and a land use vision. Mr. Vetter
explained that the existing land use in this area was mixed and included vacant
parcels and areas that were not aesthetically pleasing, and it was desired to develop
the gateway theme to present to future developers and property owners in the area.
He indicated that landscaping and beautification could be considered, potentially
extending what currently exists on Loockerman Street westward.
Mr. Vetter stated that community input was being sought, noting that so far, based
on local information, they had heard that bicyclists and pedestrians were an important
aspect of the plan, and there could be maintenance and parking improvements as
well. He informed members that a charrette process would be used to solicit
community involvement, explaining that a charrette is a condensed, hands-on,
multi-day planning process which is something of a magic marker session for the
community. In a three (3) or four (4) day period, the goal would be to progress from
a blank piece of paper to something that could be presented as a community vision.
Mr. Vetter stated that public participation was planned for Monday, November 16th;
Tuesday, November 17th; and Thursday, November 19th, probably from 5:00 to 7:00
p.m., at the Inner City Cultural League at 54 South Kirkwood Street. He informed
members that, during the past couple of weeks, there had been meetings with
stakeholders such as Councilman Anderson, the Delaware Department
of Transportation (DelDOT), the Delaware Transit Corporation, the Downtown
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 19
Dover Partnership (DDP), residents, and business owners to get input in preparation
for the charrette. Mr. Vetter indicated that flyers would also be going out in the next
couple of weeks and it was hoped that there would be a lot of media coverage.
Mr. Anderson encouraged members to provide input, noting that the questions asked
would be valuable and the opportunity to provide constituent input was important.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Vetter stated that business owners and residents in
the area would be notified. He stated his belief that Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend,
Director of Planning and Community Development, would direct mail to every
business and property owner.
Briefing on Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) Projects
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development,
stated that she had received an update on transportation projects from the Delaware
Department of Transportation (DelDOT) and there was not much to report since the
previous update provided during the Committee’s meeting of July 27, 2015. She
stated that it was a pleasant surprise that the Bicycle and Pedestrian Program at
DelDOT was getting some unexpected funding, which would help with some of the
projects on the City’s priority list, including planning for the Senator Bikeway, which
would help with the construction of sidewalks within the walk zone of the new Dover
High School. Mrs. Townshend noted that U.S. 13 sidewalk construction would also
be addressed through this funding.
In regard to matters for future discussion, Mr. Anderson advised members that
concerns were heard at a recent neighborhood watch meeting about shots being fired
and confusion about how to identify where they are coming from. He stated his
understanding that there was a State program called Shotspotter that involved grants
and wondered if it had any use or viability. Mr. Anderson stated that the program
seemed to have pluses and minuses to it.
Mr. Hosfelt stated his belief that the City of Wilmington had looked into the
Shotspotter program at one point.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for acceptance of the Safety Advisory and Transportation
Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Cole and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Lewis
absent).
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
REPORT - OCTOBER 26, 2015
The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee met on October 26, 2015
with Chairman Hare presiding.
Benchmarks Established for the Economic Development Office
Mr. Bill Neaton, Economic Development Manager, advised members that the
Economic Development Office provides a semi-annual review of the benchmarks
established for the Economic Development Office.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 20
With respect to the Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP), Mr. Neaton indicated that
the History, Heritage and Hops event, which was held in conjunction with the Dover
Days Festival, and the Merchants Committee’s recent OktDoverfest brought
thousands of people to the downtown area. He noted a survey of downtown
merchants was finished earlier in the day and results would be reported at the next
meeting.
With respect to downtown Dover business growth, Mr. Neaton stated that there were
currently two (2) new large Downtown Dover Development District (DDD) projects.
He explained that a health care provider would become a tenant of the second floor
of the Priscilla Building at 152 South State Street in late November and there was a
potential tenant for a portion of the downstairs area of this building that was formerly
occupied by a restaurant. Another large project was the Grey Fox Grille and Public
House. He stated that a number of DDD initiatives had helped the downtown area
and several businesses were utilizing them.
In reference to City-wide economic development, Mr. Neaton stated that four (4)
out-of-town businesses were considering moving to Dover, including a boiler-making
company and several developers out of New York City.
In regard to strategic objectives for Fiscal Year 2015- 2016, Mr. Neaton stated that
he had met with Mr. Brian DiSabatino, President and Chief Executive Officer of
EDiS Company, regarding assistance with marketing the Garrison Oak Technology
Park (GOTP) and was also scheduled to take a trip there with Ms. Bernice Whaley,
Director, Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO), to determine how the
GOTP could best be marketed. Mr. Neaton indicated that the GOTP would be
featured on DEDO’s website as the primary location for business growth in
Delaware.
Mr. Neaton stated that Calpine had been in commercial operation since the first part
of June at the GOTP and was in the PJM grid for a 500 MW plant, noting that a
second plant could be built on a 37-acre parcel of land at the location. He noted that
a ribbon cutting was held for the Uzin Utz facility in early October and they had been
so successful that they were getting ready to add a second shift of workers.
Mr. Neaton stated that Advantech, Inc. hoped to move forward with building
construction at the GOTP after the first of the year.
Status of Discussion Items Proposed During the FY 2015/16 Budget Review
Proposed New Revenue Sources
Members were advised that during the FY-2016 budget hearings City Council
directed staff to review various City operations and submit requests for potential
revenue sources. Staff requested suggestions internally regarding revenue sources
and/or cost recovery sources.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 21
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development,
informed members that Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, was unable to be present
and that she and Mr. Kirby Hudson, Assistant City Manager, would be reviewing the
proposed suggestions.
Mrs. Townshend stated that four (4) fees were being proposed as new revenue
sources, three (3) from the Planning and Inspections Department and one (1) from
the Customer Services Department. She advised members that two (2) of the
Planning Department fees were for Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO),
noting that the current fee for a residential TCO was $40 dollars. Mrs. Townshend
explained that a TCO creates a lot more work for City staff in terms of tracking,
noting that there can be loose ends when projects sit on a TCO for much longer than
they should. She advised members that other jurisdictions charge more for a TCO
and limit the amount of time that it can be applied, which discourages people from
keeping projects on a TCO indefinitely. Staff recommended a $75 fee for a
residential TCO and a $100 fee for a non-residential TCO. Under this proposal, a
TCO would be valid for a maximum of 45 days and the fee would be paid for each
renewal.
The Planning and Inspections Department also suggested that the City implement a
fee for Zoning Verification/Administration Interpretations. Mrs. Townshend advised
members that zoning verification letters are often requested by property owners who
need an entrance permit from the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT),
and these letters may also be needed for settlement or refinancing of property. She
stated that the letters take a lot of staff time and there is currently no charge for this
service; however, nearly all other jurisdictions charge a fee. As an example,
Mrs. Townshend explained that she recently completed a request that involved doing
research on 15 properties and preparing 15 letters, and this service was performed at
no charge. Staff recommended implementing a $50 fee to capture the cost of the
service.
In regard to the Customer Services Department, Mrs. Townshend informed members
that staff suggested that the City implement a $1.00 charge for a copy of a utility bill.
She indicated that customers often come to Customer Services to pay a bill and
request a copy of the bill to take to the cashier to pay. Mrs. Townshend stated that
private utilities charge for this and suggested that implementing a charge may reduce
the workload because customers may not continue to request copies. This charge
would at least allow for the City to recover the cost when this service is provided.
Mrs. Townshend explained that Mr. Koenig’s conservative revenue estimate for the
utility bill copies was $10,000 dollars, since approximately 118 extra utility bills are
printed each day, which would annualize to $26,000 dollars. Since it was believed
that fewer people would request copies if the fee were implemented, this number was
projected to decrease.
Staff recommended adoption of the referenced fees, to be implemented on
January 1, 2016.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 22
Responding to Mr. Sudler regarding the proposed fee for zoning verification letters,
Mrs. Townshend stated that there was currently no charge for this service and a $50
fee was recommended.
Mr. Anderson expressed his opinion that the proposed adjustments were reasonable
and a good balance, noting his desire for there not to be too big of a jump or burden
on individuals and businesses in these times, and indicated that he liked the proposal.
Mr. Hudson advised members that Customer Services would be looking at other fees
to bring forward to the Committee at a later date. He noted that in many instances
staff has to run credit reports, and this need is often attributed to those who habitually
pay late or have been cut off. Credit reports may also be used to determine the
reliability of new customers. Mr. Hudson stated that those costs were currently being
borne by the City. He also indicated that late fees were a little low and that
municipalities smaller than Dover were charging a lot more for late fees, noting that
the desire was not to make income but to cover costs.
In response to Mr. Cole regarding the number of credit reports done per year or
month, Mr. Hudson stated that he did not have this information but offered to provide
it the next time this was considered. He indicated that the last figure he saw was in
the thousands.
Mayor Christiansen asked why the two (2) fees that Mr. Hudson mentioned were not
being considered at this time, noting that they reflected the cost of doing business.
Responding, Mr. Hudson stated that he was recently assigned oversight of the
Customer Services Department and was shocked to find that these things were not
being done.
Noting that the City was losing revenue, Mayor Christiansen asked why these
additional fees were not included for consideration. He expressed his opinion that
the City should not take half steps but should either be a business that serves the
community or not charge anything, and Mr. Hudson agreed.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen regarding the percentage of customers that would
be adversely affected by the suggested fees, Mr. Hudson stated that all customers
would be affected and estimated that 25% or 30% were “frequent flyers.” In
response to Mayor Christiansen as to whether this was due to inability to pay or
because these individuals do not accept adult responsibility, Mr. Hudson stated his
opinion that the City had been very lenient.
Mrs. Townshend stated her belief that most of the issues currently being discussed
were related to item #2B - Review and Maintenance of Fees - Planning and Customer
Services Departments, which was the next item on the agenda, and the current item
under discussion was the $1.00 charge for a copy of a utility bill. She stated that the
effect on a typical customer would be that they would be charged $1.00 if they do not
have their bill.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 23
In response to Ms. Maucher, Mr. Hudson confirmed that credit checks were
performed to determine whether a deposit is required. He explained that there are
certain parameters and a certain scale, and if a score comes in very low because the
customer habitually does not pay their bills, then their deposit will be higher than
someone with stellar credit.
Ms. Maucher stated that there was an obligation to serve, so regulated utilities
generally look at the customer’s payment history. If they have been late, the deposit
is the equivalent of two (2) months of their annual usage. If there is no history, they
can charge their deposits. She thought it was curious that the City found it necessary
to run credit checks.
Mrs. Townshend advised members that Customer Services requires a standard
deposit; however, the amount of that deposit may be reduced for a customer who has
not had an account with the City and has good credit. If the customer has a poor
payment history with the City, running the credit report will not help.
Mrs. Townshend stated that the customer benefits from the City running the credit
report, and the idea was that this cost should be borne by the customer.
In response to Mayor Christiansen, Mrs. Townshend confirmed that running the
credit report would be a new source of revenue and Mayor Christiansen expressed
his opinion that it could, therefore, be discussed under item #2A - Proposed New
Sources of Revenue and Mr. Hudson’s recommendation should be considered.
Mr. Sudler noted, in regard to deposits, that in the past if a previous occupant had a
bill of $300 or $400, the deposit for the next occupant was almost doubled or tripled.
Responding, Mrs. Townshend advised members that the deposit was based on the
customer’s history, not the history of the customer’s unit. Mr. Sudler requested that
staff double check this to make sure, noting that he is a landlord and had heard within
the last two (2) to three (3) years that the previous occupant’s history had been
considered, which he felt was unfair.
Mr. Hudson explained that a large deposit is required for those with poor credit to
carry the cost and provide something to fall back on if the customer decides to leave
without paying.
Mr. Sudler asked what score would determine whether someone has good or bad
credit. He expressed his opinion that most people do not have good credit for
different reasons, noting the many recent foreclosures. Mr. Sudler stated his desire
to make sure that the City is fair and, at the same time, that costs are covered. He
thought that a reasonable credit score of at least a C rating should be required, but not
an A1.
Mr. Hudson stated that the scores used by the City are within the same limits and to
the regular standards that the banks or others would use. The idea was to be fair and
follow the same policies that other lending institutions might use but to cover costs.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 24
Mr. Hudson stated that the amounts outstanding for people who had skipped out were
in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Mr. Sudler moved to recommend adoption of the referenced fees, to be implemented
on January 1, 2016, as recommended by staff.
In response to Mr. Cole, Mr. Sudler confirmed that the recommendation included the
fees for credit checks and the additional items discussed.
Mr. Anderson asked if there was an amount for the credit check fee.
Mrs. Townshend recommended, since Mr. Koenig had done the research on this and
was not present, that this item be removed from the November 9, 2015 City Council
Consent Agenda so that the fee could be included and this item could get the proper
airing at the Council meeting.
Mr. Anderson stated that the concept of a credit check fee was good but that the
amount would matter.
Mr. Sudler withdrew his motion to recommend adoption of the referenced fees, to be
implemented on January 1, 2016, as recommended by staff, and including the fees
for credit checks and the additional items discussed.
Mr. Hudson stated his belief that the cost for a credit check was $10.
Mr. Anderson felt that $10 or $15 was not an unreasonable fee.
Mr. Hare asked if the hundreds of thousands of dollars that were owed by customers
had been given over to a collection agency. Mr. Hudson confirmed that this had been
done and that he and Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, may be looking for
a new collection agency, preferably one (1) that might be able to go outside the
boundaries of the State to pursue those who might have fled to other places.
Mr. Sudler moved to recommend adoption of the referenced fees, to be implemented
on January 1, 2016, as recommended by staff, and to add a credit check fee of $20,
seconded by Mr. Cole.
Mr. Slavin encouraged incorporating built-in escalators to the fee increases so that
it would not be necessary to come back and make amendments as the costs driving
the fees increase. For instance, rather than putting a specific amount on the credit
check fee, he suggested passing the cost of the credit report along to the customer,
so that as the cost goes up, the customer’s fee would increase.
In response to Mr. Slavin, Mr. Sudler stated that the motion was only proposing to
pass through the amount the City is charged for a customer.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 25
Mr. Slavin suggested an amendment to the motion to say that the fee would be
whatever the cost of the credit report would be.
Mr. Sudler inquired if 60 days’ notice would be given to residents when these
changes are made. Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that the changes would
require adoption of an ordinance that would have a first and second reading. The
fees would become effective January 1, 2016, which would give staff an opportunity
to communicate information about the fees and put notices up at Customer Services
stating that copies of utility bills would cost $1.00.
Responding to Mr. Hare as to whether Customer Services can provide an account
balance without printing it, Mrs. Townshend explained that a Customer Services
representative can do this; however, a printed copy of the bill must be presented to
the cashier with payment.
Mr. Hudson advised members that individuals can look up information for
themselves at the kiosk at any time.
Mrs. Townshend stated that customers can print their own bills from the City’s
website as well.
Responding to Mr. Hare, Mrs. Townshend stated that Customer Services
representatives cannot take cash.
Mr. Hudson encouraged members to go by and take a look at the Customer Services
area, noting that new walls had been put in and the design was different. He
indicated that security improvements were being made and Advantech, Inc. was
currently putting in new security doors, etc. Mr. Hudson explained that only those
who work with cash will have access to the back area where cash goes in and out.
Mr. Cole stated that an amendment to the motion was needed for the credit check fee
to read “will covers costs as is.”
Mr. Hare indicated that staff time was involved in addition to the credit check cost,
noting that $20 would include a little bit extra over a $10 or $15 credit check cost.
Responding, Mr. Hudson stated that one of the supervisors advised him that once the
credit report is in hand, it could typically take 15 to 20 minutes to process the
customer. He believed that $20 would adequately cover not only time spent with that
customer, but also the paper and other things that are associated.
Mrs. Townshend suggested setting the fee at cost of service plus 10% or 15%.
Mr. Hare suggested that the fee be set at the cost of service plus $10.
Mr. Anderson felt that this fee was not unreasonable.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 26
Mr. Sudler moved to amend the motion to specify that the fee for credit checks be set
at the cost of service plus $10, seconded by Mr. Cole and unanimously carried.
The Committee recommended adoption of the referenced fees, to be implemented on
January 1, 2016, as recommended by staff, and to add a credit check fee at the cost
of service plus $10.
During the Regular Council meeting, Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, stated that staff had
developed several proposed revenue sources. New fees were proposed for temporary certificates of
occupancy for residential structures at $75 and non-residential structures at $100, zoning
verification/administration interpretations at $50, and copies of utility bills at $1.00. He advised
members that during the Committee meeting, members also discussed instituting a credit check fee
at the cost of service plus $10 for the administrative processing. Mr. Koenig advised that the
estimated value of these new revenues would be approximately $31,760.
Mr. Neil moved for acceptance of the Committee’s recommendation to adopt the referenced fees,
to be implemented on January 1, 2016, as recommended by staff, and to add a credit check fee at the
cost of service plus $10, seconded by Mr. Hutchison.
Mr. Anderson stated that he was pleased that the City did not try to raise the fees too high, too fast,
noting that many of the proposed fees had not changed in a decade. He expressed his opinion that
the increase was fairly conservative and congratulated staff on making sure that economic growth
was not hampered by the need to keep pace with cost. Mr. Anderson stated that he was not big on
increasing fees and taxes; however, he would support the proposed fees because he thought that
staff’s reasoning was valid.
The motion for acceptance of the Committee’s recommendation to adopt the referenced fees
(Exhibit #2), to be implemented on January 1, 2016, as recommended by staff, and to add a
credit check fee at the cost of service plus $10 was carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Lewis
absent).
Review and Maintenance of Fees - Planning and Customer Service Departments
Members were advised that during the FY-2016 budget hearings, City Council
directed staff to review various City fees and submit recommendations for
consideration by City Council. Several fees in the Planning and Inspections and
Customer Service Departments were recommended for increases.
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development,
reviewed the recommended proposed fee increases and the estimated annual revenue
from the increases. She explained that the recommendations relating to the Customer
Services Department were to increase the returned check fee from $25 dollars to $40
dollars and to increase the after-hours utility reconnection fee between the hours of
5:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. from $50 to $100, because staff was being paid overtime,
on-call pay, or callback pay to reestablish that service.
Staff recommended adoption of the referenced fee changes, to be implemented on
January 1, 2016.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 27
Ms. Maucher questioned if a cost-of-service study was done to determine rates,
noting that $100 for an after-hours utility reconnection seemed low. Responding,
Mr. Hudson stated that the desire was not to become so high as to make money. He
stated that the $100 fee had been discussed with the Customer Services Department
and this was believed to be a fair amount. Mr. Hudson advised members that this
amount would cover the cost.
Mr. Hare asked if $100 would cover all of the expenses to call someone in to turn on
service.
Mrs. Townshend stated that typically when someone is called in they are not just
reestablishing one (1) service.
Concurring, Mr. Hudson stated that there would be a list of locations, perhaps a
hundred for each employee.
Mr. Hare questioned what would happen if this service was needed for only one (1)
person.
Responding to Mr. Cole as to whether staff tried to schedule multiple reconnections
at the same time, Mrs. Townshend stated that with the number of cuts that the City
does, the need would be for more than one (1) reconnection.
Ms. Maucher questioned why there were so many after-hours reconnects and how
many of them were typically done. Responding, Mr. Hudson stated that he could
provide this information, noting that the number varies. He stated that most
reconnections are done during the day; however, there are times when staff has to go
out after 5:00 p.m.
Responding to Ms. Maucher as to why reconnections cannot be deferred to the next
day, Mr. Hudson stated that these needs occur either because staff may have not been
able to get to them or the reconnection was scheduled after the daily schedule was
prepared. Mrs. Townshend explained that this sometimes has to do with the time that
the customer brings their account current, noting that if this is done in the afternoon,
the reconnection cannot be scheduled for that afternoon.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Hudson and Mrs. Townshend expressed their belief
that after-hours utility connections would be done between 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
and no later than 9:00 p.m.
Mr. Hosfelt asked if there were crews that work 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. and if this
would be overtime or on-call. Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated her belief that
this would be overtime but indicated that this could be verified before the Council
meeting.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 28
Mr. Hosfelt stated his belief that $100 would not come close to covering the cost of
on-call pay and call-out pay on top of that, if he was recalling the union provisions
correctly. He felt this amount seemed low.
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, stated that $100 would probably just
cover a meter reader’s cost with benefits. She expressed doubt that it would cover
an International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) union member, such as
a line crewman, etc., noting that gas and equipment would have to be covered.
In order to ensure fairness, Mr. Sudler felt that there should be a time frame specified
for when the $100 fee would be charged after the customer brings their account
current, such as after 3:00 p.m.
Mrs. Townshend explained that staff goes out around 7:00 a.m. to do disconnects.
Customers begin calling when Customer Services opens at 8:30 a.m. People who
bring their accounts current in the morning can be scheduled for reconnection in the
afternoon. If they do not come in until the afternoon, staff’s afternoon reconnection
schedule is already full and additional reconnections are done in the evening. When
they come in to pay, customers are told what the connection fee will be.
Mr. Sudler asked if there was a fixed time frame indicating, for example, that if the
customer comes in after 12:00 p.m. they are subject to the additional charge.
Responding, Ms. Townshend stated that this information could be provided at the
City Council meeting. Mr. Hudson stated his belief that it was around 11:00 a.m. or
11:30 a.m.
Mr. Sudler noted that 11:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. were still in the morning.
Responding, Mr. Hudson stated this was getting into the afternoon and people would
be taking lunch.
Responding to Mr. Hare, Mrs. Townshend stated that the reconnection rate was $50
during normal working hours.
Mr. Sudler felt that charging the higher fee after 12:00 p.m. would be fair because
this would be considered the afternoon.
Mr. Hudson stated his belief that 11:30 a.m. was the cutoff for adding new people to
the list before staff goes out for the afternoon.
Mr. Sudler felt that the 11:30 a.m. deadline should be posted so that the constituents
of Dover are aware. Mr. Sudler stated that his desire was to ensure that all bases are
covered because he could see his constituents complaining about this.
Mr. Hare questioned whether it would be those that do not pay their electric bill that
would be complaining about reconnecting.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 29
Ms. Maucher asked if reconnection could be deferred to the next day if customers pay
after 1:00 p.m. unless there was an emergency circumstance, feeling that it was odd
to send people out after-hours.
Mr. Hudson stated that it was getting cold and staff would prefer to get people
reconnected as soon as possible, noting that some have electric heat.
Mrs. Townshend stated that usually if utilities were cut, this would mean water was
being cut as well, which would mean these customers would not have plumbing.
Ms. Maucher asked if the additional $50 was just for electric or for any utilities.
Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated her belief that the fee was for full reconnection.
Mr. Anderson stated that he was all for adjusting the fees because they made sense,
noting that the costs are different for those who come in or go online before
11:30 a.m. and those who do not.
Mr. Anderson advised members that the people he has the pleasure to deal with are
not those making $100,000 per year, but are paycheck-to-paycheck people, and if
they get the flu and have to miss a week of work, it is a crisis. He expressed the
desire to make sure that there are proper extensions for extraordinary circumstances,
such as for a person that has been laid up for two (2) weeks with the flu or has been
in the hospital and has not been able to pay their bill. He stated that he had dealt with
these situations and brought people to City Hall who were unable to pay their bills
because they had been in the hospital.
Mr. Hare questioned if these individuals in the hospital that were unable to pay their
bills did not have someone to pay their bills for them. Responding, Mr. Anderson
said they did not, noting that not everyone has someone who can do this and a lot of
people live alone.
Mr. Hudson stated that the average person has 21 days to pay their bill. If they are
unable to pay, the amount carries over to the next month. The customer then has a
current bill and an unpaid back bill. Mr. Hudson indicated that the customer often
pays the back bill, makes a payment arrangement for the bill going forward, and then
has another 21 days to pay the current bill that they should have paid. They may
continue to not pay the current bill but pay the arrears. If this is a first time situation
or not a continued situation, they are given 45 days to pay the bill. [City Clerk’s
Office Note: Subsequent to the meeting, the City Clerk’s Office was informed that a
three (3) day extension is provided to those who are unable to pay their bills at the
end of the 45 days.] Mr. Hudson felt that this was way too long if the City was to be
run like a business. He felt that ideally when a bill has a current and previous
balance, there should be a note saying that the customer must pay their full bill,
noting that back bills were causing a problem for Customer Services and resulting
in a lot of receivables. Mr. Hudson felt that the City should put its foot down.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 30
Mr. Anderson stated that instead of using extensions for hardship situations, the City
basically went to almost an open-ended system where people could give themselves
extensions. He believed that the City had given up its discretion and this could be
regained to be used for the people who have a hard time.
Mr. Hudson stated that there are people who know how to play the game and know
that if they only pay their back bill they have 21 more days to pay on the front end
and can keep carrying this over and over again.
Mr. Sudler stated that it would be great if this could be handled on a case-by-case
basis to address outstanding circumstances, but he felt that the new policy should be
that the City wants all monies owed when there is a current and a back bill.
The Committee recommended adoption of the referenced fee changes, to be
implemented on January 1, 2016, as recommended by staff.
During the Regular Council meeting, Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, reviewed the estimated
annual revenue projected for the proposed increases for existing fees. He stated that the total
estimated annual revenue was approximately $224,305, noting that this total did not include the
zoning verification letter revenue, since it was included with the proposed new revenue sources
adopted by Council during consideration of the previous agenda item.
Mr. Sudler moved for acceptance of the Committee’s recommendation to adopt the referenced
fee changes (Exhibit #3), to be implemented on January 1, 2016, as recommended by staff. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Lewis absent).
[City Clerk’s Office Note: Subsequent to the meeting, Exhibit #3 was revised to include staff
corrections to Exhibit A - Planning Inspections Fees.]
Status of Performance Audit of Civilian Side of City Government
Due to time constraints, the Committee deferred consideration of this item until the
next meeting.
Proposed Change to Committee Meeting Format
Mr. Hutchison stated that he wished to propose a change to the way in which
committee meetings were being held. He noted that committee meetings are held on
the same day as City Council meetings, with meeting times beginning at 3:30 p.m.
and extending until approximately 7:00 p.m. Mr. Hutchison reminded members that
three (3) members of Council serve on each committee, with one (1) serving as chair,
along with two (2) civilian members. He noted that there are four (4) standing
committees: Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee; Utility
Committee; Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee; and Parks, Recreation,
and Community Enhancement Committee.
Mr. Hutchison advised members that he and Mrs. Traci McDowell, City Clerk,
attended a Kent County Levy Court committee meeting to observe their process and
they are run very differently. He explained that the Kent County Levy Court
committee meetings are held on a different night than the Levy Court meeting, the
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 31
president presides over the committee meeting, each committee has a chairperson,
and every elected member of Levy Court is automatically a member of each
committee; therefore, there is a committee of the whole. Mr. Hutchison felt that
committee meetings were some of the most important things done in the City, outside
of Council meetings. He noted that the City’s elected officials have full-time jobs,
which makes it difficult to attend these meetings.
Mr. Hutchison stated that the City was different from Kent County in that it has
civilian committee members, which he thought was fine. He indicated that he was
only talking about changing to a format that would allow Council to operate as a
committee of the whole, where every Council member is a member of each of
committee, there would be one (1) chair of each committee, and the Council
President would preside. Mr. Hutchison stated that all nine (9) members of Council
would be present at the committee meeting, noting that this had not occurred in his
experience. Mr. Hutchison strongly encouraged considering this change, which he
felt would be more efficient and effective and would allow greater opportunity for
interaction and networking among elected officials and civilians.
Mr. Sudler inquired if Mr. Hutchison had a blueprint of what he was suggesting for
members to review. Responding, Mr. Hutchison stated that his purpose was to
discuss this suggestion and see what the thoughts were. He promised, if there were
a consensus, that he would have a blueprint at the next Committee meeting.
Mr. Sudler indicated that he liked what he heard.
At the request of Mr. Hare, Mr. Hutchison stated that he would bring a blueprint with
times for the next meeting, when there would be more time for discussion.
Mr. Hare indicated that this matter would be placed on the next agenda.
Mr. Hare moved for acceptance of the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee
Report, seconded by Mr. Sudler and unanimously carried.
MONTHLY REPORTS - SEPTEMBER 2015
By motion of Mr. Neil, seconded by Mr. Cole, the following monthly reports were accepted by
consent agenda:
City Assessor’s Report
City Manager’s Report
City Planner’s Report
Controller/Treasurer’s Budget Report
Economic Development Office Report
Police Chief’s Report
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 32
QUARTERLY REVIEW OF CAPITAL INVESTMENT PLAN (CIP) (JULY, AUGUST, AND
SEPTEMBER)
Members were provided the Quarterly Report for the Capital Investment Plan (CIP) as of
September 30, 2015.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for acceptance of the Quarterly Report for the Capital
Investment Plan (CIP) as of September 30, 2015, seconded by Mr. Cole carried by a
unanimous roll call vote (Lewis absent).
APPOINTMENTS - COMPENSATION COMMISSION - TWO (2) YEAR TERMS TO
EXPIRE MAY 2017 (DEFERRED DURING THE MEETING OF MAY 26, 2015)
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the following appointments to the
Compensation Commission, seconded by Mr. Cole and carried by a unanimous roll call vote
(Lewis absent).
James Brockton (Councilman Neil)
Clarence (Bud) Wagner II (Councilman Lewis)
Kim Hawkins, Human Resources Director (Ex-Officio)
Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer (Ex-Officio)
REVIEW OF CHAPTER 66 - MANUFACTURED HOMES AND TRAILERS AND
APPENDIX B - ZONING, ARTICLE 3 - DISTRICT REGULATIONS, SECTION 1 -
ONE-FAMILY RESIDENCE ZONES AND PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2015-20
AMENDING APPENDIX B - ZONING, ARTICLE 12 - DEFINITIONS
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, informed members
that, following the issuance of a building permit for the construction of a manufactured home on a
property within the R-8 (One Family Residence) Zone, several residents and members of City
Council expressed concerns about the appropriateness of this housing type within the One Family
Residence Zones. She stated that staff subsequently reviewed literature available about
manufactured housing and developed recommendations for amending the code to prohibit
manufactured housing in One Family Residence Zones and to update code requirements in the Dover
Code of Ordinances, Chapter 66 - Manufactured Homes and Trailers, and Appendix B - Zoning.
Mrs. Townshend reviewed a presentation regarding terminology related to Manufactured Homes
(Exhibit #4).
Staff recommended introduction of an ordinance to amend the definition of “dwelling, one-family”
and to add a definition for “manufactured home,” with referral to the Planning Commission on
December 21, 2015 and public hearing and action by City Council on January 11, 2016. [City
Clerk’s Office Note: Subsequent to the meeting, the Clerk’s Office was advised that the Planning
Commission’s December meeting would be rescheduled for December 16, 2015.]
Staff also recommended, within the next 6 -12 months, the following: 1) full review of Dover Code
of Ordinances, Chapter 66 to determine what components of the chapter are relevant and should be
retained, and what components should be eliminated. Any provisions that appear to regulate
placement should be eliminated, as these requirements need to be in the Zoning Ordinance; 2) full
review of MHP (Mobile Home Park) Zone to ensure that the zone is current with best practices; and
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 33
3) full review of the Residential Zones and associated definitions. There are other areas that need to
be tightened up to provide clarity on a number of matters that could affect the character of
neighborhoods throughout the City.
Mr. Neil noted his belief that the City only had three (3) manufactured home communities; however,
he stated that problems existed within these communities and it was his hope that this chapter could
include licensing for a rental property. He thought that licensing would provide for regular
inspections of the communities to ensure they are maintained in accordance with City, State, and
Federal codes.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mrs. Townshend stated that a permanent foundation is something that is
in footers. She explained that the second part of the definition change is important because it makes
it clear that a manufactured home and a mobile home would not be included in the definition and that
all one-family dwellings would be constructed in accordance with Chapter 22 - Buildings and
Building Regulations of the Dover Code.
Mr. Hare asked whether the manufactured mobile home which was recently permitted for
construction on a property within the R-8 (One Family Residence) Zone would be on a permanent,
unmovable foundation and if all wheels, axles, and other minor incidental operations would be
removed, in accordance with the Dover Code. Responding, Mrs. Townshend explained that the
permanent foundation consists of the piers that are set in footings. She stated that one (1) of the
City’s building inspectors had been certified by the State to inspect the construction of manufactured
housing, and it was all being done in accordance with the regulations. Mrs. Townshend advised that
there would be a block foundation wall that would also be set on footings, and it was her belief that
the axle would be removed but the metal chassis would remain because it was the structural support
component. She stated that the chassis would not be viewable because it would be behind the wall.
Mrs. Townshend advised that the home would be sitting on a permanent foundation and would look
like a ranch house.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mrs. Townshend stated that a certificate of occupancy would not be issued
until all code requirements are met.
Mr. Neil moved to accept staff’s recommendation for the introduction of an ordinance to
amend the definition of “dwelling, one-family” and to add a definition for “manufactured
home,” with referral to the Planning Commission on December 21, 2015 and public hearing
and action by City Council on January 11, 2016, while also looking at the issue of licensing of
lease land communities. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hare and unanimously carried.
(The First Reading of the ordinance will take place during the latter part of the meeting.)
[City Clerk’s Office Note: Subsequent to the meeting, the Clerk’s Office was advised that the
Planning Commission’s December meeting would be rescheduled for December 16, 2015.]
Mr. Neil moved to accept staff’s recommendation that within the next 6-12 months, the
following will occur: 1) full review of Dover Code of Ordinances, Chapter 66 to determine
what components of the chapter are relevant and should be retained, and what components
should be eliminated. Any provisions that appear to regulate placement should be eliminated,
as these requirements need to be in the Zoning Ordinance; 2) full review of MHP (Mobile
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 34
Home Park) Zone to ensure that the zone is current with best practices; and 3) full review of
the Residential Zones and associated definitions. There are other areas that need to be
tightened up to provide clarity on a number of matters that could affect the character of
neighborhoods throughout the City. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hare and unanimously
carried.
FIRST READING - PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2015-20 AMENDING APPENDIX B -
ZONING, ARTICLE 12 - DEFINITIONS
Council President Slavin reminded the public that copies of the proposed ordinances are available
at the entrance of the Council Chambers or can be obtained from the City Clerk's Office. Since the
ordinance amends the Zoning Code, a public hearing is required. Staff recommended referral of the
amendments to the Planning Commission on December 21, 2015 and that a public hearing take place
during the Council Meeting of January 11, 2016, at 7:30 p.m., at which time final action by Council
will take place. [City Clerk’s Office Note: Subsequent to the meeting, the Clerk’s Office was advised
that the Planning Commission’s December meeting would be rescheduled for December 16, 2015.]
Mr. Hare moved to refer the amendments and set a public hearing before City Council for
January 11, 2016 at 7:30 p.m., as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Mr.
Neil and unanimously carried.
In accordance with Section 1-9 of the Dover Code, Council acknowledged the First Reading of the
Zoning Ordinance Amendments as read by the City Clerk, by title only, as follows:
< PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2015-20 AMENDING APPENDIX B - ZONING, ARTICLE 12 -
DEFINITIONS
FINAL READING - PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2015-19
The First Reading of the following proposed ordinance was accomplished during the Council
meeting of October 26, 2015.
Proposed Ordinance #2015-19 Amending Appendix C - Downtown Redevelopment, Article II -
Definitions, Section 4 - Target Area
Mr. Hutchison moved that the Final Reading of the proposed ordinance be acknowledged by
title only, seconded by Mr. Hare and unanimously carried.
By motion of Mr. Hare, seconded by Mr. Hosfelt, and carried by a unanimous roll call vote
(Anderson and Lewis absent), Ordinance #2015-03 was adopted, as follows:
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN
COUNCIL MET:
That Appendix C - Downtown Redevelopment, Article II - Definitions, Section 4 - Target Area of
the Dover Code be amended to read as follows:
High Priority Target Area shall mean that part of the city more particularly described as bounded
by the street center lines as follows:
Página 35
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 35
From the intersection of the centerlines of North Governors Avenue and Mary Street south
to the intersection of the centerlines of North Governors Avenue and Fulton Street, east to
the intersections of the center lines of Fulton Street and North State Street, south to the
intersection of the center lines of South State Street and Loockerman Street, east 202 feet and
then south 172 feet and then west 36 feet and south 73 feet, and west along the right-of-way
of North Street for 136 feet, and then south 45 feet along the center line of State Street and
then east 73 feet along the south right-of-way of North Street and then south 71 feet, and then
west 11 feet and south six feet and west 20 feet and south 135 feet and west 8 feet and then
south 22 feet, then west following the centerline of The Green to the south intersection of the
center lines of South State Street and The Green, south to West Water Street and south 218
feet and west 205 feet and southwest 41 feet and west 246 feet and north 102 feet and west
103 feet and northwest 3 feet and west 40 feet and southwest 9 feet and west 44 feet and
north to the intersection of South Governors Avenue and the centerline of West Water Street
and west to the intersection of the center lines of West Water Street and South Queen Street,
south along the center line of South Queen Street 541.11 feet and then west to the center line
of South West Street, and north to the intersection of the center lines of West North Street
and South West Street, and west to the intersection of the center lines of West North Street
and Clarence Street and north to the intersection of the center lines of Clarence Street and
Slaughter Street, and west along the center line of Slaughter Street to Cherry Street and north
along the center line of Cherry Street to the intersection with the center line of Lincoln Street,
and east along the center line of Lincoln Street to the intersection of the center lines of Forest
Street and South West Street, and north along the center line of South West Street to the
intersection of the center lines of West Street and West Division Street, and west to the east
property line of the Norfolk Southern railroad track, and north along this property line to the
intersection with the center line of Mary Street, and west to the intersection of the center
lines of Mary Street and North Governors Avenue.
ADOPTED: NOVEMBER 9, 2015
COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS - HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
Council President Slavin noted that, as Council had done in the past, due to the holiday season,
it was recommended that the Safety Advisory and Transportation; Utility; and Legislative,
Finance, and Administration Committee Meetings and City Council Meeting scheduled for
December 28, 2015 be cancelled. He assured members that if the need arose, Special Meetings
would be called.
Mr. Neil moved to cancel the Council and Committee Meetings as presented by Council
President Slavin, seconded by Mr. Cole and unanimously carried (Anderson and Lewis
absent).
COUNCIL MEMBERS' ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Hare announced that there would be a Second District meeting held on
Thursday, November 19, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 113 Lotus Street, noting
that a representative from the Police Department would be in attendance.
Página 36
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 9, 2015 PAGE 36
Mr. Sudler thanked Tom Armstrong, the owner of Tom’s Bullpen for allowing the Fourth District
Councilmen to conduct a town hall meeting at his restaurant on November 19, 2015 from 6:30 p.m.
to 8:00 p.m., to develop strategies for the Hamlet community to curb the violence in the Hamlet
Shopping Center. Mr. Sudler stated that a City of Dover code enforcement officer, as well as a
community police officer, would be in attendance to listen to the concerns of the community. He
noted that the meeting was for all residents of the City of Dover and light refreshments would be
served.
Mr. Hosfelt reminded members that Wednesday, November 11, 2015 is Veterans Day and asked all
to take the time to thank a veteran for all of the sacrifices they have made for us and our country.
Mr. Neil moved to adjourn into the Special Council meeting, seconded by Mr. Anderson and
unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:51 p.m.
TRACI A. McDOWELL
CITY CLERK
All ordinances, resolutions, motions, and orders adopted by City Council during their Regular
Meeting of November 9, 2015, are hereby approved.
ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
MAYOR
/TM
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\Council-Minutes\2015\11-09-2015.wpd
Exhibits
Exhibit #1 - Presentation - Violation of Dangerous Building Ordinance - 1032-1058 South Dupont Highway
Exhibit #2 - Proposed New Revenue Sources - Planning and Inspections Department and Customer Services
Department
Exhibit #3 - Proposed Fee Increases - Planning and Inspections Department and Customer Services Department, as
Revised by Staff Subsequent to the Meeting
Exhibit #4 - Presentation - Manufactured Homes
Página 37
EXHIBIT #1
Regular Council Meeting of 11/09/2015
Violation of Dangerous
Building Ordinance
1032 – 1058 S DuPont Hwy
EXHIBIT #1
Planning & Inspections Department
Dover, Delaware
Regular Council Meeting of 11/09/2015
November 9, 2015
Página 38
1032 – 1058 S DuPont Hwy
Case History
The structure was condemned by City Staff on
September 3, 2014, due to possible asbestos
contamination with businesses located on the first
floor of the structure.
Renovations and asbestos abatement had begun
on the second floor without any permits.
The abatement area was not properly contained,
causing asbestos fibers to enter the business
tenant spaces on the first floor.
Walls were removed on the second floor without
building plan review or permits
Utilities were terminated on March 12, 2015
Registered as a vacant building on March 30, 2015
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 56
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Página 63
Recommended Council Action
Declare this building on this property dangerous.
Order the property demolished by December 9, 2015 by the
owner or equity owner at their own risk.
Order the Building Inspector to cause the demolition of the
structure 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 64
EXHIBIT #2
Regular Council Meeting of 11/09/2015
ACTION FORM
PROCEEDING: Legislative, Finance, & Administration Committee
DEPARTMENT OF ORIGIN: City Manager’s Office DATE SUBMITTED: 10/20/2015
PREPARED BY: Scott D. Koenig, P.E., City Manager; Ann Marie Townshend, AICP, City Planner
SUBJECT: Proposed New Revenue Sources
RELATED PROJECT: N/A
REVIEWED BY: City Manager, Controller/Treasurer
EXHIBITS: N/A
EXPENDITURE REQUIRED: N/A AMOUNT BUDGETED: N/A
FUNDING SOURCE (Dept./Page in CIP & Budget): N/A
TIMETABLE: Implement new fees on January 1, 2016.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Recommend to City Council the adoption of the referenced fees.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
During the FY-2016 budget hearings, City Council directed staff to review various city operations and submit requests for
potential revenue sources. Staff conducted internal requests for suggestions regarding revenue sources and/or cost
recovery sources. Below is a listing of the items staff is recommending action on and the annual revenue associated with
the item:
Proposed New Revenues
Proposed Projected
Fee Type Explanation
Amount Revenue
Temporary Certificate of Occupancy $75.00 $200.00
(TCO) - Residential
Currently regular CO fee is charged. Other
locations charge a separate fee for TCO due
to the work involved in tracking them and
following up. Under this proposal, a TCO
would be valid for a maximum of 45 days
and the fee would be paid for each renewal.
Temporary Certificates of Occupancy - $100.00 $2,000.00
Non-Residential
Zoning Verification/Administrative $50.00 $5,000.00
Interpretations Zoning verification letters and administrative
interpretations involve staff time to
complete, and currently there is no fee.
Other jurisdictions charge a fee. The
proposed fee is to reflect capturing the cost
of the service provided.
Utility Bill Copies - Customer Service A random sample day yielded 118 copies
printed in a day. This equates to $26,550.00
annualized. Staff believes the actual
revenue will substantially decline once a
$1.00 $10,000.00 charge is adopted.
Total Projected Revenue $17,200.00
Página 65
EXHIBIT #3
Regular Council Meeting of 11/09/2015
ACTION FORM
PROCEEDING: Legislative, Finance, & Administration Committee
DEPARTMENT OF ORIGIN: City Manager’s Office DATE SUBMITTED: 10/20/2015
PREPARED BY: Scott D. Koenig, P.E., City Manager; Ann Marie Townshend, AICP, City Planner
SUBJECT: Review & Maintenance of Fees – Planning & Customer Service Departments
RELATED PROJECT: N/A
REVIEWED BY: City Manager, Controller/Treasurer
EXHIBITS: Exhibit A – Planning & Inspections Fees
EXPENDITURE REQUIRED: N/A AMOUNT BUDGETED: N/A
FUNDING SOURCE (Dept./Page in CIP & Budget): N/A
TIMETABLE: Implement revised fees on January 1, 2016.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Recommend to City Council the adoption of the referenced fee changes.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
During the FY-2016 budget hearings, City Council directed staff to review various city fees and submit recommendations
for consideration by City Council. Exhibit A is a listing the various Planning & Inspections Department fees being
recommended for increases. In addition, there are several fees in Customer Services being recommended for increases.
These include the Returned Check Fee being increased from $25.00 to $40.00 and the Service Fee for After Hours Utility
Reconnection from $50.00 to $100.00 between 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The anticipated additional annual revenue is
summarized below.
Estimated Annual Revenue from Proposed Increases
Planning Application Fees $ 7,000
Zoning Verification Letter $ 5,000
Public Occupancy Increase $ 10,000
Certificates of Occupancy $ 4,000
Mechanical $ 23,400
Plumbing $ 13,000
Rental Permits $ 80,000
Itinerant Merchant License $ 7,300
Vacant Buildings $ 40,000
Sign Permits $ 9,000
Returned Check Fees $ 10,605
Service Fee for After Hours Utility Reconnection $ 20,000
Total $ 229,305
Página 66
Exhibit A: Planning Inspections Fees
REVISED SUBSEQUENT TO THE COUNCIL MEETING OF 11/09/2015
Sub Type Last Updated Current Fee Proposed Fee
Type
Sign Permits (22-65) 2004 $.50 per SF/minimum fee $15 $.75 per SF/minimum fee $50
Temporary Sign Permits
2004 $ 15 $ 50
(Appendix B, Article 5)
Business License Itinerant Merchant 2010 $ 41.50 $ 100
$30.00 first 10,000 BTUs and $40.00 first 10,000 BTUs and
Heating permit ..... 2004 $5.00 each additional 10,000 $7.00 each additional 10,000
Mechanical BTUs or multiple thereof BTUs or multiple thereof
$30.00 per ton for the first five $40.00 per ton for the first five
Air conditioning permit ..... 2004 tons and $5.00 per ton over five tons and $7.00 per ton over
Mechanical tons or multiple thereof five tons or multiple thereof
$15.00 first 10,000 BTUsand
$5.00 each additional 10,000 $40.00 first 10,000 BTUs and
BTUs or multiple thereof and $7.00 each additional 10,000
$2.50 for each additional 10,000 BTUs or multiple thereof or
Heat pump permit ..... 2004
BTUs or multiple thereof and an $40.00 per ton for the first five
additional $15.00 for the first five tons and $7.00 per ton over
tons and $2.50 per ton for over five tons or multiple thereof
Mechanical five tons or multiple thereof
$25.00 first five fixtures and $35.00 first five fixtures and
Fixtures 2004
Plumbing $2.00 for each additional fixture $3.00 for each additional fixture
Garbage Disposal & Hot Water
2004 Minimum of $25 Minimum of $35
Plumbing Heaters
$20.00 for first 150 feet and $30.00 for first 150 feet and
Gas, water and sewer inspection
2004 $0.50 for each additional ten $0.75 for each additional ten
Plumbing underground feet or multiple thereof feet or multiple thereof
Single-family detached dwelling,
Rental Permits 2000 $ 90 $ 100
each dwelling .....
Single-family attached dwelling,
Rental Permits 2000 $ 70 $ 80
each dwelling .....
For the first three dwelling units
Rental Permits 2000 $ 90 $ 100
.....
For each additional dwelling unit
Rental Permits 2000 $ 30 $ 35
in excess of three .....
1 of 3
Página 67
Exhibit A: Planning Inspections Fees
Condominium units and
accessory apartments located
2000 $ 35
within structures principally used
for owner occupancy, each .....
Rental Permits $ 30
Vacant Building < 1 year 2006 $ 250 $ 375
Vacant Building 1-2 years 2006 $ 500 $ 750
Vacant Building 2-5 years 2006 $ 1,000
Vacant Building 2-3 years $ 1,000 $ 1,500
Vacant Building 4-5 years $ 1,000 $ 3,000
Vacant Building 5+ years 2006 $ 2,000 $ 5,000
Public Occupancy Permits Churches ..... 1993 $ 25 $ 50
Public Occupancy Permits Civic auditoriums ..... 1993 $ 25 $ 50
Public Occupancy Permits Clubhouses ..... 1993 $ 50 $ 100
$50.00 first 200 seats and
$25.00 first 200 seats and $2.50
Commercial auditoriums ..... $5.00 for each additional 50
Public Occupancy Permits 1993 for each additional 50 seats seats
Public Occupancy Permits Day care facilities ..... 1993 $ 25 $ 50
Hospitals, nursing homes or rest $5.00 first ten rooms and $1.25 $15.00 first ten rooms and
homes ..... for each additional room $2.00 for each additional room
Public Occupancy Permits 1993
Mercantile (10,000 square feet of
Public Occupancy Permits area or greater) ..... 1993 $ 25
$ 50
Outdoor public events, including
but not limited to firework
displays, carnivals, and outdoor
$ 25 $ 250
music concerts ..... (would be
amended to just include fire
Public Occupancy Permits works displays) 1993
Public Occupancy Permits Public office buildings ..... 1993 $ 25 $ 50
Public Occupancy Permits School ..... 1993 $ 25 $ 50
$25.00 for the first 200 seats $50.00 for the first 200 seats
Theaters ..... and $2.00 for each 50 and $5.00 for each 50
Public Occupancy Permits 1993 additional seats additional seats
Restaurants (10,000 square feet
N/A $ 50
Public Occupancy Permits of area or greater)….. N/A
Restaurants of any size that
Public Occupancy Permits serve alcoholic beverages N/A N/A $ 75
Subdivision Preapplication; filing fee ..... 2004 $ 200 200
2 of 3
Página 68
Exhibit A: Planning Inspections Fees
Preliminary layout; filing fee ..... 325
Subdivision 2004 $ 325
$150.00, plus $65.00 per acre $200.00, plus $85.00 per acre
for the first ten acres, $40.00 per for the first ten acres, $60.00
Plat; review fee ..... acre for the next ten acres and per acre for the next ten acres
$25.00 per acre for each acre and $45.00 per acre for each
Subdivision 2004 thereafter acre thereafter
Plats for minor lot line
Minor Lot Line Adjustment adjustments shall require a
Subdivision 2004 review fee of $100.00 $ 150
Plats for minor subdivisions shall
Minor Subdivision
require a review fee of $100.00
Subdivision 2004 $150 plus $15 per lot
Certificates of occupancy All properties zoned single-family 2004 $ 40 $ 60
residential .....
Certificates of occupancy All other property in other zoning 2004 $40.00 for the first 20,000 square $75.00 for the first 20,000
classifications, other than single- feet of building area plus the sum square feet of building area
family residential ..... of $10.00 for each additional plus the sum of $15.00 for
10,000 square feet of building each additional 10,000 square
area in excess of the first 20,000 feet of building area in excess
square feet or multiple thereof of the first 20,000 square feet
or multiple thereof
Board of Adjustment Variance for Residential 2004 $ 200 $ 300
Board of Adjustment Variance for Non-Residential 2004 $ 300 $ 600
Board of Adjustment Appeal 2004 $ 200 $ 300
Conditional Use 2004 $325 plus $15 per acre $425 plus $25 per acre
Site Plan Administrative Site Plans 2004 $ 125 $ 300
Site Plan Site Plan 2004 $ 325 $425 plus $25 per acre
Historic District Comm. 2004 $ 250 $ 250
Rezoning 2004 $325 plus per acre fee $425 plus per acre fee
Rezoning R-7, R-8, R-10, R-15, and R-20 2004 $10 per acre $25 per acre
RG-0, RG-1, RG-2, RG-3, RG-4,
Rezoning RG-5, RM-1, and RM-2 , and MHP 2004 $30 per acre $50 per acre
C-1, C-1A, C-2, C-2A, C-3, C-4,
Rezoning CPO, RC and IO 2004 $50 per acre $70 per acre
Rezoning SC-1, SC-2 and SC-3 2004 $60 per acre $75 per acre
Rezoning M, and IPM, and IPM2 2004 $60 per acre $75 per acre
3 of 3
Página 69
EXHIBIT #4
Regular Council Meeting of 11/09/2015
Manufactured Homes
EXHIBIT #4
Planning Office
Dover, Delaware
Regular Council Meeting of 11/09/2015
November 9, 2015
Página 70
Dover Code – Chapter 66 & Zoning
Ordinance (Appendix B)
Inconsistencies between provisions
Outdated definitions
Zoning definition for “Dwelling, One Family”
does not preclude manufactured homes
Página 71
Terminology
Manufactured Home: A factory‐built housing unit
designed and constructed to meet the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development
(HUD) Code. A manufactured home is built on a
chassis that supports the structural integrity of the
home and to allow transport to the site. Factory‐built
units built to meet the HUD Code and constructed
after the code took effect on June 15, 1976 are
classified as “manufactured homes”.
Página 72
Terminology
Mobile Home: A factory‐built unit constructed on a
chassis and completed before June 15, 1976. Prior
to the HUD code, mobile homes were not subject to
uniform construction or safety standards.
Trailer: Trailers are technically recreational vehicles
that do not conform to either local building codes or
the HUD code. While still used by many to refer to
mobile or manufactured homes, these are not
technically trailers.
Página 73
Terminology
Modular Home: While often built in the same
factories, modular homes are built to the same state
or local building codes as site‐built homes and are
always placed on permanent foundations. Homes
are assembled in pieces at a factory and towed to
the building site where they are assembled to
construct the unit. This may be as simple as two
rectangular pieces, similar to a multi‐section
manufactured home, or very complex.
Página 74
Key Distinctions
Manufactured Homes
– Post June 15, 1976
– Built to HUD standards – not local building codes
Mobile Homes
– Pre June 15, 1976
– Not built to HUD standards or local building
codes
Modular Homes
– Stick built off site
– Required to comply with local building codes
Página 75
Recommended Code Changes
Immediate amendment to definition of
“dwelling, one family” and addition of
definition for “manufactured home”
Full review (6-12 months) of Chapter 66,
MHP Zone, Residential Zones and
associated definitions
Página 76
Dwelling, one family
Dwelling, one-family: A permanent dwelling unit
placed on a permanent foundation and designed
and intended for use by only one family. One-family
dwellings shall not include manufactured homes or
mobile homes but shall include modular homes
constructed to the standards of the Dover Code of
Ordinances, Chapter 22 – Buildings and Building
Regulations.
Página 77
Manufactured Home
Manufactured Home: A factory-built housing unit
designed and constructed to meet the Manufactured
Home Construction and Safety Standards of the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
Code. A manufactured home is built on a chassis that
supports the structural integrity of the home and to
allow transport to the site. Factory-built units built to
meet the HUD Code and constructed after the code
took effect on June 15, 1976 are classified as
"manufactured homes."