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REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular City Council Meeting was held by video conference on April 26, 2021 at 7:30 p.m. with
Council President Hare presiding. Council members present via video or telephone were
Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil, Mr. Slavin, Mr. Rocha, Mr. Taylor, and Mr. Lindell.
Staff members present via video or telephone were Police Chief Johnson, Ms. Peddicord,
Mr. Robertson, Mr. Hugg, Mr. Rodriguez, and Mrs. McDowell. Mayor Christiansen was also
present.
INVOCATION
The invocation was given by Mayor Christiansen.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Councilman Neil.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Mr. Taylor moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried.
ADOPTION OF CONSENT AGENDA
All Consent Agenda items are considered routine and non-controversial and will be acted upon by
a single roll call vote of the Council. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a
member of Council so requests, in which event the matter shall be removed from the Consent
Agenda and considered a separate item.
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the consent agenda, seconded by Mr. Taylor and carried by
a unanimous roll call vote.
PRESENTATION - POLICE DEPARTMENT’S ANNUAL REPORT
Chief Thomas Johnson reviewed the 2020 Police Department Annual Report.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Chief Johnson advised that the age range of individuals participating in
illegal activities are in early stages of fourth and fifth grade. He noted that the gang culture has been
pushing down the elementary school level right before they head off to middle school. Chief Johnson
stated that in addition to the Group Violence Intervention System (GVI), the strategy is to fight crime
and invest in kids. He advised that they have a nationally based program that has custom application,
and it is in the queue as soon as they are able to meet effectively in large groups. He noted that the
program would assess the community in totality and would be Dover specific information that would
feed the programs that would follow. Chief Johnson advised that it also requires a lot of stakeholder
input to make sure that the solutions are connected to the actual problems.
Chief Johnson advised that they are looking at expanding the Police Athletic League (P.A.L.) and
they are looking at an Explorer Post for kids a little bit above the elementary school level. He noted
that they reconnected with Dr. Courtney Voshell, Principal of Capital School District, and planning
is underway for some of the programs that have been historically successful and opening up room
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for increased communication. Chief Johnson stated that they discovered that the Police Chief’s
Advisory Committee needed a subcommittee which will be kids at the local high school and the
main committee’s youth liaison, along with their school resource officers. They are going to start
facilitating discussions at the high school. He noted that hopefully they will be able to extend that
to the middle school.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Chief Johnson stated that there is significant evidence that identifies
traumatic events that are experienced by young people and the residual effect of trauma,
psychological as well as physical, in behavior patterns. He noted that he is not an expert in that area,
but they are tuned into that variable, they are learning about it while they are trying to do something
about it at the same time.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Chief Johnson advised that he could get Mr. Sudler a direct answer
regarding crime rates at the Silver Lake Park area, but he could report just about every crime
category below the homicide statistics that they posted in 2020. He noted that virtually every other
category and subcategory is down. Chief Johnson stated that he had to pay respects to the fact that
a lot of the data can be related to changes in standard behavior related to the pandemic. He advised
that because people are stuck inside, their overdoes numbers were up and that when it is behind
closed doors, it is very difficult to get in front until 911 is called.
Mr. Sudler requested the criminal statistics from a year before the implementation of cameras at
Silver Lake Park to now.
Responding to Mr. Taylor regarding the Governor’s Group Violence Intervention System (GVI),
Chief Johnson stated that funding is being worked on right now by members of the Governor’s staff.
He noted that a lot of GVI is managed at the state level with state level resources and they are a
collaborative partner. Chief Johnson advised that GVI is focused intervention on individuals, well
identified practitioners of violent crimes and they are directly engaged by a team. They are offered
comprehensive services to address the issue that is leading them into a lifestyle that either lends them
to commit violent crimes or find themselves in positions to become victims of violent crimes. He
stated that they want to help them and that they are being put on notice that they have to make a
change.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Lieutenant Jordan Miller stated that they track overdoes calls for
service and they could pull the numbers based off that. He advised that he would have to look at the
actual complaints to see where NARCAN was utilized, but that it would take a time to find it.
Chief Johnson noted that NARCAN is in citizens’ hands. He advised that getting it out to the public
is not a heavy lift, but tracking its effectiveness with so many people available to provide it because
they are not the only ones that have it.
Responding to Mr. Anderson regarding the Police Athletic League (P.A.L.), Chief Johnson stated
that they have a public meeting scheduled. One of the officers that are a part of the expanded
community policing unit allows him to assign a second P.A.L. officer.
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Mr. Neil moved for acceptance of the 2020 Police Department Annual Report. The motion was
seconded by Mr. Anderson and unanimously carried.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 12, 2021
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of April 12, 2021 were unanimously approved
by motion of Mr. Neil, seconded by Mr. Taylor and bore the written approval of
Mayor Christiansen.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT - MARCH 9, 2021
The Economic Development Committee Meeting was held by video conference on
March 9, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. with Mayor Robin R. Christiansen presiding. Committee
Members present via video or telephone were Councilman David Anderson,
Kim Adams, Dave Hugg-City Planner, Diane Laird, and Tracy Armstrong were
present. Councilman Roy Sudler, Clayton E. Hammond II, and Randy Robertson -
City Manager were not present.
WELCOME
At 4:01 pm Mayor Robin R. Christiansen called the Economic Development Meeting
to order.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Mayor Christiansen called for a motion to adopt the Agenda. Dave Hugg moved for
adoption of agenda, seconded by Councilman David Anderson, unanimously carried.
(Councilman Roy Sudler, Clayton E. Hammond II, and Randy Robertson City
Manager absent).
ADOPTION OF MINUTES
Mayor Christiansen called for a motion to adopt February 9, 2021 minutes. Diane
Laird moved for adoption of minutes, seconded by Councilman Anderson,
unanimously carried. (Councilman Roy Sudler, Clayton E. Hammond II, and
Randy Robertson absent).
DIANE LAIRD-PRESENTATION OF THE DOWNTOWN DOVER
PARTNERSHIP ANNUAL REPORT.
Diane Laird played a five-minute video summarizing Downtown Dover Partnerships
Annual Report. Please see Attachment 1 summary of video/annual report.
Diane Laird states this is a calendar year with a net gain of one business. Since 2021
three closures 33 West, Barber Shop, and Duck Creek printing. Two new business
to open in April Rebel Cove and Artisanal Market. Anticipating 3 new business all
in various stages opening by end of the year. First priority is supporting and retaining
business already in place. May first Friday relaunch this year. Working hard on
comprehensive parking plan for Downtown Dover. Currently exploring planning
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opportunities to have us look at Downtown Dover in a comprehensive way to create
plans that will be transformational for the physical aspect of downtown. With
transformation of physical structure will address many other problems that will be
lessened or dealt with and increased residential opportunities. Dover Interfaith
Mission for Housing to find a new location by the end of this year. Purchase fell
through and likely to extend deadline. working at West end property to develop
concepts for entrance. Working with DSU finalize acquisition with Wesley in June
of this year. Open Schwartz center for at least two performances this year. Thank you
to support philosophical support to City and Council.
CITY OF DOVER PLANNING UPDATE GIVEN BY DAVE HUGG
Dave Hugg says the Mayor had a tour of the new Post Office Building. Mayor said
the completion date will be end of June early July. Report continuing discussion of
people involved in Family Court Project meeting with them for land transactions and
resolve the alley. Focus on Downtown, the City Council approve change in land use
designation and zoning classification for 92 North West Street Standy Liggins
proposed to food related business at old Southern State site. Councilman Anderson
raised concerns about noise and use. Its encouraging that people are investing
residential and commercial in that area. City Council rejected proposal from Dover
Mall to changed designation of their property. A lot of concern expressed by
residents and Dover International Speedway on negative impacts on residential
impacts from Nascar and Firefly. Property at College Road and McKee Road land
use designation and zoning changed to build a Royal Farms.
New Lease for Governors Café and that person has expressed desire to add outdoor
dining patio to increase capability of restaurant. Greater Dover focus preliminary
plans for Delaware Solid Waste Authority Office Building are in review in the
Planning Office. The reconstruction and opening of Bob Discount Furniture are
imminent in the next month in the old Toys R Us building. Prospects that involve
aircraft and aviation components and parts manufacturing. The City of Dover has
made the first short list they are looking at Civilian Air Terminal and Kent Aero Park
and access to Air Base for its long runway. European Manufacturing for condiments
interested in our area. Would be their first venture on the east coast. Potential
ice-skating business in downtown and general location of the City.
Wrapping up Rockport 2.0 next month or so can report more detail what the target
industries are for Kent County and Dover. This level of analysis is drilling into things
more specific to Dover area. Received workforce and manpower estimates and
projections most categories ample workforce available in 30, 45, and 60-minute drive
time to accommodate new businesses in target industry groups. We are in need to
emphasize work force development in a few areas.
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Last night City Council Meeting wrapped up comprehensive plan amendment request
submitted in December. Working on Comprehensive rezoning effort to make sure
zoning and land use map match. First reading in April and ask Council to set aside
first special meeting Monday in June for purpose to update zoning map. Tonight, at
Council Committee of the Whole to introduce amendment to incentive program that
City has for large scale industrial manufacturing investment. Planning discovered the
IPM3 the Aviation aeronautics related industrial zone was not added to zoning
districts where the 10-year tax abatement could be applied. We have 3 serious
inquiries about businesses an awning manufacturing firm in the Kent Aero Park and
expansion at Sun Rock Building. It is critical that we modify incentive program that
way if we get a large investor, we have that tool.
Councilman Anderson asks, what areas in workforce development do we need to
train to make sure our people have the jobs we bring in? Dave Hugg does not have
the report with him and will have to get back to Councilman Anderson. Mayor states
that we have heard from a number of employers in addition to workforce training and
development we need to establish work ethic. Before the pandemic a person had been
advised by local companies there is workforce available, but they have no work ethic.
Whatever direction we go in workforce development we instill in folks it helps to
have attendance, proficiency in what you are doing, and a commitment to show up.
For example, gentleman who owned Hollywood Diner Rob White the reason he
closed was not because he wasn't doing business. It was because people would not
come in to cook, wait, and take care of the restaurant. If we could find someone to
teach how to do jobs that are coming but work ethic, we will be able to bring people
here to create jobs. Council Anderson agrees this is very important. Are the jobs
divided blue collar or white collar? Dave Hugg states target industry included
wholesale, distribution, logistics, and packaging that is an area there is some
deficiency in workforce development but there will be a lot of job growth skilled and
semiskilled jobs. Mayor states the Kent Aero Park once joint use agreement is in
place becoming a secondary hub for DHL, FedEx, and Amazon. Right now their hubs
are overworked as soon as we have the joint use agreement is in place we have a
captive audience. We have people to load and unload planes and handle stock. Our
deficiency is warehouses to do short term turn over of products to be loaded on these
planes. Audience for possible aircraft repair facility. A lady told me today her friends
husband got a job working in Ohio working in a brewery and he is Aircraft
Mechanic. If we had this kind of facility, we would have high paying jobs and
families stay here.
Councilman Anderson asks where we in the joint use agreement. Mayor states its
being held up in Washington. Dave Hugg states environmental assessment that has
been completed and being reviewed by the Airforce. Everyone feeling is it will get
signed in the next few months. Number of landings and take offs significantly
increased and the Airforce was concerned about the environment this has been
resolved.
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Diane Laird asks what next step for old Southern States property? Went form land
use designation change from industrial to mixed use because would not allow
commercial activity. Once Council approve change in land use entertained request
to rezone commercial designation allow for food and beverage operations. The next
step now the property owner needs to come to planning department with preliminary
site plan to work through some issues such as parking. From here out it will be a
design and build.
MAYORS ANNOUNCEMENT
Next meeting will have a guest speaker thanks to Councilman Anderson will give
insight on new directions we can go.
NEXT MEETING DATE
April 13, 2021
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Robin R. Christiansen called for a motion to adjourn. Councilman Anderson
moved for adjournment, seconded by Diane Laird, unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned 4:40 pm
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for acceptance of the Economic Development Committee
Report, seconded by Mr. Taylor and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT - APRIL 13, 2021
The Council Committee of the Whole met by video conference on April 13, 2021 at
6:02 p.m., with Council President Hare presiding. Members of Council present via
video or telephone were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Neil, Mr. Slavin, Mr. Rocha, Mr. Taylor,
and Mr. Lindell. Mr. Sudler was absent. Mayor Christiansen was also present.
Civilian members present for their Committee meetings were Mr. Caldwell and
Col. Dix, Retired, (Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement).
A moment of silence was held for Mr. Dazhmier Brooks, former Dover High School
athlete, who was killed on April 12, 2021.
PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY
ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee met with Chairman
Anderson presiding.
Adoption of Agenda
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Rocha and
unanimously carried.
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Review of Recommendations from Mayor's Blue Ribbon Task Force to End
Homelessness Report (Actionable Items)
Mr. David Hugg, Director of Planning and Community Development, and Mayor
Christensen provided an update regarding the recommendations from the Mayor's
Blue Ribbon Task Force to End Homelessness Report.
Staff recommended referring this item to Staff for further review.
Mayor Christiansen advised that one of the recommendations that came to fruition
was the formation of the Central Delaware Housing Collaborative, which brought
about the creation of a women's shelter at 801 West Division Street. He noted that
it is up and running and is a multifaceted process. Mayor Christiansen stated that it
was also the mission of the Blue Ribbon Task Force to end veteran's homelessness.
He noted that during the pandemic, Mrs. Tracey Harvey, Planner/Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) Administrator, was helpful to the homeless
community and provided vouchers and did human work through funds that were
given to the City by the previous administration through the Department of Housing
and Urban Development (HUD). Mayor Christiansen noted that they have not
conquered the issues, but the spirit and the nature of the Blue Ribbon Task force, is
still there.
Ms. Jeanine Kleimo, Chair of the Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing, provided the
following information regarding the Recommendations from the Mayor's Blue
Ribbon Task Force to End Homelessness:
• The Central Delaware Housing Collaborative, a non-profit group, was
created. It is a collaborative including Dover Interfaith, People's Place,
National Council on Agricultural Life &Labor Research Fund, Inc. (NCALL),
and the Chamber of Commerce which created the women's shelter at
801 West Division Street. That shelter is targeted to single women or women
without children present because the other shelters open to women in Dover
focus on women with children and there was a lack of assistance to the
growing number of single homeless women in the community.
• One recommendation was that there would be a larger permanent shelter for
the Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing and they have been pursing that.
• The third recommendation was that the task force include officials from the
City and County to work with leaders of the organizations concerned with
homelessness and try to implement the plan that was outlined in the Pathway
Report.
• There were also recommendations for more affordable housing in the City of
Dover, since the lack thereof is a critical reason why people become
homeless, they cannot afford a place to live.
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• There were some more minor recommendations such as having lockers and
storage facilities for those who are homeless, a daytime space where
homeless people might gather and obtain services outside of the Dover Public
Library.
• Services at the Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing are provided not only
to shelter residents, but also to those who are still on the street, case
management services in particular and health and mental health services are
available to people who are unsheltered.
Ms. Kleimo stated that she was willing to continue to work with anyone who would
be willing to be a part of that committee or next phase task force but they have no
unique resources either at the Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing or on the part of
the earlier task force to undertake the recommendations on their own.
Mr. Neil expressed his concerns regarding homelessness, affordable housing and
leased land. He proposed that if money is received from federal sources that it be
used for housing.
Mrs. Harvey stated that NCALL was interested in receiving some of the American
Rescue Plan (ARP) funding to build affordable rental housing in the City of Dover.
She also received notice from HUD that they were collaborating with Veterans
Affairs (VA). Mrs. Harvey stated that she believes that they will issue some ARP
funding as well, in the amount of $10 billion, to assist those that are experiencing
homelessness. She advised that another fund was recorded to build affordable homes
within the City but she was unsure of the amount. Mrs. Harvey advised that more
information would be forthcoming.
Ms. Rachel Stucker, Executive Director of Housing Alliance, Delaware, provided
information regarding the Housing Alliance. Ms. Stucker stated that homelessness
has gotten worse, not better. She stated that the good news was that they have
significant resources coming to the state that they can use to house people in
innovative and creative ways.
Mr. Anderson stated that one of his concerns was that they do not seem to get the
proper share of money to Kent County, either for people who fall below the
rent-to-earning threshold or the percentage of the homeless population. He stated that
they needed to look at how they make sure they get at least something resembling
their share in Kent County. Mr. Anderson asked if they had preliminary numbers on
how much of a problem there was in Kent County currently. Responding,
Ms. Stucker stated that this was not Dover specific, but anywhere between 20 and 25
percent of people and families experiencing homelessness are identified to be in Kent
County. She advised that in terms of resources, there were similar percentages in
Sussex County and then the majority was in New Castle. Some of the homeless
assistance funding that is received is on a block grant style; based on population
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poverty rates, and calculations made by HUD. Other funding is competitive, so there
are different ways to think about how to increase allocation to certain communities,
whether it is a lack of capacity to take on the types of projects that would be
competitive. Col. Dix asked if they had explored the avenue of helping people that
would like to leave the area to relocate rather than trying to house them. Responding,
Mr. Anderson stated that some people have been helped in that way, but it has not
been formalized. He noted that a lot of the homeless population is not from
Delaware.
Responding to Col. Dix, Mr. Anderson stated formalizing it is something that the
Staff could review. Mayor Christiansen advised that his office has personally done
that for quite a few people.
Mr. Hare moved to recommend referring this item to Staff for further review.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Taylor and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Discussion - American Rescue Plan (ARP) and a Framework for
Community Development (Actionable Item)
Mr. Randy Robertson, City Manager, advised that the amount of funding that the City
of Dover would receive had not yet been determined. He stated that the numbers they
had were just a baseline that had been expressed. Mr. Robertson noted that he met
with Senator Coons' District Chief and that the number that had been offered was in
the $18 to low $19 million range. He advised that as of yesterday, he had not heard
anything different. Mr. Robertson stated that the treasury department had not issued
definitive numbers or indicated how those funds would be earmarked. He stated that
they heard of issues regarding affordable housing, police body cameras, fire
department needs and some infrastructure money unallocated in the City.
Mr. Robertson advised that until they have guidance there is nothing but mere
speculation, not only to the amount for Dover, but on how it will be allocated.
Staff recommended referring this item to the City Manager's Office for further
discussion and development.
Mr. Taylor reviewed a list of ideas about what to do with the money and what it
would look like at the end after resources had been allocated and implemented. He
advised that over the course of two years some of the options that they would like to
see implemented made the list. Mr. Taylor provided the following ideas for
discussion: Basic framework of business and growth jobs, Opioid Crisis and the
homeless population, a Strategic Plan, a Marketing Strategy to promote Dover as
safe, clean, welcoming and inclusive, the Mayor's Crisis Awareness Funds,
parterning with NCALL and Restoring Central Dover for micro grants, increase cadet
pay, an air purification system at Schutte Park, sanitation stations throughout the
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City, City Council pay raises, and an app for the public to see what exactly Council
does.
Mayor Christiansen asked for Council to consider putting 5% of the money away in
a contingency fund for some type of disaster. Responding to Mr. Taylor, Mayor
Christiansen stated that they were receiving reimbursement for the tornado damage
from the state in bits and pieces at a time. Mayor Christiansen advised that there are
still citizens who were greatly impacted by not having enough insurance on their
property.
Mr. Taylor provided the additional ideas of a civil air terminal and a riverwalk. He
provided and reviewed photos of the riverwalk in Milford and land in Dover that
could be developed as a riverwalk.
Mr. Taylor stated that he would like for the Council members to go and walk the sites
and use their imaginations to come together and figure out the best way for them to
create a riverwalk. He noted that any feedback was welcomed.
Responding to Mr. Lindell, Mr. Anderson stated that they knew to a large degree of
what the restrictions were on the money. Mr. Anderson advised that according to the
law, there are different pots of money and the money they were talking about was
money with the least restrictions. He noted that all of the items that Mr. Taylor
mentioned deals with infrastructure. He stated that all of them fit within those
recommendations that they had and there are other monies with other pots with
different restrictions. Mr. Anderson stated that he could send the criteria that comes
from both the National League of Cities and the counties.
Mr. Lindell stated that those details needed to be shared before they start discussing
ideas to find out exactly what they can and cannot do. He stated he would highly
doubt a raise for themselves, which he did not think they deserved. Mr. Lindell
expressed his concerns that any of the money that is spent needs to be within the
parameters and what they are given needs to be put toward one time expenses so that
they are not attaching themselves to fund different programs in future budgets.
Mr. Anderson noted that the money needs to be spent by December 31, 2024.
Mr. Robertson advised that he, Mr. Matthew Harline, Assistant City Manager, and
the City Engineer went to some of the areas in the photos provided by Mr. Taylor.
The sites have been owned by the City and he advised that there is a strong potential
for extensive mitigation activities. He stated that all of that property down there is
one of the congressional asks. Mr. Harline noted that it was $8.5 million for
stormwater work and that does not count the voluntary cleanup program. He noted
that theyhave three out of six projects that are closed and signed off on. Mr. Harline
advised that the money may arrive at any time, but he was not certain that they had
received a dime yet from Hurricane Isaias.
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Mr. Slavin noted that the large concrete round areas was were they processed sewage
when the City was in that business. Then they connected to the County and that
became an abandoned site, but it has been remediated and is now at their disposal.
He advised that there have been some good thinking about this and that Mr. David
Hugg, Director of Inspections and Community Development, or
Mrs. Traci McDowell, City Clerk, could look into the study that Mr. Anderson
referred too. Mr. Slavin stated that Delaware Natural Resources and Environmental
Control (DNREC) have been excited about the possibilities and that they are
responsible for putting up the dock for the City.
Mr. Slavin stated that Kent County is getting the short end of the trail systems that
are very successful in New Castle County and down at the beaches. He noted that
they have the makings of one that could begin at Silver Lake and go all the way down
to Puncheon Run, almost all the way down to the Air Force Base. Mr. Slavin stated
that the middle piece that was never developed is planned to run from Legislative
Hall out to behind the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT).
Responding to Mr. Slavin, Mr. Harline advised that they had not addressed all
the environmental remediation. He noted that they are still in the voluntary cleanup
program and there is a plan to make a wetland meadow which could work very well
with this program.
Mr. Rocha stated that in addition to a beautiful riverwalk opportunity, there may be
an opportunity for economic development as well.
Mr. Taylor asked if it would be feasible for them to use one of the institutions of
higher learning. He stated that it could be a project for one of the students or a group
of the students for a grade. He noted that they could even turn it into a competition
to make a few dollars.
Mrs. Tracey Harvey, Planner/Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
Administrator, stated that the City received about $475,000 in CARES Act funding
for motel vouchers for the homeless with only$12,000 left. Mrs. Harvey requested
consideration for an additional $200,000 to be added to that so that those families
will not be put out on the streets and something permanent can be made possible
within that timeframe.
Ms. Donyale Hall requested that Council consider setting aside $75,000 for the
successful deployment of the summer project for the Innovative Readiness Training
(IRT). She noted that it would help with housing of the personnel through the Air
National Guard and to also have a fabulous public relations blitz.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Ms. Hall stated that it would include police overtime.
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Mr. Neil moved to recommend referring this item to Staff for consideration. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Rocha and unanimously carried.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Taylor and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Tree Planting Update (Informational Item)
Mr. Robin Eaton, Parks and Recreation Director, provided the following information
regarding the Tree Planting Update:
• Arbor Day is on April 30, 2021 and Earth Day is on April 22, 2021.
• There will be some tree planting events, the first at Mallard Pond on
April 22nd from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. and Dover Downs Hotel and Casino Staff
will be assisting with a park cleanup, creating a flower bed and planting three
trees.
• There will be an event at Mill Creek on April 30th and the North Starbucks
staff will be assisting with planting three trees to replace ones that have died.
• On Saturday, May 1, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. they will be at
Williams Park with a group of volunteers from Dover Air Force Base
planting three trees. Everyone was welcomed to participate.
• They received notification of a grant from DNREC the previous week for
$2,356. That money will be used on specific locations. Mr. Roger
Ridgeway, Jr., Field Supervisor II, went around with DNREC to identify
some of the tornado areas of Westview Terrace, where they lost a tremendous
amount of street trees. There are some trees going into Williams Street, which
were taken down as part of a water main replacement project and then some
trees are going into the Hamlet park, where they lost some due to the tornado.
• Last fall they identified trees in all of the parks, most of them were planted
trees within the last two or three years, that did not survive and they removed
them. Those are some of the ones being replaced as part of these plantings
and then Staff will continue to plant and replace those trees in the parks.
• They have a big project coming up on Bradford Street and have opportunities
for grants for that project as well. It will be determined by how many trees
coming down, when they are going to come down and what grant cycles they
can apply in to replace many of the trees on Bradford Street.
Responding to Mr. Rocha regarding how the trees are planted so they do not uproot
the sidewalk, Mr. Eaton stated that they have been trying to determine and pick
specific trees with root systems that do not necessarily want to be at the surface, but
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want to go down. He noted that he has not gotten there, but at other places he
implemented root deflectors, which is a polyvinyl material. They would plant it based
on size of the tree and in the early growth stages it directs those roots down as well.
There are some spaces that a tree should not be planted as it is not wide enough in
design. Mr. Eaton stated that they do have a tree standard ordinance that determines
how far they need to be from corners and fire plugs. He noted that they also always
look up to make sure what kind of power lines may be overhead.
Mr. Eaton advised that there was going to be a meeting on April 24th and one of his
topics is the trees in the City.
Col. Dix requested that the City submit an application to the Department of
Agriculture for matching funds of $25,000 for the City to cut the trees in Continental
Park. He recommended that they cut the young saplings under trees that are less than
three inches and go into the woods with a wood chipper and chip those up to curtail
the growth of the invasive plants. He stated that it would also open up the woods so
that a person can actually go into the woods and get between the trees and do what
is called "forest bathing." Col. Dix noted that there was a deadline in the middle of
the month.
Mr. Eaton advised that Col. Dix did communicate that request to him and it was
forwarded to the City Manager's Office. He noted that they are in the budget cycle
right now and Col. Dix was asking for $25,000 matching funds that were not
accounted for when they did the budget back in December and January. Mr. Eaton
noted that there are about 14 residents there who are highly against opening up that
wooded area. Mr. Robertson noted that they would need to ask the community again
what they would want.
Mr. Rocha noted that the project sounded as if it would be recurring. Responding to
Mr. Rocha, Mr. Eaton stated that he was not sure of the grant cycle and where the
funds were coming from and if they were recurring or not.
Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing Report (Informational Item)
Due to the absence of Ms. Jeanine Kleimo, Chair of the Dover Interfaith Mission for
Housing, no report was given.
Mr. Hare moved for adjournment of the Parks, Recreation, and
Community Enhancement Committee meeting. The motion was seconded by
Mr. Neil and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 7:44 p.m.
Mr. Neil moved for adjournment of the Council Committee of the Whole
meeting. The motion was seconded by Mr. Slavin and unanimously carried.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 26, 2021 PAGE 14
Meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for acceptance of the Council Committee of the Whole
Report, seconded by Mr. Taylor and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
QUARTERLY REVENUE REPORT
Members were provided the Quarterly Revenue Report as of March 31, 2021.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for acceptance of the Quarterly Revenue Report as of
March 31, 2021, seconded by Mr. Taylor and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
REQUEST FOR 10-DAY EXTENSION - 846 WESTVIEW TERRACE
Mr. Hare advised that, with Mr. Taylor, they were told that 846 Westview Terrace would be redone
within 45 days. He proposed that they request for a total rehabilitation and completion by
June 14, 2021.
Mr. Dave Hugg, Director of Planning and Community Development, advised that the owner and
contractor have shown great effort and have done a lot in the house. He noted that he took a tour of
the house last week and was impressed by both the dedication of the contractor and by what was
going on with the property. Mr. Hugg stated that Staff concurs with the recommendation and urge
that Council allow the owner the time to get the house repaired.
Mr. Hare moved to extend the deadline for the completion of the total rehabilitation of
846 Westview Terrace to June 14, 2021 and, if needed, an update from the Planning and
Inspections Department. The motion was seconded by Mr. Taylor and unanimously carried.
2021 REGULAR MUNICIPAL ELECTION RESULTS
Mrs. Traci A. McDowell, City Clerk, reported the results of the 2021 Regular Municipal Election
held on April 20, 2021, as follows:
AT-LARGE
CANDIDATE TOTAL VOTES
Andre M. Boggerty 470 (53%)
Michael W. Lewis 294 (33%)
LaVaughn T. McCutchen 125 (14%)
In accordance with Title 15 Del.C. §7555(j), where the number of qualified candidates for an office
is equal to or less than the number of seats up for election, the Board of Elections shall declare the
candidate or candidates elected.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 26, 2021 PAGE 15
Therefore, the following Council members have been re-elected:
First District - Gerald L. Rocha, Sr.
Second District - William F. Hare
Third District - Fred A. Neil
Fourth District - David L. Anderson
Additionally, Tricia K. Arndt has been elected to the Third District for a two-year term.
Mr. Sudler moved for approval of the Election Results as reported by the City Clerk. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried.
FIRST READING AND REFERRAL OF PROPOSED ORDINANCES
Council President Hare reminded the public that copies of the proposed ordinances were available
on the City's website at www.cityofdover.com under "Government," or by contacting the City Clerk's
Office at 736-7008 or cityclerk@dover.de.us. Since the ordinances amend the Comprehensive Map
and Plan, a public hearing is required. Staff recommended referral of the amendments to the
Planning Commission for a public hearing on May 17, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. and that a public hearing
be set before City Council on June 14, 2021 at 7:30 p.m. at which time the Second Reading and Final
Action by Council will take place.
Mr. Dave Hugg, Director of Planning and Community Development, advised that the proposed
amendments were all part of the implementation process associated with the Comprehensive Plan
requirements under state law.
Comprehensive Zoning Map Amendment
Ordinance #2021-09 - Amending the Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map of the City of Dover by
Changing the Zoning Designations to Conform with the 2019 Comprehensive Plan, as amended.
These recommendations of parcels for Rezoning have been identified as part of the Comprehensive
Rezoning 2021 Project and will be presented in map and listing formats.
(Planning Reference: MI-21-03 Comprehensive Rezoning 2021 Project)
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mr. Hugg advised that it is an extensive list of parcels that will be
subject for consideration and that trying to add that into an otherwise busy Council meeting might
make for a long and complex night. He stated that they felt it made more sense to ask for a Special
Council meeting that could be devoted entirely to the consideration of the parcels.
By unanimous consent, the Comprehensive Zoning Map Amendment - Proposed Ordinance
#2021-09 was referred to the Planning Commission for public hearing on May 17, 2021 at 5:30
p.m. and a public hearing before City Council was set for June 14, 2021 at 7:30 p.m.
In accordance with Section 1-9 of the Dover Code, Council acknowledged the First Reading of the
proposed Ordinance as read by the City Clerk, by title only, as follows:
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 26, 2021 PAGE 16
Ordinance #2021-09 Amending the Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map of the City of
Dover by Changing Zoning Designations of Certain Properties to Conform with the
2019 Comprehensive Plan.
Comprehensive Plan Amendment
Ordinance #2021-10 - Consideration of a series of plan text changes to Table 12-1: Land Use and
Zoning Matrix of the 2019 Comprehensive Plan (as amended). The changes to the Land Use and
Zoning Matrix will add several zoning districts to certain Land Use Categories.
(Planning Reference: MI-21-04 Comprehensive Plan Amendments 2021 Set #2)
Mr. Neil moved to refer the Comprehensive Plan Amendment - Proposed Ordinance #2021-10
to the Planning Commission for a public hearing on May 17, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. and to set a
public hearing before City Council on June 7, 2021 at 7:30 p.m. The motion was seconded by
Mr. Rocha and unanimously carried.
In accordance with Section 1-9 of the Dover Code, Council acknowledged the First Reading of the
proposed Ordinance as read by the City Clerk, by title only, as follows:
Ordinance #2021-10 Amending the 2019 Comprehensive Plan by Amending
Table 12-1: Land use and Zoning Matrix by adding zoning districts to certain land
use categories.
Comprehensive Plan Amendment
Ordinance #2021-11 - Consideration of a series of Amendments to Map 12-1: Land Development
Plan Map of the 2019 Comprehensive Plan (as amended). The Recommendations for the Land Use
Classifications to be revised is for a series of parcels citywide as discovered during the
parcel-by-parcel analysis and/or Comprehensive Rezoning Project process and are as listed in the
Summary Chart of Land Use Classifications.
(Planning Reference: MI-21-04 Comprehensive Plan Amendments 2021 Set #2)
Mr. Neil moved to refer the Comprehensive Plan Amendment - Proposed Ordinance #2021-10
to the Planning Commission for a public hearing on May 17, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. and to set a
public hearing before City Council on June 7, 2021 at 7:30 p.m. The motion was seconded by
Mr. Taylor and unanimously carried.
In accordance with Section 1-9 of the Dover Code, Council acknowledged the First Reading of the
proposed Ordinance as read by the City Clerk, by title only, as follows:
Ordinance #2021-11 Amending the 2019 Comprehensive Plan by Amending Map
12-1: Land Development Plan by Changing the Land Use Classifications of a Series
of Parcels Citywide.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 26, 2021 PAGE 17
CITY MANAGER'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Randy Robertson, City Manager, provided the following information:
• The Council Workshop is scheduled for Saturday, May 1, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. at
the Dover Public Library. It is scheduled to run until 4:00 p.m.
• The third edition of the Dispatch is due tomorrow and there are close to 3,000
subscribers.
• The job fair has exceeded every expectation so far, with 26 vendors.
Mr. Robertson spoke with HUD and they may be the of a 27th vendor. It is
scheduled to take place at the Pitts Center.
• Captain Jason Brooks, Delaware Army National Guard, will be coming in on
Wednesday to the Department Head meeting. Regarding Innovative Readiness
Training (IRT), they are down to about two primary interfaces where the City
may be able to help Captain Brooks, one is security and the other is
transportation. It is a Joint Service activity with the Air Force, Army and
Marines. All medics, doctors, physician assistants, paraprofessionals and
dentists. They will provide healthcare services late July and early August.
• Mr. Matt Harline, Assistant City Manager, will be approaching Council
members to organize budget meetings.
• Homeland Defense has a national team that does cyber security and they have
about 10 discreet mission fields. The City is now a candidate for their team
coming in, but no dates have been given yet. Mr. Lawrence Josefowski,
IT Director, retired Lieutenant Colonel has been instrumental in trying to work
with them and all of their services are free.
COUNCIL MEMBERS' ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Taylor thanked the Planning and Inspections Department for their work regarding
846 Westview Terrace.
Mr. Anderson recognized Ms. Susan Browne who had her 103rd birthday on Saturday.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Chief Johnson advised that they have an online tipper option
and people have the ability to remain anonymous when they call police headquarters either
using the seven digit number or 911.
Mr. Sudler congratulated and welcomed Council-Elect Tricia K. Arndt and
Andre M. Boggerty.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 26, 2021 PAGE 18
Mr. Neil moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Taylor and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:46 p.m.
TRACI A. McDOWELL
CITY CLERK
All ordinances, resolutions, motions, and orders adopted by City Council during their
Regular Meeting of April 26, 2021 are hereby approved.
ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
MAYOR
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