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COUNCIL RETREAT
A Council Retreat was held on March 22, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. with Council President Leary presiding.
Council members present were Mr. Anderson (arrived at 3:06 p.m., departed at 3:38 p.m., returned at 3:43 p.m.,
departed at 5:19 p.m., returned at 5:21 p.m. and departed at 5:42 p.m.) , Mr. Dixon (departed at 3: 27 p.m. and returned
at 5:03 p.m.) , Mr. Lynn (arrived at 4:07 p.m.) , Mr. Bonar, Mr. Hare, and Mr. Hutchison. Mrs. Williams
and Mr. Perza were absent.
Council staff members present were Mr. Koenig, Mrs. Mitchell, Police Chief Hosfelt,
Mrs. Townshend, Ms. Russell, and Mrs. McDowell. Mayor Carey was also present (departed at 5:33
p.m., returned at 5:34 p.m., departed at 5:36 p.m.) .
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Bonar moved for adoption of the agenda as submitted, seconded by Mr. Hutchison and
unanimously carried.
INTRODUCTION
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, reminded members that in previous years, during the Council
Retreat, members would review strategic goals, financial matters, etc.; however, during the past two
(2) years, focus had been given to finance in an attempt to balance the budget. He explained that
during this year’s Retreat, members would be provided an update on the Quarterly Revenues and
preliminary Budgets as well changes in staffing levels. In addition, he stated that staff requested
members to relay their concerns and desires as the budget for FY2014 is developed. He advised
members that meetings had been held with individual departments reviewing their draft budgets and
that the initial iterations of determining if their requests are “needs” or “wants.”
QUARTERLY REVENUE UPDATE - FY13 AND FY14 - GENERAL FUND,
WATER/WASTEWATER FUND, AND ELECTRIC FUND
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, reviewed the Revenue Reports through
February 28, 2013 (Exhibit #1), which included FY13 and FY14 forecasts for the General,
Water/Wastewater, and Electric Funds.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Mitchell confirmed that the projections for the Water/Wastewater
for FY13 and FY14 reflect no volume growth. Elaborating, Mr. Koenig stated that there is little to
no residential growth and that there had been a decline in industrial and commercial use of utilities.
In June 2015, when the Calpine plant is scheduled to come on line, if those forecasts hit the demand
as indicated, there will be a significant increase in water revenue in the amount of approximately
$1.5M-$2M per year due to the high demand for the facility.
Mr. Koenig noted that, as with many local governments, the City’s Budget is substantially driven
by the City’s residential and commercial growth. In reference to the transfer from Civil Traffic
Penalties Fund in the General Fund (Line 15), which are monies received from the Red Light Camera
Program, Mrs. Mitchell stated that the revised projection for FY13 had been decreased due to a
major camera not functioning for a period of time. She stated that the decrease in the projection for
FY14 considered that drivers would become accustomed to the cameras, resulting in a decrease in
the number of drivers running the lights.
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COUNCIL RETREAT OF MARCH 22, 2013 PAGE 2
In response to Mr. Bonar, Police Chief Hosfelt stated that the red light camera that was not
functioning for almost the whole year was located at Route 13 and White Oak Road. He stated that
a vendor is responsible for ensuring that the red light cameras are operating and that Delaware
Department of Transportation (DelDOT) holds that contract. He stated his understanding that
DelDOT officials reviewed the contract and would not be pursuing red light cameras that were not
functioning. Chief Hosfelt stated that the vendor was American Traffic Solutions (ATS), which had
been bought out by a new company who has installed new cameras at different locations.
Chief Hosfelt indicated that he was not sure of the amount the City is provided from the $113
collected for each red light camera. Mr. Koenig recalled that the City receives the majority of the
monies (between $50-$75).
PRELIMINARY FY14 BUDGETS - GENERAL FUND, GRANT FUNDS,
WATER/WASTEWATER FUND, AND ELECTRIC FUND
Mrs. Mitchell reviewed the 2013-2014 Fund Summaries (Exhibit #2), noting that the General Fund
Budget currently had a shortage of $718,500. Referring to the Electric Revenue Fund, she explained
that there was an excess carry forward, due to favorable power supply costs in the amount of
$12,379,200 this year. If this carries forward to the next year, she stated that it will total
$20,580,000. She stated her desire to discuss the possibility of providing an adjusted rate (lower)
or a Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) credit with Mr. Ted Kelly, Senior Project Manager, Burns &
McDonnell, who conducted a rate study for the City. She explained that the five (5) year forecast
should be completed prior to making a final decision in this regard. Mr. Koenig advised members
that the favorable costs were the result of changes made to the City’s hedge program, explaining that
some very expensive hedges that had started to come off and the repurchase of those hedges is less
expensive. In addition, he stated that the actual percent of hedges was at 85% at one time, and now
is approximately 60%-70%, and the City had dropped a percentage in the portfolio of the hedges;
therefore, the City was buying more on the spot market, which was quite a bit more favorable.
For further clarification, Mrs. Mitchell provided members with the Electric Power Supply and
Generation Trends for FY12 Budget and FY13 and FY14 Forecasts (Exhibit #3) and noted that the
FY13 Revised amount was $8.5M and the FY14 Forecast was $5.8M, which was favorable
compared to last year. Mr. Koenig indicated the complexities of the energy purchase markets as well
as the PJM.
Mrs. Mitchell advised members that some large utility customers had questioned future rates and that
she indicated no change in water/sewer rates and a possible decrease in electric rates or a PCA credit.
With reference to competitiveness, Mr. Koenig stated that the City’s residential electric rates were
very competitive; however, there had been criticism of the City’s commercial electric rates. From
a business and economic development standpoint, he felt that the City should focus on these rates
in an effort to attract businesses or improve business partnerships.
Mrs. Mitchell reminded members that the City established the Rate Stabilization Fund and as long
as that reserve is maintained, she felt confident that the City would have the ability to manage any
temporary or short-term fluctuations.
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COUNCIL RETREAT OF MARCH 22, 2013 PAGE 3
Mr. Hare questioned if the City of Dover Electric System Valuation study recently completed by
GAI Consultants contained information on the value of Units 1 and 2. Mr. Koenig stated that, due
to depreciation, Units 1 and 2 (from 1961) have no value. He explained that the study determined
the market value of the electric system if it were to be sold and outlined the associated impact to the
community.
Mrs. Mitchell reviewed the Personnel Cost Comparison (Exhibit #4). She advised members that
$309,000 is the result of Medical Insurances from the 6%+ increase, and $339,800 is the result of
OPEB increases, reminding members that there are some issues where there is no control over
expenses.
By unanimous consent, members took a brief recess.
Meeting recessed at 3:48 p.m. and reconvened at 3:59 p.m.
PROGRAM REVENUES - POLICE EXTRA-DUTY
Mrs. Mitchell provided members with the Tampa Police Department Extra-Duty Conditions and
Permit (Exhibit #5), which is a policy for the Tampa, Florida Police Department. In reviewing
several policies and procedures for other jurisdictions, she felt that the Tampa Procedure could be
modified to meet the City’s needs in this regard. She explained that there were issues with the
revenue and expenses reported for Police Extra Duty and provided members an Analysis of Police
Extra Duty and Law Enforcement Revenues - Non-Extra Duty (Exhibit #6). As an example, she
stated that the City was billed for $593 in October 2006 and $603 in May 2007 for services provided
for the Municipal Election. These, as well as other expenses, remain as outstanding receivables,
totaling $52,499 as of February 28, 2013. In researching, she discovered that payment was reflected
in the City Clerk’s Office Budget for the Police Extra-Duty in October 2006 and May 2007;
however, these payments were not reflected in the receivables, which indicated that the revenue was
credited somewhere else in the ledger.
In addition, Mrs. Mitchell stated that the Police have Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
overtime through a grant which had been coded as Extra-Duty for the DEA officers’ time. This was
not being counted as Extra-Duty revenue since it was in the DEA revenue. By adding the DEA
revenue to the Police Extra-Duty, the gap between the revenue and expenses for the Police
Extra-Duty would not be as large; therefore, she explained that there were some accounting and
billing issues that needed to be resolved. Once staff finalizes a procedure for Police Extra-Duty, she
assured members that it would be presented to City Council for approval.
Responding to Mr. Bonar, Mrs. Mitchell indicated that she would work with the Chief Hosfelt to
determine the possibility of developing a means to automate payments to resolve some of these
issues.
Mr. Hare questioned if the City bills all costs associated with providing the Police Extra Duty, such
as Workman’s Compensation, administration, etc. Responding, Mrs. Mitchell explained that the
Police Department bills for police officers’ wages, plus Worker’s Compensation and the Federal
Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) rate. However, she noted that since some grants allow for
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COUNCIL RETREAT OF MARCH 22, 2013 PAGE 4
charges only up to a certain amount, there are instances where the City does not recover all costs
involving grants. Otherwise, she assured members that the City recovers the costs of labor and
benefits associated with police officers but not the administration or vehicle costs, which is one of
the reasons for developing a policy that would create a rate that would cover all costs, plus the
possibility of a mark-up.
STAFFING LEVELS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Referring to Exhibit #4, Mr. Koenig noted that staff had estimated $30M being spent on personnel
costs. He advised members that the City’s personnel is its biggest asset and, at the same time, the
City’s biggest liability in terms of a single financial payment. As a result, he stated that the City’s
biggest investment was its personnel.
Mr. Koenig reviewed the FY2013 Annual Operating Budget - Personnel Table (Exhibit #7),
indicating that there were a total of 350 full-time and 36 part-time employees. He explained that the
handwritten numbers were being proposed for FY2014. He advised members that although there
had been an increase in Code Enforcement (from four (4) to five (5) employees), staff transferred
an employee from the Inspections Department to Code Enforcement, which resulted in a decrease
in personnel for the Inspections Department (from seven (7) to six (6) employees). He stated that
the net result of personnel proposed is 345 full-time positions. He explained that there had been
requests for additional personnel for those departments that were highlighted. Ultimately, he felt that
the City should be able to continue to operate effectively with a total 350 full-time positions if the
right people were in the right positions and were focused on their jobs.
Mr. Koenig reviewed a Presentation of Staffing Levels and Recommendations (Exhibit #8). In
regard to the Pension Plan, he advised members that there were 130 active employees in the defined
benefit plan and that new employees are no longer eligible for the defined benefit plan, with the
exception of new Police Officers due to their participation in the State Plan. He stated that the Police
Department’s request for an Accreditation Manager had been ranked as #3 and that it may not be
budgeted for the upcoming year. He explained that as a policy issue, transfer of some of the duties
of Police Officers to a civilian employee should be considered. As a result, he advised members that
rather than increasing the number of officers, there may be an addition of a civilian position, which
would result in more police manpower on the City streets.
Responding to Mr. Bonar, Mr. Koenig stated that there had been brief discussions regarding the
possibility of shared dispatch operations for the Police and Fire Departments. However, he stated
that there were issues regarding the security of the Fire Department, explaining that Fire Dispatchers
play a role in allowing access to the facility and maintaining it. He stated that, although this was not
an insurmountable issue, there were concerns and advised members that the Fire Department also
indicated that this could impact their mission and how they secure their buildings. He felt that there
were alternatives that could be evaluated in this regard, explaining that there were examples of other
jurisdictions that handle these matters differently than the City.
To alleviate the need for additional employees for the Customer Service Department, Mr. Koenig
stated that there had been discussions regarding the possibility of installing payment kiosks at
5 East Reed Street and the new Library. In response to Mr. Anderson, Mr. Koenig stated that
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COUNCIL RETREAT OF MARCH 22, 2013 PAGE 5
although there would be fees involved, the use of debit/credit cards is a reality of doing business.
He noted that staff would like to add in debit/credit card transaction fees and had been discussing
how this could be accomplished to accommodate debit/credit card use. Mrs. Mitchell advised
members that the fees for the use of debit/credit cards are based on volume of users. Mr. Koenig
stated that the ultimate desire was for customers not to be involved in these types of fee transactions
and for fees be built into the customer charge or rates.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mr. Koenig reminded members that the lock box costs $50,000; however,
the use of the lock box eliminated a position in the Customer Service Department.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison regarding Electric Department Personnel, Mr. Koenig stated that there
were several key positions that were vacant, including the Electric Director, Electric Engineering,
Superintendent of Line Crew, etc. He stated his desire to fill these positions; however, he was
waiting for the completion of the Valuation Study to obtain direction, explaining that these are very
difficult positions to recruit and that there should be a determination if the City is going to sell its
Electric Utility before such a process is started. Once City Council provides direction regarding the
future of the Electric Utility, staff would be prepared to take appropriate action to begin the process
of filling these positions.
DISCUSSION ABOUT REVENUES
Referring to Exhibit #1, Mr. Koenig reiterated that the City’s revenues are driven by the construction
market. He stated that the reason the building permit fees were above what was anticipated was
solely due to the construction of the new Dover High School. He explained that the residential and
commercial growth component is very important to the City’s General Fund Budget. In addition,
he stated that residential and commercial growth drives the impact fees for water and sewer, which
help to pay off long-term debt in the water and sewer utility or help offset costs associated with the
growth projects in the water and/or sewer utilities.
With regard to new revenues, Mr. Koenig stated that although there are potential camera projects
in school zones related to speed safety, since the legislation has not been adopted, these monies were
not included in the proposed budget. He explained his understanding that there is legislation that
would create a pilot program for Wilmington and Dover to put speed cameras in one (1) or more
school zones within the City limits, similar to the red light program; however, he stated that the
legislation had not received enough votes to get out of committee. He noted that the technology was
available to institute such a program. Should this program come to fruition, he would anticipate a
spike in revenues originally but then a decline once drivers become aware of the cameras.
Mr. Koenig reminded members that there had been discussion regarding the possibility of instituting
a hotel tax. He suggested the possibility of working with Kent County regarding this matter, feeling
that it would serve as a revenue source for them as well. He advised members that the hotel industry
had been adamantly opposed to the tax, explaining that it had allowed them a competitive advantage
in securing conventions and similar events. He stated that most areas include a local and county
hotel tax and felt that this was a matter that should be further discussed.
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COUNCIL RETREAT OF MARCH 22, 2013 PAGE 6
Mr. Koenig stated that property taxes raise significant amounts of money for the City of Dover;
therefore, unless members had alternative ideas, in order to address the $718,500 budget deficit in
the General Fund, staff would be proposing an increase in the tax rate.
Referring to the $718,500 budget deficit, Mr. Koenig advised members that it did not include
ambulance service, an increase to the $51,000 for the Downtown Dover Partnership, salary increases
for the non-bargaining employees, staffing fees, etc. Once these amounts are included, he anticipated
a deficit in the amount of $750,000-$1,000,000. It was his opinion that the City would continue to
have a difficult time balancing the General Fund budget if the tax rate were not adjusted, expressing
the dire need to stabilize the General Fund.
Referring to the Electric Fund, Mr. Koenig stated that there were concerns regarding the City’s
commercial and some industrial rates and that he anticipated that members of Council would hear
from businesses regarding this issue. He advised members that business owners had indicated that
if the electric rate were adjusted, businesses would come to the area, which would bring jobs and
residential growth to the City. As previously indicated, he stated that the commercial and residential
growth would help mend some of the other issues in the General Fund and the City’s Budget in
general.
PRIORITIES FOR NEXT YEAR
Mr. Koenig reviewed a Presentation - Ambulance Service for the Robbins Hose Fire District
(Exhibit #9). He stated that the City’s current ambulance provider is Prime Care and that the
contract is effective through calendar year 2015. The current contract includes ambulance service
within the City limits; however, he stated that the Robbins Hose Fire District extends beyond the
City limits. As indicated on Page 2 of the presentation, he noted that during the last 10 years,
ambulance calls had increased from 3,860 in 2002 to 6,599 in 2012. Mr. Koenig stated that as the
City has grown, members have discussed the impact on the City’s water system, trash collection,
annexation, etc.; however, he did not recall any discussion regarding the impact on some of the
City’s life safety issues and emergency services.
With reference to the other ambulance service providers, Mr. Koenig explained that he had been
made aware of operational problems being experienced. He was advised that these ambulance
service providers have a paid ambulance staff that has had to address calls in Dover. When the
ambulance responds to an emergency in Dover, ambulance drivers are the same individuals who
drive fire trucks. Therefore, if the jurisdiction receives a fire call while on an ambulance run, it
reduces the amount of people available to drive fire trucks, which results in a domino effect.
Mr. Koenig stated that staff was trying to determine if more coverage is needed in the daytime and
questioned if there were a way to reposition the impact on adjoining ambulance service providers.
Responding to Mr. Hare, Mr. Koenig stated that staff was working on various concepts and
associated costs in order to present a recommendation during budget review.
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COUNCIL RETREAT OF MARCH 22, 2013 PAGE 7
Referring to the growth chart (Page 2 of presentation), Council President Leary noted that the
increase did not represent the City’s population increase and questioned what was driving the
increased calls. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that the 55 and older community has caused the
substantial increase.
Mr. Bonar advised members that the legislature was reviewing this matter in an attempt to alleviate
some of the costs associated with providing ambulance services.
CONCERNS OF COUNCIL MEMBERS
Council President Leary noted that concerns had been relayed by members of Council regarding
certain issues, as follows:
Building Security
Referring to a recent shooting at the New Castle County Courthouse, Mr. Lynn explained his
concerns regarding building security for the City of Dover, particularly City Hall, specifically as it
related to Council and Committee Meetings. He noted that most other governmental buildings in
the area had armed security personnel as well as metal detectors and he found it somewhat
disconcerting that the City had no security protocols in place for City Hall. Referring to access to
the back door of City Hall during City Council Meetings, he suggested that minimally, the back door
should be secured so that people would not be permitted to enter or exit at that location. He also
suggested that there be a uniformed Dover Police Officer at City Hall, in conjunction with a metal
detector or wand, checking individuals before they are permitted to enter the Council Chambers.
Mr. Bonar stated the possibility of Homeland Security Funds being available in order to provide
some type of security features as suggested.
Open Forum Policy
Council President Leary noted that often is no one wishing to take advantage of the Open Forum
provided to the public 15 minutes prior to each Regular Council Meeting. In addition, he stated that
there had been individuals who do not reside in the City of Dover addressing members regarding
non-productive issues during this time. He questioned if members feel that the Open Forum should
be altered, changed, eliminated, or used only when a request is made in advance.
Mr. Hutchison felt that City Council should continue to have an Open Forum segment; however, he
suggested that it be held at the conclusion of the Council Meeting rather than prior to the Meeting.
He felt that the concerns that had been brought to members during the Open Forum could have been
addressed at another time or through other means and suggested that holding it at the conclusion of
the meeting would still allow for the public to relay their points of view.
Although he understood the suggestion, Mr. Hare explained that offering the Open Forum prior to
the Council Meeting provides the public 15 minutes to speak and if the Open Forum were held at
the conclusion, there would be no time limit and the Open Forum could become quite lengthy.
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COUNCIL RETREAT OF MARCH 22, 2013 PAGE 8
Council President Leary reminded members that a television camera would continue to be on if the
Open Forum were held at the conclusion of the Council Meeting and that individuals may speak
simply to have that type of publicity.
Mr. Lynn explained that the airing of grievances is a fundamental constitutional right protected by
the First Amendment, which is not just the freedom of speech but contains five (5) other freedoms,
including the right to petition. It was his opinion that the Open Forum provides the public the
opportunity to petition and air grievances and relayed reluctance to make any changes whatsoever.
Council President Leary questioned support for limiting the use of the Open Forum to only City
residents. Responding, Mr. Anderson reminded members that there would be instances where an
individual may not live in the City limits but may own property, have businesses, work, worship, etc.
within the City limits and should be provided an opportunity to address members of City Council.
It was his opinion that the Open Forum had proven beneficial and helpful to members of Council
and City staff and that no changes should be made at this time.
Mr. Lynn suggested that there be a policy change prohibiting the use of delegation of time.
Responding, Council President Leary stated that there could be a simple change to the Open Forum
statement that is read aloud.
Dover Human Relations Commission
Mr. Hutchison noted that the Dover Human Relations Commission (DHRC) consists of 15 members
who are appointed for three (3) year terms. He stated that 22 of the appointees quit prior to
completing their terms and that there were currently of six (6) vacancies. He suggested that members
consider eliminating the DHRC and to allow the State of Delaware Human Relations Commission
to handle these matters for the City of Dover. He relayed concerns that there had been periods when
the DHRC had not received complaints and began “looking” for complaints, which he feels creates
a serious liability for the City.
Mr. Hare advised members that the State Human Relations Commission meets only when a
complaint is received. He suggested that if the DHRC were retained, it should function in the same
manner as the State.
Concurring, Mr. Anderson felt that the DHRC has a viable function but that the Commission should
not be required to meet every month. He suggested that once a quarter would be more reasonable
and if there were an intake issue/complaint needing to be addressed, a meeting could be held to
review this. He reminded members that members of the DHRC are not compensated although they
are required to meet monthly and felt that there would be more cooperation if they were not required
to meet as frequently as currently required.
Mr. Dixon relayed his support for the DHRC; however, he agreed that the monthly meeting
requirement may be excessive and that a meeting once per quarter would be sufficient.
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COUNCIL RETREAT OF MARCH 22, 2013 PAGE 9
Mr. Bonar stated that although he agreed with the suggestion to require the DHRC to meet quarterly
rather than monthly, he also agreed with Mr. Hutchison regarding the concept of the City utilizing
the State Human Relations Commission for any concerns or complaints. He suggested that the
Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee review this matter and also to consider other
committees and commissions to determine if improvements could be made to all.
Mr. Hutchison stated his concern with there being 15 members on the DHRC and suggested
consideration of reducing the membership to five (5) or seven (7).
In response to Mr. Bonar, Mr. Lynn agreed to place this matter on an upcoming agenda; however,
he requested that staff develop a presentation to include an historical overview to include its origin
and initial mandates, etc.
Council President Leary thanked City staff for their assistance in conducting the Council Retreat.
By unanimous consent, the meeting adjourned at 5:45 p.m.
Thomas J. Leary
Council President
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Exhibits
Exhibit #1 - Revenue Reports through February 28, 2013
Exhibit #2 - 2013-2014 Fund Summaries
Exhibit #3 - Electric Power Supply and Generation Trends for FY12 Budget and FY13 and FY14 Forecasts
Exhibit #4 - Personnel Cost Comparison
Exhibit #5 - Tampa Police Department Extra-Duty Conditions and Permit
Exhibit #6 - Analysis of Police Extra Duty and Law Enforcement Revenues - Non-Extra Duty
Exhibit #7 - FY2013 Annual Operating Budget - Personnel Table
Exhibit #8 - Presentation of Staffing Levels and Recommendations
Exhibit #9 - Presentation - Ambulance Service for the Robbins Hose Fire District
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EXHIBIT #1
Council Retreat of 03/22/2013
EXHIBIT #1
Council Retreat of 03/22/2013
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EXHIBIT #2
Council Retreat of 03/22/2013
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EXHIBIT #3
Council Retreat of 03/22/2013
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EXHIBIT #4
Council Retreat of 03/22/2013
EXHIBIT #4
Council Retreat of 03/22/2013
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EXHIBIT #5
Council Retreat of 03/22/2013
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EXHIBIT #6
Council Retreat of 03/22/2013
EXHIBIT #6
Council Retreat of 03/22/2013
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EXHIBIT #7
Council Retreat of 03/22/2013
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EXHIBIT #8
Council Retreat of 03/22/2013
EXHIBIT #8
Council Retreat of 03/22/2013
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EXHIBIT #9
Council Retreat of 03/22/2013
EXHIBIT #9
Council Retreat of 03/22/2013