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REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular Council Meeting was held on August 8, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. with Council President Leary
presiding. Council members present were Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Russell, Dr. McGlumphy, Mr. Lynn,
Mr. Bonar, Mr. Hare, and Mr. Hutchison. Mrs. Williams was absent.
Council staff members present were Police Chief Hosfelt, Ms. Russell, Mrs. Mitchell,
Mrs. Townshend, Fire Chief Fortney, Mr. Koenig, Deputy City Solicitor Pepper, and
Mrs. McDowell. Mayor Carey was also present.
OPEN FORUM
The Open Forum was held at 7:15 p.m., prior to commencement of the Official Council Meeting.
Council President Leary 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 Chaplain Dixon, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Hutchison moved for approval of the agenda as presented, seconded by Mr. Bonar and
unanimously carried.
Mr. Bonar moved for approval of the consent agenda, seconded by Mrs. Russell and carried
by a unanimous roll call vote (Mrs. Williams absent).
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 25, 2011
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of July 25, 2011 were unanimously approved by
motion of Mr. Bonar, seconded by Mrs. Russell, and bore the written approval of
Mayor Carey.
VIOLATION OF DANGEROUS BUILDING ORDINANCE - 70 MIFFLIN ROAD
(ROBERT STONE)
In accordance with Article XI - Dangerous Buildings, Sec. 22-388 - Emergency cases, of the
Dover Code, in cases where it reasonably appears that there is an immediate danger to the life or
safety of any person unless a dangerous building is immediately repaired, vacated and closed, or
demolished, the building inspector shall report such facts to the council, which may cause the
immediate repair, vacation, or demolition of such dangerous building.
Mr. Scott Koenig, Interim City Manager, stated that the property located at 70 Mifflin Road is owned
by Mr. Robert M. Stone and consists of a one (1) story, single-family, wood-framed dwelling that
was damaged by fire in May 2011. An inspection indicated that at least 60% of the roof has burned
away, leaving most of the interior fully exposed. There is an uncovered in-ground pool in the rear
yard that has no water in it. Since the house is set back from the road, with limited visibility from
the road and neighboring properties, Mr. Koenig stated that there are concerns that the inability to
secure the building makes it conducive to entry and unsafe to the surrounding community. Based
on these circumstances, the property was forwarded to City Council under the “emergency cases”
provision. Mr.Koenig reviewed a presentation which included slides depicting the condition of the
structure (Exhibit #1).
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF AUGUST 8, 2011 PAGE 2
Mr. Koenig advised members that verbal contact was made with Mr. Stone on July 28, 2011,who
indicated that he was unable to demolish the structure; however, he agreed that it cannot be salvaged.
Mr. Koenig stated that notice of City Council’s consideration of this matter was mailed to all lien
holders.
Staff recommended that City Council: 1) declare this building, the pool, and the accessory building
dangerous; 2) order the property repaired or demolished by August 18, 2011 by the owner or equity
owner at their own risk; 3) order the Building Inspector to cause the repair or demolition of the
structures if not completed by the owner within ten (10) days of the date set by Council; and 4) order
the City Manager, with the assistance of the City Solicitor, to cause the cost of repairs or demolition
to be charged against the land on which the buildings 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.
Responding to Mr. Lynn, Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community
Development, stated that although homeowner’s insurance was not discussed with Mr. Stone during
their conversation on July 28, 2011, the Fire Marshal’s Office indicated that Mr. Stone did not have
homeowner’s insurance on the property. She assured members that Mr. Stone was advised of the
public hearing scheduled at this time.
Mr. Koenig stated that demolition notices were sent to lien holders including the Kent County Tax
Office, the Division of Revenue, the Internal Revenue Service, Mrs. Helen Stone, First State Federal
Credit Union, and Citizens Bank, as well as to Mr. Stone. He indicated that the City has not received
responses regarding the notice from any of the lien holders. Mrs. Townshend confirmed that one (1)
lien holder, Mrs. Stone, was not made aware of the public hearing scheduled at this time.
Council President Leary declared the public hearing open. There being no one present wishing to
speak, Council President Leary declared the public hearing closed.
Mr. Hare moved to declare the property located at 70 Mifflin Road, owned by
Robert M. Stone, a dangerous building and subject to demolition, as follows: 1) declare the
building, the pool, and the accessory building dangerous; 2) order the property repaired or
demolished by August 18, 2011 by the owner or equity owner at their own risk; 3) order the
Building Inspector to cause the repair or demolition of the structures if not completed by the
owner within ten (10) days of the date set by Council; and 4) order the City Manager, with the
assistance of the City Solicitor, to cause the cost of repairs or demolition to be charged against
the land on which the buildings exists as a municipal lien, or cause such cost to be added to the
tax duplicate as an assessment, or to be levied as a special tax, or to be recovered in a suit at
law against the owner. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hutchison.
In response to Mr. Bonar, Mr. Koenig stated that, to his knowledge, all investigations by the Police
Department and Fire Marshal’s Office were complete; however, he was not aware of the results.
Expressing concerns with evidence preservation, Mr. Bonar suggested that the demolition be delayed
until Council is assured that all investigations are complete. He also requested that Mrs. Stone be
contacted prior to the demolition. Responding, Mrs. Townshend advised members that the Fire
Marshal’s Office and Code Enforcement Division have requested the emergency demolition due to
safety concerns.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF AUGUST 8, 2011 PAGE 3
Regarding the completion of investigations, Police Chief Fortney stated that there were two (2)
separate fires; the first was due to electrical problems and the second was due to rekindling.
Responding to concerns of Mr. Lynn regarding potential ramifications from a lien holder, Deputy
City Solicitor Pepper stated that the Post Office has attempted delivery of the notice and that the City
will probably receive notification that delivery is unclaimed. He explained that the concern would
be regarding any potential harm Mrs. Stone would sustain, and he did not feel that she could sustain
harm due to the condition of the building. Mr. Pepper stated that Mrs. Stone’s position may be
compromised to some extent by the amount of the City’s lien.
In response to Mr. Lynn regarding the banks that are lien holders, Mr. Pepper stated that he believed
that the liens involved are judgment liens rather than mortgage liens, which would typically require
homeowner’s insurance.
On a call for the question by Mr. Bonar, the motion to declare the property located at
70 Mifflin Road a dangerous building and subject to demolition, as recommended by staff, was
carried by a roll call vote of seven (7) yes, one (1) no (Mr. Lynn), and one (1) absent
(Mrs. Williams).
PUBLIC HEARING/FINAL READING - PROPOSED ZONING TEXT AMENDMENTS
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider approval of Proposed
Ordinance #2011-14, containing zoning text amendments that would amend the procedures for
conditional use permits, site development plans, architectural review certificates, and amendments
to the zoning ordinance. Included in the proposed amendments were measures to clarify and
streamline certain review processes and expand public notification requirements.
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, reviewed a
presentation and advised members that the Planning Commission recommended approval of the
proposed Ordinance amendments with the addition of PC Amendment #1.
Mr. Hutchison moved that the Final Reading of Proposed Ordinance #2011-14 be
acknowledged by title only, seconded by Mr. Hare and unanimously carried. (The First Reading
of the Proposed Ordinance was accomplished during the Council Meeting of June 27, 2011.)
Council President Leary declared the hearing open. There being no one present wishing to speak
during the public hearing, Council President Leary declared the hearing closed.
Mr. Lynn and Mr. Anderson commended staff on their preparation of Ordinance #2011-14.
By motion of Mr. Anderson, seconded by Mr. Lynn, Council adopted Proposed
Ordinance #2011-14 (Exhibit #2), as recommended by the Planning Commission, by a
unanimous roll call vote (Mrs. Williams absent).
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF AUGUST 8, 2011 PAGE 4
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE REPORT -
JULY 25, 2011
The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee met on July 25, 2011 with
Chairman McGlumphy presiding.
Review and Recommendation - Filling of Critical Positions
During their meeting of February 23, 2009, members recommended approval of a Hiring Freeze for
Fiscal Year 2008-2009, but to allow the hiring of critical positions through the review and approval
of the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee and City Council. It was suggested that
there be a “standing” agenda item to consider the filling of critical positions and, if there were no
positions to consider, the item could be removed.
Communications Dispatcher - Police Department
Police Chief James Hosfelt reviewed a request to recruit two (2) Communications Dispatchers for
the Police Department 911 Center to fill vacancies that will be created by the resignation of two (2)
employees. He explained that he intends for these positions to first be posted in-house, city-wide
to determine if there are dispatchers currently employed in other departments who may be interested.
He indicated that if there are no interested in-house candidates, he would then refer to the list of one
(1) or possibly two (2) candidates from the last testing cycle. If neither of these options result in
filling the positions, Chief Hosfelt stated that he would then request to advertise the positions
through the paper and local media.
Mr. Hare questioned if the positions would be posted in-house for 30 days. Responding,
Chief Hosfelt stated that he would follow Human Resources’ guidelines.
Mr. Hare stated that he did not believe that there were established guidelines regarding the length
of time required for in-house postings and suggested that 30 days would provide enough time.
In addition to the hiring justification outline provided, he noted that last year the dispatch center
handled over 115,000 calls, 35,000 of which were 911 emergency calls. Chief Hosfelt stated that
in the last two (2) pay cycles, 65 hours of overtime pay was expended to cover these two (2)
positions.
Chief Hosfelt provided members with Payroll Information for Hiring Replacements and indicated
that the top two (2) tables reflect the cost breakdown for dispatchers (noting that the other tables
address other positions). He explained that the pension fund payout consists of employee
contributions which do not affect the City’s Budget.
Dr. McGlumphy relayed appreciation for the Payroll Information for Hiring Replacements and
suggested that this be considered a model for any department submitting a request for filling critical
positions.
The Committee recommended approval of the request to recruit two (2) Communications
Dispatchers for the Police Department 911 Center by posting in-house for a minimum of 30 days
prior to publicly advertising the positions, as recommended by staff.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF AUGUST 8, 2011 PAGE 5
By consent agenda, Mr. Bonar moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mrs. Russell and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Mrs. Williams absent).
Review of Grant Application - FY11 Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Program
Police Chief James Hosfelt advised members that the Dover Police Department recently received
its annual allocation from the Office of Justice Programs (OJP) for the 2011 Justice Assistance Grant
(JAG). Similar to previous years, the Dover Police Department was identified as a disparate funding
agency, along with the Smyrna Police Department and Kent County, because there is no law
enforcement function at the county level, unlike New Castle County in northern Delaware.
Chief Hosfelt explained that this disparate condition requires the submission of a joint grant
application for the three (3) agencies. Since the Dover Police Department will be receiving the
largest share of the grant, it will serve as the fiscal and administrative agent and all funds for the
grant will be disbursed through City of Dover accounts; however, Smyrna Police Department
expenses will still be controlled and approved by the City of Smyrna.
Chief Hosfelt reminded members that this is a recurring grant and there are no costs to the City
associated with the grant. He reviewed the breakdown of funds and the items that the Dover Police
Department plans to purchase with the funds, as follows:
Department Amount
Dover Police Department
– two (2) police cruisers with computer and lighting equipment $60,051.00
Smyrna Police Department
– police motorcycle and other equipment 11,969.00
GRAND TOTAL $72,020.00
Chief Hosfelt explained that the Department planned to use the funds to replace two (2) vehicles that
were currently being utilized by supervisors and had accumulated many miles. He noted that these
vehicles were previously planned for replacement; however, proposed funding was eliminated from
the budget.
Staff recommended approval of the grant project as requested.
Responding to Mr. Shevock, Chief Hosfelt reiterated that the City of Smyrna will be responsible for
their purchases and the payments for those purchases.
The Committee recommended approval of the FY11 Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant
Program, as recommended by staff.
By consent agenda, Mr. Bonar moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mrs. Russell and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Mrs. Williams absent).
Review of Grant Application - FY10 Buffer Zone Protection Program Grant (DEMA)
Police Chief James Hosfelt reviewed a sub-grant award received from the Delaware Emergency
Management Agency (DEMA) with funds provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF AUGUST 8, 2011 PAGE 6
(FEMA). He noted that all funds for the grant will be accounted for through the City’s financial
system (HTE) and administered by the Dover Police Department. He outlined the agencies, items,
and amounts approved on this grant, as follows:
Agency Purpose Cost
City of Dover Physical security enhancements $ 20,000.00
Dover Downs Physical security enhancements 137,500.00
Dover Police Department License Plate Reader 32,500.00
TOTAL $190,000.00
Staff recommended approval of the project and purchase as requested. Police Chief Hosfelt noted
that there are no costs to the City associated with this grant.
Responding to Mr. Hare, Police Chief Hosfelt stated this grant will allow for the purchase of one (1)
license plate reader. Responding to Mr. Shevock, Police Chief Hosfelt confirmed that information
is obtained through the license plate reader instantaneously; therefore officers will have immediate
access to information, such as whether a vehicle is stolen, etc.
In response to Dr. Jones, Police Chief Hosfelt explained that the physical security enhancements
for Dover Downs include items such as jersey barrier walls, new fencing around propane tanks, etc.
He stated that Dover Downs was approved for the grant and will make such purchases and the City
of Dover will administer the grant.
The Committee recommended approval of the FY10 Buffer Zone Protection Program Grant
(DEMA), as recommended by staff.
By consent agenda, Mr. Bonar moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mrs. Russell and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Mrs. Williams absent).
Public Comment Period
There was no one present wishing to speak during the public comment period.
By consent agenda, Mr. Bonar moved for acceptance of the Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee Report, seconded by Mrs. Russell and carried by a unanimous roll
call vote (Mrs. Williams absent).
MONTHLY REPORTS - JUNE 2011
By motion of Mr. Bonar, seconded by Mrs. Russell, the following monthly reports were
accepted by consent agenda:
Chief of Police Report
City Assessor’s Report
City Manager's Report
City Planner’s Report
Dover Fire Department Report
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF AUGUST 8, 2011 PAGE 7
APPOINTMENT RECOMMENDED BY MAYOR CAREY - PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
CODE BOARD OF APPEALS - HEATHER D. ENNIS (ANNUAL APPOINTMENT
DEFERRED DURING THE MEETING OF MAY 9, 2011)
Mayor Carey recommended the appointment of Ms. Heather D. Ennis to serve on the Property
Maintenance Code Board of Appeals, which is an annual appointment through May 2012 (deferred
during the Annual Council Meeting of May 9, 2011).
By consent agenda, Mr. Bonar moved for approval of the appointment of Ms. Ennis, as
recommended by Mayor Carey. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Russell and carried by a
unanimous roll call vote (Mrs. Williams absent).
FINAL READING - PROPOSED ORDINANCES
The First Reading of the following Proposed Ordinances was accomplished during the Council
Meeting of July 25, 2011.
Mr. Hutchison moved that the Final Reading of the Proposed Ordinances be acknowledged
by title only, seconded by Mr. Bonar and unanimously carried.
Ordinance #2011-17 - Chapter 102 - Taxation, Article III - Realty Transfer Tax,
Section 102-71 - Definitions and Article IV - Abatement of Real Estate Taxes, Section 102-13 -
Qualifications
Mr. Hare moved for adoption of the Proposed Ordinance, seconded by Mr. Anderson and, by
a unanimous roll call vote (Mrs. Williams absent), Council adopted Ordinance #2011-17, as
follows:
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN
COUNCIL MET:
That Chapter 102 - Taxation, Article III - Realty Transfer Tax, Section 102-71 - Definitions,
Paragraph (a)(3) - First time homebuyer, be amended to read as follows:
(3) First time homebuyer means a natural person who has at no time held an interest in
residential real estate, wherever located, and which has been occupied as their principal
residence, and who intends to occupy the property being conveyed as his principal residence,
within 90 days following recordation of the deed. The first time homebuyer must file an
affidavit certifying to his qualifications before the exemption can be granted. In order to
alleviate claims for rebate of the transfer tax paid, no rebate shall be made once the deed for
the transaction has been recorded. First time homebuyers submitting a false affidavit in any
respect, which would entitle them to the exemption, shall be subject to payment of the unpaid
transfer tax, plus interest at the rate of 1½ percent per month and, upon direction by the
council, referral to the attorney general of the state for criminal prosecution. This subsection
shall apply to all real estate settlements held on or after January 2, 2000. First time
homebuyers are exempt from the transfer tax as provided herein. The first time homebuyer
exemption shall apply to the seller of property that qualifies for the first time buyer
exemption but only for property situated in the area from Mary Street to Loockerman Street
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF AUGUST 8, 2011 PAGE 8
and Governors Avenue to West Street. Council shall have the right to deny this exemption
to any property owner where the sale and purchase appears to be done fraudulently to take
advantage of the realty transfer tax exemption ordinance.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED THAT:
Chapter 102 - Taxation, Article IV - Abatement of Real Estate Taxes, Section 102-113 -
Qualifications, Paragraph (d), be amended to read as follows:
(d) Any persons purchasing residential real property in which they will reside within the area
defined as Mary Street to Loockerman Street and Governors Avenue to West Street shall be
given tax relief from the payment of real estate taxes in the following manner: first year of
ownership, total tax abatement; second year of ownership, 75 percent tax abatement; third
year of ownership, 50 percent tax abatement; fourth year of ownership, 25 percent tax
abatement; fifth year of ownership, no tax abatement. Provided however that the homeowner
is required to occupy the home as their principal place of residence during the entire time that
the taxes are abated and if the property ceases to be their principal place of residence at any
time during the four-year period of abatement, then they shall lose their right of abatement
and shall be required to pay immediately all taxes abated up to the time that the home ceases
to be their principal residence. In order to obtain the tax abatement, the homeowner must
make application by affidavit submitted to the city clerk showing qualification for the
abatement and each year thereafter, submit a similar affidavit showing their continued right
to the abatement. If qualification for the abatement ceases within the four-year period of
abatement the homeowner is required to notify the city clerk of the lack of qualification for
the abatement and within 90 days from the date the qualification ceases, pay all taxes abated
in the past.
ADOPTED: AUGUST 8, 2011
Ordinance #2011-19 - Chapter 102 - Taxation, Article I - In General, Section 102-5 - Income
and Expense Reports and Appendix F - Fees and Fines
Mr. Hare moved for adoption of the Proposed Ordinance, seconded by Mr. Hutchison, and by
a unanimous roll call vote (Mrs. Williams absent), Council adopted Ordinance #2011-19, as
follows:
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN
COUNCIL MET:
That Chapter 102 - Taxation, Article I - In General, Section 102-5 - Income and expense reports, be
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 102-5. - Income and expense reports.
The assessor shall request that an annual report of income and expenses be completed and filed for
all commercial/industrial income-producing property within the city limits of Dover. The income
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF AUGUST 8, 2011 PAGE 9
and expense report forms shall be developed and provided by the assessor. This information will
become mandatory if the owner of the commercial/industrial income-producing property petitions
for appeal.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED THAT:
Appendix F - Fees and Fines, Chapter 102 - Taxation, Article I - In General, Sec. 102-5 - Failure to
provide the assessor with an income and expense report - $100.00 fee, be deleted in its entirety.
ADOPTED: AUGUST 8, 2011
COUNCIL MEMBERS ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mrs. Russell thanked everyone for their participation and support during “Dover Fun Day” on
July 30, 2011 and commended the Youth Advisory Committee for the successful event.
Mrs. Russell announced that on August 20, 2011, the New Street Civic Association - New Beginning
will sponsor a “Back to School Bash” on the corner of Cecil and North New Streets.
By unanimous consent, the meeting adjourned into executive session to discuss legal matters
at 8:00 P.M.
TRACI A. McDOWELL
CITY CLERK
All orders, ordinances, and resolutions adopted by City Council during their Regular Meeting of
August 8, 2011, are hereby approved.
CARLETON E. CAREY, SR.
MAYOR
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Exhibits Attached to Original Minutes and File Copy
Exhibit #1 - Presentation - Violation of Dangerous Building Ordinance - 70 Mifflin Road
Exhibit #2 - Ordinance #2011-14 Amending Appendix B, Article 10
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EXHIBIT #1
Regular Council Meeting of 08/08/2011
Violation of Dangerous
Building Ordinance
70 Mifflin Road
EXHIBIT #1
Public Services Department
Dover, Delaware
Regular Council Meeting of 08/08/2011
August 8, 2011
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70 Mifflin Road
Case History
Seriously damaged by fire in May 2011
Most of the interior is fully exposed
Pool in rear yard in poor repair
Outstanding Payments
– Taxes
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Dangerous Building Code –
Chapter 22 Article XI, Sec. 22-381
(4) Fire damage, etc.
(5) Unfit for habitation.
(9) General welfare.
(10) Code violations.
(12) Unoccupied buildings.
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Code Citation
Chapter 22, Article XI
Sec. 22-388. Emergency cases.
In cases where it reasonably appears that there is an
immediate danger to the life or safety of any person,
unless a dangerous building is immediately repaired,
vacated and closed, or demolished, the building
inspector shall report such facts to the council, which
may cause the immediate repair, vacation, or
demolition of such dangerous building. The costs of
such emergency repair, vacation or demolition of such
dangerous building shall be collected in the same
manner as provided in section 22-385(5).
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Recommended Council Action
Declare this building and all accessory buildings on the property
dangerous.
Order the property immediately repaired or demolished.
Order the Building Inspector to cause the repair or demolition of
the structure if not completed by the owner by August 18, 2011.
Order the City Manager with the assistance of the City Solicitor to
cause the cost of repairs or 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.
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EXHIBIT #2
Regular Council Meeting of 08/08/2011
CITY OF DOVER
ORDINANCE #2011-14
with PC AMENDMENT #1
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN
COUNCIL MET:
That Appendix B - Zoning, Article 10 – Planning Commission be amended by deleting it in its
entirety and replacing it with the following:
ARTICLE 10. PLANNING COMMISSION
Section 1. Approval of conditional uses.
On application and after public notice and hearing, the commission may authorize the issuance
by the city planner of permits for any of the conditional uses for which this ordinance requires, in
the district in which such use is proposed to be located. In approving any such use, the planning
commission shall take into consideration the public health, safety and welfare, the comfort and
convenience of the public in general and of the residents of the immediate neighborhood in
particular, and may prescribe appropriate conditions and safeguards as may be required in order
that the results of its action may, to the maximum extent possible, further the expressed intent of
this ordinance and the accomplishment of the following objectives in particular:
1.1 Accessibility for emergency response. That all proposed structures, equipment or
material shall be readily accessible for fire, ambulance, police, and other emergency
response;
1.2 Harmony of location, size and character. That the proposed use shall be of such
location, size and character that, in general, it will be in harmony with the appropriate and
orderly development of the zone in which it is proposed to be situated and will not be
detrimental to the orderly development of adjacent properties in accordance with the
zoning classification of such properties;
1.3 Residential zones. That, in addition to the above, in the case of any use located in, or
adjacent to, a residential zone:
1.31 The location and size of such use, the nature and intensity of operations involved
in or conducted in connection therewith, its site layout and its relation to access
streets shall be such that both pedestrian and vehicular traffic to and from the use and
the assembly of persons in connection therewith will not be hazardous or
inconvenient to, or incongruous with, the said residential district or conflict with the
normal traffic of the neighborhood; and
1.32 The location and height of buildings, the location, nature and height of walls and
fences, the nature and extent of landscaping, and other improvements on the site shall
be such that the use will not hinder or discourage the appropriate development and
use of adjacent land and buildings.
1.4 Conditional use permits.
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1.41 Conditional use approval. Any use for which a conditional use permit may be
granted shall be deemed to be a conforming use in the district in which such use is
located, provided that:
(A) The provision in this ordinance under which such permit was issued is still in
effect;
(B) Such permit was issued in conformity with the provisions of this ordinance;
and
(C) Such permit shall be deemed to affect only the lot or portion thereof for which
such permit shall have been granted.
1.42 Periodic renewal of conditional use permit. The commission may require that
conditional use permits be periodically renewed. Such renewal shall be granted
following public notice and hearing in accordance with subsection 1.53. The
commission may withhold approval of the renewal upon a determination by the city
planner to the effect that such conditions as may have been prescribed by the
commission in conjunction with the issuance of the original permit have not been, or
are being no longer, complied with.
1.43 Revocation of conditional use permit. If the city planner determines that the
conditions prescribed by the commission in conjunction with the issuance of the
conditional use permit have not been, or are no longer complied with, he shall initiate
the process for revocation of the permit according to the following procedure:
(A) The city planner shall notify the permit-holder in writing of the
noncompliance with the permit conditions and allow the permit-holder 30
days to comply with the permit conditions.
(B) If, after 30 days, the city planner determines that the permit-holder has not
come into compliance with permit conditions, he shall notify the permit-
holder that the planning commission will hold a public hearing on revocation
of the conditional use permit.
(C) The planning commission shall hold a public hearing for which notice shall be
completed by the planning office in accordance with the provisions of
subsection 1.53 of this article.
(D) Following the public hearing, the planning commission shall take action in the
following regard:
(1) Revoke the conditional use permit.
(2) Issue a probationary period after which the commission shall review
the permit in accordance with the provisions regarding periodic
renewal of conditional use permit.
(3) Determine that the conditional use may continue as initially
authorized.
(E) The planning commission shall document findings of fact that support the
action taken with regards to the conditional use permit.
1.5 Application procedure.
1.51 Preapplication Meeting. Prior to the submission of a conditional use application,
the applicant or his representative shall meet in person with the city planner or his
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designee with a sketch plan. The purpose of this meeting shall be to discuss proposed
uses or developments and to review the process and submission requirements.
1.52 Application. Application for a conditional use permit shall be submitted to the
city planner, on forms approved by the planning commission, at least 30 days prior to
the planning commission meeting at which approval of the permit is to be requested.
Each application for a conditional use permit shall be accompanied by a fee as
provided for in Appendix F--Fees and Fines.
1.53 Public hearing. Prior to the review and action on the conditional use permit
application, the commission shall hold a public hearing subject to the following
public notification procedures:
(A) The applicant shall advertise the public hearing in a newspaper of general
circulation at least 15 days prior thereto.
(B) The applicant shall notify by mail all property owners within 200 feet of the
extreme limits of the subject property as their names appear on the municipal
tax record at least 15 days prior thereto.
(C) The applicant shall post a notice outlining the date, time, place, and nature of
the hearing in a conspicuous location on the property at least 15 days prior to
the planning commission hearing. Such notice shall be designed in accordance
with standards set forth by the planning commission.
(D) The applicant shall provide the planning office with a copy of the notice,
verification of newspaper publication, a date-stamped photo of the property
posting, and post office mail receipts indicating the date of mailing for all
letters on or before the meeting date.
(E) Said notices shall state the date, time and place of the hearing, the site
location, a brief description of the conditional use and shall state that a copy
of the conditional use application and plan is filed with the planning office for
public review.
1.54 City planner report. For each application for a conditional use permit, the city
planner shall issue a report to the planning commission including comments from
other agencies and detailing how the application conforms to the requirements of the
zoning ordinance and other provisions of city and state codes. This report shall not be
deemed to represent a comprehensive list of all city and state code requirements.
(A) The city planner shall transmit copies of the report and summary of the
application to the planning commission at least seven days prior to the date of
the meeting at which approval of the permit is to be requested.
1.55 Planning commission action. The planning commission shall act to approve or
disapprove any such request for a conditional use permit within 45 days after the
meeting at which approval is requested or within such additional time as may be
consented to by the applicant. Planning commission disapproval shall include written
findings upon any element found contrary to the provisions or intent of the zoning
ordinance.
1.56 Notice of decision. The planning office shall send the applicant a letter notifying
the applicant of the planning commission’s decision on the conditional use permit
application. Such letter shall document any conditions and waivers approved as part
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of the application approval. Whenever the planning commission denies an
application for conditional use, such application for conditional use, or an application
on the same property which is substantially similar, shall not be accepted for
consideration by the planning commission sooner than one year from the date of
denial.
1.57 Amendments. Substantial amendments to conditional use permits shall be acted
upon in the same manner as the original request for a conditional use permit. The city
planner shall review proposed amendments to determine if they are substantial in
nature. Amendments that are not deemed substantial may be referred to the planning
commission for consideration at the discretion of the city planner.
1.58 Transfer of property. If the property is sold by the applicant or by any affiliated
member of a single corporate family of which the applicant or its parent company is a
member, after approval of the conditional use but before the proposed use or
construction of the proposed use is started, or if, within 24 months of the approval,
the proposed use or construction of the proposed use is not undertaken by or for the
applicant or any affiliated member of a single corporate family of which the applicant
or its parent company is a member, the conditional use approval shall be null and
void, unless an extension of time is granted by the planning commission.
1.59 Final plans and working drawings. Following approval by the planning
commission, the applicant shall develop final conditional use permit plans for
approval by the planning office. The planning office shall determine that all
necessary approvals have been issued by city departments, and outside regulatory
agencies, prior to issuing final plan approval. No building permit shall be issued until
such time that the planning office has issued final conditional use permit plan
approval.
1.6 Expiration of planning commission approval.
1.61 Conditional use approval shall expire on the last day of the 24th month after the
date of final or conditional approval of the planning commission, if construction of
the work authorized or use permitted has not started or unless an extension of time is
applied for by the applicant and granted by the planning commission. Approval shall
also expire if the construction of work authorized has stopped for a period of one
year, unless an extension of time is applied for and granted by the planning
commission.
1.62 Requests for extension of approval shall be made no later than 30 days prior to
the final approval expiration date. Upon receipt of such requests, the matter shall be
considered at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the planning commission.
1.63 In considering a request for an extension of approval, the planning commission
shall consider, but not be limited to, the following:
(A) Whether the project has been delayed for reasons beyond the control of the
applicant, excluding economic or financial reasons.
(B) Whether the applicant has made substantial progress toward obtaining final
approvals.
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(C) Whether there have been any significant changes in the surrounding
neighborhood.
(D) Whether there has been any related amendments to the zoning map or text, or
the comprehensive plan, or if any waivers or variances have been granted.
1.64 Requests for extensions shall be submitted in writing to the planning office.
1.65 Under no circumstances shall the planning commission grant extensions beyond
36 months from the date of first approval.
1.7 Submission requirements for conditional use permits requiring site development plan
approval by the planning commission. The following submission requirements shall
accompany applications for conditional use permits where site development plan
approval by the planning commission is required by subsection 2.1. The applicant shall
cause a site map to be prepared by a civil engineer, surveyor, land planner, or architect.
The applicant shall submit copies of the site map to the city planner, who shall transmit
copies to the planning commission at least seven days prior to the meeting at which
approval of the permit is to be requested. Elements to be included on the site map are
listed below:
1.71 Scale and dimensions. The map shall be at least 11 inches by 17 inches and at a
scale of ten, 20, 30 or 40 feet to the inch, except that if the property has a maximum
dimension over 900 feet, a scale of 50 feet to the inch may be used.
1.72 Legal data:
(A) Tax parcel identification number.
(B) Name and address of the owner of record.
(C) Name and address of the equitable owner, if any.
(D) Name and address of the person, firm or organization preparing the map.
(E) Date, north point and written and graphic scale.
(F) Sufficient description of information to define precisely the boundaries of the
property and that portion of the property for which a conditional use permit is
requested, and the approximate total acreage of that portion of the property for
which a conditional use permit is requested. All distances shall be given in
feet and tenths of a foot. All angles shall be given to the nearest ten seconds or
closer. The error of closure shall not exceed one in 10,000.
(G) The locations, names and existing widths of adjacent street rights-of-way and
curblines.
(H) The locations and owners of record of all adjoining lands.
(I) Location, width and purpose of all existing and proposed easements, setbacks,
reservations and areas dedicated to public use within or adjoining the
property.
(J) A complete outline of existing or proposed deed restrictions or covenants
applying to the property and recital of the deed references if they are of
record.
(K) Existing zoning, including two location maps, one at a scale of 1,200 feet to
the inch, and one at a scale of 400 feet to the inch, showing the distance along
all adjacent roads to the nearest intersection.
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1.73 Existing structures.
(A) Location of uses and outlines of structures, drawn to scale on or within 100
feet of the property.
(B) Paved areas, sidewalks and vehicular access between the site and public
streets.
(C) Other existing development, including fences and landscape screening.
1.74 Proposed use:
(A) A written description of the proposed use.
(B) A designation of that portion of the existing structures to be devoted to the
proposed use and for which a conditional use permit has been requested.
(C) A designation of that portion of the property to be devoted to the proposed
use, not requiring structures and for which a conditional use permit has been
requested.
(D) A designation of the parking area and indication of the number of off-street
parking spaces.
(E) Indication of on-site circulation pattern and access to the property from
adjacent roads.
1.75 Proposed development:
(A) Conditional use applications involving construction of new buildings and
structures shall include a site plan which reflects compliance with the
minimum requirements of subsection 2.5.
1.76 Natural features:
(A) Topography of the site.
(B) Location of different soil types, as indicated by the Soil Survey of Kent
County prepared by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The soils
information shall be supplemented by soil boring and percolation test data if
requested by the city.
(C) Location of flood hazard areas as identified on the FEMA flood insurance
maps.
(D) Location of significant natural features, including, bodies of water, wetlands
and forest areas.
1.77 Requested information: Full and complete information requested by the city
planner in accordance with the development information requirements set forth in
section 4.
1.78 Miscellaneous information: Other information deemed by the planning
commission to be necessary to determine conformity with the intent of this ordinance.
1.8 Submission requirements for conditional use permits where site development plan
approval by the planning commission is not required. The following submission
requirements shall accompany applications for conditional use permits where site
development plan approval by the planning commission is not required by subsection 2.1,
where the applicant is seeking conditional use approval to occupy an existing
structure. The applicant shall submit copies of the site map conforming to the
specifications listed below to the city planner, who shall transmit copies to the planning
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commission at least seven days prior to the meeting at which approval of the permit is to
be requested. Elements to be included on the site map are listed below:
1.81 Scale and Dimensions. The map shall be at least 8.5 inches by 11 inches and at a
scale of ten, 20, 30 or 40 feet to the inch, except that, if the property has a maximum
dimension over 900 feet, a scale of 50 feet to the inch may be used.
1.82 Existing Conditions. The existing building and conditions on the lot must be
depicted. It is permissible to utilize the most recent mortgage survey of the property
for this purpose. If conditions, such as buildings and building additions, paved areas,
landscaping and accessory structures, on the lot have changed since the survey was
completed, the applicant shall depict these changes on the plan to the best of his
ability. However, the nature and extent of such revisions must be approved by the city
planner at the required preapplication meeting.
1.83 Proposed use:
(A) A written description of the proposed use.
(B) A designation of that portion of the existing structures to be devoted to the
proposed use and for which a conditional use permit has been requested.
(C) A designation of that portion of the property to be devoted to the proposed
use, not requiring structures and for which a conditional use permit has been
requested.
(D) A designation of the parking area and indication of the number of off-street
parking spaces.
(E) Indication of on-site circulation pattern and access to the property from
adjacent roads.
1.84 Additional Information. The city planner and/or planning commission may
request more detailed information, including but not limited to architectural floor
plans, on a case-by-case basis at their discretion.
1.85 Legal data:
(A) Tax parcel identification number.
(B) Name and address of the owner of record.
(C) Name and address of the equitable owner, if any.
(D) Name and address of the person, firm, or organization preparing the map.
(E) Date, north point, and written and graphical scale.
(F) The location and names of adjacent streets.
(G) The location, zoning, and owners of record of all adjacent properties.
Section 2. Site development plan approval.
2.1 Required. Site development plan approval shall be required for the erection or
enlargement of all structures and the establishment of any use for which site development
plan approval is required by this ordinance. Site development plan shall be required
according to the following criteria:
2.11 Planning commission site plan review. Site development plans shall be subject to
review and approval by the planning commission if they meet the following
thresholds:
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(A) Site plans for new structures and building additions of 3,000 square feet or
greater in floor area; or
(B) Site plans with a total of 5,000 square feet or greater of new or added
impervious surface, including new structures or building additions; or
(C) Nonresidential site plans with site disturbance greater than 1,500 square feet
and adjacent to residential uses or residential zones.
2.12 Site development master plan. Site development master plans shall be subject to
review and approval by the planning commission in accordance with subsection 2.44.
2.13 Zoning review. For site development plans involving construction of a single
family detached, single family attached, or single family semi-detached dwelling; an
accessory structure; or a non-residential change of use for which no building addition
or increase in impervious cover is proposed, the city planner or his designee may
approve the site development plan in conjunction with building permit review.
2.14 Administrative site plan. All site development plans that do not meet the
thresholds for zoning review in accordance with subsection 2.13 or planning
commission site plan review in accordance with subsection 2.11 shall be reviewed as
administrative site development plans.
2.2 Objectives. In considering and acting upon site development plans, the public health,
safety and welfare, the comfort and convenience of the public in general and of the
residents of the immediate neighborhood in particular shall be taken into consideration
and appropriate conditions and safeguards may be prescribed as may be required that the
results of approval may, to the maximum extent possible, further the expressed intent of
this ordinance and the accomplishment of the following objectives in particular:
2.21 Maximum safety and convenience of vehicular, transit, bicycle, and pedestrian
traffic by ensuring that all proposed and impacted streets, driveways and walkways
are adequate, but not excessive in number, adequate in width, grade, alignment,
capacity, and visibility, and suitably located, particularly with respect to their
connections with public streets.
2.22 The provision of adequate access to all proposed structures, equipment, or
material on the site for fire, ambulance, police, and other emergency services.
2.23 The provision of adequate off-street parking to accommodate the vehicles of
persons connected with or visiting the use and to obviate the parking of such vehicles
in public streets.
2.24 A site layout (including the location, power, direction, and time of any outdoor
lighting of the site) which would have no adverse effect upon adjacent properties.
2.25 Landscaping of the site in a manner which is in character with that generally
prevailing in the neighborhood and which provides reasonable screening, at all
seasons of the year, of all playgrounds, parking areas, and service areas from the view
of adjacent residential properties and streets.
2.26 In applicable cases, a drainage system and layout which would afford the best
solution to any drainage problems.
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2.27 Ensure that large scale development projects involving extended construction
periods are planned and implemented in accordance with an approved site
development master plan.
2.28 Consideration shall be given to the physical orientation and architectural
characteristics of proposed buildings, the relationship of proposed buildings to
existing buildings and to other proposed buildings, and their contributions to the
overall image of the immediate vicinity by considering the building and architectural
design guidelines as set forth in article 5, section 19. Design characteristics of
proposed buildings and building additions shall not detract or devalue existing
buildings in the immediate vicinity.
(A) If the planning commission determines that the proposed physical orientation
and architectural characteristics of the proposed buildings do not meet the
intent and objectives of this section, then the planning commission shall refer
the proposal to the architectural review oversight subcommittee for review
and comment.
(B) The subcommittee shall meet and review the proposal with the applicant, and
return its comments to the planning commission by the next regularly
scheduled meeting.
(C) The architectural review oversight subcommittee shall be appointed by the
commission at its annual meeting, and membership shall consist of two
planning commission members, and two design professionals with experience
in construction, and the mayor or the mayor's designee. Two alternate design
professionals with experience in construction shall also be appointed.
2.3 Effect of site development plan approval. No building permit will be issued for any
structure covered by this section until an approved site development plan or approved
amendment of any such plan has been secured by the applicant. No certificate of
occupancy will be issued for any structure or use of land covered by this section unless
the structure is completed or the land is developed or used in accordance with an
approved site development plan or approved amendment of any such plan.
2.4 Application Procedure.
2.41 Preapplication Meeting. Prior to the submission of a site development plan, the
applicant or his representative shall meet in person with the city planner or his
designee with a sketch plan. The purpose of this meeting shall be to discuss proposed
uses or developments in order to determine, first, whether the site development plan
application shall be submitted to the city planner for consideration and review as an
administrative site plan or shall be referred to the planning commission.
If the application is to be referred to the planning commission, the applicant shall be
informed at the preapplication meeting which elements listed in subsection 2.5 below
will be required in determination of conformity with the provisions and intent of this
section, along with any other comments and suggestions intended to bring about
conformity with the provisions and intent of this section.
2.42 Administrative site plan review.
(A) Process for administrative site plan application. If, as a result of the
preapplication meeting as described in subsection 2.41, it is determined that
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the proposed uses or development is of a type that may be approved by the
city planner, the applicant shall submit the application for site development
plan approval on forms approved for that purpose, to the city planner with the
required documentation under the provisions of subsection 2.5, and a fee as
provided for in Appendix F: Fees and Fines. The city planner shall coordinate
the reviews of the various administrative departments of the City of Dover and
outside regulatory agencies and approve the application within thirty (30) days
of the date of submission or refer it to the planning commission at their next
scheduled meeting.
(B) Final plans and working drawings. Following initial review and comment by
the city planner, the applicant shall develop final construction plans for
approval by the planning office. The planning office shall determine that all
necessary approvals have been issued by city departments and outside
regulatory agencies prior to issuing final plan approval. No building permit
shall be issued until such time that the planning office has issued final site
plan approval.
(C) Expiration. Administrative site development plan approval shall expire on the
last day of the 24th month after the date of final approval by the planning
office if construction of the work authorized or use permitted has not started
or unless an extension of time is applied for by the applicant and granted by
the city planner. Approval shall also expire if the construction of work
authorized has stopped for a period of one year unless an extension of time is
applied for and granted by the city planner.
(D) Circumventing zoning requirements. Administrative site plans shall not be
used to circumvent the requirement of planning commission site plan review.
If the city planner determines that cumulative administrative site plans on a
property are being used to circumvent the requirements of the zoning
ordinance or other provisions of the Dover Code of Ordinances, he shall refer
the application to the planning commission, subject to the requirements of
subsection 2.43.
2.43 Planning commission site plan review.
(A) Site development plan. If, as a result of the preapplication meeting as
described in subsection 2.41, it is determined that the proposed uses or
development is of a type that would be reviewed by the planning commission
and approval or disapproval of the application given by that body, the
application for site development plan approval shall be submitted to the city
planner on forms approved by the planning commission, at least 30 days prior
to the planning commission meeting at which approval is to be requested. The
application for site development plan approval shall be accompanied by a fee
as provided for in Appendix F--Fees and Fines.
(B) Land subdivision. If a proposed use or development requires planning
commission review under the land subdivision regulations of the City of
Dover as set forth in appendix A, the application for conditional approval of
the preliminary layout, under article IV, section B of that ordinance appendix
A, and the application for site development plan approval under this ordinance
shall be submitted and reviewed concurrently. The application for site
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development plan approval shall be revised and all changed elements
resubmitted and reviewed concurrently with the application for plan approval
under article IV, section C of the land subdivision regulations set forth in
appendix A.
(C) Public hearing. Prior to the review and action on the site plan application, the
commission shall hold a public hearing subject to the following public
notification procedures:
(1) The applicant shall advertise the public hearing in a newspaper of
general circulation at least 15 days prior thereto.
(2) The applicant shall notify, by mail, all property owners within 200 feet
of the extreme limits of the site plan property as their names appear on
the municipal tax record at least 15 days prior thereto.
(3) The applicant shall post a notice outlining the date, time, place, and
nature of the hearing in a conspicuous location on the property. Such
notice shall be designed in accordance with standards set forth by the
planning commission.
(a) The applicant shall provide the planning office with a copy of
the notice, verification of newspaper publication, a date-
stamped photo of the property posting, and post office mail
receipts including the date of mailing for all letters on or before
the meeting date.
(4) Said notices shall state the date, time and place of the hearing, the site
location, a brief description of the site plan and shall state that a copy
of the site plan application and plan is filed with the planning office
for public review.
(D) City planner report. For each site plan application to the planning commission
the city planner shall issue a report to the planning commission including
comments from other agencies detailing how the application conforms to the
requirements of the zoning ordinance and other provision of city and state
codes. This report shall not be deemed to represent a comprehensive list of all
city and state code requirements. The city planner shall transmit copies of the
proposed site development plan and the city planner’s report to the planning
commission at least seven days prior to the date of the meeting at which
approval of the site development plan is to be requested.
(E) Planning commission action. The planning commission shall act to approve or
disapprove any application for site development plan received by it either as
an original review or as a referral from the city planner under the provisions of
subsection 2.42(A) of this article within 45 days or within such additional
time as may be consented to by the applicant. Planning commission
disapproval shall include written findings upon any site development plan
element found contrary to the provisions or intent of the zoning ordinance.
(F) Notice of decision. The planning office shall send the applicant a letter
notifying the applicant of the planning commission’s action regarding the site
plan application. Such letter shall document any conditions and waivers
approved or recommended as part of the application approval.
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(G) Final plans and working drawings. Following approval by the planning
commission, the applicant shall develop final site plans for approval by the
planning office. The planning office shall determine that all necessary
approvals have been issued by city departments and outside agencies
regulating street access and stormwater management, prior to issuing final
plan approval. No building permit shall be issued until such time that the
planning office has issued final site plan approval
(H) Amendments. Substantial amendments to an approved site development plan
shall be acted upon in the same manner as the original plan. The city planner
shall review proposed amendments to determine if they are substantial in
nature. Amendments that are not deemed substantial may be referred to the
planning commission for consideration at the discretion of the city planner.
(I) Expiration of planning commission approval.
(1) Site development plan approval shall expire on the last day of the 24th
month after the date of final or conditional approval of the planning
commission if construction of the work authorized or use permitted has
not started or unless an extension of time is applied for by the applicant
and granted by the planning commission. Approval shall also expire if the
construction of work authorized has stopped for a period of one year
unless an extension of time is applied for and granted by the planning
commission.
(2) Request for extension of approval shall be made no later than 30 days
prior to the final approval expiration date. Upon receipt of such request,
the matter shall be considered at the next regularly scheduled meeting of
the planning commission.
(3) In considering a request for an extension of approval, the planning
commission shall consider, but not be limited to, the following:
(a) Whether the project has been delayed for reasons beyond the
control of the applicant, excluding economic or financial reasons.
(b) Whether the applicant has made substantial progress toward
obtaining final approvals.
(c) Whether there have been any significant changes in the
surrounding neighborhood.
(d) Whether there has been any related amendments to the zoning map
or text, or the comprehensive plan, or if any waivers or variances
have been granted.
(4) Requests for extensions shall be submitted in writing to the planning
office.
(5) Under no circumstances shall the planning commission grant extensions
beyond 36 months from the date of first approval.
2.44 Site development master plans. Conceptual site development master plans shall
be reviewed by the planning commission in accordance with the provisions of
subsection 2.43. Conceptual site development master plans shall depict a site
development proposal that reflects general compliance with the provisions of the
zoning ordinance and shall also reflect the following information on the plan:
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(A) Conceptual Master Plan. Conceptual Master Plan shall include the proposed
general layout of building, streets, parking, open space, landscape concepts,
and stormwater management areas.
(1) Detailed site construction plans, details, and specifications are not required
as part of a site development master plan submission.
(2) The plan shall illustrate distinct phase boundaries for each proposed
construction phase and shall depict proposed construction and site
improvements planned for each phase. Bulk quantities and area totals for
each construction phase, and for the total site, shall be tabulated in a data
column on the plan.
(3) Each construction phase shall be enumerated in sequential order on the
site development master plan according to the order of construction
contemplated by the plan. Phases shall be implemented in accordance with
the approved site development master plan unless the city planner
approves an alternate phasing.
(4) Each construction phase represented on the master plan shall be planned
and designed to function independent of construction and site
improvements contemplated in future construction phases in all respects,
including but not limited to bulk area provisions of the zoning district in
which the site is located, off-street parking requirements, site entrances,
emergency access requirements, site utilities, and stormwater management
improvements except where the requirements and needs of a later phase
are met and remain met by a previous phase of completed construction.
(5) Any special agreements or conditions of approval relative to the overall
development that have been specified by regulatory agencies shall be
documented on the site development master plan.
(B) Phased site plan approval. Individual phased components of the Conceptual
Master Plan are to be reviewed and approved as an Administrative Site
Plan. Final site construction plans, including detailed site grading, paving,
utilities, stormwater management, and tree planting and preservation plans
shall be submitted for final approval by the city planner and/or authorized
designee, and to other agencies having jurisdiction, on a phase by phase basis
in accordance with the approved site development master plan, and all
regulations of the City of Dover governing the approval of site plans as set
forth in subsection 2.4 and 2.5.
(C) Amendments. Substantial amendments to an approved site development
master plans shall be acted upon in the same manner as the original plan. The
city planner shall review proposed amendments to determine if they are
substantial in nature. Amendments that are not deemed substantial may be
referred to the planning commission for consideration at the discretion of the
city planner.
(D) Expiration of planning commission approval. For projects which are reviewed
and approved by the planning commission as conceptual master plans,
approval of the conceptual master plan shall remain valid for a period not to
exceed five years from the date of planning commission approval, provided
that the authorized construction or use has commenced within two years of
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approval and is proceeding toward completion. In addition, the time between
the completion of one phase and the initiation of the next phase shall not
exceed a period of two years.
2.5 Site development plan elements submission requirements accompanying applications
for site development plan approval. The applicant shall cause a site development plan
map to be prepared by a civil engineer, surveyor, land planner, or architect. The applicant
shall submit copies of the site development plan to the city planner at the time of filing
the formal application for site development plan approval under the provisions of
subsection 2.42, subsection 2.43, or subsection 2.44. If the application is under the
provisions of subsection 2.43 or 2.44, the city planner shall transmit copies of the site
development plan map to the planning commission at least seven days prior to the
meeting at which approval of the application for site development plan approval is to be
requested. Site development plan elements shall include those listed below which are
appropriate to the proposed development or use as indicated in the preapplication meeting
required by the provisions of subsection 2.41.
2.51 Scale dimensions: Ten, 20, 30 or 40 feet to the inch, except that if the property
has a maximum dimension over 900 feet, a scale of 50 feet to the inch may be used.
2.52 Legal data:
(A) Tax parcel identification number.
(B) Name and address of the owner of record.
(C) Name and address of the equitable owner, if any.
(D) Name and address of the person, firm or organization preparing the map.
(E) Date, north point and written and graphic scale.
(F) Sufficient description of information to define precisely the boundaries of the
site, and total acreage of the site. All distances shall be given in feet and tenths
of a foot. All angles shall be given to the nearest ten seconds or closer. The
error of closure shall not exceed one in 10,000.
(G) The locations, names and existing widths of adjacent street rights-of-way and
curblines.
(H) The locations and owners of record of all adjoining lands.
(I) Locations, widths and purposes of all existing and proposed easements,
setbacks, reservations and areas dedicated to public use within or adjoining
the property.
(J) A complete outline of existing or proposed deed restrictions or covenants
applying to the property and recital of the deed references if they are of
record.
(K) Existing zoning on the site and adjacent properties.
(L) Two location maps, one at a scale of 1,200 feet to the inch, and one at a scale
of 400 feet to the inch, showing the distance along all adjacent roads to the
nearest intersections.
(M) Record of any agreements between the applicant and the city regarding the
proposed development.
2.53 Natural features:
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(A) Contour lines at vertical intervals of two feet for land with an average existing
slope of four percent or less, and at intervals of five feet for land with an
average existing slope greater than four percent.
(B) Location of different soil types, as indicated by the soil survey of Kent
County, prepared by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and
including locations of flood hazard areas as identified in the FEMA Flood
Insurance Maps. The soils information shall be supplemented by soil boring
and percolation test data, if requested by the city.
(C) Location of significant natural features, including bodies of water, wetlands,
and forest areas.
2.54 Proposed development:
(A) Existing buildings and other structures.
(B) Location and width of all proposed streets and rights-of-way. Speed bumps or
speed dips for the purpose of slowing down traffic on any street shall not be
permitted.
(C) Location of all proposed structures, except one-family detached dwellings,
and an indication of the total number of dwelling units.
(D) Location and dimensions of all lot lines.
(E) Building setback lines on all lots.
(F) Location of all uses not requiring structures, including parks, playgrounds and
other open space areas.
(G) Location and plans for any outdoor signs.
(H) Location, direction, power and time of use for any proposed outdoor lighting.
(I) The location, size and arrangement of proposed sidewalks, driveways, loading
areas, off-street parking areas and other paved areas.
(J) Indication of the total amount of impervious surfaces and the development
coverage.
(K) Any proposed changes in elevation of the site and elevations of all streets,
parking areas, and building foundations. The datum to which all elevations,
including existing contour elevations, refer shall be clearly indicated on the
plan.
(L) Plans for surface drainage of the site. Such plans shall include stormwater run-
off calculations and shall show the proposed method of accommodating the
anticipated run-off.
(M) Any proposed below-ground or above-ground utilities and any contemplated
public improvements, including road improvements, on or adjoining the
property. Plans for such utilities and improvements shall indicate whether the
developer, the city, or other agency will bear the financial responsibility for
the construction, and which improvements are intended to be dedicated to the
city.
(N) Proposed grading, screening and other landscaping, including types and
locations of proposed street trees.
(O) Architectural elevation drawings or other graphic representations illustrating
exterior building characteristics of proposed buildings and/or building
additions that would be visible from the public right-of-way. Elevation
drawings shall be drawn to scale and shall reflect major architectural elements
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such as exterior surface materials, windows, doors, columns, and wall-
mounted signage. Elevation plans are intended to provide a general depiction
of the physical appearance, massing and scale of the proposed construction.
2.55 Requested information. Full and complete information requested by the city
planner in accordance with the development information requirements set forth in
section 4.
2.56 Development in stages. If the site development plan indicates more than one
stage of the development, supplementary material shall be included to show
compliance with article 5, section 9, development in stages.
2.57 Miscellaneous information. Other information deemed by the planning
commission to be necessary to determine conformity with the intent of this ordinance.
Section 3. Historic district commission and architectural review.
3.1 Historic district commission established.
3.11 Creation and purpose. There shall be a historic district commission for the
purpose of assisting the planning commission and city planner in reviewing
applications for architectural review certifications as specified in subsection 3.2; and
for making recommendations for designation of historic district zones; and for
establishing guidelines for the preservation and conservation of historic district zones;
and for advising other officials and departments in the City of Dover in matters
concerning historic preservation; and for reviewing all proposed National Register
nominations in the City of Dover; and for acting as a liaison on behalf of the City of
Dover to individuals and organizations concerned with historic preservation; and for
carrying out programs of historic preservation education in the City of Dover.
3.12 Appointment. The commission shall consist of five members nominated by the
mayor and approved by the city council, who are residents of the City of Dover and
who have demonstrated special interest, experience, or knowledge in history,
architecture, or historic preservation. Two of the members, to the extent available,
shall be professional members representing the professions of architecture, history,
archaeology, planning, historic preservation or related disciplines. At least two
members shall be residents of the district, and at least one shall represent the business
within the district.
3.13 Term. The members of the commission shall serve for three-year staggered
terms. Vacancies shall be filled within 60 days in accordance with subsection 3.12 of
this section.
3.14 Organization. The commission shall meet at least four times per year in a place
that is advertised in advance and open to the public and shall keep minutes of its
meetings that are available to the public. All review decisions shall be made in public.
The commission shall establish bylaws for its general procedure, which shall include
a section addressing conflicts of interest. The commission shall produce an annual
report of its activity that is kept on file for public review with the city planning office.
3.2 Architectural review certification.
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3.21 Effect of architectural review certificate. No building permit or certificate of
occupancy may be issued for any structure in the historic district until an architectural
review certificate is issued as required under article 3, section 21, subsection 21.3 for
the historic district.
3.22 Architectural review certification by the city planner.
(A) An architectural review certificate for specific classes of building permits,
including fences, signs, siding, window and door replacement, roofing, the
addition or replacement of decorative features, minor demolition, residential
additions, and other construction of a minor nature, may be issued by the city
planner, after a review and determination that the proposed construction is in
general accordance with the standards set forth in subsection 3.25.
(B) The city planner may refer any permit application for demolition or
construction in the historic district for consultation with commission.
(C) All decisions of the city planner pursuant to this subsection shall be
documented on the building permit. When the city planner grants a
conditional approval under this section, all conditions of approval shall be set
forth in writing on the building permit. In the event of a denial, the reasons for
such denial shall be documented in a written notice of decision which shall
identify all elements of the application found to be contrary to the provisions
or intent of this section.
(D) An applicant may appeal the decision of the city planner to the historic district
commission and such appeal shall be considered as an architectural review
certification application to the historic district commission and shall meet all
of the requirements set forth in subsection 3.23.
3.23 Architectural review certification by the historic district commission
(A) The historic district commission shall issue architectural review certificates
for the construction or demolition of single-family and two-family homes, and
nonresidential structures or additions involving a gross floor area of 3,000
square feet or less, after review of the proposed construction and after a
determination that the construction is in general accordance with the standards
set forth in subsection 3.25 below.
(B) All applications to the historic district commission for architectural review
certification shall be subject to the procedures set forth in subsection 3.26.
(C) All decisions of the historic district commission pursuant to this subsection
shall be formalized in a written notice of decision. When the commission
grants a conditional approval under this subsection, all conditions of approval
shall be set forth in writing in the notice of decision. In the event of a denial,
the notice of decision shall state the reasons for denial and shall identify all
elements of the application found to be contrary to the provisions or intent of
this subsection.
(D) An applicant may appeal the decision of the historic district commission to the
planning commission, and such appeal shall be considered as an architectural
review certification application to the planning commission and shall meet all
of the requirements set forth in subsection 3.24 and subsection 3.26.
3.24 Architectural review certification by the planning commission.
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(A) The planning commission shall issue architectural review certificates referred
or appealed to it, upon review of the recommendations of the historic district
commission and upon a determination that the proposed construction is in
accordance with the standards set forth in subsection 3.25.
(B) All applications to the planning commission for architectural review
certification shall be subject to the procedures set forth in subsection 3.26.
(C) All decisions of the planning commission pursuant to this subsection shall be
formalized in a written notice of decision. When the planning commission
grants a conditional approval under this subsection, all conditions of approval
shall be set forth in writing in the notice of decision. In the event of a denial,
the notice of decision shall state the reasons for denial and shall identify all
elements of the application found to be contrary to the provisions or intent of
this subsection.
3.25 Architectural review standards.
(A) An architectural review certificate may be issued if it is found that the
architectural style, general design, height, bulk and setbacks, arrangement,
location and materials and structures affecting the exterior appearance are
generally in harmony with neighboring structures and complementary to the
traditional architectural standards of the historic district as set forth in the
historic district design guidelines and standards adopted by the planning
commission and as set forth in the United States Secretary of the Interior's
Standards for Rehabilitation.
(B) The city planner, historic district commission or planning commission shall
not consider normal maintenance and repair (see definitions, article 12),
interior arrangement, or building features not subject to public view.
3.26 Procedures for an architectural review by the historic district commission and/or
planning commission.
(A) Architectural preapplication meeting. Prior to action on any application for an
architectural review certificate, the applicant shall meet in person with the city
planner or his delegated representative. The purpose of such conference shall
be to discuss the proposed construction or other action requiring the certificate
in order to determine what information is useful in the determination of
conformity with the provisions and intent of the historic district regulation as
expressed in this ordinance.
(B) Application and fee. The application to the historic district commission for an
architectural review certificate and related information shall be submitted to
the city planner at least 30 days prior to the historic district commission
meeting at which review is requested and shall be accompanied by a fee as
provided for in Appendix F--Fees and Fines.
(C) Public hearing. Prior to the review and action on an architectural review
certification, the historic district commission shall hold a public hearing
subject to the following public notification procedures:
(1) The applicant shall advertise the public hearing newspaper of general
circulation at least 15 days prior thereto.
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(2) The applicant shall notify, by mail, all property owners within 200 feet of
the extreme limits of the subject property as their names appear on the
municipal tax record at least 15 days prior thereto.
(3) The applicant shall post a notice outlining the date, time, place, and nature
of the hearing in a conspicuous location on the property. Such notice shall
be designed in accordance with standards set forth by the planning
commission.
(4) The applicant shall provide the planning office with a copy of the notice,
verification of newspaper publication, a date-stamped photo of the
property posting, and post office mail receipts indicating date of mailing
for all letters on or before the meeting date.
(5) Said notices shall state the date, time, and place of the hearings before the
historic district commission, a brief description of the project and shall
state that a copy of the application and plan is on file with the planning
office for public review.
(6) If the planning commission is reviewing a project in accordance with other
sections of this article, then the public hearing notice on those applications
must also give notice of architectural review certification.
(D) Application information. The applicant shall provide such information and
documents listed below which will satisfactorily illustrate the proposed action
as indicated in the architectural preapplication meeting required in subsection
3.26(A):
(1) All plan elements required in subsection 2.5.
(2) Plans and specifications indicating existing and proposed development,
including structures, architectural elevation drawings, trees and any other
landscaping, existing and proposed, including the general design, location
and orientation of structures in relation to curb line, right-of-way line and
neighboring buildings, colors, and materials to be used on exterior
surfaces, detailed plans for any signs, photographs of the existing site and
neighboring buildings, and such other information as will enable the
historic district commission or planning commission to determine
conformity with the ordinance.
(E) City planner report. For each application to the planning commission the city
planner shall issue a report to the planning commission including comments
from other agencies detailing how the application conforms to the
requirements of the zoning ordinance and other provision of city and state
codes. This report shall not be deemed to represent a comprehensive list of all
city and state code requirements. The city planner shall transmit copies of the
proposed site development plan and the city planner’s report at least seven
days prior to the date of the meeting at which approval of the site development
plan is to be requested.
(F) Historic district commission action. The historic district commission shall act
to review and render a recommendation to approve any such application
within 45 days of transmittal to the commission or within such additional time
as may be consented to by the applicant. The recommendation of the historic
district commission shall be forwarded to the planning commission and acted
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upon by the planning commission in conjunction with action on the associated
site development plan. If a site development plan application is not filed in
accordance with the provisions of subsection 2.4 of this article within one year
of recommendation, the recommendation shall expire. The historic district
commission may grant a one-year extension of its recommendation upon
written request by the applicant. Such request shall be made in writing to the
planning office at least thirty days prior to the expiration of the historic district
commission’s recommendation.
(G) Substantial Amendments. Substantial amendments to an application or an
architectural review certificate shall be acted upon in the same manner as the
original plan.
(H) Expiration of architectural review certification issued by the historic district
commission.
(1) Architectural review certification approval shall expire on the last day of
the 12th month after the date of approval if construction of the work
authorized or use permitted has not started or unless an extension of time
is applied for by the applicant and granted by the historic district
commission. Approval shall also expire if the construction of work
authorized has stopped for a period of one year unless an extension of time
is applied for and granted by the historic district commission.
(2) Request for extension of approval shall be made no later than 30 days
prior to the final approval expiration date. Upon receipt of such request,
the matter shall be considered at the next regularly scheduled meeting of
the historic district commission.
(3) In considering a request for an extension of approval, the historic district
commission shall consider, but not be limited to, the following:
(a) Whether the project has been delayed for reasons beyond the control
of the applicant, excluding economic or financial reasons.
(b) Whether the applicant has made substantial progress toward obtaining
final approvals.
(c) Whether there have been any significant changes in the surrounding
neighborhood.
(d) Whether there has been any related amendments to the zoning map or
text, or the comprehensive plan, or if any waivers or variances have
been granted.
(4) Requests for extensions shall be submitted in writing to the planning
office.
(5) Under no circumstances shall the historic district commission grant
extensions beyond 24 months from the date of first approval.
3.3 Historic district amendments.
3.31 Historic district commission review required. Any motion or petition to amend,
supplement, or repeal a historic district by the city council in accordance with section
5, amendments, shall require a report by the historic district commission as set forth
in article 3, subsection 21.4.
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3.32 Review criteria for placing individual structures in a historic district. The historic
district commission may recommend that an individual structure or property be
placed in an existing contiguous historic district or be placed in a historic district
specifically created for the property or structure upon considering the following
criteria and factors:
(A) Significant value as part of the historical, cultural, artistic, social, ethnic or
other heritage of the nation, state or community;
(B) Association with an important person or event in national, state, or local
history.
(C) Representative of the distinguishing characteristics of an architectural type
inherently valuable for the study of a period, style, craftsmanship, method of
construction or use of indigenous material;
(D) Notable work of a master builder, designer, architect, or artist whose
individual genius has influenced an era;
(E) The desire of the owner to have the property designated;
(F) Increased potential of economic or community development.
3.33 Review criteria for amendments or creation of new historic districts. The historic
district commission may recommend amendments to an existing historic district,
recommend repeal of an existing historic district or recommend the creation of a new
historic district upon considering the following criteria:
(A) Any criteria listed in subsection 3.32.
(B) Distinctive character or homogeneity of architectural design or dates of
construction throughout the area.
(C) Identifiable by clear and distinctive boundaries.
(D) Repetition of distinguishing architectural or land use characteristics
throughout the area.
3.34 Public hearing required. For all proposed amendments to the boundary of the
historic district, the historic district commission shall hold a public hearing subject to
the following public notification procedures:
(A) The planning office shall advertise the public hearing in a newspaper of
general circulation at least 15 days prior thereto.
(B) The planning office shall notify, by mail, all directly affected property owners
and all property owners within 200 feet of the extreme limits of the properties
proposed for addition to or removal from the district as their names appear on
the municipal tax record at least 15 days prior thereto.
3.4 Demolition by neglect.
3.41 Responsibility of property owners. Property owners of properties within the
historic districts shall not allow their buildings to be demolished by neglect (see
definitions, article 12) by failing to provide ordinary maintenance or repair.
3.42 Responsibility of the historic district commission. The historic district
commission shall monitor the condition of historic properties and existing buildings
in the historic district to determine if they are being demolished by neglect by failing
to provide ordinary maintenance and repair (see definitions, article 12). In the event
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that the commission determines a demolition by neglect is occurring, it shall carry out
the following:
(A) Determine and set forth steps required to remedy the situations or defects.
(B) Direct the city planner to inform the property owners of its findings,
determination, and recommended remedies.
(C) In the event that the property owners fail to commence work within the
reasonable time allotted by the commission, the commission may direct the
building inspector to begin proceedings under chapter 22, buildings, and
building regulations, article XI, dangerous buildings, of the Code of
Ordinances for the City of Dover to bring about the repair or demolition of the
building.
3.43 Responsibility of the city planner. The city planner shall notify the historic
district commission of buildings within the historic district that have been referred to
him by the building inspector that meet the definition of dangerous buildings under
the provisions of chapter 22 buildings and building regulations, article XI dangerous
buildings, of the Code of Ordinances for the City of Dover. In such cases the
commission shall determine if the building is being demolished by neglect. Before
referring a property to the commission for consideration as demolition by neglect, the
city planner shall give written notice to the owner, occupant, mortgagee, lessee,
agent, and all other persons having an interest in said building, as shown by the
records of the recorder of deeds of the county, to appear before historic district
commission at the time, date and location specified.
Section 4. Development information requirements.
4.1 In order to more effectively evaluate the probable impact of proposed development
and thereby to carry out the purposes of this ordinance when making decisions and
recommendations regarding development proposals, the planning commission, historic
district commission, or city planner may adopt a standard set of information
requirements, which may be updated from time to time as necessary.
4.2 The information requirements shall be administered by the city planner and shall be a
part of submission requirements for all applications to the planning commission.
Section 5. Amendments.
This ordinance or any part thereof may be amended, supplemented or repealed, from time
to time, by the city council on its own motion or upon application, as provided in chapter
3 of title 22, Municipalities of the Delaware Code Annotated (22 Del. C. § 301 et seq.).
Every such proposed amendment shall be referred by the city council to the planning
commission for a report before the public hearing. The city council shall not take action
on any such amendment without a report from the planning commission unless the
planning commission fails to render such a report within 75 days after its regularly
scheduled meeting following such referral.
5.1 Types of amendments to the ordinance. The following are the types of amendments
that may be made to the ordinance:
5.11 Zoning text amendments. Amendments to ordinance text may be made upon
initiation of the city planner or under sponsorship of three members of city council.
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5.12 Map amendment by application. A property owner may make application to the
city for amendment of the zoning map as it relates to his property. Amendments to the
zoning map may also be initiated by sponsorship of three members of city council and
shall be considered under the procedures of subsection 5.3 as it relates to applications
for map amendments.
5.13 Comprehensive zoning map amendment. Amendment to the zoning map as a
result of a new, revised, or amended comprehensive plan, or other formal plan or
study shall be considered as a comprehensive zoning map amendment and shall be
initiated by the planning office.
5.2 Procedure for zoning text amendments in accordance with subsection 5.11.
5.21 Public hearing and notice. An amendment to the ordinance text shall be subject
to public hearing before the planning commission and city council prior to adoption.
Such hearing shall be advertised in a newspaper of general circulation at least fifteen
(15) days prior to the planning commission hearing. Such notices shall state the date,
time and place of the planning commission and city council hearings and a brief
description of the proposed zoning text amendment, and specify that documents are
available in the planning office for review.
5.22 City planner report. For each proposed zoning text amendment, the city planner
shall issue a report to the planning commission and city council, including comments
from other reviewing agencies, that evaluates the following factors:
A) Whether such change is consistent with the aims and principles embodied in
the ordinance as to the particular zones concerned; and
B) Whether such proposed amendment is consistent with the aims of the
comprehensive plan of the city.
5.23 Report of the planning commission. Regarding each proposed amendment to the
ordinance text, the planning commission shall provide a report to the city council
stating a recommended action with regards to the proposed amendment, along with
the commission’s evaluation of the following factors:
A) Whether such change is consistent with the aims and principles embodied in
the ordinance as to the particular zones concerned; and
B) Whether such proposed amendment is consistent with the aims of the
comprehensive plan of the city.
5.3 Application procedure for zoning map amendments in accordance with subsection
5.12.
5.31 Preapplication Meeting. Prior to the submission of a zoning map amendment
application, the applicant or his representative shall meet in person with the city
planner or his designee to discuss the rezoning request. The purpose of this meeting
shall be to discuss proposed uses or developments and to review the process and
submission requirements.
5.32 Application. Application for a zoning map amendment shall be submitted to the
city planner, on forms approved by the planning commission, along with a fee as
provided for in Appendix F--Fees and Fines, and copies of a site map as described
below.
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(A) Submission requirements accompanying applications for amendments to the
zoning map. The applicant shall cause a site map to be prepared by a civil
engineer, surveyor, land planner, or architect. The applicant shall submit
copies of the site map to the city planner. The elements to be included on the
site map are listed below:
(1) Scale and dimensions. The map shall be at least 8.5 by 11 inches and at a
scale of ten, 20, 30 or 40 feet to the inch, except that if the property has a
maximum dimension over 900 feet, a scale of 50 feet to the inch may be
used.
(2) Legal data.
(a) Tax parcel identification number.
(b) Name and address of the owner of record.
(c) Name and address of the equitable owner, if any.
(d) Name and address of the person, firm or organization preparing the
map.
(e) Date, north point and written and graphic scale.
(f) Sufficient description of information to precisely define the boundaries
of the property and that portion of the property for which a rezoning is
requested; and total acreage for which a rezoning is requested. All
distances shall be in feet and hundredths of a foot. All angles shall be
given to the nearest second or closer. The error of closure shall not
exceed one in 10,000.
(g) The locations, names and existing widths of adjacent street rights-of-
way and curblines.
(h) Location, width and purpose of all existing and proposed easements,
reservations and areas dedicated to public use within or adjoining the
property.
(i) Existing and proposed zoning.
(j) Any existing development on the property, including buildings, fences
and landscape screening.
(k) Full and complete information requested by the city planner in
accordance with the development information requirements set forth in
section 4.
5.33 Setting of hearings and referral to planning commission. For any application to
amend the zoning map, city council shall refer the proposed amendment to the
planning commission and set dates for the public hearings to be held before the
planning commission and city council.
5.34 Advertisement of public hearing. Following referral of a zoning map amendment
application to planning commission by city council, the applicant shall advertise the
public hearing as follows:
(A) The applicant shall notify by mail all property owners within a distance of 200
feet of the extreme limits of the subject property of the public hearing dates,
times and locations.
(B) The applicant shall advertise the public hearings in a newspaper of general
circulation at least fifteen (15) days prior to the planning commission hearing.
Such notices shall state the date, time and place of the planning commission
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and city council hearings and a brief description of the proposed zoning map
amendment, and specify that documents are available in the planning office
for review.
(C) The applicant shall also post a notice outlining the date, time, place, and
nature of the hearings in a conspicuous location on the property. Such notice
shall be designed in accordance with standards set forth by the planning
commission and city council.
(D) The applicant shall provide the planning office with a copy of the notice,
verification of newspaper publication, a date-stamped photo of the property
posting, and post office mail receipts indicating the date of mailing for all
letters on or before the planning commission meeting date.
5.35 City planner report. For each application for a zoning map amendment, the city
planner shall transmit a report to the planning commission and city council, including
comments from other reviewing agencies that evaluate the following factors:
(A) Whether the uses permitted by the proposed change would be compatible with
the existing uses and zones in the area concerned;
(B) Whether adequate public services and infrastructure exist or can be created or
expanded to serve the needs of any additional demand as a result of such
change; and
(C) Whether the proposed change is in accordance with the city’s current
comprehensive plan.
5.36 Report of the planning commission. Regarding each application for a zoning
map amendment, the planning commission shall provide a report to the city council
stating a recommended action with regards to the proposed amendment, along with
the commission’s evaluation of the following factors:
(A) Whether the uses permitted by the proposed change would be compatible with
the existing uses and zones in the area concerned;
(B) Whether adequate public services and infrastructure exist or can be created or
expanded to serve the needs of any additional demand as a result of such
change; and
(C) Whether the proposed change is in accordance with the city’s current
comprehensive plan.
5.37 Amendment of zoning map. Following action by city council with regards to an
application to amend the zoning map, the planning office shall update the zoning map
to reflect the action of city council.
5.38 Notice of decision. The city clerk shall send the applicant a letter notifying the
applicant of the city council’s action regarding the application for a zoning map
amendment.
5.4 Procedure for comprehensive zoning map amendment in accordance with subsection
5.13.
5.41 Public hearing and notice. A comprehensive zoning map amendment shall be
subject to public hearing before the planning commission and city council prior to
adoption. The planning office shall advertise the public hearings as follows:
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(A) The planning office shall advertise the public hearing in two newspapers of
general circulation at least fifteen (15) days prior to the planning commission
hearing.
(B) The planning office shall notify all affected property owners by mail at least
15 days prior to the planning commission hearing, informing them of the
proposed zoning map amendment as it relates to their property.
(C) Such notices shall state the date, time and place of the planning commission
and city council hearings and a brief description of the proposed zoning map
amendment, and specify that documents are available in the planning office
for review.
5.42 City planner report. For any comprehensive zoning map amendment, the city
planner shall issue a report to the planning commission and city council, including
comments from other reviewing agencies, that identifies:
A) The reasons for the comprehensive zoning map amendment;
B) All properties where a change in zone is proposed; and
C) How the proposed changes to the zoning map support the city’s current
comprehensive plan.
5.43 Report of the planning commission. Regarding each application for a
comprehensive zoning map amendment, the planning commission shall provide a
report to the city council stating a recommended action with regards to the proposed
amendment, along with the commission’s evaluation of the following factors:
(A) Whether the uses permitted by the proposed change would be compatible with
the existing uses and zones in the area concerned;
(B) Whether adequate public services and infrastructure exist or can be created or
expanded to serve the needs of any additional demand as a result of such
change; and
(C) Whether the proposed change is in accordance with the city’s current
comprehensive plan.
5.44 Adoption of comprehensive zoning map amendment. Upon adoption of the
comprehensive zoning map amendment by city council, the zoning of properties shall
be as reflected in the adopted map.
5.45 Notice of decision. The city shall notify all affected property owners in writing
with regards to any amendments to the zoning map that affect their properties.
5.5 Amendment protests. In the case of a protest against any amendment, such
amendment shall not become effective, except in accordance with the provisions of
section 305 of chapter 3 of title 22, Municipalities, of the Delaware Code Annotated (22
Del. C. § 305).
5.6 Zoning map amendment approvals. In all cases where the city council shall approve
an amendment to the zoning map, the said council shall find that, for reasons fully set
forth in the said findings, such amendment is in conformity with the comprehensive plan
for the city.
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5.61 Reconsideration, one-year limitation.
(A) Whenever an amendment has been denied by the city council, such
amendment, or one substantially similar, shall not be reconsidered sooner than
one year from the date of the prior denial, except as provided in subsection
(B) hereof.
(B) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (A) hereof, the planning
commission may request the council to reconsider an application within the
one-year period from the denial of the same if the land use in the area has
changed to such a degree that failure to do so would prevent proper planning
and development of the area in question.
5.7 Closed zones. Where the city finds that new development in a certain zone would be
inconsistent with the purposes of this ordinance, but that elimination of or substantial
changes to the zone would create a hardship for many owners of existing buildings and
land in that zone, the city may declare the zone closed. The city council shall not accept
or approve amendments to the zoning map which would place land in a closed zone.
Closed zones include:
(A) R-7;
(B) RG-4;
(C) RG-O, except in the downtown redevelopment target area as described in
appendix C of the City of Dover Code of Ordinances.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
That Appendix F – Fees and Fines be amended to read as follows:
Appendix B—Zoning—Article 10—Planning Commission
Sec. 1 Approval of conditional uses
Subsec. Application procedure; Conditional use permit; $325.00,
1.52 each application ..... plus $15.00 per acre of the
area or multiple thereof
involved in the application
Sec. 2 Site development plan approval
Subsec. Fees ..... Application for
2.42 administrative site plans—
$125.00
Subsec. Fees…. Application for site
2.43 development plan
approval—$325.00
Sec. 3 Historic district commission and architectural review
Subsec. Procedures for an architectural review by the historic district commission or
3.26 planning commission
Subsec. Application and fee for an architectural $250.00
(b) review certificate .....
Sec. 5 Amendments
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Subsec. Fees
5.32
Each application for a rezoning Minimum fee of $325.00, in
amendment ..... addition to required district
supplemental fee
Residential and single-family (R-7, R- $10.00 per acre
8, R-10, R-15, and R-20); supplemental
fee .....
Multifamily (RG-0, RG-1, RG-2, RG- $30.00 per acre
3, RG-4, RG-5, RM-1, and RM-2),
cluster and MHP; supplemental fee .....
Commercial and institutional (C-1, C- $50.00 per acre
1A, C-2, C-2A, C-3, CPO, RC and IO);
supplemental fee .....
Shopping center development (SC-1, $60.00 per acre
SC-2 and SC-3); supplemental fee .....
Manufacturing and industrial $60.00 per acre
development (M and IPM);
supplemental fee .....
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
That the amendments shall be affective upon adoption of this ordinance and that any unexpired
conditional use permit, site development plan, or architectural review certificate approval shall
be eligible for extension of approval by the approving body for a period of time not to exceed 36
months from the last day of the month during which initial approval was granted by that body.
SYNOPSIS
The ordinance amends the procedures for
conditional use permits, site development plans,
architectural review certificates and amendments to
the zoning ordinance. Included in the proposed
amendments are measures to clarify and streamline
certain review processes and expand public
notification requirements.
ADOPTED: AUGUST 8, 2011