Downtown Dover Partnership Board Meeting Packet

PARTNERSHIP WSDOVER BOARD OF DIRECTORS Wednesday, February 28, 2024 7:30 a.m. City of Dover Conference Room 1. Welcome 2. Agenda 3. Minutes (January) 4. Executive Committee/Staff Updates i. | Main Street Self-Assessment (State and National annual accreditation) ii. Annual Report (calendar year 2023) iii. The Hive on Loockerman, 28 W. Loockerman St., EDGE grant winner 5. Property Updates i. N/A 6. Downtown Dover Master Plan Priorities i. Governor Carney Feb. 1 funding announcement ii. 120 S. Governor’s mixed use and multi-modal transportation hub iii. | Pace Your Life update iv. Critical Improvements i. Stone Rail Market, 25 W. Loockerman St. (Theresa Owens) Recommend: $37,500 Vv. Dover Kent MPO FY 25 Transportation Planning Request vi. Status of ITB (Invitation to Bid) for demolition 680-684 Forest St. 7. Legislative Updates 8. Other Business 9. Board member updates 10. Public Comment 11. Adjourn Next DDP board meeting: Wednesday, March 27, 7:30 a.m. City of Dover Conference Room Agenda items as listed may not be considered in sequence. Pursuant to 29 DEL. C. 10004(e)(2), this agenda is subject to change to include the addition or deletion of items, including executive sessions, which arise at the time of the meeting. Downtown Dover Partnership Board Meeting Agenda — February 28, 2024

k DOWNTOWN » SDOVER see pala “Wl PARTNERSHIP City of Dover Conference Room BOARD MEETING MINUTES ATTENDANCE: Mayor Robin Christiansen, Councilman Fred Neil, Sarah Keifer, Todd Stonesifer, Councilwoman Tricia Arndt, Dina Vendetti, Stacy Downing, Pete Bradley, John Van Gorp, Jonathan Street, Dawn Melson-Williams, Will Grimes, Kim Adams, Linda Parkowski Gable Music Ventures (Nathalie Antonov, Gayle Dillman, Joe Trainer) STAFF: Jordan Resh, Diane Laird, Tina Bradbury, Ken Anderson CALL TO ORDER Stonesifer opened the meeting at 7:30 a.m. AGENDA Mayor Christiansen motioned to approve the agenda. Councilman Neil seconded the motion. Unanimous approval. MINUTES Mayor Christiansen motioned to approve the previous meeting minutes. Councilman Neil seconded the motion. Unanimous approval. LADYBUG FESTIVAL PRESENTATION (Gable Music Ventures LLC) Stonesifer introduced Gable Music Ventures to present. Dillman introduced herself and the Gable Music Ventures team. The business started in 2011 and first planned the Ladybug Music Festival in 2012. Trainer introduced himself as the booking manager for Gable Music Ventures. He shared that the Ladybug Music Festival is the “mother of all block parties,” aiming to celebrate music of women and is traditionally free to attend. He added that when Firefly Music Festival premiered in 2012, many people noted a lack of local artists, leading Gable Music Ventures to create a festival focusing on local and independent musical artists. He added that most festivals are also dominated by men, leading Ladybug to focus solely on female voices. He noted that the Ladybug is also the Delaware state bug. Trainer shared that the first Ladybug Music Festival took place in a couple of blocks in Wilmington, DE, hosting a variety of local, regional, and national acts. He added that each Ladybug includes 30-40 artists on several stages, culminating in an energetic headliner. In total, Ladybug has hosted 364 artists since it first began. Trainer added that the festival prides itself on showcasing music of all genres and both large bands and solo singers, allowing a large variety of artists to receive the opportunity to perform. Trainer shared that the Ladybug Festival was delivered to Milford starting in 2018, noting that it took on characteristics unique to the town with the high professional quality expected of the festivals. He added that people of all ages attended the community event and they had the opportunity to connect with friends and support local businesses. Trainer emphasized the economic boost for small businesses in the area during the day of the event and in the months following, as customers return and increase the Board Meeting 1/24/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 1

k DOWNTOWN y. SDOVER ee ald “WY PARTNERSHIP City of Dover Conference Room businesses’ online engagement. He added that the event raises the profile of the hosting town, creating constant advertising and media content, with significant television, radio, and streaming advertising in the days leading up to it. Trainer added that the event has been recognized for its quality both locally and statewide, noting that it resonates strongly with music lovers, artists, and provides an economic boost. Dillman added that the festival invites people from outside the community to attend, noting that in Wilmington the festival has drawn attendees from as far as New York, with artists also bringing their fans. Dillman described the nationally recognized festival as a magnet to bring people into a community and that it can benefit revitalization efforts, as people are encouraged to visit and see what is happening, even if they have not visited in many years. Van Gorp asked if the artists follow different festivals and how they determine what artists to bring. The trainer responded that each festival has open submissions nationwide and then the team curates the line up. He added that some artists are actively recruited, while others are discovered during the open submissions. Van Gorp asked how the timing of the multiple Ladybug Festivals are distributed. Dillman responded that two Festivals occur in June, but otherwise they can work with any schedule. She suggested a date that also does not complete with the Phish Festival in Dover in August and recommended late summer/ear! fall. Dillman added that the festival takes approximately 6 months to plan. Stonesifer asked how the event can avoid competing with Milford’s and Smyrna at Night. Dillman responded that they do not plan Smyrna at Night and that the contract for the festival in Milford has ended. Stonesifer shared that Destination Downtown Dover hosts OktDoverFest the first weekend in October, noting that the event benefits the downtown. He asked what Ladybug Festival costs. Dillman responded that the cost for 30 artists is approximately $65,000, which includes the cost of production, artists, marketing, staffing, social media, graphics, and vetting the artists/contracting. She added that the host (not the team) manages vendors and alcohol, noting that Gable Music Ventures does not handle alcohol permitting and that in this model, the towns can collect funding from vendor fees. Stonesifer summarized that Gable Music Ventures covers all entertainment cost, while the Partnership would cover permitting and vendors. Laird asked if the artists are paid and how the timing of the event is determined. Dillman responded that all artists and staff are paid for their work and that the event runs for about 5 hours, not including set up and breakdown. She added that in Wilmington, the event ran from 5-10 p.m. Trainer added that the timing of the individual event can be adjusted and that the event planning starts Board Meeting 1/24/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 2

J k. DOWN TOWN Board Meeting y POOVER 1/24/24 WY PARTNERSHIP City of Dover Conference Room at about 9 a.m. Dillman emphasized that they are a small business, and her team can tailor the details to what is best for the community. Bradbury asked if the company carried insurance. Dillman responded yes, adding that they have a $2M liability and $3M additional coverage. She added that the event does not have cancellation coverage, but a rain date will be planned for and they will offer assistance if additional rescheduling is needed. Dillman noted that many of the festival’s expenses are paid day of, so if the event doesn’t occur the fees are not owed, and they will work around any challenges as to please their customers. Trainer added that several expenses are refundable as well. Dillman added that they cover all licensing and that any artists participating are covered under their worker’s compensation. Councilman Neil expressed support of a street festival, noting that festivals at the Woodlands (venue) attracts tourism, but the street festival promotes engagement to downtown. Grimes asked if security is included in the cost. Dillman responded that typically the cost does not cover additional security, noting that the event tends to be tame with 4-5 local police officers providing security, as paid for by the city. She emphasized that the event is family-friendly with no issues requiring security to date. Trainers added that in Wilmington, Downtown Visions supplies a few people to keep an eye on the event as well. Dillman added that if private security is hired, coordinate with local police to ensure cooperation. Anderson asked why they would like to come to Dover and what is their forecast for the event as compared to other locations they’ve done. Dillman responded that Dover is primed for a new festival, noting that Dover is experiencing a resurgence of business with a lot of changes happening, has the infrastructure needed, and has a population surrounding the area that is excited to experience downtown. She added that beer festivals are positive but do not attract families, whereas a free music festival is a magnet for all and encourages attendees to explore local business. She added that artists will perform inside small businesses during the festival, noting that they have a history of creative use of space, making people want to return too. Trainer added that a festival in the state’s capital would be ideal, anticipating 5-7K people attending. Dillman added that because of their large activity in social media, even those who do not attend will hear about it and it will attract people from all over. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE/STAFF UPDATES Bradbury presented the budget. She noted that the rent for the EZ Pass property came in, but that the revenue is not monthly. She also noted that maintenance for 120 S. Governors and for plumbing at 136 W. Loockerman (as required in the lease agreement) was expensed. She added that the disbursements listed reflect funding for improvements to properties and that loan repayments to PNC resumed. Board Meeting 1/24/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 3

Z bk Board Meeting )» eOOVER 124/24 AYE PARTNERSHIP City of Dover Conference Room Street motioned to enter Executive Session. Councilman Neil seconded the motion. Stonesifer invited Vendetti to stay during the Executive Session due to her strong relationship to the board. Unanimous Approval. EXECUTIVE SESSION ENDED Street shared that based on recommendation of the Site Readiness Working Group and the concurrence of Executive Committee to acquire two properties in downtown Dover — both of which are required for priority redevelopment of the multi-modal transportation hub and associated with mixed-use redevelopment of 120 S. Governor’s Ave. — motioned to move forward with the acquisition of these two properties. Councilman Neil seconded the motion. Melson-Williams abstained from voting. Unanimous approval by other members. PROPERTY UPDATES Bradbury shared that 136 S. Governors is now open on weekends and was connected to the Central DE Chamber to plan a grand opening and pop-up events. She added that HVAC needs to be installed upstairs now that the tenant has moved in. Councilwoman Arndt asked if there is an apartment upstairs. Bradbury responded that the building previously had an apartment, but that it was not approved because it did not have an additional egress, so it is now used as storage. Bradbury shared that the daycare and the auto parts both gave notice on their own accord that they wished to end their lease. Street asked why only a 30-day notice was provided. Bradbury responded that the lease was written long ago. She added that site readiness work is now underway for the property. Grimes asked if the developers plan to invite the current daycare to lease in the new development. Bradbury responded that the daycare is closing so another would need to be recruited. Stonesifer added that the goal would be to have a sustainable daycare move in. Laird added that the tenants are receiving no pressure to move quickly out of the building. DOWNTOWN DOVER MASTER PLAN PRIORITIES Anderson shared that projects are moving ahead quickly. He added that the MOU with Mosaic became a binding agreement and that they will now identify the financial stack (who will do what, who will pay) and legal terms associated with a joint redevelopment agreement. He anticipates a draft agreement before Feb. 15. He added that a multi-page document needs to be reviewed by council and about two additional sites. Anderson added that he is receiving quotes for the demolition of the former Interfaith property. He added that they are being strategic about what to look for and will design a schedule based on property being available for the next step. Street asked if consideration was being given to the expense of the demolition, noting that they would be required to demolition the services at mains, which would be a greater expense than tearing the building down itself, and suggested holding off on abandoning the utilities. Board Meeting 1/24/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 4

k, DOWNTOWN ) SDOVER yyy Wy PARTNERSHIP City of Dover Conference Room Anderson responded that he considered the suggestion and vetted it by Sharon, and that quotes will help define what the actual cost will be. Parkowski asked if the binding agreement can be used as a template in the future. Anderson responded yes, and that it is the reason multiple parties are involved in the process, noting that a lot of development should occur over the next 6 years, including RFQs, demolition, and agreements. He added that different developers may be associated with future projects, so he intends the document to be reduplicated as needed. CRITICAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM Laird shared that $675K is available for the Critical Improvements Program (CIP) and that a second round of applications was launched. She added that the requested amount to date is already higher than the amount available and that funding is focused on life safety, ADA, and commercial kitchens, but other projects will be considered as well. She noted that funding for apartments may be permitted if the first- floor commercial space is activated. Laird added that pre-applications will be vetted and those approved will be invited to apply. Bradbury shared that DSHA distributed over $311K to Rail Haus and they received $300K from the first round of CIP. Laird noted that funds are not distributed for CIP under a tenant is in place and the business received approval from DDD. DOVER KENT MPO FY25 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING REQUEST Laird shared that $145K planning effort for Downtown Dover Pathways is underway, and that two additional requests were submitted to support recommendations from the master plan, specifically infrastructure improvements required for development. She added that the plan is now underway in terms of planning by the City, and requests would help the City implement the study, such as circuit buses, and also help find opportunities to bring outdoor dining, such as sidewalks, narrowing the road, and other traffic calming methods. She added that they should find out in the next month or two if the MPO accepted the projects. LEGISLATIVE UPDATES Stonesifer invited everyone to watch the Governor’s budget announcement tomorrow. OTHER BUSINESS BOARD MEMBER UPDATES Melson-Williams shared that the package of C2 amendments went to first reading on Monday evening with City Council. She noted that the reading had controversy, but the package was forwarded to start the public hearing process with the Planning Commission and City Council. She asked for comments from Mosaic to be provided. She added that the Planning Commission will review the package on Feb. 20, and asked for comments either in person or submitted, with the final action and public hearing scheduled for March 11 at 6:30 p.m. Anderson asked what amendments were considered controversial. Melson- Board Meeting 1/24/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 5

df k DOWNTOWN Board Meeting y SDOVER sua “Wy PARTNERSHIP City of Dover Conference Room Williams responded that the proposed setback recommendations were controversial. Councilman Neil added that the Council is seeking an engineer’s report that confirms the setbacks are safe to offset concerns from the meeting. Street offered to share detailed information addressing the setback concerns. Melson-Williams added that the rezoning of the former Post Office site went to public hearing with Planning Commission, with the recommendation to approve the site from IO (Institutional Office) to C2 (Central Commercial). She added that the recommendation is going for final reading in the first meeting in February. Vendetti shared that on Jan 31, the Chamber is having their showcase event. She suggested inviting those who are not yet a member of the chamber so they can learn about the benefits of joining. She added that the event will take place at the Delaware Agriculture Museum. Downing shared that the Dover Kent MPO is setting up on Delaware State University campus today to engage students about the Pathways Study and discuss different modes of transportation. PUBLIC COMMENT N/A ADJOURNMENT Street motioned to adjourn. Councilman Neil seconded the motion. Unanimous approval to adjourn the meeting. Next Meeting Wed. February 28 at 7:30 a.m. City of Dover Conference Room Board Meeting 1/24/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 6

ca PARTNERSHIP Annual Report In January 2023, the Downtown Dover Partnership received the final master plan, Capital City 2030: Transforming Downtown Dover! An ambitious series of implementation outcomes followed throughout the year: Implementation projects were already underway with the DDP’s Critical Improvements Program in which $1.2M was allocated toward business district projects that, once completed, will result in ADA and life safety improvements, several apartments, and new commercial kitchens to bring eateries needed to support a thriving business district. On March 22, over 200 people attended a public presentation of the plan at Kent Levy Court and virtually. The plan, developed by the Mosaic Development Partners team with engagement of over 800 community members and thought leaders, has been received enthusiastically by the community! By July 1, DDP signed a contract with Dover Kent MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization) to complete the Downtown Dover Pathways Study, to better connect key activity centers within the Capital City. By Labor Day, Property Development Director, Ken Anderson, was hired, fulfilling a key DDP priority to secure most qualified candidate to oversee site-readiness and redevelopment of three large scale DDP-owned sites. By October 30, two crosswalks were painted by community members and new light post banners featuring local artwork were installed, adding vibrancy downtown through “placemaking.” On November 20, DDP received word that the EPA accepted DDP’s Environmental Assessment Grant application. On December 11, the Binding Memorandum of Understanding was signed for 120 S. Governor’s Ave. redevelopment between Mosaic Development Partners, Colonial Parking Inc., and the Downtown Dover Partnership. Private investment is being spurred by the final plan and commensurate activity, including selection of developer by the City of Dover to redevelop the former post office site, to include 30 market-rate apartments, two commercial spaces and on-site parking. We anticipate this kind of private investment will continue. 2024 holds plans for continued, aggressive implementation of the plan. The transformation has begun! Diane Laird, Executive Director Shop Eat Explore and Repeat in Downtown Dover! Our vision for Downtown Dover... An increasingly vibrant and thriving downtown. A regional destination. People of all ages will fill downtown to visit museums and cultural attractions, have a nice meal, shop at unique retail stores, and enjoy numerous, varied and playful things to do, both inside and outdoors. It’s happening downtown! mi “One Summer’s Night” by Hyo Lee, Paint Dover! 2023 Our Mission The Downtown Dover Partnership is committed to driving an improved quality of life for the residents and visitors of Dover, Delaware, through collective collaboration, economic development and promotion of downtown Dover’s unique historic properties. MAIN STREET AMERICA 2023 Accredited

353 cards sold! 235 cards redeemed! ECONOMIC VITALITY Se $14,840 for downtown Lom iB $7,000 BOGO match by DDP resulting in $10,136 downtown sales! Net gain of 8 downtown businesses Two REAP* loans awarded *Retention Expansion Assistance Program Otis Brooks, Tastee’s Chevonne Boyd, The Hive BUSINESSES ASSISTED—2023 a er Ethnicity: African American 32 Caucasian 20 Hispanic 2 Other CDCC Economic Development Achievement Award \i The DDP received the 2023 award that “recognizes a community partner that aN y Mature che CMH HIE eee see WY P : Female 23 The award is only granted when a person or entity goes “above and beyond” Male 34 in helping to grow the economy here in Central Delaware. Disadvantaged Small Businesses: Veteran 1 Persons with Significant Disability 0 CRITICAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM ALLOCATED TO Minority PROPERTY OWNERS - a $1.2 M Anticipate significant Focus of Assistance: 5 - a ; growth in private property SBA/EDGE/Other 8 DDP recei itional: i ee retavestmentiong Facade/Signage/Architectural 10 $675 K redevelopment in 2024! Downtown Development District 12 Seeking downtown location 19 Critical Improvements Program Together will result in: $7 M ..in improvements to existing buildings & occupancy of formerly vacant buildings. \ Z pe Fifth Annual! ; ‘ ’ Op i | ll * “age SMALL Cr if DOVER AIR FORCE BASE ; = Newcomers Orientation Partnering with... 2: The Biggs & oti, % 26 Artists Dover Art League “ RS Ne Two Painted $2,270 S i I, Crosswalk Pilots ; atur rays list, parents es ARTWORK SALES mone Quit a5 Art Baniers 397 VIEWS—VIRTUAL EXHIBITION MARKETING & PROMOTIONS PROMOTED, IMPLEMENTED, AND/OR PARTNERED ON E First Saturday's - Small Business Saturday - Dover Days - Capital Holiday Celebration STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS. The Biggs Museum of American Art, Bayhealth, The Cendel Foundation, Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce, City of Dover (Finance, Mayor, Council & City Manager’s Office, Planning & Inspections, Police, Department, Public Works), Delaware Arts Alliance, Delaware Division of Arts (DDOA), Delaware State Housing Authority, Delaware State University, Delaware Technical Community College, Destination Downtown Dover (D3), Dover Air Force Base, Dover Art League, Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing, Kent County Tourism, Kent Sussex Leadership Alliance, Mid-Atlantics Arts, Office of State Planning Coordination, DE Small Business Development Center, SCORE, True Access Capital and Wilm U. D MEMBE ELD BY DD H City of Dover Economic Development Committee, Dover Days and Capital Holiday Celebration Committees, Equitable Entrepreneurial Ecosystem (Pete DuPont Freedom Foundation), HELP Initiative, Kent County Tourism, NeighborGood Partners/Restoring Central Dover (Steering Committee). 9.8 K Followers 6% INCREASE Since 2023

MERCHANTS ¢ Hosted four merchant window decorating contests to beautify downtown, light up windows, and uniquely display merchandise. ¢ Maintain Downtown Dover Business Directory. Unlock value shopping! OSern| 377 REGISTERED USERS 29% increase from 2022 17 PARTICIPATING MERCHANTS ¢ Held three merchant mixers and five meetings to increase camaraderie and communications among business owners, ¢ Provided ongoing communications to promote news, grants, training and resources to assist merchants. PARKING February's First Place Window Contest Winner! 2021 DOWNTOWN PARKING SOLUTION DOWNTOWN DOVER PATHWAYS STUDY Planning in process to build multi-modal Dover Kent MPO plan initiated to identify means to better transportation hub featuring parking garage, connect business anchors to downtown via walking, bike share, micro-transit bus services by 2026. bicycling, scooter, and other micromobility options. ORGANIZATION $3,550 Corporate Sponsorships $5,500 DE Division of Arts = $10,000 SBDC Navigator Program $130,500 Dover Kent MPO $150,000 City of Dover $150,000 Grant-in-Aid 972 $3.0 M DE State Bond Bill VOLUNTEER HOURS mae - 7 P - $28,732 & j Community members celebrate with VOLUNTEER HOURS a) Donny and Kim Legans, owners of Rail Haus, mebentemeeen $ 3, 4 49, 550M Dover’s new year ‘round beer garden. GRANTS, SPONSORSHIPS RECEIVED Those visiting, working, and living downtown will begin to see significant, visible change — a glimpse of things to come - in the downtown business district due to implementation of the master plan. Amidst jackhammers, excavators, bucket trucks, bulldozers, street sweepers, and the like, they will also see a reduction in commercial building vacancy, increased foot traffic, road infrastructure and transportation improvements, including a parking structure, as well as preparations for 200 new residents (toward goal of 2000) in multi-story buildings, alternative modes of getting around the city, and color and vibrancy in the district. Conceptual drawing of mixed-use redevelopment at 120 S. Governors Ave.

=, \ DOWNTOWN DOVER 2024 ) “@Ni PARTNERSHIP On the horizon! Throughout 2024 and into 2026, DDP will focus on six major projects of the Capital City 2030 strategic plan, several of which will utilize $25M in State funds allocated to DDP and the City of Dover: 1. Implementation of underground infrastructure improvements to support planned redevelopment by City of Dover. 2. A multi-modal transportation hub will be constructed, featuring a parking garage, bike share, and micro-transit bus services that will provide for transportation needs of the community, including residents, workers, and visitors. Planned completion 2026. 3. DDP’s priority redevelopment project with Mosaic Development Partners and Colonial Parking at 120 S. Governor’s Ave. will be nearing completion. This project lies in the heart of downtown and plans include a six-story, mixed-use complex with approximately 160 residences and ground level small-scale, full-service grocery, coffee shop, fitness center, and daycare center. 4. The now underway Critical Improvements Program will support approximately $6M in public/private investment for retrofits to existing buildings in the central business district. 5. Completion and implementation of the Downtown Dover Pathways Plan via Dover Kent MPO will better connect key activity centers and downtown anchors (Bayhealth, DSU, the State of Delaware, and DAFB) facilitating a more walkable district, and will include bike, scooter, and micro-mobility options. 6. Build on success of several creative arts/placemaking initiatives toward ongoing public arts programming, including additional painted crosswalks, a community art walk and performance amphitheater. Details of the Capital City 2030: Transforming Downtown Dover master plan available at tinyurl.com/CapitalCity2030. Thank The myriad details that surround a project of this size and magnitude are overwhelming. Full community buy-in is critical for overall transformation. Senator Trey Paradee and government leaders at the State, County and City level, local non-profits including NeighborGood Partners, Dover Kent MPO, and Kent County Tourism, and grassroots volunteers too numerous to mention are vital to the plan’s success. The DDP core team of colleagues, including DDP Board President Todd Stonesifer, City Manager Dave Hugg, Dina Vendetti (Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce), Linda Parkowski (Kent Economic Partnership), and DDP staff, as well as volunteers, daily address both the bird’s-eye and the worm’s-eye views to coordinate the various elements of the plan. Leadership of the board of directors provides valuable advisement throughout. Thank you, team! EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE BOARD MEMBERS David Hugg, City Manager Todd Stonesifer, President Kim Adams Sarah Keifer John Van Gorp, Vice President Councilwoman Tricia Arndt Donny Legans Jonathan Street, Secretary Codi Canasa Dawn Melson-Williams Pete Bradley, Treasurer Mayor Robin Christiansen Councilman Fred Neil Dr. Stacy Downing Senator Trey Paradee STAFF Mary Ellen Gray, Planning Director * Linda Parkowski Diane Laird, Executive Director William Grimes Carla Wilson * Tina Bradbury, Operations Manager *Served until June 30, 2023 Jordan Resh, Office Administrator Ken Anderson, Property Development Director ASSETS / BALANCE SHEET December 2023 Cash & Investments Land & Buildings, Equipment, Accum Deprec. TOTAL ASSETS Leases/Sales Contracts, NotesPayable| Ss DowntownDover.com TOTALLIABILITIES| 3,055,815) Invested: Land/Buildings Unreserved]| | 101 W. Loockerman St. FUND BALANCES Suite 2-B TOTAL LIABILITIES & FUND BALANCES Beane, 302-678-2940 NOTE: Real Estate Holdings & Loan Balances are not updated for FY 23 until m ¥ entries are generated by the Tax Accountant. C3 > nN

Delaware State News - 02/09/2024 Page : A08& Division of Small Business recognizes EDGE winners Daily State News DOVER — The Delaware Division of Small Business on Tuesday recog- nized 10 small businesses as winners in the latest round of the Encouraging Development, Growth and Expansion Grant Competition. Awardees include a company look- ing to develop residential electric ve- hicle chargers, one constructing im- proved hand/arm prosthetics, another building a mobility device for getting into bed and one seeking to purchase computers and streaming equipment for its esports events. Gov. John Carney, deputy secre- tary of state Kristopher Knight and the division’s director Regina Mitch- ell announced the winners at Harhe- son’s Delaware Dynamix, one of the recipients. “Building a strong economy starts with supporting our small business community,” said Gov. Carney in a news release announcing the awards. “The EDGE grant program provides young businesses with much-needed capital assistance that they may not have access to otherwise. I’m excited to see how this round of EDGE grant recipients use(s) this funding to grow their business.” Businesses that are less than 7 years old and employ no more than 10 full- time workers (or full-time equivalents) are eligible to apply for the grants. Af- ter an internal review, 16 finalists are selected to pitch their proposals to an outside panel of experts. Ten companies are selected, with five STEM-based companies each February 21, 2024 11:43 am (GMT -5:00) Encouraging Development, Growth and Expansion Grant Competition winners were recognized Tuesday during a ceremony In Harbeson. PHOTO COURTESY OF DELAWARE DIVISION OF SMALL BUSINESS receiving up to $100,000 for eligible expenses and five Entrepreneur Class (non-STEM) winning up to $50,000. EDGE is a matching-grant pro- gram, meaning the Division of Small Business matches a winning busi- ness’s investment on a 3-to-1 basis. The company can spend the funds on expenses to improve its long-term chances of success, such as a market- ing campaign to acquire more custom- ers or purchasing a piece of equipment that can increase production capacity. Including this round, $5.6 million has been awarded to 90 small busi- nesses since EDGE was launched in 2019, in industries ranging from wearable medical devices to farming to restaurants. This is the eighth round of EDGE funding. Approximately 115 busi- nesses applied for September 2023, and 16 finalists gave presentations in November. From those, the following recipients were selected: STEM Class + Marin’s Med, Georgetown. + OmniPotential Energy, Wilming- ton. + RunDNA, Wilmington. + Sindri Materials Corp., Wilming- ton. + Studio Charter, Wilmington. Entrepreneur Class + Baybird Orthodontics, Smyrna. + Delaware Dynamix. + Futures First Gaming, Middle- town/Wilmington. + The Hive on Loockerman, Dover. + LeGrand Co., Hockessin. The first EDGE competition for 2024 began accepting applications Feb. 1. They will be accepted until March 1 at 4:30 p.m. Visit de.gov/ edge for information. Powered by TECNAVIA

Delaware State News - 02/12/2024 z Gregory Reaves, CEO and co-founder of Mosaic Development Partners, shows Gov. John Carney where a multi-modal transportation hub with more than 300 parking spaces will be bullt between South Governors Avenue and South Bradford Street as part of the Capital City 2030 Transforming Downtown Dover master plan. DAILY STATE NEWS/MIKE FINNEY Page: AO1 Carney’s funding commitment propels downtown Dover revitalization efforts By Mike Finney Daily State News DOVER — With each step that Gov. John Carney took down Loockerman Street on Friday and into the heart of downtown, he could feel the positive energy from the crowd around him as he took a first-hand peek into the “Capital City 2030 Transforming Downtown Dover” plan. That crowd included members of the Downtown Dover Partnership, city of Dover government, state leg- islators and others. In the week prior to his visit, Gov. Carney announced the state of Del- aware’s plan to invest more than $25 February 21, 2024 12:01 pm (GMT -5:00) million into three priority projects for the revitalizing downtown Dover plan. “T think one of the things that’s really obvious is how much support they have from the local community and projects like this, as big as this is and as impactful as it can be, don’t really happen unless you have every- thing pulling in the same direction,” Gov. Carney said. “It’s very obvious that that’s what is happening here. “I just think that the concept of getting more people downtown makes a lot of sense for the business- es that are here and for enlivening the area in the community really is exciting.” The state’s proposed funding will help jump start Philadelphia-based Mosaic Development Partners in getting the long-term revitalization project underway. The develop- ment firm finalized its plan for Do- ver’s revitalization in January 2023. With $10 million proposed in the Fiscal Year 2025 recommended Bond Bill and $15.1 million allocat- ed by Gov. Carney from the state’s American Rescue Plan Act funds, the Downtown Dover master plan is expected to be able to: + Make critical water and waste- water infrastructure upgrades nec- essary to support downtown devel- See Dover — Page 5 Powered by TECNAVIA

Delaware State News - 02/12/2024 DELAWARE STATE NEWS | BAYTOBAYNEWS.COM Page : A05 MONDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2024 | 5 Dover Continued From Page 1 opment, with a projected cost of $1.7 million. + Begin construction on a six-story retail and residential building at 120 S. Governors Ave., which is envi- sioned to have a community grocery store, day care and retail space along with 140-180 residential units, with a total projected cost of around $80 million. + Build a much-needed multi-level transportation center between South Governors and South Bradford St. with more than 300 parking spaces, a bus stop, with bike share and elec- tric vehicle charging. The center will serve downtown businesses and pro- vide parking for the new retail-resi- dential building across the street, with a projected cost of about $14 million. Mosaic developers eager to break ground Gregory Reaves, CEO and co-founder of Mosaic Development partners, was on hand for the gover- nor’s visit to downtown Dover. He was thrilled to hear about the funding for the revitalization project and excited to move closer to putting shovels in the ground. Mosaic Development Partners was selected by the Downtown Dover Partnership to develop the initial two properties. The group has a track record of successful redevelopment projects, largely around Philadelphia, includ- ing at the Philadelphia Navy Yard. Colonial Parking Inc. is also a partner in the project. “It’s so meaningful, not only to the specific projects that it supports, but to the people around the city to see that progress is being made,” Mr. Reaves said, “This is a community that really deserves this level of investment. We couldn’t be more thrilled than to be a part of this and work with the great people in Dover. “I see incredible potential for Do- ver. We frankly wouldn’t come here if we didn’t see it.” The state funding will be split between the city of Dover and the Downtown Dover Partnership and is expected to fully fund the utility work and the parking garage construction. A portion of the state funding will be added to private loans and invest- ment, housing tax credits and grants to finance the retail-residential build- ing. Diane Laird, executive director ~_ SS _— These are several members of the revitallzatlon partners, community members, pollticlans and others who joined Gov. John Camey for a glimpse of downtown Dover's revitalization efforts on Friday, DANY STATE NEWS/MIKE FINNEY with the Downtown Dover Partner- ship, said state funding is needed to match and encourage private invest- ment at the early stages of the revital- ization plan. Todd Stonesifer, president of the board of directors for the DDP and a downtown business owner, said it also seems to be like a dream that the plan is coming together. “The pieces are falling togeth- er and coming together so magical- ly, and with the governor's help and the administration's help, it becomes a reality,” he said. “I was pleasantly shocked, pleasantly surprised ... ec- static is the best word I can use to de- scribe it. February 21, 2024 12:03 pm (GMT -5:00) i Todd Stonesifer, president of the board of directors for the Downtown Dover Partnership and a down: town business owner, points out some of the highlights of Dover's revitalization plan to Gov, John Car- ney at The Hive on Loockerman Street on Friday. DAILY STATE NEWS/MIKE FINNEY “Shovels are not far from going in the ground. We’re going to start with the multi-modal transportation facili- ty and then we'll follow quickly and parallel out of the ground with a six- or seven-story mixed-use building (across the street).” Dover Mayor Robin Christiansen agrees that things are certainly look- ing up when it comes to development in downtown Dover. “The City of Dover has a solid road map for its revitalization, building on efforts the city and its partners have been making over the last several years, and this state funding will make those plans a reality,” the mayor said. “Combining the Governor’s Av- enue projects with the city’s recent selection of a redeveloper for the old post office and construction on the new Family Court building and park- ing garage, the key building blocks for downtown's future are coming into place.” Capitalizing on city’s future By the time Mosaic’s $500 mil- lion Capital City plan for down- town is completed over the second half of this decade, it hopes to have 927 residential areas across six sites, a 27,500-square-foot grocery store, 204 hotel rooms, 792 parking plac- es, 97,000-square-feet of commercial space, 21.6 acres of green space and 2,575-linear feet of river walk. “When people come and say, ‘Hey, we should do this. This is our capital city,’ you know, that’s a big deal,” Gov. Carney said. “It’s certainly a big deal for me. “I’m really excited about the opportunity, but of course, we've got to get it done. “There’s time limits on the projects themselves and hopefully we'll have the capacity within the engineering, planning and construction communi- ties to deliver the projects on time.” The governor also admitted, “The State of Delaware has a vested inter- est in the success of downtown Dover, not only because it is our capital city, but because it is where thousands of state employees work and where many would like to live.” Staff writer Mike Finney can be reached at 302-741-8230 or mifinney@iniusa.org. Follow @MikeFinneyDSN on X. Powered by TECNAVIA

Funding available for eligible downtown Dover businesses By Mike Finney Daily State News DOVER — While projects for the ambitious “Capital City 2030: Trans- forming Downtown Dover” master plan continue to move forward, the plan's architects insist they have not forgotten about the city’s existing his- toric properties and businesses. The Downtown Dover Partner- ship has announced a second round of funding that will be allocated for improvements to existing downtown business district properties in need of critical repairs and upgrades. Property owners must complete a pre-application to be considered for funding. Pre-applications are due by Thursday, Feb, 8 and may be ac- cessed at https://tinyurl.com/Critica- Improvements. A DDP Critical Improvements Review Panel will review pre-appli- cations in mid-February, after which those whose projects that most align with program criteria will be invited to make a formal application. “Vacancy inthe Dover central busi- ness district is exacerbated by the fact that many buildings are in extremely poor condition,” said Diane Laird, executive director of the Downtown Dover Partnership. “The gap in fi- nancing to bring these properties up to current use versus the actual property value once the buildings are improved is simply too wide for property owners to make the needed improvements. “But doing so will make them more leasable, and that will spur economic growth in the downtown commercial core.” Ms. Laird added that allocations for these kinds of improvements began while the city’s ongoing revitalization master plan was still being developed and in anticipation of new construc- tion that will soon be a reality. These funds will position older buildings to be leased more competi- tively alongside projected new devel opment. Last year, the DDP allocated near- ly $1.2 million toward 10 projects that, once completed, will result in as many as eight ADA-compliant re- strooms, fire suppression systems, and several residential apartments, above ground floor retail spaces, as well as several new commercial kitchens to bring restaurants and eateries that are needed to support a thriving business Project partners celebrate Rail Haus owners’ receipt of Critical Improvements prior to the business opening late lastyear. Qwners Kim and Donny Legans are behind/to right of the sign. PHOTO SUBMITTED BY DOWNTOWN DOVER PARTNERSHIP: Commercial kitchens are considered a critical improvement as as the Dover central business district needs additional food options. The Downtown Dover Partnership Is looking for businesses seeking Crit- Ical Improvement funds. From right to left, Rail Haus Head Chef Steve Walls, Sous Chef James Black- district. When funding from the DDP’s Critical Improvements Program is coupled with other state and local in- centives, property owners’ personal outlay could become proportionately less, according to Ms. Laird. Donny Legans, owner of the new Rail Haus beer garden at 92 N. West St. in Dover, had to layer several sources of funding to enable his proj- ect to come to completion. “In a project like this, costs add up quickly,” said Mr. Legans, who opened his beer garden late last year. “The CIP funding came in at just the right time to cover a sprinkler system, as well as the new commercial kitchen and ADA compliant restrooms.” well, Line Cooks Rich Evans, Vernell Scott and Joshua Holmes, serve up good tastes at Dover's beer Barden. SUBMITED PHOTO BY DOWNTOWN DOVER PARTNERSHIP He said he feels like even bigger things are on the horizon for the city has a whole. “I can sense Dover is on the cusp of a truly great and impactful devel- opment boom and CIP is the partner program helping lead the way,” said Mr. Legans. Each dollar of funding in the first round is expected to leverage approx- imately five dollars from the private sector, resulting in nearly a $6 million in reinvestment to downtown. This second round is anticipat- ed to add another $675,000 in CIP funds toward eligible projects which, once completed, will total more than a $3 million investment in additional building improvements. These investments will be tak- ing place while action begins on the DDP’s priority redevelopment project at 120 S. Governor's Ave., which is anticipated to include a six-story retail and residential building, a communi- ty gtocery store, day care and retail space along with 140-180 residential units, with a total projected cost of around $80 million. “The Downtown Dover Partner- ship, along with developer Mosaic Development Partners and project partner Colonial Parking Inc., are now finalizing a joint redevelopment agreement for construction of a new mixed-use property,” DDP Project Development Director Ken Anderson said. “An ‘almost adjacent’ 300-space multi-modal parking facility will be part of that project and is targeted for completion by the end of 2026.” The DDP organization said it works closely with the City of Dover’s Planning office and has been through- out the whole revitalization of down- town Dover process. “We coordinate very closely with the Dover City Planning office,” said Tina Bradbury, DDP director of op- erations. “As part of the process to for- mally apply for Critical Improvements funding, property owners will need to meet with planning staff to determine if projects are feasible, and if so, proj- ects will be considered for an alloca- tion of funds.” Final applications for the funding program will be taken in March. “The panel members will then look at each final application with the pri- orities of the grant program and an- ticipated completion time frames in mind, as well as occupancy status of the properties,” Ms. Laird said. Funds will not be dispersed to the property owners until work is com- pleted according to the approved ap- plications, a certificate of occupancy is obtained, and properties are leased and occupied for 30 days. Projects with a targeted completion within one year are a high priority. For information on the grant pro- gram and the master plan, visit www. DowntownDover.com. Staff writer Mike Finney can ba reached at 302-741-8230 or mfinney@iniusa.org. Follow @MikeFinneyDSN on X.

Delaware State News - 06/20/2023 Page: a | From left, employee Susan Obey, chef Richard Bagwell and owner Theresa Owens are enjoying watching the growth of Stonerall Market, a spe- clalty sandwich shop and wine bar that recently opened at 25 W. Loockerman St. In Dover. DELAWARE STATE NEWS/MIKE FINNEY Doubling down on downtown Dover Boutique owner opens Stonerail Market on Loockerman By Mike Finney Delaware State News DOVER — Theresa Owens, who has a flair for bringing old buildings back to life, is right at home in the downtown district. In mid-May, the Smyrna native opened Stonerail Market at 25 W. Loockerman St., taking on a restau- rateur’s role in addition to owning June 21, 2023 10:38 am (GMT -4:00) BLUvintage, a boutique at 150 S. Governors Ave. “I love to bring new life back into places, and I like old buildings,” Ms. Owens said. “I wanted to expand from the clothing store to doing a restaurant. I just felt that there was a need for a nice little lunch place (downtown) during the week. “All the tourists come down on the weekend, and all the businesspeople can’t always (take) 30 minutes for lunch, so now, there is just something to get a grab-and-go if they'd like.” She tabbed former 33 West Ale House & Grill owner and chef Bran- don Pelton to help build the menu, a wide array of wraps, sandwiches, ap- See Downtown — Page 14 Al3 Powered by TECNAVIA

Delaware State News - 06/20/2023 Downtown Continued From Page 13 petizers, salads, mac and cheese, and selections for kids. “I would definitely say it’s craft sandwiches and a wine bar,” she said. “Our sandwiches are a mixture of light and filling, I hired Brandon from 33 West to create the menu, and it was basically focusing on twists of every- day meals, like a BLT, to add a little twist to it.” So, instead of a routine bacon, let- tuce and tomato, the Stonerail Market version features spring mix, avocado and a light spread of pesto mayo on sourdough bread. For starters, the eatery offers fried Brussels sprouts with bacon chips, toasted almonds and julienned ap- ples, topped with a drizzle of balsamic reduction and Stonerail hot honey. Meanwhile, entree sandwiches in- clude everything from chicken to tur- key to roast beef, plus a veggie wrap and chicken salad. Right now, Stonerail Market is op- erating on a soft schedule — Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., with a plan to expand hours and the menu next month. You can find it just across from the E-ZPass Customer Service Center. And Ms. Owens is confident that downtown Dover, which has faced some turmoil in recent years, is back on the upswing. That’s why she chose to reinvest in it. “T’ve been in the thick of it for the past 10-15 years with my business (BLUvintage) and being in down- town Dover, so I’ve been lucky to watch it go up, go down, and I abso- lutely see it coming back,” she said. “I see a lot of people just happy to see more businesses opening up, and there is a strong support factor. “The restaurant actually comple- June 21, 2023 10:38 am (GMT -4:00) Page: Al4 ments (the boutique). I’ve seen busi- ness go up more at both locations, so it’s a great marketing tool.” Ms. Owens said she has received a big bite of support from her downtown neighbors since opening Stonerail. “Tt seems like, the past year, we’ve all just gotten stronger because, with- out us working together as a commu- nity, we would all fail, and I think we're all starting to understand that, and we all text, talk, call and visit each other’s shops,” she said. “Angelo’s (Pizza employees) will eat my food, and I'll eat at Angelo’s. La Hacienda’s been helpful in getting me this equipment and other things. Forney’s has been helpful, not only with the clothing aspect of things with me but also sending customers Susan Obey, left, and Theresa Owens frequently Interact with thelr business nelghbors on Loockerman Street. DELAWARE STATE NEWS/MIKE ANNEY to come eat at the cafe. I couldn’t be happier with the group that I’m sur- rounded by.” Ms. Owens admits that her life has gotten a bit more hectic in recent weeks, but she feels she is up to the added responsibility. “Thank goodness I’ve got some great managers in place to help me with the daily preparations, but I’ve been preparing for this for a while, and everyone is a great team player,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to give back, and I’ve always had this drive where I just wanted to make chang- es. I was always very opinionated and aggressive, so I thought that it was probably more of a leader role for me, rather than to be a worker bee.” Oh, and about that “Stonerail Mar- ket” title: She said she enjoys creating unique names and that there’s really nothing significant about it. “This place has been a lot of differ- ent things through the years, and it is an old building that was built in 1856, so I felt like, ‘Well, it’s got to be like ‘stone,’ so I just put the words ‘stone’ (and) ‘rail’ together as a word. Just like at BLUvintage, it’s its own word, and nobody understood it, but once you come in, and you understand what it is, it builds its own name. “I just want to create my own leg- acy.” Reach Stonerail Market at 302- 554-0058 or via its Facebook page. Staff writer Mike Finney can be reached at 302- 741-8230 or mfinney@iniusa.org. Follow @ MikeFinneyDSN on Twitter. Powered by TECNAVIA

DOVER/KENT COUNTY MPO METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION POB 383 / Dover, DE 19903 / http://www.doverkentmpo.org / 302.387.6030 FAX: 302.387.6032 Request for Proposal - Study Scope Dover Kent County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is seeking priced proposals from qualified professional consulting firms to perform specific assignments in support of the MPO’s FY25 UPWP plan of work that will result in the implementation of a transportation, land use, and economic development strategy for Kent County, Delaware. Deadline for responses is 4:00 PM, March 1, 2024. Project: Loockerman Street Traffic Calming / Street Activation (Dover) Narrative: This project was requested by Downtown Dover Partnership. This project will emphasize on- street activation, balancing sidewalk space with on-street parking, and making motor vehicles less intrusive. Focus on bringing Loockerman Street stakeholders together to envision their desired future and see how the street design could support that vision. It will incorporate broad goals of the Strategic Master Plan (“Capital City 2030: Transforming Downtown Dover” by Mosaic Development Partners dated 01-30-23), as well as compliment recent planning studies in the adjacent area. Expected Components: Task 1- Project Start-Up Task 2- Data Collection Task 3- Community Engagement & Education - Including an outreach plan for reaching the greatest number of nearby residents - MPO’s Public Participation Plan is available here Task 4- Key Issues Identification; including - Alternatives Review - Recommended Alternative Purpose and Need Statement - Proposed Performance Measures - Identify any Equity/Title VI concerns (the MPO’s Title VI Plan is available here) Task 5- Draft Document, including appropriate stakeholder presentations - Sponsor (DDP) - MPO Public Advisory Committee - MPO Technical Advisory Committee - MPO Council Task 6- Final Document - 3 bound copies - Electronic copy in Word format and PDF Please provide the MPO with an estimated cost and an estimate of time needed to complete the outlined tasks.