CCW PACKET-REVISED 10-20-2017
Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals. 24 oktòb 2017.
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Paj 1
COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
AGENDA
OCTOBER 24, 2017 - 6:00 P.M.
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
15 LOOCKERMAN PLAZA
DOVER, DELAWARE
PUBLIC COMMENTS ARE WELCOMED ON ANY ITEM AND WILL BE PERMITTED AT APPROPRIATE
TIMES. WHEN POSSIBLE, PLEASE NOTIFY THE CITY CLERK (736-7008 OR E-MAIL AT
CITYCLERK@DOVER.DE.US) SHOULD YOU WISH TO BE RECOGNIZED.
SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
1. AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
2. UPDATE - ALTERNATIVE TO SPEED BUMPS - ANN AVENUE (SUDLER)
(DURING THEIR MEETING OF JULY 24, 2017, CITY COUNCIL APPROVED THE COMMITTEE’S
RECOMMENDATION TO: A) INSTALL A TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT SIGN ON ANN AVENUE; B) INSTALL
STRICTLY ENFORCED SPEED LIMIT SIGNS ON ANN AVENUE; AND C) PERFORM A TRAFFIC STUDY ON
WALKER ROAD AND ANN AVENUE INDICATING THE TIMING OF THE LIGHTS AND THE COUNT, DATE,
AND TIME OF TRAFFIC FLOW)
3. ADJOURNMENT OF SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MEETING
UTILITY COMMITTEE
1. AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
2. AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT SIDEWALK COMPLIANCE - LINCOLN STREET
(STAFF RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF THE PROPOSED SIDEWALK ORIENTATION TO COMPLY WITH
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT)
3. CONWELL STREET DISCUSSION
(DURING THEIR MEETING OF AUGUST 28, 2017, CITY COUNCIL APPROVED THE COMMITTEE’S
RECOMMENDATION THAT A LEGAL OPINION REGARDING THE OWNERSHIP OF CONWELL STREET AND
THE CITY'S LEGAL OPTIONS IN REGARD TO THIS MATTER BE PROVIDED AT THE NEXT UTILITY
COMMITTEE MEETING)
4. ADJOURNMENT OF UTILITY COMMITTEE MEETING
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COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE AGENDA - OCTOBER 24, 2017 Page 2
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
1. AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
2. PROPOSED ORDINANCES
A. #2017-14 AMENDING CHAPTER 30 - CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETHICS COMMISSION (CITY OF
DOVER ETHICS INITIATIVE) (SPONSORS: LINDELL, POLCE, AND SLAVIN)
(DEFERRED DURING THE COMMITTEE MEETING OF OCTOBER 10, 2017)
B. #2017-15 AMENDING CHAPTER 34 - ELECTIONS, ARTICLE III - ABSENTEE VOTING (SPONSORS:
ANDERSON AND LINDELL)
(STAFF RECOMMENDS ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE #2017-15)
3. UPDATE - RESOLUTION NO. 2017-10 - ESTABLISHING THE “MAKING DOVER PROSPER” INITIATIVE
4. DISCUSSION - DEVELOPMENT OF POLICIES/PROCEDURES
A. LEGAL OPINIONS
B. EXCUSED ABSENCES
5. ADJOURNMENT OF LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MEETING
ADJOURNMENT OF COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING
/TM
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\COMMITTEE-AGENDAS\2017\10-24-2017 CCW AGENDA.WPD
THE 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 THE DELETION OF ITEMS, INCLUDING EXECUTIVE
SESSIONS, WHICH ARISE AT THE TIME OF THE MEETING.
Paj 3
COUNCIL MINUTES HISTORY
ALTERNATIVE TO SPEED BUMPS - ANN AVENUE
An Excerpt from the Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of July 24, 2017:
The Regular Council Meeting was held on July 24, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. with Council President Slavin
presiding. Council members present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil, Mr. Lewis,
Mr. Polce, Mr. Hare, and Mr. Lindell. Mr. Cole was absent.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT - JUNE 27, 2017
The Council Committee of the Whole met on June 27, 2017 at 6:00 p.m., with
Council President Slavin presiding. Members of Council present were Mr. Anderson
(arrived at 6:07 p.m.), Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Cole, Mr. Polce (departed at
6:42 p.m. and returned at 6:44 p.m.), Mr. Hare, and Mr. Lindell. Mayor Christiansen was
also present (arrived at 6:11 p.m., departed at 6:47 p.m. and returned at 6:50 p.m.). Civilian
members present for their Committee meetings were Mr. Garfinkel and Mr. Shelton
(Safety Advisory and Transportation), and Mr. Shevock and Dr. Stewart (Legislative,
Finance, and Administration).
SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
The Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee met with Chairman Lewis
presiding.
Alternative to Speed Bumps - Ann Avenue (Sudler)
Mr. Sudler advised that he had received correspondence from and spoken with
Mr. Francis Bethel regarding a possible speed reduction method for Ann Avenue.
Mr. Francis Bethel, 207 Ann Avenue, advised that he had lived in northwest Dover
Heights all his life, having bought a home in 1990 down the street from where he
grew up. He noted that people are in more of a hurry than they were in the 1960s and
1970s and cars speed through the area. Mr. Bethel informed members that there were
many children in the area, and he expressed concern that a child would get hit by a
car. He stated that he knew that there were issues regarding speed bumps due to
ambulances that may come through. Mr. Bethel asked if a radar sign like the signs
that are on State Street could be placed on Ann Avenue to show people that they are
speeding.
Mr. Lewis noted that he had previously explained to Mr. Bethel that speed bumps are
not allowed in the City of Dover because they slow down emergency vehicles and
apparatus. Responding, Mr. Bethel stated that he understood that speed bumps were
not allowed and asked if there were other alternatives.
Mr. Sudler asked if Mr. Bethel, as a constituent of the Fourth District, had any other
speed concerns that were causing him alarm. Mr. Bethel indicated that he had a
traffic issue that would be better served when addressing transportation matters.
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COUNCIL MINUTES HISTORY -
ALTERNATIVE TO SPEED BUMPS - ANN AVENUE PAGE 2
Mr. Sudler noted that he had received some concerns regarding ATVs, four-wheelers,
and off road vehicles and asked Mr. Bethel if he had heard any of these vehicles. In
response. Mr. Bethel advised that he had heard motorbikes late at night before, which
were annoying.
Mr. Neil stated that the radar signs that Mr. Bethel had referred to had been funded
by State senators and representatives, and it was unknown if funding would be
available after the State budget is finalized. He expressed his belief that a study
would have to be done to find out what the conditions are, as had been done with
other communities and streets, such as North State Street and Independence
Boulevard. Mr. Neil noted that there are other traffic calming measures.
Police Chief Marvin Mailey stated that he was very familiar with the situation on
Ann Avenue, having been a police officer in the City for several years. He noted that
he was aware that speed bumps could not be used but suggested that a traffic
enforcement sign would be ideal for the situation. Chief Mailey explained that this
sign would flash, make people aware of their speed, and provide awareness to those
outside or traveling along that same road that the person is speeding, which would
apply peer pressure. In addition, he stated that a marked police car could be placed
in the area for traffic enforcement, and enforcement action could be taken via a traffic
ticket if speeding is observed. Chief Mailey stated that this approach would be a
deterrent; however, it usually only works when an officer is in the area. He noted
that the Police Department’s focus in the last several months had been on reducing
violent crime, which was taking officers elsewhere in the City. Chief Mailey stated
that the Department receives speeding complaints from people throughout the City,
noting that Mr. Hare had raised concern regarding a similar speeding situation on
Wyoming Avenue.
Chief Mailey offered to bring Ann Avenue to the attention of the Special
Enforcement Unit to make it part of their rotation for traffic enforcement. He
indicated that this would be the easiest solution for the problem, noting that he did
not think that other methods were feasible for the City. Chief Mailey stated that
another method he was aware of was the use of traffic humps, which are similar to
traffic bumps but elongated so that the increase in the height of the roadway is not
sudden, so vehicles do not bottom out. He advised that there could also be raised
crosswalks at the end of the streets and wherever crosswalks are designated;
however, he was not sure that this would fit within the City’s of Dover's economic
plan, and he had no knowledge of and could not speak to the engineering.
Chief Mailey noted that traffic circles also slow traffic down; however, Ann Avenue
was not large enough to accommodate a traffic circle. He informed members that
some major cities use chicanes, which force cars to slow down to steer right or left
through erected safety poles in a road, similar to slalom skiing, but was unsure if this
would work within the City of Dover. He stated that, from a cost aspect, the best
solution to the problem would be traffic enforcement and, after that, traffic signs.
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COUNCIL MINUTES HISTORY -
ALTERNATIVE TO SPEED BUMPS - ANN AVENUE PAGE 3
In response to Mr. Sudler, Chief Mailey clarified that chicanes involve several poles
in the road that guide vehicles along, similar to a Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
driving course, noting that they are sometimes used at approaches to large
government buildings or events where traffic is forced to change directions. He
stated that chicanes slow cars down; however, he expressed his opinion that a larger
roadway than Ann Avenue provides would be needed for installation, noting that he
is not an engineer.
Mr. Sudler asked, in Chief Mailey’s professional opinion and experience, which of
Chief Mailey’s four (4) recommendations he thought would be the most desirable.
Responding, Chief Mailey stated his belief that traffic enforcement was the way to
go. He advised that the Police Department already has officers working who could
not be in the area constantly but could be a presence and deterrent. Chief Mailey
noted that traffic tickets usually translate to people talking, and when they know the
police are in the neighborhood, they slow down. He indicated that traffic
enforcement would be a quick but temporary fix, noting that as soon as another
complaint is received from elsewhere in the City, officers have to move to
accommodate that need. Chief Mailey stated that a radar traffic enforcement sign
would be a more permanent solution.
Mr. Slavin stated that, in dealing with this issue a couple of times over the past few
years, his approach was to physically fix areas with traffic calming devices to slow
speeds. He noted that members had not explored the idea of restricting traffic
financially by making it more expensive for people to speed in certain areas.
Mr. Slavin advised that he had talked about this briefly with former Police Chief
Paul Bernat, who thought it might be possible to look at the City’s ordinances,
develop an overlay in special enforcement zones, and install appropriate signage.
Mr. Slavin suggested that it could be indicated that there would be an additional fine
for speeding in areas such as Independence Boulevard, North State Street, or
Ann Avenue. He explained that speeders would receive a ticket per the State Code
and an additional fine.
Responding to Chief Mailey, Mr. Slavin stated that the additional fine would be for
the City rather than the State. Mr. Slavin stated that he would review his notes;
however, he recalled that an avenue had been looked at for getting this done.
Mr. Slavin expressed his belief that if people feel a financial impact, they will
remember a particular area where they do not want to get caught again. For example,
he noted that he had received a $75 ticket going through a red light at Route 13 and
Loockerman Street and is not going to let that happen again. Chief Mailey stated that
he agreed with the concept Mr. Slavin proposed; however, he advised that this
change would have to be handled at the State level and had not been approved by the
legislature. Mr. Slavin stated that he would ask legal counsel, stating his belief that
the City could make a special enforcement zone.
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COUNCIL MINUTES HISTORY -
ALTERNATIVE TO SPEED BUMPS - ANN AVENUE PAGE 4
Chief Mailey stated his concern that issuing both a State ticket and a City ticket
would be double jeopardy for one (1) violation; however, he would defer to the City
Solicitor. He stated that the Police Department would be willing to issue such tickets
if this could be done within the confines of the law. Chief Mailey advised members
that Maryland uses electronic speed signs, and tickets are mailed. He noted that he
thought this would also be a useful deterrent.
Mr. Neil noted that the public serves as reporters and informs Council what is
happening, and he expressed his hope that Mr. Bethel would return and advise
members whether any measures used are working. He also asked Mr. Bethel to get
the word out regarding any measures, but not to be one (1) of those who receives a
ticket as a result. Chief Mailey noted that it often happens that the reporting parties
are among the first to get tickets when officers are placed in a neighborhood.
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Chief Mailey advised that he could explore the possibility
of extra funding or grants through the Office of Highway Safety. He stated that he
had sent an email regarding funding to Mr. Larry Windley, Senior Director for
Projects and Economic Development, Senator Tom Carper’s Office, earlier in the
day, and would contact Mr. Windley to see what could be done and report back.
Mr. Anderson agreed with Chief Mailey that signs and enforcement should be tried
first but noted that there may be a need to consider other speed calming measures.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Chief Mailey advised that there were currently no
speed humps in the City. Mr. Anderson indicated his understanding that speed
humps would qualify under the City’s code because they would not be so much of
a problem. Chief Mailey indicated that he thought speed humps would qualify, but
he would have to check the Code. He noted that speed humps were quickly replacing
speed bumps because, even when hit at a high speed, they do not cause any damage
to vehicles. In addition, Chief Mailey explained that the City’s police officers know
where the traffic hazards are around the City and when officers need to slow down.
He noted that he could not speak for the ambulance company because he does not
supervise them.
Mayor Christiansen stated that he thought it possible to remedy the situation on
Ann Avenue by installing strict enforcement signs. He noted that signs could be
installed in other areas of the City as well to give warning that speeding will be
strictly enforced and, if this did not work, another measure could be taken.
Mayor Christiansen stated that he agreed with Mr. Neil, explaining that often when
these concerns are raised at homeowners’ association meetings and police officers
are sent to an area, it is the people within the neighborhood who receive tickets.
Mayor Christiansen advised that he had visited Ann Avenue found it to be like a race
track, similar to other streets in the City lately. He noted that there were a lot of
children and senior citizens in the area and he thought that, with strict enforcement
and warnings from neighbors who received tickets, everyone will slow down.
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COUNCIL MINUTES HISTORY -
ALTERNATIVE TO SPEED BUMPS - ANN AVENUE PAGE 5
Chief Mailey noted that a message could be placed on the Department’s Facebook
page and Twitter feed to let people know there would be intense enforcement in these
areas, which may act as a deterrent.
In response to Mr. Shelton, Mr. Bethel stated that he had observed that those
speeding throughout his neighborhood were mostly outsiders rather than his
neighbors. Mr. Shelton noted that the Mayor had commented that neighbors’
speeding may be deterred when they find out about enforcement there; however,
Mr. Slavin indicated that this may not be the same for people outside the
neighborhood.
Mr. Timothy Sybils, Milford/ Harrington, Delaware, stated that he went to Milford
High School and was kicked out of high school during the first semester of his senior
year and went into the military, noting that a high school diploma was not required
to go into the military at that time. He indicated that he was in the United States
Army Reserves. Mr. Sybils advised that there were identity thieves. Mr. Lewis
explained that the agenda item being discussed was speeding on Ann Avenue and
asked if Mr. Sybils had any comments regarding this item. Responding, Mr. Sybils
advised that his concern was not related to speeding on Ann Avenue.
Mr. Sudler moved to recommend implementing and installing a traffic enforcement
sign on Ann Avenue, as suggested by Police Chief Marvin Mailey, seconded by
Mr. Neil.
Mr. Anderson moved to amend the motion to add the strictly enforced signs that the
Mayor suggested because, by State law, they allow the City to enforce strictly if it so
chooses, seconded by Mr. Sudler.
Mayor Christiansen asked to add an understanding that a traffic study would be done
of Walker Road and Ann Avenue. He noted that a lot of people coming from
Edgewell/Energizer cut through the area, and people coming out of the shopping
center come down Ann Avenue to make a quick exit onto Walker Road.
Mayor Christiansen suggested obtaining a traffic study and a counter that would
indicate the date and time when people are cutting through Ann Avenue. He noted
that he had observed a number of cars from Maryland using Ann Avenue.
Mr. Neil moved to amend the motion to add a traffic study.
At the suggestion of Mr. Slavin, all motions on the floor were withdrawn so that
one (1) comprehensive motion could be made.
Mr. Sudler moved to recommend: a) installing a traffic enforcement sign on
Ann Avenue; b) installing strictly enforced speed limit signs on Ann Avenue; and
c) performing a traffic study on Walker Road and Ann Avenue indicating the timing
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COUNCIL MINUTES HISTORY -
ALTERNATIVE TO SPEED BUMPS - ANN AVENUE PAGE 6
of the lights and the count, date, and time of traffic flow. The motion was seconded
by Mr. Neil.
Mr. Polce questioned who would fund the sign and signage, whether this would come
from the discretionary funds of the Council member who made the motion, and the
general cost of the signs to be put up. Responding, Mr. Slavin stated that the City
usually asks the legislative delegation if they will allocate funding for speed detection
signs from their Community Transportation Funds (CTF), and they had been very
good about doing that. He noted that the City used to have a couple of speed
detection devices at the ready for installation and asked if the City currently had any.
Responding, Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Acting City Manager, stated her understanding
that the City had one (1) device; and it had been requested to be placed on
Crawford Avenue earlier in the day for a study. She stated that she was unsure if the
City had more than one (1) device, and she would have to check to see what could
be done, noting that the legislators could be asked for another sign. Mr. Slavin
advised that he thought the City could obtain a device either way.
At the request of Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Traci McDowell, City Clerk restated the motion.
The Committee recommended: a) installing a traffic enforcement sign on
Ann Avenue; b) installing strictly enforced speed limit signs on Ann Avenue; and
c) performing a traffic study on Walker Road and Ann Avenue indicating the timing
of the lights and the count, date, and time of traffic flow.
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Mr. Cole absent).
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Paj 9
ACTION FORM
PROCEEDING: Utility Committee AGENDA ITEM NO.:
DEPARTMENT OF ORIGIN: Public Works DATE SUBMITTED: 10/13/17
PREPARED BY: Sharon Duca, P.E., Public Works Director/City Engineer
SUBJECT: Americans with Disabilities Act Sidewalk Compliance – Lincoln Street
REFERENCE: CIP- Street, Concrete and Alley Program
RELATED PROJECT: N/A
APPROVALS: City Manager, Controller
EXHIBITS: Exhibit A – Aerial Map
EXPENDITURE REQUIRED: N/A FY 2018 BUDGET: N/A
FUNDING SOURCE (Dept./Page in CIP & Budget): Costs associated with this proposed sidewalk is inclusive to
the approved FY-2017 Street & Alley Program, project number ST1701, account number 147-1800-554.40-31
TIME TABLE: Notice to proceed to be issued within thirty (30) days of Council approval. Project anticipated to
be completed in thirty (30) calendar days.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve the proposed sidewalk orientation to comply with Americans with
Disabilities Act.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The Fiscal Year 2017 Street & Alley Program includes Lincoln Street as a street that is scheduled to be
reconstructed. Staff identified that the northern side of Lincoln Street, near the intersection with Forest
Street has sidewalk that is not compliant with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) as the cross slope does
not meet the standards. It would be impossible to regrade the driveways to meet this requirement. Our
recommendation is to bump out the sidewalk into the road (an example of which exists at Washington Street)
to install new sidewalks. Please refer to the exhibit for the proposed solution. An adjustment to the adjacent
catch basin would be required as well. The road width would be reduced to twenty-six feet (26’). As a result,
parking will only be allowed on one (1) side of the street.
City staff recommends that this proposed sidewalk alignment be approved to comply with ADA regulations.
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Exhibit A
ADA Sidewalk Compliance
Lincoln Street
650
For
est
611
St
716
712
700
INSTALL A NEW
STREET WIDTH WOULD CATCH BASIN, DEMO
INSTALL 5' WIDE SIDEWALK BE REDUCED TO 26' +/- EXISTING CATCH
BUMP OUT, ADJACENT TO PARKING ONLY BASIN AND CONNECT
Lincoln St
INSTALL 5' WIDE SIDEWALK IN NEW CURB ALLOWED ON ONE (1) OUTFALL PIPE TO
ACCORDANCE TO ADA SIDE. ORIGINAL WIDTH EXISTING PIPE
REQUIREMENTS. = 32' +/-
NOT TO SCALE
12
680
Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, i-cubed, Earthstar Geographics,
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AEX, Getmapping, Aerogrid, IGN, IGP,
swisstopo, and the GIS User Community
Date Printed: October 11, 2017
File: m:\gis_data\projects\tech_mxds
\jason_lyon_maps\caf_maps
\caf_william_st_water_replacement
Department: Public Works GIS
City of Dover, Delaware ¯ 0 25 50 Feet
Paj 11
COUNCIL MINUTES HISTORY
CONWELL STREET DISCUSSION
An Excerpt from the Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of August 28, 2017:
The Regular Council Meeting was held on August 28, 2017 at 7:31 p.m. with Council President
Slavin presiding. Council members present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil, Mr. Cole,
Mr. Polce, and Mr. Lindell. Mr. Hare and Mr. Lewis were absent.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT - AUGUST 15, 2017
The Council Committee of the Whole met on August 15, 2017 at 6:00 p.m., with
Council President Slavin presiding. Members of Council present were Mr. Anderson
(arrived at 6:23 p.m.), Mr. Sudler (departed at 6:34 p.m. and returned at 6:40 p.m.), Mr. Neil,
Mr. Cole, Mr. Polce (departed at 6:34 p.m. and returned at 6:35 p.m.), and Mr. Hare.
Mr. Lewis and Mr. Lindell were absent. Mayor Christiansen was also present.
Civilian members present for their Committee meetings were Ms. Arndt (Utility), and
Mr. Shevock and Dr. Stewart (Legislative, Finance, and Administration).
Conwell Street Discussion
Mrs. Sharon Duca, P.E., Public Works Director/City Engineer, reviewed her memo
dated July 28, 2017 regarding Conwell Street Evaluation. She explained that the
Department of Public Works was charged with evaluating Conwell Street in
conjunction with researching the development history, current status, and upgrade
options.
Mr. Sudler asked if there would be another option that would be less complex and
timing consuming, such as a paved alley, or something another level down from a
street with walkways and curb appeal, and drainage. Responding, Mrs. Duca
explained that if Council wanted to pursue the enhancements of this road, technically
deeming it an alley and making the appropriate authentication in that manner would
create the smaller pavement because it would not require the concrete addition. She
stated that it would also give more room within the right-of-way for more natural
swales, etc. to handle the drainage, noting that the concrete sections on a regular road
would make it very difficult and definitely require storm sewer.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mrs. Duca stated that there were a couple of houses on the
front of the street. Mr. Hare noted that this was not a City street. He asked if the
residents wanted to bring it into the City and for the City to take it over. Responding,
Mrs. Duca stated that this was her understanding.
Mr. Hare asked if this would be any different than, for example, if the contractor for
Nottingham Meadows was building houses, did not want to finish the street, and
wanted the City to take it over and finish it. He asked if the City would do that. In
response, Mrs. Duca advised that Conwell Street would be more similar to Cannon
Mill, explaining that the City did have to deal with the roads in that development
because the developer went bankrupt. Mr. Hare asked if there was a developer for
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COUNCIL MINUTES HISTORY - CONWELL STREET DISCUSSION PAGE 2
Conwell Street and Mrs. Duca advised that there was not. Mr. Hare asked who owns
the land. Responding, Mrs. Duca stated that it could be considered no man’s land at
this point, explaining that it was never transferred to the City; therefore, it would be
more likely to still be in Kent County. She explained that technically the land owner
would be the original developer of the College Road Settlement from 1899 because
they never deeded it over to any municipal entity. Mr. Hare asked how staff was
going to determine who owns the land. In response, Mrs. Duca, referring to page 2
of her memo dated July 28, 2017 regarding Conwell Street Evaluation, noted that
other sections of roads that wound up being vacated went through the Superior Court.
Responding to Mr. Slavin, Mrs. Duca stated that it would be difficult to trace the
underlying owner of the road at this point, which, she believed, was the reason it
became a matter of the courts. Mr. Slavin asked if the City had any history regarding
who originally paved the road or who paid to have it paved originally. In response,
Mrs. Duca advised that information regarding the original paving was not part of any
of the research or the plans that staff could find. Responding to Mr. Slavin,
Mrs. Duca informed members that Conwell Street was not a publicly identified road
in terms of Municipal Street Aid (MSA); however, it was in regard to Google and
that type of thing. Mr. Slavin stated his understanding that if the road was not owned
by the City, then it would be a State road. In response, Mrs. Duca indicated that it
would be a State or County road. Mr. Slavin stated that typically in a development,
a developer will build out a development, build out the roads, and then dedicate them
over to the City when they are up to the City’s standards, so that the City does not
inherit those costs. He noted, however, that in the case where the developer went
bankrupt and left the roads sub-standard, the City was forced to take action out of
public safety. Responding, Mrs. Duca stated that those subdivisions were
legitimately within City of Dover limits.
Mr. Neil stated that he thought that this matter was very perplexing and he did not
think that it would get a high priority over existing problems. He advised that his
suggestion would be for the City to send all of the people who signed the petition a
letter basically stating that this is not City land. Mr. Neil noted that there are many
issues dealing with the ownership and the deeding to the City, and that while the City
will look at the process to see what the City can do, he did not think the individuals
should expect it to be done quickly because they signed a petition. He explained that
the City should be gentle, but should educate the people who have asked for help that
this is not an easy question to answer and is not simply moving them up in a priority.
Mr. Neil indicated that a significant amount of work would be going on before
getting to the point of moving this matter up in priority, and he stated that he did not
know how fast the City should be getting to that point.
Mr. Hare, referring to the map entitled “Conwell Street Exhibit,” noted that the
houses on State College Road were labeled “property not annexed into the City,” and
asked if these properties were not in the City. Responding, Mrs. Duca stated that he
was correct. Mr. Hare stated that he did not understand why individuals who live in
the County would request the City to pave the roads for them.
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COUNCIL MINUTES HISTORY - CONWELL STREET DISCUSSION PAGE 3
Mr. Sudler stated that he thought that the owners felt that because it said Conwell
Street, it was a City road, and the main objective was to assess whether or not it is a
City or County road, which had been done. He thanked Mrs. Duca, noting that she
had done a great job. Mr. Sudler stated that there were a few homes on Conwell
Street, but that he wanted to hear from Ms. Ryder, a resident of Conwell Street who
he believed could speak regarding some of the challenges and difficulties.
Mr. Sudler asked if Mr. Hare or anyone else had been on Conwell Street to look at
it, or had rode their vehicle down it and seen the stumps. Responding, Mr. Hare
stated that he had. Mayor Christiansen stated that he had also been out there and had
seen the condition of the street. He advised members that approximately 20 years
ago the City went through this same process and it was determined that the street was
difficult to bring to City standards because it was mostly in the County.
Mayor Christiansen noted that, while he has empathy for the people who live there,
there are streets in the City that are really under duress as well. He stated that he did
not know if a private individual or a consortium of people could get together and
have the street paved as they do in other communities.
Mr. Cole thanked Mrs. Duca for the research and the work that she did regarding this
matter.
Ms. Sandra Ryder, 291 College Road, informed members that her property abuts
Conwell Street and she was under the assumption that because it was named, it was
a road. She stated that the road had never been paved and explained that, with the
problems with the road, people tear their cars up driving on the street. Ms. Ryder
noted that she would accept an alley, a few stones, or anything; however, after
listening to the discussion, she understood that it was a problem. She asked how
much it would be if everyone in the community got together and decided to pave it
themselves and what that would run up against. Responding, Mr. Cole advised
Ms. Ryder that it was not a City road. Ms. Ryder stated that she still felt that while
they are paying taxes something should be done. Mr. Hare stated that Ms. Ryder
might have to check with the County to make sure they do not have a problem with
it, noting that the City would not be giving the permits or anything.
Ms. Ryder stated her understanding that members were basically saying that it is too
big a problem to be addressed at the moment because there are too many legalities.
Responding, Mr. Cole explained that he did not think that members were saying it
was too big of a problem, but that there were legalities and the control of the right-of-
way and the road.
In response to Mr. Hare’s question regarding who owns the property, Ms. Ryder
stated that she owns the property from the front to 100 feet in the back; however, she
noted that she did not have any idea who owned the street. She explained that she
thought that the City or the County owned the street and, since it was named, she
thought it had to be a street.
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COUNCIL MINUTES HISTORY - CONWELL STREET DISCUSSION PAGE 4
Mr. Sudler asked if it was standard procedure for the City to put a street sign name
on streets that it does not own. Responding, Mr. Slavin explained that if there was
a street sign on Conwell Street, the City does not know the origin of the street sign
and, if the City did inadvertently place the street sign, it does not transfer legal
ownership of the street to the City. He indicated that he thought that the underlying
question was if someone could do the deed research to figure out who the underlying
owner of the street is, noting that if it is a County street, the City could go to the
County and ask them to improve it, and if it is a City street, the City would have
responsibilities.
Mr. Neil stated that he did not know how much Ms. Ryder pays, but that he pays
more in County taxes than he does in City taxes, so he thought that the County should
take this one over.
Mr. Anderson, referring to the map entitled “Conwell Street Exhibit,” asked if he was
correct in his understanding that half of the properties surrounding Conwell Street
were in the City, half were not, and the City did not know the ownership of the street.
Responding, Mr. Cole stated that this was correct. Mr. Anderson asked if it would
be appropriate to make a motion for the City to do the research to find out who owns
it.
Mrs. Duca clarified that the City had done the plan and deed research. She informed
members that deeds are not developed for street right-of-ways; however, there is the
original plot plan for the development. She reiterated that the best example would
be similar to a defunct subdivision where the owner has gone bankrupt. Mrs. Duca
advised members that this matter would involve some movement of the County or
the City to take the street over because the ownership of it basically left with the
original developer.
Mr. Cole stated, for clarification, that the City is not looking to take this street over,
and asked if going through the County would be residents’ best avenue to find out
what they need to do if they wanted to take it upon themselves to pave it.
Responding, Mrs. Duca stated that the County and the Delaware Department of
Transportation (DelDOT) would be the next steps.
Mr. Sudler asked, as a point of clarity, if Mrs. Duca was saying that the City did not
want to take the street over, explaining that he thought that she was saying that if the
City were to do it, these would be the steps that the City would have to take. In
response, Mrs. Duca stated that she was not saying that the City did not want to do
it, she was just trying to clarify that there are no actual deeds for the right-of-way.
Mr. Anderson moved to recommend referring the matter to staff to find more
information on the ownership of the street, seconded by Mr. Sudler.
Mr. Hare noted that this was not City property and the people who live around it are
not in the City. He indicated that he was at a loss as to why the City would proceed,
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COUNCIL MINUTES HISTORY - CONWELL STREET DISCUSSION PAGE 5
explaining that he could find a lot of properties that are outside of the City that the
City could also research and possibly work on. Mr. Hare asked if the people who live
around the property wanted to be annexed into the City and pay City taxes, etc., if the
City proceeds. He stated that he felt that the County should be doing something, not
the City, since it is not City property.
Mr. Sudler stated that he thought the motion was just a point on information so that
members would be able to make an educated decision, explaining that it was his
understanding that the City did not currently know who owns the property. He noted
that although it appeared that the City does not own the property or have any
responsibility, he thought that out of a genuine consideration for their Dover
constituent, members could at least find out who owns it and possibly even send a
letter, or partner with the constituent to send a letter, to the County or State asking
for financial assistance or for them to make the proper repairs to bring the street up
to code. Mr. Sudler stated that this was the same street that a lady was recently killed
on, noting that it is dark and a safety issue. He expressed his opinion that this matter
was beyond just dollars and was about public safety in the community and for the
constituents of Dover.
Mr. Slavin indicated that he thought that staff had done due diligence in collecting
the information and that, based on that research, a legal opinion was now needed to
advise members regarding ownership and what the City’s legal options are in regard
to this matter. He stated that he thought that it was time to escalate this matter and
send it to legal counsel for an opinion.
Mr. Anderson, referring to his motion to recommend referring the matter to staff to
find more information on the ownership of the street, advised members that he meant
staff in the broadest sense and most appropriate level, which would include the City’s
legal counsel. He indicated that referring it to legal counsel may be the next step;
however, he would leave that decision to staff’s professional discretion.
Mr. Neil asked that a fiscal note be provided regarding what it will cost to do this
research, explaining that he thought members owed it to the taxpayers to find out.
Responding, Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Acting City Manager, stated that she would have
to find out how long it would take to do the research to be able to explain how much
it would cost. Mr. Neil stated his understanding that it would not only take normal
staff time, but professional time to complete this research. In response, Mrs. Mitchell
stated that Mr. Neil was correct and that staff would have to talk to Deputy City
Solicitor William Pepper to determine whether he would have to have staff research
it as well. She explained that City staff had done some research but might need his
help.
Mr. Cole asked Mr. Anderson and Mr. Sudler if they would be amenable to
withdrawing the motion to recommend referring the matter to staff to find more
information on the ownership of the street, and instead ask for a legal opinion to be
provided at the next Utility Committee meeting. Responding, Mr. Sudler stated that
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COUNCIL MINUTES HISTORY - CONWELL STREET DISCUSSION PAGE 6
he would be willing to rescind his second to the motion because he was in agreement
with getting a legal opinion, as recommended by Mr. Cole. Mr. Anderson stated that
he did not really think that the motion was being changed; however, if members
wanted to change the wording, he was okay with it because the result of the motions
would be the same.
The motion to recommend referring the matter to staff to find more information on
the ownership of the street was withdrawn.
The Committee recommended that a legal opinion regarding the ownership of
Conwell Street and the City’s legal options in regard to this matter be provided at the
next Utility Committee meeting.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Anderson and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Hare and
Lewis absent).
/dd
S:\RESEARCH\CONWELL STREET DISCUSSION\Council Minutes History - Conwell Street Discussion.wpd
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CITY OF DOVER PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2017-14
1 BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN
2 COUNCIL MET:
3
4 That Chapter 30, Code of Conduct and Ethic Commission, be amended by inserting the text indicated in
5 blue font, deleting the text indicated in red strikeout, and moving the text indicated in green font, as
6 follows:
7
8 Chapter 30 - CODE OF CONDUCT STANDARDS OF ETHICAL CONDUCT AND ETHICS
9 COMMISSION
10 ARTICLE I. - IN GENERAL
11 Secs. 30-1—30-30. - Reserved.
12 ARTICLE II. - CODE OF CONDUCT
13
14 ARTICLE I. – IN GENERAL
15
16 Sec. 30-31. - Applicability; statement of policy.
17
18 (a) Applicability. This article chapter shall be applicable to all elected and appointed officials and all
19 employees of the city.
20 Sec. 30-2. – Statement of intent and purpose.
21 (ba) Statement of policyIntent. The proper operation of democratic government requires that public
22 officials and employees be independent, impartial, and responsible to the people; that
23 governmental decisions and policies be made in the proper channels of the governmental structure;
24 that public office not be used for personal gain; and that the public has confidence in the integrity
25 of its government. In recognition of these goals, there is hereby established a code of conduct for
26 all city employees and officials. The purpose of this code of conduct is to establish ethical
27 standards of conduct for all such officials and employees by setting forth those acts or actions that
28 are incompatible with the best interests of the city and by directing disclosure by such officials and
29 employees of private financial or other interests in matters affecting the city. . It is the intent of
30 the city that all elected and appointed officials and all employees of the city adhere to high
31 levels of ethical conduct, honesty, integrity and accountability to assure that the public has
32 confidence in all aspects of city government and the city officials that exercise discretionary
33 powers. These standards of ethical conduct are intended to uphold the public trust in the
34 persons in positions of public responsibility who are acting for the benefit of the public. All
35 elected and appointed officials and all employees of the city shall comply with both the letter
36 and the spirit of the standards of ethical conduct and strive to avoid situations that create
37 impropriety or the appearance of impropriety. The standards define and discourage certain
38 actions that may create impropriety or the appearance of impropriety that undermine public
39 trust in elected and appointed public officials and employees.
40 (b) Purpose. The standards of ethical conduct should promote public confidence in the
41 integrity of city officials; state principles of conduct and ethics which are to be applied in
42 public service; inform the public of the standards to which their city officials are expected to
43 adhere; and help motivate city officials and public employees to pursue productive conduct
44 and ethical ideals which exceed minimum standards. The city council finds and declares as
45 matters of public policy goals and objectives for all city employees and elected and appointed
46 officials, the following:
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47 (1) Public trust. In our democratic form of government, the conduct of officials and
48 employees of the city must hold the respect and confidence of the people. They must,
49 therefore, avoid conduct which is in violation of their public trust or which creates a justifiable
50 impression among the public that such trust is being violated.
51 (2) Standards. To ensure propriety and to preserve public confidence, officials and employees of the
52 city must have the benefit of specific standards to guide their conduct and disciplinary
53 mechanisms to guarantee uniform maintenance of those standards. Some standards of this type
54 are so vital to government that violation thereof should subject the violator to criminal
55 penalties.
56 (3) Public service. In our democratic form of government, it is both necessary and desirable that all
57 citizens should be encouraged to assume public office and employment, and that, therefore, the
58 activities of officersofficials and employees of the city should not be unduly circumscribed.
59 (4) Performance of duty. Elected city officials are obligated to uphold the fundamental legal
60 principles of our system of government, as set forth in the United States Constitution, the state
61 constitution, and the city Charter, as well as all applicable provisions of federal, state and local
62 law and court decisions. They are bound to do so, and the failure to so act shall constitute
63 malfeasance in office.
64 (5) Fairness. City officials and employees shall strive for the highest standard of fairness in all of
65 their activities and shall not grant any special consideration, treatment, or advantage to any
66 citizen beyond that which is available to every other citizen.
67 (6) Use of private information. In the course of their official responsibilities, city officials and
68 employees are often privy to categories of information which are of a private nature and are
69 legally protected from public disclosure. City officials and employees shall maintain the
70 privacy of such information, and they shall not take advantage of such information for personal
71 gain, or the personal gain of friends or family.
72 (Code 1981, § 2-8; Ord. of 7-13-1998)
73 Sec. 30-3. – Acknowledgment of policies; required disclosures, and required annual training.
74 In order for the mayor, councilmembers, mayoral and council appointees, and city employees to
75 better serve the constituents of the City of Dover in an open, transparent fashion and to further be
76 held accountable, the following actions shall be taken by each of the designated persons:
77
78 (a) Acknowledgment of policies. Each elected and appointed official and all city employees
79 shall be furnished copies of Chapter 30 – Standards of Ethical Conduct and Ethics
80 Commission, either electronically or, if requested, in hard copy, before entering upon the
81 duties of their office or employment and shall sign a written acknowledgment of receipt of
82 the copy. The documents shall be read, reviewed, and signed by all appointees by the time
83 of their appointment or re-appointment.
84
85 (b) Disclosure statementFinancial disclosure report. Any city employee or elected or appointed
86 official who has a financial interest in any private enterprise which is subject to the
87 regulatory jurisdiction of, or does business with, any city agency (and any city official who
88 has a financial interest in any private enterprise which is subject to the regulatory
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89 jurisdiction of, or does business with, the city agency on which he serves as an appointee)
90 shall file a financial disclosure report with the ethics commission a written statement fully
91 disclosing the same. Such disclosure shall be confidential and the ethics commission shall
92 not release such disclosed information, except as may be necessary for the enforcement of
93 this articlechapter. The filing of such financial disclosure statementreport shall be a
94 condition of commencing and continuing employment or appointed status with the city.
95 The financial disclosure report shall be submitted by August 1st of each calendar year.
96 [Moved from Sec. 30-34-Established, (d) Disclosure statement]
97
98 (c) Disclosure of interest in legislation.
99
100 (1) A councilman who has a financial or other private interest in any legislation shall
101 disclose on the records of the council or other appropriate authority the nature and
102 extent of such interest. This provision shall not apply if the councilman disqualifies
103 himself from voting on such legislation.
104 (2) Any other city official or employee who has a financial or other private interest in
105 any legislation and who participates in discussion with or gives an official opinion to
106 the council shall disclose on the records of the council or other appropriate
107 authority the nature and extent of such interest.
108 (3) Any city employee or city officer who has a financial interest in any private
109 enterprise which is subject to the regulatory jurisdiction of, or does business with,
110 any city agency, shall file with the ethics commission a written statement fully
111 disclosing the same. Such disclosure shall be confidential and the ethics commission
112 shall not release such disclosed information, except as may be necessary for the
113 enforcement of this subchapter. The filing of such disclosure statement shall be a
114 condition of commencing and continuing employment or appointed status with the
115 city.
116
117 (4) Required annual training. All city employees and elected and appointed officials shall
118 undergo and receive annual training on the City of Dover's ethics policies and procedures.
119
120 Sec. 30-324. - Definitions.
121 The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the meanings ascribed
122 to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
123 Close relative means a person's parents, spouse, children (natural or adopted), and siblings of the
124 whole and half-blood.
125 Commission and ethics commission mean the city ethics commission as established by this chapter.
126 Compensation means any money, thing of value, or any other economic benefit of any kind or
127 nature whatsoever conferred on or received by any person in return for services rendered or to be
128 rendered by the official or employee, or by another.
129 Employee includes all persons who receive compensation as an employee of the city or a city
130 agency, and shall not include persons that are elected or appointed to serve as mayor, city
131 councilmember or a member of any city committee, commission or board, whether paid or unpaid.
132 Financial interest. A person has financial interest in a private enterprise if:
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133 (1) He has a legal or equitable ownership interest in the enterprise of more than ten percent (one
134 percent or more in the case of a corporation the stock of which is regularly traded on an
135 established securities market);
136 (2) He is associated with the enterprise and received from the enterprise during the last calendar
137 year, or might reasonably be expected to receive from the enterprise during the current or the
138 next calendar year, income in excess of $5,000.00 for services as an employee, officer, director,
139 trustee, or independent contractor; or
140 (3) He is a creditor of a private enterprise in an amount equal to ten percent or more of the debt of
141 that enterprise (one percent or more in the case of a corporation the securities of which are
142 regularly traded on an established securities market).
143 Matter means an application, petition, request, business dealing, contract, subcontract, or any other
144 transaction of any sort with the city.
145 Official means any elected or appointed official of the city and all members of any committee,
146 commission or board appointed by the mayor of the city or appointed by the city council.
147 Official responsibility means any direct administrative or operating authority at any level, either
148 exercisable alone or with others, either personally or through subordinates, to approve, disapprove,
149 recommend or otherwise direct action on behalf of the city.
150 Personal or private interest means an interest in a matter which tends to impair the independent
151 judgment of an official or employee in the performance of his duties with respect to that matter.
152 Private enterprise means any activity conducted by any person, whether conducted for profit or not
153 for profit, and includes the ownership of real or personal property. The term "private enterprise" does
154 not include any activity of the city, of any political subdivision, or of any agency, authority, or
155 instrumentality thereof.
156 Public official. All elected and appointed officials and all employees of the city.
157 Sec. 30-5 – 30-19. – Reserved.
158 (Code 1981, § 2-9; Ord. of 7-13-1998)
159 ARTICLE II. – STANDARDS OF ETHICAL CONDUCT.
160 Sec. 30-20. – Established. High ethical standards among public officials and employees are
161 essential to gain and maintain the confidence of the people, because such confidence is essential to
162 the conduct of free government. Public officials and employees are agents of the people and hold
163 office for the benefit of the public. They are bound to observe in their official acts the highest
164 standards of morality and to discharge faithfully and impartially the duties of their offices,
165 regardless of personal considerations, recognizing that the public interest must be their primary
166 concern. Their conduct in both their official and private affairs should be above reproach. These
167 standards of ethical conduct are adopted in order to secure this desired high level of public trust,
168 ensure the impartiality of public officials and employees, and impose standards of accountability.
169 (a) General responsibilities of officials and employees.
170 (1) Officials and employees have the common obligation of serving the public. In performing
171 their duties, they shall treat the public and each other with respect, concern, and
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172 responsiveness, recognizing that their common goal of exceptional public service can only
173 be achieved by working together. Disputes that arise among public servants shall be
174 resolved at the lowest possible level; keeping in mind that public money spent on resolving
175 these disputes is money not spent on important public needs.
176 (2) Officials and employees shall treat their position as a public trust, with a fiduciary duty to
177 use the powers and resources of public office only to advance the public interest and not to
178 obtain personal benefits or pursue private interests.
179 (3) Officials and employees shall conduct themselves in a manner that justifies the confidence
180 placed in them by the people, at all times maintaining the integrity and discharging
181 ethically the high responsibilities of public service.
182 (4) Full disclosure of real or potential conflicts of interest shall be a guiding principle for
183 determining appropriate conduct. At all times, reasonable efforts shall be made to avoid
184 undue influence and abuse of office in public service.
185 (1)(5) No official or employee may request or receive, and no person may offer any money,
186 thing of value or promise thereof, other than any city pay received, that is conditioned
187 upon or given in exchange for promised performance of an official act.
188 [Moved from Sec. 30-34. – Established]
189 (a)(b) Appearance of violation. Each city employee and official shall endeavor to pursue a course
190 of conduct which will not raise suspicion among the public that he is engaging in acts which
191 are in violation of his public trust and which will not reflect unfavorably upon the city and its
192 government.
193 (c) Private interest; gifts. No city employee or official shall have any interest in any private
194 enterprise, nor shall be he incur any obligation of any nature which is in substantial conflict
195 with the proper performance of his duties in the public interest. No city employee or official
196 shall accept other employment, any compensation, gift, payment of expenses or any other thing
197 of monetary value under circumstances in which such acceptance may result in any of the
198 following:
199 (1) Impairment of independence of judgment in the exercise of official duties;
200 (2) An undertaking to give preferential treatment to any person;
201 (3) The making of a governmental decision outside official channels; or
202 (4) Any adverse effect on the confidence of the public in the integrity of the government of
203 the city.
204 (d) Interest in private enterprise. No city employee or official shall acquire a financial interest in
205 any private enterprise which he has reason to believe may be directly involved in decisions to
206 be made by him in an official capacity on behalf of the city.
207
208 Sec. 30-33. -–
209 (e) Prohibitions relating to conflicts of interest. No councilman or other official or employee,
210 whether paid or unpaid, shall engage in any business or transaction or shall have a financial or
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211 other personal interest, direct or indirect, which is incompatible with the proper discharge of his
212 official duties in the public interest or would tend to impair his independence of judgment or
213 action in the performance of his official duties. Personal as distinguished from financial interest
214 includes an interest arising from blood or marriage relationships or close business or political
215 association
216 Provided, that upon request from any person with official responsibility with respect to the
217 matter, any such person who has such a personal or private interest may nevertheless respond to
218 questions concerning any such matter.
219 (a1) Restrictions on exercise of official authority.
220 (1)a. Prohibited participation. No city employee or official may participate on behalf of
221 the city in the review or disposition of any matter pending before the city in which he has a
222 personal or private interest, provided that, upon request from any person with official
223 responsibility with respect to the matter, any such person who has such a personal or private
224 interest may nevertheless respond to questions concerning any such matter. A personal or
225 private interest in a matter is an interest which tends to impair a person's independence of
226 judgment in the performance of his duties with respect to that matter.
227 (2)b. Impairment of judgment. A person has an interest which tends to impair his
228 independence of judgment in the performance of his duties with respect to any matter when:
229 a.i. Any action or inaction with respect to the matter would result in a financial
230 benefit or detriment to accrue to the person or a close relative to a greater extent than
231 such benefit or detriment would accrue to others who are members of the same class
232 or group of persons; or
233 bii. The person or a close relative has a financial interest in a private enterprise
234 which enterprise or interest would be affected by any action or inaction on a matter to
235 a lesser or greater extent than like enterprises or other interests in the same enterprise.
236 (3)c. Statutory responsibility. In any case where a person has a statutory responsibility with
237 respect to action or inaction on any matter where he has a personal or private interest and there
238 is no provision for the delegation of such responsibility to another person, the person may
239 exercise responsibility with respect to such matter, provided that, promptly after becoming
240 aware of such conflict of interest, he files a written statement with the ethics commission, fully
241 disclosing the personal or private interest and explaining why it is not possible to delegate
242 responsibility for the matter to another person.
243 (b2) Restrictions on representing another's interest before the city.
244 (1)a. Prohibited. No city employee or official may represent or otherwise assist any private
245 enterprise with respect to any matter before the city.
246 (2)b. Exception. This subsection (b) shall not preclude any city employee or official from
247 appearing before the city or otherwise assisting any private enterprise with respect to any
248 matter in the exercise of his official duties.
249 (c3) Restriction on contracting with the city.
250 (1)a. Prohibited. No city employee or official shall benefit from any contract with the city, nor
251 solicit any contract, and shall not enter into any contract with the city (other than an
252 employment contract).
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253 (2)b. Ownership of enterprise. No private enterprise in which a city employee or official has a
254 legal or equitable ownership of more than ten percent (more than one percent in the case of a
255 corporation the stock of which is regularly traded on an established securities market) shall
256 enter into any contract with the city (other than an employment contract) unless such contract
257 was made or let after public notice and competitive bidding.
258 (df) Postemployment restrictions. No person who has served as a city employee or official shall
259 represent or otherwise assist any private enterprise on any matter involving the city, for a period of
260 two years after termination of his employment or elected or appointed status with the city, if he
261 gave an opinion, conducted an investigation or otherwise was directly and materially responsible for
262 such matter in the course of his official duties as a city employee or official, nor shall any former
263 city employee or official disclose confidential information gained by reason of his public position,
264 nor shall he otherwise use such information for personal gain or benefit.
265 (eg) Unauthorized disclosure of confidential information. No person shall disclose any information
266 required to be maintained confidential by the ethics commission under section 30-34(d)30-3(b), 30-
267 35(b)30-73 or 30-7330-74(b).
268 (fh) Abuse of office.
269 (1) Political contributions. No elected city official shall agree to sponsor legislation, or to
270 influence in any manner the formulation or passage of legislation, in exchange for political
271 contributions or promises thereof.
272 (2) Substantial interest. No elected city official shall vote for, or promote in any manner
273 whatsoever, legislation affecting any subject matter in which he has a substantial interest. Any
274 such interest shall be disclosed by said elected official prior to a vote on any such legislation,
275 and said elected official shall vote "abstain" when called upon to vote.
276 (3) Use of city property. No city official or employee shall request or permit the use of city-
277 owned vehicles, equipment, materials, or property for personal convenience or profit, except
278 when such services are available to the public generally or are provided for the use of such
279 official or employee in the conduct of official business as a matter of municipal policy.
280 (4) Personal gain. No city official or employee shall utilize the influence of his office or position
281 for personal pecuniary gain, or to avoid the legal consequences of his personal conduct.
282 (gi) Criminal sanctions.
283 (1) Penalties. Any person who knowingly or willfully violates any provision of this section shall
284 be guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable for each such violation by imprisonment of not more
285 than one year and by a fine as provided for in Appendix F—Fees and Fines.
286 (2) Time limitations. A prosecution for a violation of this section shall be subject to the time
287 limitations of 11 Del. C. § 205.
288 (hj) Contracts voidable by court action. In addition to any other penalty provided by law, any contract
289 entered into by any city agency in violation of this chapter shall be voidable by the city agency;
290 provided that in determining whether any court action should be taken to void such a contract
291 pursuant to this subsection, the city agency shall consider the interests of innocent third parties who
292 may be damaged thereby. Any court action to void any transaction must be initiated within 30 days
293 after the city agency involved has, or should have, knowledge of such violation.
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294 Sec. 30-34. - Established.
295 (a) Appearance of violation. Each city employee and official shall endeavor to pursue a course of
296 conduct which will not raise suspicion among the public that he is engaging in acts which are in
297 violation of his public trust and which will not reflect unfavorably upon the city and its government.
298 (b) Private interest; gifts. No city employee or official shall have any interest in any private
299 enterprise, nor shall be incur any obligation of any nature which is in substantial conflict with the
300 proper performance of his duties in the public interest. No city employee or official shall accept
301 other employment, any compensation, gift, payment of expenses or any other thing of monetary
302 value under circumstances in which such acceptance may result in any of the following:
303 (1) Impairment of independence of judgment in the exercise of official duties;
304 (2) An undertaking to give preferential treatment to any person;
305 (3) The making of a governmental decision outside official channels; or
306 (4) Any adverse effect on the confidence of the public in the integrity of the government of the city.
307 (c) Interest in private enterprise. No city employee or official shall acquire a financial interest in any
308 private enterprise which he has reason to believe may be directly involved in decisions to be made
309 by him in an official capacity on behalf of the city.
310 (d) Disclosure statement. Any city employee or official who has a financial interest in any private
311 enterprise which is subject to the regulatory jurisdiction of, or does business with, any city agency
312 (and any city official who has a financial interest in any private enterprise which is subject to the
313 regulatory jurisdiction of, or does business with, the city agency on which he serves as an
314 appointee) shall file with the ethics commission a written statement fully disclosing the same. Such
315 disclosure shall be confidential and the ethics commission shall not release such disclosed
316 information, except as may be necessary for the enforcement of this article. The filing of such
317 disclosure statement shall be a condition of commencing and continuing employment or appointed
318 status with the city. [Moved to Sec. 30-3 – Acknowledgment of policies…(b) Financial
319 disclosures]
320 (ek) Private gain. No city employee or official shall use his public office to secure unwarranted
321 privileges, private advancement or gain.
322 (fl) Confidential information; prohibited activity. No city employee or official shall engage in any
323 activity beyond the scope of his public position which might reasonably be expected to require or
324 induce him to disclose confidential information acquired by him by reason of his public position.
325 (gm) Disclosure of information. No city employee or official shall, beyond the scope of his public
326 position, disclose confidential information gained by reason of his public position, nor shall he
327 otherwise use such information for personal gain or benefit.
328 (n) Ex Parte Communications. No official or employee shall encourage, make or accept any ex
329 parte or other unilateral application or communication that excludes the interests of other
330 parties in a matter under consideration when such application or communication is designed
331 to influence official decision or conduct of the official or other officials, employees or agencies
332 in order to obtain a more favored treatment or special consideration to advance the personal
333 or private interests of himself or herself or others. The purpose of this provision is to
334 guarantee that all interested parties to any matter shall have equal opportunity to express and
335 represent their interests.
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336 Any written ex parte communication received by an official or employee in matters where
337 all interested parties should have equal opportunity for a hearing shall be made part of the
338 record by the recipient.
339 Any oral ex parte communication received under such conditions should be written down
340 in substance by the recipient and also made a part of the record.
341 A communication concerning only the status of a pending matter is not regarded as an ex
342 parte communication.
343 (ho) Sexual favors. No city employee or official, in the course of his public responsibilities, shall use
344 the granting of sexual favors as a condition, either explicit or implicit, for an individual's favorable
345 treatment by that person or a city agency.
346 (Code 1981, § 2-11; Ord. of 7-13-1998)
347 Sec. 30-21 – 30-29. – Reserved.
348 Sec. 30-35. - Waivers of restrictions and advisory opinions.
349 (a) Authority of ethics commission. Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 30-33 and 30-34, upon
350 the written request of any city agency or of any individual who is or was a city employee or city
351 official, the ethics commission may grant a waiver to the specific prohibitions contained therein if
352 the ethics commission determines that the literal application of such prohibition in a particular case
353 is not necessary to achieve the public purposes of this chapter or would result in an undue hardship
354 on any employee or official. Any such waiver may be granted only by written decision of the ethics
355 commission. Any person who acts in good faith reliance upon any such waiver decision shall not be
356 subject to discipline or other sanction hereunder with respect to the matters covered by the waiver
357 decision, provided there was a full disclosure to the ethics commission of all material facts
358 necessary for the waiver decision.
359 (b) Waiver information confidential; exceptions. Any application for a waiver, any proceeding and
360 any decision with respect thereto shall be maintained confidential by the ethics commission,
361 provided that:
362 (1) Applicant's request. Public disclosure shall be made by the ethics commission upon the
363 written request of the applicant;
364 (2) Violations. The ethics commission may make such public disclosure as it determines is
365 required in connection with the prosecution of any violation of this chapter;
366 (3) Evidence of crime. The ethics commission shall report to appropriate federal, state and/or city
367 authorities substantial evidence of any criminal violation which may come to its attention; and
368 (4) Public record. In the event that a waiver is granted, the waiver decision and the record of all
369 proceedings relating thereto shall be open to public inspection.
370 (c) Advisory opinion authorized. Upon the written request of any city employee or official, the ethics
371 commission may issue an advisory opinion as to the applicability of this chapter to any particular
372 fact or situation. Any person who acts in good faith reliance upon any such advisory opinion shall
373 not be subject to discipline or other sanction hereunder with respect to the matters covered by the
374 advisory opinion, provided there was a full disclosure to the ethics commission of all material facts
375 necessary for the advisory opinion.
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376 (d) Advisory opinion confidential; exceptions. Any application for an advisory opinion, any
377 proceeding and any decision with respect thereto shall be maintained confidential by the ethics
378 commission, provided that:
379 (1) Applicant's request. Public disclosure shall be made by the ethics commission upon the
380 written request of the applicant;
381 (2) Violations. The ethics commission may make such public disclosure as it determines is
382 required in connection with the prosecution of any violation of this article; and
383 (3) Evidence of crime. The ethics commission shall report to appropriate federal, state and/or city
384 authorities substantial evidence of any criminal violation which may come to its attention.
385 (Code 1981, § 2-12; Ord. of 7-13-1998)
386 Secs. 30-36—30-70. - Reserved.
387
388 ARTICLE III. - ETHICS COMMISSION
389
390 Sec. 30-71. - Established; composition; removal; terms of office; vacancies; chairperson; quorum;
391 compensation; legal counsel.
392
393 (a) Established; composition; removal. The city ethics commission is hereby established to administer
394 and implement this chapter. The ethics commission shall consist of five members appointed by the
395 mayor and confirmed by the city council. No member of the commission shall hold any elected or
396 appointed office under the government of the United States or the state, county, or city. Members of
397 the ethics commission may be removed by the mayor, with the concurrence of the city council, for
398 substantial neglect of duty, gross misconduct in office or a violation of this chapter.
399 (b) Terms of office; vacancies. A member of the ethics commission shall be appointed for a term of
400 office of five years and until his successor has been appointed and has qualified. The members shall
401 be appointed for staggered terms of office, and until their successors have been appointed. When a
402 vacancy occurs in the membership of the ethics commission, it shall be filled by appointment for the
403 unexpired portion of the term in the same manner as the original appointment.
404 (c) Chairperson; quorum. The ethics commission shall elect a chairperson from among its
405 membership. Three members of the ethics commission shall constitute a quorum and, if a quorum is
406 present, a vacancy on the ethics commission shall not impair the right of the remaining members to
407 exercise all the powers of the ethics commission. Disciplinary hearings may be conducted and
408 sanctions may be imposed only by the affirmative action of at least three members; otherwise, the
409 ethics commission may delegate authority to the chairperson to act for the ethics commission
410 between meetings.
411 (d) Compensation. Members of the ethics commission shall receive no compensation.
412 (e) Legal counsel. The city solicitor shall provide legal counsel to the ethics commission and shall be
413 the legal representative of the ethics commission in connection with its duties hereunder, on a case-
414 by-case basis, or determine that outside counsel is needed and obtain such outside counsel for a
415 particular matter.
416 (Code 1981, § 2-13; Ord. of 7-13-1998; Ord. No. 2010-23, 8-23-2010)
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417 Sec. 30-72. - Powers and duties.
418 (a) The powers and duties of the ethics commission shall be:
419 (1) Rules of conductStandards of ethical conduct. To recommend to the mayor and council, from
420 time to time, such rules of conduct for public employees and officials as it shall deem
421 appropriate.
422 (2) Advisory opinions. To issue written advisory opinions, upon the request of any city employee
423 or official, as to the applicability of this chapter to any particular factual situation.
424 (3) Referrals to solicitor. To refer to the city solicitor for investigation any alleged violation of
425 this chapter and, after notice and hearing, to recommend such disciplinary action as it may
426 deem appropriate to such appropriate official or agency as the ethics commission shall
427 determine, or to take such other disciplinary action as authorized by section 30-73(dp) or other
428 provisions of the city Charter or this Code. The ethics commission may dismiss, without
429 reference to the city solicitor, any complaint which the ethics commission determines is
430 frivolous or fails to state a violation.
431 (4) Report of crimes. To report to the appropriate federal, state or city authorities any substantial
432 evidence of a violation of any criminal law which may come to its attention in connection with
433 any proceeding, whether advisory or disciplinary.
434 (5) Records. To maintain a file of its proceedings, waiver decisions and advisory opinions with a
435 view toward achieving consistency of opinions and recommendations subject to the
436 confidentiality requirements of sections 30-3574(d) and 30-73(ht).
437 (6) Procedures. To follow the procedural rules specified in section 30-73 and to establish such
438 other procedural rules as shall be consistent with the rules prescribed therein.
439 (7) Witnesses, evidence. To subpoena witnesses, compel their attendance and testimony,
440 administer oaths and affirmations, take evidence and require, by subpoena, the production of
441 books, papers, records or other evidence needed for the performance of the ethics commission's
442 duties or exercise of its powers.
443 (8) Assistance to city personnel. To provide assistance to any city employee, official or agency in
444 administering the provisions of this chapter.
445 (9) Provide information. To prepare any necessary reports and studies to advance the purpose of
446 this chapter, to provide any necessary materials explaining the duties of individuals covered by
447 this chapter, and to supply instructions and public information materials to facilitate
448 compliance with, and enforcement of, this chapter.
449 (10) Request city agencies for assistance. To request appropriate city agencies to provide such
450 professional assistance as it may require in the discharge of its duties.
451 (Code 1981, § 2-14; Ord. of 7-13-1998)
452 Sec. 30-73. -– Rules of procedure; Ccomplaints; hearings; dispositions.
453 (a) (a) Any person, either personally or on behalf of an organization or governmental body,
454 may file a sworn complaint for the ethics commission with the city clerk. The complaint
455 must be in writing, be signed, and show the address of the person who submitted it. The
456 complaint must state that, to the best of the person's knowledge, information, and belief
457 formed after reasonable reflection, the information in the complaint is true. The
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458 complaint must describe the facts that constitute the violation of the standards of ethical
459 conduct in sufficient detail so that the ethics commission and the person who is the
460 subject of the complaint can reasonably be expected to understand the nature of any
461 offense that is being alleged. The commission may request any additional information
462 deemed necessary to screen the complaint or to render a decision. No complaints shall be
463 accepted or considered which relate to actions that took place more than one (1) year
464 prior to the date of filing. The individual filing the sworn complaint has sixty (60) days
465 from the date that the issue is brought to his or her attention to file a complaint.
466 (b) After the sworn complaint has been filed, none of the parties or their representatives may
467 communicate on an ex parte basis with any commission members pertaining to the
468 complaint. All communications pertaining to the complaint shall be submitted to the city
469 clerk.
470 (c) Within seven (7) days of receiving a sworn complaint the city clerk shall send copies of the
471 complaint to each member of the ethics commission, the city solicitor, and the official or
472 officials against whom such complaint has been filed. Hereinafter, the complaining party
473 shall be referred to as the "complainant" and the official against whom a complaint has
474 been lodged shall be referred to as the "respondent."
475 (d) The commission recognizes that distribution to the public of a sworn complaint prior to
476 screening by the commission as required below could harm the reputation of an innocent
477 person and is contrary to the public interest; therefore, the public release of the
478 complaint is prohibited until the screening process has been completed. The commission
479 shall consult in confidence to screen the complaint within fourteen (14) days of receiving
480 the complaint. The commission may immediately dismiss a complaint if:
481 (1) It has no jurisdiction; or
482 (2) The alleged violation, if true, would not constitute a violation of the standards of
483 ethical conduct; or
484 (3) The alleged violation is a minor or de minimis violation; or
485 (4) The complaint is, on its face, frivolous, groundless, or brought for purposes of
486 harassment; or
487 (5) The matter has become moot because the person who is the subject of the complaint
488 is no longer an officer, official or employee; or
489 (6) The respondent had obtained an advisory opinion under section 30-74(c) permitting
490 the conduct; or
491 (7) The appointing authority of the respondent has already taken action as a result of
492 finding a violation and the commission believes the action was appropriate.
493 (e) In issues regarding standards of ethical conduct violations, the enforcement process is
494 intended to be corrective rather than remedial unless the violation is a repeated offense.
495 In the event the ethics commission determines a standards of ethical conduct violation
496 has occurred, and it is minor in nature, with the concurrence of the complainant and the
497 subject of the sworn complaint, the commission may dispense with the hearing process
498 and conduct a more informal mediation process in lieu of a hearing.
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499 (a)
500 (f) If the sworn complaint is not dismissed or otherwise resolved pursuant to subsection 30-
501 73(d), the city clerk shall promptly contact the members of the ethics commission, the city
502 solicitor, the complainant, and the respondent in order to ascertain a date and time when
503 a hearing can be convened on such complaint. As soon as a date and time have been
504 agreed upon for a hearing before the ethics commission, the city clerk shall send written
505 notice of such scheduling and a copy of the rules of procedure to the complainant and to
506 the respondent. No copies of the complaint shall be provided to any other parties before
507 the respondent receives the complaint.Investigation of violations. Upon the sworn complaint
508 of any person or on its own initiative, the ethics commission may refer to the city solicitor for
509 investigation, any alleged violation of the conflict of interest provisions and of the code of
510 conduct provisions in sections 30-33 and 30-34, respectively. The city solicitor shall be the
511 prosecuting attorney in all disciplinary proceedings before the ethics commission. In any such
512 investigation or proceeding, a defendant shall be given an opportunity to be heard after notice,
513 to be advised and assisted by legal counsel, to produce witnesses and offer evidence, and to
514 cross examine witnesses. A transcript of any such proceeding shall be made and retained,
515 subject to the confidentiality requirements of this chapter.
516 (g) The commission may dismiss a complaint if the complainant does not appear at the hearing
517 and if, in the opinion of the commission, it would be unfair to the respondent not to have
518 the opportunity to examine the complainant.
519 (h) As promptly as possible after the close of the hearing, the commission shall deliberate to
520 determine if the allegations have been proven by clear and convincing evidence. Only
521 ethics commission members who have been present for the hearing may participate in the
522 deliberations, and any findings and recommendations must be adopted by a majority of
523 the commission. The commission may consider, when making findings and
524 recommendations, the severity of the offense, the presence or absence of any intention to
525 conceal, deceive, or mislead, whether the violation was deliberate, negligent or
526 inadvertent, and whether the incident was isolated or part of a pattern.
527 (i) Within seven days of the conclusion of deliberations, the commission shall issue an order
528 setting forth its findings and recommendations. In the alternative, the commission where
529 it deems it appropriate, may issue an advisory opinion in lieu of making findings and
530 recommendations.
531 (j) If the respondent is an employee, the commission may, if it determines corrective action is
532 necessary, notify the city manager or the council president and recommend that action be
533 taken, including discipline.
534 (b)(k) If the respondent is a city official, the commission may propose actions to the city
535 council that are appropriate to the finding as specified in section 30-73(p).
536 (c)(l) The commission shall send a written copy of its findings and recommendations to
537 the respondent and the complainant.
538 (m)Proceeding relating to member. A member of the ethics commission shall be ineligible to
539 participate, as a member of the ethics commission, in any ethics commission proceeding
540 relating to his conduct. A member of the ethics commission who has been found by the ethics
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541 commission to have violated this chapter shall be ineligible to serve again as a member of the
542 ethics commission.
543 (d)(n) Self-disqualification. A member of the ethics commission may disqualify himself from
544 participating in any investigation of the conduct of any person upon submission, in writing and
545 under oath, of an affidavit or disqualification stating that he cannot render an impartial and
546 unbiased decision in the case in which he seeks to disqualify himself.
547 (e)(o) Actions by ethics commission. With respect to any violation with which a person has been
548 charged and which the ethics commission has determined as proved, the ethics commission
549 may take any one or more of the following actions:
550 (1) Reprimand. Issue a written reprimand or censure of that person's conduct.
551 (2) Discipline. With respect to a city employee, remove, suspend, demote or take other
552 appropriate disciplinary action with respect to that person, without regard to any limits
553 imposed by this chapter, but within the limits of the constitution, the laws of the state, the
554 Charter of the city, and ordinances and existing collective bargaining agreements.
555 (3) Recommend removal. With respect to an appointed official, recommend that appropriate
556 action be taken to remove the official from the appointed position.
557 (4) Recommend fine. With respect to an elected city official, recommend that such official be
558 fined in an amount recommended by the ethics commission.
559 (f)(p) Rights of person charged. In any proceeding before the ethics commission, upon the
560 request of any person charged with a violation of this chapter, such person shall be permitted to
561 inspect, copy or photograph books, papers, documents, photographs or other tangible objects
562 which will be used as evidence against that person in a disciplinary hearing and which are
563 material to the preparation of his defense.
564 (g)(q) Exculpatory information. In any proceeding before the ethics commission, if the city
565 solicitor or ethics commission at any time receives any exculpatory information concerning an
566 alleged violation against any person, it shall forthwith make such information available to such
567 person.
568 (h)(r) Subpoenas. Any person charged with a violation of this chapter may apply to the ethics
569 commission for the issuance of subpoenas for the appearance of witnesses and for the
570 production of documents on his behalf. The application shall be granted upon a concise
571 showing by such person that the proposed testimony or evidence is relevant (or is reasonably
572 calculated to lead to the discovery of relevant evidence) and is not otherwise available. The
573 application shall be denied if not made at a reasonable time or if the testimony or evidence
574 would be merely cumulative.
575 (i)(s) Confidentiality of proceedings.
576 (1) City employee. All proceedings before the ethics commission relating to a
577 violation of this chapter by a city employee shall be maintained confidential by
578 the ethics commission, unless:
579 a. Public disclosure is requested, in writing, by the person charged; or
580 b. The ethics commission determines after a hearing that a violation has
581 occurred.
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582 (2) City official. All proceedings before the ethics commission relating to a violation
583 of this chapter by a city official, appointed or elected, shall be maintained
584 confidential by the ethics commission, unless:
585 c.a. Public disclosure is requested, in writing, by the person charged; or
586 d.b. The ethics commission determines after a hearing that a violation has
587 occurred.
588 (j)(t) Appeals; public inspection. Notwithstanding the confidentiality requirements of
589 subsections (ht)(1) and (2) of this section, the ethics commission shall make available for
590 public inspection the record of all proceedings relating to any decision of the ethics
591 commission which is appealed to the superior court and the ethics commission shall report to
592 appropriate federal, state and/or city authorities any substantial evidence of a violation of any
593 criminal law which comes to its attention in connection with any proceeding under this chapter.
594 (u) Confidentiality procedures. The chairperson of the ethics commission shall, with the approval of
595 the ethics commission, establish such procedures as, in the chairperson's judgment, may be
596 necessary to prevent the disclosure of any record of any proceedings or other information
597 received by the ethics commission, except as permitted by this chapter.
598 Sec. 30-3574. - Waivers of restrictions and advisory opinions.
599 (a) Authority of ethics commission. Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 30-3320 and 30-
600 34, upon the written request of any city agency or of any individual who is or was a city
601 employee or city official, the ethics commission may grant a waiver to the specific prohibitions
602 contained therein if the ethics commission determines that the literal application of such
603 prohibition in a particular case is not necessary to achieve the public purposes of this chapter
604 or would result in an undue hardship on any employee or official. Any such waiver may be
605 granted only by written decision of the ethics commission. Any person who acts in good faith
606 reliance upon any such waiver decision shall not be subject to discipline or other sanction
607 hereunder with respect to the matters covered by the waiver decision, provided there was a
608 full disclosure to the ethics commission of all material facts necessary for the waiver decision.
609 (b) Waiver information confidential; exceptions. Any application for a waiver, any proceeding
610 and any decision with respect thereto shall be maintained confidential by the ethics
611 commission, provided that:
612 (1) Applicant's request. Public disclosure shall be made by the ethics commission upon the
613 written request of the applicant;
614 (2) Violations. The ethics commission may make such public disclosure as it determines is
615 required in connection with the prosecution of any violation of this chapter;
616 (3) Evidence of crime. The ethics commission shall report to appropriate federal, state
617 and/or city authorities substantial evidence of any criminal violation which may come to
618 its attention; and
619 (4) Public record. In the event that a waiver is granted, the waiver decision and the record of
620 all proceedings relating thereto shall be open to public inspection.
621 (c) Advisory opinion authorized. Upon the written request of any city employee or official, the
622 ethics commission may issue an advisory opinion as to the applicability of this chapter to any
623 particular fact or situation. Any person who acts in good faith reliance upon any such
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624 advisory opinion shall not be subject to discipline or other sanction hereunder with respect to
625 the matters covered by the advisory opinion, provided there was a full disclosure to the ethics
626 commission of all material facts necessary for the advisory opinion.
627 (d) Advisory opinion confidential; exceptions. Any application for an advisory opinion, any
628 proceeding and any decision with respect thereto shall be maintained confidential by the
629 ethics commission, provided that:
630 (1) Applicant's request. Public disclosure shall be made by the ethics commission upon the
631 written request of the applicant;
632 (2) Violations. The ethics commission may make such public disclosure as it determines is
633 required in connection with the prosecution of any violation of this article; and
634 (3) Evidence of crime. The ethics commission shall report to appropriate federal, state
635 and/or city authorities substantial evidence of any criminal violation which may come to
636 its attention.
637 (Code 1981, § 2-12; Ord. of 7-13-1998)
638 Sec. 30-7475. - Judicial review.
639 In the event that the ethics commission finds that any person has violated any provision of this
640 chapter, said person shall have a right of appeal to the superior court of any such finding, and of any
641 sanctions imposed with respect thereto, by filing a notice of appeal with the superior court within 30
642 days of the final action by the ethics commission in a particular case. The appeal shall be on the record
643 without a trial de novo. If the court determines that the record is insufficient for its review, it shall
644 remand the case to the ethics commission for further proceedings on the record. The court's review, in
645 the absence of actual fraud, shall be limited to a determination of whether the ethics commission's
646 decision was supported by substantial evidence on the record. The burden of proof in any such appeal
647 shall be on the appellant.
648 (Code 1981, § 2-15.1; Ord. of 7-13-1998)
649 BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
650
651 That Appendix F, Fees and Fines, of the Dover Code be amended by deleting the text indicated in red
652 strikeout and inserting the blue text, as follows:
653
Chapter 30. Code ofStandards of Ethical Conduct and Ethics
Fees and Fines
Commission
Article II. CodeStandards of Ethical Conduct
Fines not paid within 14 days of the day the fine was issued, including the day the fine was issued, shall
be automatically doubled in amount.
Sec. 30-3320. Prohibitions relating to conflicts of interest
Subsec. (g)(1e) Criminal sanctions, penalties Not to exceed $1,000.00
654
655
656 ADOPTED: *
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657
658 SYNOPSIS
659 This amendment adds required financial disclosure reports, acknowledgment of receipt of
660 policies, and required ethics training. It also makes organization changes to Chapter 30.
661 (SPONSORS: LINDELL, POLCE, AND SLAVIN)
662
663 ADOPTED: *
664 S:\ORDINANCES\2017\DRAFT\ORDINANCE #2017-14 CH 30 CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETHICS COMMISSION\Ordinance #2017-14 - Chapter 30-Code of Conduct and Ethics Commission - Revised
665 for 10-24-2017 CCW-LF&A Review.wpd.doc
666
667 Actions History:
668 10/24/2017 – Scheduled for Consideration - Council Committee of the Whole/Legislative, Finance and
669 Administration Committee
670 10/10/2017 – Deferred by Council Committee of the Whole/Legislative, Finance and Administration
671 Committee
672
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1. Definitions for Section 1:
“Fair market value” means, if a security, the quoted price as of January 1 of the year in
which the report is filed, or, if not a security, the price at which the public officer would sell as of
January 1 of the year in which the report is filed. 29 Del. C. § 5812(g).
“Instrument of ownership” includes, but is not limited to common or preferred stock,
rights, warrants, articles of partnership, proprietary interest, deeds, and debt instruments, if
convertible to equity instruments. 29 Del. C. § 5812(k).
“Business Enterprise” means corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship or any other
individual or organization carrying on a business or profession. 29 Del. C. § 5812(a).
“Position of management” means officer, director, partner, proprietor, or other managerial
position in a business enterprise. 29 Del. C. § 5812(l).
“Professional organization” means an individual engaged in, or an association organized
pursuant to, federal or State law for the practice of medicine, law, accounting, engineering, or
other profession. 29 Del. C. § 5812(m).
“Constructively controlled” means:
(a) a financial interest in the name of another which is controlled by a public officer by
virtue of any relationship of the public officer to another person which directly
benefits the public officer;
(b) any financial interest of a public officer held jointly with the spouse or child of such
public officer;
(c) any financial interest of the spouse or minor child of a public officer. 29 Del. C. §
5812 (d).
“Time or demand deposits” means checking and savings accounts in banks or deposits or
share in savings and loan institutions, credit unions, or money market funds. 29 Del. C. §
5812(p).
“Debt Instrument” means bonds, notes, debentures, mortgages, or other securities having a
fixed yield if not convertible to equity instruments. 29 Del. C. § 5812(e).
“Equity instrument” means any ownership interest in a corporation or other legal entity
giving the rights to the holder upon liquidation of the entity. 29 Del. C. § 5812(f).
2. Definitions of terms in the remaining sections are in those sections.
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FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE REPORT
(29 Del. C., Chapter 58, Subchapter II)
NAME:
BUSINESS ADDRESS:
STATE POSITION:
Section 1. (See instruction sheet for definitions of underlined terms). Report any legal or equitable ownership
in excess of $5,000 fair market value or from which income of more than $5,000 was either derived during the
preceding calendar year or might reasonably be expected to be derived during the current calendar year, in the
following:
(A) Instruments of Ownership: (This includes retirement accounts, 401K, IRA, etc. Do not include dollar
amounts. List name of company, instrument and nature of ownership, e.g., Fidelity, mutual fund, shareholder;
IBM, stock, shareholder).
(B) Business Enterprise: (This includes corporations, sole proprietorships, and partnerships. List name, type of
ownership & any position of management, e.g., JW Foods, partnership, director)
(C) Professional Organization: (This includes, but is not limited to, law firms, accounting firms, engineering firms.
List the name, address, type of professional practice (do not identify individual clients), & any position of
management, e.g., ABC Law Firm, 123 Public Rd., Dover, DE, legal services, partner)
(D) Any of the preceding which are constructively controlled. (e.g., ABC Mutual funds, trustee for minor child).
DO NOT LIST: Time or demand deposits (includes checking or savings accounts) or a debt instrument (CDs)
with a fixed yield unless convertible to an equity instrument.
Section 2. List each creditor to whom you were indebted for 90 or more consecutive days during the preceding
calendar year in an aggregate amount in excess of $1,000. Do not list the amount owed.
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Section 3. If any of the following were received during the preceding calendar year, or reasonably expected to be
received during the current calendar year, list the source.
A. Any income (including income from the State) for services rendered exceeding $1,000 from a single
source, unless reported in Section 1. (“Income for services rendered” includes salary, wages, consulting
fees and professional services.)
B. Any capital gain exceeding $1,000 from a single source other than the sale of a residence occupied by
the public officer. (“Capital gain” means gains that are reported under Internal Revenue Services laws.)
C. Any reimbursement for expenditures exceeding $1,000 from a single source; (“Reimbursement for
expenditures” means payments to a public officer for expenses incurred by the public officer.)
D. Any honoraria; (“Honoraria” means fees received for speeches, written articles, and participating in
discussion groups and similar activities. It does not include reimbursement for expenses.)
E. Any gift with a value in excess of $250 from any person. Identify the amount of each gift.(“Gift” means:
payment, subscription, advance, forbearance, rendering or deposit of money, services or anything of
value unless consideration of equal or greater value is received. “Gift” is not: (1) political contributions
otherwise reported as required by law; (2) commercially reasonable loans made in the ordinary course of
business; or (3) gifts from: spouse; relatives of the public officer or public officer’s spouse within the 3rd
degree of consanguinity; or the spouse of any such relative.)
F. ELECTED OFFICIAL DISCLOSURE FORM INPUT
Disclose the name and address of every non-profit organization, civic association, community
association, foundation, maintenance organization, or trade group incorporated in the State or having
activities in the State, or both, of which you are a council member or board member.
TYPE: NAME: ADDRESS:
Section 4. Data in this report is provided as of ______________________________________.
(Date)
I HEREBY CERTIFY that I have read the foregoing
report, and that, to the best of my knowledge and
belief, it is true, correct, and complete. I further
certify that I have not and will not hereafter transfer
any assets, interests or property while retaining an
equitable interest therein for the purpose of concealing
said assets, interests or property from disclosure.
____________________________________
Public Officer Signature
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CITY OF DOVER PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2017-15
1 BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN
2 COUNCIL MET:
3
4 That Chapter 34 - Elections, Article III – Absentee Voting of the Dover Code be amended by inserting
5 the text indicated in blue font and deleting the text indicated in red strikeout as follows:
6
7 ARTICLE III. - ABSENTEE VOTING[3]
8
9 Footnotes: --- (3) ---
10 State Law reference— Absentee voting generally, 15 Del. C. §§ 5501—5526.
11
12 Sec. 34-61. - Purpose.
13 The intention of this article is that only ato provide qualified voters of the city may vote under the
14 provisions of this article, who may be absentwho are unable to appear at the polling place of their
15 district to cast their ballot on the day of an election from the city,with the ability to cast an absentee
16 ballot. because of service in the armed forces of the United States or in the public service of this state or
17 of the United States, or because of his business or occupation, or because of personal sickness or
18 disability, or because of the tenets or teachings of his religion so that he cannot appear at the polling
19 place on the day of any election.
20 (Code 1981, § 2-41; Ord. of 2-11-1985)
21 State Law reference— Similar provisions, 15 Del. C. § 5501.
22
23 Sec. 34-62. - Persons eligible to vote by absentee ballot.
24 Any qualified elector, duly registered, of this city may cast histheir vote by absentee ballot in any
25 regular municipal election or special municipal election if the elector is unable to appear at the polling
26 place of histheir election district due to the following reasons:set forth in 15 Del. C. § 5502 Persons
27 eligible to vote by absentee ballot.
28 (1) Public service. Because such person is in the public service of the United States or of this state,
29 or is a citizen of the United States and temporarily residing outside the territorial limits of the
30 United States and the District of Columbia, or such person's spouse or dependents when residing
31 with or accompanying him, or is absent from this state because of illness or injury received while
32 serving in the armed forces of the United States;
33 (2) Armed forces, etc. Because such person is in the armed forces of the United States or the
34 merchant marines of the United States, or attached to and serving with the armed forces of the
35 United States in the American Red Cross or United Service Organizations;
36 (3) Business. Because of the nature of such person's business or occupation;
37 (4) Sick; disabled. Because such person is sick or physically disabled;
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Proposed Ordinance #2017-15 - Chapter 34–Elections, Article III–Absentee Voting Page | 2
38 (5) Vacation. Because such person is absent from the district while on vacation; or
39 (6) Religion. Because such person is unable to vote at a certain time or on a certain day due to the
40 tenets or teachings of his religion.
41 (Code 1981, § 2-42; Ord. of 2-11-1985)
42 State Law reference— Similar provisions, 15 Del. C. § 5502.
43 Sec. 34-63. - Request for ballot; Affidavitsstatements required of persons applying for absentee
44 ballots.
45 Any voter who is qualified under 15 Del. C. § 5502 - Persons eligible to vote by absentee ballot, and
46 who desiringdesires to receive an absentee ballot because such voter qualifies under any of the reasons
47 set forth in section 34-62 shall file an affidavit may request one by filing a statement with the city
48 clerk's office, subscribed and sworn to by the voter before authorized by law to administer., no later
49 than 12:00 noon the day before the election.
50 (Code 1981, § 2-44; Ord. of 2-11-1985; Ord. of 11-26-1990, § 3)
51 State Law reference— Similar provisions, 15 Del. C. § 5503.
52 Sec. 34-64. - Request for ballot.
53 Any voter who is qualified under section 34-62 to vote by absentee ballot and who desires to do so shall,
54 not later than the close of business of the last working day prior to any such election, request from the
55 election official an official ballot to be voted at such election.
56 (Code 1981, § 2-44; Ord. of 2-11-1985; Ord. of 11-26-1990, § 3)
57
58 Sec. 34-654. - Distribution of ballots, envelopes and instructions.
59 Upon receipt of a requeststatement from a voter, together with an affidavit if required by section 34-63,
60 the election officialcity clerk’s office, not more than 60, nor less than threefour days prior to the regular
61 or special election and within three days after the absentee ballots, envelopes and instructions for
62 absentee voters completing and returning an absentee ballot become available, shall mail to the voter,
63 postage prepaid, an official ballot, enclosed in an official envelope, along with a voucher envelope
64 marked "voucher envelope," a copy of the instructions to the absentee voterfor completing and
65 returning an absentee ballot and a mailing envelope marked "mailing envelope." Nothing contained in
66 this section shall prevent the issuance of an absentee ballot to those lawfully entitled thereto prior to
67 12:00 noon on the day prior to any generalregular or special election when the request is made less than
68 threefour days prior to the generalregular or special election.
69 (Code 1981, § 2-45; Ord. of 2-11-1985; Ord. of 11-26-1990)
70 State Law reference— Similar provisions, 15 Del. C. § 55054.
71
72 ADOPTED: *
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Proposed Ordinance #2017-15 - Chapter 34–Elections, Article III–Absentee Voting Page | 3
73 SYNOPSIS
74 The amendments revise the requirements to request an absentee ballot to comply with recently amended
75 State law. This amendment becomes effective January 1, 2018.
76 (SPONSORS: ANDERSON AND LINDELL)
77
78 Actions History:
79 10/23/2017 - Scheduled for Introduction - Council Committee of the Whole/Legislative, Finance,
80 and Administration Committee
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SPONSOR: Rep. Yearick & Rep. K. Williams & Sen. Bushweller &
Sen. Pettyjohn
Reps. Baumbach, Bentz, Dukes, Heffernan, Kowalko,
Miro, Outten, Paradee, D. Short; Sens. Ennis, Henry,
McDowell, Simpson, Walsh
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
149th GENERAL ASSEMBLY
HOUSE BILL NO. 47
AS AMENDED BY
HOUSE AMENDMENT NO. 1
AND
HOUSE AMENDMENT NO. 2
AND
SENATE AMENDMENT NO. 1
AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 15 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO ABSENTEE VOTING.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE:
Section 1. Amend § 5503, Title 15 of the Delaware Code by making deletions as shown by strikethrough and
insertions as shown by underline as follows and redesignating accordingly:
§ 5503. Request for ballot; affidavits statements for absentee ballots; delivery of absentee ballots.
(a) An elector desiring to vote by absentee ballot in an election for which the elector is a qualified elector may
request an absentee ballot from the Department by filing a hand written or electronically prepared affidavit statement with
the department no later than 12:00 noon the day before the election.
(b) An affidavit A statement may be filed pursuant to this section by mailing it, delivering it, or causing it to be
delivered to the Department.
(d) Affidavits Statements filed pursuant to this section shall:
(1) Indicate the election or elections for which the elector is requesting an absentee ballot;
(2) Include at least the following information:
a. The elector's name;
b. The address of the elector's domicile in the State;
c. The address to which the elector requests that the absentee ballot be mailed;
d. The elector's date of birth;
e. The elector's social security number (optional);
f. The elector's political party affiliation;
g. The elector's expected location on election day;
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h. The reason that the elector cannot appear at the regular polling place for the elector's election district
on the day of the election, which shall identify at least 1 of the reasons set forth in § 5502 of this title;
i. A telephone number, if available, to assist in resolving any challenge;
j. An e-mail address, if available, to assist in resolving any challenge; and
k. The elector's signature;
(3) Be subscribed and sworn to by the elector, before an officer authorized by law to administer oaths
affirming that under penalty of perjury, the information on the affidavit is correct and true except that the affidavit for a
person voting in person at the Department shall not be notarized but shall be accepted upon the voter presenting a form
of ID acceptable by a notary;
(4) Be dated during the calendar year in which the election is to be held, provided that when a presidential
primary election is scheduled and the date of the presidential primary election is less than 90 days before January 1 in
the year in which a President of the United States is to be elected, the affidavit statement shall not be dated more than
90 days before the day of the presidential primary election, and further provided that, for special elections conducted
pursuant to Chapter 71 of this title, the affidavit statement may be dated as of any date after a writ of election has
issued; and
(5) Be promulgated by the State Election Commissioner, in consultation with the Department, and personally
approved by the Attorney General of the State; provided however, that the Federal Post Card Application or its
successor as promulgated by the Federal Voting Assistance Program or its successor shall also be considered an
affidavit statement as used in this chapter.
(e) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section to the contrary, the affidavit of any elector desiring to
receive an absentee ballot because the person qualifies under any of the reasons set forth in § 5502(1), (2), (4) or (7) of this
title or because a person's business or occupation is providing care to his or her parent, spouse, or child who is living at
home and requires constant care due to illness, disability, or injury, may be self-administered.
(f)(1) If the elector does not indicate the election or elections for which the elector is requesting an absentee ballot,
it shall be presumed that the affidavit statement for the next scheduled election in which the elector is eligible to vote;
provided however, that an affidavit statement on which the person indicates that the reason the person is requesting to vote
by absentee ballot is that the person is temporarily or permanently physically disabled or that the person qualifies under any
of the reasons set forth in § 5502(1), (2), (4) or (7) of this title shall be presumed to be for all elections in a calendar year
unless otherwise indicated on the affidavit statement.
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(2) If the Department is unable to determine the election and/or elections for which a person is requesting an
absentee ballot, it shall attempt to contact the person in order to determine the person's intent; provided however, that if
time is of the essence and the Department is unable to contact the elector, the Department's county director and deputy
county director in the county where such person has requested an absentee ballot shall confer and determine the proper
course of action.
(g) Affidavits Statements filed pursuant to this section on which the elector's domicile is different than the address
at which the person is registered to vote within the State shall be used to transfer the person's registration.
(h) Affidavits Statements filed pursuant to this section on which an elector indicates that the elector has legally
changed the elector's name shall be taken as authorization to transfer the elector's previous registration information,
including the elector's voting record to the new name. The Department shall then use the affidavit statement to make the
change on the Department's records.
(i) Affidavits Statements filed pursuant to this section on which a person indicates a change in political party
affiliation received during a period in which changes in political party affiliation are closed shall be used to change the
person's political party affiliation when the period for changing political party affiliation re-opens.
(j) The Department may adopt a printed or electronic affidavit statement form (or both), containing blanks
associated with each item required by this section to be listed on an affidavit a statement, which may be completed by any
elector wishing to receive an absentee ballot pursuant to this section. An elector may submit a written or electronic request
to the Department for the Department-prepared affidavit statement form, which the Department shall forward to the elector
upon receipt of a request therefor.
Section 2. Amend § 5504, Title 15 of the Delaware Code by making deletions as shown by strike through and
insertions as shown by underline as follows:
§ 5504. Distribution of ballots, envelopes, and instructions; envelope specifications; pre-paid postage.
(a) Upon receipt of an affidavit a statement from an elector pursuant to § 5503 of this title, the Department shall
process the same and confirm that the elector qualifies for an absentee ballot pursuant to 5502 of this title.
Section 3. Amend § 5505, Title 15 of the Delaware Code by making deletions as shown by strike through and
insertions as shown by underline as follows:
§ 5505. Requirements for ballot envelope; numbering and coding; voter identification label; affidavit statement of
eligibility.
Section 4. Amend § 5507, Title 15 of the Delaware Code by making deletions as shown by strike through and
insertions as shown by underline as follows:
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§ 5507. Voting procedure; execution of affidavit statement; return of ballot.
Section 5. Amend § 5510, Title 15 of the Delaware Code by making deletions as shown by strike through and
insertions as shown by underline as follows:
§ 5510. Counting procedure for absentee ballots.
(4) If no challenge has been made, the absentee judges shall:
a. Open the ballot envelopes in such a manner as not to deface or destroy the self-administered affidavit
statement thereon or the absentee ballot enclosed;
Section 6. Amend § 5513, Title 15 of the Delaware Code by making deletions as shown by strike through and
insertions as shown by underline as follows:
§ 5513. Challenges.
(b) In addition, the vote of an absentee voter may be challenged:
(1) On the ground that the affidavit statement filed by the voter in compliance with § 5503 of this title is false;
or
(2) On the ground that the self-administered affidavit statement in the center of the face of the ballot envelope
is not signed.
Section 7. Amend § 5514, Title 15 of the Delaware Code by making deletions as shown by strike through and
insertions as shown by underline as follows:
§ 5514. Rejected ballots.
(a) No vote shall be accepted or counted if:
(1) The affidavit statement of the absentee voter that appears on the front of the ballot envelope is found to
have been altered or is not signed; or
Section 8. Amend § 5517, Title 15 of the Delaware Code by making deletions as shown by strike through and
insertions as shown by underline as follows:
§ 5517. File of absentee voters.
(a) The Department shall maintain records providing for the prevention of fraud and to make possible the tracing
and detection of any attempt to do so. Such records shall include, but shall not be limited to, the following entries:
(4) The date the affidavit statement is received by the Department;
Section 9. Amend § 5518, Title 15 of the Delaware Code by making deletions as shown by strike through and
insertions as shown by underline as follows:
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§ 5518. Members of the armed forces and certain other electors; 1 absentee request to cover all elections; federal
post card application (FPCA); electronic transmission of balloting materials.
(b) The receipt of a federal post card application from any person eligible to use the FPCA for an absentee ballot
who is not registered to vote in Delaware but is eligible to register to vote in Delaware shall serve as an application to
register to vote as well as a request and affidavit statement for an absentee ballot.
Section 2. This Act takes effect on January 1, 2018.
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City of Dover
Planning & Inspections Department
TO: Mayor and Council
FROM: David S. Hugg III, Acting City Planner
DATE: October 11, 2017
SUBJ: “Making Dover Prosper” – Outline & Plan and Status Report
The “Making Dover Prosper” Resolution outlines a number of areas for attention, with a report due by
the end of October, 2017. This memo is the report on the status of implementation as well as an outline
of ongoing and future actions. It is organized around the 4 key provisions in the Resolution.
Road mapping:
Update and restructure website – make access to DDD more prominent; update content; add PR
components; ensure easy links to various brochures and guidelines
o Move FAQ and Public Documents to Main Page tab
o Move DDD and other incentives to Business tab
o Make sure that all brochures are linked (Info you can use tab)
Status – we are working on redesign of the P&I/Economic Development portions of the City webpage
and on relocating the DDD link. All P&I informational brochures (36) are now accessible on the website.
We have contacted the Information Technology Division to provide training and support for a revision
and updating of the website.
Develop a “How to do Business/Open a Business Guide/brochure”
o Add as tab on main page
o Develop a brochure
Status – staff is working with the DDP to develop a “How to Start a Business” checklist and link to City
and other assistance and incentives. While focused on the DDD area, the product will be applicable to
any business prospect (some incentives will not apply). The checklist and guidelines will be on the DDP
and our website. A matrix to DDD incentives is being developed to better inform prospects about
incentives, timing, approval processes, etc.
Point of contact(s) for Economic Development
o Designate contact
o Create tracking process/ombudsman
Status – no action; council direction required
Streamlining and Access:
Continue process of revising ordinances to clarify and improve usefulness and efficiency; add
new provisions (adult day care, etc.)
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Status -the first set of ordinance revisions has been adopted by council and will soon be in effect.
Revisions to the Vacant Building Ordinance are in almost final form and are being reviewed with the
“Business Friendly Subcommittee” of the DDP. Also under review are possible new/revised incentives to
address vacancy. Drafting is also underway on the Manufactured Housing Ordinance revisions and new
provisions to allow Adult Day Care facilities is before Planning Commission. Next round of ordinance
reviews will look at residential district regulations, signs and administrative waiver provisions as well as
continued review of Sections 5 & 6, Supplemental Regulations. We continue to refine the staff DAC &
Planning Commission reports to better inform the applicant and the Commission of regulations and
good planning principles, with a renewed effort to hold pre-application and general planning meetings
with prospective developer as early as posible in the process.
ERP system to allow remote applicant access and tracking
Status – none pending implementation of the new technology and software program
“Rocket Docket” option for larger projects
Status- draft wording is under review to amend the appropriate code sections; process is being applied
to a couple of recent projects and is being offered to applicants (example: DSU housing project in order
to meet a tight deadline for occupancy). Also looking at the Traffic Improvement District option that was
successful in Middletown with the “Westtown” projects.
Review of Codes. Develop PR and Marketing, Information:
Update website (see above)
o From the Mayor news
o Council President’s Report
o Statistical information (including monthly report highlights)
Status- Website update project is underway. P&I monthly reports now include a ”highlights” section
designed to capture trends and development progress.
Business Friendly Working Group
Status- this group meets about once a month and serves as an opportunity for the City Planner to
informally discuss proposed ordinance changes, PR matters, and related topics. The October meeting
includes discussion of vacant buildings.
CDCC Subcommittee
Status-the City Planner has met with the leadership of the CDCC to ensure coordination of efforts and
will be working with them on a business leaders’ roundtable later in the year (November).
PR and Marketing Strategy and proposal
o Workshop/roundtable to scope issues
o Secure marketing assistance
o Define City staff responsibilities
o Link to CDCC and others
o Develop media strategy
Paj 47
Status- With the Mayor’s approval and funding, we have hired Strongpoint Marketing (the firm that
works with Smyrna and a number of state agencies) to present/facilitate a Marketing and Public
Relations Workshop on November 6. The workshop is intended to address the role of the City, what is
the audience, what are we trying to communicate, etc. We have reestablished a regular relationship
with the press, especially the State News, to provide them with better information and business and
growth related topics.
Code Enforcement Policy and VBO changes
o Establish revised code enforcement policy
o Revamp Vacant Building Ordinance
o Refine follow-up procedures
Status- new code enforcement policy is being implemented, and vacant building ordinance amendments
are under review. The VBO changes will go to council for first reading in November.
Target Zones – housing focus (DDD and Restoring Central Dover emphasis).
Status-we are actively working with NCALL, Habitat, private investors, and others, including the major
property owner, to better target blight removal and green space opportunities. Working with EPA, Kent
County, State and Federal Departments of Agriculture and DDP to develop a proposal for reuse of DDP’s
property on Railroad and Forest Streets for an EPA-priority initiative on urban agriculture; working to
identify opportunities addressing replacement/relocation of public and quasi-public facilities.
Consultation:
Build on existing entities such as KEP, Kent Food Innovation Committee, City/County Quarterly
Meetings; Restoring Central Dover, DDP, Habitat, NCALL, etc.
o Matrix of involved parties with contacts, schedules, etc.
o Ensure that City is actively involved (staff coverage/designation)
Status- ongoing; much more active role being taken in both DDP and Restoring Central Dover programs
Coordinate all the various plans and recommendations – consistent policy, implementation. etc.
Route 8 Corridor, Capital Gateway, P&R Needs Assessment, Bicycle/Pedestrian Plan, Restoring
Central Dover, DDD Application, Downtown Parking Study, Route 13 Corridor Studies, etc.
o Review plans for policies and recommendations, check for consistency
o Plan and recommendations for implementation/costs and priority
o Develop budgetary and regulatory proposal as needed
Status -This will be done this fall as a precursor to the comprehensive plan update.
Revamp DDD process and materials, improve awareness
o Outreach – DEDO project to stimulate owner interest
o Website access and content
o Update brochures and map
o “How to” matrix/FAQ/matrix
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Status- efforts are underway relative to the City website, DDD matrix, and a project with DEDO/DSBDT
to create a new version of “Pop-Up” to help business property owners with identification of potential
tenant opportunities
Explore all incentives and revise/modify/add as needed
o Assess effectiveness – use of incentives
o Consolidated application process with tracking
o Flag on business licensing process to identify prospective applicants
Status- underway, we are working with DDP to refine their incentives and looking at possible others
for DDD. Additional assessment will be needed to look at what else the City offers or can offer
outside the DDD.
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<!Citp of 1J.Bober
MAYOR AND COUNCIL
COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 2017-10
A RESOLUTION PROPOSING THE "MAKING DOVER PROSPER" INITIATIVE
WHEREAS, the City of Dover has a tradition of being friendly to business, enjoying the benefits of a strong
and diverse economy; and
WHEREAS, the City is in a globally competitive environment necessitating that it adopts cutting edge best
practices for business recruitment and retention; and
WHEREAS, many businesses are often intimidated by the array of governmental requirements and
regulations, causing them to make costly errors due to a lack of information and guidance; and
WHEREAS, business prospects of all sizes are attracted by an efficient, cooperative government; and
WHEREAS, there exists a positive, cooperative and coordinated framework among the various city
departments to help in "Making Dover Prosper"; and
WHEREAS, the City promotes an ethic of "Community Excellence through Quality Service"; and
WHEREAS, The City offers an extensive number of incentives throughout the city to encourage business
investment.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:
Section 1. That the City Council directs the City Manager and the Director of Planning and Community
Development to develop and make available at customer service locations and city offices,
and on the City website, information designed to be a "road map" to city services, including
utilities, trash collection, business incentives, economic development contacts, planning and
inspections processes, sign regulations and such other information deemed useful to persons
wishing to open, relocate or expand a business in the City.
Section 2. That the City Council directs the City Manager and Director of Planning and Community
Development to develop and implement a process to simplify, streamline and make more
user-friendly the licensing, permitting and inspection processes, to include creating a system
to allow applicants to self-check the status of their application remotely.
P.O. Box 475 •:•Dover, Delaware •:+19903
<!Communitv QE:xcellmce \!rbrouglJ ~trnlitp $>erl.lice
Paj 50
COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 2017-10 PAGE2
Section 3. That the City Council further directs the City Manager and Director of Planning and
Community Development to:
a) Establish a working group or groups as appropriate to review the City's codes and
ordinances, promotional and marketing activities, website, outreach and assistance,
and organizational structures as they relate to business recruitment and retention; and
b) Consult with local, county and state economic development entities as appropriate
to identify opportunities to facilitate exchange of information, coordination, and
development of a shared vision for "Making Dover Prosper"; and
c) Report to City Council not later than October 31, 2017 with recommendations and
a path forward.
ADOPTED: August 14, 2017
S:\RESOLUTIONS-PROCLAMATIONS-TRIBUTES\20 17\DRAFTIRESOLUTON NO . 201 7-1 0 ESTABLISHING THE MAKING DOVER PROSPER INITIATIVE\Resolution No. 20 17- 10.wpd
TI~VIN
COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Actions History
07/25/2017 - Introduced - Council Committee of the Whole/Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee