Annual Council Minutes - Revised 07-18-18 - State of the City Correction
City Council Meetings. 14 me 2018.
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ANNUAL COUNCIL MEETING
The Annual Council Meeting was held on May 14, 2018 at 7:30 p.m. with Mayor Christiansen
presiding. Council members present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil, Mr. Lewis (departed
at 7:39 p.m. and returned at 7:52 p.m.), Mr. Cole, Mr. Polce, Mr. Hare, Mr. Lindell, and Mr. Slavin.
Staff members present were Police Captain Bernat, Ms. Peddicord, Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Hugg, Fire
Chief Carey, City Solicitor Rodriguez, and Mrs. McDowell.
The invocation was given by Reverend Elmer N. Davis Sr., Dover Police Department Chaplain,
followed by the Presentation of the Colors by Dover High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officer
Training Corps (AFJROTC), the Pledge of Allegiance Led by Towne Point Elementary School
Students, and the National Anthem by the Kent Chamber Choir.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Neil moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Lindell and unanimously carried.
Mr. Anderson requested that item #14B - Resolution No. 2018-03 Approving the 2018 Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) Annual Action Plan, be removed from the Consent Agenda.
Mr. Anderson moved for approval of the Consent Agenda, as amended, seconded by Mr. Neil
and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 23, 2018
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of April 23, 2018 were unanimously approved
by motion of Mr. Anderson, seconded by Mr. Neil and bore the written approval of
Mayor Christiansen.
ELECTION OF COUNCIL PRESIDENT/VICE-MAYOR
Mayor Christiansen opened the floor for nominations for Council President/Vice-Mayor for
2018/2019.
Mr. Lindell moved to nominate Timothy A. Slavin to serve as Council President/Vice-Mayor for
2018/2019, seconded by Mr. Hare.
Mr. Neil moved to close nominations, seconded by Mr. Anderson and unanimously carried.
The motion to elect Timothy A. Slavin to serve as Council President/Vice-Mayor for 2018/2019
was carried with Mr. Sudler voting present.
PRESENTATION - KENT ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
Mr. Gerald Esposito, President of the Greater Kent Committee and a new member of the Kent
Economic Partnership, advised that he was representing the Kent Economic Partnership on behalf
of its President, Mr. Gregg Moore, who had a conflict.
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Mr. Esposito stated that the Greater Kent Committee is a group of about 100 CEOs and business
leaders whose mission it is to improve the quality of life for people in central Delaware. He noted
that some of their successes were the Delaware Turf and the CenDel Foundation Community
Building in Dover. The vision of the Delaware Turf, which has brought 40,000 visitors and
$333,000 in revenue into this area, was to be an economic driver for Delaware.
Mr. Esposito advised that the Kent Economic Partnership is a 501C3 organization that operates out
of the Kent County Levy Court building. He noted that the Levy Court approved an amendment to
the bylaws that allows the staff, executive director and other staff to report directly to the board of
directors of the Kent Economic Partnership and to expand the board of directors to include two (2)
members of the Greater Kent Committee. Mr. Esposito stated that the goal of the partnership is to
represent all of the communities in Kent County and to strengthen the business community and to
advance recruitment, expansion, and retention.
Mr. Esposito noted that the area that they want to focus on is using infrastructure that is already in
place with the Greater Dover Committee and the Kent Economic Partnership, as opposed to setting
up new committees. He advised that a lot of work has already been done, including a study
analyzing business and growth opportunities in central Delaware, which was sponsored in the
Greater Kent committee. Mr. Esposito stated that they had commissioned Rockport Analytics, a
nationally known expert in the field, and they identified five (5) different cluster areas as
opportunities for growing in Kent County, as follows: 1) Business and legal services, 2) distribution,
warehousing, and logistics, 3) healthcare, 4) education skills development, and 5) quality of life
issues.
Mr. Esposito stated that the Greater Kent Committee and Kent Economic Partnership believe that
collaboration is the key to economic development. He noted that they have a commitment to get
infrastructure investment in workforce development in other areas and the Greater Kent Committee
has already committed $100,000 for each of the next three years for this effort. Mr. Espsito stated
that Kent County Levy Court has dedicated over $200,000 for salary and in-kind services of offices
and administrative support. He advised that they had met with all of the major municipalities that
are involved and that they were asking for support from private businesses, as well as requesting the
State Bond Bill Committee for $100,000.
Mr. Esposito stated that they concluded a national, regional, and local search last month for the
newly refocused executive director position and a candidate has been selected to present to the board.
Mr. Esposito stated that they were excited and were hoping that the City of Dover could support
them.
Mr. Sudler suggested that the City’s Economic Development Committee members have the
opportunity to hear the presentation. Responding, Mayor Christiansen advised that a presentation
would be made at their next meeting for informational purposes.
PRESENTATION - 2017 ANNUAL REPORT - DOWNTOWN DOVER PARTNERSHIP
Ms. Tina Bradbury, Operations and Program Manager for the Downtown Dover Partnership,
reviewed the 2017 Annual Report.
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Mr. Sudler commended the Downtown Dover Partnership for the excellent job they did with Unlock
the Block, noting that he was glad that the governor was there, and actually listening to the concerns
of the business owners downtown, and also the representatives such as himself.
Mr. Anderson asked if the Wesley College discount program would be expanded to other college
students. Responding, Ms. Bradbury stated that the program was being tested with Wesley and
would, hopefully, expand to Delaware State and Delaware Tech.
By unanimous consent the 2017 Annual Report of the Downtown Dover Partnership was
unanimously accepted.
PRESENTATION - CLEAN HANDS FOR TAX DELINQUENCIES
Mrs. Cheryl Bundek, City Assessor, provided a presentation of the Clean Hands Procedure for
Delinquent Property Tax Collection.
PROCLAMATION - COMMUNITY ACTION MONTH
The City Clerk read the following Proclamation into the record:
WHEREAS, First State Community Action Agency has improved the lives of scores of individuals
and families throughout the City of Dover by promoting solutions to a broad range of challenges.
The Agency strives to ignite economic growth and promote economic stability, which builds stronger
communities, fosters self-sufficiency, and helps to ensure that all citizens are able to live in dignity;
and
WHEREAS, First State Community Action Agency has provided greater opportunities for those in
need of assistance by creating pathways to prosperity through programs that offer benefits such as
job training, affordable housing, and utility assistance for seniors; and
WHEREAS, First State Community Action Agency offers innovative solutions that create a greater
chance of success for everyone and continues to be a voice for the disenfranchised in our community.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF DOVER,
DELAWARE, do hereby proclaim May 2018 as COMMUNITY ACTION MONTH in the City
of Dover in recognition of the hard work and dedication of First State Community Action Agency.
On behalf of the Mayor and Council, Mayor Christiansen presented the proclamation to
Ms. Kaneisha Trott, Communications and Public Relations Specialist with the First State
Community Action Agency.
Ms. Trott thanked the Mayor and City Council for their support of First State Community Action
Agency, noting that they have been working hard fighting poverty for over 53 years. She noted that
there are over 7000 Dover residents that still live in poverty, but they are fighting, and they are
grateful for the partnership with the City to help provide relief and important services, education, and
tools that will help them become more self-sufficient and to provide for themselves and their
families.
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PROCLAMATION - PUBLIC WORKS WEEK
The City Clerk read the following Proclamation into the record:
WHEREAS, public works services are an integral part of the daily lives of those in our community,
and the support of an understanding and informed citizenry is vital to the efficient operation of public
works systems and programs, such as facilities management, fleet maintenance, grounds and parks
maintenance, solid waste collection and recycling, street and stormwater management, water
production, and water and wastewater operations and maintenance; and
WHEREAS, the health, safety, and comfort of this community greatly depend on the quality and
effectiveness of public works facilities and services, whose engineering, construction, and inspection
are vitally dependent upon the efforts and skill of the City of Dover Public Works Department staff;
and
WHEREAS, the American Public Works Association 2018 National Public Works Week theme,
“The Power of Public Works,” speaks to the essential nature of public works services in support of
everyday quality of life. The efficiency of the qualified and dedicated personnel of the Public Works
Department is materially influenced by the people’s attitude and understanding of the importance
of the work that the Department performs.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF DOVER,
DELAWARE, do hereby proclaim May 20 – 26, 2018 as PUBLIC WORKS WEEK in the City
of Dover, and urge all citizens and organizations to learn more about the issues involved in providing
public works, and to recognize the contributions that dedicated Public Works Department employees
make every day to our health, safety, comfort, and quality of life.
On behalf of the Mayor and Council, Mayor Christiansen presented the proclamation to
Mrs. Sharon Duca, Public Works Director, and the Public Works Department Staff. Mrs. Duca
thanked the Mayor and members of City Council for taking the time to recognize the staff and
services that are provided by the Department of Public Works, which are critical to the public health,
and the quality of life of the residents and community within the City of Dover. She also thanked
the City Manager who, over the past year and in years prior as the Controller/Treasurer, has provided
the department with a considerable amount of support and assistance in trying to help them reach
their goals efficiently and effectively, and to make improvements as they go.
Mrs. Duca stated that, most of all, she wanted to thank the staff of the Department of Public Works
who are extremely dedicated to their jobs. They work in all types of weather, all kinds of conditions,
and at all hours of the day in order to make sure that our community is served and issues are
addressed.
STATE OF THE CITY MESSAGE - MAYOR ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
Mayor Christiansen presented the State of the City address, as follows:
“Good evening Mr. President, Honored Members of Council, my fellow Doverians.
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As we bring the 300th Anniversary year of our city to an end we look back over those
past 300 years of progress and the unique place in the history of the United States that
the City of Dover has held.
Since its founding by William Penn, Dover and the State of Delaware have played
a pivotal role in the formation of this country by many local heroes, heroines and just
plain ordinary folks. From Caesar Rodney, John Dickinson to Annie Jump Cannon,
Dover has been a player not only on the world stage but also the frontiers of space.
Next year is the 50th anniversary of the first space suits made right here at ILC
Dover. Those very suits helped America reach for the moon and the stars.
We are the home to the movers of our military might, defending freedom around the
world. Each of the C-17 and C-5 aircraft bears the name of Dover on its fuselage as
we proudly call Dover Air Force Base our own. We have also witnessed first-hand
the return of those heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice so that we may enjoy
the many freedoms and liberties we hold so dearly. We as a city must continue to
foster the terrific relationship we share with our Air Base Community, because Dover
is Dover Air Force Base and Dover Air Force Base is Dover.
Dover is where America started. Certainly we know that the important documents;
the Constitution and the Bill of Rights were written in Philadelphia, but they were
penned by a Doverian and ratified in a Dover tavern just two blocks from where we
gather today by 36 Delawareans who said The United States of America is not such
a bad idea - and so, the great legacy and history of our great country began, here in
Dover.
Each of us who live in Dover and call this place our home have a responsibility to
one another and to those who have gone before us, but especially to those who will
call Dover their home in the future. We must work diligently and positively to make
our city meet and exceed our expectations and those of our citizens.
Each of our city departments and our employees struggle daily to meet those
expectations and challenges. We must give them the tools and personnel that will
maintain our city, and our relationships with our current businesses and foster growth
in the future. This will accelerate economic development and bring the many needed
jobs to Dover and Kent County. We have seen Rt. 13 flourish again as old, empty
buildings are resurrected into new businesses. We must continue to be supportive of
our downtown businesses. The latest incentives with a new program called Unlock
the Block holds hope for four storefronts thanks to state and local entities coming
together to promote small businesses. This effort can become a success with
community support. We must continue to pursue every avenue we can to bring jobs
into the community that afford people a decent living. All of us must become good
stewards of the trust and responsibility given to us by our fellow citizens. We must
put personal aspirations and agendas aside and focus on what is in the best interest
of the City of Dover and in the best interest of our citizens.
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Overall, we are on a downward trend with crime but we must maintain our vigilance.
The opioid crisis is affecting more and more of our citizens every day and the Dover
Police Department has increased awareness and the education process through the
Angel Program that allows for those in our community who are afflicted with the
horror of addiction to get the help they so desperately need. We have and will
continue to reach out to the youth in our community for they are our future. Our
PAL Program is starting back up refreshed with a new commitment by promoting
positive relationships with the police and the citizens they serve. We need to take
back our neighborhoods and streets. Communities need to join the effort and become
the eyes and ears of law enforcement. All of us must take pride in where we live -
summer is right around the corner - we must make Dover the safe haven our children
need and deserve. The city is committed to investing in our Parks and Recreation
Department by revamping Dover Park. I am proud of the direction that we are
currently on - We are working with a firm gaining insight from those who currently
use the park and those who want to use the park. We are gaining an honest, untainted
perspective so we can build and develop fiscally responsible projects that will meet
the needs and many of the "wants" of our community.
Affordable housing and homelessness has become a primary focus. Habitat for
Humanity, NCALL, and private investors such as Mike Maupin have stepped up to
the challenge of creating affordable homes while revitalizing neighborhoods through
the Restoring Central Dover program. The Mayor's Blue Ribbon Task Force for
Homelessness are concentrating their efforts towards establishing low cost and
affordable housing while making sure the services that individuals need are available
and convenient to assist them on their journey off of the streets and becoming
productive community members. We will continue to build on these partnerships
daily to help those who desire to be helped.
While we must certainly handle the day-to-day mundane tasks of the present, we
must maintain and improve our infrastructure in anticipation of the next 300 years
of success and prosperity. We are actively exploring opportunities that will support
the infrastructure downtown, allow adequate parking for existing businesses and
leave room for growth. We need to continue to maintain and improve the water
system, our roadways and our electrical system - These are the arteries that keep our
city moving forward. We must assess and candidly address these issues and the
resources needed to do so.
We must stand shoulder to shoulder with our Police and Fire Departments, our
Electric, Public Works, Finance Department, Recreation and all of the other
outstanding departments of the city as we strive for "Community Excellence through
Quality Service", today and in the future.
We are big enough to be a city, still small enough to be a town. Dover is on the
move. Come grow with us as we begin tomorrow, today.”
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COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT - APRIL 24, 2018
The Council Committee of the Whole met on April 24, 2018 at 6:00 p.m., with
Council President Slavin presiding (departed at 6:15 p.m. and returned at 6:17 p.m.).
Members of Council present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil, Mr. Lewis,
Mr. Polce (departed at 6:50 p.m., returned at 6:51 p.m., departed at 7:38 p.m. and
returned at 7:40 p.m.), and Mr. Lindell (departed at 6:50 p.m.). Mr. Cole and
Mr. Hare were absent. Mayor Christiansen was also present. Civilian members
present for their Committee meetings were Mr. Shevock and Dr. Stewart (Legislative,
Finance, and Administration), and Mr. Garfinkel and Mr. Shelton (Safety Advisory
and Transportation).
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee met with Chairman Hare
presiding.
Downtown Dover Business Improvement District (BID) Budget and Assessment
(Tax) Rates for Fiscal Year 2018-2019
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, City Manager, reviewed the Business District Improvement
(BID) Assessment (Tax) Rates for Fiscal Year 2018-2019. She advised that the
recommendation was to keep the bid tax rate at zero (0), as it had been for the past
three (3) years.
Staff recommended approval of the proposed budget and assessment (tax) rates for
Fiscal Year 2018-19, as presented.
The Committee recommended approval of staff’s recommendation.
By consent agenda, Mr. Anderson moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
The Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee met with Chairman Lewis
presiding.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
By unanimous consent, the agenda was amended to consider item #4 - Update
- Safety Issues at the Library (Mr. Lindell) first.
Update - Safety Issues at the Library (Mr. Lindell)
This item was deferred during the meeting of March 27, 2018 due to time constraints.
Mr. Lindell reminded members that they had discussed safety concerns at the library
during the City Council Workshop of January 22, 2018. He stated that he had asked
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for an update because he had heard about issues that should not be occurring in any
public building and that no parent should have to explain to a child who could
witness these events. Mr. Lindell advised that he understood it is hard to do
something about these instances when they are not reported; however, this did not
excuse the fact that they still occur. He stated that he was not looking to be
adversarial; however, the first thing in dealing with a problem is to identify that there
is a problem, and then come up with solutions. Mr. Lindell noted that he did not
want to just complain, but there were a lot of smart people in the room and suggested
thinking of common sense solutions to try to address some of the issues.
Mr. Lindell stated that it was not his intention to indict the homeless, noting that he
had not mentioned anything about the homeless one way or the other. He stated that
his position is that lewd behavior is lewd behavior, and it does not matter where you
live or how much money you have. Mr. Lindell advised that the bottom line is that
if you are not using the library for its intended purposes and are detracting from other
people’s experiences there, the issue needs to be dealt with. He advised that he was
looking for an update or a way to proceed in restoring the confidence of a majority
of the citizenry in going to the library and feeling safe. Mr. Lindell noted that just
because the public is not talking about the issue doesn’t mean that there’s not a safety
issue. He stated that some of those he had talked to were fed up that nothing had
changed and had questioned the point of bringing it up. Mr. Lindell expressed his
hope that members, with the help of library staff, could do something about this
issue.
Mrs. Margie Cyr, Library Director, stated that she had been thinking about this issue
for several weeks and explained that the library takes great pride in its services, staff,
and facility. She advised that the library does not want to have a perception in the
community that it is unsafe for anyone, and noted that the facility is not unsafe.
Mrs. Cyr indicated that there are occasionally people who behave badly, both inside
the building and outside on its grounds. She stated that, since moving into the
building in 2012, specific physical changes had been made to address layout issues
that presented challenges to behavior management. Mrs. Cyr noted that they had
removed the snack vending machines, tables, and chairs from the lobby; installed
office space in the lobby; rearranged the tables and chairs on all three (3) floors; and
enclosed the small theater in the back of the building in order to be able to secure the
space when not being used for its intended purpose.
Mrs. Cyr advised that the library has an acceptable behavior policy, which is enforced
by staff and cadets, and if anyone violates this policy, they are removed from the
building for the day. She explained that if the misbehavior is repeated, library use
privileges are revoked for a period of time, such as a week, a month, six (6) months,
or longer, depending upon the offense.
Mrs. Cyr stated that in approximately 2007, the library contracted with a private firm
to provide security services during hours of operation. She noted that when the
Dover Police Department began its cadet program, the library canceled the contract
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with the private firm and agreed to have cadets provide security, and this program
had been a great improvement and a big help. Mrs. Cyr advised that many of the
issues that were experienced when the building first opened in 2012 are no longer
problems, or certainly not to the extent that they were at that time. She explained that
three (3) cadets were specifically assigned to the library at that time and now there
is a regular schedule for cadets in the library. Mrs. Cyr noted that the Police
Department provides backup for the hours when a cadet is not in the building. She
advised that the library is open 66 hours per week and even if all three (3) cadets, at
19 hours each week, worked 100% of their hours in the library, there would not be
enough coverage for all the library’s hours of operation. Mrs. Cyr stated that they
have successfully put in place a list of cadet duties with a schedule for their
movement around the interior and on the library’s grounds. She noted that staff is
present and proactive on all three (3) floors of the building, and the cadets are
stationed with views of the lobby and the first floor when they are not on their
rounds.
Mrs. Cyr stated that staff is faced with some challenges, and the first of them is the
providing of food outside the library. She noted that it is not illegal for people to
give food out on city sidewalks, and people do this because they have absolutely the
best intentions and the biggest hearts. Mrs. Cyr explained that this creates a problem
for the library, because the people who receive the food bring the food into parts of
the library where they are not allowed to have food, and if they are caught eating they
are asked to leave the building. She advised that this results in trash in the building,
a problem for the custodians, and a problem for staff trying to manage it. Mrs. Cyr
stated that there are other appropriate places in the City where food can be and is
already distributed to people that are hungry, but part of the problem and the
challenge that staff has is that the people who are giving out the food are getting
different messages. She advised that when she engages in conversations with people
who ask if it is it okay if they pass out food in the library, she takes the opportunity
to tell them that it’s really not okay because it presents a problem for staff,
custodians, and cadets. Mrs. Cyr stated that she explains that people who bring food
into the library knowing that they are not allowed to do so create a problem for staff.
She stated that people who wish to feed the hungry could think about the big issue
and about the fact that there are better, more appropriate places for feeding that
wouldn’t present a problem for this public facility and might be helpful to everyone.
Mrs. Cyr indicated that this message is not always given out to people, and
sometimes the message is, “You can give the food out on the sidewalk.” She stated
that she realizes that legally people can do this, but it presents a problem because they
come to her and say, “I was told we can give food out on the sidewalks.” Mrs. Cyr
advised that it is about the message, the consistency, the big picture, and the fact that
everyone is not engaging in the conversation with people in the community in the
same way. She noted that the other problem is that there is no other place for people
to go in the community when it is too hot or too cold and they do not have a home.
Mrs. Cyr advised that the library would benefit from more cadet hours, but this
would require a larger cadet force, and that has an impact on the City budget.
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Mr. Sudler asked how the duties assigned to cadets by the library are assessed.
Responding, Mrs. Cyr stated that the cadets enforce the acceptable behavior policy
that everyone who uses the library is expected to follow. She noted that people are
not allowed to behave in ways that prevent others from using the library, such as loud
raucous behavior, using foul language, engaging in physical altercations with people,
being disruptive, or damaging furniture or furnishings. Mrs. Cyr advised that these
are basic rules of conduct that one would expect in any facility, public or not.
Mr. Sudler asked if Mrs. Cyr meets with cadets each Monday to go over expectations
or the progress of the ascribed rules. In response, Mrs. Cyr explained that
supervision of the cadets is the responsibility of the Police Department.
Mr. Garfinkel asked how those who repeatedly do the same things are tracked.
Responding, Mrs. Cyr stated that staff has an incident file where they keep track of
what the incident was, who the person was, what the dates were, and what action was
taken. She stated that when they have a recidivist they look at their offense and how
often it’s been repeated and take away their library usage privileges and ban them for
a period of time.
In response to Mr. Garfinkel regarding the penalty for first, second, and third
offenses, she explained that it depends upon what the offense is. She noted that if
kids are running around on the floors, they are asked to leave for the day, and if they
come back and do it again, they are told that they have to leave until they can bring
their parents back to talk with staff about the children’s behavior. Mrs. Cyr advised
that if a person is caught doing something inappropriate in one of the spaces and the
police are called, resulting in charges, they are banned, sometimes for a year,
sometimes for six (6) months, and sometimes permanently.
Responding, to Mr. Garfinkel, Mrs. Cyr stated that progressive penalties are
memorialized in her files. Mr. Garfinkel asked if there is a policy book that states
what will happen for a second offense so that everyone gets the same punishment.
In response, Mrs. Cyr stated that they are very consistent with their application of
punishments. She explained that they keep a file, there is a binder at the adult
services desk, she has a binder, the Police Department keeps records, and the City
Manager receives copies.
Mr. Sudler suggested, moving forward, that Mrs. Cyr meet with the City Manager
and Police Chief to orchestrate sound guidelines so that it would not become an issue
if someone stated that another person was given more opportunity than they had.
Mr. Lewis asked if library staff is trained annually on how to address situations or
issues that may occur at the library. Responding, Mrs. Cyr explained that, because
a lot of their staff are part-time, they have a monthly staff meeting in the morning and
repeat the same meeting in the afternoon so that everyone has the opportunity to
participate. She stated that staff goes through training, all types of issues, and
discussions at each of these meetings.
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In response to Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Cyr stated that she did not know the number of
cameras installed in the library; however, she thought there were approximately 25
cameras. She offered to get the exact number of cameras. Mrs. Cyr advised that
there were no cameras outside on the exterior of the building but she believed that
there should be. Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Cyr stated that no one monitors the
screens. She informed members that when there is an incident the police and staff
review the recorded tapes, and the City’s IT Department can also review them.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Cyr stated that there was probably more
recidivous behavior with adults than with teens. She noted that staff believes that
everyone deserves a second chance but it is not their policy to believe people deserve
much more than that. Mrs. Cyr advised that if people don’t behave and have proved
that they’re just simply breaking the laws, staff has them leave, because this is
disruptive and not fair to library users.
Police Chief Marvin Mailey stated that Mr. Lindell had recently asked him about a
lewdness complaint. Chief Mailey advised that this complaint occurred in the fall of
2017 and was reported approximately 24 hours after it occurred. He stated that
library staff contacted the Police Department, who dispatched a detective to look into
it; however, they were unable to identify the suspect, and the case remains under
investigation.
Responding to Mr. Lindell, Chief Mailey stated that he would have to speak to the
detective to determine if the reason that he could not identify the individual was
because of the quality of the camera system. He advised that typically staff has good
video and asks for the community’s help in identifying people. Mrs. Cyr stated that
the video was of good quality and the person could be seen, but apparently he was
not known to the Police Department.
Chief Mailey informed members that cadet duties were agreed to by Mrs. Cyr and the
Dover Police Department staff, specifically Lieutenant Kober. He noted that
Lieutenant Kober, Sergeant Hopkins, Master Corporal Lynch, and the Department’s
Special Enforcement Unit had worked diligently with Mrs. Cyr since the problem
about the safety of the library surfaced. He explained that the Police Department is
authorized to have nine (9) cadets and currently has four (4). Chief Mailey advised
that the library is allocated three (3) cadets out of its payroll, so all of the cadets are
principally at the library during the specific hours that Mrs. Cyr and the Police
Department have agreed to, because they are high frequency hours. He noted that the
only hours when there is not a cadet at the library are on Sunday, when the Police
Department’s patrol unit tries to make checks, unless they are busy and not able to
do so. Chief Mailey stated that if library staff needs the Police Department, they call
the non-emergency number or 911 and the Department provides police services.
Chief Mailey advised that cadets perform a foot patrol in the library every hour to
check the first floor, second floor, and the bathrooms, and they do an exterior patrol
of the library. He stated that during this patrol they enforce any City ordinances or
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violations identified by Mrs. Cyr or by City of Dover ordinance. Chief Mailey
informed members that when cadets are not performing their foot patrols, they are to
be present in the front lobby and observe people actively entering and exiting the
library. He noted that there is strict enforcement on any foul language, cursing, or
acting disorderly, which constitute removal from the library. Chief Mailey noted that
cadets are not police officers, and they approach people and ask them to leave the
library. He stated that if people don’t leave, a patrol officer is called to ask them to
leave, and they are arrested for trespassing if they do not do so. Chief Mailey stated
that cadets enforce no eating at the library.
Chief Mailey explained that removals and bans are at the discretion of Mrs. Cyr, and
the Police Department defers to her on this, noting that she is in charge of the
building and this is not atypical of many other properties or establishments. He
indicated that if the library bans someone, the Police Department receives
notification and enforces the ban, and anyone in violation of the ban would be
arrested for criminal trespass. Chief Mailey noted that there is no panhandling or
sleeping in the libraries, and Mrs. Cyr has informed them of a specific breakdown
that she would like followed as far as warnings and eviction.
Chief Mailey informed members that the cadets have been briefed on all of this
information, they are in contact with Mrs. Cyr and her staff on a daily basis, and they
are supervised by the Police Department because they are employees of the Police
Department. He noted that Sergeant Hopkins provided him with some numbers
indicating that they had about 215 total complaints in the library over the last
calendar year, from April to April, 78 of which were property checks. Chief Mailey
explained that a property check is when a cadet makes a physical check of the
premises while walking around. He noted that if a cadet works a six-hour shift, there
should be six (6) property checks per shift; however, he noted that the math doesn’t
add up because the cadets were asked recently to start taking complaint numbers for
their checks. Chief Mailey stated that there had been nine (9) community outreach
complaints, which are when staff goes out and engages the public for things handled
by community policing. He indicated that there were eight (8) complaints when a
physical arrest was made, two (2) complaints of a sexual nature, and 12 fugitives
wanted on local fugitive arrest warrants, etc., were apprehended at the library.
Mr. Neil stated that he did not want to leave the impression that the City was not
concerned with the safety of the people at the library or the perception of some
people that they would walk in the library and be concerned. He indicated that he
was a big fan of the library for a number of reasons, noting that the movie Lady Bird
was shown earlier in the day and a Winston Churchill biopic would be shown for free
on Friday evening, both of which were up for Oscar awards. Mr. Neil stated that the
list of the library’s programs is absolutely marvelous, and the library staff that he had
encountered had been terrific. He stated that the library is first class and a
tremendous asset when trying to bring business in.
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Mr. Neil stated that people had been providing free food for those who need it in
front of the library and if there is a place to put them, this may solve some of the
problems. He thought that outside cameras would be a great safety item. Mr. Neil
congratulated Mrs. Cyr for the wonderful programs and staff. He stated the desire
to look at the problem areas and see what can be done to make it feel and be safer.
Mr. Neil stated the need to face the dangers of every public building, be alert, and
resolve the issues, whether in Dover or in any other community in the United States.
Mr. Lindell stated that he shared Mr. Neil’s sentiments in regard to the programs of
the library, and did not want or intend to put down staff; however, the issue still
exists. He noted that there are people like Mr. Neil who enjoy and take advantage
of the library’s great programs, but he asked members to imagine how many others
could be reached that have lost faith because they have had a negative experience
with the safety issues. Mr. Lindell stated that there is a large part of the tax-paying
population in Dover that have turned away from programs because they don’t feel
confident about safety. He advised that he had heard that the safety issues were being
dealt with; however, one (1) lewd act is too many. Mr. Lindell stated that he knows
that you can’t read people’s minds and know what they’re going to do in the library,
but there has to be a way to restore the confidence of the citizenry of Dover. He
noted that he would not bring this up if it were just one (1) or two (2) people, but he
had heard comments, even when the referendum was going through for the library
to be built, that it was going to be a homeless shelter, and from people who have said
that it is a homeless shelter. Mr. Lindell stated that Mr. Neil was correct and that
perception is reality when it comes to the issues involved with some of the events
going on at the library. Mr. Lindell stated that it does not matter who is doing it, this
does not excuse the fact that things are still happening. He advised that people were
finding alcohol bottles, etc., in the aisles, noting that it is a large area. Mr. Lindell
explained that he wants to try to find a way to push forward and address the issues.
He advised that the City has a great library and staff and he was not critical of anyone
at the library; however, taxpayers were paying for it, and he stated the desire to figure
out how to get more people involved and what could be done.
Responding to Mr. Shelton, Chief Mailey stated that the Police Department is
budgeted for nine (9) cadets and has only four (4). He explained that the Department
was actively recruiting, and the problem is that the cadet program is a success. Chief
Mailey advised that a lot of young people with good backgrounds are looking to get
into law enforcement, typically going through some kind of criminal justice program
to obtain their bachelor’s degree, and are hired. He noted that the Dover Police
Department hired two (2) cadets from its program that are now in the Police
Academy, so the Department is trying to recruit more. Chief Mailey stated that
recruiting is hard and noted that not a lot of people want to get into law enforcement
because of constant criticism and the disbelief in law enforcement that many people
have.
In response to Mr. Shelton, Chief Mailey stated that once more cadets are brought on,
the Department would be able to add cadets to the library and get back to the more
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normal schedule that they had at the onset. He stated that he thought that they would
have two (2) shifts of cadets coming in to fill more of the working hours, rather than
just trying to focus on the peak hours.
Mr. Shelton stated that he did not know what the rounds are but suggested that, if
they are just patrolling the inside and giving a little time to the outside, another cadet
may be able to help with this to resolve some of the issues with the library. Chief
Mailey advised that people need to report things to the library staff when they see
them, or call the Police Department, so that they can take action, rather than reporting
them to the Chief of Police two (2) weeks later. He explained that receiving
information two (2) weeks or 24 hours later does not help them to do their jobs, and
they need the information in real time when the act is occurring.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Chief Mailey advised that they advertise for cadets on
social media and have partnerships with the local colleges. He noted that Delaware
State University, Delaware Technical and Community College, Wilmington
University, and Wesley College are aware of the Police Department’s program, and
several people have come to the cadet program over the years from these schools.
Chief Mailey explained that they go to job fairs and advertise; however, young
people don’t want to get into law enforcement anymore, and this is being seen in the
police hiring process. He stated that the number of people who show up had
decreased from 500 to 300, because no one wants to be in law enforcement because
there is so much criticism thrust upon the police for doing their jobs.
Mr. Sudler stated that, in addition, there are sometimes behaviors that deter people
from wanting to be law enforcement officers, noting that one cannot deny or turn a
blind eye to this. He advised that Chief Mailey was doing a great job and thanked
him for his service.
In response to Mr. Lindell, Chief Mailey stated that people can make anonymous
reports to the Police Department. Mrs. Cyr advised that if someone sees something
or has a problem in the library, they need to report it to staff, who is very proactive,
always out and about on the floor, and always takes immediate action as soon as they
know that there’s a problem. Mrs. Cyr stated that if somebody calls her a week later
saying that they saw someone smoking a cigarette in the bathroom a week ago, there
is nothing that she can do, other than to say that she is sorry they had that problem
at the library. She stated that if they come to staff right away, they can help and take
care of the problem.
Mr. Neil concurred with Chief Mailey and Mrs. Cyr, stating that elected officials
cannot be everyplace. He stated that he had worked as a news reporter, reporters
need the public to tell them what is happening, and this is why Mr. Lindell had
brought this subject up. Mr. Neil suggested having someone monitor the cameras
and immediately report when they see something happening, noting that this may
require better or different equipment. He also suggested having volunteer walkers
observe, go through the library, and report these things, noting that they may have
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something to show that they are part of the staff. Mr. Neil advised that observation
and reporting are what is needed to change the perception that there is a big problem
there, and action could be taken immediately.
Mr. Anderson stated that Mr. Neil’s suggestion was brilliant. He suggested reaching
out to groups like Integrated Services, or others that work with the disabled, to get
some volunteers. Mr. Anderson stated that these individuals may be able to do
something on a limited basis, noting that they may not be able to walk around but
have the ability to observe, help, and report to the staff or the cadets if they see
something happening.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Cyr stated that the library already works with the
Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). Mr. Anderson suggested expanding
RSVP’s work and seeing what the City can do to get more people. He indicated that
there are a lot of people in the community who would help.
In response to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Cyr stated that the library has a little fewer than
1,000 people using the building per day. Mr. Anderson noted that, with traffic of
350,000 plus people, there had been eight (8) disorderly conducts and two (2)
incidents of lewd behavior in one (1) year. He noted that several years ago there had
been problems with assaults and fights, and the nature and frequency of the problems
in the library had decreased to the point that he wished his neighborhood was as safe
as the library, with only occasional disorderly conduct. Mrs. Cyr stated that the
problems had decreased and expressed her belief that this was solely because of the
addition of the cadets to the building.
Mr. Anderson noted that the recommendations that members would be looking into
would be to try to obtain someone to monitor cameras on occasion, putting a call out
to the community for volunteers, getting outside cameras, and trying to rebuild the
cadet corps, who are being hired away by Dover and other towns across the State
because they are quality individuals.
Mr. Anderson asked Mrs. Cyr if she had any additional recommendations.
Responding, Mrs. Cyr stated that library staff struggles with this issue every day,
because they are very committed and love what they do and the service that they
provide for the community. She stated that they do not want a building that is unsafe
and that people don’t feel comfortable using, so they talk about this issue a lot.
Mrs. Cyr explained that this is an evolving conversation for staff, and they did not
have specific complaints. She noted that they had done a lot of relocation in the
building and staff is up and around all the time. Mrs. Cyr advised that she loved the
idea of using volunteer walkers and thought this could be easily implemented, noting
that they would pursue this. She indicated that they were open to other suggestions.
Mr. Lindell stated that he disagreed with Mr. Anderson, noting that there had been
two (2) lewd acts and a number of issues. He questioned if members would be
saying that it was a good year if there were two (2) lewd acts in City Hall in a year.
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Mr. Lindell advised that one (1) such act was too many, noting that taxpayers are
paying for the library and want to go in and use it for the appropriate use.
Mr. Anderson stated that solutions were being offered to reduce the problems, but it
was also being recognized that the library had gone from fights and violence to a
situation where there was less than a problem per month. He expressed the desire to
recognize this because there is a need to let people know, rather than creating a
situation where people are afraid to have their children in the library because of a
false image. Mr. Anderson advised that he wanted accuracy, which means honestly
admitting and dealing with the problems that exist but not exaggerating the problems
and creating fear that is not warranted by the statistics. He noted that the Dover
Public Library is safer than many of the neighborhoods and places in the City.
Mayor Christiansen commended Mr. Lindell for bringing this issue before the
Committee, noting that he was sure that all elected officials as well as City staff had
heard complaints and concerns about this issue. He commended Mrs. Cyr and her
staff for the vigilance in the efforts that they put into making the Dover Public
Library a place that’s attractive to all citizens and noted that everyone had invested
a lot of time, effort, energy, and money into the library. Mayor Christiansen also
commended Chief Mailey and the cadets that had served in the library. He stated that
he believed that one (1) aggressive act is an act too many, as Mr. Lindell had stated,
but also concurred with Mr. Anderson that because of the Dover Police Department’s
presence, professionalism and cooperation with the staff and library patrons, the
library continues to be a safer place than it was when it started out and the private
security firm was used. Mayor Christiansen indicated that answers would come out
of this discussion that would make the library a safer and more inviting place.
The Committee recommended that Mrs. Margie Cyr, Library Director, submit a
statement or memorandum to Mrs. Donna Mitchell, City Manager, in regard to
looking into outside cameras, for possible inclusion in the next fiscal budget.
By consent agenda, Mr. Anderson moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Cyr stated that everyone could agree on the three (3)
C’s: Cooperation, Collaboration, and Communication. Mr. Lewis asked Mrs. Cyr to
keep members abreast of what is going on at the library.
Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) Project Updates
Senator Bikeway
Mr. Jeff Niezgoda, Assistant Director, Delaware Department of Transportation
(DelDOT), reviewed a map, entitled “City of Dover Bicycle Facilities”, and provided
members with an update regarding DelDOT’s five (5) active construction projects in
the area. He stated that DelDOT has a lot of bicycle network improvements going
on, including a project on West Street which extends behind the Dover Police
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Department from the DART facility and connects to North Street. Mr. Niezgoda
advised that they were converting the current sidewalk in this area to a 10-foot wide
pathway that will connect to the trail network that runs in front of Eden Hill down to
Schutte Park. He stated that construction was underway and was expected to be
complete by the end of May, noting that the project required a lot of coordination
regarding utilities.
Mr. Niezgoda stated that DelDOT has a streetscape enhancement project that affects
his travel to work on North Street. He explained that the project extends from Queen
Street to Governors Avenue, and the area between Queen and New Streets is
currently under construction. Mr. Niezgoda indicated that there was a delay in
project construction, noting that when the original contract was awarded, DelDOT
was supposed to maintain traffic through the area; however, this was not possible
because traffic was backing up tremendously, and there was a need to go through the
process of road closure. He explained that there would be improvements within that
block on both sides and they will then open up this section and move to the New
Street and Governors Avenue section, which will be closed down for a period of
time. Mr. Niezgoda advised that he thought there were approximately 100 more days
on that contract, which was for approximately $1.4M worth of work.
Mr. Niezgoda explained that three (3) existing trail resurfacing contracts were
underway, noting that the trail on North Street that leads to Schutte Park is about 21
years old, it had served beyond its life expectancy, most of it had been milled and
resurfaced, and it looked very good. He stated that a lot of Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) modifications had been made. Mr. Niezgoda advised that the
second trail resurfacing contract will be probably be starting in a month-and-a-half
and will extend from the Forrest Avenue/Saulsbury Road intersection in a northerly
direction to College Road. Mr. Niezgoda stated that this project would probably be
done in about 40 days. He noted that the third trail surfacing location will extend
from the Forrest Avenue/Saulsbury Road intersection to a point west of Mifflin
Road. Mr. Niezgoda indicated that this is part of an existing trail that runs in front
of Greentree Shopping Center and is very heavily used by pedestrians and bicyclists.
He stated that DelDOT would also be installing trail counters and infrared lighting,
which will be downloaded into a computer network system and provide data
regarding how many people are using these facilities on a daily and hourly basis,
when peak hours are, etc. Mr. Niezgoda advised that they started using this
equipment a couple of years ago at the C & D Canal, and the trail had over half a
million users after being open two-and-a-half years. He stated that when these types
of facilities are built correctly, people really want to use them recreationally.
Mr. Niezgoda noted that DelDOT looks at trails as a transportation system that will
help people to move around safely, while reducing congestion and improving air
quality.
During the Regular Council Meeting of July 11, 2016, Council considered a Review
of the Bicycle/Pedestrian Subcommittee Recommendations - Senator Bikeway
Design Concept. Members approved the Council Committee of the Whole/Safety
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Advisory and Transportation Committee’s recommendation to accept the Bicycle
Pedestrian Subcommittee’s recommendations and move forward with the Senator
Bikeway Design Concept.
Mr. Niezgoda stated that the Senator Bikeway originated from the City and was the
City’s number one (1) priority project, and the MPO evaluated it through a planning
study and initiated the design. He noted they had originally planned to go up Fulton
Street to State Street but ran into a problem where Fulton Street runs into State
Street, and the pathway would have had to jog to the right. Mr. Niezgoda explained
that the cost to fix that location would have been more than $0.5M and a lot of
historical houses and property issues would have been impacted; therefore, they
looked at another option using Cecil Street to State Street, utilizing the alleyway to
Washington Street, and connecting to the trail network at Silver Lake Park. He stated
that they worked with site plans for new development along Route 13, which would
give them a connection to the eastern side of Route 13 across and down White Oak
Road. Mr. Niezgoda stated that the use of Cecil Street is the best, safest, and lowest
stress component and is much safer than it would be at Fulton Street.
Mr. John Hermes, Century Engineering, informed members that they had been hired
by DelDOT to work on the trail plans and the projects. Referring to the map entitled
“City of Dover Bicycle Facilities,” he explained that it showed all the projects that
they have within the City of Dover, noting that the pink line is a 14-mile loop that
DelDOT is working on connecting. Mr. Hermes explained that most of the loop is
already in place, some segments are currently in planning or design, and the Senator
Bikeway is an important connection. He noted that the City had ranked this project
as its number one (1) priority on its 2015 Bicycle Plan.
Mr. Niezgoda, Mr. Hermes, and Mr. Anthony Aglio, Planner Coordinator, DelDOT
reviewed a presentation, entitled “Senator Bikeway Improvements”.
Mr. Slavin expressed thanks for the work on the project and stated that he agreed
with Mr. Niezgoda that the amount of people who will use the trails when they are
built will be astounding, and this had been seen in New Castle and Sussex Counties.
He stated his opinion that Kent County had been shorted on this and he was glad to
see that this is starting to take hold here. Mr. Slavin noted that the new path would
connect on Cecil Street to North State Street and that one (1) portion of Cecil Street
goes through the Wesley College Campus. Responding to Mr. Slavin, Mr. Hermes
stated that they had worked with Wesley College previously when the alignment was
along Fulton Street, and they were scheduled to approach Wesley College for the new
alignment that was just approved by the bike committee. He noted that the new
alignment was a better fit for Wesley College because it is not as much of a main
promenade. Mr. Niezgoda advised that the pathway on Cecil Street would just
consist of signs and markings.
Mr. Slavin asked how they would make the crossing over North State Street safe,
noting that it is a troubling road with a lot of traffic and that traffic that is headed
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northbound seems to come out of the congested areas and accelerate all the way
down. He advised that, thanks to DelDOT’s help, some nice measures had been
taken to help calm traffic, but this is a tough spot. Mr. Slavin stated that he thought
parking would have to be restricted at the ends of this area. Responding, Mr. Hermes
stated that, unlike the crossing to the south, the North State Street crossing has the
advantage of a straight alignment and good sight distance without the bike rider
having to jog one way or the other. Mr. Hermes stated that stop signs would be
placed at that intersection to make sure that bicyclists have to come to a stop and
recognize that there is an intersection. He noted that a point comes where bicyclists
have to recognize that they have to yield to traffic.
Mr. Slavin expressed concern about bicyclists’ line of vision left and right as they
stop, noting that with on-street parking that tight, they will have to be halfway out in
the road to see if a car is coming. Mr. Hermes stated that they would take a look at
parking to see if they have to take a spot or two (2) on either corner to make sure that
the sight triangle for cars is visible.
Mr. Aglio advised that there will be additional signage and markings and they would
be evaluating the sight triangles. He stated that if additional traffic control is needed,
they could look at something like a pedestrian rapid flash beacon. Mr. Aglio advised
that there would be warnings upstream and downstream to notify cyclists that a
crossing is coming up and noted that they had not taken the project to DelDOT’s
traffic department. He advised that they were currently working on installing a
beacon on Loockerman Street where the trail crosses, and will also have beacons on
College Road by the Delaware State University campus and on the West Dover
Connector, where the trail pathway crosses from the east to the west.
Mr. Slavin noted that bicyclists would cross over North State Street and turn left into
the North State Street Alley on the east side and stated that he owns a house on that
alley and has constituents with residences there. He advised that, from his
experience, there is a lot of vehicular traffic in that alley, which is used as a major cut
through for anyone traveling westbound on Route 8 who wants to get to Silver Lake
Park, to the point where they had to have speed enforcement in the alley. Mr. Slavin
suggested that a solution would be to remove an unnecessary extension of Maryland
Avenue that exists between American Avenue and the alley, noting that this might
help if people understood that there is not a quick connection through that
neighborhood. He asked that this suggestion be looked at, since it is a tight alley and
all the homeowners on North State Street use the alleys as their parking areas.
Mr. Slavin stated the need to calculate that cars are coming and going using that alley
as their only means of egress, because people typically don't park on the street there.
Mr. Slavin asked if property owners who have dogs that bark at bicyclists would be
fined. He noted that his dogs would bark at every bicyclist that goes up and down
this area, although he had tried to stop this. In response, Mr. Aglio stated that, as the
bikeway evolves, it is good for people to see each other face-to-face, know where the
dogs and neighbors are, and get to know the community, and Mr. Slavin stated that
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he agreed. Mr. Slavin advised that more traffic in the alley may make it safer and
slow speeds down a little. He asked the presenters to let him know if they want to
walk the alley because there is a little elevation in the block from Hazel Road to
Washington Street, and where it hits Washington Street it is particularly dangerous.
Mr. Sudler asked if problems had been seen in the past with off-road vehicles, such
as ATVs, on such paths and what could be done to prevent or prepare for that.
Responding, Mr. Aglio stated that they had not seen this much in Delaware. He
explained that they sometimes see cars parked on a path that is required for
development because it doesn’t really connect, or a utility company may park in such
a location to access their utilities. Mr. Aglio advised that there will be bollards where
cars may ingress and egress from the trail. He noted that he, personally, does not like
bollards because bicyclists sometimes get distracted and strike them; however, this
would be done if there was a problem.
Mr. Sudler clarified that he was talking about ATVs, four-wheelers, three-wheelers,
two-wheelers, motorcycles, etc. Responding, Mr. Niezgoda advised that there is
more ATV activity at the C & D Canal, which is a more isolated location. He stated
that this type of use would require enforcement action by the City. Mr. Niezgoda
stated that he had not had this problem over his 16-18 years of experience, nor had
Mr. Aglio, who had been doing this type of work longer.
In response to Mr. Sudler, Mr. Niezgoda stated that they had not received inquiries
regarding trails for ATVs or four-wheelers. He explained that the Department of
Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) is a better agency to handle
that type of facility interaction. Mr. Niezgoda advised that some off-road facilities
are provided in New Castle and Sussex Counties, but he did not think there were any
parks located in Kent County.
Mr. Neil stated that the plan is very futuristic and something that the City would be
proud of for a long time in the future. He advised that he thought motorists are going
to have to get used to the bikeway, but the bicyclists are going to love it. Mr. Neil
stated that, looking to the future and what is going to be happening in this country,
it is magnificent.
Mr. Anderson asked what type of outreach had been given to those in residential
neighborhoods and if they had gotten feedback from neighborhood watches and
associations. Responding, Mr. Hermes advised that overall they had not gone to
specific neighborhoods; however, the Senator Bikeway had been presented at two (2)
different public workshops within the City. He stated that they had been continually
going to the Bicycle/Pedestrian Subcommittee, whose members had been doing
outreach informally with the neighborhoods, and he noted that several members live
within the neighborhood and had given ideas and support. Mr. Hermes stated that
they had also hosted a lot of workshops where the projects and plans had been
shown. He advised that they had not gone to a specific person in each community
but had been promoting these types of projects through grassroots outreach.
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In response to Mr. Anderson, Mr. Hermes stated that they were not proposing to
subtract any parking from residential neighborhoods. He indicated that the industrial
site on West Street would be more affected. Mr. Hermes explained that there are two
(2) businesses along the railroad tracks and they would be requesting no parking on
the west side of West Street. He indicated that there was no reduction of parking
within the neighborhoods, with the possible exception of North State Street if a car
spot must be taken. Mr. Aglio stated that he agreed, and reminded members that the
path was recently shifted from Fulton Street to Cecil Street. Mr. Aglio stated that
this summer would be a great opportunity to go to the neighborhoods and work with
the councilmen from that district and see what the neighborhood says.
Mr. Hermes advised that statistically, when bike paths are researched for safety and
improvements, they show that “eyes on the street” are a big component. He stated
that a lot of people are worried about what a bike path brings to neighborhoods;
however, it has been found through research that a bike path actually reduces crime
and offers a benefit as people use it, become aware of things that happen, and are able
to report them.
In response to Mr. Lewis, Mr. Niezgoda stated that after everything in the original
construction is put in place, the City would be responsible for maintaining the
amenities that are installed on City-owned streets, such as the tubular delineator
along West Street and the pavement markings along the street network. He advised
that if a delineator was knocked down by a snow plow on a City-owned street, which
would only be on West Street, the City would have to replace it. Mr. Niezgoda stated
that DelDOT would be responsible for approximately 600 delineators on Division
Street and would buy different types of snow plow equipment that is able to plow the
lane behind the delineator, between the face of the curb and the delineator.
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mr. Niezgoda stated that the project does not have any
bicycle rack facilities and noted that this could be discussed with the Delaware Bike
Council, which has a budget for things like that. He advised that bike racks had been
provided to the City in the past.
Bradford Street Streetscape
During the Regular Council Meeting of April 11, 2016, Council considered South
Bradford Street Streetscape Enhancements (Division Street to Loockerman Street)
- Transportation Enhancement Program Agreement. At that time, members approved
the Council Committee of the Whole/Legislative, Finance, and Administration
Committee’s recommendation to authorize execution of the agreement to initiate the
design for the South Bradford Street Streetscape Improvement Project, as
recommended by Staff.
Mr. Jeff Niezgoda, Assistant Director, Delaware Department of Transportation
(DelDOT), reviewed a presentation, entitled “Bradford Street Streetscape
Enhancements”. He explained that the project limits are along Bradford Street from
Loockerman Street to Division Street. Mr. Niezgoda stated that, through the public
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comment soliciting process, it was determined that a six-foot concrete sidewalk with
a brick band on the outside was the preferred option, and this will be placed through
the commercial areas. He advised that the residential areas will continue to be
maintained as a landscape area for grass or trees.
Mr. Niezgoda stated that workshops were held with the Downtown Dover
Partnership (DDP) Board, City of Dover Historic District Commission, and the
public in 2015 or early 2016. He advised that he had provided Mrs. Dawn Melson-
Williams, Principal Planner, a copy of the executed agreement and an invoice prior
to the meeting. Mr. Niezgoda explained that DelDOT manages the funds, noting that
80% of the project costs come from the federal government and 20% from the City
of Dover as the prospective sponsor. He stated that they would now be moving into
the design phase, at a cost of approximately $150,000, $30,000 of which would be
the City’s commitment. Mr. Niezgoda advised that a project of this magnitude would
be expected to take 16 to 18 months; however, they would try to expedite and get it
done in 12 months.
Mr. Niezgoda stated that they would continue to have public workshops and work
with local residents to make sure that everybody is on board with the project. He
explained that the projected construction cost was about $860,000. Mr. Niezgoda
advised that the City’s match would be approximately $172,000, and the City would
receive a $900,000 or $1M project for this investment due to the federal funds
received for this statewide program.
Presentation by the Dover/Kent County Metropolitan Planning Organization
(MPO) - Dover Capital Gateway Plan and Design Book
Mr. James Galvin, Principal Planner, Dover/Kent County Metropolitan Planning
Organization (MPO), advised members that the MPO and the City met in the fall of
2015 and decided that there was a need to look at the City’s gateway from the west
coming into downtown, including both Forest and Division Streets, and made the
decision to hire Whitman, Requardt and Associates to come up with a plan.
Ms. Andrea Trabelsi, Project Manager, Whitman, Requardt and Associates, stated
that they undertook this process in the fall of 2015, and the purpose was to develop
a shared vision for the western entrance to the capital that would guide
redevelopment and any improvements that were desired going forward, based on the
vision that the planning process would develop. She explained that the study area
covered the western end of the City, including Division Street from Saulsbury Road
eastward, through the split of Forest Street to where Forest will terminate at the
Duncan Center, and Division Street heading eastward to State Street. Ms. Trebalsi
stated that the process was pretty condensed and they used the charette approach,
which is a compressed time frame where all stakeholders and the public are engaged,
and in this case there was a week-long process with some advanced planning work.
Ms. Trabelsi reviewed a presentation, entitled “Division Street - Capital Gateway
Plan”.
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ANNUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 14, 2018 PAGE 23
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mr. Galvin advised that the City would estimate how
long construction activity will take if the project were to happen, and the next step
would be to have the engineers review the project and provide an estimate.
Ms. Trabelsi stated that the study is wide ranging and visionary and went beyond the
engineering things within the right-of-way. She expressed the desire to make sure,
as redevelopment and projects like the Senator Bikeway come through and pavement
and other things are replaced, that they achieve the vision that the community wants
over the long term.
Mr. Anderson expressed concern about two (2) or three (3) years of construction on
the busiest arteries in the City. He stated that there was some value to the project,
although he was not a big fan of the three-story limit concept, noting that he thought
this would be going in the opposite direction for economic development.
Mr. David Hugg, Director of Planning and Community Development, advised that
he had asked for Mr. Galvin and Ms. Trabelsi to be on the agenda. He explained that
the Planning Department had plans going back to at least 2000 and maybe a few
years before that, and a study of the same area was done in August 2000 that
addressed the Clarence Street extension and some of the same kinds of things.
Mr. Hugg informed members that this matter is really relevant because the
Department will be updating the City of Dover Comprehensive Plan this year, and
one (1) of the tasks they are looking at is taking the various and sundry plans, such
as the Gateway Plan, the transit area plan, and the bike plan, and seeing how they
integrate, which will drive a lot of the transportation planning. He stated that it is
important that these documents do not just get done, put on a shelf, and ignored.
Mr. Hugg indicated that, whether or not people like roundabouts, there is a need to
start making some of these decisions and invest both City and State money,
particularly State money since the roads involved are primarily State roads, to get the
gateways and some of these things addressed in the City. He stated that it was
important for Council to hear about these projects and understand them because they
would see them again when staff returns with some of the proposals for the
Comprehensive Plan.
In response to Mr. Neil, Mr. Hugg stated that the State requires the City to update the
Comprehensive Plan and have it certified by roughly this time next year. He
explained that staff had begun the process, and in the June or July time frame
members would start seeing draft plan proposals and recommendations coming
forward. Mr. Hugg explained that this information would first go to the Planning
Commission, who was already working on a homework assignment to look at the old
plan and figure out what was done well, what was not done, and what the City might
want to do in the future. He stated that there would be some workshops with
Council, probably in early summer, to lay out some of the concepts and ideas.
Mr. Hugg advised that Dover’s 2008 Comprehensive Plan was a very good, well-
written plan, and staff was taking the strengths of that plan and incorporating them,
as opposed to starting all over, because that would be a waste of time. He explained
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ANNUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 14, 2018 PAGE 24
that they were doing a scorecard on which parts of the plan were implemented, which
were not, and why.
Mr. Neil asked if members would be able to look at the plan. Responding, Mr. Hugg
advised that the Capital Gateway Plan and Design Book is available on the MPO
website. He noted that copies were available for members to peruse following the
meeting and that they could talk to Planning Department staff, MPO staff, or the
consultant.
Request for Letter - Dover/Kent County Metropolitan Planning Organization
(MPO) Support for a Service Road to the Garrison Technology Park and
Adequate a Full Connection with Route 1 (Mr. Anderson)
During the Council Committee of the Whole/Safety Advisory and Transportation
Committee meeting of March 27, 2018, members considered a Briefing on
Dover/Kent County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Projects, and
Mr. James Galvin, Principal Planner, Dover/Kent County MPO, stated that he had
not seen anything to indicate that the Delaware Department of Transportation
(DelDOT) was looking at an interchange off Route 1 for the Garrison Oak
Technology Park (GOTP). He suggested making sure that DelDOT knows that the
City is interested in an interchange, if this is the case.
Mr. Anderson stated that, approximately four (4) years ago, a major institution was
looking at bringing in approximately 400 jobs to the GOTP but had concerns about
power, internet, and Route 1. He explained that Dover had been very much in the
running for this project, according to a representative of the group that he had spoken
with, but the lack of a connector was a major issue. Mr. Anderson explained that
there were other concerns with vehicles because White Oak Road is not exactly
conducive to major truck traffic. He noted that, in speaking with the Mayor, he
became aware that there appeared to be other concerns as well.
Referring to the Garrison Oak Traffic Study - Technical Memorandum from
T. Y. Lin International dated June 14, 2017, Mr. Anderson advised that the study was
based only on commuter traffic, mostly on current projects, and not on projections
based upon a major employer, truck traffic, or traffic of a commercial nature. He
stated that the connector may have been abandoned because, in his view, they were
looking at the wrong things in the study. Mr. Anderson stated that the City was
looking at the potential for economic growth, and this would not happen if there is
not connection to a major highway facility. He explained that when he looked at
similar facilities in different states, smaller towns, China, and even in Ethiopia, there
was one (1) commonality with the successful ones, and that was an easy connection
to a highway facility, which is missing at Garrison Oak.
Mr. Anderson stated that a connector was set up at Route 8, which is a bigger road
and can take traffic more easily; however, there has to be some sort of service road
that will keep commercial traffic out of the residential neighborhoods, make an easy
connection to Route 1, and also allow potential expansion in the future. He advised
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ANNUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 14, 2018 PAGE 25
that a connector would also hopefully keep some roads, like Acorn Lane, from
becoming even more dangerous, noting that studies and visits to Acorn Lane indicate
that it has a lot of traffic on it, which it was not built for. Mr. Anderson indicated
that White Oak Road is a very busy road and if more traffic is put on it to merge with
the traffic closer to Route13, it would be helpful to have a corridor connection to
Route 1 planned for future growth. He stated that a connector would be easy and
doable and, in his view, is as important as the connector with Dover Downs and the
mall. Mr. Anderson noted that a connector had been discussed but, as members had
heard during their meeting of March 27, 2018, the City must request it because it was
not known that the City is interested in making this vital economic development
effort happen.
Mayor Christiansen advised that he is the Chair of the MPO. He stated that the MPO
was able to do a little research on this, and the subject of a connector was broached
briefly as the GOTP progressed. Mayor Christiansen noted that Route 1 was
intended from its outset to have limited access, and they fought hard for
consideration of numerous exits to the City. Mayor Christiansen stated that they had
to battle with the State regarding Puncheon Run and the exit at Route 8 because,
according to federal plans, Route 1 was supposed to have very limited access, with
the major exits to the city at Scarborough Road and the exit blending back into Route
1 heading toward the beach. He indicated that consideration probably should have
been given as the GOTP came about, noting that he was told that the amount of car
traffic in the traffic studies at that point in time didn’t justify further study of a
bonafide exit there.
Mayor Christiansen concurred that the City should probably proceed with sending a
letter to the MPO to request looking into a connector. He noted that the MPO has
technical staff on board, such as Mr. Galvin, who can assist the City with where to
start on this.
The Committee recommended drafting a letter to the Dover/Kent County
Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) in support of a connection to Route 1 in
the area of the Garrison Tract on White Oak Road.
By consent agenda, Mr. Anderson moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Official Request for Comparison Analysis of Nature and Status Update: 2015,
2016 and 2017 Community Complaints against Dover Police Officers
(Mr. Sudler)
Mr. Sudler stated that he felt it is important, in monitoring community and police
relations, to review and incorporate citizens’ concerns and the nature of complaints
submitted to the Police Chief or Dover Police Department’s Internal Affairs Unit in
the Police Chief’s annual report.
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Police Chief Marvin Mailey reviewed the Dover Police Department Internal Affairs
Citizen Complaint Statistical Summary 2015-2016-2017. He stated that this
document was generated by Lieutenant Christopher Hermance of the Internal Affairs
Unit and included a sum total of citizen complaints made against police officers.
Chief Mailey explained that citizen complaints come primarily through face-to-face
contact with an on-duty supervisor, and when a citizen has a complaint against an
officer’s actions, they come to the Police Department, contact the on-duty supervisor,
and ask to file a complaint. He advised that typically these complaints can be fielded
and addressed by the supervisor and a resolution can be made at that time.
Chief Mailey noted that if the complainant is not happy, they are given and execute
a citizen’s complaint form, which goes through Major Tim Stump, Deputy Chief of
Police, who reviews the matter and then passes it on to the Internal Affairs Unit. He
advised that complaints can also be filed electronically on the Police Department’s
website, doverpolice.org, by filling out a form, which is submitted directly to
Lieutenant Hermance and then goes to Major Stump.
Chief Mailey explained that the Police Department received 14 complaints against
officers in 2015, which were investigated in each and every case. He stated that
some of these complaints dealt with unlawful execution of a search warrant, where
the person alleged that the police had no right to enter the premises; harassment by
a police officer; unlawful entry into a citizen’s residence; misconduct on the part of
an officer; unnecessary force by an officer for a juvenile that was in custody;
unprofessional behavior during a traffic stop; and police profiling.
Chief Mailey informed members that when a complaint is received by the Police
Department, they conduct a full investigation, contact and speak with the
complainant, and bring them in for an interview. He noted that the Department has
a policy that governs how they do this, so that it is not done differently on each
occasion. Chief Mailey advised that the complainant is met and interviewed by the
investigator and a statement is taken. He stated that, at that time, they try to obtain
any information, such as any witnesses; video; the location, time, and date; and the
other people who were present. Chief Mailey explained that they then conduct the
investigation; obtain information; contact the people and get independent statements
from them and see what they saw and what happened. He stated that finally the
officer is brought in and is given the opportunity to have representation with them,
because it is an Internal Affairs investigation. Chief Mailey noted that, under the
rules of Garrity, officers are not allowed to lie, and if an officer lies during an
investigation they can be terminated on the spot. Chief Mailey advised that there is
no wiggle room where this is concerned, and if he is conducting an investigation and
an officer is less than truthful, they can be up for termination and they are fired.
Chief Mailey advised that, in 2015, 14 complaints were fielded by the Department
and when the investigations were completed, none of the complaints were sustained
and none of the officers were found to be at fault. He indicated that there are varying
degrees of involvement for officers, as follows: 1) exonerated, which means that the
officer was there and his or her actions were deemed to be within policy and the law
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and above board; 2) not involved, which is when an officer alleged to be involved in
an incident was, in fact, not there; 3) not sustained, which means the officer took
action but there was no harm on the part of a violation or the law; and 4) sustained,
which means that the officer was found at fault.
Chief Mailey stated that the Department received five (5) complaints in 2016,
completed five (5) investigations, and none of the officers were at fault and no
charges were sustained. He explained that the complaints included an allegation that
an officer had failed to protect a subject’s private property after that person had been
arrested at a residence where they were staying; a dispute over the charges that
officers placed against a person that was arrested; an allegation that an officer was
rude during a vehicle stop and the Police Department had videotape evidence that
proved the officer was not rude and their actions were within policy standards; and
an allegation that an officer submitted false evidence during a criminal case.
Chief Mailey advised that in 2017 they had 19 complaints, some regarding a subject
who complained that he was detained at gunpoint; an unlawful search; a dispute over
a Dover Code citation that was issued; a person who alleged their daughter was
harassed by a police officer; three (3) counts of rudeness by three (3) different
victims and three (3) different officers; one (1) count of excessive force alleged on
an officer; failure to conduct a follow-up investigation on a complaint; another
excessive force; rudeness; profiling; stop without cause; one (1) person who
complained that the officer would not fill out a crime report on what the person was
alleging; alleged false arrest; alleged harassment by police; another incident where
excessive force was alleged; another failure to investigate; and false information on
a police report. Chief Mailey advised that the 19 complaints for 2017 were
investigated and no officers were found to be at fault, for a total of 38 complaints
over the last three (3) years.
Chief Mailey stated that after the investigation is conducted, the findings are
submitted to the complainant, so the complainant does receive feedback from the
Police Department from their allegations. He noted that if an officer is found at fault,
the Police Department cannot tell the complainant if the officer received discipline,
under the Law Enforcement Officer’s Bill of Rights, 11 Del. C. §9200, which spells
out certain rights the officer has under Internal Affairs investigations.
Chief Mailey informed members that the Department receives a lot of complaints,
noting that the Mayor had called him several times about people who were not happy
with police services and a lot of the time they are able to settle those complaints in
the Mayor’s Office. He stated that he follows up and gets back to those with
complaints. Chief Mailey advised that the Department receives complaints by
several methods, and each and every time they take out a complaint number through
Internal Affairs. He explained that they do not put this information in their annual
report because this is a confidentiality issue, noting that he had left the names of the
officers and complainants out of the information that he had provided. Chief Mailey
stated that other police officers do not even know that an officer is being investigated.
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ANNUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 14, 2018 PAGE 28
He advised that when they launch an investigation and bring an officer in, the officer
is sworn to secrecy and is not supposed to talk about the investigation or contact the
complainant during the course of the investigation, unless the Police Department is
trying to facilitate some kind of dialogue between the complainant and the officer,
which had been done in the past and turned out well.
Mayor Christiansen thanked Chief Mailey for reminding everybody that they try to
resolve a lot of the issues in the Mayor’s Office, and he noted that they self-police the
Department and investigate and take a long hard look at their own. He asked what
recourse a person who files a complaint has to go above and beyond and make sure
their issue has been properly addressed. Responding, Chief Mailey explained that the
Department of Justice has an Office of Civil Rights and Public Trust that was started
a little over a year ago. He noted that two (2) young ladies work with this Office in
Dover and can receive complaints about police departments. Chief Mailey stated, for
example, that if he made a complaint against the Mayor because he thought the
Mayor stopped him for speeding because he is black, and the Police Department did
an investigation and said that the Mayor operated within his powers as a police
officer and did not find that he did anything wrong, Chief Mailey could go to the
Attorney General’s Office of Civil Rights and Public Trust and file a complaint about
the Police Department. He advised that this Office would launch an investigation,
do interviews, collect statements, and come to a conclusion at the end of their
investigation about how the Police Department operated. Chief Mailey explained
that if the Police Department was cleared by the Attorney General’s Office, the
complainant could contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which
investigates police departments all the time for profiling, excessive force, and things
of that nature. He advised that police departments come under a level of oversight
which is called a consent decree if they are found to be operating not in the public’s
best trust, and the federal government comes in and basically takes over the police
department and runs it for the agency. Chief Mailey stated that the federal
government looks through the police department’s records to see at what rate they are
stopping people, what they are arresting people for, what kind of force they are using,
if the officers are being properly trained, what supervision they are receiving, what
complaints are being received from the community, and how those complaints are
being entertained.
Chief Mailey noted that the Dover Police Department has been accredited by the
Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) seven (7)
times, most recently just last year, and CALEA comes in and looks at documentation
for all of their arrests, traffic stops, policies, procedures, and training principles. He
stated that if the Department is not in compliance, they do not receive re-
accreditation as a CALEA agency.
Mr. Sudler stated that, moving forward, he was still interested in having an annual
report, such as the Dover Police Department Internal Affairs Citizen Complaint
Statistical Summary. He advised that he respected what Chief Mailey was saying and
noted that no names had been mentioned. Mr. Sudler expressed his belief that it is
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ANNUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 14, 2018 PAGE 29
very important to show all aspects of community relations, and that this was a big
part of transparency and showed that members know that there are concerns, noting
that when there is a complaint they will have done their due diligence. He stated that
he was satisfied with how Chief Mailey had presented this information and that if
Chief Mailey felt it was too detailed they could dummy it down. Mr. Sudler advised
that he was looking forward to having something of this nature incorporated into the
Police Department’s annual report so that everyone can work together. He stated that
he did not want Chief Mailey to feel uncomfortable and that the Police Department
was doing a great job. Mr. Sudler noted that no one, including himself, is perfect, but
working on imperfections will make things perfect or a lot better in the City, the
community, and police relations. He advised that he was trying to strengthen
community relations in the Fourth District, which would reflect on the whole City of
Dover.
Chief Mailey stated that he agreed with Mr. Sudler regarding transparency, noting
that in 2015 or 2016 the Department had published their annual report from Internal
Affairs on their website, and he planned to do this with the Dover Police Department
Internal Affairs Citizen Complaint Statistical Summary 2015-2016-2017. He advised
that the report did not have too much information in it to put out there, although he
did not want to go into specific details regarding each incident because he thought
that too intrusive. Chief Mailey stated that he is all about transparency, as he and
Mr. Sudler had shared previously, and he did not think the Police Department was
doing anything wrong and did not have a problem with anyone looking. He advised
that the Department would put this report on their website so that everybody could
understand how many complaints they have fielded, the nature of those complaints,
and how they were resolved.
Mr. Polce asked how the Dover Police Department compared to other policing
agencies in Kent County, statewide, or nationally. Responding, Chief Mailey stated
that traditionally internal affairs reports are not published, displayed, or put out for
public consumption, noting that they could be requested through the Freedom of
Information Act (FOIA), and he did not know how the Department compares to other
agencies. He explained that larger police departments have internal affairs units and,
in the past, the Dover Police Department had conducted internal affairs investigations
for other agencies. Chief Mailey advised that complaints on officers are not the only
complaints that they look at, explaining that they also investigate officers internally
without receiving a complaint.
Chief Mailey stated that the Department looks at every use of force, and when an
officer fills out a use of force report, this goes through the chain of command to a
sergeant, a lieutenant, a captain, and to the major. He noted that the major reviews
it and makes sure that the use of force is within policy. Chief Mailey explained, for
instance, that if an officer tases someone, a use of force report is filled out, there
should be supporting evidence as far as pictures of any injuries where the probes
entered the suspect, and if there is any photographic evidence a photograph is taken.
He stated that an incident report is filled out every time an officer uses force.
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ANNUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 14, 2018 PAGE 30
Chief Mailey advised that a firearms discharge report is filled out every time an
officer uses his handgun, it doesn’t matter if they are doing it to kill an injured deer
or a rabid animal, and the report goes through the same chain to make sure how the
firearm is used, that its use is appropriate, and that everything is in the report. He
stated that he did not know how the Dover Police Department compares to other
agencies because this is not openly shared and is not something that chiefs talk about.
Chief Mailey indicated that they always know when an officer went over the line
because it typically takes place in the media and they hear about it by that means.
Chief Mailey noted that, as the Mayor had stated, the Department polices its own.
Chief Mailey advised that there are a lot of times when citizens don’t make
complaints and the Department is aware of violations and unfortunately has to arrest
and discharge its officers. He stated that they do not want a culture in a police
department of lawless behavior, unethical behavior, or misconduct.
In response to Mr. Polce, Chief Mailey advised that he was not aware of a national,
state, or county database with the percentage of substantiated claims versus those that
are not, but could look and report back on this. He stated that he had gone to several
Internal Affairs conferences and was not aware of any national database, like the FBI
maintains that involve shootings, etc.
Chief Mailey stated that the size of the Dover Police Department is approximately
100, although he does not have 100 officers working right now because of various
issues. He advised that it was not bad to have 19 as the highest number of
complaints in a year, looking at the size of the agency, the number of complaints
received each year from citizens, and keeping in mind that throughout the day there
are several hundred contacts between the community and police officers. Mr. Polce
stated that he had been planning to apply this logic and that this was a minute
percentage. He advised that he thought 14, five (5), and 19 claims per year, all of
which were unsubstantiated, was tremendous work. He stated that he agreed with
Mr. Sudler that this should be done in a transparent fashion and that an annual and
private report would be beneficial. He asked Chief Mailey to continue his great work
and to tell his officers to do so.
Mr. Anderson thanked Chief Mailey, and Mr. Sudler for bringing up the issue. He
also thanked the Department for making it easier and more accessible for complaints
to be filed, which can be done through the Department’s website and social media.
Mr. Anderson advised that people used to call him and say that they wanted to file
a complaint and did not know how, and he never gets those calls now. He stated that
a small rise in complaints may be a measure of success because this is more
accessible and people feel comfortable that they can make complaints and not be
retaliated against. Mr. Anderson advised that he saw this as part of transparency and
opening up and that it is a good thing that everyone is willing to talk about
complaints, investigate them appropriately, and get the appropriate result.
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ANNUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 14, 2018 PAGE 31
Chief Mailey informed members that, within the Department’s policies, officers have
to provide people with their full name and badge number if the person requests it and
do not have the option to refuse, so that a proper investigation can be conducted.
The Committee recommended acceptance of the report.
By consent agenda, Mr. Anderson moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Dover Police Cadet Program - Discussion of Official Cadet Duties Required
Under the Grant (Mr. Sudler)
Mr. Sudler stated that members had recently had a variety of presentations pertaining
to parking lot construction and economic growth and development; however, a
repetitive issue was safety concerns downtown, especially in the Fourth District. He
stated that, as a Fourth District Councilman, he thought that patrol officers or cadets
were needed on New, Queen, Fulton, or Kirkwood Streets, noting that he was sure
Mr. Anderson would concur. He asked if this was doable and, if not, what was
needed to make it doable, and what the scope is of the concentrated area that the
cadets patrol.
In response, Police Chief Marvin Mailey explained that when the cadet program was
first reborn, cadets were kept strictly on Loockerman Street as a visible presence to
move up and down and enforce City ordinance violations only. He noted that cadets
do not have powers of arrest because they are not police officers and are not trained
to make arrests. Chief Mailey advised that cadets have protective gear on them in
case they are assaulted, and they are there to observe, report, and take limited
enforcement action, issuing citations for City ordinance violations for open container,
panhandling, and things of that nature. He stated that the cadets are young people
who are not trained in law enforcement, so the Police Department tries to keep their
activities to Loockerman Street; events in Dover much like Comic-Con, with which
they assist; and directing traffic for parades. Chief Mailey advised that the cadets
perform extra duty for Firefly or NASCAR races, but the Department does not put
the cadets in neighborhoods where there is high crime.
Chief Mailey stated that Mr. Garfinkel had made the same request as Mr. Sudler, and
that the Department could do the same thing for the Fourth District that they did for
Mr. Garfinkel’s neighborhood. He explained that the Police Department has an
abundance of grant money for foot patrols and had been assigning extra foot patrols
to officers in neighborhoods. Chief Mailey advised that their approach to fighting
crime is to move about the City, doing enforcement in various areas with various
units to drive the crime rate down.
Chief Mailey stated that the Fourth District encompasses one (1) of the sectors or
districts that receives a steady diet of law enforcement by different departments. He
advised that one (1) day the motorcycle unit might be there, the next day the patrol
unit, and the next day the drug unit. Chief Mailey indicated that the cadets are not
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equipped and experienced enough to be in some of these neighborhoods, not because
the neighborhoods are bad, but sometimes crimes occur there. He noted that
shootings, fights, and things of this nature happen in Towne Point, Capitol Green,
Simon Circle, Manchester, and all over the City. Chief Mailey explained that cadets
are not put in those arenas because they’re not equipped to deal with that level of
criminal activity. He advised that officers are assigned to foot patrol those areas and
that when he was a rookie they used to walk what was called Dover Project, which
was a walking patrol downtown. Chief Mailey stated that two-man units used to
walk up and down the streets, speak to people, and be a presence in the
neighborhood. He stated that this is what the Department was planning to do, noting
that they have to spend the grant money by June or July, so there would be a lot of
police out doing extra duty and working, and the funds would not be coming out of
the Department’s overtime budget. Chief Mailey asked to be informed of specific
neighborhoods of concern and focused times when having officers in these areas
would be more beneficial, and the Department would provide the opportunity for
officers to sign up for extra duty. He noted that they cannot mandate officers to work
extra duty and officers work it as they want to on their time off. Chief Mailey stated
that officers like to be paid overtime, so someone would sign up and patrol the
neighborhoods.
Mr. Sudler stated that he had three (3) main areas of concern, and the first was in the
area of the liquor store near 33 West behind Wells Fargo at the parking lot and alley.
Chief Mailey noted that this is State Street Alley. Mr. Sudler advised that he has a
friend who works and lives in the area with her six-year-old daughter, and they are
often approached by panhandlers. He stated that a more severe concern was at the
Fulton Street Deli, noting that he had seen tremendous work there and the area had
been cleaned up a lot; however, he still sees a little activity there that could be
addressed, which would help keep trash and debris from being thrown there.
Mr. Sudler noted that he thought this area had improved 75% to 80% from a year and
a half ago, when he started to complain about it. He advised that he was still getting
a lot of calls about New Street, especially in the summertime, regarding individuals
standing or loitering in front of their homes or near porch areas. Mr. Sudler stated
that this had calmed down, noting that he rides through there occasionally and stops
to see what’s going on. He advised that he gets applause and appreciation from his
community about this area and can see a big difference, and he thanked Chief Mailey.
Chief Mailey stated that all of the areas Mr. Sudler mentioned are on the
Department’s radar screen, noting that Loockerman Street, State Street Alley, and
South Bradford Street are all patrol zones for the cadets. He advised that
Mr. Sudler’s concerns would be passed on and that Sergeant Hopkins supervises the
cadets and was currently in the corner of the room providing security during the
meeting. Chief Mailey stated that the police know what is going on at Fulton Street
and patrol that area heavily because they get a lot of calls. He advised that he rides
through New Street all the time, it is getting better, and it is not what it was five (5)
or ten years ago. Chief Mailey stated that the police walk a fine line there because
they do not want to be so heavy handed that they feel they are harassing people for
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just standing there. He explained that the police know that people like to stand and
talk, etc., and they don’t want people to feel like they can’t do this, but they have to
be very smart about enforcement. Chief Mailey noted that the police don’t want it
to seem like they are picking on a certain group of people just because they’re in that
area. He stated that some people stop there just to talk and some stop there for
criminal activity, and it is the Department’s job to figure out which one it is and that
is what they are doing.
Mr. Polce asked if the Department had been able to use the National Organization of
Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) Program at Delaware State University
(DSU) for the cadet program. Responding, Chief Mailey advised that the Department
has one (1) young man who is part of the NOBLE Program, is a cadet, and is one (1)
of their hopeful police applicants for the future. He stated that he is a member of
NOBLE himself, so he gets a chance to meet all the young people at DSU that are
part of this program. Chief Mailey advised that he would be participating in a town
hall meeting next Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at DSU, and members of DSU’s criminal
justice program would be in attendance.
Mr. Slavin noted that the cadet program was having retention issues, which were not
necessarily bad issues but showed that the City was putting quality people through
the program. He stated that he would be interested in having a conversation with the
Mayor and Chief Mailey about how to restructure the program to incentivize people
to stay on for a longer period of time and had some ideas. Responding, Chief Mailey
stated that he would be open to anything, noting that they have four (4) cadets out of
nine (9) positions, and three (3) are dedicated to the library. He stated that they try
to balance the Loockerman Street area and the library, which is their primary
assignment.
Mr. Lewis stated that clarification was needed with respect to what the cadets can and
can’t do under federal grant guidelines. In response, Chief Mailey advised that the
cadet program was restarted with $558,000 from the Neighborhood Building Block
Grant Fund in 2014 or 2015. He stated that, in 2015, the Police Department received
State Joint Finance Committee (JFC) funds which were used to continue the program
and there were no guidelines pertaining that funding. Chief Mailey stated that the
Police Department was no longer receiving any form of federal money or subsidy for
the cadet program and it was being funded by the City of Dover.
In response to Mr. Lewis, Chief Mailey stated that there was a possibility that cadets
could patrol some of the City parks when the Department gets up to full capacity with
cadets. He advised that when the program was previously fully staffed, the
Department was trying to add parks to patrol assignments. Chief Mailey noted that
the cadets are trained to ride police mountain bikes, and they will be seen patrolling
on those bikes in the summertime at Silver Lake and White Oak Parks. Chief Mailey
advised that he just wanted to get nine (9) good cadets out there.
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Mr. Sudler thanked Chief Mailey for being amenable and professional in all of the
presentations he had provided for members.
By consent agenda, Mr. Anderson moved for acceptance of the Council Committee of the
Whole Report, seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT - APRIL 25, 2018
The Economic Development Committee met on April 25, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. with
Mayor Christiansen presiding. Members present were Mr. Hudson (City Manager’s
designee) and Mr. Hugg. Mr. Hare, Mr. Cole, Ms. Evans, and Mr. Hammond were
absent.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Due to the lack of a quorum, the agenda was not adopted.
Mayor Christiansen stated that the rules would be suspended to allow
Mr. Mike Carney, Development Director, Junior Achievement of Delaware, to
provide an overview of the Junior Achievement (JA) Program.
Overview of the Junior Achievement Program - Workforce and Economic
Development Benefits (Mike Carney)
Mayor Christiansen noted his daughter had been to Junior Achievement (JA) with a
fifth grade class from William Henry Middle School, and she had suggested finding
a way to bring the program to Dover. He stated that he thought a local JA location
would be a great success. Mr. Mike Carney, Development Director, Junior
Achievement of Delaware, explained that JA is working on a plan to bring the
program to Sussex County, which would allow those in Kent County to participate
in either Sussex County or Wilmington.
Responding to Mr. Kirby Hudson, Assistant City Manager, Mr. Carney stated that the
JA Office is located near Route 13 in Wilmington and suggested that Mr. Hudson
visit the facility.
In response to Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Carney stated that JA has a great relationship
with Delaware State University (DSU). He advised that he had been to DSU earlier
in the day in regard to JA’s Get Set Program. Mr. Carney explained that this program
has 80 students with intellectual difficulties, high on the autism spectrum, who were
working on job skills, such as setting tables, sorting coins, shredding and separating
mail, stocking shelves, etc.
Mayor Christiansen suggested that Mr. Carney speak with Ms. Donna Covington,
Dean, College of Business, DSU, and Mr. Carney stated that they had had that
conversation and DSU has a finance kiosk in JA’s Finance Park simulation.
Mr. Carney provided a handout entitled, Junior Achievement/Delaware Pathways
Career Funnel and explained that JA has a Financial Literacy track, where students
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learn about checkbooks, credit scores, credit, buying a car, and obtaining mortgages
and insurance. Mr. Carney advised that students attend 12 weeks of classroom
sessions at their own schools taught by JA teachers using JA’s curriculum. He
indicated that DSU was going to integrate some of their students into this program
and work with JA. Mr. Carney stated that after the 12 weeks students attend JA and
have to balance a 21 line item budget using a tablet. He explained that students are
given different scenarios, for example, someone with a salary of $100,000 and three
(3) children, someone with a salary of $40,000 per year with two (2) children, or
someone with a salary of $120,000 with one (1) child. Mr. Carney advised that
students have different personas and perspectives and go through the line items on
the tablet. He noted that they have to buy groceries, buy or rent a car or take public
transportation, and buy a house or be declined on a mortgage.
Mr. Dave Hugg, Director of Planning and Community Development, asked if
students who come through the program have special needs and requirements.
Responding, Mr. Carney stated that the JA event at DSU that he had referred to was
a special event; however, JA serves everyday elementary through high school
students up and down the State and had been serving them for 60 years. He noted
that JA has a lot of relationships with schools, who automatically bring their students
every year, and the whole class attends. Mr. Carney explained that JA’s Finance Park
pathway is for seventh graders.
Mr. Carney informed members that JA’s BizTown pathway is for fifth and sixth
graders, who come to JA after 12 weeks of lessons in the classroom and learn how
to run a business. He indicated that each operation has a Chief Finance Officer
(CFO) and a Chief Operating Officer (COO), and students learn about company
culture, what it's like to work there, what's expected, and what some of the different
salary packages are, and they run a business. Mr. Carney explained that in the
classroom students go through newspaper want ads and apply for and get a job. He
stated that a student may come to JA as a water person from Tidewater Utilities, with
a hard hat and a jacket. Mr. Carney advised that Tidewater Utilities has a kiosk, and
this student takes water readings from all the kiosks in BizTown, takes them back to
the office, turns gallons into dollars, and sends everyone in the different kiosks a bill.
He stated that there is an attorney, a prothonotary, a mayor, and a city council, and
they take votes. Mr. Carney advised that the News-Journal, iHeartRadio, New Castle
County Public Safety and Recorder of Deeds, and a print shop are all at BizTown,
and different businesses are sponsored by like businesses.
Responding to Mr. Hugg, Mr. Carney stated that not every fifth grader in the school
district goes through this program but just those schools that have signed up. He
stated that JA would like all students to attend and is working with Delaware
Technical and Community College (Del Tech) and the Department of Education to
get all students in eighth grade to go through Finance Park, noting that this is JA’s
first benchmark.
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Mr. Hugg stated that it is amazing how many young people graduate from high
school and don't know how to write a check or make change, or don't have a bank
account. Mr. Carney advised that young people do not understand debt, credit, or
what it's like to get a loan. He indicated that young people and a lot of adults do not
know what a credit score is, noting that those who have never borrowed money may
never come across this.
Responding to Mr. Hugg, Mr. Carney stated that in order to bring the program in a
more intense manner to Kent County they would need available space and financial
support to build out a space similar to what they have in Wilmington, but less
elaborate. He indicated that they plan to go to Del Tech in Georgetown in Sussex
County and set up small kiosks with office partitions in a stretch of rooms there.
Mr. Carney advised that there could be 10 different finance agencies, banks, and
home repair businesses, and sponsors to back them up, such as Goldman Brothers for
home improvements, Delmarva Power for energy, and Delaware City for gas. He
advised that JA’s big push is to go to Sussex County and they are waiting to hear
about a grant they had written to the Longwood Foundation. Mr. Carney stated that
the cost would probably be a couple of hundred thousand dollars. Mr. Hugg asked
if this would be a one-time or an annual investment. Responding, Mr. Carney stated
that this is a two-year arrangement and JA would have to carry it from there through
sponsorship. He noted that the Capital School District pays JA an amount per
student when their students go through the program.
Mr. Hugg stated that infrastructure seemed to be available at the DSU University
Center for Economic Development and International Trade (UCEDIT). He noted that
DSU, Wilmington University, Wesley College, and Del Tech had all created job-
focused pathways and were interested in assuming a greater role in Delaware.
Mr. Hugg advised that they felt isolated from the greater community and were
reaching out to establish an identity and purpose. He expressed his belief that getting
something like JA to happen in Dover would not be all that difficult.
Mr. Carney suggested coming to see what JA has in Wilmington and thinking about
what it would take to scale it back, noting that space is a consideration. He advised
that different kiosks have to be added and dressed up, and there is a need to make
sure volunteers are there every week. Mr. Carney explained that when an elementary
school comes to BizTown, they bring five (5) or 10 parents and three (3) or four (4)
teachers, and JA volunteers and staff help manage the event for four (4) hours.
Mayor Christiansen advised that Kent County Levy Court had put space aside for a
business incubator for the Kent Economic Partnership (KEP) that was not being used.
He indicated that it may be possible to use the incubator space for a small version of
JA so that JA would have a permanent presence, noting that the program could
possibly be included as part of the role of the KEP.
Responding to Mr. Carney, Mr. Hugg stated that he was unsure of the size of the
incubator space, which was designed for small business and is divisible into little
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ANNUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 14, 2018 PAGE 37
pods. Mr. Hugg advised that this location has the advantage of having parking, is
easy to get to, and is a public building with security.
Mr. Carney stated that they could arrange to look at it. He noted that JA pathways
were already being created with Del Tech and they want to make sure that students
are engaged with programs from bio-pharmaceuticals to diesel mechanics, finance,
marketing, power plants for jet engines, framing, and processing plants. Mr. Carney
noted that these careers pay well and not every student is cut out for a university or
college. He indicated that a bad job is done of guiding and counseling students, and
school counselors tell students they must go to a four-year college. Mr. Carney
advised that students come out of a college or university with a $150,000 payment
and cannot invest in the market or a house since they have invested in the education
that is already behind them.
Mayor Christiansen suggested that he, Mr. Hugg, or both of them assist Mr. Carney
in going to look at the space at the Kent County incubator.
Mr. Carney provided a handout entitled, “2016-17 Students Served by County” and
pointed out the schools that JA serves in Kent County. He stated that he was sure
there was room for growth from the almost 2,400 students currently being served in
Kent County to 5,000 or 6,000. Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Carney
stated that JA does not serve Kent or Caroline Counties in Maryland. He advised that
Cecil County, Maryland, is their franchise district and they also serve the three (3)
counties of Delaware and Salem County, New Jersey. Mr. Carney stated that
Salisbury has JA; however, he was unsure what this program is called and where it
is based.
Mr. Hugg noted that there were a number of students participating from the Capital
School District. Mr. Carney stated that JA could probably serve more schools in
Smyrna. He indicated that they are currently serving 2,400 students in Kent County
who do not mind the drive up to Wilmington and JA must look at the up side and
what they would get if JA was in Dover.
Mr. Hugg noted that the Kent County building is only 10 minutes away from most
local schools. Mr. Carney indicated that there would be advantages to having all
three (3) counties represented by JA, but JA would have to weigh where to locate it.
Mayor Christiansen stated that a local location might pick up students from Sussex
County, Georgetown, Rehoboth, Sussex Central, Woodbridge, Laurel, Seaford, and
Indian River. He noted that Caesar Rodney and Lake Forest School Districts are also
in Kent County districts.
Responding to Mr. Carney, Mayor Christiansen stated that Georgetown Del Tech is
approximately 38 miles and an hour from Dover. Mr. Hugg indicated that Del
Tech’s Owens Campus in Georgetown is a good central site in Sussex County but is
a long way from Smyrna. Mr. Carney noted that there would be advantages to having
all three (3) counties represented and JA had to weigh where would be the better
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place for their program. He indicated that his boss has already determined that they
wanted the Georgetown location. Mr. Carney stated that a program could be put in
Dover; however, it would take resources to get that done, and space would be one (1)
of the biggest parts of that.
Responding to Mr. Hugg, Mr. Carney stated that JA would be looking for donated
or sponsored space. Mayor Christiansen stated that the County and KEP had already
sponsored the incubator space and would be able to say that they were sponsoring
Junior Achievement if it were there. Mr. Carney stated that this would be incredible
and that they could get every school here to participate, including not just fifth
graders but sixth through eight graders, and there may also be the ability to merge the
program into the high schools. He suggested obtaining some numbers for his
supervisor regarding all of the elementary, middle, and high schools that JA could
reach.
Mayor Christiansen noted that the Capital School District has a elementary school
program called Mini Society for first, second, third, and fourth graders where
students develop a product, marketing, and sales. Mr. Carney compared this to the
JA Company program. He estimated that this program has approximately 400
students in the current year and advised that JA wants to have 1,000 students in the
program by 2021.
Mayor Christiansen asked Mr. Carney to work with Mr. Hugg to schedule a date to
review Kent County’s incubator space. Mr. Hugg stated that he would try to obtain
information about the size of the incubator space and requested that Mr. Carney send
an email regarding the figures he needed regarding local school populations.
Mayor Christiansen requested that Mr. Hugg communicate with Mr. Mike Petit de
Manage, Kent County Administrator, regarding this matter.
By consent agenda, Mr. Anderson moved for acceptance of the Economic Development
Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
MONTHLY REPORTS - MARCH 2018
By motion of Mr. Anderson, seconded by Mr. Neil, the following monthly reports were
accepted by consent agenda:
City Assessor's Report
City Council’s Community Enhancement Fund Report
City Manager's Report
City Planner's Report
Controller/Treasurer's Budget Report
Fire Chief's Report (February and March)
Police Chief's Report
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ANNUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 14, 2018 PAGE 39
QUARTERLY REVIEW - CAPITAL INVESTMENT PLAN (CIP)
Members were provided the Capital Investment Plan as of March 31, 2018.
By consent agenda, Mr. Anderson moved for acceptance of the Capital Investment Plan as of
March 31, 2018. The motion was seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call
vote.
QUARTERLY REVIEW - PASSPORT ACCEPTANCE FACILITY OPERATIONS AND
REVENUES
Members were provided the Passport Acceptance Facility Operations and Revenues as of
April 6, 2018.
By consent agenda, Mr. Anderson moved for acceptance of the Passport Acceptance Facility
Operations and Revenues as of April 6, 2018. The motion was seconded by Mr. Neil and
carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
SETTING OF PUBLIC HEARINGS - ELECTRIC FUND BUDGET AND RESOLUTION
NO. 2018-04 APPROVING ISSUANCE OF CERTAIN BONDS OR NOTES BY ROBBINS
HOSE COMPANY NO. 1 OF DOVER, DELAWARE
Staff recommended that the Public Hearings be set for June 11, 2018 at 7:30 p.m.
Mr. Hare moved for approval of Staff’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Neil and
unanimously carried.
2018/19 CITY COUNCIL ANNUAL STAFF APPOINTMENTS
By consent agenda, Mr. Anderson moved for approval of the Staff Appointments for
2018/2019, seconded by Mr. Neil and, by a unanimous roll call vote, the following
appointments were made:
City Assessor - Cheryl A. Bundek
Building Inspector - David S. Hugg III
City Clerk - Traci A. McDowell
Assistant City Clerk - Denise L. Devine
Controller/Treasurer - Lori Peddicord
Assistant Controller/Treasurer - Vacant
Assistant Treasurers - Denise L. Devine
- Traci A. McDowell
Fire Marshal - Jason A. Osika
City Solicitor - Nicholas H. Rodriguez
Deputy City Solicitor - William W. Pepper, Sr.
2018/19 COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNUAL APPOINTMENTS
By motion of Mr. Slavin, seconded by Mr. Hare, the 2018/2019 Council President Annual
Appointments were deferred unanimously.
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ANNUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 14, 2018 PAGE 40
2018/19 MAYORAL ANNUAL APPOINTMENTS
By consent agenda, Mr. Anderson moved to defer the 2018/19 Mayoral Annual Appointments
until June 11, 2018. The motion was seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll
call vote.
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-02 AUTHORIZING SIGNATURES FOR BANKING SERVICES
ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE - CONTROLLER/TREASURER
AND ASSISTANT TREASURERS
By consent agenda, Mr. Anderson moved for adoption of Resolution No. 2018-02. The motion
was seconded by Mr. Neil and, by a unanimous roll call vote, Council adopted the following
Resolution:
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SIGNATURES FOR BANKING SERVICES ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE
WHEREAS, the City of Dover's investment policy includes the investment of funds up to $100,000
per banking institution, investments in the State of Delaware Investment Pool, and the purchase and
sale of investment grade corporate bonds, and U.S. Treasury and agency securities; and
WHEREAS, the banking institutions, brokerage firms, trust companies, and other various financial
institutions require an Authorizing Resolution for the opening of accounts, and for purchasing,
selling, transferring, assigning, and handling securities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the City of Dover, that
the Controller/Treasurer and Assistant Treasurers are hereby authorized to open accounts with
banking institutions and purchase, sell, transfer, assign, and handle securities and that they are
authorized to sign all related forms;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the transactions in these accounts be carried out with any one
signature; and
That the following are the office holders authorized for these purposes, until further notice:
Lori Peddicord - Controller/Treasurer
Denise L. Devine - Assistant Treasurer
Traci A. McDowell - Assistant Treasurer
ADOPTED: MAY 14, 2018
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-03 APPROVING THE 2018 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) ANNUAL ACTION PLAN
Members were provided the 2018 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Annual Action
Plan.
Mr. Anderson asked if the requirements for the two public hearings were fulfilled. Responding,
Mr. Dave Hugg, Director of Planning and Community Development, stated that Mrs. Tracey Harvey,
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ANNUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 14, 2018 PAGE 41
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Coordinator for the City of Dover was not able to
attend the meeting. He noted that the procedural requirements were, in fact, satisfied by actions of
the staff, and the way they addressed this item this year was because they did not have the final US
housing and revenue development allocation numbers at the time it came before them. Mr. Hugg
stated that he could not recall whether the requirement that it go before the Parks, Recreation, and
Community Development Committee was in fact met or not. He noted that Ms. Denise Devine,
Assistant City Clerk, did some research late that afternoon and could add some clarity.
Ms. Devine stated that, as Mr. Hugg indicated, the 2018 Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) Annual Action Plan was presented to the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement
Committee in March to review the applications for the allocation of funds.
Mr. Hugg advised that the action plan has the approval of HUD in terms of their ability to implement
it for this coming year; however, if Council so desires, there may be a value in sending it back
through the Committee just for any additional input.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Hugg requested, because they now have the final allocation
from HUD and can begin to make awards, that this be on the Committee's agenda at its earliest
possible time.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Mrs. Traci McDowell, City Clerk, stated that she did not believe enough
notice would be provided if this item was placed on the agenda for the following evening.
Mr. Anderson moved to refer this item to the Parks, Recreation, and Community
Enhancement Committee with a meeting to be held within two (2) weeks to avoid delay. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried.
(City Clerk’s Office Note: Members of Council were provided documentation that all requirements
had been met. This item was reconsidered and Resolution No. 2018-03 Approving the 2018
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Annual Action Plan was adopted during the Special
Council Meeting of May 29, 2018.)
ANNEXATION/REZONING REQUEST/FIRST READING OF PROPOSED
ORDINANCE #2018-04
A request was received for annexation and rezoning of property located at 3074 North DuPont
Highway, consisting of 0.69 +/- acres, owned by Jesse L. Allen. The property is currently zoned BG
- General Business District (Kent County zoning classification) and the proposed zoning is C-4 -
Highway Commercial (City of Dover zoning classification). Staff recommended that the request be
referred to the Utility Committee on June 12, 2018; the Planning Commission on June 18, 2018; and
that a Public Hearing be set for July 9, 2018 at 7:30 p.m. (Tax Parcel: ED-00-057.02-01-04.00-000;
Planning Reference: AX-18-01; Council District: 3)
Mr. Sudler moved for referral, as recommended, seconded by Mr. Lewis and unanimously carried.
In accordance with Section 1-9 of the Dover Code, Council acknowledged the First Reading of the
proposed Ordinance as read by the City Clerk by title only, as follows:
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ANNUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 14, 2018 PAGE 42
ORDINANCE #2018-04 AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE
CITY OF DOVER BY CHANGING THE ZONING DESIGNATION OF PROPERTY LOCATED
AT 3074 NORTH DUPONT HIGHWAY
CITY MANAGER'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, City Manager, made no announcements.
COUNCIL MEMBERS' ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Anderson thanked all of the members of law enforcement, noting that Law Enforcement Officers
Week was coming up. He stated that the work that is being done to keep our communities safe is
vital and, without their work and putting their lives on the line at times, our communities would be
unlivable. Mr. Anderson also noted that Armed Services Day was on May 18th and he thanked all
those who serve or who have served to keep this nation safe. He advised that Mission Barbecue
would be providing free food. Mr. Anderson thanked Mayor Christiansen for issuing a proclamation
for Military Spouse Appreciation Day.
Mr. Anderson suggested looking at a different procedure that would engage more people for the
selection of Council President, noting that he had been hearing from constituents on the issue.
Mr. Lindell thanked and complimented the various community groups that presented that evening,
including the Kent Chamber Choir, the young leaders at Town Point Elementary School with
Principal Tory Giddons at the helm, and the JROTC of Dover High School. He wished
Major Murphy and Sergeant Harry Menwell well on their retirement. Mr. Lindell stated that he had
a chance to work with them and it is a great organization with awesome kids, which he thought was
a testament to their leadership and dedication.
Mr. Lindell announced that he had the chance to attend Wesley College's graduation and listen to
Mr. Paul Stanley speak the previous Saturday. He noted that he also got to say hi to Coach Drass
as well, sadly for the last time. Mr. Lindell sent his condolences to Coach Drass's family, and those
at Wesley College as well. He noted that it is a huge loss, and a huge loss for Dover as well.
Mr. Lindell stated that he had the chance to attend the Biggs Silver Anniversary Gala with the Mayor
and two of his colleagues, Councilman Hare and Councilman Polce. He noted that he also attended
the Village of Westover homeowner's meeting about a week and a half ago, and looking at some of
the issues within the community. Mr. Lindell encouraged other communities to post their meeting
dates, noting that he would like to get out to as many of those homeowner's meetings as possible.
Mr. Lewis announced that the following Thursday at 6:00 p.m. he, in conjunction with the Fire
Department, would be offering a CPR AED basic first aid awareness class. A member of the fire
department is going to be there discussing fire safety and awareness. Mr. Lewis advised that it is
open to members of the community, it is free, and he was doing it as a certified level three CPR AED
instructor.
Mr. Hare announced that Thursday night from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Dover Downs the
organization Gals That Give is having their monthly charity event. He noted that the recipient this
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month is the Delaware Military Support Organization. Mr. Hare encouraged all the young ladies to
attend.
Mr. Hare moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:34 p.m.
TRACI A. McDOWELL
CITY CLERK
All ordinances, resolutions, motions, and orders adopted by City Council during their Annual
Meeting of May 14, 2018, are hereby approved.
ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
MAYOR
/TM/jt
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