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Paj 1
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
AGENDA
THURSDAY, July 19, 2018 - 3:00 P.M.
City Hall – Conference Room
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MEETING on May 17, 2018
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
1. Summary of Activity
a. Summary of Applications 2017-2018
b. Summary of Architectural Review Certifications for 2018
2. Department of Planning & Inspections Update
NEW APPLICATIONS – None
NEW BUSINESS
1. Review of Permits Referred to Commission
a. HI-18-02 Referral of Demolition Permit #18-1104: Accessory Structure at 12 Kings
Highway NE– Update on Review Status of Architectural Review Certification for
Demolition Permit application #18-1104 for project to demolish accessory building.
The property is zoned R-8 (One-Family Residence Zone) and is subject to the H
(Historic District Zone). The property is located on the south side of Kings Highway
NE/Division Street and west of intersection with Kent Avenue. The owner of record
is Elizabeth W. Murphey School Inc. Property Address:12 Kings Highway NE. Tax
Parcel: ED-05077.05-04-47.01-000.
b. Other Permits Referred
2. Certified Local Government (CLG) Program
a. Update on Submission of FFY2018 CLG Grant Application
3. Project for Dover’s 2019 Comprehensive Plan
a. Update on Project Activities
b. Evaluation of 2008 Goals and Recommendations
ADJOURN
THE AGENDA ITEMS MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED IN SEQUENCE. THIS AGENDA IS SUBJECT TO
CHANGE TO INCLUDE THE ADDITION OR THE DELETION OF ITEMS, INCLUDING EXECUTIVE SESSION.
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CITY OF DOVER
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
May 17, 2018
The Regular Meeting of the City of Dover Historic District Commission was held on Thursday,
May 17, 2018 at 3:00 PM with Chairman McDaniel presiding. Members present were Chairman
McDaniel, Mr. Czerwinski, Mr. Street, Ms. Horsey and Ms. Mason.
Planning Office Staff members present were Mrs. Melson-Williams, Mrs. Purnell, Mr. Swierczek,
and Mr. Hugg.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mr. Street moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Czerwinski and the motion was
unanimously carried 5-0.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES OF THE REGULAR HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
MEETING OF FEBRUARY 15, 2018
Mr. Street moved for approval of the minutes of February 15, 2018, seconded by Ms. Horsey and
the motion was unanimously carried 5-0.
Chairman McDaniel welcomed new Historic District Commission member Ms. Mary Terry
Mason.
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
Summary of Activity 2017 Report
Summary of Applications for 2017
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that there were four (4) items that were raised to the levels of a formal
application. There were two (2) Permits that were referred by Staff during the last calendar year.
There was one (1) application in December that dealt with the Governor’s Café Kitchen Addition.
They have since been to the Planning Commission and have conditional approval for the
expansion; it is in the Check Print review process.
Chairman McDaniel questioned why it received conditional approval. Mrs. Melson-Williams
replied that when the Planning Commission acts on the Site Plan it is subject to the conditions of
meeting the comments from the other reviewing agencies. At this point, it is an administrative
process for that plan application where Planning Staff checks to make sure corrections were made
to the plan.
Mr. Czerwinski commented that it was conditional because it is still a residential business and
conditional for a certain type of food. Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that the property is zoned RGO
(Residence General Office) and because the property is in the Historic District there are number
of uses additionally that can be allowed through the Conditional Use process. Meaning it has a
specialized public hearing in front of the Planning Commission. This was in place for the current
café’ restaurant activity, but because they were expanding (adding onto the kitchen) that is the
reason it had to go back to the Planning Commission. It does not expand their seat count; it just
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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION MAY 17, 2018
expands what they will be able to cook in the kitchen due to having different equipment.
Mr. Czerwinski questioned whether their approval included the front lawn. Mrs. Melson-Williams
replied that they showed some opportunities for tent activities for Special Events (example:
wedding). It was for initial review because anytime they would want to do the Special Event there
is a specialized process with the Fire Marshal’s Office to place the tent on a specific date for a
specific event.
Mr. Czerwinski asked about outdoor seating. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that there is no
permanent outdoor seating in that area other than on the porch.
Summary of Architectural Review Certifications for 2018
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated with the Architectural Review Certifications for 2018, there were
fourteen (14) Permits in the Historic District, nine (9) in which Staff was able to grant approval
under the provision of the Zoning Ordinance and five (5) of them were interior work only. There
were four (4) signage permits.
Chairman McDaniel questioned whether the Commission would be notified when the fireman’s
monument would be moved on Legislative Mall. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that it went
through the Permit process, but it is not covered because it is not a building. The Capital Complex
is within the boundaries of the Historic District.
There was a brief discussion regarding the memorial/public art installation for the volunteer
firefighter’s memorial on the southwest corner near 410 Legislative Avenue on Legislative Mall.
Information on Required City of Dover Ethics Training Sessions
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that this is a training session that is required of all members of the
boards and commissions, elected and appointed officials for the City and City Staff. There are a
series of different meeting session times. Please let the Planning Office know as soon as possible
which session you would like to attend. Everyone is required to attend. The sessions will be held
in the City Hall Council Chambers. The May 24, 2018 and June 5, 2018 sessions are full. There
were some changes made to Chapter 30 of the Dover Code on Ethics and part of that now
requires annual ethics training.
NEW BUSINESS
Resolution for Charles T. “Terry” Jackson, II- Former member, Chairman, and Vice Chairman
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that included in the packet was a resolution for Mr. Charles T.
“Terry” Jackson, II who was a part of the first group of commissioners appointed to the Historic
District Commission when it was established in 1993. He served as Chair for a significant
number of years and Vice Chairman for a few years. He basically has seen the whole life of this
Commission. The Historic District existed prior to the 90’s, but the responsibilities did not
include the establishment of a Commission at that time. There were a number of things the
Planning Commission was charged with doing (from 1960-1993).
Chairman McDaniel moved for approval to accept the Resolution for Charles T. “Terry”
Jackson, II. The motion was seconded by Ms. Horsey and unanimously carried 5-0.
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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION MAY 17, 2018
Review of Permits Referred to Commission: There was none.
Certified Local Government (CLG) Program
a. Submission of CLG Annual Report (October 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017)
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that included in your packet was the cover submission, forms, new
members information (resume), meeting the requirements and standards. It is really a reporting
of activities that happened in that timeframe. Permit activity information is also submitted as
well as any new National Register nominations or new initiatives for anything in the Historic
District. In addition, all copies of meeting agendas and meeting minutes from that timeframe are
submitted.
Ms. Horsey thanked Mrs. Melson-Williams for putting it all together.
b. Update on FFY2017 CLG Grant Project: Amendment to Design Guidelines for Dover’s
Historic District (Addendum to Design Standards & Guidelines for the City of Dover
Historic District Zone: Modern Materials & Technologies)
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that this was intended to be a project to select a consultant service
to work and focus on the Design Standards & Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District
Zone: Modern Materials & Technologies. Staff ultimately made the decision that with what was
left in the Grant year they did not think that it was fiscally possible to retain consulting services
and have them complete the project and have all of it finished by June 30, 2018. Staff met with
the State Historic Preservation Office regarding scaling down the scope, but for the whole
process for bringing someone on board to do the work was not enough time. Staff chose to
terminate the Grant. There was no expenditure of funds. Staff has a draft of the project that they
could focus on in the future. Included was the quarterly progress report through the end of March
and the decision to terminate the Grant. They were also informed that during this Grant year
there was significant transition in membership on the Commission and the Staff workload just in
general in the Planning Office has not allowed them to focus on the project.
Chairman McDaniel asked if the Commission had the chance to get the money back. Mrs.
Melson-Williams replied that the CLG program offers grants each year, so it could certainly be a
future grant.
Chairman McDaniel asked if the money was gone. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that it was a
reimbursable grant, basically you had to spend the money and then ask for reimbursement. There
was money held on the match side of it in the City budget.
Mr. Czerwinski asked if this was the second time this has happened with the grant project. Mrs.
Melson-Williams replied yes.
Mr. Czerwinski asked if they were looking at the timeframe issue (the time to get the project
approved and the time to complete the project). Is it too short of a window to even outsource this
project? Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that the timeframe for the grant starts July 1. They do
match up with the City’s regular fiscal year. We did not start drafting the RFP (Request for
Proposal) until late fall.
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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION MAY 17, 2018
Mr. Czerwinski asked if they could start now using the material that they have and be ready for
the next time. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied yes. It has to go out through a Request for
Professional Services. The amount of money makes it a little simpler on the bid procurement side
for the City who has its own process with grant requirements. It is a complicated process. You
cannot advertise for a consultant until after the grant year has started.
Mr. Czerwinski asked about networking. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that Staff talked to the
State Historic Preservation Office regarding types of firms that they thought could handle and
focus on this type of project. On a consultant side, this is a small project.
Ms. Mason asked for example if the City would match the funding of $5000. Chairman
McDaniel replied yes, the City would match the funds of $5000 making the total grant $10,000.
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that since the Historic District Commission did not use the funds as
a CLG, (Certified Local Government) they may be able to redistribute the funds to other CLGs if
they had budget over runs. Larger CLGs such as the City of Wilmington or New Castle County
use the funds for staffing where they have a person in their Planning Office where preservation is
the only thing that they do. Some of their projects have been ongoing surveys.
Mr. Czerwinski asked if funds were used for staffing, what would keep the City of Dover from
hiring a graduate student to do the project while they work with the SHPO office. Mrs. Melson-
Williams replied that you can ask for grant funds to support staff or an intern. This type of
project requires to have a Principal Investigator that meets one of the Secretary of Interior’s
qualification standards, so probably an intern would probably not be doing that. It would mean
that someone like herself would need to be the Principal Investigator on the project. It is entirely
possible that we could focus on some type of intern type effort for a future grant.
The Commission members had a brief discussion regarding the hiring of an intern.
There was additional discussion regarding the project information listed above.
c. Information on Submission of FFY2018 CLG Grant Application
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that included in the packet was the notice of opening of the Grant
Application process and the rules about the Grant Application. The State of Delaware Historic
Preservation Office receives a certain amount of money from the Federal Historic Preservation
Funds. Whatever that number is they are then required to grant to the Certified Local
Government in the State 10% of their federal dollars coming in. The other federal dollars are
used in operating their office along with other state funds. The allocation then looks at how many
CLG’s they have so everyone gets a certain base line amount based on their population and
anything above that depends on what they have coming in (any given year) from the federal
government.
Mr. McDaniel asked if there were seven (7) CLG’s. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied yes, there are
only seven (7) CLG’s in the State. That number can always increase.
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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION MAY 17, 2018
Mrs. Melson-Williams also stated that it moves into the grant requirements and the types of
eligible grant activities. The grant does not fix or build historic buildings. The eligible grant
activities include surveying, National Register nominations, planning types, commission and
staff training, public outreach and what they call support for CLG staff; and then there is the
application forms.
Mrs. Melson-Williams handed out a copy of the information that was submitted on May 11,
2018 for the grant for the next fiscal year. The City was eligible for grant monies exceeding what
they ended up asking for. What Staff proposed as a project was to focus on the update of the
Historic Preservation Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan. The City’s Comprehensive Plan for
2008 is due for an update. One of the required elements is the chapter on Historic Preservation.
The proposal was submitted to utilize some grant monies to focus specifically on that. The
project consists of two (2) things: dedication of Planning Staff to update the chapter and to host a
public outreach workshop specifically on historic preservation. It will focus on preparing this
chapter, but we also see it as an educational opportunity about historic preservation and the
Historic District in Dover. Money was also included for very specific number of hours for the
Principal Planner to work on the project. The other monies are related to advertising the
workshop and printing of brochures and postage.
Mrs. Melson-Williams spoke briefly about the project narrative. The intent is to invite everyone
who owns property in the Historic District. There are over 300 properties that are within the
Historic District or listed on the National Register of Historical places throughout other parts of
the City. Planning Staff will be working on planning a public outreach workshop probably in the
month of July.
Mr. McDaniel asked if it was being preloading and if they were going to get some money next
fiscal year. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that it is somewhat preloaded. In the next nine months
as a staff, we must focus on the Comprehensive Plan and it has a preservation component. Staff
will receive some funding.
Mr. McDaniel asked what amount was applied for. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that the total
project cost is $4000, and we are seeking a grant of $2400.
Mr. McDaniel asked if the City will match. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied yes. We have in the
City’s budget a Budget request to make that match happen. The City starts budget review the last
week of May with City Council. It has been included in the Department’s request to the City
Manager. The City Manager’s Draft Budget has not been released.
Mr. McDaniel asked if this was part of the City’s Comprehensive Plan and Update. Mrs. Melson-
Williams replied yes.
Mr. McDaniel mentioned the feedback on page 54 regarding the Historic Preservation and the
removal of the Loockerman Street corridor and asked everyone to read it if they had not already
done so for awareness.
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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION MAY 17, 2018
Mrs. Melson-Williams also noted that there would be a Grant Agreement forthcoming in the
future.
Mr. Czerwinski asked who rewrites the update of the chapter. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that
the labor of rewriting the chapter will be Planning Staff time that will also include her time. The
entire Comprehensive Plan project is in-house.
Mr. Czerwinski asked if the Commission members would be involved in updating the
Comprehensive Plan. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied yes.
Project for Dover’s 2019 Comprehensive Plan
a. Introduction to 2008 Comprehensive Plan as amended, Chapter 6 – Historic
Preservation
b. Update on Project Activities
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that the existing Comprehensive Plan for the City dates to
2008. It is a Staff project. Their approach to information gathering on the various chapters is
varied. Some of it is outreach with different State Agencies. With the Economic Development
Chapter, Mr. Hugg has been working with the several of the colleges and universities. There will
be an Economic Symposium that is scheduled for June 13, 2018 in late morning over lunch
timeframe.
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that Chapter 6-Historic Preservation as it exists was included
in the packet. She referred to the action items on page 62 and asked members to read through the
material. We have worked on the action items over the last 8 years. The most significant change
would be looking at whether there were any changes to the goals and recommendations and what
are the future action type items and map component.
c. Evaluation of 2008 Goals and Recommendations
Mrs. Melson- Williams mentioned this item will be homework for the members. As part of
preparing the next plan, they are looking back at the 2008 Plan. She asked the members to look
at the attached chart and focus on the goals of all the chapters and your thoughts on the chapters,
specifically, the evaluation of importance. She asked if they could do a rating of 1-5 which is
included. There is also an opportunity for comments. They have included all the goals as the
homework assignments.
Mr. Street asked if she wanted them to do the whole thing or the Historic Preservation section.
Mrs. Melson-Williams replied the whole thing because they want to know what you think about
all of it.
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that the same assignment was given to the Planning
Commission members.
Mr. Street asked what this was related to and what to focus on (what’s important and not
important). Mrs. Melson-Williams replied as part of the whole Comprehensive Plan process they
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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION MAY 17, 2018
are in the process of developing a survey. There is a similar package of charts for
recommendations that she will give to the members. The Staff homework is to go through the
action items listed in the Comprehensive Plan.
Mr. Czerwinski asked if the Commission should be meeting outside of this meeting for
discussion as a committee. Mr. McDaniel replied that he thinks the first thing to do is read it.
Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that they will be reporting back to the Commission. This is a City
Plan so there will be public input. The Comprehensive Plan has to go through a public hearing
and review process.
Mr. McDaniel mentioned that the City does a great job with the public input. He attended the
Dover Parks seminar last night.
Mr. McDaniel mentioned the importance of attending the mandatory Ethics Training.
Mr. Street moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Ms. Horsey and unanimously carried 5-0.
Meeting adjourned at 3:57 PM
Sincerely,
Maretta Savage-Purnell
Secretary
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City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2017
Updated thru June 30, 2018
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-17-01 CLG Grant Certified Local Information File Notice of Eligibility for Grant 3/1/2017; Grant Application submitted; Formal Award
Application for Government FFY2017 CLG Grant Application Letter received with Grant Agreement;
FFY2017 Application for Grant submitted 4/28/2017 to SHPO Grant Timeframe to cover 7/6/17-6/30/18;
Funding Grant Withdrawn
HI-17-02 Referral of 305 South Governors Building Permit for Permit #17-949 referred to HDC by City Permit Application received 6/6/2017;
Building Permit Avenue Renovations to Planner for Architectural Review Permit to be issued subject to conditions of
#17-949 Apartment Building Certification consultation; Considered at Architectural Review Certification; No
6/15/2017 HDC Meeting Action
HI-17-03 Referral of Sign 115 West Sign Permit: Wall Permit #17-1484 referred to HDC by City Permit Application received 8/16/2017;
Permit #17-1484 Loockerman Street Sign Planner for Architectural Review Permit issued for installation of wall sign.
Certification consultation; Considered at Applicant seeks to allow back-lit sign.
9/21/2017 HDC Meeting; Appealed to Determination by City Planner of
Planning Commission and considered on prohibiting the back-lit sign remained in
10/16/2017 place after two failed motions by the HDC.
Applicant appealed the decision of the HDC
to the PC. PC took action to approve
Architectural Review Certification to allow
backlighting of the sign.
HI-17-04 Governors Café 144 Kings Highway One story addition to 12/21/2017 Public Hearing and Review Project proposal to add a one-story building
Kitchen Addition SW kitchen with the Historic District Commission. addition to rear wing of the existing building
Conditional Approval granted of to expand the kitchen area. Project received
Architectural Review Certification. Conditional Use approval from the Planning
Commission (Application C-18-01).
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City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2018
Updated thru June 2018
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-18-01 CLG Grant Certified Local Information File Notice of Eligibility for Grant Grant Application received; awaiting Formal
Application for Government 3/15/2018; FFY2018 CLG Grant Award Letter and Letter of Agreement;
FFY2018 Application for Grant Application submitted 5/11/2018 to Grant Timeframe to be 7/1/18-6/30/19
Funding SHPO
Paj 11
Summary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification
2018 - Updated Thru 6-30-2018
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
1/23/2018 18-15 14 Loockerman Plaza, The Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations for conversion
House of Coffi Renovations & Exterior required for interior work. of space to coffee shop. Exterior
Renovations work involves exterior finish repairs
and painting, construction of brick
paver patio entry with black metal
fence.
1/22/2018 18-135 29 Kent Avenue, Murphey Roof Permit Staff Approval. Replacement of roof.
School - Maintenance
Building
2/1/2018 18-42 2 Kings Highway NE Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval with No ArchRevCert Interior renovations for residential
Renovations required for interior work. elevation and kitchen remodeling.
Replacement of kitchen windows at
rear of house.
2/16/2018 18-167 111 West Loockerman Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations for new tenant -
Street, Barber Shop Renovations required for interior work. barber shop.
2/12/2018 18-202 313 South State Street, Law Sign Permit Staff Approval. Projecting sign on metal bracket.
Office of Sean Lynn (Annex)
2/16/2018 18-222 410 Legislative Avenue, Administrative Permit Staff Approval. Memorial/Public Art installation for
Legislative Mall Volunteer Firefighters Memorial on
southwest corner of Legislative
Mall.
2/28/2018 18-321 116 West Water Street, Sign Permit Staff Approval. Replacement wall sign for law
Parkowski, Guerke & office. Installed.
Swayze
2/27/2018 18-325 54 South State Street, Temporary Sign Permit Staff Approval. Installation of vinyl banner 3/19/18-
Presbyterian Church 4/2/18.
3/8/2018 18-147 206 West Loockerman Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Repair of drywall after sprinkler
Street, Bayard Apartments Renovations required for interior work. damage.
3/29/2018 18-345 9 West Loockerman Street, Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations for addition of
My Roots Renovations required for interior work. hair salon area/chair.
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Summary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification
2018 - Updated Thru 6-30-2018
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
3/5/2018 18-369 14 Loockerman Plaza, The Fence Permit Staff Approval. Installation of 3 ft. black metal
House of Coffi fence around outside patio of
restaurant. Installed.
4/4/2018 18-426 131 West Loockerman Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovation for tenant fit out
Street, Caviar Beauty Bar Renovations required for interior work. of personal service establishment.
4/9/2018 18-450 304 South State Street, Sign Permit Staff Approval. Installation of wall sign for office
Gwinn Homes (Office) tenant.
4/4/2018 18-471 25 West Loockerman Street Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval. Replacement of siding, windows, a
Renovations new metal roof on pent roof.
Removal of shutters and removal of
projecting box sign.
5/29/2018 18-663 410 South State Street, Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval. Repointing and select brick
Offices of Schmittinger & Renovations replacement project.
Rodriguez
5/25/2018 18-685 150 Martin Luther King Jr Roof Permit Staff. No ArchRevCert required. Replacement/Repair of flat roof
Boulevard South, Tatnall area that is not visible.
Building
5/3/2018 18-718 523 South State Street, Temporary Sign Permit Staff Approval. Vinyl Banner installed on decorative
Christ Church posts. Installation period 5/1/18-
8/1/18.
5/25/2018 18-843 54 South State Street, Roof Permit Staff Approval. Replacement of existing asphalt
Presbyterian Church shingle roof with new roof.
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HI-18-02 Referral of Demolition Permit #18-1104: Accessory Structure at 12
Kings Highway NE– Update on Review Status of Architectural Review Certification
for Demolition Permit application #18-1104 for project to demolish accessory
building. The property is zoned R-8 (One-Family Residence Zone) and is subject to
the H (Historic District Zone). The property is located on the south side of Kings
Highway NE/Division Street and west of intersection with Kent Avenue. The owner
of record is Elizabeth W. Murphey School Inc. Property Address:12 Kings Highway
NE. Tax Parcel: ED-05077.05-04-47.01-000.
Attachments:
• Demolition Permit #18-1104 Application Submission
• Letter of Referral of Permit to Historic District Commission dated July 5, 2018
• Submission of Additional Information/Documentation
• Letter of Review of Additional Information: Notice of City Planner to Issue
Architectural Review Certification and Permit dated July 10, 2018
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City of Dover
July 5, 2018
Mr. John Messick
Make It New Construction
Via Email: jmessick102@gmail.com
Elizabeth W. Murphy School Inc.
14 Kings Highway NE
Dover DE 19901
RE: Referral of Demolition Permit #18-1104 to Historic District Commission, HI-18-02
Demolition of Garage Building at 12 Kings Highway NE, Dover DE
Tax Parcel: ED-05-077.05-04-47.01-000.
Dear Applicants:
This letter is to inform you that Demolition Permit application #18-1104 has been referred
to the City of Dover Historic District Commission for consultation. Demolition Permit #18-
1104 was filed on June 25, 2018 for the demolition of an accessory structure (garage building) at
12 Kings Highway NE, Dover, Delaware.
The location of the subject property within the City of Dover’s Historic District zone requires the
review and issuance of an Architectural Review Certificate (ARC) for construction and
demolition activities. Minor demolitions are eligible for Staff review of the ARC during the
Demolition/Building Permit application process. Project activities are reviewed for compliance
with the Zoning Ordinance and the Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover
Historic District Zone as stated in Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 Section 3.25(A).
3.25 Architectural review standards.
(A) An architectural review certificate may be issued if it is found that the architectural
style, general design, height, bulk and setbacks, arrangement, location and materials
and structures affecting the exterior appearance are generally in harmony with
neighboring structures and complementary to the traditional architectural standards of
the historic district as set forth in the historic district design guidelines and standards
adopted by the planning commission and as set forth in the United States Secretary of
the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation.
In reviewing the proposed project for Architectural Review Certification, Staff referenced the
Chapter 4: New Construction, Additions, Demolition and Relocation of the Design Standards
and Guidelines which present the Recommended, Not Recommended, and Inappropriate
approaches to activities in the Historic District. For Demolition activities, the Design Standards
and Guidelines also gives guidance by listing specific criteria to be evaluated when considering
applications for the demolition of buildings (or portions of buildings) in the historic district.
Therefore, as related to the location and visibility of this demolition, I am referring the
Demolition Permit application to the Historic District Commission for consultation. See Zoning
Ordinance, Article 10 Section 3.22 (A) and (B) listed below.
P. O. Box 475 Dover, DE 19903
Community Excellence Through Quality Service
Paj 18
Letter Re: Permit #18-1104 Demolition of Garage Building at 12 Kings Highway NE, Dover
July 5, 2018
Page 2 of 2
Section 3.22 Architectural review certification by the city planner.
(A) An architectural review certificate for specific classes of building permits, including
fences, signs, siding, window and door replacement, roofing, the addition or replacement
of decorative features, minor demolition, residential additions, and other construction of
a minor nature, may be issued by the city planner, after a review and determination that
the proposed construction is in general accordance with the standards set forth in
subsection 3.25
(B) The city planner may refer any permit application for demolition or construction in the
historic district for consultation with commission.
The City of Dover Historic District Commission will review this permit at their next
meeting scheduled for Thursday, July 19, 2018 at 3:00pm in the City Hall Conference
Room, 15 Loockerman Plaza, Dover. This permit referral has been assigned Application #HI-
18-02. You are encouraged to attend this meeting to discuss the project. Staff will provide the
Historic District Commission with the permit application materials and other background
information for their review and action.
If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Planning Office at (302)736-7196.
Sincerely,
Dawn Melson-Williams, AICP
Principal Planner
CC: David S. Hugg, III, Planning Director
Demolition Permit #18-1104
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City of Dover
July 10, 2018
Mr. John Messick
Make It New Construction
Via Email: jmessick102@gmail.com
Michael Kopp, Executive Director
Elizabeth W. Murphy School Inc.
14 Kings Highway NE
Dover DE 19901
Via Email: mkopp@murpheyschool.org
RE: Notice on Review of Additional Information: City Planner to Issue Architectural Review
Certification and Permit
Follow-up to Referral of Demolition Permit #18-1104 to Historic District Commission,
HI-18-02
Demolition of Garage Building at 12 Kings Highway NE, Dover DE
Tax Parcel: ED-05-077.05-04-47.01-000.
Dear Applicants:
Previously on July 5, 2018, the City Planner (Staff) referred a Demolition Permit application
#18-1104 to the City of Dover Historic District Commission for consultation. Demolition Permit
#18-1104 was filed on June 25, 2018 for the demolition of an accessory structure (garage
building) at 12 Kings Highway NE, Dover, Delaware.
Upon notification of such referral, the property owner (Michael Kopp representing the Murphey
School) submitted additional information about the accessory structure. This additional
information included a series of photographs and a letter narrative on the history of the building
from documents in the property owner’s possession. Their research on the history of the building
shows no detailed records of the construction of this accessory structure (garage). The known
history includes the addition of a shed roof to the structure and the replacement of the doors with
metal doors in the 1980s; and the addition of a chimney (related to a small steam boiler) in the
1990s. The original use of the building could not be confirmed.
This residence is a contributing resource located within a National Register Historic District,
specifically the Victorian Dover Historic District. Provided below is the building summary from
the building inventory listing found within the National Register nomination completed for the
Victorian Dover Historic District (nomination completed 1977-78). The accessory building is not
mentioned in the description; however, appears to date from the mid-twentieth century as well.
K-396.437 12 Kings Highway East (Superintendent’s Residence, Elizabeth W. Murphey
School) – c. 1925, ½-story with 1-story wing, Neo-Georgian brick residence ; running
bond; gable roof with 2 dormers, box cornice with returns, later wing has flat roof and
denticulated cornice; 8/8 sash with flanking narrow 1/1 sash on 1st floor and shutters on
2nd floor, semi-circular wooden trim over 1st floor façade windows, stone keystone over
P. O. Box 475 Dover, DE 19903
Community Excellence Through Quality Service
Paj 23
Letter Re: Permit #18-1104 Demolition of Garage Building at 12 Kings Highway NE, Dover
July 10, 2018
Page 2 of 2
other windows, porthole window centered on 2nd floor façade; central entry flanked by
pilasters; partial façade porch, denticulated cornice and columns.
Additional research by Planning Staff shows an accessory structure located to the south of the
house in aerial photographs from 1937 in this general location.
The location of the subject property within the City of Dover’s Historic District zone requires the
review and issuance of an Architectural Review Certificate (ARC) for construction and
demolition activities. Upon evaluation of the information, Planning Staff will consider this a
Minor Demolition activity and will issue the Architectural Review Certification for the
Demolition Permit of the accessory structure. In reviewing the proposed Demolition activities,
Planning Staff reviewed the guidance in the Design Standards and Guidelines. In regards to the
Architectural Review Certification, the Planning Staff makes the following findings:
1) This building is an accessory structure within limited visibility from the public way due
to its position on the property. It is secondary to the dwelling building which remains in
use as offices and living quarters for the Murphey School facility campus.
2) The original permit submission and the additional information submitted provide
adequate information in the form of photographs and location plan to document the
accessory structure.
3) The modifications of the accessory structure with the shed roof addition, chimney, and
replacement doors have changed the character of the original structure reducing its
integrity.
4) Upon removal of the building, the building footprint area must be stabilized, and all
debris removed.
Due to the initial decision to refer the Permit to the Historic District Commission for
consultation, Planning Staff will provide an update on the Permit status and the Architectural
Review Certification authorized by the City Planner. The City of Dover Historic District
Commission’s next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July 19, 2018 at 3:00pm in the City Hall
Conference Room, 15 Loockerman Plaza, Dover. Staff will provide the Historic District
Commission with the permit application materials and the other background information.
If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Planning Office at (302)736-7196.
Sincerely,
Dawn Melson-Williams, AICP
Principal Planner
CC: David S. Hugg, III, Planning Director
Demolition Permit #18-1104
Paj 24
City of Dover, Delaware
2019 Comprehensive Plan
Project Update June 2018
Overview
The current Comprehensive Plan for the City of Dover is the 2008 Comprehensive Plan (as
amended) as adopted February 9, 2009 and certified. Delaware Code, Titles 22 and 29 prescribe
the requirements for comprehensive plans including the requirement for an update every ten
years.
Comprehensive plan means a document in text and maps, containing at a minimum, a
municipal development strategy setting forth the jurisdiction’s position on population and
housing growth within the jurisdiction, expansion of its boundaries, development of
adjacent areas, redevelopment potential, community character, and the general uses of
land within the community, and critical community development and infrastructure
issues. – 22 Del. Code §702(b)
For communities with a population over 2,000 persons, there are additional elements to be
included in the plan. See attached “State of Delaware Comprehensive Plan Checklist.”
The development of the 2019 Comprehensive Plan is a major goal of the Planning Office
(Department of Planning & Inspection) for 2018-2019. This project is being completed in-house
by City Staff. The approach to this project begins with the premise that the 2008 Comprehensive
Plan was a very good plan that was implemented over the years and that its policies and
recommendation are still relevant. Efforts with the new plan for 2019 will report on the status of
the 2008 plan; add components of the studies from the intervening years; assess any significant
data, demographic and economic changes; identify accomplishments; and reflect on any
impending factors.
Project Schedule
The Comprehensive Plan is due on or before February 9, 2019. If the planning process is behind
schedule, an extension may be requested of the Cabinet Committee on State Planning Issues by
letter due by December 12, 2018. In order to achieve Certification, the Comprehensive Plan must
complete the PLUS Review process and be adopted by the Planning Commission and City
Council.
The project schedule consists of five basic phases: Information Gathering, Plan & Map
Development, Consideration of Plan Recommendations, Formal Review & Adoption Process,
and Plan Implementation.
2019 Comprehensive Plan: Project Update June 2018 Page 1|3
Paj 25
The Project Team consists of Planning Staff who began meeting in February to initiate work on
the project. The project is in the Information Gathering Phase. See the following table
summarizing the Project Phases and Activities. The approximate timeframe is also given.
• Data Gathering
• Analysis of 2008 Plan
• Pre-Update Review at PLUS
February –
Information • Meetings with Agencies, Stakeholders,
September 2018
etc.
Gathering
• Engagement Events
• Chapter Writing
• Review & Preparation of Map set
July – September
Plan & Map • Development of Goals,
2018
Recommendations, & Actions
Development
• Engagement Events
• General Endorsement of DRAFT Plan by
Consideration of Plan September 2018
Planning Commission and City Council
Recommendations
• PLUS Review/ PLUS Letter
• Plan Revisions
• Planning Commission Hearing & Action October 2018 –
Formal Review & • City Council Hearing & Action February 2019
Adoption Process • Plan Certification
• Final Publication
February 2019 and
• Implementation Work on Action Items
Plan Implementation ongoing
Tasks to Date
As part of the Information Gathering Phase, the following tasks are noted:
• Biweekly and weekly meetings of the Project Team: Assignment of key topic area
chapters for research
2019 Comprehensive Plan: Project Update June 2018 Page 2|3
Paj 26
• Created package of 2008 Comprehensive Plan including all text and maps as amended
between 2009-2017.
• Submitted the 2008 Comprehensive Plan (as amended) document for Pre-Update Review
by PLUS.
• Participated in PLUS Meeting of March 28, 2018 and received PLUS Review comment
letter dated April 20, 2018.
• Outreach to Department of Public Works and Electric Department on project for data/info
gathering.
• Meeting with DelDOT Regional Systems Planning Office Staff on March 19, 2018
• Presentation on the Plan4Health: Guidance for Incorporating Health into the City OF
Dover’s Comprehensive Plan to the Planning Commission on April 2018.
• Submission of Certified Local Government grant application on May 11, 2018 to State
Historic Preservation Office for FFY2018 grant to focus on the development of “Update
of Historic Preservation Chapter for Dover’s 2019 Comprehensive Plan.” Awaiting status
of grant application.
• Discussion of Questionnaire survey questions on the topic of Housing with the Housing
Working Group of the Restoring Central Dover Plan at their meeting of May 16, 2018.
Engagement Activities
Events & Activities:
• Evaluation of Goals & Recommendations from 2008 Plan: Evaluation task assignment to
members of Planning Commission, Historic District Commission, and City Council. (City
Council will be receiving information on their participation in this task; see attached.)
• Evaluation of Status of 2008 Action Items and Plan Implementation
• Survey Questionnaire: A Questionnaire on various topic areas being developed; it will be
available on-line and paper copy formats.
• Event: “Dover Economic Development Forum: An Economist Vision of Dover” on June
13, 2018, 10:00am-1:00pm at Wilmington University. A panel presentation and
discussion on the future of Dover’s economy.
Information Sources:
• Ensure City’s website includes the 2008 Comprehensive Plan document (plan text and
map series)
• Create page on City’s website for the 2019 Comprehensive Plan Project
• Activate email for comments on Comprehensive Plan
• Guidance and assistance from the Office of State Planning Coordination
To Be Scheduled:
• Other outreach opportunities to public and stakeholders
• Meetings with City Departments focusing on specific topics of expertise
• Meetings with relevant State agencies as needed
• Meetings with adjacent jurisdictions to discuss Plan: Kent County, Camden, and
Wyoming
2019 Comprehensive Plan: Project Update June 2018 Page 3|3