Paj 1
COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
AGENDA
JUNE 28, 2016 - 6:00 P.M.
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
15 LOOCKERMAN PLAZA
DOVER, DELAWARE
PUBLIC COMMENTS ARE WELCOMED ON ANY ITEM AND WILL BE PERMITTED AT APPROPRIATE
TIMES. WHEN POSSIBLE, PLEASE NOTIFY THE CITY CLERK (736-7008 OR E-MAIL AT
CITYCLERK@DOVER.DE.US) SHOULD YOU WISH TO BE RECOGNIZED.
SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
(MEETING WILL CONVENE AT 6:00 P.M. AND WILL NOT EXCEED ONE (1) HOUR AND 15 MINUTES IN LENGTH)
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
1. PRESENTATIONS
A. SPEED CONTROL MEASURES - NORTH STATE STREET
B. PROPOSED SERVICE ROAD BEHIND THE MALL
2. REVIEW OF BICYCLE/PEDESTRIAN SUBCOMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS - SENATOR BIKEWAY
DESIGN CONCEPT
3. QUARTERLY UPDATE - BICYCLE/PEDESTRIAN SUBCOMMITTEE
(COMMITTEE ACTION NOT REQUIRED)
4. RE-EVALUATION OF THE NEED FOR THE BLUE LIGHT PHONES IN CITY PARKS
(STAFF RECOMMENDS, DUE TO THE SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN PERSONAL CELL PHONE OWNERSHIP AND
USE SINCE 2007, AS WELL AS THE HISTORICAL LOW USE OF THE PHONES, DISCONTINUING THE BLUE
LIGHT PHONE PROGRAM IN CITY PARKS)
5. UPDATES
A. HAMLET SHOPPING PLAZA
B. THE ELKS LODGE - 217 NORTH KIRKWOOD STREET
6. VIABILITY OF THE SHOTSPOTTER GUNSHOT DETECTION AND LOCATION SERVICE
(DURING THEIR MEETING OF MARCH 29, 2016, THE COMMITTEE REFERRED THIS ITEM TO STAFF FOR
REVIEW)
7. ADJOURNMENT OF SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MEETING
Paj 2
COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE AGENDA - JUNE 28, 2016 Page 2
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
(MEETING WILL CONVENE UPON ADJOURNMENT OF THE SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION
COMMITTEE MEETING AND WILL NOT EXCEED 45 MINUTES IN LENGTH)
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
1. FISCAL YEAR 2015-16 EDWARD BYRNE JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT PROGRAM - JOINT GRANT WITH
SMYRNA POLICE DEPARTMENT AND KENT COUNTY
(STAFF RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF THE GRANT PROJECT, AS REQUESTED)
2. DISCUSSION - FISCAL YEAR 2016 AUDIT PROGRAM
(COMMITTEE ACTION NOT REQUIRED)
3. ACTUARY SERVICES CONTRACT - PENSION AND OTHER POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS (OPEB)
(STAFF RECOMMENDS AWARDING A FIVE (5) YEAR CONTRACT, TO BEGIN IN FY17 AND END IN FY21,
TO NYHART FOR VALUATION SERVICES TOTALING $96,700 AND HOURLY RATES FOR BENEFITS
CONSULTING AS QUOTED IN THEIR RESPONSE TO THE CITY OF DOVER RFP #16-0041FN - PENSION
AND OTHER POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS ACTUARIAL SERVICES AND BENEFITS CONSULTING)
4. ADJOURNMENT OF LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MEETING
ADJOURNMENT OF COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING
/TM
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\COMMITTEE-AGENDAS\2016\06-28-2016 CCW.WPD
THE AGENDA ITEMS AS LISTED MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED IN SEQUENCE. PURSUANT TO 29 DEL. C. §10004(E)(2), THIS
AGENDA IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE TO INCLUDE THE ADDITION OR THE DELETION OF ITEMS, INCLUDING EXECUTIVE
SESSIONS, WHICH ARISE AT THE TIME OF THE MEETING.
Paj 3
NORTH STATE STREET
PROPOSED MEDIAN ISLAND CHICANE
EXISTING CONDITIONS PROPOSED – VIEW 1
DRAFT
NOTES: PROPOSED – VIEW 2
• THE ALTERNATIVE SHOWN IN THE RENDERINGS IS FOR CONCEPTUAL
PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED FOR CONSTRUCTION.
• THE DIAGRAM WAS NOT DRAWN TO SCALE. THE EXACT DIMENSIONS WILL
NOT BE DETERMINED UNTIL FINAL DESIGN.
DRAFT
Paj 4
PENN SYLV ANIA AVENUE
N
NT
S
NG
NO PARKI
NORTH STATESTREET
NG
NO PARKI
CO LUM BIA AVENUE
DRAFT
DATE
The alternatives shown on PREPARED BY: 3/1/2016
DRAWN BY: MJV OPTION 1: CHICANE
DELAWARE this map are for conceptual RUMMEL, KLEPPER & KAHL, LLP
NORTH STATE STREET
BETWEEN COLUMBIA AVENUE FIGURE 1
NOT TO SCALE
purposes only and are not COUNTY
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION intended for construction.
110 S. POPLAR STREET, SUITE 102
CHECKED BY:
TRAFFIC CALMING
AND PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE
WILMINGTON, DE 19801 KENT
Paj 5
JUNE 28, 2016 PRESENTATION
TO
CITY OF DOVER TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
COLLECTOR-DISTRIBUTOR ROAD MODIFICATION
TO
THE SCARBOROUGH ROAD INTERCHANGE
I. Background/History
-DelDOT’s 2007 U.S. Route 13 Corridor Study
-Continuing Growth & Development in the U.S. Route 13 Corridor is
Straining the Existing Roadway Infrastructure
-The Delaware General Assembly’s 2015 Bond Bill Directives
II. DelDOT’s 2016 Feasibility Study
-The CD Road Modification is Feasible
-The CD Road Modification Will Relieve Congestion, Improve Circulation, and
Enhance Traffic Safety
-The CD Road Modification Will Foster and Accommodate Continued Economic
Growth and Development
III. Next Steps/Costs/Schedule
-Toll Study to be Conducted
-Wetlands Delineation to be Performed
IV. The City of Dover’s Support is Vital
-Dover/Kent County MPO Prioritization
-Tell All of Your Friends!
Paj 6
SPONSOR: Sen. Sokola & Rep. Q. Johnson
Bushweller Potter
Hall-Long Mulrooney
Marshall Mitchell
Hocker Wilson
DELAWARE STATE SENATE
148th GENERAL ASSEMBLY
SENATE BILL NO. 160
A BOND AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS ACT OF THE ST ATE OF DELAWARE AND CERTAIN OF ITS
AUTHORITIES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2016; AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF
GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF THE STATE; APPROPRIATING FUNDS FROM THE TRANSPORTATION
TRUST FUND; AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS OF THE DELAWARE
TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY; APPROPRIATING SPECIAL FUNDS OF THE DELAWARE
TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY; APPROPRIATING SPECIAL FUNDS OF THE STATE; REVERTING AND
REPROGRAMMING CERTAIN FUNDS OF THE STATE; DIRECTING THE DEPOSIT OF CERTAIN FUNDS TO
THE GENERAL FUND; SPECIFYING CERTAIN PROCEDURES, CONDITIONS AND LIMITATIONS FOR THE
EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS; AND AMENDING CERTAIN STATUTORY PROVISIONS.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE (Three-fourths of all members
elected to each house thereof concurring therein):
Section 1. Fiscal Year~ 2016 Capital Improvements Project Schedule Addendum. The General
2 Assembly hereby authorizes the following projects in the following amounts for the purposes set forth in this Section and as
3 described in the Fiscal Year~ 2016 Governor's Recommended Capital Budget and Project Information document. Any
4 authorization balance (excluding Transportation Trust Fund balances) remaining unexpended or unencumbered by June 30,
5 W-1+ 2018, shall be subject to reversion or reauthorization.
Page 1 of75
CG :BBC: MSJ Jun 29, 2015
0211480040
Paj 7
1 Section 131. Five Points Fire Company. Notwithstanding the provisions of 29 Del. C.to the contrary, the
2 Delaware Department of Transportation is hereby authorized to use Community Transportation Funds for a one-time
3 reimbursement to the Five Points Fire Company in the amount of $25,000.00 for sign improvements.
4 Section 132. Collector-Distributor Road/Modification to Scarborough Road Interchange. The
5 Department of Transportation (the "Department") is hereby directed to take such actions and enter into such contracts
6 as it deems necessary and appropriate for the evaluation and assessment of a possible Collector-Distributor Road
7 modification to the Scarborough Road Interchange (the "C-D Road"), including but not limited to (1) a feasibility
8 study designed to evaluate and assess viability and implications of the C-D Road, (2) a toll study designed to ascertain
9 the volume of traffic likely to utilize the C-D Road and the prospects for generating toll revenues therefrom, and (3) a
10 wetlands delineation to determine whether or not any wetlands mitigation may be required in order to construct the C-
11 D Road; provided, however, that (a) the owner of the property occupied by The Dover Mall (the "Developer") shall
12 pay all of the costs to conduct the aforesaid study, not to exceed $250,000.00; (b) the Department shall conduct the
13 feasibility study in consultation with the Developer; and (c) upon completion of the aforesaid feasibility study, the
14 Department shall report back to the Joint Committee on the Capital Improvement (Bond Committee) Program
15 regarding the feasibility of the C-D Road, before the Department undertakes commencement of the aforesaid toll study
16 and wetlands delineation.
61
Paj 8
2007 US ROUTE 13 CIR.CULATION STUDY
I EXISTING TRAFFIC SIGNAL
PROPOSED ROADWAY
I
~ US ROUTE 13 CIRCULATION STUDY
FROM SCARBOROUUH ROAD
EXISTING PROPERTY LINE TO JEFFERIC BOULEVARD
XX XX X ROADWAY TO BE REMOVED
Paj 9
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM
To: Juanita Wieczoreck, Dover/Kent County Metropolitan Planning Organization
From: Adam Weiser, P.E., PTOE, RK&K
Raymond Harbeson, P.E., RK&K
Date: December 29, 2008
Subject: US 13 Circulation Study - Scarborough Road to Jefferic Boulevard
Background
In 1997, the Dover/Kent County Metropolitan Planning Organization (D/KC MPO) conducted a
workshop to generate ideas for improving the appearance and operation of the US 13 and US
113 corridors through the City of Dover. The ideas generated were reviewed, analyzed and
refined through an interactive public process culminating in a November 2000 future concept plan
for each of the six segments identified in the US 13 and US 113 corridors.
In the northern most segment of US 13, Leipsic Road to Denney's Road, development activity
caused the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) to conduct additional analyses in
2003. Some proposed roadway connections contained in the 2000 Concept Plan were viewed as
incompatible with site plans for some properties or ineffective for proposed developments. To
support this effort, Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, LLP (RK&K) was contracted by DelDOT to develop a
traffic model, using the SYNCHRO/SimTraffic analysis tool, to assist the Department and a local
working group in evaluating proposed new development and interconnecting roadways in the
north Dover US 13 Corridor. The results of that effort did not produce a consensus regarding the
future development of US 13 and the effort was abandoned when certain development proposals
were dropped or delayed.
In 2007, the Dover/Kent MPO initiated a new study to reevaluate land use and roadway
interconnections in this corridor with the intent of developing a consensus plan for the future
development of the north Dover US 13 corridor. RK&K was requested to assist in that effort by
updating the 2003 traffic model and then using it to evaluate alternatives developed by the
Dover/Kent MPO. In addition to modeling and simulating the traffic flow on US 13 for each of the
alternatives, the MPO requested that RK&K prepare graphics and visual aids and assist the
MPO staff in conducting meetings on the project to develop an acceptable concept plan for the
north Dover US 13 corridor. This Technical Memo documents the procedures followed and the
results of the coordination process.
Study Area
The study area for the US 13 North Dover Corridor Study is centered on US 13 and bounded by
the US 13/Jefferic Boulevard intersection to the south, the US 13/Scarborough Road intersection
to the north, SR 1 to the east and Silver Lake to the west. The study area is shown in Figure 1, at
the end of this memorandum.
Analysis of Potential Roadway Connections
The goal of this project is to determine how future development and general traffic growth will
affect the operation of the US 13 corridor in north Dover and to develop potential roadway
connector options that could be utilized to redistribute traffic in an effort to provide interconnection
between adjacent land uses, thereby providing additional alternatives to motorists aside from
traveling on US 13. In order to complete this analysis, data was collected regarding existing
Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, L L P - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Consulting Engineers - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Page 1 of 8
Paj 10
US 13 Circulation Study - Scarborough Road to Jefferic Boulevard
December 29, 2008
intersection turning movement volumes, intersection geometry and signal timings. This data was
compiled and input into a traffic model using the SYNCHRO/SimTraffic software package and
results of the modeling effort were used to determine the advantages and disadvantages of the
proposed roadway connections.
Data Collection Procedures
RK&K reviewed and updated the existing US 13 SYNCHRO Model to reflect 2007 conditions.
Intersection traffic counts, taken since the original model was developed, were collected from
DelDOT and the MPO. Recent traffic counts from the following intersections were found to be
available and were used in updating the model:
• US 13 @ Lepore Road (from the Berry Property Traffic Impact Study)
• US 13 @ State Street (from the Berry Property Traffic Impact Study)
• US 13 @ College Road (from the DSU Commercial Center Traffic Impact Study)
• US 13 @ Dover Downs (from the Berry Property Traffic Impact Study
Critical intersections that had not been counted since the 2003 Model was developed were
counted to provide updated information. Traffic counts were taken for 3 hours during the
afternoon weekday peak period and 4 hours during the midday Saturday peak period to match
the counts taken for the original model. New traffic counts were taken at the following locations:
• US 13@ Rustic Lane (June, 2007)
• US 13 @ Wal-Mart (June, 2007)
• US 13 @ Scarborough Road (June, 2007)
• Scarborough Road@ Crawford Carroll Boulevard (June, 2007)
Data from the DelDOT permanent traffic counter on US 13 near Dover Downs was collected and
used to adjust the base traffic volumes at all other intersections in the corridor. These
intersections included the following:
• US 13 @ Delaware State University
• US 13 @ South Entrance to Dover Mall
• US 13 @North Entrance to Dover Mall
• Us 13 @ Kentwood Drive/Cedar Chase Drive
All traffic volumes were adjusted using seasonal adjustment factors provided by DelDOT to reflect
seasonal variations in the traffic counts. Additional adjustments were also made to the model to
reflect changes since 2003 in roadway geometry, including intersection modifications. Current
signal timings used by the DelDOT TMC were also collected and adjustments to the base
SYNCHRO Model were made using this information.
Traffic Analysis for Alternatives
RK&K utilized the SYNCHRO traffic model developed for US Route 13 in 2003, with the
adjustments discussed previously to reflect current conditions, to evaluate traffic impacts of the
various land development and roadway connector alternatives developed by the Dover/Kent
MPO. The year 2017 was chosen to establish a 10 year planning horizon to evaluate full
development conditions. In consultation with DelDOT, RK&K utilized a 2% per year growth factor
for all traffic counts and added specific projected turning movement information for two specific
developments, The DSU Commercial Center and the Dover Crossroads Shopping Center. Traffic
growth projections were made from historical data to verify the choice of the 2% growth factor.
Traffic growth projection charts are provided at the end of this memorandum (Figures 2 - 4).
Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, L L P - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Consulting Engineers - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Page 2 of 8
Paj 11
US 13 Circulation Study- Scarborough Road to Jefferic Boulevard
December 29, 2008
Following calibration of the model with existing traffic, a 2017 "No Build" SYNCHRO Model was
developed as a baseline to measure various build options against. Recommended improvements
were then tested under three options:
Option 1 included a minimum number of new roadway connections, including the base network
plus the following new connections:
• Extension of Crawford Carroll Boulevard to the south through the Pet Smart/Circuit City
Parking lot to the north access road of Dover Mall.
• A new commercial connector road from Jefferic Boulevard through the Berry Property (Dover
Crossroads Shopping Center) to Leipsic Road opposite the existing commercial road behind
the Home Depot.
Option 2 included the base network, the new roadway connections included in Option 1, plus the
following new connections:
• An east side service road connecting the Dover Downs main entrance and Dover Mall to the
connecting road from SR 1 to US 13 at Scarborough Road.
• A connecting road from the Walmart signal at US 13 to the new east side service road.
Option 3 included the base network, the new roadway connections included in Options 1 and 2,
plus the following new roadway connections:
• Interconnection of the east side service road in Option 2 with the commercial connector road
through the Berry Property in Option 1.
• A further extension of Crawford Carroll Boulevard in Option 1 to the south around the west
side of Delaware State University connecting to College Road.
• Connection of the hotels on the north end of the corridor to Cedar Chase Drive through an
extension of Hilton Garden Way.
• A third travel lane on northbound and southbound US 13 between Scarborough Road and the
Wal-Mart intersection. North of the Scarborough Road intersection, the northbound travel
lane would be dropped as the right-turn lane at the Denny's Road intersection.
A separate SYNCHRO model was developed for each option and traffic volumes were manually
reassigned based on experience, observations and local knowledge. Working with DelDOT, a
subset of the Department's traffic demand model (the Peninsula Model) was run for the north
Dover US 13 corridor to derive the amount of regional traffic that might divert to the continuous
service roads identified in Option 3. Results of the tests for the three options were then
compared to the base line conditions for 2017 to develop some conclusions about the
effectiveness of the various new roadway connections proposed.
A map showing the full range of roadway connections tested is provided at the end of this
memorandum (Option 3).
Results of the SYNCHRO Model Tests
Results of the SYNCHRO model tests were compared to the base line conditions for the year
2017 for each intersection in the study area. Travel time between major intersections along US
13 was used as the measure of effectiveness to determine the impact of each roadway
connection option. Additionally, the Level of Service and delay was used as a secondary
measure of effectiveness at each signalized intersection within the study area.
The results of the traffic analysis showed that travel time on northbound US 13, between Jefferic
Boulevard and Scarborough Road, would increase from approximately 6 minutes to
approximately 13 minutes between existing (2007) and no-build (2017) conditions. In the
Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, L L P - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Consulting Engineers - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Page 3 of 8
Paj 12
US 13 Circulation Study - Scarborough Road to Jefferic Boulevard
December 29, 2008
southbound direction, within the same section, travel time would increase from approximately 6
minutes to almost 14 minutes between existing (2007) and no-build (2017) conditions. The
section of US 13 between Dover Downs and the north entrance to Dover Mall would see the most
dramatic increase in travel time, especially in the southbound direction. Providing the
connections proposed in Option 3 (including those for Options 1 and 2), the travel time would be
approximately 9 minutes in the northbound direction and 12 minutes in the southbound direction,
an improvement over no-build conditions. However, the section between Dover Downs and the
north entrance to Dover Mall would still experience travel times in excess of 5 minutes. A
comparison of travel times for the 2007 existing conditions, the full development 2017 "No Build"
conditions and the full development, full build (Option 3) conditions is provided in Tables 1A and
1B, at the end of this memorandum. A comparison the Levels of Service at each signalized
intersection for existing, no-build and the full build (Option 3) is provided as Table 2 at the end of
this memorandum.
Based on the results of the SYNCHRO Model tests, the conclusion of the MPO and the study
team was that the full set of proposed new roadway connections (Option 3), nor either subset
(Options 1 or Option 2) from previous studies, could reasonably mitigate the traffic impacts of the
anticipated traffic growth and planned development in the US 13 corridor. Additional adjustments
in the proposed roadway network would need to be made to maintain reasonable traffic
operations on US 13 in the future.
Public Coordination Process
The results of the traffic modeling effort and a map of the proposed roadway connections were
presented to business and development community leaders in the north Dover US 13 corridor,
the City of Dover, Kent County and DelDOT in a workshop on February 28, 2008. A history of the
traffic growth in a north/south direction through Dover was presented along with the specific
connectors studied. In summary, the group was shown that the connectors proposed from past
studies would not sufficiently support future traffic growth plus all planned development and the
travel time would be unacceptable when all development was complete. Business leaders also
pointed out that some of the connections proposed through their properties, even if they had
worked to mitigate traffic impact, would cause internal operational problems within their sites and
would not be acceptable as shown.
The MPO then agreed to meet with individual businesses and agencies to revise and add
roadway connections to areas more acceptable to the business community and to locations which
might provide greater traffic benefit to US 13. The goal of the process was to develop a
"Consensus Plan" agreeable to the business community and more efficient in providing traffic
benefits to US 13. Individual meetings with businesses and agencies were conducted from
March 2008 through June 2008.
The result of the meetings with the businesses and agencies was the development of a revised
set of interconnections. The new or realigned interconnections were placed in locations viewed
by the businesses as being compatible with their current and future site plans and site operations.
In addition the new and realigned interconnections were placed in locations where it was felt they
would help mitigate future impacts at the most congested points on US 13. Consideration was
also given to the mitigation of traffic impacts caused by the two annual NASCAR races held at
Dover Downs. A map of the "Consensus Plan", developed through this process, is provided at
the end of this memorandum.
"Consensus Plan" Analysis
Based on the results of the initial meeting with the business and development communities and
the subsequent individual meetings with business owners, a "Consensus Plan" was developed for
the US 13 corridor. The plan consists of the following elements:
Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, L L P - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Consulting Engineers - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Page 4 of 8
Paj 13
US 13 Circulation Study - Scarborough Road to Jefferic Boulevard
December 29, 2008
• On the west side of US 13:
• Extension of Crawford Carroll Boulevard to the south, through the west side of the
Delaware State University property to College Road. The western portion of College
Road would be realigned to form a three-legged intersection with the extended Crawford
Carroll Boulevard and the eastern portion of College Road.
• An east/west connector between extended Crawford Carroll Boulevard and US 13
through the Pet Smart / Circuit City parking lot. The proposed roadway would tie into US
13 approximately 160 feet north of the existing signalized intersection for the northern
Dover Mall access.
• Connection of the hotels on the north end of the corridor to Cedar Chase Drive through
an extension of Hilton Garden Way.
• On the east side of US 13:
• A north/south roadway (East Side Connector), parallel to US 13 and SR 1, located just
west of the SR 1 alignment. This road would extend south from Scarborough Road,
under existing Leipsic Road and then turn to the west and intersect US 13 opposite
Lepore Drive. The intersection of the East Side Connector with the Scarborough Road
connector would require modifications to the existing Denny's Road interchange with SR
1 and would require the construction of a signalized intersection on the connecting road
from the north Dover interchange with SR 1 to US 13. Two options for interchange
modifications were considered and will be discussed later in this memorandum.
• Where existing Leipsic Road crosses over SR 1, the roadway would be curved to the
east to tie into the proposed East Side Connector. Existing Leipsic Road from Dover
Downs to US 13 would become a service road for Dover Downs, Dover Crossroads
(Berry Property) and the Home Depot store. A connection between the Leipsic Road
service road and the East Side Connector would also be provided.
• Interconnection from Kentwood Drive into the Wilmington University property.
• An east/west connector roadway from the Best Buy entrance to the proposed East Side
Connector. Access to the Dover Mall would be provided on this roadway and access to
Dover Downs would be accommodated if desired in the future.
• Interconnection from the Best Buy entrance to Dover Litho.
• Relocation of the north entrance to Dover Mall, approximately 160 feet to the north, to
line up with the proposed connector road from the west side of US 13. The north Dover
Mall access would be modified to provide for all turning movements. A left-turn lane
would be provided on the access road to Dover Mall to allow left-turns into the
Volkswagen dealership.
• Interconnection from relocated Leipsic Road into the Dover Crossroads Shopping Center
(the Berry Property).
• Improved interconnection from the Dover Downs entrance behind Denny's, Boston
Market and Atlantic Books.
In addition to the roadway connections discussed above, a third lane is proposed for northbound
and southbound US 13 between Scarborough Road and the Wal-Mart entrance. A figure
displaying all of the proposed road connections is provided at the end of this Technical
Memorandum ("Consensus Plan").
The proposed roadway connections discussed above were input into the traffic model and traffic
was manually reassigned based on experience, observations and local knowledge of the roadway
system. The results of the modeling effort were compared to values for existing (2007) conditions
and no-build (2017) conditions. The results indicate that travel time will increase by 32% in the
northbound direction (6 minutes versus 8 minutes) and 48% in the southbound direction (6
minutes versus 9 minutes) over existing conditions with the construction of the proposed
connector roads for the "Consensus Plan". Comparing no-build to the "Consensus" option, travel
Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, L L P - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Consulting Engineers - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Page 5 of 8
Paj 14
US 13 Circulation Study- Scarborough Road to Jefferic Boulevard
December 29, 2008
times will decrease on the order of 41% (13 minutes versus 8 minutes) in the northbound
direction and 34% (14 minutes versus 9 minutes) in the southbound direction, indicating that the
proposed connector roads will provide some future relief on US 13. In addition, Levels of Service
and delay should be improved at the majority of the signalized intersections on US 13. This can
be attributed to the provision of interconnection between adjacent land uses, the reduction in the
number of U-turns and left-turns at signalized intersections and improved regional connectivity.
Denny's Road Interchange Modifications
The proposed East Side Connector road will create an intersection on the Scarborough Road
connector between US 13 and the Denny's Road interchange with SR 1. Provision of an
intersection on the Scarborough Road connector has been opposed by DelDOT throughout the
entire process of this study. Concerns over unexpected stopping conditions, additional weaving
and high speeds have prompted DelDOT's concerns. RK&K evaluated two options for
connecting the East Side Connector to the Scarborough Road connector. The options are as
follows:
• Interchange Option 1 creates a four-legged signalized intersection just east of the existing toll
plaza on the Scarborough Road connector. The East Side Connector would create the
southern leg of the intersection. The southbound off-ramp from SR 1 would be modified to
allow for a split in traffic so that motorists wanting to get to the East Side Connector would be
able to stop at the traffic signal and motorists wanting to continue on the Scarborough Road
connector to get to US 13 would be able to continue freely as they do today. This option
would also require a new southbound on-ramp that would be part of the northern leg of the
intersection and then loop to the east and tie into SR 1.
• Interchange Option 2 creates a three-legged intersection with limited movements on the
Scarborough Road connector, located approximately half way between the interchange and
US 13. The East Side Connector would create the southern leg of the intersection. The only
movements that would be allowed at this intersection are the right-turn movement from the
East Side Connector onto the Scarborough Road connector and the left-turn movement from
the Scarborough Road connector onto the East Side Connector. Additionally, the
southbound off-ramp from SR 1 is proposed to be modified to allow traffic to split just beyond
the gore area. Traffic wanting to go to the Dover Mall, Dover Downs or other points south
within Dover could utilize a new flyover ramp that connects directly to the East Side
Connector. Provision of the flyover ramp would greatly reduce weaving in the westbound
direction at the new signalized intersection.
Conceptual layouts of both interchange/intersection options are provided as attachments at the
end of this memorandum.
Due to DelDOT's concerns for the two options presented, RK&K completed additional traffic
analyses to determine the length of queues at the proposed signals and to determine the Level of
Service and delay that would be expected at the proposed signal locations. In order to complete
this analysis, traffic counts were collected on each of the ramps at the Denny's Road interchange
for a period of one week between November 18, 2008 and November 26, 2008. The counts were
tabulated and the directional split of traffic was utilized to develop turning movements at the
proposed signalized intersection for each interchange option. The results of the analysis indicate
the following:
• For Interchange Option 1, the signalized intersection is proposed to operate at LOS B with
approximately 16 seconds of overall delay. The worst movement at the intersection would be
the left-turn movement from the northbound off-ramp onto the East Side Connector. This
movement could operate at LOS D with delay of approximately 42 seconds per vehicle. The
951h-percentile queue length for this movement is expected to be approximately 105 feet long.
Additionally, the eastbound left-turn movement (traffic turning left to utilize the southbound
Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, L L P - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Consulting Engineers - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Page 6 of 8
Paj 15
US 13 Circulation Study - Scarborough Road to Jefferic Boulevard
December 29, 2008
on-ramp) could operate at LOS D with delay of approximately 42 seconds per vehicle. The
95th_percentile queue length of this movement is expected to be approximately 250 feet long.
• For Interchange Option 2, the limited movement signalized intersection is proposed to
operate at LOS A with approximately 6 seconds of overall delay. As in Option 1, the worst
movement at this intersection would be the left-turn movement onto the East Side Connector.
This movement could operate at LOS F with delay of approximately 80 seconds per vehicle.
The 95th-percentile queue length for this movement is expected to be approximately 140 feet
long. Additionally, the eastbound movements between US 13 and the proposed signal could
experience some weaving issues due to the volume of traffic turning onto the Scarborough
Road connector from southbound US 13.
Based on the results of the analysis for the two interchange/intersection options associated with
the East Side Connector, it is recommended that Option 1 move forward as the preferred option.
Even though some movements in Option 2 operate with slightly less delay and better Levels of
Service than Option 1, both options operate at an acceptable overall Level of Service. The
significant additional cost to provide the overpass for Option 2 simply cannot be justified.
Additionally, Option 1 provides a greater safety benefit over Option 2 because less weaving is
required in Option 1. The distance between the proposed signal in Option 2 and the existing
signal at the intersection of US 13 and Scarborough Road would not provide an adequate
weaving distance, especially in the eastbound direction, which could create a significant safety
problem for motorists turning from northbound US 13, trying to get to northbound SR 1. Option 1
would be more economical and would provide for safer movements at the proposed signal.
Conclusions and Recommendations
Traffic volumes on the US 13 corridor between Scarborough Road and Jefferic Boulevard will
continue to grow as development along the corridor continues. Since this corridor is at the center
of the planned growth area in Dover and central Kent County, the growth is desired by all State
and local planning agencies. In order to accommodate additional traffic growth and not have to
widen US 13, additional roadway connections between adjacent land uses, parallel to US 13 to
the east and the west, need to be provided. The analyses conducted as part of this study show
that travel times on US 13 will increase dramatically if no improvements are implemented.
Implementing the roadway connections from the "Consensus Plan" should control the increase in
travel time in the US 13 corridor, making it more manageable by giving motorists alternative route
choices for getting from one property to another, from one side of US 13 to the other or from one
end of the corridor to the other.
The following elements of the "Consensus Plan" should be moved forward for further
consideration by the Dover/Kent MPO, the City of Dover and the Delaware Department of
Transportation and should be included in the MPO's Long Range Plan, the City of Dover's
Comprehensive Plan and DelDOT's planning for the US 13 corridor:
• On the west side of US 13:
• Extension of Crawford Carroll Boulevard to the south, through the west side of the
Delaware State University property to College Road. The western portion of College
Road would be realigned to form a three-legged intersection with the extended Crawford
Carroll Boulevard and the eastern portion of College Road.
• An east/west connector between extended Crawford Carroll Boulevard and US 13
through the Pet Smart / Circuit City parking lot. The proposed roadway would tie into US
13 approximately 160 feet north of the existing signalized intersection for the northern
Dover Mall access.
• Connection of the hotels on the north end of the corridor to Cedar Chase Drive through
an extension of Hilton Garden Way.
Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, L L P - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Consulting Engineers - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Page 7 of 8
Paj 16
US 13 Circulation Study - Scarborough Road to Jefferic Boulevard
December 29, 2008
• On the east side of US 13:
• A north/south roadway (East Side Connector), parallel to US 13 and SR 1, located just
west of the SR 1 alignment. This road would extend south from Scarborough Road,
under existing Leipsic Road and then turn to the west and intersect US 13 opposite
Lepore Drive. The intersection of the East Side Connector with the Scarborough Road
connector would require modifications to the existing Denny's Road interchange with SR
1 and would require the construction of a signalized intersection on the connecting road
from the north Dover interchange with SR 1 to US 13. Two options for interchange
modifications were considered and will be discussed later in this memorandum.
• Where existing Leipsic Road crosses over SR 1, the roadway would be curved to the
east to tie into the proposed East Side Connector. Existing Leipsic Road from Dover
Downs to US 13 would become a service road for Dover Downs, Dover Crossroads
(Berry Property) and the Home Depot store. A connection between the Leipsic Road
service road and the East Side Connector would also be provided.
• Interconnection from Kentwood Drive into the Wilmington University property.
• An east/west connector roadway from the Best Buy entrance to the proposed East Side
Connector. Access to the Dover Mall would be provided on this roadway and access to
Dover Downs would be accommodated if desired in the future.
• Interconnection from the Best Buy entrance to Dover Litho.
• Relocation of the north entrance to Dover Mall, approximately 160 feet to the north, to
line up with the proposed connector road from the west side of US 13. The north Dover
Mall access would be modified to provide for all turning movements. A left-turn lane
would be provided on the access road to Dover Mall to allow left-turns into the
Volkswagen dealership.
• Interconnection from relocated Leipsic Road into the Dover Crossroads Shopping Center
(the Berry Property).
• Improved interconnection from the Dover Downs entrance behind Denny's, Boston
Market and Atlantic Books.
• In addition, a third travel lane should be provided on northbound and southbound US 13
between Scarborough Road and the Wal-Mart entrance.
• Interchange option 1 should be carried forward as the preferred interchange/intersection
alternative associated with the East Side Connector.
As development plans come into DelDOT for review and approval, requirements should be
placed on the developers to incorporate pieces of the "Consensus Plan". Those pieces that
cannot be funded and constructed by developers should become part of the Department of
Transportation's Capital Transportation Program and should be prioritized in an effort to have the
pieces in place to accommodate future growth within the study area.
Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, L L P - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Consulting Engineers - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Page 8 of 8
Paj 17
6/21/2016 North Dover Study I Dover Kent MPO I Kent County Delaware
(http://doverkentmpo.delaware.gov)
Dover/Kent County MPO
KENT COUNTY DELAWARE
(http://doverkentmpo.delaware.gov)
North Dover Study
The purpose of this project is to address land use and infrastructure considerations in a
changing future by evaluating various alternative development scenarios and transportation
plans. The project includes the identification of future transportation connections and services
that can be implemented as existing institutions, businesses and residential communities
expand or change and the area develops and redevelops. The plan area is bounded by Lepore
Road/Jeffrie Blvd. to the south, Scarborough Rd. to the North, SR 1 to the east and became the
St. Jones River and Silver Lake to the west. The goal of the re-development plan is to provide a
picture of how the area can change yet remain economically vital and residentially desirable; it
is intended to help state, county and city officials and planners make the best possible
decisions.
The final product of this project was a technical memorandum describing the evaluated
scenarios, the evaluation process and a presentation of the recommended transportation
systems. The project was completed as a joint effort of the Dover/Kent County MPO (MPO
staff), the City of Dover, Kent County, and the Delaware Department of Transportation. The
Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce provided assistance with disseminating information
and facilitating communications with businesses, if needed. The firm of RK&K Engineers LLP
served as a technical analysis consultant.
http://doverkentmpo.delaware.gov/north-dover-study/ 1/3
Paj 18
Members
Bicycle & Pedestrian Subcommittee James A. Hutchison, III,
Chair
Quarterly Update June 2016 Chris Asay
Kathy Doyle (kindly resigned
June 2016)
Pat Gallagher (kindly resigned
May 2016)
What have we been up to in 2016? Jayce Lesniewski
Dave Moses
Working together with Using the feedback Community and the Andy Siegel
local community part- received from the Bike Friendly Commu-
ners such as the Kent American League of nity Applications were Created in 2012 by the
County MPO, Dela- Bicyclists, we have both reviewed by the Safety Advisory & Trans-
ware Department of made strides in part- committee. At this portation Committee.
Transportation’s Bicy- nerships with Wesley time, the committee They have been tasked
cle and Pedestrian College and the believes more work with identifying gaps in
Coordinators, we have Capital School District. needs to be done the bicycle and pedestrian
put together an Members represent- before submitting for network in Dover and
identifying areas where
agenda full of items ing these entities have these prestigious
the city can work together
that are geared to find begun attending designations. Work
with local partners to im-
meetings to share on will continue so that prove the atmosphere for
how we can work to when we apply in the bicyclists & pedestrians.
Ride of Silence
improve routes for future, our application
students on their can’t be denied.
campuses.
Safety curriculum was
We’ve provided feed- prepared for the Events
back on the Senator Capital School District.
Bike Way and heard a We feel educating Dover Duathlon 71
concept of a Rt 13 children at a younger A new run/bike/run sprint
and resolve gaps in Multiuse pathway. age will be the start of event held at Dover Park.
the bicycle/pedestrian a good foundation. 71 registra ons for our
The Walk Friendly 1st me out.
routes around Dover.
Bike to Work Day 15
Our 4th year, and the
Fit for the First State Bike Rack Contest weather could have been
a li le be er. Only 15
Seeing a need for ad- affordable bike design ing fabrication costs chose to Bike to Work.
ditional bike racks in that would be durable. and hope to move
key City of Dover lo- After the subcommit- Ride of Silence 32
forward with installing
cations, the group tee entry review (all of one (or more) of these In our 2nd year, we grew!
embarked on a Fit for which were quite
More than 30 rode, bring‐
soon! ing awareness to cyclists
the First State Bike good), the Capital who have perished.
Rack Contest. School District’s CAD
With the contest de- 3 Class won the award Fun Ride 5
tails all set, they of- with their rendition of Partnering with DelDOT,
fered this opportunity “Dover” with the Sen- ride with us on the 4th
Thursday each month this
to school aged chil- ator logo within the summer. Only 5 rode
dren for submitting an design. We are seek- with us the first me out.
Paj 19
ACTION FORM
PROCEEDING: Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee
DEPARTMENT OF ORIGIN: City Manager’s Office DATE SUBMITTED: June 22, 2016
PREPARED BY: Scott D. Koenig, P.E., City Manager
SUBJECT: Re-Evaluation of the Need for Blue Light Phones in City Parks
REFERENCE: N/A
RELATED PROJECT: N/A
APPROVALS: Scott D. Koenig, P.E., City Manager
EXHIBITS: Summary Information – Calls for Service (Dover Police Department)
EXPENDITURE REQUIRED: N/A
AMOUNT BUDGETED: N/A
FUNDING SOURCE (Dept./Page in CIP & Budget): N/A
TIMETABLE: Removal of the system will occur within ninety (90) days if Council authorizes discontinuing
the program.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Due to the significant increase in personal cell phone ownership and use since
2007 as well as the historical low use of the phones, staff recommends discontinuing the Blue Light Phone
program in City parks.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Over Memorial Day Weekend, the City experienced problems with one of the Blue Light Phones in Silver Lake
Park. The phone was repeatedly dialing 911 and could not be reset. The Electric Department used on-call staff
to cut the power to the phone to prevent it from dialing 911. These phones were installed in 2006 and 2007 and
have not be serviced since installation according to the manufacturer. Staff expects the system will need repairs
and/or replacement in the coming years due to the age of the technology that was installed years ago. There are
a total of five (5) phones. The Police Department has provided the summary of calls for service as indicated in
the exhibit. Since 2007, there have been a total of five (5) legitimate calls for service. All of the calls are from
Silver Lake Park. Three (3) are from the beach area and two (2) are from the boat ramp area. The total costs
for these phones ranges between $950.00 - $1,050.00 per year depending upon the amount of minutes used.
Due to the significant increase in personal cell phone ownership and use since 2007 as well as the historical low
use of the phones, staff recommends discontinuing the Blue Light Phone program in City parks.
Paj 20
Total Calls for Service
302-387-3422 302-531-6613 302-531-7110 302-632-5825 302-632-2247
Whiteoak Park Whiteoak Park Silver lake -
Shutte Park - - playground - Soccer Field boat ramp Silver Lake -
Pitts Center area area area beach area
2016 0 0 0 0 5
2015 0 0 0 0 18
2014 0 0 0 0 18
2013 0 0 0 0 10
2012 0 0 0 0 13
2011 0 0 0 0 0
2010 0 0 0 2 3
2009 0 0 0 4 1
2008 0 0 0 1 0
2007 0 0 0 1 0
Total Calls for Service - hang up/malfunction
302-387-3422 302-531-6613 302-531-7110 302-632-5825 302-632-2247
Whiteoak Park Whiteoak Park Silver lake - Silver Lake - Beach Area only one call logged
Shutte Park - - playground - Soccer Field boat ramp Silver Lake - for a hang up/malfunction - even if there is
Pitts Center area area area beach area 50 calls
2016 0 0 0 0 5
2015 0 0 0 0 18
2014 0 0 0 0 17
2013 0 0 0 0 9
2012 0 0 0 0 13
2011 0 0 0 0 0
2010 0 0 0 1 2
2009 0 0 0 4 1
2008 0 0 0 1 0
2007 0 0 0 0 0
Paj 21
Total Calls for Service - legitimate calls
302-387-3422 302-531-6613 302-531-7110 302-632-5825 302-632-2247
Whiteoak Park Whiteoak Park Silver lake -
Shutte Park - - playground - Soccer Field boat ramp Silver Lake -
Pitts Center area area area beach area
2016 0 0 0 0 0
2015 0 0 0 0 0 Silver Lake - beach area:
2014 0 0 0 0 1 2014 - subject on ground (poss medical)
2013 0 0 0 0 1 2013 - beathing difficulties (medical)
2012 0 0 0 0 0 2010 -3 subjects walking w/mace
2011 0 0 0 0 0
2010 0 0 0 1 1
2009 0 0 0 0 0 Silver Lake - boat area:
2008 0 0 0 0 0 2010 - lost 4 year old child
2007 0 0 0 1 0 2007 - subj pulled a knife on another subj
Paj 22
BLUE LIGHT PHONES - HISTORICAL COSTS
Schutte Park White Oak Park White Oak Park Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park
PARK AREA
JW Pitts Center Playground Soccer Field Beach Boat Ramp
Date Installed 5/29/08 2/16/08 2/16/08 7/19/06 7/19/06
Phone Number 302-387-3422 302-531-6613 302-531-7110 302-632-2247 302-632-5825 Cost Mins
FY16 YTD TOTALS (Jul 15 - Apr 16) Average Number of Lines 5.00 795.19 25
FY15 TOTALS Average Number of Lines 5.00 953.54 63
FY14 TOTALS Average Number of Lines 5.00 952.79 53
FY13 TOTALS Average Number of Lines 5.00 946.15 35
FY12 TOTALS Average Number of Lines 5.00 1,124.20 17
FY11 TOTALS Average Number of Lines 5.00 1,009.38 13
FY10 TOTALS Average Number of Lines 5.00 1,032.17 48
FY09 TOTALS Average Number of Lines 5.00 1,058.64 87
FY08 TOTALS Average Number of Lines 2.75 842.66 84
FY07 TOTALS Average Number of Lines 1.83 454.41 73
Paj 23
New Castle County, Delaware, Code of Ordinances, Chapter 22 - Offenses and Miscellaneous
Provisions, Article 2. - Offenses Generally, Sec. 22.02.006. - Disorderly Premises
Sec. 22.02.006. - Disorderly premises.
A. It shall be unlawful for any owner, owner's agent, manager, caretaker or person occupying a
premises to allow, suffer or permit in any residence or upon any premises occupied by himself or
herself any conduct which causes public inconvenience, annoyance, alarm to a reasonable person,
or disrupts the quiet and good order of adjoining and surrounding properties including, but not limited
to, engaging in fighting or in violent, tumultuous, or threatening behavior, making unreasonable noise
or an offensively coarse utterance, gesture or display or addressing abusive language to any person
present, obstructing vehicular traffic or pedestrian traffic, or creating a hazardous or physically
offensive condition which serves no legitimate purpose. Any person who fails to obey the order of a
Police Officer to dispel and disperse or otherwise discontinue the disturbing activity may be cited for
an additional violation of this Section.
B. In the event that the owner, owner's agent, manager or caretaker of a house, dwelling, or premises
where the violation of Subsection A hereof has occurred does not occupy or reside at the property,
such individual shall be presumed to allow, suffer or permit such conduct after receiving notice that
such conduct has occurred and shall be in violation of this Section if a further violation of Subsection
A occurs within one hundred eighty (180) days of receiving said notice.
C. It shall be deemed that notice is properly served upon an owner, owner's agent, manager or
caretaker if a copy of such notice is delivered to the owner, owner's agent, manager or caretaker
personally or to the registered office of the owner, owner's agent, manager or caretaker or by leaving
such notice at the usual place of abode, in the presence of a family member of suitable age and
discretion who shall be informed of the contents of such notice or by certified mail addressed to the
owner, owner's agent, manager or caretaker at the last known address of such owner, owner's
agent, manager or caretaker or the mailing address of the owner of the subject premises as recorded
on the County Assessment Records or the Residential Rental Property Registration System. After
service of notice such owner, owner's agent, or manager or caretaker shall make a good faith effort
to develop a plan of action with the County Law Department and the New Castle County Police
Department to prevent further violation of Subsection A.
D. Any person convicted of a violation of this Section shall be fined no more than one thousand dollars
($1,000.00) for any offense but no less than one hundred dollars ($100.00) for the first offense, no
less than three hundred dollars ($300.00) for the second offense, and no less than five hundred
dollars ($500.00) for each subsequent like offense. In any prosecution for an offense under this
Section, it shall be an affirmative defense, which must be proved by the preponderance of the
evidence, that the occupant has been evicted and is no longer on the premises, or if there is pending
at the time of trial an eviction action against the occupant of the premises which action is being
pursued in good faith. Otherwise the fines imposed under this Subsection shall not be suspended.
E. This Section shall be enforced by the Police Department.
(Ord. No. 98-050, § 1(22-31), 5-26-1998; Ord. No. 07-101, § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. No. 10-113, §
1(Exh. A), 1-18-2011; Ord. No. 13-021, § 1, 4-9-2013)
Page 1
Paj 24
Title 10 - Courts and Judicial Procedu res
Part IV
Special Proceed ings
Chapter 71
CRIMIN AL NUISAN CE ABATEM ENT
§ 7101 Short title.
This chapter shall be known as and may be cited as the "Criminal Nuisance Abatement Act".
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § I; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 2.)
§ 7102 Purpose; construct ion.
(a) This chapter shall be liberally construed and applied so as to promote its underlying purposes, which
are:
(I) To authorize temporary and permanent abatement relief and other remedies to abate any criminal
nuisance as defined herein;
(2) To eliminate locations that otherwise attract criminals, violence and the threat of violence associated
with either illegal drug
trade or any of the other nuisances defined herein;
(3) To abate drug nuisances and illegal drug activity as well as the other nuisances defined herein
that otherwise reduce property
values, injure legitimate businesses and commerce and erode the quality of life for law-abiding persons
working or residing in or near
these locations;
(4) To ensure that the civil actions and remedies authorized by this chapter be heard by the courts on
a priority basis to expeditiously
identify and abate all nuisances, particularly those involving illegal drng trade or activity; and
(5) To encourage owners, landlords, operators and managers of buildings, places or premises (hereinafter
referred to as "premise")
to take the affirmative steps necessary to prevent violations on their properties involving any of the above
nuisances, particularly those
involving illegal drug trade or activity.
(b) Any action brought pursuant to this chapter, regardless of the remedy or remedies sought or
ordered, is intended to be by the
General Assembly and shall be deemed to be an action for abatement of a criminal nuisance.
(c) Any action brought on the basis of a criminal nuisance defined at§ 7103(5)b. of this title is intended
to abate the criminal nuisance
existing on those properties where illegal fireanns exist and those who use illegal firearms congregate.
It is not intended to interfere with
the right to lawful possession or use offireanns by law abiding citizens.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § l; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, §§ 3-7.)
§ 7103 Definition s.
As used in this chapter, unless the context indicates differently:
(1) "Adverse impact" means the presence of I or more of the following conditions:
a. Diminished real property value related to nuisances associated with drug activity, illegal fiream1s,
criminal gangs, violent
felonies, prostitution, and other public nuisances in or near the property;
b. Increased fear of residents to walk through or in public areas, including sidewalks, streets, and
parks, due to the presence of
nuisances associated with drug activity, illegal firearms, criminal gangs, violent felonies, prostitution
, and other public nuisances;
c. Increased volume of vehicular and pedestrian traffic to and from the property that is related to nuisances
associated with drug
activity, illegal fireanns, criminal gangs, violent felonies, prostitution, and other public nuisances;
cl. An increase in the number of police calls to the property that are related to nuisances associated
with drug activity, illegal
firearms, criminal gangs, violent felonies, prostitution, and other public nuisances;
e. Bothersome solicitations or approaches by persons wishing to engage in prostitution or to sell controlled
substances or drug
paraphernalia on or near the property;
f. The presence, use, or display or discharge of illegal fiream1s at or near the property;
g. Investigative purchases of controlled substances or drug paraphernal ia, or investigative actions
relating to prostitution by
undercover [aw-enforcement officers al or near the property;
h. An-ests of persons on or near the property for criminal conduct relating to nuisances associated
with drug activity, illegal
firearms, criminal gangs, violent felonies, prostitution, and other public nuisances;
i. Search warrants served or executed at the property relating to nuisances associated with drug activity,
illegal fiream1s, criminal
gangs, violent felonies, prostitution, and other public nuisances;
j. A substantial number of complaints made to law-enforce ment and other governmen t officials regarding
nuisances associated
with drug activity, illegal firearms, criminal gangs, violent felonies, prostitution, and other public nuisances;
k. Increased number of housing or health code violations relating to nuisances associated with drug
activity, illegal firearms,
criminal gangs, violent felonies, prostitution , and other public nuisances;
Page 193
Paj 25
Title I 0 - Courts and Judicial Procedu res
health, safety, a nd welfare of
l. Any other impact the Court deems tu be rci eva nt and consiste nt with sa feguarding the public
the community.
with intent to sell or distribute" shall
(2) "Controlled substance," "manufactu re," "distribution ," "sale," "trafficking ," and "possession
have the same meaning as those terms are used in C ha pte r 4 7 of Title l 6.
(3) "Court" means the Superior Court of the St ate of Del aware.
Title I 1. "Pattern of criminal gang
(4) "Criminal gangs" means any criminal stree t gangs or youth gangs as defined in § § 616-617 of
activity" shall have the same meaning as defined in § 6 I 6(a)(2) of Title I I .
(5) "Criminal nuisance" means any real property at which :
civil action under this chapter; or
a. An illegal dmg event has occurred within the period of J year prior to the commencem ent of the
, possession, possession for sale, sale, furnishing, storing
b. The illegal use, manufactur e, causing to be manufactured, importation
or acts which constitute any felony set forth in subpart E of subchapter
or delivery of ammunition or firearms has occurred, or any act
Vil of Chapter 5 of Title l l or an unlawful attempt or conspiracy to commit such an act; or
of Title 11; or
c. Prostitution is promoted, facilitated or permitted in violation of§§ 1342-1344 and 1351-1356
d. Criminal gangs are engaging in a pattern of criminal gang activity; or
within the period of 1 year prior
e. An act that would consti111te a violent felony, as defined by§ 4201 (c) of Title 11, has occurred
to the commencem ent of the civil action under this chapter; or
or persons, and which a
f. A material annoyance, inconvenien ce, discomfort, or a tangible injury occurs to neighboring properties
other public nuisance defined by state or municipal codes or Delaware
court considers objectionab le under the circumstanc es, or any
law.
on" shall have the same meaning
(6) "Firearm" shall have the same meaning as that tem1 is used in § 222 of Title 11. "Ammuniti
as that term is used in § J448( c) of Title 11.
with intent to distribute, sell
(7) "Illegal drug events" means the unlawful manufacture , distribution , trafficking, sale or possession
set forth in Chapter 47 of Title 16, or an unlawful
or deliver a controlled substance, or any act or acts which constitute any felony
attempt or conspiracy to commit such an act.
(8) "Landlord" shall have the sa_me meaning as that term is defined in§ 5141 of Title 25.
the owner ofrecord. "Owner" shall
(9) "Owner" means any person in whom is vested the ownership and title of property, and who is
include any local, city, county, state or federal government al entity.
or private corporation , a trust,
(I 0) "Person" means a human being who has been born and is alive, and, where appropriate , a public
a union, an unincorpora ted association, a partnership , a governmen t or a governmen tal instrumenta lity.
a firm, a joint stock company,
or portion thereof, whether used as
(11) "Place," "site" or "premises" includes any building, structure, erection, or any separate part
a residence, for commercial purposes or a house of worship, or the ground itself.
ws ,~. 248,--§§ l ,-2;- 72 Del.
(3.0 Del. Laws, c. 234, § !; Code 1935, § 52.7-2.;-lO-Del. C - 1953, §-71-01 ;--53 Del. laws; c . -360 ; .69-DeL-La
Laws, c. 158, §§ 1-7; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 8.)
Laws, c. 31, §§I, 2; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484, §I; 76 Del.
§ 7104 Maintain ing a criminal nuisance.
establishes, promotes, permits,
Any person, including but not limited to any owner, agent, employee or lessee, who uses occupies,
for maintaining a criminal nuisance and shall be
facilitates, or conducts a criminal nuisance, or aids or abets therein, shall be liable
enjoined as provided in this chapter.
I; 76 Del. Laws, c. 158, § 8; 78 Del.
(30 Del. Laws, c. 234, § 2; Code l 935, § 5273; I 0 Del. C. 1953, § 7102; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484, §
Laws,c.16 1,§9 .)
§ 7105 Action to abate criminal nuisance.
General may bring an action to abate
(a) Whenever a criminal nuisance exists and it adversely impacts the community , the Attorney
§ 7111 and ·7113 of this title and to seek
a criminal nuisance under this title to obtain temporary and p erman e nt abatement relief under §
civil penalties provided under § 7126 of this title.
nuisance under this title on b ehalf
(b) Any other person, as defined in § 7103 of this title, may bring an action to abate a criminal
with a copy of the complaint within 5
of the Attorney General in the name of the State, provided the person serves the State Solicitor
receives a copy of the complaint. If the
days of filing. The Attorney General may elect to intervene and proceed with the action after it
to support the claim, the Attorney General
Attorney General reviews the complaint and determines that there is insufficient evidence
may dismiss the complaint.
I; 78 Del. Laws, c . 161, § I 0.)
(30 Del. Laws, c. 234, § 3; Code 1935, § 5274; I 0 Del C. 1953, ~ 71 03 ; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484, §
§ 7106 Jurisdicti on; complain t; notice of Jis pend ens.
the property is located .
(a) Any action under this chapter shall be brought in the Superior Court of th e county in which
Page 194
Paj 26
Title 10 - Courts and Judicial Procedures
(b) At or be fore the commencement of th e action a verified complaint alleging the facts constituting th e criminal nuisa nce shall be
filed in the office of the prothonotary of Superior Court, together with a notice of the pendency of the action, containing the names of the
parties, the object of the action, and a brief description or th e property affected thereby. Such notice of tis pendens shall be immediately
recorded by the prothonota1y.
(c) The Court shall have in rem jurisdiction over the premises alleged to be a criminal nuisance, and th e complaint initiating the civil
action pursuant to this chapter shall name as a defendant the premises involved, describing it by block, lot number and street address, or
by such means as are appropriate in the circumstances.
(30 Del. Laws, c. 234, § 4; Code 1935, § 5275; 10 Del. C. 1953, § 7104; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § l; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, §§ 11, 12.)
§ 7107 Affirmative defenses.
It shall be an affirmative defense for the owner or landlord to establish, by a preponderance of the evidence, that said owner or landlord
attempted to abate the alleged criminal nuisance prior to receiving notice in writing of the State's intent to bring a criminal nuisance
abatement action regarding the premises. Examples of actions that arc indicia of attempts to abate alleged criminal nuisances include
but are not limited to:
(I) Sending or delivering a notice pursuant to § 5513 of Title 25 that the conduct of the tenant, or their guests or invitees, breaches
a rule or covenant that is material to the rental agreement;
(2) Sending or delivering a tennination notice pursuant to § 5513(a) or (b) of Title 25;
(3) Filing an action for summary possession of the rental unit;
(4) Seeking police intervention to have those responsible for the action prosecuted and actively assisting the police in efforts to
prosecute those responsible for the actions or activities being complained of by the complainants.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § I; 70 Del. Laws, c. 186, § I; 76 Del. Laws, c. 158, § 9; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 13.)
§ 7108 Notice to interested parties.
(a) A complaint initiating an action pursuant to this chapter shall be personally served and notice to all in personam defendants shall be
provided in the same manner as serving complaints in civil actions. Where the in personam defendant is an owner or landlord, notice shall
also be served by leaving a copy of the complaint at the landlord's address as set forth in the lease or as otherwise provided by landlord
with an adult person residing therein, or with an agent or other person in the employ of the owner or landlord whose responsibility it is
to accept such notice. If the owner or landlord is an artificial entity pursuant to Supreme Court Rule 57, service of the notice or process
may be made by leaving a copy thereof at its office or place of business as set forth in the lease with an agent authorized by appointment
or by law to receive service of process. Where the in personam defendant is a tenant, notice shall also be served by leaving a copy of the
complaint at the person's rental unit or usual place of abode with an adult person residing therein. After filing an affidavit that personal
service cannot be had after due diligence on I or more in personam defendants, within 20 days after the filing of the complaint, the plaintiff
may serve a copy of the complaint by registered or certified mail or first class mail as evidenced by a certificate of mailing postage-
prepaid, addressed to the owner or landlord at the owner or landlord's business address as set forth in the lease or as otherwise provided
by the owner or landlord, or if the owner or landlord is an artificial entity, pursuant to Supreme Court Rule 57, at its office or place of
business, or if the defendant is a tenant, to said tenant at the leased premises. The return receipt of the notice, whether signed, refused
or unclaimed, sent by registered or certified mail, or the certificate of mailing if sent by first class mail, shall be held and considered
to be prima facie evidence of the service of the notice or process. The plaintiff shall also cause a copy of the complaint to be affixed
conspicuously to the premises alleged to be the site of a nuisance. Service shall be deemed completed 5 days after filing with the court
proof of such mailing and an affidavit that a copy of the complaint has been affixed to the premises.
(b) All tenants or residents of any premises which is used in whole or in part as a business, home, residence or dwelling, other than
transient guests of a guest house, hotel, or motel, who may be affected by any order issued pursuant to this chapter shall be provided such
reasonable notice as shall be ordered by the court and shall be afforded opportunity to be heard at all hearings.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § I.)
§ 7109 Substitution of plaintiff.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, §I; repealed by 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 14, eff. Aug. 3, 2011.)
§ 7110 Delay and dismissal of actions.
(a) All actions brought pursuant to this chapter shall be heard by the Court on an expedited and priority basis. The Court shall not grant
a continuance except for compelling and extraordinary reasons, or upon the application of the Attorney General for good cause shown.
(b) The Court shall not stay the civil proceedings pending the disposition of any related criminal proceeding except for compelling
and extraordinary reasons or except upon the application of the Attorney General for good cause shown.
(c) The Court shall not dismiss an action brought pursuant to this chapter for want of prosecution unless the Court is clearly convinced
that the interests of justice require such dismissal. In that event and upon such a finding, the dismissal shall be without prejudice to the
right of the plaintiff to re-institute the action.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § I; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 15.)
Page 195
Paj 27
Title 10 - Courts and Judicial Procedures
§ 7111 Temporary abatement hearing; order; procedure.
(a) To bring a civil action for abatement relief pursuant to this chapter, the Office of the Attorney General, or any other person
authorized, may file a complaint seeking temporary relief by alleging that the premises constitute a criminal nuisance which adversely
impacts the community. Upon receipt of the complaint, the Court, on application of the plaintiff, may issue an ex parte temporary abatement
order prohibiting the defendants and all other persons from committing or permitting any act or acts of waste to the premises, or to the
personal property and contents thereof, and from knowingly tampering with any evidence likely to be used by any party in any judicial
proceeding until the decision of the Court granting or refusing the temporary abatement order thereon. Absent such ex pane relief by the
Court, the Court shall order a preliminary hearing which shall be held no later than I 0 days from the date upon which service upon all
parties was completed, unless otherwise agreed to by the parties. In the event that service cannot be completed in time to give the owners
or tenants the minimum notice required by this subsection, the Court may set a new hearing date.
(b) A copy of the complaint together with a notice of the time and place of the hearing of the application for a temporary abatement
order shall be served upon the defendants at least 5 days before the hearing. If the hearing be then continued at the instance of any
defendant, the temporary writ as prayed shall be granted as a matter of course.
(c) Each defendant so notified shall serve upon the complainant, or the complainant's attorney, a verified answer on or before the date
fixed in the notice for the hearing and such answer shall be filed with the prothonotary's office wherein the cause is triable, but the Court
may allow additional time for so answering, providing such ex.tension of the time shall not prevent the issuing of the temporary writ as
prayed for. The allegations of the answer shall be deemed to be denied without further pleading.
(d) If the Court finds:
(I) That the premises constitute a criminal nuisance that adversely impacts the community,
(2) That at least 10 days prior to the filing of the complaint seeking temporary abatement relief, the owner or the owner's agent (or
tenant, where such is an in personam defendant) had been notified by certified letter of the criminal nuisance, and
(3) That the public health, safety or welfare immediately requires a temporary closing order and unless the owner or the owner's
agent shows to the satisfaction of the Court that the criminal nuisance complained of has been sufficiently abated, or that such person
proceeded forthwith to enforce his or her rights under this chapter as more fully set forth herein,
the Court shall issue a temporary abatement order to close the premises involved, the portions appropriate in the circumstances, or
any other temporary abatement rem.e.d}' requested..b.}'.theAt.torn.e..y .General's.O.ffice. The order.shall direct actions.necessary .to ph..)lsically
secure the premises, or appropriate portions thereof, against use for any purpose. The temporary abatement order may also prohibit the
defendant and all persons from removing or in any manner interfering with the furniture, fixtures and movable or personal property
located on or within the premises constituting the criminal nuisance. Where a tenant is a defendant, the Court may issue a closing order
prohibiting him or her from residing at or having contact with the premises.
(e) To determine whether the health, safety, or welfare of the community immediately requires a temporary abatement order, the Court
shall consider any relevant evidence presented concerning any attendant circumstances, including but not limited to:
( 1) The extent and 9.ura.tioo of the crimin.al nuis<1nce an.d s.eY.eri.ty of the.impact on the c.ommuoity;
(2) The proximity of the property to other residential structures;
(3) The number of times the owner or tenant has been notified of criminal nuisance related problems at the property;
(4) The prior efforts, or lack of efforts, by the defendant to abate the criminal nuisance;
(5) The involvement of the owner or tenant in the criminal nuisance;
(6) The costs incurred by the jurisdiction or community based organizations in investigating or attempting to correct the criminal
nuisance;
(7) Whether the criminal nuisance is continuous or recurring;
(8) Whether the criminal nuisance involves the use or threat of violence; or
(9) Any other factor the Court deems relevant and in the interests of the public health, safety, or welfare of the community.
(f) If the Court finds that the premises constitute a criminal nuisance but that immediate closing of the premises is not required pursuant
to subsection (cl) of this section, the Court may abate the criminal nuisance by issuing an order prohibiting the defendants and all other
persons from conducting, maintaining, aiding, abetting or pennitting events constituting the criminal nuisance, or from otherwise having
contact with the premises. Additionally, the Court may issue an order appointing a temporary receiver to manage or operate the premises or
order that any defendant take immediate actions including, but not limited to, the remedies listed in§ 7 l l 3(c)(7) of this title. A temporary
receiver shall have such powers and duties specifically authorized pursuant to § 7113 of this title.
(g) Notwithstanding the Delaware Rules of Evidence, any police report concerning the premises, and any witness statements contained
therein, may be admitted into evidence in determining the existence of a criminal nuisance or whether any form of temporary abatement
relief is appropriate.
(h) The abatement order shall be served pursuant to the procedures set forth in § 7108 of this title, and by both such delivery and
posting. The officer serving such abatement order shall forthwith make and return into Court an inve ntory of the personal property and
contents situated in and used in conducting or maintaining the criminal nuisance. The parties may enter into a consent order in relation
Page 196
Paj 28
Title 10 - Courts and Judicial Procedures
to or with respec t to tempora ry abatement re li e f or pemrn nent abatem ent reli ef. Any such ord er mu st be approved by th e Court. Any
violati on of such abatement order shall be a contempt o f court , and where such order is so posted, mutilation or remova l th ereof, while
th e same remains in force, shall be a cont empt of court, provided such posted order contains th ereo n or there in a noti ce to that e ffect.
(i) The temporary abat ement ord er shall remain in place until a pemianent abatement hearin g. Any violation of th e Court's temporary
abatement order shal I be contempt of court, to be punished as provided in this chapter.
U) The owner or owners of any real or personal property so closed or prohibited, or to be closed or prohibited , may petiti on the Court
for an expedited schedul e for th e pemianent abatement hearin g.
(k) The release of any real or persona l property under thi s section shall not release it from any judgment, lien, penalty, or li ability to
which it may be subjected by law .
(30 Del. Laws, c.' 234, § 4; Code 1935, § 5275; I 0 Del. C . 1953, § 7105; 70 Del. Laws, c. 186, § I ; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484 , § I ; 76 Del.
Laws, c. 158, §§ 10-15 ; 78 Del. Laws, c. 13, § 2; 78 D el. Laws, c. 161, § 16.)
§ 7112 Enforcing ex parte and temporary abatement orders.
(a) Upon order of the Court, ex parte closing orders and temporary abatement orders shall be enforced by the appropriate police agency
having jurisdiction over the area where the premises are located.
(b) The officers serving an ex parte closing order or a temporary abatement order shall file with the Court an inventory of the personal
property situated in or on the premises closed and shall be allowed to enter the premises to make th e inventory. The inventory shall provide
an accurate representation of th e personal property subject to such inventory including, but not limited to, photographing of furniture,
fixtures and other personal or movable property.
(c) The officers serving an ex parte closing order shall, upon service of the order, demand all persons present in the premises closed,
to vacate such premises or po11ion th ereof forthwith unless the Court orders otherwise. The premises or portion th ereof shall be securely
locked and all keys shall be held by the agency closing the premises.
(cl) Upon service of an ex parte closing order or a temporary abatement order, the officer shall post a copy thereof in a conspicuous
place or upon I or more of the principal doors at entrances of the premises. In addition, where an ex parte closing order has been granted,
the officers shall affix, in a conspicuous place or upon I or more of the principal entrances of such premises, a printed notice that the
entire premises or portion thereof have been closed by court order, which notice shall contain a legend "Closed by Court Order" in block
lettering of sufficient size to be observed by anyone intending or likely to enter the premises . The printed notice shall also include the
date of the order, the Court which issued the order and the name of the office or agency posting the notice. Jn addition, where a temporary
abatement order has been granted, the officer shall affix, in the same manner, a notice similar to the notice provided for in relation to
an ex parte closing order except that the notice shall state that certain activity is prohibited by court order and that removal of furniture,
fixtures or other personal or movable property is prohibited by court order.
(e) Any person who knowingly or purposely violates any ex parte closing order or temporary abatement order issued pursuant to this
chapter shall be subject to civil contempt as well as punishment for criminal contempt pursuant to §§ 1271-1272 of Title 11 and § 7129
of this title.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § I.)
§ 7113 Permanent abatement for all criminal nuisance actions; hearing; admissible evidence.
(a) An action, when brought under this chapter, shall be noticed for trial at a time to be fixed by the Superior Court.
(b) In the action evidence of the general reputation of the place, or an admission, or finding of guilt of any person under the criminal
laws at any such place, shall be admissible for the purpose of proving the existence of the criminal nui sance, and shall be prima facie
evidence of such criminal nuisance and of knowledge of and of acquiescence and participation therein on the part of the person ch arged
with m aintaining the criminal nuisance as defined in this chapter.
(c) If the existence of the criminal nuisance is established upon the trial, the Court shall gra nt permanent abatement reli ef which
perpetually prohibits th e defend ants and any other person from further maintaining the criminal nui sance at the place complained of, and
th e defendants from maintaining such criminal nuisance elsewhere within the State and sha ll issue such oth er orders as are necessary to
abate the criminal nuisance and to prevent to the extent reasonably possible the recurrence of the criminal nuisance. The Court's order
may include, but need not be limited to all of the following:
(I) Directing th e sheriff or other appropriate agency to se ize and remove from th e premi ses all material, equipment and
instrumentalities used in the creation and maintenance of the criminal nuisance, and directing the sheriff to sell the property in the
manner provided for the sa le of property under execution in accordance with the general rules o f civil procedure. The net proceeds o f
an y such sale, after the deduction of a ll lawful expenses involved, shall be paid pursuant to § 7114 o f this title.
(2) Authori zing th e plaintiffs, s ubsequent to an order granting plaintiffs th e right to seize th e propert y in question, to make repairs,
renovations and constru ction and structural alteration s or to take such other actions necessary to bring th e premi ses int o compli ance
with all applicable housin g, fire, zoning, health and safety codes, ordinances, rules, regul ati ons or statutes . Such repairs, renovati ons or
construction shall only be undertaken after the appropriate regul atory agency has first inspec ted th e property in qu estion, determin ed
Page 197
Paj 29
Title 10 - Courts and Judicial Procedures
that code, ordinance or statutory violations exist and has reported same to the Court. If no order of seizure is granted and the owner
or owners of the property remain in possession, the Court may order said owner or owners to make the appropriate repairs as set forth
herein following the inspection and determination of violations by the appropriate regulatory agency. Expenditures by the plaintiffs
pursuant to this paragraph may be filed as a lien against the property.
(3) Directing the closing of the premises, or appropriate portion thereof, to the extent necessary to abate the criminal nuisance, and
directing the officer or agency enforcing the closure order to post a copy of the judgment and a printed notice of such closing order
confonning to the requirements of§ 711 l of this title. The closing directed by the judgment shall be for such a period of time as the
Court may direct but, subject to the provisions of§ 7121 of this title, shall not be for a period of more than 1 year from the posting
of the judgment provided for in this subsection.
(4) Suspending or revoking any business, operational, rental or liquor license.
(5) Suspending or revoking any lease.
(6) Ordering the suspension of any state, city or local governmental subsidies payable to the owners of the property, such as tenant
assistance payments to landlords, until the criminal nuisance is satisfactorily abated.
(7) Appointing a temporary receiver to manage or operate the premises for such a time as the Court deems necessary to abate the
nuisance. A receiver appointed pursuant to this section shall have such powers and duties as the Court shall direct, including but not
limited to:
a. Collecting, holding and dispersing the proceeds of all rents from all tenants;
b. Leasing or renting portions of the premises involved;
c. Making or authorizing other persons to make necessary repairs or to maintain the property;
d. Hiring security or other personnel necessary for the safe and proper operation of the premises;
e. Retaining counsel to prosecute or defend suits arising from his or her management of the premises;
f. Bringing actions for summary possession of any premises; and
g. Expending funds from the collected rents in furtherance of the foregoing powers.
(8) A receiver appointed by the Court pursuant to this section or § 7111 of this title shall upon entering upon his or her duties be
sworn and shall affirm faithfully and fairly to discharge the tru§l COJ1l!llitteci to him or her, In ac\djtion, the receiver m(ly be ri::miired
to post a bond in an amount to be fixed by the Court making the appointment, to ensure that such receiver will faithfully discharge
his or her duties.
(9) If the existence of a criminal nuisance as defined in this chapter is admitted or established in an action under this chapter,
the Court may, in addition to the aforementioned remedies or sanctions, order the removal from the place of the criminal nuisance
all personal property and contents used in conducting the criminal nuisance and not already released under authority of the Court as
provided in § 7111 of this title, and shall further direct the sale of such thereof as belong to the defendants notified or appearing, in
the manner provided for the sale of chattels under execution.
( d) Owners ofunsold personal property and contents so seized must appear and claim same within I 0 days after such order of abatement
is made. The burden shall be on the owner to show, to the satisfaction of the Court, lack of any knowledge of the use thereof, and that with
reasonable care and diligence they could not have known thereof. Every defendant in the action shall be presumed to have had knowledge
of the general reputation of the place. If such innocence be so established, such unsold personal property and contents shall be delivered
to the owner; otherwise it shall be sold as provided in this chapter.
( e) If any person breaks and enters, or uses a place so directed to be closed, that person shall be punished as for contempt as provided
in this chapter.
(f) For removing and selling the personal property and contents, the officer shall be entitled to charge and receive the same fees as
that officer would for levying upon and selling like property on execution, and for closing the place and keeping it closed, a reasonable
sum shall be allowed by the Court.
(g) The Court may impose any or all of the foregoing remedies in combination with each other.
(30 Del. Laws, c. 234, § 5; Code 1935, § 5276; I 0 Del. C. 1953, § 7106; 70 Del. Laws, c. 186, § 1; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § l; 78 Del.
Laws, c. 161, § 17.)
§ 7114 Duty of Attorney General; proceeds of sale in all criminal nuisance actions.
(a) In case the existence of facts, circumstances and/or conditions that would constitute any criminal nuisance is established in a
criminal proceeding in any court of competent jurisdiction, the Attorney General shall proceed promptly to enforce the provisions and
penalties of this chapter, and the finding of the defendant guilty in such criminal proceedings, unless reversed or set aside, shall be
conclusive as against such defendant as to the existence of the criminal nuisance.
(b) All moneys collected under this chapter, including but not limited to proceeds of the sale of personal property, as provided in §
7113 of this title, shall first be applied in payment of the costs of the action and abatement and then in payment of reasonable attorney
fees. In the event the action is brought by the Attorney General, all moneys collected in excess of costs and reasonable attorney fees
Page 198
Paj 30
Title 10 - Courts and Judicial Procedures
shall be paid to the Special Law Enforcement Assistance Fund, as es tablished in §§ 4110-4116 of Title 11 . In actions brought unde r thi s
chapter by a county or municipality, all moneys collected in excess of costs and reasonable counse l fees shall be paid lo said county or
muni cipa lity. In all actions brought under this chapter by a person or persons other than not ed above, all moneys collected in excess of
costs, reasonable attorney fees and damage awards shall be paid to the Special Law Enforcement Assistance Fund.
(JO Del. Laws, c. 234, § 7; Code 1935, § 5278; 10 Del. C. 1953, § 7108; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484, §I; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 18.)
§ 7115 Lease void if building used for criminal nuisance.
Notwithsta nding any law, rule or regulation to the contrary, if a te nant or occupant of a building or tenement, under a lawful title, is
found after a hearing at which the tenant or occupant has appeared to have used such place for a criminal nuisance-related purpose, such
use makes void the lease or other title under which the tenant or occupant holds, at the option of the owner, and, without any act of the
owner, causes th e right of possession to rever1 to vest in such owner.
(59 Del. Laws, c. 257, § I; 70 Del. Laws, c. 186, § 1; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § 1; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161 , §§ 19, 20.)
§ 7116 Civil penalty.
(59 Del. Laws, c. 257, § 1; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § 1; rep ealed by 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 21, eff. Aug. J, 2011.)
§ 7117 Immunity.
(59 Del. Laws, c. 257, § l; 70 Del. Laws, c. 186, § 1; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § 1; repealed by 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 22, eff. Aug. 3,
2011.)
§ 7118 Notification and provision of treatment resources.
(a) The officers serving a closing order involving a criminal nuisance as defined in§ 7103(5)(a) of this title shall provide outreach
information and referral materials to all residents present on how to obtain alcohol and other drug treatment.
(b) In any case in which the Court orders the removal of any person from any dwelling pursuant to this chapter, the Court shall cause
notice to be provided to the local alcohol and drug agency, the Division of Family Services, and other appropriate social services agencies.
( c) A I-page summary of such information and materials shall be posted next to any ex parte closing order or temporary abatement
order posted in accordance with § 7112 of this title.
(d) The State Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health or its designee shall prepare all materials described in subsections (a)
and (b) of this section, and shall disseminate them to all which are empowered to enforce closing orders under this chapter.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § l ; 73 Del. Laws, c. 41, § l; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 23.)
§ 7119 Premises involving multiple residences or businesses.
(a) Where the premises constituting the criminal nuisance includes multiple residences, dwellings or business establishments, a
temporary or permanent closing order issued pursuant to any provision of this chapter shall, so .far as is practicable, be limited to that
portion of the entire premises necessary to abate the criminal nuisance and prevent its recurrence.
(b) In addition to any other relief expressly authorized by this chapter, the Court may order a defendant who actually knew or, based
on infonnation provided to said defendant, had reason to know of, the criminal nuisance, to provide relocation assistance to any tenant
ordered to vacate a premises pursuant to this chapter, provided that the Court determines that such tenant was not involved in the criminal
nuisance or any criminal nuisance constituting the criminal nuisance and did not knowingly aid in the commission of any such criminal
nuisance. Relocation assistance shall be in the amount necessary to cover moving costs, security deposits for utilities and comparable
housing, any lost rent, and any other reasonable expenses the Court may deem fair and reasonable as a result of the Court's order to close
a premises or any portion thereof pursuant to this chapter.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § 1; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, §§ 24-26.)
§ 7120 Defense application to vacate or modify closing order prior to trial.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § l; 70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §I; repeal ed by 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 27, eff. Aug. 3, 2011.)
'
§ 7121 Presumption against closure; vacating closure after abatement of nuisance and proof nuisance is not
likely to occur.
(a) Where the Court after trial determines that a premises or appropriate portion or portions thereof pursuant to § 7111 of this title
constitutes a nuisance, th e Court shall order the closure of the premises. No such closure shall be granted unless, in the totality of the
circumstances, no less onerous penalty is likely to provide for the abatement of the nuisance. Further, no order of closure shall occur
if the Court is clearly convinced that any vacancy resulting from the closure would exacerbate rather than abate the nuisa nce or would
otherwise be extraordinarily hannful to th e community or th e public interest. In detennining whether closure is the least onerous penalty,
th e Co urt shall consider:
( 1) Whether any previously agreed upon abatement plan, consent order, or other steps taken by a defendant have abated th e nuisance;
Page 199
Paj 31
Title 10 - Courts and Judicial Procedures
(2) The duration that any nuisance has existed on the premises and whether any court has previously found the existence of a
nuisance on the premises;
(3) The severity of the nuisance;
( 4) Whether the defendant has the ability to control the conduct on the premises or the ability to abate the nuisance;
(5) The impact of the continuation of the nuisance upon any neighborhood or community organization; and
(6) The position of any community or civic association which represents the communities in which the premises are located.
(b) The Court at any lime after trial may vacate the provisions of the judgment that direct the closing of the premises or any portion
thereof provided that the defendant submits clear and convincing proof to the Court that the nuisance has been satisfactorily abated and is
not likely to recur. In determining whether the nuisance has been satisfactorily abated and is not likely to recur, the Court shall consider
the nature, severity and duration of the nuisance and all other relevant factors, including but not limited to those factors set forth in §
7113 of this title.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § I; 76 Del. Laws, c. 158, § 17.)
§ 7122 Standard of proof.
Except as may otherwise be expressly provided, the civil causes of action established in this chapter shall be proved by a preponderance
of the evidence.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § I.)
§ 7123 Admissibility of evidence to prove criminal nuisance.
(a) Jn any action involving any criminal nuisance, evidence of the general reputation of the place or an admission or finding of guilty
of any person under the criminal laws at any such place is admissible for the purpose of proving the existence of said criminal nuisance
and is prima facie evidence of such criminal nuisance and of knowledge of and of acquiescence and participation therein on the part of
the person charged with maintaining said criminal nuisance.
(b) In any action brought pursuant to this chapter, any evidence of any prior efforts or lack of efforts by the defendant to abate the
criminal nuisance shall be admissible, and shall be considered by the court in its decision as to what, if any, remedies or penalties shall
be imposed.
(c) Where a: criminal prosecution or juveniie delinquency proceeding resuits in a cririiirial corivicfiori of aajiioiciifiori ofdellnquency,
such conviction or adjudication shall create a rebuttable presumption that the criminal nuisance occurred. Any evidence or testimony
admitted in the criminal or juvenile proceedings, including transcripts or a court reporter's notes of the transcripts of the adult or juvenile
criminal proceedings, whether or not they have been transcribed, may be admitted in the civil action brought pursuant to this chapter.
(d) In the event that the evidence or records of a criminal proceeding which did not result in a conviction or adjudication of delinquency
have been sealed in accordance with§ 10002(1) of Title 29, § 4322(a) of Title 11, and§§ [former] 1001 [now repealed], 1002 and 1063
of this title, the Court, in a civil action brought pursuant to this chapter may, notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, order
· such-evidence or--reeords·to ·be-unsealed ·ifthe·-Gourt finds ·that··such-evidence ·or-records-wouldbe·relevanMo-the-fair·disposition of the
civil action.
(e) If proof of the existence of the criminal nuisance depends, in whole or in part, upon the affidavits or testimony of witnesses who
are not peace officers, the Court may upon a showing of prior threats of violence or acts of violence by any defendant or any other person,
issue orders to protect those witnesses including, but not limited to, the nondisclosure of the name, address or any other information
which may identify those witnesses.
(f) A law-enforcement agency may make available to any person or entity seeking to secure compliance with this chapter any police
report, or edited portion thereof, or forensic laboratory report, or edited portion thereof, concerning the alleged criminal nuisance on or
within the premises involved. A law-enforcement agency may also make any officer or officers available to testify as a fact or expert
witness in a civil action brought pursuant to this chapter. The agency shall not disclose such information where, in the agency's opinion,
such disclosure would jeopardize an investigation, prosecution or other proceeding, or where such disclosure would violate any federal
or state statute .
. (72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § I; 76 Del. Laws, c. 158, § 19; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, §§ 28-32; 78 Del. Laws, c. 382, § I.)
§ 7124 Relationship to criminal proceedings.
A civil action may be brought and maintained pursuant to this chapter, and the Court may find the existence of a criminal nuisance,
notwithstanding that an event or events used to establish the existence of the criminal nuisance have not resulted in an arrest, prosecution,
conviction or adjudication of delinquency.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § I; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 33.)
§ 7125 Release of premises upon inspection or repair.
(a) Unless the Court expressly orders otherwise, no premises or portion thereof ordered to be closed pursuant to any provision of this
chapter shall be released or opened unless it has been inspected by the appropriate license and inspection authority or agency and found
Page 200
Paj 32
Title 10 - Courts and Judicial Procedures
to be in compliance with appli cabl e loca l or state housing, build ing, fire, zo ning, health and safely codes, ordin ances, rul es, regulations or
statutes. Whe re the inspecti on revea ls vio lati ons of any such code, ordin ance, rul e, regulati on or statute, the Court sha ll iss ue such orders
or gra nt such reli ef as m ay be necessary to brin g th e premises or porti on thereof into compliance. In th at event , th e Court may order th e
premises or portion th ereo f to remain closed pendin g such necessary repa irs or modifi ca ti on, notwithstanding that the ord er o f closure
may exceed the I-year time limit prescribed in § 711 3 of thi s title.
(b) The Court may authori ze any person or go vernm ent o ffi cial to enter a premi ses or portion th ereo f closed pursuant to this chapter
for the purpose of conducting an inspection or makin g any repairs or modifi cati ons necessary to abate the criminal nuisance or to bring
the premises or portion th ereof into compliance with any applicable housing, buildin g, fire, zoning, health or sa fety code, ordinance, rul e,
regulation or statute.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § 1; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, §§ 34, 35.)
§ 7126 Penalties.
(a) Where the Court after trial finds that a premises is a criminal nuisan ce, the Com1 in addition to granting appropriate abatement reli ef
shall impose a civil penalty against a defendant who kn owingly conducted, maintained, aided, abetted or permitted the criminal nuisance.
The Court shall order civil penalties in th e amount of$25 ,000 or the Court, al its discretion, may order a civil penalty up to $1,000 for each
day the criminal nuisance exists, whichever is greater, unless imposition of such penalty would constitute a miscarriage of justice under
the totality of the circumstances. In such case, it may lower the penalty am ount to the extent necessary to avoid such miscarriage of justice.
(b) For the purpose of imposing a civil penalty pursuant to this section, the following shall be prima facie evidence that the defendant
knowingly pem1itted the criminal nuisance:
(1) The defendant failed to initiate an eviction action pursuant to the provisions of this chapter or a summary possession action
pursuant to Chapter 57 of Title 25 or against a tenant after being notified by certified or registered mail of the facts pertaining to
the tenant's alleged illegal activities constituting a criminal nuisance committed on the leased premises which would in turn cause a
reasonable person to believe the allegations are likely to be tru e; or
(2) A closure order was vacated und er§ 7121 of thi s title within 2 years before the occurrence of th e instant criminal nuisance; or
(3) The defendant furthered, conspired as to, or p articipated in the commission of a crime on the premises.
( c) The Court at any time shall waive, suspend or revoke any unpaid civil penalty imposed pursuant to this section where it is satisfied
that:
( l) The defendant against whom the penalty has been imposed has not violated any order issued pursuant to any provision of this
chapter; and
(2) The defendant has transferred title to the plaintiff, a government agency or any other neighborhood or community organization
approved by the Court, provided that the recipient is a nonprofit incorporated organization or association which is exempt from taxation
under 26 U.S.C. § SO l ( c) and which is authorized by its corporate charter or bylaws to rehabilitate, restore, maintain, manage or operate
any commercial or residential premises. Unless otherwise agreed to by the recipient organization, the defendant shall personally retain
all state and local tax liability and the obligation shall allach to any other real property in the county owned by the defendant.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § l; 76 Del. Laws, c. 158, §§ 20, 21 ; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, §§ 36-39.)
§ 7127 Settlements.
(a) Nothing in this chapter shall be constrned in any way to prevent the parties to the action at any time before or after trial from
negotiating and agreeing to a fair settlement of the dispute, subject lo the approval of the Court. Any such settlement, once approved by
the Court, shall be entered as an order of the Court. Any violation of such an order by th e defendant shall be punishable as contempt
as provided in this chapter.
(b) The Court, on application of a plaintiff may vacate a closing order issued pursuant to this chapter where the defendant has transferred
title to the premises to the plaintiff, a government agency or any other neighborhood or community organization approved by the Court,
provided that the recipient is a nonprofit incorporated organi zation or associa tion which is exempt from taxation under 26 U.S .C. § 501 (c)
and which is authorized by its corporate ch art er or bylaws to rehabilitate, restore, maintain, manage or operate by commercial or residential
premises. In that event, the requirements for prerelease in spection set forth in § 7125 of this title shall not apply.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § l; 76 Del. Laws, c. 158, § 22 .)
§ 7128 Recovery of costs.
(a) Whenever an action for abatement relief or penalties brought pursuant to thi s chapter terminates in a settlement or judgment
favorabl e to the plaintiff, the plaintiff and any other gov ernmental entity shall be entitl ed to recover the actual cost of the suit, including
but not limited to reasonable attorney fees and expenses and disbursements by the plaintiff or any governm ental entity in investigating,
bringing, maintaining and enforcing the action and any court orders issued pursuant th ereto . All defendants shall be jointly and severally
li able for th e payment of taxed costs imposed pursuant to thi s section.
(b) A judgment awarding a pern1anent abat ement pursuant to thi s chapter shall be a li en upon the premi ses declared to be a criminal
nuisance unl ess title th ere to has been tran sferred pursuant to§§ 7126 and 7127 of thi s titl e. In addition, a judgment against an in person am
Page 20 I
Paj 33
Title 10 - Courts and Judicial Procedures
defendant imposing a civil penalty or bill of taxed costs pursuant to this chapter shall be a lien upon the real estate owned by the defendant
at the time of such rendition, and also upon all real estate the defendant may subsequently acquire, for a period of I 0 years from the date
of the judgment, subject to renewal of the judgment pursuant to § 4711 of this title.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § I; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 40.)
§ 7129 Contempt.
(a) Any person who knowingly violated any order issued pursuant to this chapter shall be subject to civil contempt as well as punishment
for criminal contempt under§§ 1271 and 1272 of Title 11. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed in any way to preclude or preempt
a criminal prosecution for violation of a controlled substance offense or any other criminal offense.
(b) In case of the violation of any abatement or closing order granted under this chapter, or the commission of any contempt of court
in proceedings under this chapter, the Court may summarily try and punish the offender.
(c) The proceeding shall be commenced by filing in the pending action with the prothonotary's office a motion for a rule to show cause
pursuant to Superior Court Civil Rule 64.1, accompanied by an affidavit showing service on the defendant and setting forth the facts
constituting the violation. The Court shall thereupon cause a subpoena to issue under which the defendant shall be required to appear and
defend the allegations. The hearing shall be oral before the Court, unless otherwise ordered by the Court and either party may demand
the production and oral examination of the witnesses.
(d) A party found guilty of contempt under this chapter shall be fined not less than $500 nor than $10,000, or imprisoned not less
than 3 months nor more than I year, or both. In addition, the court may impose an order of restitution or other conditions as the Court
deems appropriate.
(30 Del. Laws, c. 234, § 8; Code 1935, § 5279; IO Del. C. 1953, § 7109; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § 1.)
§ 7130 Cumulative remedies.
The causes of action and remedies authorized by this chapter shall be cumulative with each other and shall be in addition to, not in
lieu of, any other causes of action or remedies which may be available at law or equity. Further, nothing herein shall be construed as
to limit the power or authority of the Court in the enforcement of this chapter. However, in every case initiated under this chapter, the
Court shall impose the least onerous remedy possible.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § I.)
§ 7131 Liability for damage to closed properties.
(a) A court-ordered closing ofa premises or portion thereof pursuant to this chapter shall not constitute an act of possession, ownership
or control by the Court, the plaintiff or any government official or entity responsible for enforcing the court order.
(b) Any person or entity bringing, maintaining or enforcing any civil action or order issued in accordance with the provisions of this
chapter shall have immunity from any civil liability that might otherwise be incurred for any theft of, or loss, damage or injury to any
premises -cori-sfituting the criminal nuisance; or to anY- fixture, fumittire~ personaI or movable property located in or on-any sucli p-remises.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § I; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 41.)
§ 7132 Civil immunity.
Any person or entity who, in good faith, institutes, participates in, testifies in, or encourages any person or entity to institute, participate
in or testify in a civil action brought pursuant to this chapter or who in good faith provides any information relied upon by any person or
entity in instituting or participating in a civil action pursuant to this chapter, including but not limited to those persons defined or otherwise
identified in §§ 7103 and 7107 of this title, shall have immunity from any civil liability that might otherwise be incurred or imposed.
(72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § I.)
§ 7133 Civil action for damages resulting from criminal nuisance.
(a) Notwithstanding· the provisions of§ 7105 of this title, any person damaged in his or her business or property by reason of a
criminal nuisance may bring a separate civil action for actual damages in the Superior Court against any person who knowingly conducted,
maintained, aided, abetted or permitted criminal nuisance as defined in this chapter.
(b) In a civil action for damages pursuant to this section, the failure of an owner or landlord to initiate an eviction action against a
tenant in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 57 of Title 25, if the owner or landlord has been notified by certified or registered
mail of the tenant's involvement in a criminal nuisance on the leased premises, shall be prima facie evidence that the owner knowingly
gave pennission to engage in conduct constituting the criminal nuisance.
(c) In a civil action for damages pursuant to this section, expert testimony may be used to determine the amount of any actual damage
or loss incurred by reason of the criminal nuisance as defined in this chapter.
(d) Whenever an action for damages brought pursuant to this section terminated in a settlement or judgment favorable to the plaintiff,
the plaintiff shall be entitled to recover the actual cost of the suit, including but not limited to reasonable attorney fees and all expenses and
Page 202
Paj 34
Title I 0 - Courts and .Judicial Procrdurrs
dishmsL'll'IL'llls hy thL' plai111iff in in w ,1i gating, bringing and mainl:tini11g the· actiPn. ,<\ II del'l'lldanl s shall he j1llntl y and sl' l'crall y liahiL:
for thL· payml'nts Pi' taxc·d cn ~ ts i111pu,cd 11111::;11ant to this ' L:ction.
(c ) In any ciYil action l(ir darnagL'S brought pmsuant to this SL'l'liPn, any l'VidL'lll'l' admitkd or admis:. ihlc in a ci vil ad ion f(H ahat crm·nt
relief or pL·rialty pursuant tu this chaptn shall he admi ssible.
(T2 Dt'I. Laws, c. 48·1. ~I; /X Dl'I. l.aws. c. l<il. §~ ·12-4 7.)
~ 7134 Presumptions.
(a) 'The person in whosl' rialllL' the premises involved is recordl'd in the recorder or deeds office shall he pre.sum,;d to hL~ the owner
thereof.
(b) Whenever there is evidence that a person was the manager, operator, supervisor or was in any other way in charge or thl' premises
involved at the time or any conduct constituting thl' criminal nuisance is alleged to have been committed, such l'vidence shall be rebuttably
presumptive that sul'h person was an agent or employee or the ownl'r, landlord or lessee of the premises.
(78 Del. Laws, c. 161, ~ 48.)
Pagl.' 203
Paj 35
Title 10 - Courts and .Judicial Procedures
Part IV
Special Proceedings
Chapter 72
OBSCENITY AND LEWDNESS
§§ 7201 -7210. Definitions; nuisance; abatement of nuisance; injunction authorized; procedure in injunction
action; precedence of action; evidence; costs; content of judgment and order; court shall punish offender for
violation of injunction or order; lease void if building used for lewd purposes; civil penalty; immunity.
Repealed by 72 Dd. Laws, c. 484, § I, effective J\ug. 4, 2000. For present law, sec Chapter 71 of this title.
..
Pao1:
0
204
Paj 36
4TH DISTRICT CONSTITU~JNT'S
COMPLIANT I REQUEST FOR RELIEF
*******************************************************************************
City Hall Conference Room Located
April 6, 2016
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
*******************************************************************************
GETTING TOUGH ON THE ISSUES OF
PUBLIC SAFETY
AND
NUISANCE PROPERTYS
AGENDA:
1. Introduction of Kirkwood Neighborhood Watch Executive Committee, City /State Officials
and Concerned Citizens. [Councilman Sudlerl
2. Review of February 22, 2016 Meeting Minutes [Panel's Personal ReviewJ
3. Complaint Data/Contact Status with Elks? [Chief/ Representative - DPD]
4. History of Lodge #1125 Use with City of Dover [Council President Slavin]
5. Crirninal Nuisance Abatement Act, 10 DEL. C. Ch. 71. [DOJ -A.J. Roop]
6. Affirmative Steps for Permanent Relief/ Abatement from Elks. Lodge #1125.
A}. Declaration that the property is a Nuisance 10 DEL. C. Ch. 7113 [Open Discussion]
B}. Implementation Strategies for joint complaint filed by the City of Dover and the
State of Delaware with Delaware Superior Court [Open Discussion]
7. Next Meeting Date - - - - - - - - - -- - -- -- - - -- - - - - - --
8. Adjournment
1
Paj 37
4TH DISTl~ICT CONSTITUENT'S
COMPLIANT I REQUEST FOR RELIEF
Notes:
ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION'S
MEETING MINUTES
The Meeting with the Kirkwood Neighborhood Watch Executive Committee,
City I State Officials, and Concerned Residents was called to order by
Councilman Roy Sudler, Jr.
1' •bruary 22, 2016 ~ a1 prox imat ly l :00 .m.
Council President Mr. Tim Slavin, 1" District Councilman James Hutchinson, 4 1" District
Councilman Roy Sudler, Jr. Dover's Chief of Police Paul Bernat, Delaware's Deputy Attorney
General Albert J. Roop [Crime Strategies Unit], 31 sr District House of Representatives Sean Lynn,
Executive Committee President Chuck Jackson, Vice-President Charles White, and Executive
Advisor Carmen Hardcastle of Kirkwood Neighborhood Community Watch, Rev. Homes and Mr.
William Crawford both from Queen St. were present.
After Introduction of Roundtable Panel there was much discussion concerning the nature of the
resident's concerns, Councilman Sudler reviewed the meeting's purpose, mission, goal and narrative
of complaints received by Dover Residents that mostly lived on Kirkwood Street and surrounding
neighborhoods that have join together to form the Kirkwood Neighborhood Watch Community.
[Pl , s R ' ri 'W Panel-Pac k r fro m F •brn ary 22 201']
The conversation started with Mr. Jackson expressing that there have been an enormous amount of
fighting on Kirkwood Street, that usually occurs after the Lodge closes, he stated that one night his
wife woke him up early in the morning to break up a fight that had more than 20 people involved
that was taking place in his back yard, which is over 200' feet south of the Elks Lodge#1125.
Miss. Hardcastle who lives about 75' feet south of the Lodge, indicated that she had to hurry-up
and take cover after hearing a number of gun shots fired after the lodge let out, the shots caused
such an alarm, that when she tried to hurry up and take cover, she hit her head on the end of a table.
Mr. White who liYes about 175' feet south of the Lodge said, "There are more than two bullet
wholes in his window and he constantly hears gun shots being fired usually after the lodge closes for
the night". He also indicated that he personally has reached out to the Lodge Management in
regards to his concerns, but the fighting and shooting still exist.
2
Paj 38
I 4".l'H DISTRIC '11 CONSTIT UENT'S
1 · COMPLIA NT I REQUES T :F •oR REJ_JIEF
Councilman Sudler pointed out that another home not even 75' feet north of the Lodge has bullet
wholes as well in the vinyl siding near the front door entrance. Also, he talked about the Kirkwood,
Cecil, West, and Queen Street Conummities voting on the future of the E lks. Lodge #1125 in their
conununity [Votes Casts 18 - Relocate to 5 - Stay].
Rev. Holmes who lives behind the Elks Lodge on Queen Street stated that, "He was very
concerned about the element of people who attend the lodge and that when they get to fighting
people often tun through the back of his yard trying to escape the crowd that is after that person,
which puts he and his company alarmed and at--risk.
Mr. Crawford said that, "It didn't use to be like that about 20 to 30 years ago, but it seems to be an
ongoing problem that needs to be addressed expeditiously". He stated that he feels that it is time
for the Lodge to relocate to another community out of a residential area. He urged the panel to
inunediately take action on behalf of the community to secure the community's safety and well-
being.
1"1• District Councilman Hutchinson said, "He understood the concerns of the residents and
understands that maybe it's time for the Ell(s. Lodge #1125 to relocate out the Kirkwood
Residential Area, but he would like to see a soft-approach taken in resolving this matter".
Executive Committee President Chuck Jackson, 31"1 District House of Representatives Sean
Lynn and 4th District Councilman Roy Sudler, Jr. expressed to Councilman Hutchinson that the
Kirkwood Conununity and surrounding Stakeholders have utilized a "Soft-Approa ch" on more than
one occasion and have not received a positive response in regards to their concerns. In fact, in a
community meeting held in July 2015, the Elks Lodge Management initially said at the meeting that
they would be willing to hire adequate security or even Off-Duty Dover Police Officers to help
secure the safety of the com1rnmity, but as of February 2016, they have failed to do so.
Mr. Albert J. Roop Deputy Attorney General for the State of Delaware explained to the panel
how the Criminal Nuisance Abatement Act, 10 DEL. C. Ch. 71., applied to properties that have
had a high level of complaints due to criminal activity deemed as a public nuisance. He expressed
that the City of Dover and the State of Delaware could file a joint claim with the Superior Court of
Delaware to have the Dover Elks. Lodge #1125 temporary abated for one year with the possibility
of permanent abatement, which is similar to the Thunder-guar ds Motorcycle Club and the Gold
Club Exotic Night Club Case in Wilmington Delaware.
After intense discussion concerning what avenue to take in resolving the residents' concerns, Chief
Bernat of the Dover Police Department, asked the panel to allow him an opportunity to reach
out to the Lodge's Management to see how he could help convey the concerns of the Kirkwood and
Surrounding Communities. So the Panel agreed to grant,
1). Chief Bernat's request to allow him the opportunity to contact the Elks. Lodge #1125,
Management, within a 45 days' time period allotted, before the next meeting scheduled for April 6,
2016 and;
2). Chief Bernat said, "He would forward additional complaints called in by neighboring
communities of Kirkwood Street to Deputy Attorney General Albert J. Roop for additional review
and evidence to strengthen our claim against the Dover Elks. Lodge #1125.
3
Paj 39
4'1'1-l DISTrucr1~ CONS~Fl~I~UJ£N'11 'S
COl\-IPLIA Nrp I H~J(~lJI~srr 1~1 0H RJ~l . .IJ£~ 1
./ In e< 1nclusiun uf th e mL·e1 ing, 31' 1 District House of Representativ es Scan Lynn
suggested tn Co unciJ President Tim Slavin to ask Planning Director to submit t!l the Panel
1he File on the Duver Elks. Lndgc #I 125 consisting o f its Non-Con forming Use Status-
Stipulat:ions and any other information pet:tinent to this matter.
City Council-Pres ident said, ''( )k"
r-..kcring was adjourned by 12:0:7> p.m.
Meeting l'vl inutes Submitted to Round table Panel by 4 1" District Councilman Roy Sudler, Jr.
4
Paj 40
4'l'H DISTRIC T CONSTIT UENT'S
COMPLIA NT I REQUES T FOR RELIEF
TITLE 10
COURT S AND JUDICIA L PROCE DURE
SPECIA L PROCE EDINGS
CJIAPT ER 71. CRIMIN AL NUISAN CE ABATEM ENT
§ 7101 Short title.
This chapter shall be known as and may be cited as the "Criminal Nuisance Abatement Act".
72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § 1; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 2.
§ 7102 Purpose; construction.
(a) This chapter shall be liberally construed and applied so as to promote its underlying
purposes, which are:
(1) To authorize temporary and permanent abatement relief and other remedies to abate any
criminal nuisance as defined herein;
(2) To eliminate locations that otherwise attract criminals, violence and the threat of violence
associated with either illegal drug trade or any of the other nuisances defined herein;
(3) To abate drug nuisances and illegal drug activity as well as the other nuisances defined
herein that otherwise reduce property values, injure legitimate businesses and commerce and
erode the quality of life for law-abiding persons working or residing in or near these locations;
(4) To ensure that the civil actions and remedies authorized by this chapter be heard by the
courts on a priority basis to expeditiously identify and abate all nuisances, particularly those
involving illegal drug trade or activity; and
(5) To encourage owners, landlords, operators and managers of buildings, places or premises
(hereinafter referred to as "premise") to take the affirmative steps necessary to prevent
violations on their properties involving any of the above nuisances, particularly those
involving illegal drug trade or activity.
(b) A ny action brought pursuant to this chapter, regardless of the remedy or remedies sought or
ordered, is intended to be by the General Assembly and shall be deemed to be an action for
abatement of a criminal nuisance.
(c) Any action brought on the basis of a criminal nuisance defined at § 7103(5)b. of this title is
intended to abate the criminal nuisance existing on those properties where illegal firearms exist
and those who use illegal firearms congregate. It is not intended to interfere with the right to
lawful possession or use of firearms by law abiding citizens.
72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § 1; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, §§ 3-7.;
5
Paj 41
4'.t'I-I DISTRIC T CONSTIT UENT'S
COMPLIA NT I REQUES T FOR. RELIEF
§ 7103 Defrnitions.
As used in this chapter, mtless the context indicates differently:
(l) "A dverse impact" means the presence of l or more of the following conditions:
a. Diminished real property value related to nuisances associated with ch-ug activity, illegal
firearms, criminal gangs, violent felonies, prostitution, and other public nuisances in or
near the property;
b. Increased fear of residents to walk through or in public areas, including sidewalks,
streets, and parks, due to the presence of nuisances associated with drug activity, illegal
firearms, criminal gangs, violent felonies, prostitution, and other public nuisances;
c. Increased volume of vehicular and pedestrian traffic to and from the property that is
related to nuisances associated with drug activity, illegal firearms, criminal gangs, violent
felonies, prostitution, and other public nuisances;
cl. An increase in the number of police calls to the property that are related to nuisances
associated with drug activity, illegal firearms, criminal gangs, violent felonies, prostitution,
and other public nuisances;
e. Bothersome solicitations or approaches by persons wishing to engage in prostitution or
to sell controlled substances or drug paraphernalia on or near the property;
f. The presence, use, or display or discharge of illegal firearms at or near the property;
g. Investigative purchases of controlled substances or drug paraphernalia, or investigative
actions relating to prostitution by undercover law-enforcem ent officers at or near the
property;
h. Arrests of persons on or near the property for criminal conduct relating to nuisances
associated with drug activity, illegal firearms, criminal gangs, violent felonies, prostitution,
and other public nuisances;
i. Search warrants served or executed at the property relating to nuisances associated with
drug activity, illegal firearms, criminal gangs, violent felonies, prostitution, and other public
nmsances;
j. A substantial number of complaints made to law-enforcem ent and other government
officials regarding nuisances associated with drug activity, illegal firearms, criminal gangs,
violent felonies, prostitution, and other public nuisances;
k. Increased number of housing or health code violations relating to nuisances associated
with drug activity, illegal firearms, criminal gangs, violent felonies, prostitution, and other
public nuisances;
1. Any other impact the Court deems to be relevant and consistent with safeguarding the
public health, safety, and welfare of the community.
(2) "Controlled substance," "manufacture, " "distribution," "sale," "trafficking," and
"possession with intent to sell or distribute" shall have the same meaning as those terms are
used in Chapter 47 of Title 16.
6
Paj 42
I· 4™ DISTRIC T CONSTIT UENT'S
COMPLIA NT I REQUES T FOR RELIEF
I (3) "Court" means the Superior Court of the State of Delaware.
I (4) "Criminal gangs" means any ct:iminal street gangs or youth gangs as defined in §§ 616-617
of Title 11. "Pattem of criminal gang activity" shall have the same meaning as defined in §
616(a)(2) ofTitle 11.
(5) "Criminal nuisance" means any real property at which:
a. A n illegal drng event has occurred within the period of 1 year prior to the
commenceme nt of the civil action under this chapter; or
b. The illegal use, manufacture, causing to be manufactured, importation, possession,
possession for sale, sale, furnishing, storing or delivery of ammunition or firearms bas
occurred, or any act or acts which constitute any felony set forth in subpart E of
subchapter VII of Chapter 5 of Title 11 or an unlawful attempt or conspiracy to commit
such an act; or
c. Prostih1tion is promoted, facilitated or permitted in violation of§§ 1342-1344 and 1351 -
1356 of Title 11; or
d. Criminal gangs are engaging in a pattern of criminal gang activity; or
e. An act that would constitute a violent felony, as defined by § 4201 (c) of Title 11, has
occurred within the period of 1 year prior to the commenceme nt of the civil action under
this chapter; or
f. A material annoyance, inconvenience , discomfort, or a tangible injury occurs to
neighboring properties or persons, and which a court considers objectionable under the
circumstances, or any other public nuisance defined by state or municipal codes or
Delaware law.
(6) "Firearm" shall have the same meaning as that term is used in§ 222 of Title 11.
"Ammunition" shall have the same meaning as that term is used in§ 1448(c) of Title 11.
(7) "Illegal drug events" means the unlawful manufacture, distribution, trafficking, sale or
possession with intent to distribute, sell or deliver a controlled substance, or any act or acts
which constitute any felony set forth in Chapter 47 of Title 16, or an unlawful attempt or
conspiracy to commit such an act.
(8) "Landlord" shall have the same meaning as that term is defined in § 5141 of Title 25.
(9) "Owner" means any person in whom is vested the ownership and title of property, and
who is the owner of record. "Owner" shall include any local, city, county, state or federal
governmental entity.
(10) "Person" means a human being who has been born and is alive, and, where appropriate,
a public or private corporation, a trust, a firm, a joint stock company, a union, an
unincorporate d association, a partnership, a government or a governmental instrumentality.
(11) "Place," "site" or "premises" includes any building, structure, erection, or any separate
part or portion thereof, whether used as a residence, for commercial purposes or a house of
worship, or the ground itself.
7
Paj 43
I
4~,H DISTRIC': ti CONSTIT UENT'S
I· COMPLIA NT I REQUES T FOR RELIE}...,
I
30 Del. Laws, c. 234, § 1; Code 1935, 5272; 10 Del. C. 1953, § 7101; 53 Del. Laws, c. 360; 69 Del.
Laws, c. 248, §§ 1, 2; 72 Del. Laws, c. 31, §§ 1, 2; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § 1; 76 Del. Laws, c. 158,
1-7; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 8.;
§ 7104 Maintaining a criminal nuisance.
Any person, including but not limited to any owner, agent, employee or lessee, who uses
occupies, establishes, promotes, permits, facilitates, or conducts a criminal nuisance, or aids or
abets therein, shall be liable for maintaining a criminal nuisance and shall be enjoined as provided
in this chapter.
30 Del. Laws, c. 234, § 2; Code 1935, § 5273; 10 Del. C. 1953, § 7102; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § 1; 76
Del. Laws, c. 158, § 8; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, § 9.;
§ 7105 Action to abate criminal nuisance.
(a) Whenever a criminal nuisance exists and it adversely impacts the community, the Attorney
General may bring an action to abate a criminal nuisance under this title to obtain temporary and
permanent abatement relief under §§ 7111 and 7113 of this title and to seek civil penalties
provided under § 7126 of this title.
(b) Any other person, as defined in§ 7103 of this title, may bring an action to abate a criminal
nuisance under this title on behalf of the Attorney General in the name of the State, provided the
person serves the State Solicitor with a copy of the complaint within 5 days of filing. The
Attorney General may elect to intervene and proceed with the action after it receives a copy of
the complaint. If the Attorney General reviews the complaint and determines that tllere is
insufficient evidence to support the claim, the Attorney General may dismiss the complaint.
30 Del. Laws, c. 234, § 3; Code 1935, § 5274; 10 Del. C. 1953, § 7103; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § 1; 78
Del. Laws, c. 161, § 10.;
§ 7106 Jurisdiction; complaint; notice of lis pendens.
(a) Any action under this chapter shall be brought in the Superior Court of the county in which
the property is located.
(b) At or before the commenceme nt of the action a verified complaint alleging the facts
constituting the criminal nuisance shall be filed in the office of the prothonotary of Superior
Court, together with a notice of the pendency of the action, containing the names of the parties,
the object of the action, and a brief description of the property affected thereby. Such notice of
lis pendens shall be inlmediately recorded by the prothonotary.
(c) The Court shall have in rem jurisdiction over the premises alleged to be a criminal nuisance,
and the complaint initiating the civil action pursuant to this chapter shall name as a defendant the
premises involved, describing it by block, lot number and street address, or by such means as are
appropriate in the circumstances.
8
Paj 44
4ri"'H DISTRICT CONSTITUE NT'S
COMPLIANT I REQUEST FOR RELIEF
30 Del. Laws, c. 234, § 4; Code 1935, § 5275; 10 Del. C. 1953, § 7104; 72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § 1; 78
Del. Laws, c. 161, § 11, 12.;
§ 7111 Temporary abatement hearing; order; procedure.
(a) To bring a civil action for abatement relief pursuant to this chapter, the Office of the
Attorney General, or any other person authorized, may file a complaint seeking temporary relief
by alleging that the premises constitute a criminal nuisance which adversely impacts the
community. Upon receipt of the complaint, the Court, on application of the plaintiff, may issue
an ex parte temporary abatement order prohibiting the defendants and all other persons from
committing or permitting any act or acts of waste to the premises, or to the personal property
and contents thereof, and from knowingly tampering with any evidence likely to be used by any
party in any judicial proceeding until the decision of the Court granting or refusing the temporary
abatement order thereon. Absent such ex parte relief by the Court, the Court shall order a
preliminary hearing which shall be held no later than 10 days from the date upon which service
upon all parties was completed, unless otherwise agreed to by the parties. In the event that
service cannot be completed in time to give the owners or tenants the minimum notice required
by this subsection, the Court may set a new hearing date.
(b) A copy of the complaint together with a notice of the time and place of the hearing of the
application for a temporary abatement order shall be served upon the defendants at least 5 days
before the hearing. If the hearing be then continued at the instance of any defendant, the
temporary writ as prayed shall be granted as a matter of course.
(c) E ach defendant so notified shall serve upon the complainant, or the complainant's attorney, a
verified answer on or before the date fixed in the notice for the hearing and such answer shall be
filed with the prothonotary's office wherein the cause is triable, but the Court may allow
additional time for so answering, providing such extension of the time shall not prevent the
issuing of the temporary writ as prayed for. The allegations of the answer shall be deemed to be
denied without further pleading.
(d) If the Court finds:
(1) That the premises constitute a criminal nuisance that adversely impacts the community,
(2) That at least 10 days prior to the filing of the complaint seeking temporary abatement
relief, the owner or the owner's agent (or tenant, where such is an in personam defendant) had
been notified by certified letter of the criminal nuisance, and
(3) That the public health, safety or welfare immediately requires a temporary closing order
and unless the owner or the owner's agent shows to the satisfaction of the Court that the
criminal nuisance complained of has been sufficiently abated, or that such person proceeded
forthwith to enforce his or her rights under this chapter as more fully set forth herein,
the Court shall issue a temporary abatement order to close the premises involved, the portions
appropriate in the circumstances, or any other temporary abatement remedy requested by the
Attorney General's Office. The order shall direct actions necessary to physically secure the
premises, or appropriate portions thereof, against use for any purpose. The temporary abatement
order may also prohibit the defendant and all persons from removing or in any manner
interfering with the furniture, fixtures and movable or personal property located on or within the
9
Paj 45
4™ DISTRICT CONSTITUE NT'S
COMPLIANT I REQUEST ~-,OR RELIEF
premises constituting the criminal nuisance. Where a tenant is a defendant, the Court may issue a
closing order prohibiting him or her from residing at or having contact with the premises.
(e) To determine whether the health, safety, or welfare of the community immediately requires a
temporary abatement order, the Court shall consider any relevant evidence presented concerning
any attendant circmnstances, including but not limited to:
(1) The extent and duration of the criminal nuisance and severity of the impact on the
community;
(2) The proximity of the property to other residential structures;
(3) The number of times the owner or tenant has been notified of criminal nuisance related
problems at the property;
(4) The prior efforts, or lack of efforts, by the defendant to abate the criminal nuisance;
(5) The involvement of the owner or tenant in the crinlinal nuisance;
(6) The costs incurred by the jurisdiction or community based organizations in investigating
or attempting to correct the criminal nuisance;
(7) Whether the criminal nuisance is continuous or recurring;
(8) Whether the criminal nuisance involves the use or threat of violence; or
(9) Any other factor the Court deems relevant and in the interests of the public health, safety,
or welfare of the community.
(£) If the Court finds that the premises constitute a criminal nuisance but that immediate closing
of the premises is not required pursuant to subsection (d) of this section, the Court may abate the
criminal nuisance by issuing an order prohibiting the defendants and all other persons from
conducting, maintaining, aiding, abetting or permitting events constituting the criminal nuisance,
or from otherwise having contact with the premises. Additionally, the Court may issue an order
appointing a temporai-y receiver to manage or operate the premises or order that any defendant
take immediate actions including, but not limited to, the remedies listed in§ 7113(c)(7) of this
title. A temporai-y receiver shall have such powers and duties specifically authorized pursuant to §
7113 of this title.
(g) Notwithstanding the Delaware Rules of Evidence, any police report concerning the premises,
and any witness statements contained therein, may be admitted into evidence in determining the
existence of a criminal nuisance or whether any form of temporary abatement relief is
appropriate.
(h) The abatement order shall be served pursuant to the procedures set forth in § 7108 of this
title, and by both such delivery and posting. The officer serving such abatement order shall
forth\\ritl1 make and return into Court an inventory of the personal property and contents
situated in and used in conducting or maintaining the criminal nuisance. The parties may enter
into a consent order in relation to or with respect to temporary abatement relief or permanent
abatement relief. Any such order must be approved by the Court. Any violation of such
abatement order shall be a contempt of court, and where such order is so posted, mutilation or
removal thereof, while the same remains in force, shall be a contempt of court, provided such
posted order contains thereon or therein a notice to that effect.
10
Paj 46
4TH DISTRIC T CONSTIT UENT'S
COMPLIA NT I REQUES T FOR RELIEF
(i) The temporary abatement order shall remain in place until a permanent abatement hearing.
Any violation of the Court's temporary abatement order shall be contempt of court, to be
punished as provided in this chapter.
G) The owner or owners of any real or personal property so closed or prohibited, or to be closed
or prohibited, may petition the Court for an expedited schedule for the permanent abatement
hearing.
(k) The release of any real or personal property under this section shall not release it from any
judgment, lien, penalty, or liability to which it may be subjected by law.
§ 7113 Permanent abatement for all criminal nuisance actions; hearing; admissible evidence.
(a) An action, when brought under this chapter, shall be noticed for trial at a time to be fixed by
the Superior Court.
(b) In the action evidence of the general reputation of the place, or an admission, or finding of
guilt of any person under the criminal laws at any such place, shall be admissible for the purpose
of proving the existence of the criminal nuisance, and shall be prima facie evidence of such
criminal nuisance and of knowledge of and of acquiescence and participation therein on the part
of the person charged with maintaining the criminal nuisance as defined in this chapter.
(c) If the existence of the criminal nuisance is established upon the trial, the Court shall grant
permanent abatement relief which perpetually prohibits the defendants and any other person
from further maintaining the criminal nuisance at the place complained of, and the defendants
from maintaining such criminal nuisance elsewhere within the State and shall issue such other
orders as are necessary to abate the criminal nuisance and to prevent to the extent reasonably
possible the recurrence of the criminal nuisance. The Court's order may include, but need not be
limited to all of the following:
(1) Directing the sheriff or other appropriate agency to seize and remove from the premises
all material, equipment and instrumentalities used in the creation and maintenance of the
criminal nuisance, and directing the sheriff to sell the property in the manner provided for the
sale of property under execution in accordance with the general rules of civil procedure. The
net proceeds of any such sale, after the deduction of all lawful expenses involved, shall be paid
pursuant to§ 7114 of this title.
(2) Authorizing the plaintiffs, subsequent to an order granting plaintiffs the right to seize the
property in question, to make repairs, renovations and construction and structural alterations
or to take such other actions necessary to bring the premises into compliance with all
applicable housing, fire, zoning, health and safety codes, ordinances, rules, regulations or
statutes. Such repairs, renovations or construction shall only be undertaken after the
appropriate regulatory agency has first inspected the property in question, determined that
code, ordinance or statutory violations exist and has reported same to the Court. If no order
of seizure is granted and the owner or owners of the property remain in possession, the Court
may order said owner or owners to make the appropriate repairs as set forth herein following
the inspection and determination of violations by the appropriate regulatory agency.
Expenditures by tl1e plaintiffs pursuant to this paragraph may be filed as a lien against the
property.
11
Paj 47
4'l'H DISTRIC T CONSTIT UENT'S
COMPLIA NT I REQUES T FOR RELIEF
(3) Directing the closing of the premises, or appropriate portion thereof, to the extent
necessary to abate the criminal nuisance, and directing the officer or agency enforcing the
closure order to post a copy of the judgment and a printed notice of such closing order
conforming to the requirements of§ 7111 of this title. The closing directed by the judgment
shall be for such a period of time as the Court may direct but, subject to tlie provisions of §
7121 of this title, shall not be for a period of more than 1 year from the posting of the
judgment provided for in this subsection.
(4) Suspending or revoking any business, operational, rental or liquor license.
(5) Suspending or revoking any lease.
(6) Ordering t11e suspension of any state, city or local governmental subsidies payable to the
owners of the property, such as tenant assistance payments to landlords, until the criminal
nuisance is satisfactorily abated.
(7) Appointing a temporary receiver to manage or operate the premises for such a time as the
Court deems necessary to abate the nuisance. A receiver appointed pursuant to this section
shall have such powers and duties as the Court shall direct, including but not limited to:
a. Collecting, holding and dispersing the proceeds of all rents from all tenants;
b. Leasing or renting portions of the premises involved;
c. Making or authorizing other persons to make necessary repairs or to maintain the
property;
d. Hiring security or other personnel necessary for the safe and proper operation of the
prerruses;
e. Retaining counsel to prosecute or defend suits arising from his or her management of
the premises;
f. Bringing actions for summary possession of any premises; and
g. Expending funds from the collected rents in furtherance of the foregoing powers.
(8) A receiver appointed by the Court pursuant to this section or § 7111 of this title shall
upon entering upon his or her duties be sworn and shall affirm faithfully and fairly to
discharge the trust committed to him or her. In addition, the receiver may be required to post
a bond in an amount to be fixed by the Court making the appointment, to ensure that such
receiver will faithfully discharge his or her duties.
(9) If the existence of a criminal nuisance as defined in this chapter is admitted or established
in an action under this chapter, the Court may, in addition to the aforementione d remedies or
sanctions, order the removal from the place of the criminal nuisance all personal property and
contents used in conducting tlie criminal nuisance and not already released under autliority of
die Court as provided in§ 7111 of this title, and shall further direct the sale of such thereof as
belong to the defendants notified or appearing, in the manner provided for the sale of chattels
under execution.
(d) Owners of unsold personal property and contents so seized must appear and claim same
within 10 days after such order of abatement is made. The burden shall be on the owner to show,
12
Paj 48
4T1-1 DISTRICr J.1 CONSTIT UENT'S
COMPLIA NT I REQUES T FOR RELIEF
(e) If proof of the existence of the criminal nuisance depends, in whole or in part, upon the
affidavits or testimony of witnesses who are not peace officers, the Court may upon a showing of
prior threats of violence or acts of violence by any defendant or any other person, issue orders to
protect those witnesses including, but not limited to, the nondisclosure of the name, address or
any other information which may identify those witnesses.
(f) A law-enforcem ent agency may make available to any person or entity seeking to secure
compliance with this chapter any police report, or edited portion thereof, or forensic laboratory
report, or edited portion thereof, concerning the alleged criminal nuisance on or within the
premises involved. A law-enforcem ent agency may also make any officer or officers available to
testify as a fact or expert witness in a civil action brought pursuant to this chapter. The agency
shall not disclose such information where, in the agency's opinion, such disclosure would
jeopardize an investigation, prosecution or other proceeding, or where such disclosure would
violate any federal or state statute.
72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § 1; 76 Del. Laws, c. 158, § 19; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, §§ 28-32; 78 Del. Laws, c.
382, § 1.;
§ 7133 Civil action for damages resulting from criminal nuisance.
(a) Notwithstand ing the provisions of§ 7105 of this title, any person damaged in his or her
business or property by reason of a criminal nuisance may bring a separate civil action for actual
damages in the Superior Court against any person who knowingly conducted, maintained, aided,
abetted or permitted criminal nuisance as defined in this chapter.
(b) In a civil action for damages pursuant to this section, the failure of an owner or landlord to
initiate an eviction action against a tenant in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 57 of
Title 25, if the owner or landlord has been notified by certified or registered mail of the tenant's
involvement in a criminal nuisance on the leased premises, shall be prima facie evidence that the
owner knowingly gave permission to engage in conduct constituting the criminal nuisance.
(c) In a civil action for damages pursuant to this section, expert testimony may be used to
determine the amount of any actual damage or loss incurred by reason of the criminal nuisance as
defu1ed in this chapter.
(d) Whenever an action for damages brought pursuant to this section terminated in a settlement
or judgment favorable to the plaintiff, the plaintiff shall be entitled to recover the actual cost of
the suit, including but not limited to reasonable attorney fees and all expenses and disbursements
by the plaintiff in investigating, bringing and maintaining the action. All defendants shall be
jointly and severally liable for the payments of taxed costs imposed pursuant to this section.
(e) In any civil action for damages brought pursuant to this section, any evidence admitted or
admissible in a civil action for abatement relief or penalty pursuant to this chapter shall be
admissible.
72 Del. Laws, c. 484, § 1; 78 Del. Laws, c. 161, §§ 42-47.;
15
Paj 49
4TH DIST RICT CONS TITU ENT'S
COMP LIAN T I REQU EST FOR RELI EF
*******************************************************************************
City Hall Confere nce Room Located
Februar y 22, 2016
11:00 a.m.
************~**************************************************
****************
Agenda :
1. Introduction of Kirkwood Neighborhood Watch Executive Committee & City/Sta te
Officials
2. Purpose of Meeting
3. Mission
4. Narrative of CompW.nt [DPD History of 217 N. Kirkwo od/ Community Votes! 18 to
7]
5. Goal
6. Request for Relief / Exhibit A - C. Cases
7. Additional Comments / Strategies for Relief [Open Discussion]
8. Next Meeting Date
9. Adjournment
Notes:
1
Paj 50
4TH DISTR ICT CONS TITUE NT'S
COMP LIANT I REQU EST FOR RELIE F
Introduction of Kirkwood Neighbo rhood Watch Executive Committee, Local & State
Officials:
Purpose:
To combine Local and State Governm ent Resources to eliminate the Dover Elks Lodge #1125
Located @ 217 North Kirkwood Street Dover, Delaware, which attracts criminal violence, reduces
property values and erodes the quality of life for law-abiding citizens working or residing in or near
the Kirkwood, Cecil, Queen and West Street in Dover, Delaware.
Mission:
To highlight the Lodge's activities that exemplifies the very essence of Criminal Nuisance Property
that manifest numerous arrest of individuals near or coming from the property for disorderly
conduct, loud noise/ party, shootings, fights, criminal mischief, loitering, burglary, stabbing /
cutting, offensive touching, weapons and warrant service.
Narrative of Complaint:
The Kirkwood Neighbor hood Watch Executive Committe e does not have confidence that the
Dover Elks Lodge #1125 located@ 217 North Kirkwood Street Dover, Delaware is willing to or
capable of conductin g business without jeopardizing the general welfare of the public's safety.
In fact, Lodge #1125 has been the site and magnet for illicit activity where Dover Police
Departm ent has repeatedly been called to the site of Lodge #1125 to address criminal nuisance
issues. Residents residing on Kirkwood, Queen, Cecil, Fulton and West Street have identified and
deemed Lodge #1125 as a social problem that is an ongoing threat to the physical security and
general welfare of their communi ty and needs to be relocated to another venue.
The volume and severity of criminal activity that takes place during or after the closing of the lodge
has potential to cause economic damage and decline in property value, which impacts the quality of
life for our communi ty and constitutes grounds for permanen t abatement of Non-Con forming
Property Use Status.
2
Paj 51
217 N KIRKWOOD STREET (£LKS ) 2015
lnddent Number Call Date/Time Incident Type
2015-00037924 12/20/2015 1:14 Loitering
2015-00037177 12/13/2015 23:08 Loitering
2015-00036268 12/06/2015 0:05 Disorderly Conduct
2015-00035581 11/30/2015 0:07 Disorderly Conduct
2015-00032372 10/31/2015 0:18 Fight ,
2015-00031575 10/24/2015 1:22 Loud Noise/Party
2015-00030023 10/10/2015 11:18 Criminal Mischief
2015-00029986 10/10/2015 1:27 Shots Fired
2015-00029646 10/06/2015 18:03 Theft
201S-00029340 10/04/2015 1:17 Loitering
2015-00025217 08/30/2015 1:04 Criminal Mischief
2015-00025207 08/29/2015 23:13 Shots Fired
2015-00022799 08/09/2015 0:54 Loitering
2015-00021176 07/25/2015 0:48 Property Check
2015-00019729 07/13/2015 1:11 Loitering
2015-00019628 07/12/2015 0:53 Property Check
2015-00018938 07/06/2015 0:48 PublicAs~t
2015-00018100 06/28/2015 0:48 Loitering
2015-00014546 05/31/2015 0:53 Disorderly Conduct
2015-00013855 05/26/2015 0:23 Loitering
2015-00013743 05/25/2015 2:42 Alarm Burglary
2015-00013741 05/25/2015 1:22 Loitering
2015-00001558 01/19/2015 3:14 Accid PD
2015-00001557 01/19/2015 2:31 Follow Upi
2015-00001551 01/19/2015 0:35 Shooting l
2015-00001505 01/18/2015 0:33 Fight \
Paj 52
21 7 N KIRKWOOD STREET (£JLJ(S) 2014
Incident Number Call Date/Time Incident Type
2014-00034369 12/19/2014 0:01 Resisting Arrest
2014-00034368 12/18/2014 23:48 Warrant Service
2014-00034363 12/18/2014 22:34 Weapon Gun
2014-00033747 12/12/2014 23:01 Stop
2014-00031720 11/22/2014 23:56 Disorderly Conduct
2014-00031005 11/16/2014 0:58 Property Check
2014-00030784 11/14/2014 0:14 Fight
2014-00020096 08/02/2014 0:18 Fight
2014-00018149 07/13/2014 0:26 Loitering
2014-00017471 07/06/2014 0:32 Shooting
2014-00017466 07/05/2014 23:13 Trespass
2014-00014556 06/08/2014 2:15 Property Check
2014--00014547 06/08/2014 0:39 Alarm Burglary
2014-00012929 05/23/2014 12:12 Burglary
2014-00011708 05/11/2014 0:01 Loud Noise/Party
2014-00007454 03/29/2014 23:38 Disorderly Conduct
2014-00006888 03/22/2014 22:43 EMO
2014-00006202 03/15/2014 0:23 Loud Noise/Party
Paj 53
217 N KIRKWOOD STR££T (ELK S) 201.3
Incident Number Call Date/Time Incident Type
2013-00035426 12/28/201 3 23:08 Trespass
2013-00034926 12/22/201 3 0:01 Fight,
2013-00033560 12/06/201 3 22:39 Offensive Touching
2013-00028361 10/12/201 3 0:22 Fight
2013-00026292 09/21/201 3 23:45 Loitering
2013-00022742 08/19/201 3 1:49 Property Found
2013-00022738 08/19/201 3 0:30 Shots Fired
2013-00022667 08/18/201 3 0:56 Weapon Gun
2013-00022656 08/17/201 3 22:49 Loitering
2013-00022646 08/17/2013 21:45 Stabbing/ Cutting
2013-00002448 01/27/2013 0:10 Fight ,
\
Paj 54
217 N KIRKWOOD STREET (ELKS) 2012
Incident Number Call Date/Time Incident Type
2012-00027517 10/05/2012 23:41 Lou~ Noise/Party
2012-00022514 08/18/2012 18:25 Traffic Haz/Serv
2012-00011156 04/25/2012 20:04 Criminal Mischief
2012-00005741 03/03/2012 1:08 Loitering
2012-00002676 01/30/2012 1:08 Terr Threatening
2012-00002675 01/30/2012 1:02 Disorderly Conduct
2012-00002671 01/30/2012 0:15 Domestic
2012-00002263 01/25/2012 15:22 Alarm Burglary
2012-00002239 01/25/2012 12:32 Alarm Burglary
2012-00002190 01/24/2012 21:55 Alarm Burglary
Paj 55
217 N KIRKW'OOD STREET (El.J IB) 2011
Incident Number Call Date/Time lncid~nt Type
2011-00034378 12/26/20 1117:20 Alarm Burglary
2011-00034349 12/26/20 111:07 Disorderly Conduct
2011-00034348 12/25/20 11 23:43 Disorderly Conduct
2011-00034135 12/23/20 11 7:48 Alarm Burglary
2011-00032149 12/04/20 11 21:46 Loud Noise/Party
2011-00031928 12/02/20 1117:32 Loud Noise/Party
2011-00031123 11/23/20 11 23:45 Loud Noise/Party
2011-00020899 08/15/20 1119:54 Public Asst
2011-00016501 07/02/2011 21:40 Suspicious Event
2011-00011862 05/17/201113 :35 Animal Complaint
2011-00005186 03/05/20 11 0:43 Fight
2011-00003563 02/14/20 11 0:05 Loitering
@
Paj 56
217 N KIRKWOOD STREET (£LKS) 2010
Incident Number Call Date/Time Incident Type
2010-00026722 10/16/2010 1:02 Assault
2010-00026023 10/09/2010 0:46 Disorderly Conduct
2010-00025517 10/04/2010 11:12 Stabbing/Cutting
2010-00024725 09/26/2010 4:08 Burglary
2010-00020921 08/18/2010 2:53 Property Check
2010-00020920 08/18/2010 2:20 Alarm Burglary
2010-00020686 08/15/2010 13:59 Burglary
2010-00020667 08/15/2010 2:33 Alarm Burglary
2010-00017929 07/17/2010 22:40 Public Asst
2010-00016479 07/03/2010 0:56 Welfare Check
2010-00014155 06/10/2010 15:22 Alarm Burglary
2010-00012983 05/29/2010 0:25 Disorderly Conduct
2010-00012333 05/22/2010 1:16 Disorderly Conduct
'
Paj 57
217 N KIRK~OOD STREET (ELKS) 200 9
Incident Number Call Date/Tim e Incident Type
2009-00027340 11/16/20 09 0:05 Drug
2009-00025627 10/27/2009 1:02 Fight·
2009-00017362 07/26/2009 23:58 Drug
2009-00016349 07/16/2009 0:38 Welfare Check
2009-00016084 07/13/2009 0:35 loitering
2009-00014819 06/28/20 09 23:39 Loud Noise/Party
2009-00014181 06/22/20 09 0:27 Public Asst
2009-00014177 06/21/20 09 23:03 Loud Noise/Party
2009-00012917 06/08/20 09 0:04 Loitering
2009-00012881 06/07/2009 16:06 Public Asst
2009-00012408 06/02/20 0911:21 Welfare Check
2009-00010948 05/18/20 09 0:21 Loitering
2009-00010910 05/17/20 0911:48 Loud Noise/Party
2009-00010318 05/10/20 09 23:59 loitering
2009-00009712 05/03/20 09 23:08 Loud Noise/Party
2009-00009093 04/27/2009 0:04 loitering
2009-00008501 04/19/20 09 22:56 Loud Noise/Party
2009-00007940 04/13/20 09 0:17 Loitering
2009-00005900 03/19/20 09 13:56 Harassment
2009-00003387 02/14/20 09 2:53 Resisting Arrest
i009-000 03384 02/14/20 09 2:25 Resisting Arrest
2009-00003381 02/14/20 09 1:52 Shots Fired
2009-00002960 02/08/20 09 23:47 Disorderly Conduct
2009-00002460 02/03/20 09 1:06 Fight
Paj 58
217 N KIRKW'OOD STRE£T (£LKS) 2ooa
Incident Number Call Date/rime Incident Type
2008-00032140 12/29/2008 0:17 Public Asst
2008-00030188 12/05/2008 2:24 Assault
2008-00024510 09/28/2008 22:21 Loitering
2008-00021190 08/24/2008 23:51 Fight
2008-00021026 08/23/2008 0:33 Loud Noise/Party
2008-00020045 08/11/2008 0:20 Loud Noise/Party
2008-00018235 07/21/2008 0:22 Loitering
2008-00015667 06/23/2008 0:05 Loiter.Ing
2008-00015483 06/21/2008 0:10 Disorderly Conduct
2008-00012693 05/24/20081:14 Loud Noise/Party
2008-00012235 05/19/2008 0:12 Loitering
2008-00010086 04/26/2008 0:30 Fight
2008-00010084 04/26/2008 0:15 Fight
2008-00008642 04/10/2008 19:23 Shots Fired
2008-00008319 04/06/2008 23:53 Fi gilt
2008-00008172 04/04/2008 23:46 Welfare Check
2008-00007675 03/31/2008 0:15 Disorderly Conduct
2008-00007672 03/30/2008 22:55 Disorderly Conduct
2008-00006982 03/22/2008 21:06 Disorderly Conduct
2008-00006687 03/19/2008 18:07 Assault
2008-00006624 03/19/2008 1:04 911D Land Line
2008-00006469 03/17/2008 10:17 Repossession
2008-00006272 03/15/2008 0:38 Fight
Paj 59
217 N KIRKWOOD STR ££T (£UC S) 200 7
Incident Number Call Date/Tim e Incident Type
2007-00027366 10/26/20 07 22:21 EMO
2007-00022639 09/08/2007 0:10 Criminal Mischief
2007-00021971 08/31/2007 23:50 Fight
2007-00021269 08/25/2007 1:16 Loiterilig
2007-00020803 08/19/2007 23:42 Disorderly Conduct
2007-00020651 08/18/20 07 0:58 Loiteri~g
2007-00018959 07/30/2007 22:08 Loitering
2007-00016824 07 /07 /2007 0:06 Shots Fired
2007-00015434 06/23/20 07 1:22 Disorderly Conduct
2007-00015432 06/23/20 07 1:10 Fight
2007-00014878 06/16/2007 20:35 Theft
2007-00014813 06/16/20 07 0:49 Fight
.2007-00014803 06/15/2007 22:34 Domestic
2007-00014214 06/09/2007 1:17 Loitering
2007-00013882 06/05/2007 20:26 Public ('.sst
2007-00012794 05/26/20 07 1:05 Loitering
2007-00011000 05/07/2007 11:56 Public Asst
2007-00010837 05/05/2007 18:10 Weapon Other
2007-00010834 05/05/20 0717:43 Disorderly Conduct
2007-00010180 04/29/20 07 3:47 Suspicious Event
2007-00010056 04/28/20 07 0:38 Shots Fired
2007-00009563 04/22/2007 23:47 Loud Noise/Party
2007-00007439 03/29/2007 18:32 9110 Land Line
2007-00006270 03/16/20 07 1:57 Medical Transport
2007-00003017 02/04/2007 23:50 Fight
2007-00002007 01/24/20 07 16:46 9110 Land Line
Paj 60
217 N KIRKWOOD STREET (ELKS) 2006 -
Incident Number Call Date/Time Incident Type
2006-00033732 12/31/2006 23:01 Public Asst
2006-00030414 11/22/2006 15:39 Alarm Bank
2006-0002835 7 10/29/2006 23:39 Shooting ·
2006-00026474 10/08/2006 23:25 Parking Violation
2006-00025852 10/02/2006 16:26 Criminal Mischief
2006-00023450 09/09/2006 0:24 Fight
2006-00021628 08/21/2006 7:31 Theft
2006-00021425 08/19/20061:11 Loitering
2006-00018667 07/21/200613:47 Alarm Burglary
2006-00016873 07/03/2006 0:09 Loud Noise/Party
2006-00016096 06/24/2006 0:20 Escort
2006-00014882 06/10/2006 12:33 Alarm Burglary
2006-00014133 06/03/2006 0:08 Assault
2006-00013653 05/29/2006 18:54 9110 Land Line
2006-00012048 05/13/2006 0:43 Disorderly Conduct
2006-00010487 04/28/2006 23:52 Fight
2006-00010228 04/26/2006 19:57 Fight
2006-00009152 04/15/2006 11:38 Traffic Haz/Serv
2006-00009127 04/15/2006 0:53 Shooting
2006-00008472 04/07/200611:14 Criminal Mischief
2006-0000789~ 04/01/2006 0:45 Fight
2006-00007198 03/24/2006 0:39 Domestic'
2006-00006732 03/18/2006 1:00 Harassment
Paj 61
21. 7 .N KIRK.\\'OOD STR£E~r (ELK S) 201 6
Incident Number Call Date/Tim e Incident Type
2016-00000256 01/03/20 16 18:52 Disorderly Conduct
Paj 62
Kirkwood Area Oct 21 to Nov 5 2015
Incident Number Call Date/Time Dispositions Location Incident Type
2015-000312959 11/05/2 015 11:24 2XX N WEST ST, Dover EMO
2015-000312927 11/05/2 015 2:47 All Cars Advised - 1 2XX N KIRKWOOD ST, Dover BOLO Local
2015-0003[2911 11/04/2 015 21:14 Service Rendered - 1 3X N NEW ST, Dover Follow Up
2015-0003~852 11/04/2 015 13:19 GOA-1 2XX MARY ST, Dover Warran t Service
2015-000312733 11/03/2 015 13:02 GOA-1 2X N NEWST, Dover Animal Compla int
2015-00 03 2727 11/03/2 015 12:07 PR - 1 CECIL ST/ N GOVERNORS AVE, Dover Theft
2015-0003!2710 11/03/2 015 10:00 NPR -1 3XX N QUEEN ST, Dover Meg.ans Law
2015-0003~709 11/03/2 015 9:57 NPR-1 3XX W DIVISION ST, Dover Propert y Found
2015-000312702 11/03/2 015 9:26 PR - 1 lXX N QUEEN ST, Dover Loiterin g
2015-0003\2687 11/03/2 015 7:47 NPR -1 N GOVERNORS AVE/ FULTON ST, Dover Welfare Check
2015-0003~603 11/02/2 015 10:29 NPR -1 FULTON ST/ N NEW ST, Dover Public Asst
2015-0003~580 11/02/2 015 8:09 GOA-1 4X N KIRKWOOD ST, Dover Public Asst
2015-00 0312507 11/01/2 015 11:58 PR - 1 2XX N NEW ST, Dover EMO
2015-00 03l.2491 11/01/2 015 6:13 Unfoun ded - 1 3XX FULTON ST, Dover Disorde rly Conduc t
2015-0003~4 77 11/01/2 015 1:26 NPR-1 2XX N NEW ST, Dover Fight
2015-0003~372 10/31/2 015 0:18 NPR-1 2XX N KIRKWOOD ST, Dover Fight
2015-0003!2275 10/30/2 015 10:31 NPR -1 2XX N KIRKWOOD ST, Dover Propert y Found
2015-0003~214 10/29/2 015 18:30 GOA-1 2X N NEW ST, Dover Animal Compla int
2015-0003!2195 10/29/2 015 15:47 NPR-1 1XX N NEW ST, Dover Follow Up
2015-000312124 10/29/2 015 2:24 NPR -1 3X N NEW ST, Dover Trespass
2015-000312054 10/28/2 015 10:59 PR - 1 lXX N NEW ST, Dover Crimina l Mischie f
2015-000312035 10/28/2 015 1:13 GOA-1 3X N GOVERNORS AVE, Dover su·spicious Event
2015-000311842 10/26/2 015 14:18 GOA-1
N KIRKWOOD ST/ MARY ST, Dover Animal Compla int
2015-000311760 10/25/2 015 19:02 NPR-1 N KIRKWOOD ST/ CECIL ST, Dover Welfare Check
2015-000311688 10/25/2 015 0:37 GOA-1 2XX N NEW ST, Dover Loud Noise/P arty
2015-0003j1575 10/24/2 015 1:22 GOA-1 2XX N KIRKWOOD ST, Dover Loud Noise/P arty
2015-000311525 10/23/2 015 17:59 NPR -1 2XX W DIVISION ST, Dover Shots Fired
2015-00 03 1520 10/23/2 015 17:20 PR -1 3XX FULTON ST, Dover Follow Up
Paj 63
Kirkwood Area Oct 21 to Nov 5 2015
2015-0003,1452 10/23/201 5 7:20 NPR -1 2XX N QUEEN ST, Dover Parking Violation
201s-0003.14o7 10/22/201 5 19:40 NPR-1 2X N NEW ST, Dover Animal Complain t
2015-000 31405 10/22/201 5 19:00 GOA-1 2X N NEW ST, Dover Animal Complain t
2015-0003,1364 10/22/201 5 14:15 NPR -1 2XX N QUEEN ST, Dover Parking Violation
2015-0003,1356 10/22/201 5 13:40 Canceiled - 1 j2XX N KIRKWOOD ST, Dover Public Asst
Paj 64
4 'r 1-1 DISTRIC'1-, OONS'l1ITUENT'S
C01\1PLIAN'1-, I REQlJEST l1'0R RELIEJT
Dover Councilman Roy Sudler Jr has called for a special vote on the future of the Elks Lodge 011 Kirkwood Streei.
Dover neighbors say Kirkwood Elks Lodge must go
Carmen Hardcastle of Dover casts her vote 011 the fate of tl1e Elks Lodge 011 Kirkwood Street Tuesday evening insid e
the Solid Rock Conirnuniiy Outreach Cente1· in Dover. (Delaware State t\Jews pho1os/Dave Chambers)
DOVER - It's iim e for a cl1a11ge .
Eighteen neighbors of the Elks Lodge at 217 N _Kirkwood SL voted Tuesday evernng for removin g the esia!Jlishrnent:
seven voted against any action in an infom1al referendum held at Solid Rock Baptist Chmch Community Cenlei-.
E ligible voiers were resident s who lived 011 l(irkwood , Cecil , West , Fu lto11 and Queen s'u-eets .
3
Paj 65
4'rrr DISTRICT CONSTITlJENT'S
COJVIPLIANT I REQUEST FOR RELIE:F'
Councilman Roy Sudler J1·, (4th Dist) orchestrated the residential vote in a response to residents' concerns about
the pe1·ceptio11 of violence around the Elks Lodge property.
Mr. Sudler said he plans to take action on removing the establishment from the f<i1·kwood community.
He said he was pleased with the voters' turnout.
Pilar Figeroa of Dover, right. assists resident Dave McClain as he votes Tuc~sday evening inside Solid Rock
Community Outreach Center on the fate of the Elks L.odge on f\i1·1wvood Strnet.
"Especially fm it being a Tuesclay, and I feel as though everyone that was truly inte1·ested in this prncess came out
21iKI clic! their part." he saic!.
t31·oihers William and Barry Crnwford, who have lived in the community rm more than 40 yems. sha1·e 1v11- Sucl ler's
sentirnenL
"My brother lives i·ighi across the street from (the Elks Loclge)," Wi lli am Crnwfo1·c1 said. "I/Ve hea1· gunshots ancl
everyihin[J \'Oli can think ot I/Ve want it go. !i's been 111 1.he neighborhooc' for ioo long.
"We're talking about a neighborhoocl It should be out away rrorn the people. It's in a neighboi-!1ood where elderly
people live. We constc:ntiy hear gunshots and that's noi good."
In an interview IVionclay. Willie /.l.le~(a11cier. who holds the tit le oi e>(a iteci rnie1· or the Elks i_octge . iJelieves the
establishment is being ii-2atecl unfoirly.
"I think he's (Roy Sudler Jr.) putiing the earl before the horse." Mr A.leJ(ancier said. "I don 't ihink we're getting a fair
chance.
"l\Jothing has happenecl inside of the estab lishment, but stuff does happen mice we 1·e closed." he said
The estalJlishment is open from 5 p.rn. io ! 2 30 a.m Oil the weel;encis \Nith varying hoLll"S on weekdays.
8a1Ty C1·awfmd said people loiter outside tile parking !ol behi;1ci the huilciing 011ce the Etl;s closes.
··They JUSi hang out there or just on the streets ill front of the bu ilding. " he addecL "People 'ffespass and cio th2 same
next to i-n~' house too
"\/\fe find trash eve1ywhere . It's a lost generation thats clown there. Theyce listening to 1he wrong voice. ''
4
Paj 66
4'rII DISTRICT CONSTITlJENT'S
COl\!IPLIANT I REQUEST FOR RELIEF
Councilman David Anderson (4th Dist.) believes the Elks need to have betier control of what's happening around
their property.
"We had a community meeting in July where the Elks said they were going to hire police officers or some type of
security for their establishment when they close," Mr. Anderson said.
"That hasn't happened yet. The people are really concerned and that seems to be evident with the votes."
"I don't think the problem is the Elks, but they have to get control of what's happening around their property once they
close," Mr /~nderson added.
"We'll have to probabiy get a petition and then we will look at all of the safety issues and concerns regarding the
dwelling being safe or unsafe in the Kirkwood community," lv1r Sudle1· said.
"We have to see what the ordinances say about that moving forwacd."
He said he has been in talks with i\JCALL and Habitat for Humanity to potentially buy out the prope1iy and turn the
building into a home."
:·~C/\LL is a no11profrt organization based in Dover that specializes in affor·dable housing development. education ancl
lending.
l\/11· Sudler said he anticipates the Elks to be resistant about a potential change moving fotvvard, but hopes to resolve
tile issue the best vvay he can.
"i '°'xpect tilem to feel some type of way,'· M1·. Sudler saici. "Bui the people have spoken ancl majority rules. I'm goin[J
i:o iry and 1·each out to them. This is a top priority for the f(irkwood Community."
··This has been an ongoing problem. It's noi something that ! t1·ieci to iake up as a newly elected official, !Jut something
tiiai rny constituents ivwe decided to put on my plate as a to p priority."
eeach start writer Arshon /-Iowa rel at a/1owa1tl@news7ap com
Goal:
To eliminate the Non-Conforming Use Property Status for the Dover f<'.lks l ,odge #1125 and coerce
them to relocate out of a residential zoned area for the general welfare of the Kirkwood, Cecil,
Queen and \/Vest Street Community by Local and State Official Influence.
Request for Relief:
The Kirkwood Neighborhood Watch Executive Committee respectfuUy request to the City of
Dover's City Council and or State of Delaware's Department of Justice the following against the
Dov er Elks Lodge #1125 located@ 217 North Kirkwood Street Dover, Delaware
1). City of Dov er's Council to Revoke the Non-Conforming Use Status for Dover Elks Lodge; and
2). Property be permanently abated from the Kirkwood Residential Community within a reasonable
time-frame to not exceed no more than two to three vears.
5
I
__I
Paj 67
4'l'I-I DisrrRICT CONSTITlJENT'S
COl\·i PLIANrr I REQlJEST FOR RELIEF
Exhibit A.
Steven Roscoe
Age: 31
Briar Pa~, Camden, DE
Dover Police Investigate a Shooting at Elks Lodge on
Kirkwood Street
Fugitive Arrested by Dover Police K9 12-19-14
lncidcnl # : .so-14-3L1369 Date: Thursdav, Dece m ber 18th, 2014 at lJ :,5 5 PM
6
Paj 68
4TH DISTRICT CONSTITUENT'S
COl\!IPLIANT I REQUEST FOR RELIEF
Narrative:
The Dover Police Department arrested a fugitive from New Castle County, late Thursday
night. Officers learned that 31-year-old Steven Roscoe, who was \'\'anted on a Rule 9
warrant issued by New Castle County Superior Court, was at the Elks Lodge on North
Kirkwood Street. At that time several officers, including K9 "Spike" responded to the
area, knowing that Roscoe had a history of fleeing from police. Officers approached the
Elks Club staff and asked them to have Roscoe step out, howe\'er Roscoe fled out the
rear door of the building and ran from officers who gave chase. K9 Spike gave chase
after Roscoe jumped a privacy fence and ignored commands to stop by police. Kg Spike
was able to apprehend Roscoe and bring him to the ground, allm'lri.ng officers to take
Roscoe into custody without further incident. A search of Roscoe after bis arrest, led to
the discovery of 1.9 grams of marijuana in his pants pocket. Roscoe was charged with
Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting Arrest, and Local
Fugitive (Rule 9 \'\'arrant). 1-Ie was committed to .James T. Vaughn in lieu of $102,500
Secured Bond.
7
I
_ __ _ _ _ _.J
Paj 69
4~l'1-1 DISTRICT CONSTITUENT'S
COJ\1PLIANT I REQUEST FOR RELIEF
Exhibit B.
Dover Police Department Com.plaint #: 50-15- 1~J ~ oti
Date/Time: 06 / 01/ 2015 bet v\'een the hours of 12:25 am to 12:40 a m
Location of Incident: Elks Lodge, 217 N. Kirkwood Street, Dover, De
Victhn: .Male Victiin Age: 41
N·arrative:
On Mo nday, .Tune 1, 2.0 15, the DoYer Police responded to Kent Genera l Hospit al for a
male victim that was shot in the leg. Through investigation it \Vas determin ed that while
the victim was standing outside of the Elks Lodge located at 21 7 N. KirkvVood Street, an
unknovm make and model sedan drove southbound on Kirkvvooc! St reet at 'Nhich ti me
an u nknmvn person from inside of the vehicle fired approxim at ely .3 rounds in th e
d irect io n of the victim and other people that were outside of the Elks Lodge at the time.
T he \'ict irn •.vas st ruck in the leg by one of t he bullets fi red and ·was cl riH: n to Kent
General Hosoital
:... .bv
.. o ne of his fami ..,
lv members .
The inYestigation is still ongoi ng and anyon e \·Vith information is asked to contact t he
Do, ·er Police Department at (302)736-711 1. Callers may remain a nonymous . Tips can
8 lso be submitted to law enforcement through tip lines maintained by Dela\•va re Crin1 e
Sto ppers at 1-8 0 0-TIP-3333 or on-line 8t !.Y\\}\.'. Ji.])_~11bmit . c9_111 .
Cri1ne / N ature:
Possession of a Deadlv './'lea1)o n Dnrin 2: the Comm.ission of a Felonv
.. (_J ~
Su spect Description/ Inforni.ation ~
UnknO\vn
I
8
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ J
Paj 70
4 'l'll DISTRi c r_r CONS':eITUENT'S
C 0~1 PLIANT I REQUEST FOR RELIEF
Exhibit C.
'"James Ewell
Age : 17
lnd dcnt ff: !lO 1 1~.1 7 1 D ate/Time : Sunday, .July 6th ;1 l 12:3 2/' rn
Locati o n: Elks l,o(lgc, :n7 N orth Kirkwood ~)1.rce l" , Don~r, DeLn ·arc
Na rrative:
The Duvr::·r P(Jlicc Dcp;irtnienL has a iTt~s L ccl a 17-vcur-okl in th e shooting of two pcopk a l <1 Doyr_:r
!<: \ks Lod gcjm:L ;iftcr mid nigh t on Slmchy, .Jul. · 6th. Th e inci dent occurred 1..\·he11 .James E:i·\·c~n
( 17) e ntered t he cslahlishrn c ntjust 3 minules after midnight on Sundav, ,July 6th , \ ·ithout
;;ccuri ty/lodgc s t<1ff noticing . Shortl y after he e nter ed t he lodge, Ewell fired at kast Lh r cc s hots ,
lcaYing i.l'»U men injurr::cl. A 44-ycar-c ld male Yi ct im was struck li·\·icc in th e upper leg and a 25-
_vear-olcl rn al e "< 1·as shnt in th e lr"·\·cr leg. Both \·ictim s 1Ye r c trc,1ted i.lt B<1yh i:.:<1l th Ke nt Gcncrnl
H ospiU! for non-life threatening inj uries. \Vit nesses in the lodge «l th e ~ i m c of the shoo Ling
abl :<' to i den[ i (~ - t h e suspect , eYc~n seeing a 9 rnm handgun i;1 his hand as he fl ed t he lodge afte r
the :;h oo ting. FurLh er in vesti ga tion by the Criminal Inve Ligations Unit re\-e<.lled .failles Ewell as
a susp ec t. Ph otos uf Ewell \vc r c obt ai n ed and match ed the suspect shmYn in th e Elks Lo dge
9
Paj 71
4'1,H DISTRIC T CONSTIT UENT'S
COlVIPLI ANT I REQUES T FOR RELIE}i-,
Stevenson House Detention Center. Ewell was being held there on unrelated charges after the
shooting occurred. Bond information is not available at the time of this release.
Charges:
• Assault 1st Degree (2x)
Possession of Firearm During Commission of a Felony
• Possession of Firearm by Person Prohibited
• Burglary 2nd Degree
• Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (firearm)
10
Paj 72
I
' '
OFFICIAL COMPLAINT OF CRIMINAL ACTIVITY ON KIRKWOOD ST.
Kirkvv-ood N eighborhood W atch Officials Novern.ber 125 2015
~~huck Jackson 1
-Presidentl & Charles C. White [V ice - Prcsident j
126 N. Kirkwood St. & 206 N. Kirkwood
Dover, D E 19904
Safety and Transportation Advis oty Committee, Mayor and Dover City Council M embers
15 Loockennan St.
D over, DE 19903
RE: The Re ucst to Review and or Eliminate the Nom;onfonnin Use Status for tbl. Dover
J:<.:lks Lodge # 1125 located 011 2"17 J(jrkwood St. , io order to Jrotcc t the General Wclfar •
of the Kirkwood Community
To Chairman of the Safety Advisory and Transportation Committe e~ Mayor and City
Council Members:
I, Chuck Jacks on, and Charles C. White, residents an d executive conununity leaders o f the
K irkwo od N eighb orhood Watch Progrnm are very concerned ab out the enorrnous amo unt of
criminal activitv th at p laques our comnmnity and interferes with our rights to enjoy and occup y our
real property free from loud boi sterous an d umeasonc:b!e nois e; disorderly conduct, aggressive
panb andling, accos ting, prostitu tion and sho ts fired in our con1munity.
Paj 73
OFFICIAL COMPLAINT OF CRIMINAL ACTIVITY ON KIRKWOOD ST.
We the people of the Kirkwood Community are seeking your help in ensuring that our property,
love ones and community is safe for us to reside at. Recently, there has been an increase in the
amow1t of criminal activity in our community, which creates a feeling of fear and emotional distress
to the point that we are held hostage in our own community.
Whenever the Elks Lodge has an event and they are closing at the end of the night, most of us
who live right across from the Lodge have to go to the back of our house as a safety precaution due
to the gun-shots fired after a street brawl or fight.
On July 16, 2015,@ a 4'h District Emergency Community Meeting, in good faith, we reached
out to our neighbor, the Dover Elles, hoping that our concerns would not be ignored and a plan of
action would be developed where all parties would be satisfied.
At first the Emcs Lodge said "that they \vould hire Security or even an Off-duty Dover Police Officer
to protect our community and property", but they have failed to do so; and as of today have yet to
develop a plan of action to help curb the violence we experience in our neighborhood.
Tbe Elles Lodge has not been a friendly neighbor and has failed to show aGood Faith" in
addressing their neighbor's concerns, therefore; they have left us witb no other choice but to take
action on our own and demand that the Dover Elks Lodge# 1125 of 217 N. Kirkvv-ood Dover,
Delaware Relocate for the Safety of the Kirkwood Community.
Signed By: - -- - - - -- -- - - - - - - - - - -- - - -- -- - - - - -- - -
Chuck Jackson !1)rcsident of Kirkwood Neighborhood Watch!
Signed By: - - -- -- - -- -- - - -- - - -- - -- - -- - -- - - - - -
Charles C. White [Vic-President of Kirkwood J:',1eighborhood Watch]
CC: Scan Lynn - 31" District H ouse of Representatives
Brian Bushweller - 1Th Dis trict Senator
I!
L_ ________ _ _ _ __
Paj 74
ACTION FORM
PROCEEDING: Legislative and Finance Committee AGENDA ITEM NO.:
DEPARTMENT OF ORIGIN: Police DATE SUBMITTED: 6/9/16
PREPARED BY: Captain Timothy Stump / Administrative Division Commander
FY16 Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Program –
SUBJECT:
Joint Grant with Smyrna Police Department & Kent County
REFERENCE: Annual Recurring Grant Funding
RELATED PROJECT: N/A
APPROVALS: City Manager, Controller/Treasurer
EXHIBITS: None
EXPENDITURE REQUIRED: $59,961.00 PROJECT BUDGET: $107,961
USDOJ Grant (Fund 712) and Police
FUNDING SOURCE (Dept./Page in CIP & Budget): Budget (Fund 110) Computer
Equipment Account (20-38)
TIMETABLE: The grant should be awarded in August or September. Once received and
accepted, the items will be ordered.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve the grant project as requested.
BACKGROUND
The Dover Police Department recently received its annual allocation from the Office of Justice Programs
(OJP) for the 2016 Justice Assistance Grant (JAG). Similar to previous years, Dover Police Department was
identified as a disparate funding agency along with Smyrna Police Department and Kent County. This disparate
condition requires the submission of a joint grant application for the three agencies.
Although no funds were designated for Kent County in the allocation document, a Memorandum of
Understanding will be completed and signed by all three agencies and will state that Kent County will waive any
claim to funding on the grant. The Dover Police Department will serve as the fiscal and administrative agent for
the grant. The following table shows the breakout for the grant funds:
Department Amount
Dover Police Department – 10 COBAN in-car camera/computer systems $49,236.00
Smyrna Police Department – 14 Taser body cameras and associated licensing, 10,725.00
equipment and storage
Grand Total $59,961.00
ACTION REQUESTED
The Legislative and Finance Committee and Council approve the receipt of this grant and the purchases
identified.
Paj 75
Department Grant Application Analysis Form
For Use in Evaluating Grant Opportunities
General Information
Department: Police Staff Contact: Capt Stump
Grant/Project Title: FY16 Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG)
Brief Grant/Project Description: Recurring formula based Federal grant program which provides funding for
various Law Enforcement programs. This grant is a joint grant with Smyrna Police Department and Kent County, but
no funds will be allocated to Kent County, since they have no Law Enforcement element in their structure. As in the
past, The Dover Police Department will serve as the administrative agency and complete all the reports and
documentation required.
Application Information
Due Date: 6/30/16 New Related Grants:
Recurring Previous years’ grants
Anticipated Award Date: 8/1/16 Anticipated Notification Date: 8/1/16
Start Date: 8/1/16 End Date: 12/31/17
Award Amount: $51,549.00 Cash Reimbursement
Approx. reimbursement turn-a-around time 1-2 weeks
Council Approval Needed: Yes No Which apply? Match amount
(Council approval is needed for grant projects > $25,000, when match amounts Project shortage
equal or exceed $25,000, or when expressly required by the granting authority.)
Other grant requirement
Grant/Project Costs
Match
Budget Category Award Amt Match Amt Source
Contractual 0.00 0.00
Equipment/Supplies $59,961.00 $0.00 Not Applicable
Indirect Cost (ie, vehicle repairs, mileage, IT,
0.00 0.00
telephone)
Personnel 0.00 0.00
Additional Personnel/Over-time (ie, support costs,
0.00 0.00
administrative salaries)
Travel/Training 0.00 0.00
Capital Voicemail System 0.00 0.00
Other (ie, informant/buy money) 0.00 0.00
Total $59,961.00 $ 0.00
GRANT TOTAL $59,961.00 Award + Match
Paj 76
Department Grant Application Analysis Form
For Use in Evaluating Grant Opportunities
Other Information
1. Are any of this project’s costs included in the City budget?
Yes, currently the Dover Police Department has $60,000 programmed in its computer budget
for the replacement of mobile computers in the vehicles. These funds will be combined with
the grant funds to purchase ten systems.
2. Are there any long-term costs or commitments?
Maintenance costs for the systems will be picked up by the department budget after the end
of the five year warranty period.
3. How will this program/project be funded after the grant expires?
Not Applicable.
4. What is the maximum amount of funds available from this funding source?
The amounts shown on the preceding table are the maximum amounts available.
5. If the Department receives only a portion of the amount requested, how will the
project be funded?
The funds are explicitly authorized for Dover PD’s and Smyrna PD’s use, so the full amount
will be available.
6. Are there other departments in the City eligible for this funding?
No.
7. Are other departments in the City willing to collaborate on this project?
Not Applicable.
8. Will this project duplicate or compete with other services or programs provided by
the City or other local agency?
No.
Paj 77
Presented by:
Donna Mitchell, CPA
City Controller/Treasurer
June 27, 2016
Paj 78
Three primary purposes
Matters to be communicated
Auditor’s responsibility
Planned scope and timing of audit
Significant findings from the audit
2
Paj 79
To clearly communicate an overview of the
audit scope, the timing of the audit, and the
auditor’s responsibilities.
To provide timely observations arising from
the audit that are relevant to oversight of the
financial reporting process.
To obtain relevant audit-related information
from those charged with governance.
3
Paj 80
The auditor’s responsibilities under
generally accepted auditing standards.
This will be detailed in the auditor’s
engagement letter, a copy of which will be
provided to each audit committee member.
4
Paj 81
An overview of the planned scope and timing
of the audit that is not so detailed as to
compromise audit effectiveness.
This will be summarized in a memo to the
committee and discussed with the committee
before commencement of the audit.
5
Paj 82
The auditor’s views about findings or issues
that the auditor considers to be significant and
relevant to those charged with governance
regarding their oversight of the financial
reporting process.
These will be communicated near or at the end
of the audit.
6
Paj 83
City of Dover
2016 Audit Calendar
MAY JUNE JULY
S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 1 2
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10 11 12 13 Close AP & GL 15 16
Detail Audit Plan Auditors - preliminary auditwork including walk throughs and inventory testing - Inventory
22 23 24 25 26 28 19 25 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Submitted listing received morning of 6/13/16 from IT.
Fuel measure @
29 30 31 26 27 28 29 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
plant
31
AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER
S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Draft
Test of controls Draft CAFR
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 11 13 14 15 16 17 16 Schedules/State 18 19 20 22
started Complete *
ments to auditor
Test of Controls Draft CAFR to Draft CAFR to
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 18 19 20 21 22 24 23 25 26 27 29
Completed auditor City Clerk
28 29 30 31 25 26 27 28 29 30 30 31
*Draft CAFR completed by October 21 (includes Notes & Statistical Section)
NOVEMBER DECEMBER
S M T W T F S S M T W T F S Holidays - Green
1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 Meetings with Auditors if requested by LFA
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Key Dates in Yellow
Draft Cafr to
13 15 16 17 18 19 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
LF&A
Final Changes
20 21 22 24 25 26 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
made to CAFR
CAFR Sent to
27 28 29 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
GFOA
Final CAFR completed by November 23 (includes all Sections and TOC)
7