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PARKS, RECREATION, AND
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee meeting was held on
October 12, 2015, at 3:30 p.m. with Chairman Anderson presiding. Members present were
Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Lewis (arrived at 3:47 p.m.), and Mr. Caldwell. Mrs. Horsey was absent.
Councilman Hutchison was also present (departed at 4:22 p.m.).
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Hosfelt moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Caldwell and unanimously
carried.
Discussion - Police Athletic League (PAL)
Police Chief Paul Bernat expressed his belief that the City needed to bring back the Police Athletic
League (PAL) program. He advised members that juvenile arrests in the City had decreased overall;
however, the seriousness of arrests had increased. Chief Bernat stated that drug offenses had
increased from 31 last year to 40 this year, there were no burglaries last year and 12 this year, and
weapons violations had increased by one (1) compared to last year.
Chief Bernat stated that the Dover Police Department partnered with the National Association for
the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) on October 7, 2015 for a very successful community
outreach event and felt that PAL events would be similar in nature to this type of event. He
indicated that he had lunch with Mr. Robert Jameson, Executive Director, Police Athletic League
of Delaware, Inc., noting that Mr. Jamison oversees the PAL at Hockessin and Wilmington.
Chief Bernat indicated that he received some tips from Mr. Jameson, who stated that one (1) of the
first things would be to organize an executive board. Chief Bernat advised members that he would
be involved, along with other community leaders, including attorneys and possibly accountants, since
it would be necessary to obtain a 501(c)(3) status. He felt it important to start this program, noting
that a facility would also be needed. Chief Bernat stated that he had discussed this with Mr. Scott
Koenig, City Manager, and Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community
Development, but indicated that he was not comfortable discussing the particulars at this time since
Mrs. Townshend was not present. Chief Bernat stated that different locations were discussed,
including Dover Park. He explained that staff from Aid in Dover, including Mrs. Beverly Williams,
Executive Director, and Mr. Mark Harmon, Program Director, were also present during the
discussion. Chief Bernat indicated that all present had agreed that there was a need for a facility to
address children, particularly on the east side of Route 13, and he felt that PAL would help to do this.
Chief Bernat informed members that there were manpower issues, noting that the Dover Police
Department was authorized for 101 police officers; however, seven (7) officers entered the Delaware
State Police Academy on September 15, 2015 and would complete training in March, and two (2)
additional officers would be going into the Academy on March 16, 2016. He explained that six (6)
officers who were hired in March 2015 would be coming out of Field Training Officer (FTO)
training on October 18, 2015, two (2) officers were on administrative leave, and four (4) were on
light duty. Chief Bernat stated that out of 101 authorized officers, the strength of the force was
currently 80; however, he felt it was not too early to start planting the seeds of PAL, perhaps starting
with the executive board and then moving on to facilities. He expressed his feeling that the program
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PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY
ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING OF OCTOBER 12, 2015 PAGE 2
was badly needed and the sooner it was implemented the better. Reiterating that there were
manpower issues, Chief Bernat advised members that the six (6) additional officers that would be
available in a couple of weeks would help tremendously.
Mr. Hosfelt asked how officers would be involved and if this would be a job assignment for one (1)
officer. Responding, Chief Bernat indicated that New Castle County and Wilmington each have
one (1) or two (2) officers in the program. He explained that his vision was that the Department
would dedicate one (1) police officer, and maybe PAL would pay for any others that would be
needed. Chief Bernat indicated that, in talking to Mr. Jameson, funding comes from different places
and the City could help. Chief Bernat stated that there is also federal grant money available through
the Criminal Justice Council; however, PAL relies largely on businesses within the community and
it was planned to ask several large community businesses for help. He noted that volunteers are very
important in PAL, including police officers who coach or are involved by helping kids with
homework after school and other things of that nature.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt in regard to whether Dover would fall under the umbrella of Mr. Jameson
as the Executive Director, Chief Bernat expressed his belief that Mr. Jameson handled only New
Castle County and that Dover would have its own executive board that the Chief would report to or
be involved with.
In response to Mr. Hutchison regarding the days and hours of operation, Chief Bernat stated that he
would like PAL to operate five (5) days per week, most likely during the hours after school in the
afternoon or evening, from approximately 3:30 p.m. to 8:00 or 9:00 p.m.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison regarding the cost of the program, Chief Bernat stated that he was
unsure; however, he was aware of the budget for Hockessin, which is a huge facility. He indicated
that a large part of the program would be financed through donations and grants.
In response to Mr. Hutchison, Chief Bernat stated that participants would be children aged five (5)
through 18, noting that his reading had indicated that it is somewhat too late for older kids and
younger ones should be targeted. He expressed the desire to target and build relationships with
those aged five (5) through 12 or 14 who are not quite set in their ways.
Mr. Koenig stated that, from his standpoint, this was a very preliminary discussion, noting that this
program was not ear-marked in the budget. He expressed reservations, stating that creating a
501(c)(3) with an executive board and the potential commitment of a facility was a major
undertaking. Mr. Koenig stated that he would love to talk about doing this as a partnership with
other interested parties and requested the Committee to advise on whether this was an avenue that
they would like to go down. He stated that, while this would be a PAL program, he felt that
recreation staff and others would carry a lot of the weight if it went forward. Mr. Koenig requested
that a detailed financial analysis be done before committing to have things in place by a certain date.
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Mr. Anderson agreed that these were preliminary discussions; however, he felt there was a need to
start so that members would not still be talking about this five (5) years from now. He stated that
he would like to see it rolling in the next few years.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt regarding how to start moving forward, Mr. Koenig stated that if the
Committee and Council wanted to move forward, the City Manager, Police Chief, and Director of
Planning and Community Development should be given a directive to put together a comprehensive
proposal that would indicate the steps to be taken to create a PAL. He indicated that he was unsure
what PAL would encompass, noting that it may include activities in addition to basketball.
Mr. Koenig stated that there were hundreds of questions, including who would coordinate volunteers
and what the role of the executive board would have in relation to the City, noting that the best
interest of the City must be kept in mind.
Mrs. Beverly Williams, 20 Gleneagles Court, former City Council member and current Executive
Director, Aid in Dover, advised members that she began discussions about this matter with Mr. Chris
Kervick, Executive Director, Delaware Criminal Justice Council, while she was serving on City
Council and he explained that there is an abundance of federal grants available for PAL programs,
as long as the community comes together and finds a place for the program. Mrs. Williams advised
members that this would not be a City project and an executive board and private non-profit structure
would be formed as the governing body for the PAL program. She indicated that PAL programs are
associated with cities through memorandums of understanding and probably contractual agreements
in some cases. Mrs. Williams stated that she understood Mr. Koenig’s reluctance, especially since
he must balance so many demands on the budget; however, she felt that this could be worked on
independently from the City’s budget and the only part that the City might play would be to help
access land and a building or something of that nature.
Youth Advisory Committee Recommendations
Ms. Rebecca Anderson, Vice Chair, Youth Advisory Committee (YAC), 217 Cecil Street, advised
members that the YAC had several items to recommend for evaluation, one (1) of which was a
mixed martial arts program. She explained that Mr. Hopeton Stewart advised the YAC that he was
willing to provide instruction at a reduced cost in exchange for ensuring that some spaces in the
program would be provided for participants from low-income households. Mr. Stewart had indicated
that mats were the only thing needed to start the program; therefore the cost would be low.
Ms. Anderson stated that the Committee would also like digital recording devices for minutes.
Ms. Anderson advised members that the YAC was organizing a New Year’s Eve event and would
like security, public announcement stages, and facilities. She indicated that the Downtown Dover
Partnership (DDP) could participate, as well as other organizations that help with downtown Dover
events. She stated that the community could be brought together by a sense of unity through starting
the year together at a family-friendly event. Ms. Anderson noted that the YAC had involved a
number of businesses, as well as others who were willing to participate. In total, over 200 people
had said they would be willing to help out.
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In response to Mr. Hosfelt’s request for more information regarding plans for the New Year’s Eve
event, Ms. Anderson stated that there was a thorough event checklist. Some tasks had been assigned
to members of the YAC and additional volunteers were being sought.
Responding to Mr. Anderson regarding the type of event envisioned, Ms. Anderson stated that it
would be similar to First Night Dover. Bands would come from different schools and establishments
on Loockerman Street would be open for activities such as poetry, movies in the library, etc. The
YAC was looking at a variety of other groups, had contacted radio stations to provide disc jockeys
and to advertise the event, and there were a number of local musicians who wanted to perform.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Ms. Anderson confirmed that the YAC had raised $7,000 for fireworks
and an additional $3,000 was needed, for a total of $10,000.
Responding to Mr. Caldwell, Ms. Anderson stated that other members of the Committee had
contacted local high school bands regarding their participation and she planned to get in contact with
them very soon.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Anderson stated that the YAC consisted of seven (7) members, plus
an adult advisor and volunteers from the community.
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, stated that Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and
Community Development, could not be present; therefore, she was unable to ask questions for the
record. Mr. Koenig questioned what the Committee saw as the role of staff in the event. He noted
that when First Night Dover was held, it was a full-time planning exercise for a number of people
and involved volunteer coordination. The Parks and Recreation Department indicated that
approximately 16 City staff had worked on that event with approximately 50 to 80 volunteers.
Mr. Koenig stated that First Night Dover was not nearly as big an event during its first year as it later
became. He expressed the desire to understand the role of the City to either help deliver the event
or not to be involved. Mr. Koenig explained that a venue like this would involve security and
insurance issues and, noting that the event was 8½ to 10 weeks out, he stated the need to get these
things squared away quickly.
Mr. Anderson stated that one (1) of the YAC’s requests specifically had to do with insurance and
security. The actual organization and coordination of the event, except for things like setting up and
tearing down stages, would be done through the YAC. Mr. Anderson advised members that funding
would be private. Except for sanctioning this as a City event, the needs would be for insurance, staff
for things like staging, and making library meeting rooms available.
In response to Mr. Koenig, Mr. Anderson confirmed that the recommendation was for this to be a
City-sponsored event with the full faith and credit of the City backing it. Mr. Anderson stated that
the event would be planned and staffed by volunteers.
Mr. Koenig indicated that if the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee
recommends that the City to sponsor this event, there would be a need to ensure that the City would
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be involved early and often with planning since these are young kids and if the kids do not show up
or if they need assistance, they would need it very quickly.
Responding to Mr. Lewis regarding the cost of the First Night Dover event before being discontinued
by the City a year or two (2) ago, Mr. Koenig stated that he was unsure since a specific 501(c)(3)
corporation separate from the City was set up for this. He confirmed that police officers and other
tools from the City were provided and estimated that approximately $5,000 to $10,000 of staff
support went into it because the event was held at night, which involved overtime work. Mr. Koenig
did not recall how much involvement the Police Department had, noting that it would depend on the
level of activity, since 300 people would require fewer officers assisting than 3,000. Mr. Koenig
stated that he would have to review the record to see how much was spent on that previously. He
noted that the event grew for about a five (5) to seven (7) year period and then started to diminish.
He estimated that the cost for man hours easily exceeded $10,000.
Mr. Lewis asked if there was funding available in the budget for the City to go forward with the
event. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that funding was not specifically identified in the budget. He
explained that there were line items for events such as the African American Festival, the Dover
Days Festival, and the 4th of July Celebration; however, there was no expense indicated in the budget
to support this event.
Ms. Teresa Morris, 1360 Old White Oak Road, adult advisor for the YAC, stated that she wished
to alleviate some worries. She explained that the youth group had taken it upon themselves to raise
funds. The group was currently working on a fundraiser, had spoken with Jake’s Hamburgers and
a lot of local businesses, and were not asking the City for money. Ms. Morris stated that the cost of
the New Year’s event in the past was $100,000, and these funds were sent to an organization out of
Boston and did not benefit the Dover community. She indicated that the goal was to lift up the
community, bring everyone back together, and put on the New Year’s that the City used to have that
everyone looked forward to, noting that this was one (1) of the things that had made the City great.
Ms. Morris expressed her belief that this was needed now more than ever and her hope that members
would support it. She indicated that help was needed with police coverage and liability insurance.
Ms. Morris stated that the YAC was talking with RPJ Waste Services, Inc. about port-a-potties. She
advised members that they had looked at everything involved in putting on an event this large. They
knew that it could have from 100 people to 10,000 people, and this was unknown because the event
had not been done in a long time. Ms. Morris expressed her hope that Council could help the YAC
with the few things that they had on their agenda. She felt that there would not be a lot since the
community was willing to contribute and businesses were willing to open their doors. Ms. Morris
explained that fireworks would be done by the same company who did the Dover 4th of July
Celebration, noting that the company had donated $7,000 and indicated that they may be able to help
more. She reiterated that the funding needed from the City was very minimal. She expressed the
desire to have a good police presence, but stated that they had also talked about the possibility of the
police cadets and different organizations coming to help, noting that they were speaking with Dover
Downs in this regard. Ms. Morris stated the goal not to hit the City pocket any more than need be,
but help was needed with the police and liability insurance. She stated her belief that members
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would be surprised at the work, time, and energy the youth had put into this, indicating that this had
not been taken on lightly and they understood the magnitude of the event.
Mr. Lewis expressed his belief that this was a good initiative; however, he would leave it up to the
City Manager to see if he could come up with funding, noting that the well was dry.
Ms. Morris expressed confidence that the community would pitch in, like they did in 2011 when the
last New Year’s Eve event was held in the City, noting that she and a group of citizens had put on
that event rather than the City. She indicated that she did not put out a penny at that time since the
community pulled together. Someone paid for port-a-potties and another gentleman paid for the
police, which cost $32.00 per hour at that time. Ms. Morris stated that this cost was based on the
number of people they thought would attend, which was projected at 10,000 and ended up being 200,
although she was happy with 200 because they had 10 days to pull together the event. She felt that
members would be surprised with how many people in the community wanted to do this, noting that
they had created a group on Facebook asking for help and 700 people had responded on one (1) of
the pages and 111 on another. She stated her confidence that this could be pulled together if the City
would sponsor and back the event and agree that the kids could do this. Ms. Morris stated that they
were not asking for a lot compared to what the City used to pay for New Year’s, indicating that she
had a letter from the individual who was previously making $100,000 off the City which did not go
to the citizens.
Mr. Anderson noted that the previous provider made a lot of money by selling buttons and paid for
a lot of entertainment, as opposed to getting local people together.
Ms. Morris advised members that there were very talented, positive, and uplifting people in the City
that do not get any recognition and whose music includes genres such as country, hip-hop, blues,
jazz, etc. and whose talents include face painting, fire spinning, etc., noting that these performers
were on the Facebook page that includes 111 people. She reiterated that there is a great deal of
citizen support which had given her a little more hope in humanity and a belief that we have a good
City. Ms. Morris indicated that people had wanted to bring back the event since it was cancelled in
2011. She stated that in 2011 a gentleman had paid approximately $500 for $1M in insurance
coverage and he got back half of that after the event because no one was hurt. Ms. Morris
acknowledged that prices had probably changed since that time.
Mr. Anderson stated that the City already had liability insurance, so it would not be a different
expense.
In regard to security, Ms. Morris stated that they could reach out to security agencies in the
community; however, in principle, it would be better if City police were out there having fun with
the community and letting them know that they are regular people. She felt this would also deter
criminal activity, because a police officer holds a lot more weight than a security guard. Ms. Morris
advised members that the YAC had created an outline and members were handling different
positions, noting that one (1) of the young ladies was handling public relations and contacting radio
stations.
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In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Ms. Morris stated that the YAC had not yet reached out to any insurance
carriers, noting that appearing before the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement
Committee was the first step.
Mr. Anderson stated that, according to Resolution No. 2010-03, since the YAC is specifically
authorized to make contracts for family friendly events the insurance should go through the City,
unless there is a reason not to. He indicated that this would not be a big expense for a one (1) day
event.
Ms. Morris stated that the biggest matter was security. She stated that a small business that does
residential trash removal indicated that they would put out trash cans and empty them.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt regarding the action that was needed from the Committee, Mr. Anderson
stated that the request was to approve the YAC recommendation.
In response to Mr. Lewis as to whether they were looking for permission to hold the event or
financial assistance, Mr. Anderson stated that endorsement was needed.
Mr. Lewis stated that he could not commit on any cost at this juncture.
Mr. Anderson stated that the request was for the City to be behind the event, the City stage, and
access to facilities and pocket parks. He stated that an appropriation was not being asked for because
the money was being raised privately.
Mr. Lewis noted the need for police protection and insurance, stating that this would come at a cost
and questioned if there was funding for this. Responding, Mr. Anderson stated that this would be
up to the Mayor and Council, noting that there were a number of ways this could be done. He
indicated that as the event approaches, the YAC would have a better idea of how big the event would
be. Mr. Anderson stated that it could be run cheaply. He indicated that the cost would differ
depending on whether cadets were hired at approximately $12.00 per hour to walk through and run
patrols through, or off-duty police officers were hired at $65.00 per hour to be there for the whole
event.
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mr. Anderson stated that there was funding for this.
In response to Mr. Lewis as to whether funding was available, Mr. Koenig stated that the YAC
minutes reflected that a lot of work had been done regarding this event; however, he stated the need
for additional documentation, including the previously mentioned checklist, and a specific request.
He stated that he would need a specific request in order to commit staff to things, and the sooner he
can receive those specific requests, the easier it would be to incorporate them. In regard to
insurance, Mr. Koenig stated that he did not want to minimize the potential cost of insurance, noting
that he had received an education on insurance in the last four (4) years on a number of different
events. He advised members that to protect the City’s umbrella policy for events such as Old Dover
Days and its involvement with the Amish Bike Tour, the City had bought special riders so that the
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PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY
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full faith and credit of the City’s insurance would not potentially be negatively impacted by
something, such as an injury or some activity that happens at an events. He estimated the cost as
ranging from $1,500 to $4,000 or $5,000, depending on the rider. Mr. Koenig indicated that staff
had been very specific when talking to the City’s insurance company, explaining that the City did
not want to get the City’s broad umbrella policy tied up in what was a very minor event compared
to all the other activities in the City and have somebody go after those upper limits. He advised
members that insurance policies were being purchased to minimize risks; therefore, sometimes the
City pays a premium for those specific events and for this reason it is important to know what
activities are associated with the events. Mr. Koenig explained that if there are food vendors, a
petting zoo, etc., the City pays a higher premium; therefore, these things must be known when
talking to the insurance carrier about creating a rider for the policy to address this event. He
reiterated the need to get a better understanding of what was being asked so that he could obtain a
price.
Mr. Hosfelt stated that he was still not certain what the City and staff were being asked to do. It was
his recollection that at least 12-15 police officers had been committed to the event in the past, noting
that there would be street closures, patrols, etc. In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Police Chief Paul Bernat
recalled that this was the case when the First Night Dover event first began; however, he indicated
that the demand became less as the attendance decreased.
Mr. Anderson stated that current comparable events would be First Friday or the OktDoverFest.
Mr. Lewis requested that a list be provided to the City Manager of what the event would include so
that he could do the math, and Ms. Anderson stated that this could be done.
Ms. Morris expressed her belief that there was enough support from the community to cover any
expenses, if there was any financial shortfall.
Mr. Hosfelt asked that the YAC communicate with the City Manager as soon as possible, noting
there was a lot to be done in a short amount of time. He stated that a major event for the area which
had been planned for a year had just been cancelled due to an insurance problem, explaining that
these things do not happen overnight but take time and resources. Agreeing with Mr. Lewis,
Mr. Hosfelt expressed uncertainty that a lot of resources could be afforded at this point. He
commended Ms. Anderson for a great presentation, stating that he wanted to find a way to endorse
the event, but expressed concern about the timing, feeling that the event was behind the eight ball.
Mr. Anderson stated that the youth group had been working on this project since May.
Ms. Morris stated that the YAC wanted to make sure that a majority of the groundwork had been laid
prior to coming to the Committee, so that they could provide the details regarding musicians,
vendors, and fireworks instead of simply asking for a specific amount of money. She indicated that
she would work with the group to provide a very detailed outline of their vision and what had been
done so far.
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Mr. Caldwell suggested that the outline, and particularly the numbers, be provided to the City
Manager so that he could have a better idea of what was going on.
Mr. Anderson expressed his opinion that it was not understood how little commitment was needed
from the City since so much of the groundwork had been laid. He indicated that he would entertain
a motion to recommend that staff coordinate with the YAC on the details of this event and return
with a joint recommendation during the next meeting.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Anderson stated that the motion was not for preliminary inquiries,
which had all been done, but for staff to work out the details and final numbers with the youth and
bring back a final proposal to the Committee next month.
Mr. Hosfelt questioned whether Mr. Anderson was asking for a recommendation as to whether or
not the City would support this event. Mr. Hosfelt reiterated his concern that City staff was being
put behind the eight ball and was unsure if it would be fair to ask staff to advise on what would be
required and state that they are ready to move forward with this without knowing the costs to the
City. He stated that there would be costs and, since they were not budgeted, he did not know where
the money would come from. He reminded members that Mrs. Townshend was not present to speak
about the Parks and Recreation Department and expressed uncertainty about the motion.
Responding to Mr. Anderson regarding the motion he would like to make, Mr. Hosfelt stated that
would be willing to endorse a recommendation from the Committee to ask Mr. Koenig to work with
the YAC to see if in fact this is a project that is doable this year, or if it is something that must be
planned for next year.
Mr. Hosfelt moved to recommend that the City Manager evaluate the Youth Advisory Committee’s
proposal for a New Year’s Eve event, including numbers, to see if the proposal was doable this year
or if it was something that must be planned for next year.
Mr. Lewis stated that he would concur with motion; however, he was unsure how quickly
Mr. Koenig could provide the Committee with an estimate of how much it would cost the City,
noting that his main concern was that the event was not budgeted. He questioned whether the City
would be able to somehow find the money.
Mr. Anderson stated that numbers were essential either way. He noted that particular numbers were
needed and that it had always been the plan to raise the funds privately.
The motion to recommend that the City Manager evaluate the Youth Advisory Committee’s
proposal for a New Year’s Eve event, including numbers, to see if the proposal was doable this
year or if it was something that must be planned for next year was seconded by Mr. Lewis and
unanimously carried.
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Strategic Planning and Goal Setting
During the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee meeting of
September 14, 2015, members considered Strategic Planning and Goal Setting in relation to the
Restoring Central Dover Strategic Plan. Mr. Anderson suggested that members review the capital
budget and Recreation Needs Assessment, talk with constituents, and come back with their top five
(5) ideas and set priorities, in order for the Committee’s strategic planning and goal setting to be
completed in October.
Mr. Anderson stated that some items related to strategic planning and goal setting would be deferred
until next month, noting that Mayor Christiansen had a proposal regarding a park facility on the east
side of the City which would relate to the Police Athletic League (PAL) as well as privately funded
grants. Mr. Anderson indicated that Mayor Christiansen had requested this delay because final
preparations were being made on some of the grants. Mr. Anderson reminded members that money
was reserved in the budget in the Parkland Reserve Fund for such a facility, and the Mayor was
looking at whether there should be a re-prioritization of the splash pad into matching the grant, so
the City could have a new facility. He indicated that this would part of an ongoing discussion.
Members were provided the City of Dover FY 2016 Capital Investment Plan, FY 16 thru FY 20,
related to Parks and Recreation projects (Attachment #1). Mr. Anderson stated that part of the
reason for the strategic planning was to look at the current priorities in the Capital Investment Plan
and consider what members think the funding priorities should be in the future. He expressed his
opinion that there was agreement on some of the “low-hanging fruit,” such as enhancing some of the
existing exercise and bike trails at Schutte Park, Silver Lake, and Dover Park, particularly with some
of the healthy communities grant. He reminded members that inside restroom facilities for
Silver Lake Park and Dover Park were mentioned in the Recreation Needs Assessment.
Mr. Anderson questioned what the first priorities should be.
Mr. Caldwell thanked Mrs. Townshend and her staff for the work that they had put in, which
provided an understanding of what the young people in the community need. He stated that over the
past weekend he had the opportunity to talk to young people regarding what they would like to see
in the community, particularly in the Fourth District, and they indicated that they want open space
for football, basketball, soccer, etc., as well as bathroom facilities. Mr. Caldwell noted that splash
pads are more seasonal and would be used for three (3) or four (4) months before the weather
becomes chilly in September and October. He advised members that kids want to be outside and
were not looking for indoor facilities. He noted that inside facilities may be needed for the older,
senior group which has transportation, but young people in certain communities do not have
transportation. Mr. Caldwell suggested that schools could be opened up at certain times, or just have
the open space where children can play and do the things that they like to do. He felt that adults were
also looking for swings and a place to take kids aged six (6) and under to let them get fresh air.
Mr. Caldwell felt, in terms of outside activities, that the splash park was not a major item and could
be implemented somewhere in the future, maybe at Dover Park or the Pitts Center.
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Mr. Lewis stated that he conducted a survey in the Second District and spoke with the elderly and
the young in that area. He advised members that the survey indicated that a lot of the elderly wanted
a dog park, noting that 45% requested a dog park, 30% a community center, 15% a skate park, and
10% a boat dock at Silver Lake or one (1) of the City lakes with paddle boats. Mr. Lewis stated that
responses from younger constituents in his district were tied between a community center and a skate
park. He indicated that this input came from Schoolview, Mayfair, and the majority of the
communities.
Mr. Anderson noted that the dog park was not part of the City’s Recreation Needs Assessment, yet
it was an item mentioned by almost 20% of the respondents; therefore, there was definitely a demand
for this.
Mr. Hosfelt noted that Schutte Park borders the First District and that the district also contained the
former Kent Swim Club, which is now a YMCA property, as well as a golf club, so residents have
options. He stated that residents questioned whether the former Dover High School, which is a great
facility, would eventually be available for use, noting that the property has ball fields and one (1) of
the better tracks in the State. Mr. Hosfelt stated that he liked the concept of a dog park, which a lot
of other communities have.
Mr. Anderson stated that the dog park idea had potential, especially since new areas of Schutte Park
were being expanded and this could possibly be incorporated. He felt that the City should reach out
regarding the former Dover High School property before something happens to those facilities.
Mr. Anderson indicated that there had been related discussion with Mrs. Townshend and he felt that
this item should be put on a future agenda.
Mr. Lewis stated that when he was serving as a Capital School District Board member the stadium
and track at the former Dover High School were being utilized by Central Middle School, and
expressed his belief that this was still the case. He felt that they were the only ones currently
utilizing it and that it would be a good opportunity to engage in conversation with the District with
respect to utilizing it on the City level.
Mr. Lewis moved to recommend reaching out to the Capital School District to have a
conversation with respect to their intent for the old Dover High School field and track and a
dialogue regarding a partnership with the City, seconded by Mr. Caldwell and unanimously
carried.
Mr. Hosfelt moved to recommend deferring further discussion on strategic goal setting and planning
until after the Mayor’s presentation and that when Mrs. Townshend can be present for members to
hear from her as well, seconded by Mr. Caldwell.
Mr. Lewis concurred as far as hearing the presentation but, speaking for the constituents of the
Second District, he felt that the City should look at a proposed dog park for the future to see if there
was any way to integrate it.
Paj 12
PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY
ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING OF OCTOBER 12, 2015 PAGE 12
Mr. Anderson stated that the dog park was also mentioned in the Recreation Needs Assessment and
that was not an outlier, expressing his belief that it was a legitimate need as it was the second most
written-in item after restroom facilities and ranked higher than some of the items listed.
The motion to recommend deferring further discussion on strategic goal setting and planning
until after the Mayor’s presentation when Mrs. Townshend can be present for members to
hear from her as well was unanimously carried.
Mr. Lewis moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 4:41 p.m.
David L. Anderson
Chairman
DLA/TM/js/dd
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\Committee-Minutes\2015\10-12-2015 PR&CE.wpd
Attachments
Attachment #1 - City of Dover FY 2016 Capital Investment Plan - Parks and Recreation Projects
Paj 13
ATTACHMENT #1
PR&CE Committee Meeting of 10/12/2015
City of Dover, Delaware
FY 2016 Capital Investment Plan
FY 16 thru FY 20
FUNDING SOURCE SUMMARY
Source FY 16 FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 FY 20 Total
Community Transportation Fund 30,000 250,000 280,000
General Fund 1,555,500 1,359,200 1,412,200 1,711,700 1,566,700 7,605,300
Other 2,067,000 2,067,000 2,067,000 6,201,000
Parkland Reserve Fund 40,000 10,000 150,000 200,000
State Grant 80,000 43,000 280,000 403,000
GRAND TOTAL 1,555,500 3,576,200 3,532,200 4,208,700 1,816,700 14,689,300
Thursday, August 06, 2015
Paj 14
City of Dover, Delaware
FY 2016 Capital Investment Plan
FY 16 thru FY 20
PROJECTS BY DEPARTMENT
Department Project# Priority FY 16 FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 FY 20 Total
Fire/Robbins Hose
Annual Contribution to Robbins Hose FR1400 1 145,600 319,200 319,200 409,200 409,200 1,602,400
Fire/Robbins Hose Total 145,600 319,200 319,200 409,200 409,200 1,602,400
Parks and Recreation
Schutte Park Land Improvements PR1602 1 190,000 190,000
Park and Playground Improvement Program PR1701 1 66,000 66,000
Splash Pad PR1702 1 20,000 280,000 300,000
Skate Parks PR1703 3 10,000 300,000 310,000
Silver Lake Revitalization Project PR1803 3 50,000 250,000 300,000
Parks and Recreation Total 190,000 96,000 630,000 250,000 1,166,000
Police
Camera Monitoring Station PD1601 1 19,900 19,900
Police Total 19,900 19,900
Public Works - Streets
Street, Concrete and Alley Program ST1601 1 1,000,000 1,000,000 1,050,000 1,102,500 1,157,500 5,310,000
Old PW2 Site Improvements ST1602 1 330,000 2,067,000 2,067,000 2,067,000 6,531,000
Replacement of Valve at Silver Lake Dam ST1603 1 60,000 60,000
Public Works - Streets Total 1,390,000 3,067,000 3,117,000 3,169,500 1,157,500 11,901,000
GRAND TOTAL 1,555,500 3,576,200 3,532,200 4,208,700 1,816,700 14,689,300
Thursday, August 06, 2015
Paj 15
FY 2016 Capital Investment Plan FY 16 thru FY 20 Department Parks and Recreation
City of Dover, Delaware Contact Public Works Director
Type Improvement
Project # PR1602
Useful Life 50 years
Project Name Schutte Park Land Improvements Category General
New Project: No Account Number: TBD Priority 1
Time-Line: FY-16 Status Active
Total Project Cost: $190,000
Description
This project will include a boundary and topographical survey of Schutte Park and a plan to develop multipurpose fields on the lands on the west
side of the park and to complete the multipurpose pathway around the park’s perimeter. Once plans are complete, the improvements will be
constructed in FY 16.
Justification
Currently, the Schutte Park addition is unusable. There is constant demand for field space, and we have 14 acres of unusable space.
Expenditures FY 16 FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 FY 20 Total
&RQVWUXFWLRQ0DLQWHQDQFH 190,000 190,000
Total 190,000 190,000
Funding Sources FY 16 FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 FY 20 Total
&RPPXQLW\7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ 30,000 30,000
)XQG
*HQHUDO)XQG 40,000 40,000
3DUNODQG5HVHUYH)XQG 40,000 40,000
6WDWH*UDQW 80,000 80,000
Total 190,000 190,000
Budget Impact/Other
Monday, May 11, 2015
Paj 16
FY 2016 Capital Investment Plan FY 16 thru FY 20 Department Parks and Recreation
City of Dover, Delaware Contact Public Works Director
Type Improvement
Project # PR1701
Useful Life 10-15 years
Project Name Park and Playground Improvement Program Category General
New Project: No Account Number: Priority 1
Time-Line: FY17-FY20 Status Active
Total Project Cost: $66,000
Description
This project provides for a regular replacement of playground equipment throughout the park system. It could also potentially include installation
of playground equipment in parks without equipment. This is important to ensure that equipment is replaced as old equipment deteriorates and
becomes less safe. All newly installed equipment will meet the standards of the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Justification
As equipment ages it deteriorates and can become unsightly and/or unsafe. Replacement of dated equipment is important to ensure that our parks
meet the needs of the population and provides a safe play environment.
Expenditures FY 16 FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 FY 20 Total
&RQVWUXFWLRQ0DLQWHQDQFH 66,000 66,000
Total 66,000 66,000
Funding Sources FY 16 FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 FY 20 Total
*HQHUDO)XQG 33,000 33,000
6WDWH*UDQW 33,000 33,000
Total 66,000 66,000
Budget Impact/Other
Monday, May 11, 2015
Paj 17
FY 2016 Capital Investment Plan FY 16 thru FY 20 Department Parks and Recreation
City of Dover, Delaware Contact Public Works Director
Type Improvement
Project # PR1702
Useful Life 10-15 years
Project Name Splash Pad Category General
New Project: No Account Number: TBD Priority 1
Time-Line: FY17-FY18 Status Active
Total Project Cost: $300,000
Description
This project will construct a ground-level splash pad in a City Park. Consequences of delaying or eliminating this project include; not meeting the
needs of our residents who depend on Silver Lake for outdoor recreation.
Justification
This project would improve the quality of life for families in Dover. It would be an enhancement to our summer outdoor camp and sport activities
and provide outdoor water activities during the summer months.
Expenditures FY 16 FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 FY 20 Total
3ODQQLQJ'HVLJQ 20,000 20,000
&RQVWUXFWLRQ0DLQWHQDQFH 280,000 280,000
Total 20,000 280,000 300,000
Funding Sources FY 16 FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 FY 20 Total
*HQHUDO)XQG 10,000 10,000
3DUNODQG5HVHUYH)XQG 150,000 150,000
6WDWH*UDQW 10,000 130,000 140,000
Total 20,000 280,000 300,000
Budget Impact/Other
Increased Water Usage
Budget Items FY 16 FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 FY 20 Total
2WKHU ,QVXUDQFH8WLOLWLHV 19,000 20,000 39,000
Total 19,000 20,000 39,000
Monday, May 11, 2015
Paj 18
FY 2016 Capital Investment Plan FY 16 thru FY 20 Department Parks and Recreation
City of Dover, Delaware Contact Public Works Director
Type Improvement
Project # PR1703
Useful Life 10-15 years
Project Name Skate Parks Category General
New Project: No Account Number: TBD Priority 3
Time-Line: FY17-FY18 Status Active
Total Project Cost: $310,000
Description
This project will construct a skating area in a City Park. Consequences of delaying or eliminating this project will result in the continual lack of
meeting the needs of the youth population, more destruction and problems with business property.
Justification
Many youth and their parents have approached the City to build a skateboard park. Area business owners have complained about skateboarders
damaging their property. This park would give the youth a designated area to use their skateboards. In addition, the City will work with the State
Park Committee and Kent County Levy Court to develop a skate park in Fiscal 2018.
Expenditures FY 16 FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 FY 20 Total
3ODQQLQJ'HVLJQ 10,000 10,000
&RQVWUXFWLRQ0DLQWHQDQFH 300,000 300,000
Total 10,000 300,000 310,000
Funding Sources FY 16 FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 FY 20 Total
*HQHUDO)XQG 150,000 150,000
3DUNODQG5HVHUYH)XQG 10,000 10,000
6WDWH*UDQW 150,000 150,000
Total 10,000 300,000 310,000
Budget Impact/Other
Monday, May 11, 2015
Paj 19
FY 2016 Capital Investment Plan FY 16 thru FY 20 Department Parks and Recreation
City of Dover, Delaware Contact Public Works Director
Type Improvement
Project # PR1803
Useful Life 10-15 years
Project Name Silver Lake Revitalization Project Category General
New Project: No Account Number: Priority 3
Time-Line: FY18-FY20 Status Active
Total Project Cost: $300,000
Description
The proposed project will remove all the old pavement and parking areas and construct a new central parking lot and access to the boat ramp area
as well as access from Kings Highway. The existing pavement condition is in poor repair, and the parking pods create a public perception
problem. This project will plant trees, flowers and shrubs below the Silver Lake dam to Court Street, along the St. Jones River in order to improve
water quality and protect the stream bank. This will be a multi-year project. The department continues to receive complaints regarding the parking
pods, the further deterioration of the existing pavement sections and parking areas, lack of stormwater management practices, bank erosion related
to stormwater runoff and poor lighting.
Justification
Currently there are no stormwater management practices being implemented at this site and the location adjacent to the St. Jones River causes
direct stormwater discharge to an environmentally sensitive area. The proposed reconstruction and relocation of the loaded parking lot will allow
for best management practices regarding stormwater management to be implemented at this site.
Expenditures FY 16 FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 FY 20 Total
3ODQQLQJ'HVLJQ 50,000 50,000
0LVFHOODQHRXV 250,000 250,000
Total 50,000 250,000 300,000
Funding Sources FY 16 FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 FY 20 Total
&RPPXQLW\7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ 250,000 250,000
)XQG
*HQHUDO)XQG 50,000 50,000
Total 50,000 250,000 300,000
Budget Impact/Other
Monday, May 11, 2015