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REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular Council Meeting was held on July 22, 2013 at 7:30 p.m. with Council President Bonar
presiding. Council members present were Mr. Dixon, Mr. Lynn, Mr. Perza, Mr. Slavin,
Mrs. Williams, Mr. Hare, and Mr. Hutchison. Mr. Anderson was absent.
Council staff members present were Police Chief Hosfelt, Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Koenig,
Mrs. Townshend, Fire Chief Patrick West, City Solicitor Rodriguez, and Mrs. McDowell.
Mayor Carey was also present.
OPEN FORUM
The Open Forum was held at 7:15 p.m., prior to commencement of the Official Council Meeting.
Council President Bonar declared the Open Forum in session and reminded those present that
Council was not in official session and could not take formal action.
Ms. Ellen Wasfi, 286 Pine Valley Road and member of the Dover Human Relations Commission
(DHRC) referred to action taken by the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee held
earlier in the evening in regard to the DHRC and noted that the recommendation did not include
meetings being held on a monthly basis. She advised members that currently, during each DHRC
monthly meeting, time is set aside specifically for public comments, allowing citizens the
opportunity to express their concerns regarding issues involving the community. These comments
are often a stimulus for action taken and forums scheduled by the DHRC. As an example, she stated
that on February 22, 2012, several members of the Dover community appeared before the DHRC to
express their concern about crime and racist flyers distributed in downtown Dover, which led to
lengthy discussion on both issues. In addition, she stated that in May 2013, members of the
community commented on the lack of diversity in hiring practices and the awarding of contracts by
companies engaging in economic development in Dover in compliance with the Supplier Diversity
Program. Ms. Wasfi stated that these issues came out of a monthly meeting of the DHRC and
indicated that she would be concerned if Council mandates that the DHRC should not meet on a
monthly basis. Secondly, she stated that the Committee recommended that all DHRC meetings be
held in the Council Chambers and advised members that some of the most valuable work done by
the DHRC had been at outreach meetings held in different areas of the community, which provides
those living in the community the opportunity to relay their concerns and request assistance in
addressing those concerns.
Mr. William Washington, 8 Mishoe Street, advised members that he moved to Dover in 1999, at
which time there was a lot of crime and homeless people. Soon after moving here, he began working
at the Salvation Army, which provided a men’s shelter. He advised members that there was a bad
winter storm that year and that the homeless were found throughout the community and were
provided a place to stay at the shelter. He stated that this program worked. The next year, the
program was eliminated and he questioned why programs that work are “struck down.” He noted
that the youth in the community have nowhere to go and nothing to do but to hang out in the streets,
at all hours. He felt that there was a need for a police force that patrols neighborhoods on foot since
more can be seen and stopped by patrolling an area on foot. Mr. Washington urged members to take
action before it is too late and Dover becomes like Philadelphia, where there is a murder every day.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 2
Mr. Gerald Derry, 1449 Nathaniel Mitchell Road, stated that although he concurred with the
concerns of Mr. Washington, he noted that there were community centers, such as the YMCA,
bowling alleys, etc., and activities available for the youth; however, they choose not to participate
in these activities.
Mr. EShed Alston, 406 Arnold Court, referred to action taken by the Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee held earlier in the evening in regard to the Dover Human Relations
Commission (DHRC) and questioned why members would want to lessen the number of DHRC
meetings and felt that this would be best for people that are disenfranchised. He stated that he
represented disenfranchised people and advised members that more was needed, not less, and
questioned why the City had adopted a mind set not to listen to the people that are affected, noting
that those affected made it clear that more attention was needed for these issues and not less. He felt
that the City’s intent was to undermine the disenfranchised black community, explaining that people
had relayed their issues and concerns and it appeared that the City was ignoring this information.
He stated that most DHRC members and City Council members are Caucasians and most of those
people that had relayed their concerns were not Caucasians, noting that this represented a racial
divide. He reiterated that the disenfranchised black community had made it clear that they need a
more active and effective Human Relations Commission. Mr. Alston reminded members that the
reason this issue was currently being considered was because there were false statements that there
were no complaints made to the DHRC and he presented four (4) examples. He requested that
members consider that we are all children of the same God and bleed the same color red and that the
black community is in need of more and not less.
Mr. Reuben Salters, 109 Bertrand Drive, noted that recent tragedies involving the youth, such as
murders, are occurring both locally and throughout the country. He stated that Dover remains small
enough for people to come together to take action to reverse this pattern. However, he indicated that
the youth need to have activities and places offered to them. He suggested that the schools be
encouraged to open during the summer to provide activities for the youth so that Dover does not fall
into the trap of neglecting the youth and then blaming the children for things for which adults are
responsible. He felt that City Council, along with staff, have the intelligence and means to assure
that the children of Dover are properly cared for both educationally and recreationally so that the
youth will be less of a problem and have an opportunity to become law abiding citizens.
The invocation was given by Bishop Thomas L. Holsey, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Council President Bonar noted the recent death of Mr. John J. Friedman (previous Chairman and
member of the City of Dover Planning Commission) and requested a moment of silence, after which
he announced that services for Mr. Friedman would be held on Saturday, August 3rd, at 1:00 p.m.,
at the Calvary Assembly of God Church located at 1141 East Lebanon Road in Dover.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 3
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Council President Bonar stated that due to the absence of Mrs. Goldie Legates, Item #5A -
Recognition of Service for Goldie Legates - Election Board, was removed from the agenda.
Mr. Hutchison moved for approval of the agenda as amended, seconded by Mrs. Williams and
unanimously carried.
Council President Bonar advised members that Mr. Perza had requested the removal of Item #7A -
Proposed Splash Park (Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee Report of
July 8, 2013) from the consent agenda.
Mr. Slavin moved for approval of the consent agenda as amended, seconded by Mr. Hutchison
and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Anderson absent).
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 8, 2013
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of July 8, 2013 were unanimously approved by
motion of Mr. Slavin, seconded by Mr. Hutchison and bore the written approval of
Mayor Carey.
REMARKS BY TSUNEAKI IGUCHI, MAYOR, CITY OF IWANUMA, JAPAN
Mayor Carey introduced Mayor Tsuneaki Iguchi, City of Iwanuma, Japan. Speaking in Japanese,
as translated, Mayor Iguchi thanked the City for giving him this opportunity to come before City
Council. During his last visit, 10 years ago, he and the then Mayor Hutchison made an agreement
for each City to declare the other as a Friendship City. Since 2000, every March, Japanese students
have come to City of Dover as a part of the Student Exchange Program, with the exception of 2011,
when there was a great earthquake in northeast Japan which prevented the students from coming
since they were scheduled to depart the day after the earthquake. He assured members that in March
2014, more students would be sent to Dover and thanked the City for accepting these students.
On behalf of the City of Iwanuma, Mayor Iguchi thanked the City of Dover for the support and
assistance provided by the United States, State of Delaware, and City of Dover during and following
the great northeast earthquake. He informed members that the City of Iwanuma was the fastest
recovering City in the large area affected by the earthquake, for which they are very proud. He stated
that Japanese Prime Minister Abe recognized this of Iwanuma and gave them encouragement. Mayor
Iguchi stated that Vice-President Joe Biden visited Iwanuma following the earthquake and
encouraged those students that were unable to participate in the exchange program in March 2011.
Mayor Iguchi advised members that when the exchange students arrive each year, they indicate their
love for Mayor Carey and state that he is very different from their Mayor. He again thanked
members for all their support and asked that they continue to keep the City of Iwanuma in their
thoughts as they continue to recover.
Mayor Carey introduced Ms. Miki Smith, who served as the interpreter, and thanked her for her
assistance.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 4
PRESENTATION BY LUTHERAN SENIOR SERVICES OF DOVER, INC. - PAYMENT IN
LIEU OF TAXES (PILOT)
Mr. Gary Coy, Executive Director of Lutheran Senior Services of Dover, Incorporated, presented
Mayor Carey with a contribution in the amount of $27,227 as payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) for
expenses associated with City services provided to Lutheran Senior Services throughout the year.
Mayor Carey expressed his gratitude and thanked Mr. Coy and Lutheran Senior Services for their
contribution.
Mr. Coy noted that Lutheran Senior Services is very appreciative of the City of Dover for the
services provided for both Luther Towers and Luther Village. He reminded members that Lutheran
Senior Services has now built six (6) buildings for low-income seniors and provides safe, affordable
housing. He indicated that it was anticipated that construction would begin this Fall on a seventh
building and that they look forward to working with the City in future endeavors.
In addition to this PILOT, Council President Bonar stated that each year on the Fourth of July, Luther
Towers provides the Fourth of July Committee with approximately 75 chairs to seat the National
Guard each year.
CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION - DELAWARE LEAGUE OF LOCAL
GOVERNMENTS’ 50TH ANNIVERSARY
The City Clerk read the following Certificate of Appreciation into the record:
Certificate of Appreciation
presented to the
Delaware League of Local Governments
for
50 years of dedicated support for municipalities through legislative
advocacy at the state and federal levels.
The Mayor, Council, and Staff of the City of Dover appreciate your
continued commitment to Dover and the surrounding communities.
July 22, 2013
Mayor Carey presented the Certificate of Appreciation to Mr. George Wright, Executive Director
of the Delaware League of Local Governments.
On behalf of the 57 towns, cities, and villages and the three (3) counties within the State of
Delaware, Mayor Wright accepted the Certificate of Appreciation. He relayed special appreciation
to the City of Dover for their generous support since the early 1970’s by providing office space. He
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 5
noted that the first President of the League was the Late Mayor Crawford Carroll and that several
members of City Council had also served as President. He indicated that the past five (5) years had
been difficult due to various federal and state budget cuts.
Mr. Hutchison personally thanked Mayor Wright for his service, noting that he had served as the
foundation for the League of Local Governments throughout the State of Delaware. He stated that
Mayor Wright had been a great friend and leader.
RECOGNITION OF SERVICE - DAVID A. LEWIS, JR. - PARKS, RECREATION, AND
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE (MAY 2006 - MAY 2013) AND DOVER
PUBLIC LIBRARY ADVISORY COMMISSION (MARCH 2008 - MAY 2011)
On behalf of members of Council, Mayor Carey presented Mr. David A. Lewis, Jr. with a Dover Cup
in recognition of his service on the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee
from May 2006 through May 2013, and the Dover Public Library Advisory Commission from
March 2008 through May 2011.
Mr. Lewis thanked members for the recognition and relayed his appreciation to
Councilwoman Williams for leading him in the direction to serve as a member of the Parks,
Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee. He stated that, with the assistance of former
Councilmen Ruane and McGlumphy and the late Councilwoman Russell, he learned how to serve
as a member and enjoyed his tenure. He also thanked his wife, Felicia; his son, Keith; and his
daughter, who was unable to join him. He thanked the Mayor for his open door policy and City
Council and Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend for their assistance.
PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 2013-20 - RONALD SHOMO
The City Clerk read a proposed Resolution recognizing Mr. Ronald Shomo for his faithful and
exemplary service as an active member of the City of Dover Planning Commission from
June 14, 2010 through June 17, 2013.
Mr. Lynn moved for adoption of the Resolution, seconded by Mr. Hare, and by a unanimous
roll call vote (Anderson absent), Council adopted Resolution No. 2013-20, as follows:
WHEREAS, Ronald Shomo was appointed to the City of Dover Planning Commission on
June 14, 2010 and has served with diligence and distinction in this capacity as an advocate for sound
land use planning in the public interest, ensuring fundamental fairness and careful forethought in the
planning and development of the Capital City; and,
WHEREAS, Ronald Shomo has influenced the pattern and appearance of development in Dover
through his contributions as a Planning Commissioner to the implementation of the 2008
Comprehensive Plan and his participation in the development of numerous amendments to the City
of Dover Zoning Ordinance including the AEOZ and ROS zones, and amendments to the
environmental provisions, the application procedures, and other site development improvements;
and,
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 6
WHEREAS, Ronald Shomo completed his service on the City of Dover Planning Commission on
June 17, 2013.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor, Council and Planning Commission do
hereby express their sincere appreciation to Ronald Shomo for his faithful and exemplary service to
the Citizens of the City of Dover as an active member of the City of Dover Planning Commission.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor, Council and Planning Commission wish Ronald
Shomo success in all future endeavors and direct the City Clerk to make this resolution a part of the
permanent records of the City of Dover as a lasting symbol of appreciation and gratitude to Ronald
Shomo.
ADOPTED: JULY 22, 2013
Mayor Carey presented the Resolution to Mr. Shomo and relayed appreciation for his service to the
City of Dover and the community and noted that he will be continuing to serve the City as a member
of the Greater Dover Arts Council.
Mr. Shomo indicated that it was quite an experience serving as a member of the Planning
Commission and relayed his hope that Dover appreciated its outstanding City planners. He also
thanked Dover, noting that 42 years ago when the Dover Symphony first started, he soon became
Director of the Orchestra and continued to serve in that capacity for 20 years. In addition, he noted
that he worked in the Dover High School Band Program, which began with 30 members in the band
and had 230 members during his last year there. Mr. Shomo thanked his wife, Ruth, for her
understanding and support, explaining that he was often gone during the evenings due to rehearsals.
Mr. Lynn thanked Mr. Shomo for his dedication to the community over many years and his family
for sharing him. He noted that the community was better as a result of his commitment.
PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE REPORT -
JULY 8, 2013
The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee met on July 8, 2013 with
Chairman Dixon presiding.
Proposed Splash Park
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, reminded
members that when the North Dover Athletic Pool was removed and swimming became restricted
at Silver Lake, the City determined that there was a need to begin planning for water recreation.
After conducting research, it was determined that a Splash/Spray Park would be a viable option for
providing water-based recreation without the costs and liabilities that would be associated with
operating a public pool, explaining that since a Splash/Spray Park would not hold water, it would
not require a life guard and would not have the same liability issues as a pool.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 7
Mrs. Townshend stated that once the City made the determination for a Splash/Spray Park, park
locations were evaluated. Although there was discussion of locating the Splash Park at Silver Lake,
it was staff’s belief that there were constraints, making it infeasible. The City was also in the process
of developing a master plan for Schutte Park, and the decision was made that this would be the
appropriate location for the Splash Park.
Mrs. Townshend noted that the Splash Park was added to the Parks and Recreation Capital
Improvement Plan (CIP); however, due to the City’s fiscal constraints, it was moved to out years for
design in FY15, in the amount of $20,000, and construction in FY16, in the amount of $280,000.
She stated that the location at Schutte Park has been discussed with the City Manager, and it has
been determined that a public process to evaluate appropriate locations should be undertaken, with
a location ultimately to be approved by City Council following a recommendation of the Parks,
Recreation and Community Enhancement Committee. She indicated that the City Manager felt that
the park should be more centrally located and accessible by walking. Mrs. Townshend indicated that
the City has three (3) parks, Schutte Park, Dover Park, and Silver Lake Park. At this time, staff felt
that public opinion as to the best location should first be determined and then the City could address
infrastructure issues and other concerns so that the design process could begin, with the following
schedule being proposed for the Splash Park project: FY14 - Outreach and Siting, FY15 and FY16 -
Design and Construction.
Staff recommended that public outreach and the feasibility of potential locations be performed to
determine the most suitable location for the proposed Splash Park so that the design can proceed in
FY15, with a recommendation being made to the Committee regarding the proposed location
following the public outreach.
Responding to Mr. Caldwell, Mrs. Townshend advised members that although there are no other
splash parks within the State of Delaware, there are in Pennsylvania (near Delaware) and Maryland.
Mr. Caldwell relayed concern regarding the initial and ongoing costs, explaining that there would
be costs for maintenance, employees, equipment, etc. He also relayed concerns regarding security
and safety.
Mrs. Horsey referred to an article she read in the Wilmington News Journal regarding some type of
water fountains located throughout the City of Wilmington. She felt that the City of Wilmington
may be able to provide additional information regarding costs, design, etc. She indicated her support
for obtaining public input regarding the location of the park.
In response to Mr. Dixon, Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, indicated that the proposed Splash Park
was one of those “nice to have” projects and would not be a revenue generator. He felt that the age
group of users of the park needed to be determined since this would determine the actual design of
the park.
Regarding costs, Mrs. Townshend explained that instituting a charge for use of the park would only
drive costs up since there would be a need for the City to hire someone to ensure users have made
payment for use of the park, which was not the original intention.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 8
Mr. Koenig reiterated that staff should be directed to determine if the City was addressing the needs
of the right age group and if such a park would be the best method to address the needs of that group.
He stated that once that is determined, along with the location, the cost issues would be addressed
and explained the possibility that the initial set-up costs may be significant. In addition, he stated
that security concerns and issues such as what would happen to the park after hours would need to
be further researched before the park could be designed.
In response to Mr. Caldwell’s previous concerns, Mr. Koenig confirmed that the City needed to
determine whether a splash park was an option desired by the community, noting that currently, there
were no water-related activities in the City and that a splash park would be the least expensive
option, compared to cleaning up Silver Lake or consideration of a public swimming pool. He
explained that there was also a question as to how often such a park would be used.
Concurring with Mr. Caldwell’s concerns regarding costs, Mr. Dixon reminded members that the
City recently expended funds for basketball courts on Kirkwood Street as well as a playground and
park on New Street, which are now seldom used.
The Committee recommended that staff be instructed to move forward with the proposed
Splash/Spray Park by performing public outreach and examining local parks to determine the most
suitable location, taking the concerns expressed by the Committee into consideration, and
subsequently presenting the findings to the Committee.
During the Council Meeting, Mr. Perza questioned if the Committee’s recommendation would
require any budgetary expenditure. Responding, Mrs. Townshend assured members that there would
be no budgetary expenditure at this time.
Mr. Lynn moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation that staff be instructed to
move forward with the proposed Splash/Spray Park by performing public outreach and
examining local parks to determine the most suitable location, taking the concerns expressed
by the Committee into consideration, and subsequently presenting the findings to the
Committee. The motion was seconded by Mr. Slavin and carried with Mr. Perza voting no.
Future Use of the Dover Park Recreation Center
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, advised members that since the opening of the John W. Pitts Center
in April 2008, the demand for use of the Recreation Center building at Dover Park had declined.
Although the City continued to rent the Dover Park Recreation Center out for parties, the Pitts Center
became the primary focus of the City’s recreation programming. He noted that the Recreation
Center, which had been a hub of community activity during previous years, no longer served the
purposes of the City’s recreation programming and that programs that were scheduled for the
Recreation Center were frequently cancelled due to low attendance.
Mr. Koenig also advised members that the building, which was constructed in 1974, had become
dated and in need of investment to maintain functionality. He stated that staff offices continued to
be located at the Recreation Center until August 2012, when all Recreation staff were relocated to
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 9
the Pitts Center. He indicated that the City had discontinued rental of the building and that the
FY2013 budget included $30,000 in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) to replace the roof of the
building, explaining that the roof had routinely been patched to repair leaks.
Mr. Koenig reminded members that during FY2013, there was discussion about potentially renting
the building out to a non-profit organization. Before investing funds to replace the roof and pursuing
the potential of leasing the building to a non-profit organization, staff felt it was important to do a
full assessment of the building to determine what other investments would be necessary to make the
building functional, as all of the building’s systems were dated and in need of some update. As a
result, he stated that Compliance Environmental, Inc., was retained to do a Building Condition
Survey. Members reviewed the “Report of Findings from a Building Condition Survey” dated
May 6, 2013. Mr. Koenig noted that Table 1 in Attachment A included a summary of the
recommended repairs as well as cost estimates. He advised members that although the Building
Condition Survey did not include a structural engineering report, if City Council wished to keep the
building and renovate it, staff would recommend that a structural engineering report be obtained
prior to any renovations. However, based on the information contained in the Building Condition
Survey, he stated that staff recommended demolition of the structure and noted that the costs
associated with demolition, estimated at $20,000 for Asbestos Removal and $30,000 for Demolition
(bids would require City Council approval), were not currently budgeted.
Staff recommended that the Recreation Center building at Dover Park be demolished.
Mr. Caldwell indicated his concerns regarding the demolition of the building and felt that this would
cause the City to lose funds. Responding, Mrs. Townshend advised members that the YMCA was
currently using the building for their Summer Camp Program and that they had a separate reservation
for fields and pavilions. She noted the benefit of having a presence in the park since there had been
problems with vandalism (broken windows) and that the City had been spending money to maintain
the building. One of the benefits of the YMCA utilizing the building was that the associated
agreement included a provision that the YMCA was responsible for paying the utility bill.
Mrs. Townshend stated that the City would need to make a significant investment to complete the
renovations that would be required to the building and that it would be less expensive to demolish
it. She explained that not only had the design of the building caused the City a great deal of money,
but there were other concerns with the building, such as lead paint and asbestos issues, as mentioned
in the Building Survey Report.
Mrs. Horsey indicated that she typically opposes the demolition of buildings; however, she was
aware of the substantial costs the building had caused the City, as well as the issues included in the
Building Survey Report.
Mr. Koenig noted that it would cost the City approximately $150,000 to $170,000 in order to address
those issues listed in the Building Survey Report. If Council decided to move forward with
addressing those issues, he explained, the next question would be for what purpose the City would
use the building and what type of security would be utilized. If the building were demolished, he
indicated that staff would need to develop an alternative plan for the use of the site.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 10
In response to concerns that the City would discount the park if the building were removed,
Mrs. Townshend assured members that this was not staff’s intent, explaining that the City’s best
tennis courts are located there and continued to be used, a church softball league played there, the
YMCA used the multi-purpose field this year for its soccer program, etc. Noting that it was a
beautiful City park, she explained the need for staff to determine how to increase use of the park and
develop a plan to make it a community asset.
The Committee recommended moving forward with the demolition of the Dover Park Recreation
Center building, based on the reports provided, as recommended by staff.
Mr. Dixon noted that since the Committee meeting, several members of the community had relayed
opposition to the demolition of the Dover Park Recreation Center building, as recommended by the
Committee. As a result, he felt that the matter should be referred back to the Committee for further
discussion.
Mr. Dixon moved to refer the consideration of the future use of the Dover Park Recreation Center
back to the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee for further discussion,
seconded by Mr. Slavin.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison, Mr. Koenig stated that the building was constructed in 1974 and that
the report prepared by Compliance Environmental, Inc. identified approximately $110,000 worth of
improvements needed related to environmental conditions. In addition, he stated that there would
be additional costs associated with American Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements, resulting in a
minimum total cost of $150,000 for the building to become operational.
In response to Mr. Slavin, Mr. Koenig confirmed that the building was currently being used for
summer camp by the YMCA, which served approximately 50 children.
In response to Mr. Lynn, Mr. Koenig indicated that, to his knowledge, there was no conscientious
effort to delay maintenance on the building. In recent years, the building had been utilized by City
staff and as office space for the League of Local Governments. Some of the issues with the building
included an aged roof and windows, the presence of asbestos, etc. Several of these issues were
simply due to the initial construction of the building, explaining that the type of windows installed
were common for that period, as well as the use of asbestos material. He indicated that the building
was antiquated in terms of its layout, explaining that the architecture was more prevalent for that
period of time and for several years the building had not been able to be used as a functioning
recreational center, other than for special events.
Responding to Mrs. Williams, Mr. Koenig stated that no one had approached the City regarding the
purchase of the building, which he felt could not be done due to the building’s location within a City
Park. However, he stated that there had been discussions with a non-profit organization who
indicated interest in the building and that staff had been contacted by several other non-profit
organizations who had also expressed interest. He explained that staff’s concern regarding use of
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 11
the building by a non-profit group was that it would be necessary for the City to advertise and go
through a Request for Proposals (RFP) process and to develop some type of criteria for evaluating
those proposals. In addition, he relayed his reluctance to allow any long-term tenant use of the
building without renovations.
With regard to a non-profit organization utilizing the building, Mr. Koenig indicated his concerns
as to how the City would control the programming and the use of the balance of the park outside of
the building, etc.
Mrs. Williams noted that in 1994, when the 801 Shelter was in the same condition as the Center,
application was made to the Delaware State Housing Authority for a grant to reconstruct the
building. The grant received was $220,000 and included preconstruction design, etc. She questioned
if there had been any effort to seek a partner that could help the City with the Center in this way.
Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that staff had not researched this possibility nor pursued any
discussions regarding grants or loans associated with improvements to the building.
Mrs. Townshend indicated her feeling that, although staff could explore the possibility of obtaining
grant monies, the challenge would be what the function of the building would be if restored. She
explained that if the plan would be for the City to run programs, this would result in an increase over
the current level of service. Regarding Mrs. Williams’ suggestion for some staff to be transferred
from Schutte Park, Mrs. Townshend explained that, from an administrative standpoint, it had been
determined to be more efficient for staff to be centrally located in one building and that it would be
necessary to review the best way to provide staff at the Center.
Mr. Perza noted that demolition of the building would cost approximately $20,000 and refurbishing
the building would cost approximately $150,000. He questioned if staff had determined costs for
constructing an entirely new building at the site. Responding, Mr. Koenig felt that the costs for new
construction would be comparable if considering the life cycle; however, he relayed concern that
those costs would be substantial. Mr. Perza referred to the parks utilized when he was a child in the
Mayfair, Crossgates, and Sherwood neighborhoods and advised members that there was no building
at these parks and they still served their purpose. Although he understood the purpose of such
community buildings, he did not feel that having a building in a park was an absolute necessity.
Should Council refer this matter back to the Committee, Mr. Slavin encouraged members to explore
the possibility of a public/private partnership for the building as a potential solution. He advised
members of his familiarity with public/private partnerships in his position with the State, explaining
that there are 40 properties managed, with about a dozen of those being occupied by non-profit
organizations who pay nominal rent, sometimes only $1 per year, and pay for their utilities. The
State then uses their not-for-profit status as a partnership to attract private funding. He assured
members that this was a model that had proven useful and stated his willingness to explain to the
Committee how this is accomplished.
Responding to Mr. Hare, Mrs. Townshend confirmed that for the past several years recreational
programs scheduled for the Center had to be cancelled due to the lack of registration. If there were
participation and registration for these programs, the future use of the building would not be an issue
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and the City would be considering expanding the programming to have it function as a drop-in
recreation center; however, she stated that it had been at least 15 years since the Center had
functioned in that way.
Mr. Lynn stated that whether or not there are activities occurring at the Center was not related to
whether or not the City chooses to make the necessary repairs. He also suggested that the programs
that have been offered may not suit the needs of the surrounding community. He felt that there may
be a programming issue rather than a participation issue leading to the lack of the use of the Center.
Council President Bonar noted the receipt of several letters and emails in opposition to the
demolition of the building, including a message from Councilman Anderson encouraging members
to defer action and consider seeking a partnership with a non-profit organization.
Mrs. Williams suggested that staff be instructed to research the possibility of a public/private
partnership or develop a recommendation for obtaining funds to either renovate or replace the
building prior to the Committee’s review.
Mrs. Townshend requested that staff be provided additional time to conduct the research and provide
recommendations to the Committee in September.
The motion to refer the matter back to the Committee, with the proviso that staff research
methodologies for funding repair or replacement or finding a public/private partnership to
keep the Recreation Center in operation was unanimously carried.
Mr. Perza questioned the possibility of the Committee meeting being held at the Center when this
matter is further considered by the Committee during their meeting in September. He felt it would
prove to be beneficial to actual be at the site when discussing matters related to the building.
Mr. Lynn moved for acceptance of the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement
Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Slavin and unanimously carried.
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE REPORT -
JULY 8, 2013
The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee met on July 8, 2013 with Chairman Lynn
presiding.
Proposed Amendments to Chapter 58 - Human Relations Commission
During their meeting of June 10, 2013, Council approved the Committee’s recommendation of
May 28, 2013 that the Chair of the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee schedule
a Special Meeting for the purpose of discussing recommendation Items #1-5 included in the
Committee Action Form (CAF) pertaining to the Dover Human Relations Commission (DHRC).
During the Committee meeting of June 24, 2013, Mr. Hutchison stated that since the creation of the
DHRC in 2002, it had served a very important part in addressing some critical issues in the City;
however, based upon past performance, there were some issues and concerns which needed to be
reviewed and addressed. He voiced his concerns regarding the size of the Commission, stating that
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15 members were too many, and the serious problem of retaining members, noting the Mayor and
Council had received resignations from numerous members. The Committee reviewed each of the
five (5) recommended items and then opened the floor for public comments. After much discussion,
members tabled the matter until the next meeting to allow the opportunity for members to obtain and
review the DHRC by-laws, the number and type of complaints received, and research regarding the
City Solicitor's review of the formation of the DHRC
The Committee removed the matter from the table.
Mr. Hare reiterated his desire to reduce the membership of the Commission to nine (9) members, to
include two (2) members from each Council district and one (1) at-large, similar to the Planning
Commission membership, feeling that each Council district should be represented and that all
members should be City of Dover residents.
Concurring, Mr. Dixon felt that it would be more beneficial for the Commission to be comprised of
representatives from each election district to create a balance. He stated his opinion that the
Commission should provide training to City officials, as the Delaware State Human Relation
Commission (SHRC) does for State officials, to ensure the fair treatment of all people.
Mr. Rushe questioned if there was a need for the Commission to meet on a monthly basis and
suggested that their meeting requirements be reduced to quarterly or on an as needed basis.
Bishop Gregory Gordon, 56 South New Street, felt that the three (3) minute time limit was
insufficient for public testimony. He reminded members that the DHRC was a link between the City
and the citizens of Dover that afforded the citizens the ability to come before a body that would listen
and take action. He noted that many DHRC members took a personal vested interest in the problems
relayed to them and would advise citizens of solutions or direction regarding how to alleviate their
problem. Bishop Gordon advised members of concerns regarding equality for those merchants
located on the west end of Loockerman Street beyond Governors Avenue, noting that they were not
provided the same funding as businesses located east of Governors Avenue. In addition, he noted
that previously there was no ability to display street banners on the west end of Loockerman Street,
although subsequently changes were made that allowed for banners to be hung in this area.
Mr. EShed Alston, 406 Arnold Court, concurred with the objections of Bishop Gordon regarding the
three (3) minute time limit for public testimony. He explained his main concern was how the
DHRC, the City administration, or City Council “dropped the ball” which resulted in two (2) dead
children (Connelly and Clark). He expressed his belief that in these cases contemporaneous records
exist and have been obstructed. He referred to records he had obtained that he felt raised pertinent
issues, such as whether direction came from the City of Dover or Delaware Department of Justice,
and questioned who was running the City of Dover. He stated that initially, in September 2012, a
contemporaneous record was made that was obstructed by the City of Dover and indicated that he
alleged and intended to prove beyond any reasonable doubt that the City of Dover was well aware
of what was going on and obstructed it. Mr. Alston stated that there had been obstruction of justice,
collusion, and conspiracy to collude, which were serious charges that he could prove.
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Ms. Gail Tolbert, member of the White Oak Homeowners Association, stated that with the exception
of Councilman Lynn and an additional representative, no other members of Council visit the area
during elections, which she stated made it difficult when she attempted to encourage new residents
to vote. She questioned why no one knows who they are when there is a problem in that area. She
indicated that there were residents moving in and out of the White Oak and Towne Point
subdivisions and requested that all elected officials visit the residents in the area.
Ms. Rochelle Jackson requested that Bishop Gordon be provided her allotted time to speak.
The committee suspended the rules to allow the public additional time beyond the allotted three (3)
minutes to speak.
Bishop Gordon noted that the City had expended funds to beautify the downtown area and had
erected buildings, created parks, etc.; however, he questioned what was being done for others in the
area that do not have jobs. He felt that the DHRC had pulled together, with the assistance of his
ministry, to develop what is called “Second Chance Partners.” The DHRC was able to hold a bank
of people with employable gifts that could be used to support their family. By offering such
opportunities, he advised members that 300 people had been able to acquire jobs through his
ministry and that the DHRC had been very instrumental in providing him with direction in this
regard. Bishop Gordon explained that some of the “Second Chance” employers accept the
individuals with their backgrounds, knowing that they had come through his ministry and its
teachings and that they were trying to rehabilitate themselves. Bishop Gordon indicated that these
individuals were drug tested and offered drug prevention scenarios. Although his ministry assists
the homeless, he explained that some people do not want to change; therefore, there would always
be a homeless presence. However, he assured members that there were some individuals that need
and want the help offered. In relaying his support of the DHRC, he requested those in the audience
that felt that the Commission was necessary to stand and noted that there were 11 people who stood
in support.
Mr. Rushe felt that members did not wish to eliminate the DHRC but desired to make it better.
Noting that the Dover Code currently provided for 15 members to serve on the Commission, it was
his feeling that the Commission could be better structured with fewer members serving and
questioned the meeting requirements (monthly, quarterly, etc.).
Responding, Bishop Gordon felt that the DHRC should meet more often than monthly and did not
feel that it would be beneficial to reduce the membership. He requested that members look into their
hearts and, while they are eating lavish meals (such as Thanksgiving) in their big, nice homes, with
several family members and friends, that they consider the person eating a can of spam with some
dried toast and sharing it with their family. He stated that the DHRC wholeheartedly understood
these types of situations and that members had helped facilitate meals for others. With this kind of
help being provided, Bishop Gordon stated that rather than reducing the membership, he felt there
was a need for the Commission to have 30 members.
Noting the passion of Bishop Gordon, Mr. Alston felt that it would be a different Commission if
someone like Bishop Gordon served as a member or someone like himself with legal training. He
suggested that City Council recruit the “Gordons” and “Alstons” in the community since they had
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the skills and passion to do the things that were not being done. He stated that the problems were
not due to economics or politics but rather issues of “will or will not” and, in this case, it had been
a “will not.” He questioned if members had the will to make a change or not. He noted that if there
were no change, the status quo would continue. If members did not take action to resolve these
issues, he stated that such matters would be reviewed and resolved by a court.
Dr. Jahi Issa, 1300 S. Farmview Drive, explained that his intent and that of others in attendance was
not to embarrass the City but rather to make Dover a better place for all citizens. He felt that if any
citizen felt unsafe, it was the right of the elected official to alleviate this feeling. It was his opinion
that members of City Council wished to ignore the complaints made rather than addressing the
issues. He suggested that members take the issues seriously and not run from them.
Dr. Issa advised members of complaints made to the DHRC and, although the minutes of the
meeting were not available, he had a video of a legitimate DHRC meeting that everyone was
“pretending never happened.” He stated that the complaints consist of murders and attempted
murders by the individuals that lived at 30 Governors Avenue and were brought to the attention of
the Mayor, with names and addresses. He expressed hope that there would be a proper investigation
or citizens would be allowed to create a task force and launch an investigation so that they did not
have to walk the streets in fear. He noted that white citizens did not have this fear; however, black
citizens were familiar with this ugly, age-old fear.
Responding and taking offense to certain comments, Mr. Hare assured Dr. Issa that such fear was
not relative to citizens being black or white. He explained that recently, while his grandchildren
were visiting, his home was broken into and burglarized while everyone was sleeping and that he,
a white man, had fear, along with several others in the neighborhood. He stated that it was not just
the black residents in the community or those who live in certain locations in the City that had fear
of certain things, explaining that such actions were taking place all over the City and to all people.
He stated that the burglary incident at his house was not taken to the DHRC but rather reported to
the Dover Police Department.
In response to Mr. Hare, Dr. Issa explained that he was referring to murders and attempted murders
that were being covered up and that the fears of black residents were a totally different, historical
reality.
Mr. Doug Beatty, 50 N. Draper Circle, Magnolia, stated that he served as a talk show host during
the weekends for WGMB radio. He referred to Page 13 of the DHRC Response to Action Form,
dated June 24, 2013, which was an email from Councilman Anderson indicating that Dr. Issa was
traveling in dangerous company with the War on the Horizon website radicals and this posed a
danger. Mr. Beatty advised members that the gentleman known as “Irritated Genie” on this website
interviewed himself, Dr. Issa, Henery Fordham, and Johnny Clark’s mother when no one else would
touch the story. Mr. Beatty stated that War on the Horizon was not the first choice of media outlets
and that other media outlets and law enforcement agencies were contacted before this website was
approached. He stated his understanding that Council’s sensibilities might be shocked by the
website; however, he felt the content was “nothing” compared to the feelings experienced by
someone who had worn a badge and risked their life to uphold the oath of office when they review
what happened to Henery Fordham. He questioned why no one could catch the two (2) individuals
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 16
involved, noting that he had personally given the first and last name, address, and landlord’s name
of one of them to the Mayor. Mr. Beatty stated that if he had to obtain a Facebook picture of this
individual he would. He noted that it was not his wish to embarrass the City or cause trouble. He
indicated that he had been asked to help in this situation and no one else would listen to those
involved. He urged members of Council to retain the DHRC, request an investigation into the
lynching incidents, and determine what happened to Henery Fordham.
For the record, Mr. Alston stated that he was an honorably discharged American veteran and would
not allow anyone to speak to him disrespectfully. Responding, Mr. Hare apologized.
Mr. Hutchison stated his opinion that the DHRC served as a very important body for the City, that
there should be four (4) mandatory meetings each year (quarterly), and that all other meetings should
be called based upon complaints. In addition, he felt that reducing the membership to seven (7) to
nine (9) would be sufficient and allow the membership to work together regarding concerns related
to the community.
In regard to the meetings, Mr. Rushe suggested, in addition to specifying a minimum number of
meetings being held, that the current by-laws be continued that would allow any three (3) members
to call a meeting.
Mr. Dixon reiterated his desire for the Commission to provide training to the leadership of the City
to provide an understanding of the mission of the DHRC.
Based on the discussion, Mr. Slavin noted that there was a desire to have a large membership on the
Commission; however, the past experience was that some members do not attend meetings. He felt
that the Commission should be involved with education on issues seminal to the City and its
residents. He suggested that the model they could adopt would be to have a series of mandatory
meetings, have the ability to call a meeting if the need arose, and to establish a series of workshops
that could be held throughout the year. He stated that the workshops could be sponsored by the
Commission but not necessarily “meetings of the Dover Human Relations Commission,” which he
felt could be accomplished without having a quorum of the Commission since they would only be
sponsoring the workshop.
Chairman Lynn reminded members that the recommendation as presented by Councilman Hutchison
was for the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee to examine the role and
performance of the Dover Human Relations Commission to determine the following: 1) if the
Commission is fulfilling its purpose; 2) if there is evidence of a continued necessity for the
Commission, or if it is a duplication of services provided by other agencies, committees, etc. within
the City and/or State of Delaware; 3) the possibility of amending Sec. 58-33 (c) - Meetings, of the
Dover Code to limit the Commission to meeting on an as needed basis, in the same manner as many
other City committees, commissions and boards, including the Awards Committee, Election Board,
Ethics Commission, and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals; 4) the possibility of
amending Sec. 58-32 (b) - Composition; appointment, of the Dover Code to reduce the membership
of the Commission from fifteen (15) to seven (7), which would maintain the threshold originally
proposed during the Dover Community Meeting of December 4, 2001; and 5) direct staff to prepare
a Proposed Ordinance reflecting the recommendations of the Committee.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 17
As a result of the discussions regarding this matter, Chairman Lynn expressed his opinion that the
responses to the above recommendations were as follows:
1) To some extent, the Commission was fulfilling its purpose.
2) There was continued evidence of necessity for the Commission.
3) Additional discussion was required regarding the Commission meetings.
4) Additional discussion was required regarding the desired number of members
for serving on the Commission.
5) Members needed to provide further direction in order for staff to prepare any
necessary ordinance amendments.
He questioned if there were any suggestions as to how the desires of the Committee could be
“distilled down” and put into an appropriate format for staff to develop any necessary ordinance
amendments for Council’s consideration.
Responding, Mr. Slavin felt that there was not enough time left during the meeting for members to
further discuss the issues and develop a recommendation. Given the importance of this issue and
to allow more time for discussions, he suggested that this matter be brought back at the next
scheduled Committee meeting.
The Committee tabled the matter and requested that it be put on the agenda for the next Legislative,
Finance, and Administration Committee Meeting.
At the request of Mr. Rushe, those members of the Dover Human Relations Commission that were
in attendance stood (two (2) members). Noting that several of the DHRC members were not in
attendance, he urged all DHRC members to attend the next meeting in order for them to provide their
input, feeling that it would be beneficial for members in making a final determination.
Chairman Lynn requested that Mr. Sudler reach out to the membership and request their attendance
during the next Committee meeting in order for them to state their feelings regarding the issue.
Mr. Slavin indicated that anyone who wished to directly discuss this issue with any member of
Council should feel free to do so.
Council took no further action.
By consent agenda, Mr. Slavin moved for acceptance of the Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a unanimous
roll call vote (Anderson absent).
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UTILITY COMMITTEE REPORT - JULY 22, 2013
The Utility Committee met on July 22, 2013 with Chairwoman Williams presiding. Except for the
following time sensitive issue, the Committee Report from July 22, 2013 will be presented to
Council during their Regular Meeting of August 12, 2013 for review and consideration.
Proposed Amendments - Water/Wastewater Capital Improvement Projects (CIP)
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, reminded members that during their meeting of February 13, 2012,
information was provided regarding the Calpine project at the Garrison Oak Technical Park. Staff
requested support for City funding for infrastructure improvements up to a target of $6M. At the
time of the request, it was not known how much of this amount would need to be allocated for
streets, storm water, water, and wastewater. This $6M was included in the FY13 Capital
Improvement Plan (CIP) as a placeholder and was divided up as follows: $2M for streets and storm
water, $2M for water, and $2M for wastewater, and these projects were budgeted in the FY13 CIP.
Mr. Koenig stated that there were tenants, including LS Power, that did not require utility
infrastructure associated with the City supplying utilities; however, the remainder of the park was
intended to be an industrial, manufacturing park that would have tenants with various demands. He
reminded members of the discussion that occurred in February 2012 when the Calpine Project was
considered. He noted that the first energy block proposed to be built by Calpine consisted of
309 MW and that there was a potential for a second 309 MW, for a total of 618 MW of power
production. He explained that this demand was driving the actual build-out and the proposals for
the water infrastructure associated with the project. As staff had moved forward in the planning of
the wastewater infrastructure, demands had been tagged to various lots located within the
development in order to provide a profile of the types of companies that the City hoped to have
located at the Garrison Farm.
Mr. Koenig reminded members that the $6M included in the CIP was based on discussions with
Calpine regarding infrastructure improvements associated with the Calpine Project and development
of the Garrison Farm. He stated that since then, staff had been reviewing a detailed engineering
analysis of the actual needs, explaining that staff needed to determine what would be required of the
City when Calpine had indicated a peak demand of over 2M gallons per day in order for the City to
provide fire protection and elevated storage, and to make this demand work with the remainder of
the system. As a result, staff had developed proposed revisions to the CIP that would allow the City
to move forward with the construction on the infrastructure projects since bids were now beginning
to be received.
Mr. Koenig indicated that development of the conceptual design and technical specifications of the
elevated water tank by the URS Corporation was approved by Council in September 2012 in the
amount of $49,000 and this was completed in April 2013. The original scope of the water project
was changed to increase the pipe size and tank size. The tank was originally estimated for 1 million
gallons and the pipe was a 12-inch main. The size needed, based on requirements of the Calpine
project, is a 1.5 million gallon tank and a 16-inch main. He explained that these factors, as well as
the soil condition, had resulted in a revised project estimate of $4,235,000.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 19
Mr. Koenig reminded members that the design of the wastewater facilities by Pennoni Associates,
Inc. was approved by City Council in September 2012 in an amount not to exceed $365,000 and
would be completed by August 2013. This firm was tasked with pump station design, analysis and
design of existing force main and gravity sewer, analysis and upgrade design to existing PS #5, and
abandonment and design of existing PS #14. He stated that in order to facilitate the tie into the
County system, it would be necessary for this project cost estimate to be increased to $3,224,200.
Mr. Koenig advised members that the streets and storm sewer design was close to completion by
Becker Morgan Group. He stated that, based on current information, staff anticipated this project
to be within the estimate of $2M.
Mr. Koenig explained that in order to cover the increased estimated costs of these projects, which
now totaled $9,459,200, staff had revised the CIP. If other funding sources were to become available
or actual costs were lower, he assured members that staff would replenish the projects affected by
priority of need. He reviewed the proposed revisions to Water/Wastewater Capital Improvement
Plans FY13 and FY14, as follows:
Current Revised
Project Estimate Estimate
GOTP - Water System Improvements - Bond $2,000,000 $4,235,000
Transfer Water Quality Improvements - FY13 250,000
Transfer Water Quality Improvements - FY14 905,000
Transfer Emergency Generators - FY14 80,000
Transfer - WW System Improvements - Bond - FY13 1,000,000
Total GOTP - Water System Improvements $4,235,000
GOTP - Wastewater System Improvements - Bond $2,000,000 $3,224,200
Transfer to GOTP - Water Infrastructure - FY13 (1,000,000)
Transfer Wastewater Impact Fees - FY14 1,000,000
Transfer Inflow Infiltration Improvements - FY14 1,013,800
Defer purchase of Jet Truck - FY14 210,400
Total GOTP - Wastewater System Improvements $3,224,200
Mr. Koenig indicated that the proposed amendments would contain the project costs within the
approved budget by deferring other system improvements until they could either be re-budgeted or
by moving money back into the projects through possible savings in other projects, additional
financing, etc. He explained that if the City were to seek State Revolving Funds and other means
of financing these projects, additional engineering studies would most likely be required, which
would jeopardize the timelines that had been discussed with Calpine and other new tenants. He
advised members that recently there had been a substantial increase in the level of interest in the Park
and, as a result, there had been several meetings with potential tenants.
Staff recommended approval of the Revised Capital Improvement Plan for FY14. Due to time
constraints, staff requested that this item be considered by City Council during the meeting being
held later in the evening.
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In response to Mr. Slavin, Mr. Koenig concurred that he had major concerns with deferring capital
improvement projects. In regard to staff’s request that this matter be considered by City Council
during the meeting scheduled for later in the evening, Mr. Koenig noted that the bids for the Garrison
Water Storage Tank would also be presented to City Council for consideration later in the evening
and, according to discussions with Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Treasurer/Controller, it would be necessary
to amend the CIP prior to taking action on the storage tank. He indicated that if approval for the CIP
amendments was not granted, no action would be taken on the storage tank.
Mr. Slavin relayed his concerns regarding the difference between the estimated and actual costs and
the difficult position Council was put in due to the statements and pronouncements made during the
budget hearings. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that he shared these concerns; however, he
reminded members that when Calpine comes on line, Calpine will become the City’s largest
customer and substantial revenues would be generated. He explained that the revenue generated by
the Calpine project would help fund additional projects in the future and that these revenues would
be realized in June 2015.
Responding to Mr. Slavin regarding the $1M in wastewater impact fees in FY14, Mrs. Mitchell
explained that the impact fee reserve for wastewater in the Water/Wastewater Five (5) Year Forecast
was $3.6M. These impact fees had been used for growth portions of projects, resulting in an amount
of $1.6M at the end of the five (5) years. She indicated that this amount was now at $600,000 since
another $1M would be taken for this project.
Mrs. Williams questioned if staff had contacted the State of Delaware regarding the possibility of
increasing Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) amounts paid by the State. Responding, Mr. Koenig
stated that staff had not discussed the possibility of an amendment to the amount of PILOT payments
from the State because it was his understanding that this was determined by a legislated formula.
Since the State would benefit greatly from the development of the Garrison Park, Mrs. Williams
urged staff to contact the Governor and local legislators regarding their financial assistance in this
matter. In regard to Calpine, Mr. Koenig stated that Calpine selected the Garrison Park for utility
and land planning reasons, explaining that the City had enough water and land, as well as appropriate
land use to serve them. He assured members that it was Calpine’s intent to make money.
Mr. Koenig assured members that staff was tasked with maintaining the current system as well as
growing the system. He explained that the City would need to make a choice and determine if the
project warranted the system being expanded in this way. In making this decision, he noted that
utility growth assists the City in spreading the burden of actual maintenance among more customers.
Responding to Mr. Slavin, Mr. Koenig stated that the related bids were received on June 27, 2013
and were valid for 90 days.
Mr. Hutchison reminded members that the Garrison Farm is owned by the City because of a $2M
gift from the State of Delaware.
Mr. Koenig stated that additional financing was not considered by staff because the five (5) year
forecasting models proposed to City Council did not include any additional debt service associated
with additional financing. The requested amendments would maintain the current debt service and
financing plans that had been presented to Council for the five (5) year projections.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 21
Responding to Mr. Perza, Mr. Koenig did not feel that members could earmark future revenues to
replace funds that would be transferred by deferring capital improvement projects. He suggested the
possibility of members taking such action during adoption of the City’s budget.
The Committee recommended approval of Revised Capital Improvement Plan for FY14 as
recommended by staff.
During the Council Meeting, Mr. Koenig reviewed the material that was provided, reviewed, and
discussed by the Committee during their meeting held earlier in the evening.
In response to Mr. Hutchison, Mr. Koenig stated that at this point, the City had expended a total of
$400,000 for infrastructure improvements.
Mrs. Williams moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation for approval of the
Revised Capital Improvement Plan for FY14, as recommended by staff. The motion was
seconded by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a roll call vote of six (6) yes (Dixon, Perza,
Williams, Hare, Hutchison, and Bonar), two (2) no (Lynn and Slavin), and one (1) absent
(Anderson).
Mrs. Williams moved for acceptance of the Utility Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Hare
and unanimously carried.
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE REPORT -
JULY 22, 2013
The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee met on July 22, 2013 with Chairman Lynn
presiding. Except for the following time sensitive issue, the Committee Report from July 22, 2013
will be presented to Council during their Regular Meeting of August 12, 2013 for review and
consideration.
Proposed Amendment to Pricing for Sale of Garrison Oak Technology Park Lots
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, reminded members that in June 2013, Council authorized him to
negotiate land prices at Garrison Oak Technology Park at a beginning price of $35,000 per acre and
to decrease that price by up to $5,000 per acre, which would result in a net price of $30,000 per acre.
He stated that the proposed amendment to the pricing for sale of the Garrison Oak Technology Park
lots was the result of a meeting at the Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO) on
July 10, 2013. He advised members that at that time he, along with Mayor Carey and
Mr. Bill Neaton, Economic Development Director, met with a company that was interested in the
Garrison Farm. He stated that, as the discussion progressed, the potential buyer requested a
substantial reduction in the per acre land price, which he was not authorized to grant. As a result,
it was suggested that the matter be presented to the Committee for review and recommendation and
that it be immediately forwarded to City Council in order to provide the company with an answer.
Mr. Koenig advised members that the interested buyer is a manufacturing company which originated
overseas and now wishes to expand their American market. They were interested in purchasing
approximately 10 acres of the Garrison Farm in order to build an $8M-$10M facility that would
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 22
initially propose to create 15 jobs with the intent to increase to 23 jobs. He stated that the facility
would become the hub of their manufacturing facility for the area. He indicated that, as discussions
progressed, the company requested that the land be provided free of charge, which he had no
authorization to grant.
Staff recommended that the City Manager be granted additional latitude in the negotiation process
to work with the company if it was the opinion of members that this could prove beneficial in
moving forward.
Responding to Mr. Hare, Mr. Koenig stated that representatives of the company would not disclose
the other areas that the City is competing against. He stated that the State of Delaware had offered
several incentive packages regarding workforce development and that Kent County and the City
provide tax abatements. He stated that, ultimately, the question was if the City would consider
giving free land if other sites high on this company’s list were doing so, or if the City would
significantly reduce the price of the land.
Should the City choose to provide the land essentially free, Mr. Koenig stated that it would take the
City approximately 20 years to recover that value through taxation; however, the land was
transferred to the City from the State and the City had no mortgage on the land. Also, the City was
in the process of developing the infrastructure for the land and the request would provide the City
an additional tenant. He explained that if approved, a transfer document must be prepared that
would guarantee that the land would not transfer until the company obtained a building permit and
began construction.
Mr. Hare suggested that an additional clause be included in the transfer document indicating that if
the company did not remain at the site for 20 years, the property and all improvements would revert
back to the City.
Responding to Mr. Slavin, Mr. Koenig explained that, in accordance with the Freedom of
Information Act, this matter did not qualify for discussion in executive session since the strategy
session was in relation to the sale of property and not the acquisition. He concurred that it puts the
City in a terrible position as it relates to negotiations since all information is made public.
In response to Mr. Lynn, Mr. Koenig confirmed that the lots were appraised by Mr. Phil McGinnis,
McGinnis Commercial Real Estate Company, and Mr. Charlie Rodriguez, R & R Commercial
Realty, who estimated its worth at between $32,000 and $33,000 per acre. He stated that the total
gift value of the property would be approximately $330,000. Representatives of the company had
indicated an intent to fill the jobs that would be created with local talent. He stated that there was
no discussion regarding the jobs that would be provided in the construction of the facility.
Mr. Lynn indicated that he would be more receptive to the request if staff included in the negotiation
process that it be mandatory to use local construction companies, local workers, etc.
Mr. Koenig assured members that the final sale (contract) would require Council’s approval.
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Mr. Shevock suggested the possibility of negotiating a 20-year lease rather than giving the company
the land, with the option to purchase after the 20 years. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that owning
the land had been one of the company’s criteria.
Responding to Council President Bonar, Mr. Koenig stated that any revenues derived from water and
sewer would be minimal, explaining that the company was a very low utility user and manufactured
a “dry” product.
The Committee recommended that the City Manager be authorized to negotiate the sale of the lots
at Garrison Oak Technology Park within any parameter he chooses, with the stipulation that the
result will require final approval of City Council.
Mr. Hare moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Hutchison.
Mr. Hare reiterated that the final sale (contract) must be presented to City Council for final approval
and that the motion would simply allow the City Manager to negotiate without limitations.
Mr. Slavin reiterated his feeling that since the discussion was regarding the sale of property, any
discussion would be exempt from public session in accordance with FOIA. Responding, City
Solicitor Rodriguez indicated that since the matter involved negotiating a price, he was not sure if
it would qualify to be discussed in executive session.
Mr. Lynn reiterated his desire for staff to include in the negotiation process that it be mandatory that
the jobs created as a result of the facility be filled with local Kent County/Dover residents and that
the contractors used to build the facility, such as electricians, plumbers, etc., be Dover/Kent County
companies.
Mr. Slavin suggested that the lower the selling price, the more claw back should be included in the
contract to protect the City’s interest.
The motion to approve the Committee’s recommendation authorizing the City Manager to
negotiate the sale of the lots at Garrison Oak Technology Park within any parameter he
chooses, with the stipulation that the result will require final approval of City Council was
carried by a roll call vote of seven (7) yes (Dixon, Lynn, Slavin, Williams, Hare, Hutchison, and
Bonar), one (1) no (Perza), and one (1) absent (Anderson).
QUARTERLY REVENUE REPORT
Members were provided the Revenue Report as of June 30, 2013 (preliminary).
By consent agenda, Mr. Slavin moved for acceptance of the Quarterly Revenue Report as of
June 30, 2013 (preliminary), seconded by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a unanimous roll call
vote (Anderson absent).
EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS - GARRISON WATER STORAGE TANK (1.5 MG)
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, advised members that the Garrison Water Storage Tank Project
proposes designing and installing a new one and one-half million gallon (1.5 MG) elevated water
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 24
storage tank. This new well, located within Garrison Oak Technical Park, will be a primarily used
for the forthcoming tenants in the park. He indicated that the tank will provide water necessary for
demand and fire protection in the general area east of Delaware Route 1. He advised members that
Staff decided to utilize a design/build method to construct this elevated water storage tank,
explaining that the contractors will be responsible for submitting designs that meet the requirements
outlined in the Request for Proposals (RFP #13-0037DPW), as well as all applicable regulations.
The specific work for this project includes the design and construction of a new 1.5 MG composite
elevated water storage tank and associated piping valves, appurtenances, excavation, backfill, testing,
startup, paving, fencing, and site restoration.
Mr. Koenig advised members that four (4) proposals were received, which were reviewed and
analyzed, with one (1) of the proposers withdrawing their submission in accordance with the City’s
purchasing policy. Based on the average score of the evaluations, as well as the proposed cost, staff
recommended awarding the contract to CB & I, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $3,487,660.
Responding to Mr. Lynn, Mr. Koenig stated that although the Water Storage Tank will primarily
serve Calpine, since they will be the largest customer, it will serve the needs of the entire City based
on the ability to provide elevated water storage for fire protection, as well as system pressure.
Calpine will contribute impact fees that are capped at 100 EDU’s and will be paying water revenues
associated with their use. Mr. Koenig explained that if this water tank were not provided, Calpine’s
water use would drain the City.
Mr. Slavin stated that although he was not in opposition to this particular project or Calpine and felt
that they would prove beneficial to the City, he could not justify voting in favor of the
recommendation after taking the position he took on the City’s budget regarding future expenses.
Mrs. Williams moved for approval of staff’s recommendation to award the contract to CB&I,
Inc., in response to RFP #13-0037DPW, for an amount not to exceed $3,487,660. The motion
was seconded by Mr. Hutchison and carried by a roll call vote of seven (7) yes (Dixon, Perza,
Williams, Hare, Hutchison, and Bonar), two (2) no (Lynn and Slavin), and one (1) absent
(Anderson).
EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS - JANITORIAL SERVICES AT SPECIFIC CITY
BUILDINGS
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, explained that the Facilities Management Division of the
Department of Public Works is responsible for custodial services at the Electric Department (Buttner
Place), J.W. Pitts Center (Electric Avenue), Public Works (William Street), Weyandt Hall (Reed
Street), City Hall (Loockerman Plaza) and the Library (Loockerman Plaza). He noted that the
FY 2013 budget included five (5) custodians to service these locations; however, during the year,
two (2) of the five (5) custodians resigned and/or retired. Due to this staffing shortage, it was
decided to contract out custodial services for the City buildings located outside of the downtown
campus. The proposal for these services was advertised to the public as a Request for Proposal
(RFP #13-0035PW).
Mr. Koenig advised members that four (4) proposals were received, which were reviewed and
analyzed. Based on the average score of the evaluations, which included evaluation of the proposed
cost, staff recommended awarding the contract to Mid-Atlantic Services, A-Team Corp. in the
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 25
amount of $51,115.96. (It was noted that staff’s recommendation the Action Form incorrectly
reflected an amount of $51,108.00, rather than $51,115.96.) The contract would cover the 44 weeks
necessary to complete work this fiscal year at the proposed locations of the Electric Department,
John W. Pitts Recreation Center, and Public Works well as vacation coverage or similar for internal
custodial staff at City Hall, the Library, and Weyandt Hall.
Responding to Mr. Perza, Mr. Koenig stated that by outsourcing these custodial services, the City
would save over $40,000 per person (considering salary and benefits). He confirmed that by
outsourcing, two (2) vacant positions had been excluded from the City’s current budget.
In response to concerns of Mr. Dixon, Mr. Koenig assured members that no employees would be
losing their jobs as a result of this contract and that the other three (3) custodians would remain
employed by the City.
Mr. Hare moved for approval of staff’s recommendation to award the contract to Mid-Atlantic
Services, A-Team Corp., in response to RFP #13-0035PW, in the amount of $51,115.96 for
FY 2014. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Williams and carried by a unanimous roll call
vote (Anderson absent).
REAPPOINTMENT RECOMMENDED BY MAYOR CAREY - ETHICS COMMISSION -
THOMAS C. JACKSON - FIVE-YEAR TERM TO EXPIRE JULY 31, 2018
Mayor Carey recommended the reappointment of Mr. Thomas C. Jackson to serve on the Ethics
Commission for a five-year term to expire July 31, 2018.
By consent agenda, Mr. Slavin moved for approval of the reappointment of
Mr. Thomas C. Jackson, as recommended by Mayor Carey. The motion was seconded by
Mr. Hutchison and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Anderson absent).
REZONING REQUEST/FIRST READING OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2013-12 -
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1570 N. DUPONT HIGHWAY, OWNED BY KW LANDS
Mrs. Ann Marie Townsend, Director of Planning and Community Development, advised members
that a request was received to rezone property located at 1570 N. Dupont Highway (west side of
North Dupont Highway, east of Crawford Carroll Avenue, and north of but not adjacent to
Rustic Lane), consisting of 12.6127+/- acres, owned by KW Lands. The property is currently zoned
RC (Recreation and Commercial) and C-4 (Highway Commercial) with a portion subject to the
SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone). The proposed zoning is IO (Institutional and
Office) with a portion subject to the SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone). (TAX PARCEL
ED-05-057.00-01-05.00-000; PLANNING REFERENCE Z-13-01; COUNCIL DISTRICT 4).
Mrs. Townshend indicated that this property was known as the Sheraton Hotel. She stated that
Delaware State University had entered into a lease and that the current RC zoning classification did
not permit the University use; therefore, this rezoning request was being brought forward as a part
of that transition.
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In response to Mr. Perza, Mrs. Townshend stated that the rezoning request included the Hampton
Inn property. She explained that the IO zoning classification allowed for hotels and, currently, the
property was split zoned. In discussions with the applicant, staff felt it would be better to have one
(1) zoning classification for the entire block rather than a “hodgepodge.”
Prior to amending the zoning ordinances and zoning map of the City of Dover, a public hearing is
required.
By motion of Mr. Hare, seconded by Mr. Hutchison, Council unanimously referred the request
to the Planning Commission on August 19, 2013 and set a public hearing before City Council
on September 9, 2013 at 7:30 p.m.
In accordance with Section 1-9 of the Dover Code, Council acknowledged the First Reading of
Proposed Ordinance #2013-12 as read by the City Clerk, by title only, as follows:
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY
OF DOVER BY CHANGING THE ZONING DESIGNATION OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT
1570 NORTH DUPONT HIGHWAY
REZONING REQUEST/FIRST READING OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2013-13 -
PROPERTY KNOWN AS WALKER WOODS AND WALKER WOODS PHASE 2
LOCATED AT 28-152 HARMONY LANE, 3-9 KLEIN COURT, AND 1357-1383 WALKER
ROAD, OWNED BY WALKER WOODS PROPERTIES, LLC AND MILFORD HOUSING
DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, advised members
that a request was received to rezone property known as Walker Woods and Walker Woods Phase 2
Located at 28-152 Harmony Lane, 3-9 Klein Court, and 1357-1383 Walker Road (north side of
Walker Road adjoining Harmony Lane), consisting of 9.0722+/- acres, owned by Walker Woods
Properties, LLC and Milford Housing Development Corporation. The property is currently zoned
RG-3 (Group Housing) and ROS (Recreational and Open Space). The proposed zoning is RG-2
(General Residence). (TAX PARCELS ED-05-067.18-01-12 THROUGH ED-05-067.18-01-45 AND ED-05-067.18-01-47
THROUGH ED-05-067.18-01-66.01; PLANNING REFERENCE Z-13-02; COUNCIL DISTRICT 4).
Mrs. Townshend stated that Walker Road Phase 2 consisted of individual lots and townhouses and
that Milford Housing Development Corporation was requesting flexibility to potentially convert
some properties into apartments, explaining that it was their desire to totally redevelop the area. She
advised members that although the RG-3 zoning classification allowed for group housing, it is
specific to townhouses, which would not allow for the apartment-style units.
Responding to Mrs. Williams, Mrs. Townshend stated that the Milford Housing Development
Corporation conducted work statewide in an effort to provide affordable housing to individuals. She
explained that the Corporation was not a Housing Authority but rather a non-profit housing provider.
In response to Mr. Perza, Mrs. Townshend stated that if the rezoning request were approved, the
Milford Housing Development Corporation would bring forward a site plan to the Planning
Commission which may involve some demolition as well as the use of some of the units. She stated
that the individual lots are owned by Walker Woods Properties, LLC, explaining that it was
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 27
subdivided several years ago with the intent of selling lots; however, that did not occur. She assured
members that the signatures of all property owners are required for rezoning requests.
Prior to amending the zoning ordinances and zoning map of the City of Dover, a public hearing is
required.
By motion of Mr. Dixon, seconded by Mr. Slavin, Council unanimously referred the request
to the Planning Commission on August 19, 2013 and set a public hearing before City Council
on September 9, 2013 at 7:30 p.m.
In accordance with Section 1-9 of the Dover Code, Council acknowledged the First Reading of
Proposed Ordinance #2013-13 as read by the City Clerk, by title only, as follows:
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY
OF DOVER BY CHANGING THE ZONING DESIGNATION OF PROPERTY KNOWN AS
WALKER WOODS AND WALKER WOODS PHASE 2 LOCATED AT 4 28-152 HARMONY
LANE, 3-9 KLEIN COURT, AND 1357-1383 WALKER ROAD
FIRST READING - PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2013-11
Council President Bonar reminded the public that copies of the proposed ordinance were available
at the entrance of the Council Chambers or could be obtained from the City Clerk's Office. Final
action by Council on the proposed ordinance would take place during the Council Meeting of
August 12, 2013.
Mr. Lynn reminded members that proposed Ordinance #2013-11 would reduce the number of
sponsors required for an ordinance from three (3) to two (2) and would remove Council-appointed
staff from the exceptions.
In accordance with Section 1-9 of the Dover Code, Council acknowledged the First Reading of the
Ordinance as read by the City Clerk, by title only, as follows:
PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2013-11 AMENDING CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS,
SECTION 1-9 - SPONSORING, CONSIDERATION, PASSAGE AND EFFECTIVE DATE OF
ORDINANCES AND CHARTER AMENDMENTS, SUBSECTION (C) - SPONSORS
FINAL READING - PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2013-10
The First Reading of Proposed Ordinance #2013-10 was accomplished during the Council Meeting
of July 8, 2013.
Proposed Ordinance #2013-10 Amending Chapter 2 - Administration, Article IV - Officers and
Employees, Division 7 - General Employee Pension Plan, Section 2-331 - Form of Benefits
(Civil Marriage)
Mr. Lynn moved that the Final Reading of the proposed ordinance be acknowledged by title
only, seconded by Mr. Dixon and unanimously carried.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 28
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, reminded members that Proposed Ordinance #2013-10 would
amend the Dover Code to allow for spouses and children of civil marriage as eligible survivors of
pension participants. He stated that these amendments were required to comply with State law.
Essentially, he stated that the amendment replaces “civil union” language with “civil marriage”
language.
By motion of Mr. Slavin, seconded by Mr. Lynn, Council adopted Ordinance #2013-10 by a
roll call vote of six (6) yes (Dixon, Lynn, Slavin, Williams, Hare, and Bonar), two (2) no ( Perza
and Hutchison), and one (1) absent (Anderson), as follows:
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN
COUNCIL MET:
That Chapter 2 - Administration, Article IV - Officers and Employees, Division 7 - General
Employee Pension Plan, Section 2-331 - Form of Benefits, be amended to read as follows:
Sec. 2-331. - Form of benefits.
(a) Normal form. A monthly benefit shall be payable on the first day of the second month
preceding the date on which application for such benefit is filed. Payment will be retroactive
to the retirement date. Payments of benefits shall be payable monthly thereafter during his
lifetime, and terminating with the last payment on the first day of the month of the death of
the participant.
(b) Death of participant, etc. Upon the death of a participant who has retired, or who is eligible
to be retired under any of the provisions of this division, payment shall be made to his
eligible survivors in the amount of 50 percent of the monthly payments to which the
participant was or would have been entitled. Upon the death of a participant who has
completed a minimum of 20 years of service but is not yet eligible to retire because of age,
payment shall be made to his eligible survivors in the amount of 50 percent of the monthly
payment that would have resulted by using his service time; however, the benefit is to be
computed at a reduced rate of one-half percent for each month the participant was under the
correct age for normal retirement. In no instance shall actual monthly payments be less than
$200.00, to be effective July 1, 2000. Upon the death of both the participant and eligible
survivor, if the benefit payments received in aggregate are less than the member's
contributions, the balance of the member's contributions, plus 5 percent interest, will be paid
to the surviving beneficiary designated or his estate if no designation has been made and
submitted to the pension board. The amount of benefit payments received and the amount
of the member's contributions shall be determined from the record of the pension board of
trustees
(c) Eligible survivor. An eligible survivor shall be one of the following in the order of preference
listed:
(1) Spouse. The participant's spouse who was married to the participant for at least one
year. Surviving spouse shall be required to provide supporting documents of
marriage.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 29
(2) Children, unmarried.
a. The surviving children, biological or legally adopted, of the participant, who
have not attained their 18th birthday.
b. If said child is attending school on a full-time basis and provides proof of
attendance each year of eligibility, with the payment due for the month in
which he ceases to attend school on a full-time basis or with the payment due
for the month in which his 22nd birthday shall occur, whichever shall occur
first.
(d) Commencement of payment. Benefits payable to eligible survivors shall commence on the
first day of the month following the date of the participant's death.
(e) Benefits payable. Benefits payable to eligible survivors shall cease:
(1) Spouse. With respect to an eligible survivor who is a spouse, with the payment due
for the month in which their remarriage or death shall occur, whichever occurs first.
(2) Children. With respect to an eligible survivor who is a child(ren), with the payment
due for the month in which his 18th birthday or death shall occur, whichever shall
occur first. Payments shall be made in accordance with subsections (2)a. and b.
(f) Eligibility for benefits. The eligibility of any person or persons to receive payment of benefits
as an eligible survivor shall be determined conclusively by the pension board based on
application of such person or persons and any other information which the pension board
deems to be appropriate.
ADOPTED: JULY 22, 2013
COUNCIL MEMBERS’ ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Slavin thanked Mrs. Mitchell for the submission of the Quarterly Revenue Report, which was
accepted by Council earlier in the evening. Noting that the amounts provided were preliminary, he
stated that if the numbers provided had been the current figures, the City would have completed last
fiscal year short by $600,000 (of the City’s estimate) and begin the current fiscal year short by
$1.3M. Until these numbers are finalized, Mr. Slavin requested that the report be provided to
Council monthly rather than quarterly so that members are kept abreast of this issue.
Mr. Perza relayed appreciation to City staff for the job conducted during the rain event last week.
He stated that he received many calls from residents with concerns regarding flooding and water
issues. Although the residents were frustrated due to the amount of rain, they were very pleased with
the City’s response.
Mr. Dixon thanked City Council for providing the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement
Committee the opportunity to reconsider the future use of the Dover Park Recreation Center.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 22, 2013 PAGE 30
Referring to his recent appointment as the Public Advocate for the State of Delaware, Mr. Bonar
indicated that he would continue to serve as Council President. He announced that he would not
seek re-election and that this would be his last term serving as a member of City Council.
By unanimous consent, the meeting adjourned at 9:02 p.m.
TRACI A. McDOWELL
CITY CLERK
All orders, ordinances, and resolutions adopted by City Council during their Regular Meeting of
July 22, 2013, are hereby approved.
CARLETON E. CAREY, SR.
MAYOR
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