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CITY OF DOVER PLANNING COMMISSION
REVISED AGENDA
Monday, July 15, 2013 – 7:00 P.M.
City Hall Council Chambers
15 Loockerman Plaza, Dover, Delaware
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
1) Application S-13-16 Mitten Industrial Park at Lafferty Lane: Master Plan previously
noticed for this meeting will not be heard on July 15, 2013 as project design work
continues. It will be scheduled for a future meeting of the Planning Commission and will
be subject to the Public Notice requirements at that time.
2) Application SB-13-04 Lands of John & Dorothea Link and Bradley Holden at 186-188
Pennsylvania Avenue: Minor Subdivision Plan will not be heard on July 15, 2013 due to
inadequate Public Notice. This application will be rescheduled for the August 19, 2013
meeting and will be subject to Public Notice requirements.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING of June 17, 2013
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
1) Reminder: The next Planning Commission regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 19,
2013 at 7:00pm in the City Council Chambers.
2) Report on City Council actions
a. Re-appointment to Planning Commission for Three (3) Year Terms to Expire June 1,
2016: Kathleen Still – At-Large and John H. Baldwin, Sr. – Fourth District
3) Welcome to new Planning Commission Member: Edgar C. Cregar, Jr. – Fourth District
4) Update on Planning activities
OPENING REMARKS CONCERNING DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS
OLD BUSINESS
1) Requests for Extensions of Planning Commission Approval: None
2) Re-evaluation of Conditional Use:
a) C-12-05 Transitional Housing for Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing, Inc. at 319 West
Water Street – Re-evaluation of a Conditional Use Plan approved by Planning Commission
on July 16, 2012 to allow for the establishment of a philanthropic use consisting of
transitional housing in an existing single family residence. The parcel is zoned C-1A
(Limited Commercial Zone) and is subject to SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Zone) Tier
3 – Excellent Recharge Area. The property is exempt from the requirements of the SWPOZ
Tier 3 as the site is located within the Downtown Redevelopment Target Area. The
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City of Dover Planning Commission REVISED Agenda
Public Hearing: July 15, 2013
Page 2 of 3
property is located on the north side of West Water Street in the block between South Queen
Street and South New Street. The owner of the property is Mockfaul, LLC and the lessee is
Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing, Inc. Address: 319 West Water Street. Tax Parcel:
ED05-077.09-03-05.00-000. Council District 2. Re-evaluation of this Application will be
postponed until the August 19, 2013 meeting of the Commission to allow for completion of
the property inspection and report of findings.
NEW BUSINES
1) Resolution honoring Ronald Shomo for his service on the Planning Commission
2) Nomination and Election of Officers (Chairman and Vice-Chairman)
3) Appointment of the Architectural Review Oversight Subcommittee of Planning Commission
(in accordance with Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 §2.28)
NEW DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS
1) C-13-04 Lands of G & J Holdings, LLC at 1-3 and 9 West Loockerman Street – Public Hearing
and Review of a Conditional Use to establish an office use on the first floor within the existing
building. The property is zoned C-2 (Central Commercial Zone) and is subject to the H
(Historic District Zone). The property is located at the northwest corner of West Loockerman
Street and South State Street. The owner of record is G & J Holdings, LLC. Address: 1-3 West
Loockerman Street and 9 West Loockerman Street. Tax Parcel: ED-05-077.09-02-59.00-000.
Council District 2.
2) SB-13-03 Lands of KW Lands at 1570 North DuPont Highway: Minor Subdivision Plan –
Public Hearing and Review of a Minor Subdivision to create three (3) parcels of land and right-
of-way from the existing 11.258 acre +/- parcel. The parcel will be subdivided into a 2.195 acre
+/- parcel, a 2.018 acre +/- parcel, and a 6.002 acre +/- parcel. The plan also proposes the
designation of a 60 ft. right-of-way along KW Boulevard for public use (1.043 acre +/- area).
The property is zoned RC (Recreational and Commercial Zone), C-4 (Highway Commercial
Zone) and a portion is subject to the SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone) Tier 3 –
Excellent Recharge Area. The property is located west side of North DuPont Highway and east
of Crawford Carroll Avenue and north of but not adjacent to Rustic Lane. The owner of record
is KW Lands. Address: 1570 North DuPont Highway. Tax Parcel: ED-05-057.00-01-05.00-
000. Council District 4. Note: An amended D.A.C. Report has been issued for SB-13-03.
3) SB-13-04 Lands of John & Dorothea Link and Bradley Holden at 186-188 Pennsylvania
Avenue: Minor Subdivision Plan – Public Hearing and Review of a Minor Subdivision to
allow for the creation of two (2) parcels of land. The subdivision would create a 4,831+/- SF
parcel of land and a 3,868 +/- SF parcel of land. There is currently an existing duplex on the
one parcel of land. The subdivision will divide the parcel placing each unit of the duplex onto
a separate parcel of land. The property is zoned RG-1 (General Residence Zone). The
property is located on the west side of Pennsylvania Avenue north of Delaware Avenue. The
owners of record are John & Dorothea Link and Bradley Holden. Addresses: 186-188
Pennsylvania Avenue. Tax Parcels: ED-05-077.05-02-03.00-000 and ED-05-077.05-02-
03.01-000. The Board of Adjustment approved variances for this site at their meeting on June
19, 2013 (Application V-13-08).
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City of Dover Planning Commission REVISED Agenda
Public Hearing: July 15, 2013
Page 3 of 3
ADJOURN
THE AGENDA ITEMS MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED IN SEQUENCE. THIS AGENDA IS SUBJECT TO
CHANGE TO INCLUDE THE ADDITION OR THE DELETION OF ITEMS, INCLUDING EXECUTIVE
SESSIONS.
Posted Agenda: July 5, 2013 at 9:00am.
Revised Agenda Posted: July 12, 2013 at 9:00am
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CITY OF DOVER PLANNING COMMISSION JUNE 17, 2013
NEW BUSINESS
NEW DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION
1) MI-13-10 Nottingham Meadows: Revised Active Recreation Area – Public Hearing and Review of
revisions to the Active Recreation Area for the Nottingham Meadows Subdivision. The Revised
Active Recreation Area is to eliminate the proposed pool and clubhouse and then provide cash in-lieu
payment for the Active Recreation Area. The plan also includes a Parcel Consolidation & Lot Line
Adjustment Plan to expunge 105 lots and reconfigure 11 lots. The property is zoned R-8 (One Family
Residence Zone) and a portion is subject to SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone) Tier 3 –
Excellent Recharge Area. The subdivision is located on the south side of Hazlettville Road and west
of Wyoming Mill Road. The owner of record is Siobain-VI, LLC. Address: Nottingham Subdivision.
Council District 2.
Representatives: Mr. Mike Riemann, Becker Morgan Group; Mr. John Canuso, Tradition Homes
Ms. Cornwell stated that this application is for a revision to the Active Recreation Area for the
Nottingham Meadows Subdivision. Planning Staff notes that there is a Parcel Consolidation Plan and
a Lot Line Adjustment Plan that are being reviewed administratively by Staff and they do not require
any Commission approval. The comments for this application have been combined into one report but
the only thing Planning Commission needs to review and approve tonight are the revisions to the
Active Recreation Area. Based on their Administrative Plan for a Parcel Consolidation, they are
proposing to have one hundred eight (108) residential lots which will require 29,700 SF of Active
Recreation Area on the site. That is 275 SF per dwelling lot. Based on their application, they are
proposing to do cash in-lieu instead of the Active Recreation Area. The original approved subdivision
included a clubhouse and swimming pool to be located near Brittingham Drive and Wellington
Avenue. What they are proposing to do is leave a little over 12,000 SF of a passive open space and
instead of the clubhouse and swimming pool, do the cash in-lieu payment. Their argument is that they
are in a close proximity to Schutte Park that provides recreation for the area.
Ms. Cornwell further stated that Staff has made multiple recommendations regarding the application.
One recommendation is that if they do get this application approved that they provide the rest of the
sidewalk along Hazlettville Road to provide the pedestrian access. Staff also notes that the Parks,
Recreation and Community Enhancement Committee of the Council reviewed and made a
recommendation of approval of the cash in-lieu option at their June 10, 2013 meeting. In the DAC
packet, there was a copy of the Parks, Recreation and Community Enhancement Staff Report that also
made a series of recommendations. One of which was if the cash in-lieu payment is approved, that it
is based on an appraisal that the applicant will need to provide to the City so that the calculation can be
done for the amount of cash in-lieu that will be accepted, as well as the sidewalk connection. There
were a number of other agencies that did provide comments. For example, the Public Works
Department, DelDOT, the Kent Conservation District and the Planning Office.
Mr. Riemann stated that Nottingham Meadows was recorded in 2006 as a two hundred eleven (211) lot
single family development. The original project has about 59,000 SF or active open space which was
required based on the two hundred eleven (211) lots at that time. In that active open space was a
clubhouse and pool amenity. Since then, there has been one of the worst housing crashes in recent
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history. The project currently sits today with about half of the project developed in terms of land area
and about sixty eight (68) lots that have actually been developed in the front half of the development.
Since that time, the property has been foreclosed on and the bank does own this development. Mr.
Canuso is the contract purchaser looking to move the development forward and what they are
presenting tonight is a plan to continue to move this project forward and get it finished. As Ms.
Cornwell stated, their proposal is to now provide for a cash in-lieu for the active open space based on
what is now the required active open space based on one hundred eight (108) lots. The total
subdivision will go from two hundred eleven (211) to one hundred eight (108) lots because the rear
portion of the project is going to be expunged. All of the lots will be consolidated and sold to a farmer
and it will go back to agricultural land. There is already a farmer lined up to take that portion of the
property forward. The project would still include the portion of Wellington Avenue. That road
would be completed as part of this project which would help complete the front half of the
development. Essentially, everything from half of the development towards Hazlettville Road would
be finished and everything from the half of the development back, would go back to an agricultural
preservation. The purpose for the modification to the active open space is simple. The development at
one hundred eight (108) lots does not work with a clubhouse and pool in the development. The
financial numbers do not work for that particular instance and makes this project a viable project to
move forward. The active open space that will be required based on one hundred eight (108) lots is
29,700SF. The cash in-lieu calculation would be done in accordance with the City of Dover Code and
there are very detailed criteria, which they would follow. They do agree to finish the sidewalk along
Hazlettville Road. As everyone is aware, the new Wyoming Mill Road re-alignment is now finished.
As part of that project there are actually pedestrian crosswalks and lights and there is some sidewalk
there but it does not connect to the sidewalk at the entrance to Nottingham Meadows. This is
something that the applicant would finish and they think that this is a reasonable request given the fact
that their cash in-lieu payment would go to Parks and Recreation. Given the proximity of Schutte
Park, they think that makes sense so they agree with that Staff recommendation.
Mr. Riemann further stated that the developer has met with a number of property owners in the
development. They have also received a Petition which was signed by twenty eight (28) property
owners within the development. So they have had a meeting with some of the property owners to
explain the project to them and get their support. In addition to the property owners in the petition,
they have also met with the property owner that is directly adjacent to the active recreation space,
which he is present this evening and will more than likely speak. The design that Ms. Cornwell was
referencing, which has a small amount of passive open space about 12,000 SF between this particular
property owner’s lot and the two (2) new lots that are in the new open space, were at the request of this
property owner who wanted to see a passive buffer between his lot and the new adjacent lots within the
active open space. As Ms. Cornwell mentioned, they did receive a positive recommendation from the
Parks, Recreation and Community Enhancement Committee at the last hearing. So in summary, these
changes are really a path forward for this project. It allows the project to be finished to a more
complete subdivision, allows the project to be turned over to the Homeowners Association as opposed
to sitting the way that it is today. There really is no Homeowners Association that is legally defined
for the subdivision so that allows this process to happen. It allows the remaining lots in the
development to be completed which is obviously important for the community.
Colonel Welsh questioned the area to the south that will be returned to farmland for agricultural use,
will that land be leased to a farmer or a sale of property? Responding to Colonel Welsh, Mr. Riemann
stated that it would be a sale of property.
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Colonel Welsh questioned if Mr. Riemann and the developer were in agreement with the DAC
comments and the stipulations set forth in the petition? Responding to Colonel Welsh, Mr. Riemann
stated yes.
Mr. Tolbert questioned if the lots shown on the diagram of the subdivision with dots were properties
that have houses built on them but have not been sold? Responding to Mr. Tolbert, Mr. Riemann
stated no, those lots have houses on them and have all been sold.
Mr. Holt questioned if the Homeowners Association could be formed after this application was
approved? Responding to Mr. Holt, Mr. Riemann stated yes, this process will allow that to happen and
the HOA exists but has not been turned over to the residents.
Mr. Tolbert questioned if they have talked to the homeowners about the Homeowners Association and
are they willing to the accept responsibility? Responding to Mr. Tolbert, Mr. Canuso stated that the
underlying documents that form the Homeowners Association are recorded on each of the properties.
One of the things they mentioned when meeting with some of the residents from the neighborhood was
that they are trying to make it so that the cost to maintain the property and to run the association would
be as minimal as possible. Putting a clubhouse and a swimming pool there would make it ridiculously
expensive for these one hundred eight (108) homeowners to maintain. As of now, what they are
proposing is a landscape maintenance fee to maintain the entrance way and the remaining small
passive recreation area. He does not have figures but it would be a minimal expense on a monthly or
yearly basis.
Dr. Jones stated that there were thirty (30) out of sixty eight (68) responses. She questioned what
attempts have been made to contact all owners in the development? Responding to Dr. Jones, Mr.
Cansuo stated that they reached out to a couple of the residents. Mrs. Townshend had given them
names of a couple of the residents. They had a preliminary meeting at the site and kind of tasked them
to reach out to the community. These residents did hold a meeting with the community to talk about
the plan that was being proposed. He has received one email from a resident who was concerned and
who was still in favor of the clubhouse and the swimming pool. The main focus of the meeting with
the five residents that he met with was that they were adamant that they did not want this clubhouse or
swimming pool. The cost associated with maintaining that under Homeowners Association would be
thousands of dollars instead of a hundred dollars a year.
Dr. Jones further questioned if they did it discuss with the residents, the Homeowners Association?
Responding to Dr. Jones, Mr. Cansuo stated that he discussed it with five residents.
Dr. Jones further questioned if the cost of a Homeowners Association was discussed? Responding to
Dr. Jones, Mr. Cansuo stated no, generalized conversations about the cost of landscape maintenance
were discussed but only with five residents.
Ms. Still asked for clarification on the numbers for the Active Recreation Area of 29,700 SF and the
passive open space of 33,076 SF. Responding to Ms. Still, Mr. Riemann stated that the 29,700 SF is
based on the City’s requirement for one hundred eight (108) lots times 275 SF. That is the required
active open space which they would be proposing a cash in-lieu to supplement that requirement.
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Ms. Still questioned the additional 33,076 SF? Responding to Ms. Still, Mr. Riemann stated that it is
just passive open space that exists but they do not get any credit for that, it does not go towards any
requirement.
Mr. Ambruso questioned how many lots were already sold? Responding to Mr. Ambruso, Mr.
Riemann stated that there were sixty eight (68) occupied lots.
Mr. Ambruso stated that when these people who bought the sixty-eight (68) lots, they bought because
they were told that there would be this Active Recreation Area. So they had a reasonable expectation
of being confronted with expenses of maintain a clubhouse and pool. Responding to Mr. Ambruso,
Mr. Riemann stated that this was a fair assumption. The clubhouse and pool was part of the approved
plan so that is part of the subdivision. It was part of the subdivision when the residents purchased their
lots.
Mr. Ambruso questioned if Mr. Riemann thought the residents saw the clubhouse and pool as a plus
when purchasing their lots? Responding to Mr. Ambruso, Mr. Riemann stated the Commission would
hear from some residents who think it’s a plus and maybe some residents who think it’s not, which is
why we are here tonight for this public process to allow that discussion to occur because they do want
to make a change to that amenity that was part of the public plan.
Colonel Welsh opened a public hearing.
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that there were two items received by email. One email is dated June 3,
2013 from the property owner at 228 Saxondale Lane, Venkat Subramaniyam. In the email, it states
that the person is strongly opposed to the conversion and reduction of the open space that is currently
proposed. They wanted their opposition to be recorded as part of this discussion. They note that with
growing cities, open spaces are a rarity and request the help to preserve all open spaces. The second
email is dated June 4, 2013 from a co-owner of the property at 228 Saxondale Lane, Akila
Venkataraman. This person again believes that this open space is for the use and enjoyment of all the
residents of the community and is somewhat disturbed about the change in plans that are proposed.
They note that they are in opposition to any change to the open space requirements in the subdivision.
Those two emails are entered for the record and a copy of the Petition that was received this evening
which includes signatures representing twenty eight (28) properties in the subdivision. The intro of
this document reads
To: The City of Dover Planning Commission
The undersigned, residents of the Nottingham Meadows Subdivision in the City of Dover, hereby
request, the Planning Commission approve the following:
1. Revise Active Recreation Area to eliminate the proposed pool and clubhouse and then
provide cash in-lieu payment for the Active Recreation Area; and
2. Reconfigure Lots 198-205, making the lots larger to eliminate the small open space area;
and
3. Add Lots 212 and 213 in the area where the Active Recreation Area was; and
4. Expunge 105 lots on the west side of the subdivision.
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Mrs. Belinda Baker – 437 Beuvale Ln Dover, DE 19904
Mrs. Baker stated that she is here tonight to see what is going on, she missed the first meeting but she
would like for this meeting and these attendees to understand that the first meeting with the five people
was not an announced meeting to the community. Those five people do not speak for Belinda Baker at
437 Beuvale Lane Dover, DE 19904. So whatever was discussed at that meeting that was not open to
the community, she is not in agreement with. A clubhouse and swimming pool was a selling feature
for that property when we purchased our home and with no notification until now did they come to the
understanding that the clubhouse and swimming pool are no longer an option. The petition was
something that could be signed but it was never really discussed what it was that they were signing.
She is only here to speak for herself and she would like this Committee to understand that when they
say there was a meeting to discuss the proposed changes, it was not held with the community. She
does not know how those five (5) selected people were picked, the meeting was at someone’s home
and those select few were the only people present at that meeting. Evidentially, whatever comments
were made at that meeting were accepted as comments as speaking for the whole community but it
was not.
Colonel Welsh questioned if Mrs. Baker was still in favor of the clubhouse and swimming pool?
Responding to Colonel Welsh, Mrs. Baker stated that she was not sure because she has not really heard
enough information. She is here tonight because she wants to know exactly what it is that the
developer is proposing. The clubhouse and swimming pool were a selling feature for her and this
maintenance for the little bit of grass that they have, she feels the community can come together and
cut that. So as of this hour, yes, she is in favor of the clubhouse and swimming pool.
Mr. Peter Thompson – 22 Brittingham Drive Dover, DE 19904
Mr. Thompson stated that of the five (5) people at the meeting, he was one of them. It was not
anything more than to hear what the builder was going to propose to the City in order to make the
changes to the subdivision. It was nothing official; these five people have no say for the entire
community. The reason the five (5) of us were present at the meeting is because they have been
working with the homeowners group since day one. They developed the mailing list and a
communication link. They called a meeting for May 22, 2013 and they placed a sign at the entrance of
the community. The mailing list is composed of sixty two (62) addresses, everybody on that list
received notification. About half of that mailing list or residents showed up at the meeting that was
held at Wyoming Methodist Church. At the meeting, they talked about what the developer was
proposing, they did not take pro or con. They put some things out about what might happen and the
petition was talked about so that the people who were in favor of the changes could sign as supporting
the change. Not everybody signed at the meeting; some people are against the proposed changes.
Their property is right next to the proposed area. When they moved there, they could care less whether
there was a clubhouse and swimming pool or not. That was not their motivation for moving here but it
was definitely a plus. But it was a big plus back in the 1970’s and 1980’s when swimming pools were
the big thing to do. Kent Swim Club cannot keep their doors open; Maple Dale and Wild Quail are
offering swim memberships. So he thinks that the interest is waning. He thinks that they could do
something to permit above ground pools on properties which would be a different issue. But the game
has changed because of the change in ownership of the property. They have decreased to one hundred
eight (108) lots, which will be tremendously hard on that amount of property owners to maintain a
clubhouse and pool. He urges the Commission to approve this change. Nothing was done under
handed. The five people at the meeting have no say for the community; they have taken the initiative
to organize the mailing list just as a communication link.
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Colonel Welsh questioned that as he understands, the meeting that occurred was not to enter into any
agreement or to make any commitment? Responding to Colonel Welsh, Mr. Thompson stated
absolutely not. The first time he saw the developer was at this meeting. He told them what his plans
were and they mentioned things that could possibly be changed. The developer stated that is was
willing to talk with the residents after the deal is consummated. So he thinks there is an agreement on
both parts. He is not going to come in, wave a wand and say here is a magic trick for you. He has the
interest of the residents of the community.
Mrs. Kara Okonewski – 424 Beuvale Ln Dover, DE 19904
Mrs. Okonewski stated that she wanted to commend Becker Morgan Group for sending out the notices
through certified mail to all of the residents so that they were able to attend. They have had meetings
in the past and the attendance has been less than desirable. Less than usually half of the community
does come to the meetings. To talk to only 7% of the community does not give a fair perspective.
That 7% of the community does not accurately represent the community. Those who do not care one
way or the other do not relate to her or several of her neighbors. She has children; she has those
summer time needs where “Mommy needs a pool because she needs a break time.” They purchased
their home knowing that they would be paying a premium price in the City of Dover to not only have
one of the most beautiful neighborhoods but also to have those amenities available for us to use, at a
purchase price, with a yearly fee, understanding that they were going to be paying around $300-$400 a
year for the maintenance of the swimming pool. They have never once as a community been presented
with a number as to what it would cost to mow the lawn or what it would cost to maintain the pool.
Only once when she sees a number, can she say that she is for or against no longer having the
clubhouse and swimming pool. Also the 4 or 5 residents who attended the first meeting are self-
appointed. They have not spoken with anyone in the community; they have not come to the
community and asked if they could fairly represent the community. It is so important that we not only
represent the young, the old, the tall, the new, with children, without children. It needs to be all people
in the neighborhood because it is not a one type neighborhood. It is very much a collection of people
and very wonderful people but they are all very different in their needs and what their financial
situations are and what their needs are for the community as well. She will not object to pulling out
the clubhouse and swimming pool but there must be amendments made to the Homeowners
Association. It currently does not allow a bird bath or a small kiddie pool for her child to play in,
which is ridiculous in her opinion. If something is going to be taken from them, then something also
needs to be given. When the meeting was held with thirty (30) out of the sixty eight (68) homeowners,
that Petition was in no way stated to them that it would be used as an official petition presented at this
meeting tonight. They were misled and she needs to make sure that this is noted tonight. They were
asked “Do we need a pool?” and told to sign the Petition if their answer was no. The meeting that took
place was a disgrace. It was shameful to be at the meeting and it got out of hand very quickly. If no
changes are going to be made to the Homeowners Association, if she cannot have a bird bath or kiddy
pool for her child to sit it then she is not in favor of doing away with the clubhouse and swimming
pool. She also does not want a farm, she wants all two hundred eleven (211) lots filled She wants
every house along with the pool and the clubhouse because that is why she purchased and spent
several hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Mrs. Della Hopkins – 113 Derbyshire Ave Dover, DE 19904
Mrs. Hopkins stated the fact that when her and her husband purchased their home, they knew that this
would be a great neighborhood due to the fact of riding through other neighborhoods. When they
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purchased their property, it was indicated to them that there would be a Homeowners Association but
after all of the homes were built and the development was completed. To this day, the development
has not been completed. She understands that there was a home market crash but the neighborhood
has gone this far without a Homeowner’s Association and without any communication of saying when
or how it would take place. The community did have several meetings where a lot of the homeowners
attended and expressed what they felt. They did have a committee that took time to meet with the new
developer but she feels that they did not speak on their behalf. Also in the last meeting referencing all
of these changes in regards to the clubhouse and swimming pool, there were a lot of questions that
were not answered and they were not satisfied with that. Yes, the meeting did get out of control due to
the fact of not enough information. But it was said to the community, that the meeting was just to see
whether or not the clubhouse and swimming pool were wanted by homeowners. Again, they never
knew that the Petition was going to get to this state. They just signed it and now here they are. There
were a lot of people who were not present at the meeting who would normally attend community
meetings who asked neighbors to get the information for them. There were also people who did not
attend because they live in other states and come to their homes in Delaware on weekends and then go
back home. So therefore, they were not able to participate and give their opinions. She feels that even
if it is one hundred eight (108) lots, let’s wait until the whole development is completed and then
organize the Homeowners Association. She lives on the back row where the road comes through and
there was a great deal promised to them. She had to fight to get the row of trees along the back of her
property until they were planted. She appreciates Mr. Steven Cohen taking the time to do this and
giving his word to her to get this project done. But there are so many things that were said in the last
meeting held that they felt a little misled. They also felt that if anything that was said or anything that
should have been conveyed to the community should have been said by the owner who plans to take
over the development. The developer should have presented himself to the community so that they
know who they are dealing with. There were just so many questions that the five (5) people who
attended the meeting with the developer could not answer. So the community left the meeting with
nothing but questions. She feels that since there has not been a clubhouse or swimming pool for this
long, why do they need it now? There are other people who have installed pools. They have above
ground pools and in-ground pools as well. She also feels that if this change is going to be made, then
do it right; complete everything, let the community come up with something that can suffice
everyone’s needs. She believes that with everyone coming together as one, they will all understand
where each other are. She could not understand how those five (5) people present at the meeting with
the developers knew what the community as a whole would want. Let everyone address their needs.
Mrs. Loretta Peer – 308 Gillibrook Ln Dover, DE 19904
Mrs. Peer stated that when they purchased their home, the clubhouse and the swimming pool were a
selling point and the Homeowners Association was going to be based on two hundred eleven (211)
homes, not on one hundred eight (108) homes. As of now, she has waited so long that she does not
need the pool anymore. She needed the pool when she first purchased the home. Technically, as the
original builder went bankrupt, they do not have a Homeowners Association in place. If the new
owner would present them with some guides for a Homeowners Association, then maybe someone
would be interested in going along with their plan. As for the five (5) men who have kept this group
together, they are all volunteers. They would go around and speak with everyone in the community.
They got the meeting rooms together where meetings could be held for the community to attend. At
the very first meeting that was held, committees were setup and their committee was for being the
liaison between the City of Dover and the community. She applauds the volunteers because they have
stuck their necks out and they have tried to help the community.
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CITY OF DOVER PLANNING COMMISSION JUNE 17, 2013
Mrs. Della Hopkins – 113 Derbyshire Ave Dover, DE 19904
Mrs. Hopkins further stated that it was mentioned that there was common area that needed to be
maintained. She believes that it is located at the entrance of Nottingham Meadows, which they have
volunteers who take care of the plants, the mulch and grass. She believes that at one of the meetings
held by the community, they had paid that person who takes care of that. But what other common
ground would there be? Everyone takes care of their own property. Outside of the pond, she believes
that at one time they had volunteers who cleaned that area up. Responding to Mrs. Hopkins, Mr.
Riemann stated that the passive open space that would be maintained is the pond area. So the mowing
of the pond and also the long term maintenance that goes along with that as well because over time
those ponds require a certain level of maintenance other than just mowing. Also, the area that runs
along Wyoming Mill Road and then all the way up Hazlettville Road is open space area.
Mrs. Hopkins further stated that this was a very small portion of land to maintain. She questioned if
this would be the only other area outside of coming in to the development? Responding to Mrs.
Hopkins, Mr. Riemann stated yes, that was correct. That would be the area that would be required to
be maintained. If the clubhouse and the swimming pool were built, then there would be a lot more
maintenance.
Mrs. Hopkins questioned the comment that Mr. Riemann made about extended care for it outside of
just mowing? What would this maintenance cost? If Homeowners Association fees are going to be
collected from the community to maintain the common area at the entrance of the development and
then the pond, what other maintenance costs will be involved to take care of all of this? Responding to
Mrs. Hopkins, Mr. Canuso stated that he thinks there is a little confusion regarding the Homeowners
Association. The Homeowners Association was originally setup by the original builder, Stover Homes
LLC. It was or should have been part of the homeowner’s agreement of sale. They should have a
copy of the Homeowners Association documents. The Homeowners Association has been recorded,
therefore is a lien on the homeowner’s properties. What they are proposing to do is to essentially
activate it and put it in the hands of the homeowners so that the residents can amend it to allow pools
or bird baths on their properties. He does not want to make these decisions for the residents of the
neighborhood. The Homeowners Association is already established; it is already recorded against the
residents’ properties. The By-laws which stipulate everything within the development are already
recorded.
Mr. David Okonewski – 424 Beuvale Ln Dover, DE 19904
Mr. Okonewski stated that they currently have what he would say, major still water in the pond. As
part of the new plan, there was some whisperings that there may be some rehabilitation of that
stormwater pond, to bring it up to the standard Delaware storm pond code. Is this part of this
Comprehensive Plan or not? Responding to Mr. Okonewski, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that
what they are seeking tonight is in regards to the Active Recreation Plan. If there are issues with
the stormwater management pond, the Kent Conservation District has an inspection program related
to ponds. However, it is the responsibility of the designated group to perform whatever necessary
maintenance that may be needed for the pond. In this case, it would be the developer entity until
those common open space areas are turned over to different organization, such as a Homeowners
Association. The Homeowners Association documents do indicate that the pond and its
maintenance needs such as grass mowing, cleaning or repair of the pond would ultimately be the
responsibility of the Homeowners Association in the future.
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CITY OF DOVER PLANNING COMMISSION JUNE 17, 2013
Colonel Welsh stated that the Commission is here to act on the cash in-lieu payment for Active
Recreation Area. They are not here to hear about the creation or the activation of the Homeowners
Association. That is something that the residents need to work out with the builder. He wants to
keep the focus on the Active Recreation Area and whether or not to accept payment in-lieu of it.
Colonel Welsh closed the public hearing.
Mr. Ambruso questioned that if the Commission members recognize the cash in-lieu payment and
the homeowners decide that they do not want the payment in-lieu, will they still have an avenue to
pursue? Responding to Mr. Ambruso, Colonel Welsh stated that if the Commission members
approve the cash in-lieu payment tonight then it will be a done deal. The payment will be in-lieu of
the Active Recreation Area, be it a clubhouse and pool or be it an exercise area or park. Once the
Commission members make their determination tonight, it will be done.
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that what the Planning Commission is considering tonight is what the
Active Recreation Area should consist of within this subdivision. Originally, the Active Recreation
was approved as a pool and clubhouse. The applicant is here tonight asking that the Active
Recreation Area be satisfied by a cash in-lieu payment; a payment in-lieu of constructing an Active
Recreation Area in that subdivision.
Mr. Ambruso stated that he thinks the situation is a little sad because they are dealing with a moral
issue to some extent when it comes to the homeowners. But on the other hand, here is a developer
who has picked up on a project that was not really doing anyone any good. They feel that we do not
want to run off people who want to invest in the community. Often times people do not realize that
they the Planning Commission is charged with the responsibility of voting in the affirmative on
matters that fall within the bounds of what is legal. It is really sad that the residents did not get their
homeowners rules and regulations started before this issue came up.
Dr. Jones stated that it appears to her, even with the issues that they are to consider tonight,
communication has been less than desirable. Maybe not enough information was given to the
residents. She is uncomfortable with the fact that information and communication does not satisfy
those individuals who have signed the Petition. She would like to see some more conversation. She
suggests that maybe a facts sheet would be helpful so that the residents cannot or will not say they
did not understand something.
Mr. Holt stated that swimming pools are very expensive to maintain, especially large pools. There
are a lot of laws that come with pools, such as having to be fenced or having lifeguards. The
Homeowners Association would incur tremendous expenses if the swimming pool was constructed.
He can certainly see how they could save money by not having a pool. Pools are expensive to
maintain and they are only used for one third of the year, depending on the weather.
Mr. Tolbert stated that there has been an obvious lack of information and the homeowners are being
asked to make a decision but they do not have the information necessary to make the decisions
regarding the clubhouse and pool as well as the costs to maintain these amenities. They need that
information to make an intelligent decision and he has not heard it tonight.
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CITY OF DOVER PLANNING COMMISSION JUNE 17, 2013
Mr. Shomo stated that everything that has been said, he agrees with. The residents have to have the
facts in order to make a decision. He knows that it is a difficult situation with the new developer
taking over at the bankruptcy.
Mr. Canuso stated that he would like to apologize for the lack of communication. They got
involved with M&T Bank a while ago; they have been negotiating with them for a long time to try
purchasing the property. Like everyone has said, Nottingham Meadows is a beautiful community
and it is a shame that it has gone the way it has. It has been a long process to get this property under
contract; they have had a lot of meetings with Mrs. Townshend that go back about eighteen (18)
months. He was the builder that came in to finish the four (4) houses that were partially
constructed in this community so they have been involved since that time with trying to purchase
the property. In negotiating with the bank, it had become evident that they was no market for a two
hundred eleven (211) lot subdivision even though there were sixty eight (68) homes completed. It
would have been financially unfeasible to try and develop a property that large. When they finally
came to terms with M&T Bank, they gave him exactly forty-five (45) days to make a decision
which ends on June 30, 2013. This is not something that is on the table; build the clubhouse or not
build the clubhouse. This is a question of whether they move forward or not move forward.
Mr. Canuso further stated that the property right now still has a lot of approvals still needed. They
will have to get Kent Conservation District approval and the City of Dover Public Works
Department approval. This is obviously the biggest decision that has to be made on this project for
them to move forward with it. But there are certain changes coming within the stormwater
management regulations within the State of Delaware and they will probably take effect January 1,
2014. Once this happens, this project will become unbuildable under the current plan. He is
throwing this information on the table, saying that if this application does not get approved and
move forward tonight then he is not sure it will.
Mr. Canuso stated that there are ten (10) lots in the middle of the community that are not built and
who knows what will happen to them at the end of the day. When they first got under contract, the
first thing they did was contact Mrs. Townshend. She suggested that they speak with Mr. Jim
Murray, who was one of the owners in this community who was actively involved in trying to get
the community together, meet with the people and get the mailing list ready. They thought that is
was a great idea. Normally, the developer would come before the Planning Commission first and
the notices for the community would go out. They thought they would meet with Mr. Murray to go
over their idea. They did not go to these five (5) people of the community for recommendations;
they conveyed their plan to these five (5) people for feedback. He stated that within thirty (30) days
to get a community together to communicate their plans for the development and then present to the
Planning Commission would be impossible.
Mr. Canuso further stated that he remembers meeting with Mrs. Townshend and Mrs. Melson-
Williams and discussing a timetable for them to get in front of the Commission; they had one week
to make it happen. The reason that they are on such a time constraint is because they have such a
limited window with M&T Bank in order to purchase the property. They also just purchased
another property from M&T Bank outside of the City, the Stoneridge community. This community
was mostly built; there were five (5) lots that were left empty and there was a partially completed
house and also a partially completed clubhouse. They made connections with some of the
homeowners from this subdivision, told them their plans and ended getting approval to tear down
11
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CITY OF DOVER PLANNING COMMISSION JUNE 17, 2013
that partially completed clubhouse. That was with a community that had ninety (90) lots with only
five (5) lots left to build on. The residents were looking at an estimated $1,000 per unit to maintain
a swimming pool on a yearly basis. He understands that it may be what the residents bought into
but it is just not feasible to do that at this point.
Dr. Jones questioned if the process had been completed for the purchase of Stoneridge?
Responding to Dr. Jones, Mr. Canuso stated yes.
Dr. Jones further questioned since he has an established relationship with the bank, would the bank
allow a time extension? Responding to Dr. Jones, Mr. Canuso stated that they have been
negotiating so long with M&T Bank that they want the feasibility period to end on June 30, 2013
and for them to close on the property by July 15, 2013, which they are ready, willing and able to do.
Colonel Welsh stated that he was not aware of the limited timeframe with the bank. He too was
very concerned about the lack of communication. He thinks there needs to be some improvement.
He also thinks the Homeowners Association, whether active or not, needs to appoint someone as the
Chairman or President of that organization so that they can hold meetings that do not get out of
control. The clubhouse and the swimming pool were the reasons some of the residents bought in
this community when there were supposed to be two hundred eleven (211) lots. The cost to the
residents on an annual basis would have been much less then it will be now with one hundred eight
(108) lots. In lieu of the fact that the developer is willing to complete the project, all be it smaller
than it was, he certainly commends them for that. He thinks as homeowners, the residents should
be very thankful as the project is floundering and under bank ownership. Again, he is concerned
about the communication. He thinks these residents deserve to know what something may cost.
Although the clubhouse and swimming pool were off of the table, the residents were concerned
about the cost would be to maintain the development. He feels that the developer could have come
up with a ballpark figure for the residents. As far as common areas and passive recreation areas, it
is common for the Homeowners Association to pay the fees to maintain the entrance and those
common areas. He thinks those fees will be relatively small. As a Homeowners Association, if
they choose to take it upon themselves to maintain these areas and it can be done successfully, he
sees no reason not to do so. He thinks the alternatives are not there; he thinks they need to move
forward.
Mr. Tolbert moved to approve MI-13-10 Nottingham Meadows: Revised Active Recreation Area for
a cash in-lieu of payment along with the DAC Comments, seconded by Mr. Holt and the motion was
unanimously carried 7-0 with Mr. Holden and Mr. Baldwin absent.
Meeting adjourned at 8:24 PM
Sincerely,
Kristen Mullaney
Secretary
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Paj 15
C-12-05 Transitional Housing for Dover Interfaith
Mission for Housing, Inc. at 319 West Water Street –
Re-evaluation of a Conditional Use Plan approved by Planning
Commission on July 16, 2012 to allow for the establishment of a
philanthropic use consisting of transitional housing in an existing single
family residence. The parcel is zoned C-1A (Limited Commercial Zone)
and is subject to SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Zone) Tier 3 –
Excellent Recharge Area. The property is exempt from the requirements
of the SWPOZ Tier 3 as the site is located within the Downtown
Redevelopment Target Area. The property is located on the north side of
West Water Street in the block between South Queen Street and South
New Street. The owner of the property is Mockfaul, LLC and the lessee is
Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing, Inc. Address: 319 West Water
Street. Tax Parcel: ED05-077.09-03-05.00-000. Council District 2.
At the July 16, 2012 meeting the Planning Commission granted
conditional approval of Conditional Use Application C-12-05 subject
to a series of conditions. One condition noted that the Conditional
Use was to be re-evaluated at the July 15, 2013 meeting to ensure
compliance with applicable Codes.
Re-evaluation of this Application will be postponed until the August
19, 2013 meeting of the Commission to allow for completion of the
property inspection and report of findings.
If you have questions, please contact Planning Staff at 736-7196.
Paj 16
Resolution
Council Resolution No. 2013-20
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,
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:
______________________ ______________________ ___________________
Carleton E. Carey, Sr. David Bonar Col. Robert D. Welsh
Mayor Council President Planning Commission Chairman
Paj 17
Appointment of the Architectural Review Oversight Subcommittee of
Planning Commission
As part of the Annual Meeting of the Planning Commission, one of the responsibilities of the
Planning Commission is to appoint the Architectural Review Oversight Subcommittee. The
following excerpt from the Zoning Ordinance is provided.
Appendix B: Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 Section 2. Site development plan approval.
2.28 Consideration shall be given to the physical orientation and architectural characteristics
of proposed buildings, the relationship of proposed buildings to existing buildings and to
other proposed buildings, and their contributions to the overall image of the immediate
vicinity by considering the building and architectural design guidelines as set forth in article
5, section 19. Design characteristics of proposed buildings and building additions shall not
detract or devalue existing buildings in the immediate vicinity.
(A) If the planning commission determines that the proposed physical orientation and
architectural characteristics of the proposed buildings do not meet the intent and
objectives of this section, then the planning commission shall refer the proposal to
the architectural review oversight subcommittee for review and comment.
(B) The subcommittee shall meet and review the proposal with the applicant, and return
its comments to the planning commission by the next regularly scheduled meeting.
(C) The architectural review oversight subcommittee shall be appointed by the
commission at its annual meeting, and membership shall consist of two planning
commission members, and two design professionals with experience in construction,
and the mayor or the mayor's designee. Two alternate design professionals with
experience in construction shall also be appointed.
As of the Annual Meeting of the Planning Commission on July16, 2012 and the Regular Meeting
of the Planning Commission on November 19, 2012, the following individuals are currently
appointed to the Architectural Review Oversight Subcommittee of Planning Commission.
o Kathleen Still, Planning Commission member
o Dean Holden, Planning Commission member
o Mr. Terry Jackson, Architect with Jackson Architects, Design Professional
o Mr. Jerry Peters, Facilities/Planning with Bayhealth Medical Center, Design Professional
o Mayor or Mayor’s designee
o Alternates:
Mrs. Arden Bardol, Architect with Becker Morgan Group, Design Professional
________________, Design Professional
As part of the Annual Meeting of the Planning Commission shall appoint the membership of
the Architectural Review Oversight Subcommittee. This is an opportunity to consider
individuals to serve on this subcommittee.
Paj 18
City of Dover
DATA SHEET FOR CONDITIONAL USE PLAN REVIEW
DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING OF July 3, 2013
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING OF July 15, 2013
Plan Title: Offices at 1-3 West Loockerman Street and 9 West Loockerman
Street
C-13-04
Plan Type: Conditional Use Plan
Property Location: North side of West Loockerman Street west of South State Street
Property Address: 1-3 West Loockerman Street and 9 West Loockerman Street
Tax Parcel: ED-05-077.09-02-590.000-000
Owner: G& J Holdings LLC
Site Area: 0.4912 acres ± (21,396.67 SF ±)
Present Use: Vacant Building
Proposed Use: Offices – First floor (both spaces)
Offices – Second floor
Sewer & Water: City of Dover
Zoning Classification: C-2 (Central Commercial Zone)
H (Historic District Zone)
P. O. Box 475 Dover, DE 19903
Community Excellence Through Quality Service
Paj 19
CITY OF DOVER City of
Dover
DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE Planning
Office
APPLICATION REVIEW COMMENTARY
D.A.C. MEETING DATE: July 3, 2013
Lands of G & J Holdings LLC: Offices at 1-3 West Loockerman Street and
APPLICATION: 9 West Loockerman Street
FILE #: C-13-04 REVIEWING AGENCY: City of Dover Planning
CONTACT PERSON: Tracey Harvey PHONE #: (302) 736-7196
PLAN SUMMARY:
This Conditional Use Plan Review is to permit an office on the first floor of the existing building
located at 1-3 West Loockerman Street and 9 West Loockerman Street. The property for the
proposed development is zoned C-2 (Central Commercial Zone) and is subject to the H (Historic
District Zone). The property is located on the north side of West Loockerman Street west of
South State Street. The owner of record is G & J Holdings LLC. The property address is 1-3
West Loockerman Street and 9 West Loockerman Street. Tax Parcel: ED-05-077.09-02-590.000-
000.
(Note: This submission makes use of plan drawings previously prepared for the property that
were in the possession of the property owner. As such, some of the information shown is not
current.)
Previous Applications
The Historic District previously reviewed this site and granted approval on August 21, 2003 for
the Architectural Review Certificate for the renovation of the first floor elevations on
Loockerman Street and South State Street (Application HI-03-05). Building Permits were issued
for a revised version of the façade improvements with the replacement of the windows and doors
and new awnings that were approved and completed in 2006.
Project Site
This building known as the Priscilla Block was built circa 1896 as a 2 story brick commercial
building. It is within the Historic District Zone and listed in the National Register of Historic
Places as a contributing resource to the Victorian Dover Historic District (K-396.105).
The Priscilla Block building consists of two separate tenant spaces on the first floor fronting
West Loockerman Street. The corner space with two entries was most recently a restaurant (1-3
West Loockerman Street). The tenant space at 9 West Loockerman Street includes a main entry
flanked by large storefront display windows and most recently served as retail.
Paj 20
C-13-04 Office at 1-3 & 9 W. Loockerman St.
DAC Report – July 3, 2013
Page 2
The second floor of the Priscilla Block building is interconnected with the adjoining buildings
addressed as 152 and 154 South State Street (located on same parcel).
Proposed Project
The application seeks to allow for the establishment of an office on the first floor of the existing
building (in each tenant space area).
Due to its location, this type of land use as an office on the first floor requires Conditional Use
approval by the Planning Commission as noted in Article 3 §13.22 of the Zoning Ordinance.
13.2 Conditional uses. The following uses are permitted, conditional upon the approval of the
planning commission in accordance with the procedures and subject to the general conditions set
forth in article 10, section 10.1 [1] of this ordinance and to any specified requirements set forth
below. Any of the following uses in existence at the time this ordinance [section] is adopted are
considered permitted uses, and shall not lose their status as permitted uses in their existing
locations unless the use is changed to one of the uses listed above in [sub] section 13.1 of this
ordinance [section]. Changes from one conditional use to another will require conditional use
approval.
This Conditional Use is subject to the requirements of Article 10 §1 further discussed below.
With Conditional Use applications, the Planning Commission reviews the proposed project to
determine whether or not the intended use is appropriate in type and scale for the immediate
neighborhood. The Commission must also consider whether or not the proposed use will have
an adverse impact on the future orderly development of the surrounding area. Several sections of
the Zoning Ordinance which relate to the role of the Commission in reviewing Conditional Use
applications are particularly relevant when reviewing this application:
1.1 Accessibility for emergency response. That all proposed structures, equipment or material
shall be readily accessible for fire, ambulance, police, and other emergency response;
1.2 Harmony of location, size and character. That the proposed use shall be of such location,
size and character that, in general, it will be in harmony with the appropriate and orderly
development of the zone in which it is proposed to be situated and will not be detrimental to the
orderly development of adjacent properties in accordance with the zoning classification of such
properties;
For a use seeking conditional use approval that proposes to occupy an existing structure in the
C-2 Zoning District, Article 3 §13.3 outlines the submission requirements. These requirements
include a map of the property showing existing conditions and a conceptual floor plan with the
appropriate legal data.
13.3 Submission requirements for conditional uses in the C-2 zone. The following submission
requirements shall be used in lieu of the requirements of article 10, section 1.6, in the event that
the business, office, or establishment seeking conditional use approval will be occupying an
existing structure:
(a) The applicant shall cause a site map to be prepared. The applicant shall submit 21
copies of the site map at the time of application. The site map shall conform to the
following specifications and the following elements shall be included on the site map:
1. The map shall be at least 11 [inches] by 17 inches, but not more than 24
Paj 21
C-13-04 Office at 1-3 & 9 W. Loockerman St.
DAC Report – July 3, 2013
Page 3
[inches] by 36 inches, and at a scale of ten, 20, 30 or 40 feet to the inch, except
that, if the property has a maximum dimension over 900 feet, a scale of 50 feet to
the inch may be used.
2. The existing building and conditions on the lot must be depicted. It is
permissible to utilize the most recent mortgage survey of the property for this
purpose. If conditions, such as landscaping and accessory structures, on the lot
have changed since the survey was completed, the applicant shall depict these
changes on the plan to the best of his/her ability. However, the nature and extent
of such revisions must be approved by the city planner at the required pre-
application meeting.
3. A conceptual floor plan of the building is required. This floor plan must depict
the location and percent of total floor area devoted to the proposed uses. Any
uses on separate floors which are not the subject of the application must be
referenced by a note on the plan. The city planner may request more detailed
information, including architectural floor plans, on a case-by-case basis at his/her
discretion.
4. Legal data:
(a) Lot, blocks, and section number.
(b) Name and address of the owner of record.
(c) Name and address of the equitable owner, if any.
(d) Name and address of the person, firm, or organization preparing the
map.
(e) Date, north point, and written and graphical scale.
(f) The location and names of adjacent streets.
(g) The location, zoning, and owners of record of all adjacent properties.
Site Considerations
Trash Collection
For office uses less than 50,000 SF, one Dumpster is required for the first 8,000 SF and one for
each additional 16,000 SF or fraction thereof. Arrangements for trash collection will need to be
made with a private trash collection service for the proposed tenant space at 1-3 West
Loockerman Street and 9 West Loockerman Street. Dumpster enclosures are required per
Zoning Ordinance Article 5 Section 6 and must be implemented where space is available on site.
Parking
The C-2 zoning district does not have an off-street parking requirement for existing buildings.
The property includes an existing parking lot (estimated 22 parking spaces) at the rear of the
building with access from the State Street Alley. Staff notes that there several municipal parking
lots located within the immediate area.
Bicycle Parking
Bicycle parking is not required as there is no off-street parking requirement. There are bicycle
parking facilities along West Loockerman Street (post and loop style).
Sidewalk
There is existing sidewalk along West Loockerman Street and South State Street.
Paj 22
C-13-04 Office at 1-3 & 9 W. Loockerman St.
DAC Report – July 3, 2013
Page 4
THE SUBJECT PROPOSAL HAS BEEN REVIEWED FOR CODE COMPLIANCE, PLAN
CONFORMITY, AND COMPLETENESS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THIS AGENCY’S
AUTHORITY AND AREA OF EXPERTISE.
CITY AND STATE CODE REQUIREMENTS:
1) The Site Data and plan drawing column will need to be updated prior to Final Approval with
the following:
a) Any changes recommended or approvals by the Planning Commission.
b) Indicate the proposed use.
c) Indicate the amount of floor area within the building to be utilized by the office tenant.
d) Update ownership information on Plan.
e) Add graphical scale diagram.
f) Add zoning of adjacent properties.
2) Provide a note indicating that the Dumpster Pad and enclosure shall be constructed per the
requirements of Article 5 § 6 of the Zoning Ordinance for the requirements of office and
retail space.
3) Provide an Owner’s Certification note and signature line to plan sheet. See text below.
OWNER’S CERTIFICATION:
I, _______________________, hereby certify that I am the owner of the property described and
shown on this plan, that the plan was made at my direction, and that I acknowledge the same to be
my act and desire the plan to be developed as shown in accordance with all applicable laws and
regulations.
DATE ___________________ SIGNATURE_____________________________
4) Clarify the number of existing parking spaces on this parcel and the location of any handicap
accessible spaces.
5) The application submission required a conceptual floor plan. While a floor plan was
submitted it is not clear how the proposed use will be implemented and doesn’t appear to
depict how the layout (kitchen, etc.) may be renovated/removed during this proposed new
activity use.
a. Add reference to any uses on the second floor of buildings and if basement areas exist.
6) The signage from the previous restaurant remains in the window. These are abandoned signs
per the Zoning Ordinance and must be removed.
RECOMMENDATIONS SUGGESTED AS CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL TO MEET CODE
OBJECTIVES:
1) Staff recommends installation of a bicycle parking rack with five (5) spaces in the rear
parking lot to serve employees of this facility. This will allow the street side bicycle
parking racks to be utilized by visitors and customers.
Paj 23
C-13-04 Office at 1-3 & 9 W. Loockerman St.
DAC Report – July 3, 2013
Page 5
2) Staff recommends that if the tenant space at 9 West Loockerman Street is occupied by an
office user that the front storefront windows be utilized as display areas for programming,
products, etc. These windows are very large and have excellent visibility from the street
and sidewalk.
ADVISORY COMMENTS TO THE APPLICANT:
1) Following Planning Commission approval of the Conditional Use Plan, the Plan must be
revised to meet all conditions of approval from the Development Advisory Committee or
as otherwise noted. A Check Print must be submitted for review by Planning Office Staff.
Upon determination that the Plan is complete and all agency approvals have been
received, copies of the Plan may be submitted for final endorsement.
2) It appears that this new use will involve a change of occupancy classification with
implications for compliance with Building Codes and Fire Codes. The applicant is
advised to meet with the City’s Fire Marshal and Building Inspector.
3) The applicant shall be aware that the Conditional Use Plan approval does not represent a
Sign Permit, nor does it convey permission to place any sign on the premises. Any
proposed site or building identification sign shall require a Sign Permit from the City of
Dover prior to placement of any such sign.
4) The applicant shall be aware that the Conditional Use Plan approval does not represent a
Building Permit and associated construction activity permits. A separate application
process is required for issuance of a Building Permit and Certificate of Occupancy from
the City of Dover.
5) The applicant shall be aware that the Conditional Use Plan approval does not represent a
Public Occupancy Permit. A separate application process is required for issuance of a
Public Occupancy Permit from the City of Dover.
6) Exterior renovations to the building are subject to Architectural Review Certification as
the property is located within the Historic District. This may include review by the
Historic District Commission.
If you have any questions or need to discuss any of the above comments, please call the
above contact person and the Planning Department as soon as possible.
Paj 24
CITY OF DOVER
DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
APPLICATION REVIEW COMMENTARY
STAFF D.A.C. MEETING DATE: JUNE 26, 2013
APPLICATION: LANDS OF G & J HOLDINGS, LLC AT 1-3 AND 9
WEST LOOCKERMAN STREET
FILE #: C-13-04
REVIEWING AGENCY: City of Dover Electric and Public Works Departments
CONTACT PERSON: Steve Enss - Electric
Jason A. Lyon, P.E. – Public Works
CONTACT PHONE #: ELECTRIC - 302-736-7070 PUBLIC WORKS – 302-736-7025
T HE S UBJECT P ROPOSAL HAS BEEN R EVIEWED FOR C ODE C OMPLIANCE , P LAN C ONFORMITY AND C OMPLETENESS IN
A CCORDANCE WITH THIS A GENCY ’ S A UTHORITY AND A REA OF E XPERTISE .
T HE F OLLOWING I TEMS HAVE BEEN I DENTIFIED AS E LEMENTS W HICH N EED TO BE A DDRESSED BY THE A PPLICANT :
CITY AND STATE CODE REQUIREMENTS
ELECTRIC
1. Owner is responsible for following the requirements outlined in the City of Dover’s Electric Service Handbook. The
handbook is now available on the website at the following link: http://www.cityofdover.com/Public-Documents-4017/.
WATER
1. Our office has no objection to the conditional use proposed for the subject property.
2. All water utility components must meet the requirements of the Water Wastewater Handbook, effective date March 22,
2010. Please contact our office for more information.
3. Due to the fact that this property is changing uses, water usage projections (peak demand or plumbing fixtures) must
be submitted to our office to correctly determine if the size of the existing domestic and irrigation (if applicable) water
meter for the building is sufficient. These projections must be submitted prior to approval so the meter size can be
placed on the final site plan. If the meter needs to be changed, a waiver letter must be submitted to the Department
of Public Works requesting a relaxation of the requirement that all water meters must be installed in a pit.
WASTEWATER
1. Our office has no objection to the conditional use proposed for the subject property.
2. All wastewater utility components must meet the requirements of the Water Wastewater Handbook, effective date
March 22, 2010. Please contact our office for more information.
3. Sizing (flow) calculations must be submitted for all sanitary sewer laterals (other than for single-family dwellings)
showing that velocity and all other requirements are met. All proposed wastewater utility components must meet the
requirements of the Water / Wastewater Handbook, effective date March 22, 2010. Please contact our office for more
information.
STORMWATER / SANITATION/ STREETS/GROUNDS
1. None
GENERAL
1. The final site plan must be submitted in a digital format compatible with AutoCAD 2010 (.dwg format) and Adobe
Reader (.pdf format).
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Lands of G & J Holdings, LLC at 1-3 and 9 West Loockerman Street
File #: C-13-04
June 26, 2013
Page 2 of 2
RECOMMENDATIONS SUGGESTED AS CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL TO MEET CODE OBJECTIVES
ELECTRIC
1. None
WATER / WASTEWATER / STORMWATER / STREETS / GROUNDS / GENERAL
1. None
SANITATION
1. The City of Dover does not provide sanitation service to commercial properties.
ADVISORY COMMENTS TO THE APPLICANT
ELECTRIC
1. None
WATER / WASTEWATER / STORMWATER / SANITATION / STREETS / GROUNDS / GENERAL
1. None
GENERAL
1. Construction plans will not be reviewed by our office unless all previous comments have been clearly addressed
within the plan set and accordingly identified within an itemized response letter and with the Water/Wastewater Initial
Plan Submission Checklist, which can be obtained from the following website: https://imageserv9.team-
logic.com/mediaLibrary/198/WaterWastewaterHandbookFinal_1.pdf, page 88.
I F Y OU H AVE A NY Q UESTIONS OR N EED TO D ISCUSS ANY OF THE A BOVE C OMMENTS , P LEASE C ALL THE A BOVE
C ONTACT P ERSON AND THE P LANNING D EPARTMENT AS S OON AS P OSSIBLE .
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C F
I I
CITY OF DOVER T R
Y E
DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
O M
APPLICATION REVIEW COMMENTARY F A
R
D.A.C. MEETING DATE: June 26, 2013 D S
O H
V A
E L
R
APPLICATION: 1-3 and 9 West Loockerman St.
FILE #: C-13-04 REVIEWING AGENCY: City of Dover, Office of the Fire Marshal
CONTACT PERSON: David Truax, Fire Marshal PHONE #: (302) 736-7011
THE SUBJECT PROPOSAL HAS BEEN REVIEWED FOR CODE COMPLIANCE, PLAN CONFORMITY,
AND COMPLETENESS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THIS AGENCY’S AUTHORITY AND AREA OF
EXPERTISE.
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED AS ELEMENTS WHICH NEED TO BE ADDRESS BY
THE APPLICANT:
CITY AND STATE CODE REQUIREMENTS:
Proposed building is two story business occupancy and requires 25% fire lane coverage as the
building is sprinklered. Loockerman St can be used to achieve the 25% requirement.
Any gas fired HVAC equipment must be equipped with emergency cutoff switches remotely
located.
Address numbers of at least 12 inches in height must be placed on the street side of the building
visible from the street.
Any natural or LP gas bottles, meters, values, regulators, etc., must have impact protection.
Full building and fire plan review is required.
Building area being renovated cannot be occupied or construction or renovations started until
completion of building and fire plan review.
All required means of egress shall have an exit discharge consisting of a non slip surface, and
leading to and terminating at a public way.
Sprinkler system is existing and to remain. May need to be changed per renovations.
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Fire alarm system existing to remain. Will need to be expanded depending on renovations.
Knox Box required.
Project to be completed per approved Site Plan.
RECOMMENDATIONS SUGGESTED AS CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL TO MEET CODE
OBJECTIVES:
ADVISORY COMMENTS TO THE APPLICANT:
After any application has been approved by the Planning Commission, the applicant has a
maximum of thirty (30) days to appeal to the Code Board of Appeals Committee.
All comments from this office, approved by the Planning Commission are at the expense of the
owner/applicant.
The proposed building will be reviewed under Business Occupancy.
The City of Dover uses the 2012 NFPA Life Safety Code, 2009 IBC, latest editions of all other
NFPA Codes and the 2012 Delaware State Fire Prevention Regulations.
The Dover Fire Department request that a 8 ½ X 11 copy of the floor plan and site plan be
submitted to Station 1, attention Fire Chief, prior to the Certificate of Occupancy being issued.
If you have any questions or need to discuss any of the above comments, please call the
above contact person and the Planning Department as soon as possible.
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CITY OF DOVER D
E
DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
L
APPLICATION REVIEW COMMENTARY D
O
D.A.C. MEETING DATE: June 26, 2013 T
===============================================================
APPLICATION: Lands of G & J Holdings LLC at 1-3 and 9 W. Loockerman Street
FILE#: C-13-04 REVIEWING AGENCY: DelDOT
CONTACT PERSON: Julio F. Seneus PHONE#: 760-2145
===============================================================
THE SUBJECT PROPOSAL HAS BEEN REVIEWED FOR CODE COMPLIANCE, PLAN CONFORMITY AND COMPLETENESS IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THIS AGENCY'S AUTHORITY AND AREA OF EXPERTISE.
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED AS ELEMENTS WHICH NEED TO BE ADDRESSED BY THE APPLICANT:
CITY & STATE CODE REQUIREMENTS:
1. The Department has no comments.
RECOMMENDATIONS SUGGESTED AS CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL TO MEET CODE
OBJECTIVES:
ADVISORY COMMENTS TO THE APPLICANT:
• No additional access will be granted on State Street and Loockerman Street.
If you have any questions or need to discuss any of the above comments, please call the
above contact person and the planning department as soon as possible.
Paj 29
CITY OF DOVER
DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
APPLICATION REVIEW COMMENTARY
JULY 2013
APPLICATION: Lands of G&J Holdings
FILE #: C-13-04
REVIEWING AGENCY: Kent Conservation District
CONTACT PERSON: David C. Cahill PHONE #: 741-2600 ext.3
THE SUBJECT PROPOSAL HAS BEEN REVIEWED FOR CODE COMPLIANCE, PLAN CONFORMITY AND
COMPLETENESS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THIS AGENCY’S AUTHORITY AND AREA OF EXPERTISE. THE
FOLLOWING ITEMS HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED AS ELEMENTS WHICH NEED TO BE ADDRESSED BY THE
APPLICANT:
CITY AND STATE CODE REQUIREMENTS:
1. Kent Conservation District has no objection to conditional use site plan of the above referenced site.
ADVISORY COMMENTS TO THE APPLICANT:
The Following comments are advisory and apply to the development of a detailed site plan for this project.
1. If at any time expansion or earth disturbing activity (clearing, grubbing tree clearing etc.) takes place and
exceeds 5000 square feet; a detailed Sediment and Stormwater Management Plan must be submitted and
approved to the Kent Conversation District.
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City of Dover
REVISED REPORT: Amended July 2, 2013
DATA SHEET FOR MINOR SUBDIVISION PLAN REVIEW
DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING OF June 5, 2013
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING OF June 17, 2013
Plan Title: Lands of KW Lands at 1570 North DuPont Highway
SB-13-03
Plan Type: Minor Subdivision Plan
Property Location: West side of North DuPont Highway and east of Crawford
Carroll Avenue, north of but not adjacent to Rustic Lane
Tax Parcel Number: ED-05-057.00-01-05.00-000
Owner: KW Lands
Site Area: 11.258 acres +/-
Parcels to be created: Lot 1 – Hampton Inn: 2.195 acres +/-
Lot 2 – Parking/Stormwater: 2.018 acres +/-
Residual - Sheraton: 6.002 acres +/-
Right-of-way Designated: KW Boulevard: 1.043 acres +/-
Existing Sewer & Water: Water: City of Dover
Sewer: City of Dover
Zoning Classification: RC (Recreational and Commercial Zone)
C-4 (Highway Commercial Zone)
SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone) – Tier 3
Waivers Requested: Reduction in Bicycle Parking Spaces Requirement
Partial Elimination of Sidewalk
Elimination of Arterial Street Buffer
P. O. Box 475 Dover, DE 19903
Community Excellence Through Quality Service
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City of
Dover
CITY OF DOVER Planning
Office
DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
APPLICATION REVIEW COMMENTARY
D.A.C. MEETING DATE: June 5, 2013
REVISED REPORT: Amended July 2, 2013
APPLICATION: Lands of KW Lands at 1570 North DuPont Highway: Minor Subdivision
FILE #: SB-13-03 REVIEWING AGENCY: City of Dover Planning
CONTACT PERSON: Dawn Melson-Williams, AICP PHONE #: (302) 736-7196
**** The following Report prepared by the Planning Office on June 5, 2013 and issued on
June 7, 2013 has been REVISED due to receipt of new information on the future of the
subject property. Please review the REVISED Report was it supersedes the D.A.C. Report
previously issued by the Planning Office. ****
PLAN SUMMARY
This Minor Subdivision Plan proposes to create three (3) parcels of land and right-of-way from the
existing 11.258 acre +/- parcel. The parcel will be subdivided into a 2.195 acre +/- parcel, a 2.018
acre +/- parcel, and a 6.002 acre +/- parcel. The plan also proposes the designation of a 60 ft. right-
of-way along KW Boulevard for public use (1.043 acre +/- area). The property is zoned RC
(Recreational and Commercial Zone), C-4 (Highway Commercial Zone) and a portion is subject to
the SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone) Tier 3 – Excellent Recharge Area. The
property is located west side of North DuPont Highway and east of Crawford Carroll Avenue and
north of but not adjacent to Rustic Lane. The owner of record is KW Lands. Address: 1570 North
DuPont Highway. Tax Parcel: ED-05-057.00-01-05.00-000. Council District 4.
The property includes the existing Sheraton Hotel & Conference Center and the Hampton Inn along
with the associated site improvements of parking lot areas and landscaping. The Minor Subdivision
Plan proposal is to strike lot lines to create separate parcels for the buildings on the property. The
property is currently developed; however, changes appear to be eminent. Staff is aware of a
proposal for closure of the Sheraton Hotel & Conference Center in late July 2013 with Delaware
State University as the new lessee of the facility. Any future use of the facility is subject to other
review processes if a change of use from a hotel is proposed. Any new use must be in compliance
with the Zoning Ordinance.
In order to subdivide the property, the plan review must ensure that the subdivision does not create
any non-conformities with the bulk standards of the Zoning Ordinance. These bulk standards include
minimum lot size, front yard setbacks, side yard setbacks, rear yard setbacks, floor area ratio,
etc. Other requirements of the Zoning Ordinance relating to site improvement items such as the
landscaping, arterial street buffer, tree planting, parking, etc. may be considered non-conforming and
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SB-13-03 Lands of KW Lands at 1570 North DuPont Highway: Minor Subdivision
REVISED DAC Report: Amended July 2, 2013
Page 2
can be assumed to have met the zoning requirements at the time that the site was developed as the
hotel and hotel/conference center use and accepted as existing conditions in certain instances.
Overall, staff recommends that the owner and developer work with the Planning Office to bring this
site closer to the current code standards for the current use of the property; however, we
acknowledge that some of the non-conformity will continue to exist. Several waiver requests have
been filed to address some of these site improvement elements. It is noted that any new use of the
property of the property and buildings will be subject to additional review to address Zoning
Ordinance compliance.
Previous Applications:
A subdivision plan, SB-90-17 Property of KW Lands GP, was reviewed in 1990 to subdivide a
larger tract of land into parcels for development as the previous Wal-Mart and the Sam’s Club
while the Sheraton Hotel (built circa 1974) remained on the residual land. At that time a 60 foot
wide easement (known as KW Boulevard) was established for access to the parcels from North
DuPont Highway. In 1992, the Planning Commission granted approval to a Site Plan application
for a major building addition to the Sheraton. This addition more than doubled the floor area of
the facility by adding the conference facilities (meeting and banquet rooms) and also expanded
the parking lot and made stormwater management improvements. The Hampton Inn was built in
1995-1996 following approval of Site Plan Application S-95-5 Hampton Inn. The development
of this four story hotel included parking and tree planting site improvements.
Later Crawford Carroll Avenue is constructed between the Sheraton & Hampton Inn location
and the Sam’s Club facility which connects Rustic Lane to Scarborough Road. The ownership
and maintenance responsibilities for the segment of Crawford Carroll Avenue between KW
Boulevard (easement) and West Rustic Lane must be clarified. There is a 1995 Agreement
between KW Lands and DelDOT related to land for this service road (Crawford Carroll
Avenue).
PROPOSED SUBDIVISION PLAN:
This proposal is to divide the property into three parcels with each building on its own parcel with a
third parcel with only a paved parking area and the stormwater management facility. The plan also
proposes the dedication a sixty (60) foot right-of-way to public use to create KW Boulevard as a
public street.
The procedures for subdivision of land are found in the Land Subdivision Regulations. Planning
Staff confirms this application as a Minor Subdivision. Therefore, the Planning Commission may
find the application is subject to one public hearing and review for action by the Planning
Commission followed by the administrative process to complete the Final Plat for recordation.
This subdivision of land and any future development or use of the parcels are subject to the
requirements found in the City of Dover Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 §16 and 3 §18 and
referenced sections outlined in the permitted uses for the RC (Recreational and Commercial
Zone) and C-4 (Highway Commercial Zone) and the provisions of the SWPOZ (Source Water
Protection Overlay Zone).
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SB-13-03 Lands of KW Lands at 1570 North DuPont Highway: Minor Subdivision
REVISED DAC Report: Amended July 2, 2013
Page 3
Parcel Considerations
The following table highlights some of the design standard requirements for the RC
(Recreational and Commercial Zone) and C-4 (Highway Commercial Zone). NOTE: This chart
is not an all-inclusive listing of the code requirements, but is provided as summary information
on some development requirements.
MINIMUM REQUIRED: RC C-4
Lot Area 5 acres ----
Lot Width (ft.) 250 feet 150 feet per building
Lot Depth (ft.) 400 feet 150 feet
Front yard setback (ft.) 30 feet 30 feet
Side yard setback (ft.) 50 feet 25 feet
Rear yard setback (ft.) 50 feet 10 or equal to height
of building
Side or rear yards which adjoins a 100 feet 30 feet
residential zone (ft.)
Off-street parking spaces:
Per 300 sq. ft. of floor area 1 1.5
Per employee, (whichever is greater) 1
Maximum Permitted:
Building Height: Stories 10 4
1) Feet 130 feet 45 feet
Floor Area Ratio 4.0 2.0
For the Minor Subdivision Plan, the proposed parcels must be in compliance with these and other
requirements of the Zoning Ordinance. Proposed Lot 1 and Lot 2 must comply with the C-4
requirements while the residual lands where the Sheraton is located must comply with the RC
requirements. The proposed lots appear to meet the lot dimension requirements of parcels within
their respective Zoning Districts. The current plan submission is missing some details regarding
the existing improvements necessary to evaluate compliance with some of these bulk standard
items such as Setbacks, Parking, Number of Stories, Building Height, and Floor Area Ratio (See
comments.).
Site Considerations
With the appearance of this application before the Planning Commission other site improvement
elements must be reviewed for compliance with the Zoning Ordinance based on the existing uses
of the property as hotels. These items include access, parking, bicycle parking, sidewalks, tree
plantings, etc.
Access
Currently, the parcel has two access points along KW Boulevard and one from Crawford Carroll
Avenue. With these access points serving multiple parcels following the subdivision, a series of
cross-assess easements between the parcels must be established. Similar easements will also be
necessary for utility infrastructure and stormwater management activities. The proposal for
dedication of KW Boulevard for public use and the City of Dover taking dedication of it as
public street will require further evaluation by the Department of Public Works of the access
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SB-13-03 Lands of KW Lands at 1570 North DuPont Highway: Minor Subdivision
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drive’s conditions and compliance with the City’s street standards. A specific procedure
involving City Council review and action is required for dedication and acceptance of the public
street.
Parking
The parking requirements for a property in the RC zone are one parking space per 300 S.F. of
floor area. For a property in the C-4 zone, the parking requirement is 1.5 parking spaces per 300
S.F. of floor area or one per employee, whichever is greater. However, with the use of the
buildings as hotels then we must look also to the hotel parking calculation of one space per guest
room and with one space per 200 S.F. of meeting rooms, banquet rooms, and office space. Thus
some addition information on floor areas, number of guest rooms, etc. must be provided to check
the parking requirements.
Each of the hotel buildings is surrounded by parking lot areas and the Lot 2 has a large paved
area utilized for parking. The Zoning Ordinance includes provisions for considerations of
parking to jointly serve multiple establishments or to use a combined spaces strategy. Depending
on the required parking and the amount of existing parking available consideration may need to
be given alternative parking provisions. Each hotel appears to include a designated loading zone
or loading dock area.
Waiver Requested: Reduction of Bicycle Parking
The Zoning Ordinance requirement for bicycle parking is one bicycle parking space for every
twenty parking spaces. The total number of parking spaces on the site must be provided for the
bicycle parking calculation to be completed. Per the Zoning Ordinance, Article 6 §3.10 the
Planning Commission may consider a waiver request to reduce the bicycle parking requirement.
The written waiver request submitted for consideration by the Planning Commission notes that
based on 503 parking spaces on the properties that a total of twenty-six bicycle parking spaces
would be required overall. The applicant is seeking a reduction of the requirements to ten spaces
and intends to install two 5-space bicycle parking racks (one at each hotel) on the site.
Waiver Requested: Partial Elimination of Sidewalks
From the aerial view on the plan submission it appears that sidewalks are limited to the frontages
along Crawford Carroll Avenue and a small segment only KW Boulevard. Sidewalks are
required along the North DuPont Highway frontage and along KW Boulevard as it is proposed to
become a public street. Barrier free access ramps shall be installed at all points where sidewalks
intersect with roadways and parking areas. See Zoning Ordinance, Article 5 §18 for sidewalk
requirements and waiver provisions. A written request for a sidewalk waiver of the sidewalk
along the frontage of North DuPont Highway for the Sheraton parcel was received for Planning
Commission review.
SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone)
Portions of the site are located within the SWPOZ (Tier 3: Excellent Recharge Area) found in
Article 3 Section 29.7 of the Zoning Ordinance. Constructions activities on the property will be
subject to these provisions which may include limitations on lot coverage especially for the Lot 2
parcel.
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SB-13-03 Lands of KW Lands at 1570 North DuPont Highway: Minor Subdivision
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TREE PLANTING AND LANDSCAPE PLAN
The aerial plan view indicates that there are the existing trees on the property; however, the exact
number is unclear. Each parcel would be evaluated for compliance with tree planting. Based on
the tree planting rate of one tree per 3,000 SF of lot area the following are required: 88 trees for
Sheraton (Residual parcel), 32 trees for Hampton Inn parcel, and 30 trees on Lot 2. This is one of
the site improvements where existing conditions can be accepted. However, future development
of Lot 2 or redevelopment of the hotel sites will require implementation of the tree planting
requirements.
Waiver Request: Elimination of the Arterial Street Buffer
The Sheraton parcel includes frontage on North DuPont Highway which as an arterial street
requires an Arterial Street Buffer of thirty (30) feet per Zoning Ordinance, Article 5 §7.3. A
written waiver request was received for consideration noting the existing conditions of the site
due to previous development. A grass lawn area appears within the right-of-way for North
DuPont Highway in this frontage area.
Also the C-4 zoning district requires a ten foot landscape strip along street frontages. This is to
occur along the north and west property lines of Lot 1 and the west property line of Lot 2. It
appears that some landscaped area is currently present along these frontages.
THE SUBJECT PROPOSAL HAS BEEN REVIEWED FOR CODE COMPLIANCE, PLAN
CONFORMITY, AND COMPLETENESS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THIS AGENCY’S
AUTHORITY AND AREA OF EXPERTISE.
CITY AND STATE CODE REQUIREMENTS:
1) The ownership and maintenance of the segment of Crawford Carroll Avenue between KW
Boulevard and Rustic Lane is in the process of being clarified. Our mapping shows this area
as still part of the parcel owned by KW Lands; however, there is an Agreement from 1995
pertaining to the land of this road improvement. Resolution will involve coordination with
the applicant, the City, DelDOT, and Kent County Mapping Office and Recorder of Deeds to
resolve.
a) Review of this Minor Subdivision Plan treated this segment area as a street right-of-way
resulting in parcels fronting on a public street. If it is not a public street nor will it become
a public street then waivers of the Land Subdivision Regulations will be required for the
creation of Lot 2.
b) Show right-of-way on plan drawing with appropriate references.
2) For the review of this Minor Subdivision Plan, the easement of KW Boulevard was viewed a
right-of-way for a public street (since creation of it as a public street was proposed). If it does
not become a public street then waivers of the Land Subdivision Regulations will be required
for the creation of Lot 1.
3) The Plan will need to be updated to reflect any changes recommended or approvals by the
Planning Commission.
4) Identify location of the zoning boundary line between the RC and C-4 Zones and its distance
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SB-13-03 Lands of KW Lands at 1570 North DuPont Highway: Minor Subdivision
REVISED DAC Report: Amended July 2, 2013
Page 6
from the proposed lot line. Its location may impact how the requirements of each zoning
district are applied per Zoning Ordinance, Article 2 §3.
5) On the Plan drawing provide the following:
a) Add the SWPOZ boundary line to the plan drawing.
b) The distances from the buildings to the property lines (to confirm setback compliance).
c) Indicate the 10 foot landscape strip on Lot 1 and Lot 2.
6) In the Data Column, add the following information specific to each proposed lot in the
format listing the code requirement and the existing/proposed condition:
a) Building height and number of stories
b) Total Floor Area for each building and the Floor Area Ratio (FAR)
c) Number of guest rooms and floor area of other building components (meeting room,
banquet rooms, offices, etc.)
d) Parking calculation and number of parking spaces by parcel
e) Bicycle parking
7) A written waiver request for a reduction in the number of required bicycle parking spaces
was received for consideration by the Planning Commission. As the applicant proposes
adding two 5-space bike racks, the location of this bicycle parking should be identified on the
plan.
8) Sidewalks are required along the frontages of the properties adjoining a public street. A
written waiver request was submitted for consideration by the Planning Commission for the
sidewalk on the frontage along North DuPont Highway.
9) A written waiver request for the elimination of the Arterial Street Buffer (30 foot landscape
buffer) along North DuPont Highway was submitted for consideration by the Planning
Commission.
10) Depending on the parking requirements and the parking spaces available, consideration of
joint parking facilities or combined spaces for a campus may need to be reviewed. At the
present time, parking for the hotel and hotel/conference center facility is viewed as an
existing condition. Additional information has been requested in order to calculate the
parking requirements for the property under today’s requirements for hotel usage. Other uses
have different parking requirements.
11) Further review and evaluation of KW Boulevard will be required for its establishment as a
public street.
a) Currently, KW Boulevard does not include sidewalks. A sidewalk waiver may be
required in the future if sidewalks cannot be implemented.
b) Provisions for the existence and maintenance of the pylon sign within the median of KW
Boulevard must be established as this would become an off-premises sign. The sign
regulations of the Zoning Ordinance do include provisions for shared freestanding signs.
c) The procedure for dedication and acceptance of a public street involved the Department
of Public Works and action by the City Council.
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12) The information on a cross easements, utility easements, and stormwater management are to
be noted on the Final Plan.
a) A copy of the documents must be submitted to the Planning Office upon recordation.
b) Also there is a letter agreement relating to a series of evergreen tree plantings located
along the property line between the Sheraton on the C.F. Schwartz Motor Inc. parcel.
Add a reference to this agreement as the tree plantings are part of the Tree Mitigation
Plan for the adjacent parcel.
RECOMMENDATIONS SUGGESTED AS CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL TO MEET CODE
OBJECTIVES:
1) Staff Recommendations on Waiver Requests:
a) Reduction in Bicycle Parking: Staff recommends denial of a reduction in the overall
number of bicycle parking spaces to ten (10) spaces from the required twenty-six (26)
bicycle parking spaces (based on an estimated 503 existing parking spaces). While the
installation of a bicycle parking rack (of 5 spaces each) at each hotel building would be
appropriate for the existing uses on the site, the anticipated use of the Sheraton building
facility for yet to be determined uses by Delaware State University is likely to be
deficient in the number of bicycle parking spaces. Any rack installed should be located to
best serve visitors, hotel guests, employees, etc.
b) Partial Elimination of Sidewalks: Staff recommends denial of the request to eliminate the
sidewalk along the public street frontage of North DuPont Highway. While the existing
parking lot conditions of the property in this area will limit sidewalk construction if
parking spaces are needed to be retained for parking regulations compliance, public
sidewalks along the street frontage are typically constructed in the right-of-way. This is
one of the missing sidewalk segments along the North DuPont Highway corridor. While
hotel guest would have an opportunity to use the sidewalk, the proposed future use of the
facility by Delaware State University would increase the likelihood of pedestrian travel in
this area.
i) Staff encourages the pursuit of opportunities (future road improvement projects,
special funding efforts, etc.) for construction of a sidewalk in this area as there may
be space within the right-of-way to make the sidewalk improvement and help
complete the sidewalk network.
c) Elimination of Arterial Street Buffer: Staff recommends approval of the request to
eliminate the arterial street buffer requirement along the North DuPont Highway
recognizing the encroachment of the existing parking lot into this area which may have
been constructed prior to the landscape buffer requirement. There are several parking lot
islands which could serve as landscaped areas and there is a grass area within the right-
of-way.
2) The requirements of the Zoning Ordinance relating to site improvement items such as the
landscaping, arterial street buffer, tree planting, parking, etc. may be considered non-
conforming. They are assumed to have met the zoning requirements at the time that the site
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Page 8
was developed as the hotel and hotel/conference center uses. For these site elements, Staff
recommends acceptance the existing conditions for the current use of the site as a hotel and
hotel/conference center. Staff recommends that the owner and developer continue to work
with the Planning Office to evaluate where these items of non-conformity may exists and to
work to bring this site closer to the current code standards for the current hotel uses. This
determination does not extend to any new use of the property and buildings as any change
will be subject to additional review to address Zoning Ordinance compliance.
ADVISORY COMMENTS TO THE APPLICANT:
1) The dedication and acceptance of KW Boulevard as public street by the City of Dover is
subject to a separate review and approval process involving the Department of Public Works,
the City Manager, and City Council.
2) Other agencies and departments which participate in the Development Advisory Committee
may provide additional comments related to their areas of expertise and code requirements.
3) In the event, that major changes and revisions to the plan occur in the finalization of the plan
contact the Department of Planning and Inspections. These changes may require resubmittal
for review by the Development Advisory Committee, Planning Commission, or other
agencies making recommendations in regards to the plan.
4) Following Planning Commission approval of the Minor Subdivision Plan, the Plan must be
revised to meet all conditions of approval from the Development Advisory Committee or as
otherwise noted. A Check Print must be submitted for review by Planning Office Staff. Upon
determination that the Plan is complete and all agency approvals have been received, copies
of the Final Plat may be submitted for final endorsement.
5) Upon final approval and endorsement, this Minor Subdivision Plan must be recorded at the
Kent County Recorder of Deeds Office.
6) The applicant shall be aware that Minor Subdivision approval does not represent a Site Plan
approval for development. A separate application process is required for Site Plan Review.
7) The applicant shall be aware that Minor Subdivision approval does not represent a Building
Permit and associated construction activity permits. A separate application process is
required for issuance of a Building Permit from the City of Dover.
8) In the past, the grass in the southern area of the proposed Lot 2 and the grass strip between
the sidewalk and Crawford Carroll Avenue in this same area has exceeded the permitted
grass height of the Dover Code of Ordinances. This grass must be regularly cut and properly
maintained; continued violation may result in Code Enforcement action and may also limit
the ability for project approvals to be issued due to the “Clean Hands Ordinance” provisions.
If you have any questions or need to discuss any of the above comments, please call the
above contact person and the Planning Department as soon as possible.
Paj 39
CITY OF DOVER
DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
APPLICATION REVIEW COMMENTARY
STAFF D.A.C. MEETING DATE: MAY 29, 2013
APPLICATION: Lands of KW, Lands at 1570 N. Dupont Highway
FILE #: SB-13-03
REVIEWING AGENCY: City of Dover Electric and Public Works Departments
CONTACT PERSON: Steve Enss - Electric
Jason A. Lyon, P.E. – Public Works
CONTACT PHONE #: Electric - 302-736-7070 Public Works – 302-736-7025
T HE S UBJECT P ROPOSAL HAS BEEN R EVIEWED FOR C ODE C OMPLIANCE , P LAN C ONFORMITY AND C OMPLETENESS IN
A CCORDANCE WITH THIS A GENCY ’ S A UTHORITY AND A REA OF E XPERTISE .
T HE F OLLOWING I TEMS HAVE BEEN I DENTIFIED AS E LEMENTS W HICH N EED TO BE A DDRESSED BY THE A PPLICANT :
CITY AND STATE CODE REQUIREMENTS
ELECTRIC
1. The roadway and curbing must be in.
2. The right-of-way must be within 6" of final grade.
3. The property corners must be staked.
4. Owner is responsible for locating all water, sewer, and storm sewer lines.
5. Owner is responsible for installing all conduits and equipment pads per the City of Dover Engineering Department
specifications.
6. All cable and electrical equipment will be installed along the right-of-way in front of the lots.
7. Owner is responsible for site and/or street lighting.
8. Meter locations will be determined by City of Dover Engineering Department.
9. Load sheets and AutoCAD compatible DXF or DWG diskettes of site plans, including driveways, are required prior to
receiving approved electrical construction drawings.
10. Any relocation of existing electrical equipment will be engineered by the City of Dover Electric Department. Developer
may be required to perform a quantity of the relocation. Any work performed by the City of Dover will be at the
owner’s expense.
11. Prior to construction, owner is responsible for granting an easement to the City of Dover Electric Department.
Easement forms will be furnished and prepared by the City of Dover Electric Engineering Department.
12. Fees will be assessed upon final site plans. The owner will be responsible for fees assessed prior to construction.
Owner is required to sign off plans prepared by the Electric Department.
13. Must maintain 10' clearance around all electrical equipment, unless pre-approved by the City of Dover Electric
Engineering Department.
14. Prior to the completion of any/all designs and estimates, the owner is responsible for providing the Electric
Engineering Department with a physical address of the property.
15. All Engineering and design for Dover Electric will be engineered upon final approved plans. All Engineering work will
be furnished by the City’s Electric Engineering Department.
WATER
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Lands of KW, 1570 N. Dupont Hwy.
File #: SB-13-03
May 29, 2013
Page 2 of 3
1. Easements shall be developed between the two (2) parcels for any water line that crosses proposed properties. The
easement agreement shall be between the two (2) subdivided property owners.
WASTEWATER
1. Easements shall be developed between the two (2) parcels for any wastewater line that crosses proposed properties.
The easement agreement shall be between the two (2) subdivided property owners.
STORMWATER
1. Final site plan approval will not be granted until a copy of the approved Stormwater/Erosion and Sediment Control
Plan from Kent Conservation District submitted to our office.
STREETS
1. In order for the City of Dover to accept KW Boulevard, the following City of Dover Department of Public Works
specifications must be met:
a. Pavement sections must be designed based upon poor soil conditions unless soil boring data is provided showing
otherwise. Structural number calculations must be submitted for review and a pavement cross section detail
must be included within the plan set.
b. All curbing within the right-of-way shall be DelDOT Type III curb and gutter. All curb radii must be labeled on the
plan. In particular, a minimum radius of twenty-five feet (25’) must be provided at all street intersections. A
construction detail of the Type III curb and gutter must be provided on the plan.
c. Sidewalk proposed within the right-of-way shall be constructed as per the City of Dover Standards and
Specifications. All sidewalks must be poured by hand; curb machine slip formed sidewalks will not be permitted.
The sidewalk must be scored in five feet (5’) squares using hand tooled joints. All tool marks shall be removed as
tool finished edges are not permitted. Expansion joints shall be installed at a spacing of twenty feet (20’) and
shall be precut, one-half inch (½ “) thick, four-inch (4”) wide, cork sheets. All sidewalk proposed within the right-
of-way shall consist of Class B concrete, without reinforcing material, in order to prevent future interference with
utility locating. The proposed five feet (5’) wide public sidewalk shall be installed 5 feet from the back of curb.
The sidewalk cross slope shall not exceed 2% including across the driveways to ensure ADA and FHA
compliance. A sidewalk construction detail containing the above information must be provided on the plan.
d. All barrier free access ramps and driveway aprons constructed with the site improvements shall be in accordance
with the most current ADA and DelDOT requirements and standards at the time of construction. To meet cross
slope requirements a five feet (5’) wide grass strip must be provided between a five feet (5’) sidewalk and the
curb.
e. Signage and markings must be included with the site plan in accordance the Manual for Uniform Traffic Control
Devices. Signage proposed for streets to be dedicated to the City of Dover must be included on the plan (no
parking signs, speed limit signs, street blades, stops signs, watch children, etc.) All signs must be installed on
two-inch (2”) square break away sign posts.
2. It shall be unlawful for any person to alter the curb of any street so as to create a curb depression for the purpose of
permitting vehicles to enter onto or exit from the city streets, without a permit issued by the city manager.
3. Street rights-of-way lines at intersections shall be connected with a curve, the radius of which shall be at least 25 feet.
The required radius may be increased by the city engineer if the increased radius is necessary for public safety.
4. Street grades shall not exceed five percent.
5. Street grades shall not be less than one-half percent wherever feasible.
6. The City of Dover Department of Public Works will not maintain the existing sign that is located in KW Blvd, please
provide assurances that the structure will be maintained by the businesses that utilize the sign.
SANITATION / GROUNDS
1. None.
GENERAL
1. The final site plan must be submitted in the following compatible digital formats:
a. AutoCAD 2004 (.dwg format).
Paj 41
Lands of KW, 1570 N. Dupont Hwy.
File #: SB-13-03
May 29, 2013
Page 3 of 3
b. Adobe Reader (.pdf format).
RECOMMENDATIONS SUGGESTED AS CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL TO MEET CODE OBJECTIVES
ELECTRIC
1. Owner must give the City of Dover Electric Department three (3) months notice prior to construction. Owner is
responsible for following the requirements outlined in the City of Dover’s Electric Service Handbook. The handbook is
now available on the website at the following link:
http://www.cityofdover.com/media/documents/2010%20Electric%20Service%20Handbook.pdf
WATER / WASTEWATER / STORMWATER / SANITATION / GROUNDS / GENERAL
1. None
STREETS
1. The City of Dover would like Crawford Carroll Avenue (from KW Blvd to Rustic Lane) dedicated to the City of Dover.
Our records indicate that Crawford Carroll Avenue is currently within the boundaries of the parcel that is proposed to
be subdivided. This street must meet the following specifications to be dedicated to the City of Dover:
a. Pavement sections must be designed based upon poor soil conditions unless soil boring data is provided showing
otherwise. Structural number calculations must be submitted for review and a pavement cross section detail
must be included within the plan set.
b. All curbing within the right-of-way shall be DelDOT Type III curb and gutter. All curb radii must be labeled on the
plan. In particular, a minimum radius of twenty-five feet (25’) must be provided at all street intersections. A
construction detail of the Type III curb and gutter must be provided on the plan.
c. Sidewalk proposed within the right-of-way shall be constructed as per the City of Dover Standards and
Specifications. All sidewalks must be poured by hand; curb machine slip formed sidewalks will not be permitted.
The sidewalk must be scored in five feet (5’) squares using hand tooled joints. All tool marks shall be removed as
tool finished edges are not permitted. Expansion joints shall be installed at a spacing of twenty feet (20’) and
shall be precut, one-half inch (½ “) thick, four-inch (4”) wide, cork sheets. All sidewalk proposed within the right-
of-way shall consist of Class B concrete, without reinforcing material, in order to prevent future interference with
utility locating. The proposed five feet (5’) wide public sidewalk shall be installed 5 feet from the back of curb.
The sidewalk cross slope shall not exceed 2% including across the driveways to ensure ADA and FHA
compliance. A sidewalk construction detail containing the above information must be provided on the plan.
d. All barrier free access ramps and driveway aprons constructed with the site improvements shall be in accordance
with the most current ADA and DelDOT requirements and standards at the time of construction. To meet cross
slope requirements a five feet (5’) wide grass strip must be provided between a five feet (5’) sidewalk and the
curb.
e. Signage and markings must be included with the site plan in accordance the Manual for Uniform Traffic Control
Devices. Signage proposed for streets to be dedicated to the City of Dover must be included on the plan (no
parking signs, speed limit signs, street blades, stops signs, watch children, etc.) All signs must be installed on
two-inch (2”) square break away sign posts.
2. The City of Dover Department of Public Works will perform visual inspection of the condition of both Crawford Caroll
Avenue and KW Boulevard to assess the road condition, additionally, testing documentation may be required from the
developer. The road condition must meet the Departments requirements prior to acceptance.
ADVISORY COMMENTS TO THE APPLICANT
ELECTRIC / WATER / WASTEWATER / STORMWATER / STREETS / SANITATION / GROUNDS /GENERAL
1. None.
I F Y OU H AVE A NY Q UESTIONS OR N EED TO D ISCUSS ANY OF THE A BOVE C OMMENTS , P LEASE C ALL THE A BOVE
C ONTACT P ERSON AND THE P LANNING D EPARTMENT AS S OON AS P OSSIBLE .
Paj 42
CITY OF DOVER D
E
DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
L
APPLICATION REVIEW COMMENTARY D
O
D.A.C. MEETING DATE: May 29, 2013 T
===============================================================
APPLICATION: Lands of KW Lands at 1570 North Dupont Hwy
FILE#: SB-13-03 REVIEWING AGENCY: DelDOT
CONTACT PERSON: Julio F. Seneus PHONE#: 760-2145
===============================================================
THE SUBJECT PROPOSAL HAS BEEN REVIEWED FOR CODE COMPLIANCE, PLAN CONFORMITY AND COMPLETENESS IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THIS AGENCY'S AUTHORITY AND AREA OF EXPERTISE.
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED AS ELEMENTS WHICH NEED TO BE ADDRESSED BY THE APPLICANT:
CITY & STATE CODE REQUIREMENTS:
1. Per Section 3.6.5 of the Standards and Regulations for Subdivision Streets and
State Highway Access Adopted February 15, 2010, a 100-foot wide right-of-way
(50-feet from the centerline) is required for a minor arterial. According to the
Kent County Classification Maps, KCR 002 (North Dupont Hwy) is classified as
a minor arterial road. If the existing right-of-way does not have the proper width
along the frontage of the site, the department will require 50-feet of right-of-way
dedication from the innermost edge of the through lane for public use.
2. In order to be issued a Letter of No Objection (LONO), the department will
require the applicant to provide the proper forms, fees, and plans.
RECOMMENDATIONS SUGGESTED AS CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL TO MEET CODE
OBJECTIVES:
Due to the location of the existing entrance for Lot 2, a permanent cross-access easement
should be provided on Lot 1 for the use of Lot 2.
ADVISORY COMMENTS TO THE APPLICANT:
If you have any questions or need to discuss any of the above comments, please call the
above contact person and the planning department as soon as possible.
Paj 43
CITY OF DOVER
DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
APPLICATION REVIEW COMMENTARY
JUNE 2013
APPLICATION: Lands of KW Lands
FILE #: SB-13-03
REVIEWING AGENCY: Kent Conservation District
CONTACT PERSON: David C. Cahill PHONE #: 741-2600 ext.3
THE SUBJECT PROPOSAL HAS BEEN REVIEWED FOR CODE COMPLIANCE, PLAN
CONFORMITY AND COMPLETENESS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THIS AGENCY’S AUTHORITY
AND AREA OF EXPERTISE. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED AS ELEMENTS
WHICH NEED TO BE ADDRESSED BY THE APPLICANT:
CITY AND STATE CODE REQUIREMENTS:
1. Kent Conservation District has no objection to the minor subdivision of the above referenced site.
ADVISORY COMMENTS TO THE APPLICANT:
The Following comments are advisory and apply to the development of a detailed site plan for this project.
1. A maintenance agreement must be provided from the parcel owner’s defining who is responsible for the
maintenance of the stormwater facility.
2. A detailed Sediment and Stormwater Management Plan must be approved by our office prior to any land
disturbing activity (i.e. clearing, grading, filling, etc.) over 5000 square feet.
Paj 44
CITY OF DOVER Dover/Kent
DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
County
Metropolitan
APPLICATION REVIEW COMMENTARY Planning
D.A.C. MEETING DATE: June 5, 2013 Organization
APPLICATION: Lands of KW Lands at 1570 North DuPont Highway
FILE #: SB-13-03 REVIEWING AGENCY: Dover/Kent County MPO
CONTACT PERSON: Jim Galvin, AICP PHONE #: (302) 387-6030
The Dover/Kent County MPO has participated in the State’s Preliminary Land Use Services (PLUS) process for several months. The
MPO requested the opportunity to bring the recommendations on issues of our concern to the City as well. The MPO will limit
comments to projects to development proposals and applications that may lead to new development. Issues of concern to the MPO are
effective transit, reducing the amount of vehicle emissions by shortening or eliminating trips, and facilities for alternative modes of
transportation, including bicycle and pedestrian access. The MPO considers the bicycle facilities required by the City of Dover to be
the standard for all applications, not to be waived.
City of Dover Planning Commission June 17, 2013
Project Review
SB-13-03 Lands of KW Lands at 1570 North DuPont Highway
This subdivision application attempts to create three parcels from the current single large parcel with multiple
buildings of similar use and an area of vacant land. The parcel is the location of the Sheraton Hotel at the corner
of US 13 and KW Blvd. it appears that KW Blvd. and the section of Crawford Carol from KW Blvd., South to
Rustic Lane are not within public right of ways and considered private roads. There are sidewalks along the full
length of Crawford Carol adjacent to the parcel. The only sidewalks are located on the perimeter of this parent
parcel are located at the intersection of KW Blvd. and Crawford Carol Boulevard. Sidewalks should be
installed along US 13 in front of the Sheraton Parcel, regardless of sale or ownership. There should also be
sidewalks along the Northwest parcel lines/KW Boulevard connecting US 13 with those along Crawford Carol
Boulevard. The MPO is presently assisting Delaware State University in planning sidewalks along US 13 to
connect the sidewalks at the Lowe’s parcel with those at the plaza that includes HH Gregg and CompUSA. The
combination will create a continuous sidewalk on the west side of US 13 from Cedar Chase Drive to College
Road and beyond. (The CF Schwartz parcel has a stripped access area in front of the cars on display, in
agreement with the City of Dover).
The private section of Crawford Carol Boulevard includes bike lanes as does the remainder of the Crawford
Carol Boulevard right-of-way connecting to Scarborough Road. While not the subject of this application, future
development should consider establishing bicycle facilities in accordance with the City of Dover regulations.
Transit facilities are located on US 13 with southbound bus stops at adjacent parcels and a single northbound
stop located across the highway from the adjacent parcel.
If you have any questions or need to discuss any of the above comments, please call the above contact
person and the Planning Department as soon as possible.
Paj 45
WAIVER REQUEST
K W LANDS / MINOR SUBDIVISION
CITY OF DOVER FILE NUMBER: SB-13-03
BICYCLE PARKING SPACES REQUIREMENT
REQUEST: Reduce the number of bicycle parking spaces required for the Sheraton Inn and Hampton
Inn.
EXTENT OF THE REQUEST: The City of Dover Zoning Code, Article 6 § 3.10 requires bicycle
parking be provided at a rate of one bicycle parking space for
every 20 parking spaces or a fraction thereof. Based on a total of
503 parking spaces for the Sheraton Inn and Hampton Inn
properties (not including existing parking on parcel 2), 26 bicycle
parking spaces are required. The Sheraton Inn and the Hampton
were approved and constructed prior to adoption of Article 6 §
3.10. K W Lands proposes to install a 5 space bike rack at each
hotel.
BASIS FOR REQUEST:
1. The Sheraton Inn and Hampton Inn were approved by the City of
Dover and constructed prior to the Zoning Code requirement for
bicycle parking. Both projects met the zoning requirements at the
time of approval. K W Lands proposes to create a separate parcel
for each hotel. The application does not include any site
improvements; and therefore, the bicycle parking requirement
should not apply to the minor subdivision. However, the
applicant proposes to install a 5 space bike rack at each hotel.
The applicant requests a reduction in the number of required
bicycle parking spaces from 26 to 10.
201308300aj-waiver-bicycle parking
Paj 46
WAIVER REQUEST
K W LANDS / MINOR SUBDIVISION
CITY OF DOVER FILE NUMBER: SB-13-03
SIDEWALK REQUIREMENT
REQUEST: Elimination of sidewalk requirement along North DuPont Highway.
EXTENT OF THE REQUEST: The City of Dover Zoning Code, Article 5 Section 18.1 requires
installation of a sidewalk along the public street frontage for all
development proposals subject to Planning Commission review
and approval. The applicant requests elimination of the
requirement for a sidewalk along North DuPont Highway.
BASIS FOR REQUEST:
1. The City of Dover Zoning Code, Article 5 Section 18.4 allows
Planning Commission to waive the sidewalk requirement
provided the applicant can demonstrate that an undue burden
would be created on a development. The applicant is proposing a
minor subdivision to create a separate parcel for each hotel. The
applicant is not proposing any new site development on the
property. The Zoning Code does not differentiate between
subdividing raw land for development and subdividing an
existing developed property. Requiring construction of the
sidewalk along North DuPont Highway creates an undue
hardship since K W Lands’ application is not a site development
proposal.
201308300ak-waiver-sidewalk
Paj 47
WAIVER REQUEST
K W LANDS / MINOR SUBDIVISION
CITY OF DOVER FILE NUMBER: SB-13-03
30’ ARTERIAL BUFFER REQUIREMENTS
REQUEST: Elimination of the 30 foot wide arterial buffer requirements for the site.
EXTENT OF THE REQUEST: K W Lands proposes a minor subdivision to create three (3)
parcels. The Sheraton Inn, Hampton Inn, parking and other
improvements exists on the property. The subdivision would
create a separate parcel for each hotel. By code, a 30 ft wide
arterial landscape buffer is required along road frontage that is
classified as an arterial road by the Delaware Department of
Transportation. The Sheraton Inn parcel (residual parcel)
includes frontage on North DuPont Highway which is an arterial
road. K W Lands request elimination of the 30 ft. arterial
landscape buffer.
BASIS FOR REQUEST:
1. Article 5, section 7.3 of the City of Dover zoning standards states
that the Planning Commission may approve a lesser amount of
buffering due to physical constraints that may severely limit the
development potential of the property. The Sheraton Inn was
constructed in 1974, with a major addition approved in 1992.
The property was developed prior to adoption of the 30 ft. arterial
landscape buffer requirement. Approximately 36 parking spaces
would need to be eliminated, creating a significant hardship for
the applicant. The applicant request Planning Commission to
eliminate the 30 ft. arterial landscape buffer requirement based on
existing site conditions.
201308300ai-waiver-arterial buffer