DDP Board of Directors Packet

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at 7:30 AM AGENDA ZOOM: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87185621654 Meeting ID: 871 8562 1654 1. Welcome 2. Agenda 3. Minutes (December 2021) 4. Police report – Officer Al Aviles 5. Executive Committee/Staff Updates i. Property Updates ▪ Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing (DIMH) ii. Downtown Dover Strategic Master Plan 6. Committee Reports i. Economic Vitality 7. Legislative Updates i. Senator Trey Paradee ii. Representative Bill Bush 8. City Updates i. Mayor ii. City Council iii. City Manager iv. Planning Director 9. Other Reports i. Bayhealth ii. Delaware State University iii. Kent County Tourism iv. Kent Economic Development 10. Other Business 11. Public Comment 12. Adjourn Next DDP board meeting: Wednesday, February 23, 7:30 a.m. via Zoom Downtown Dover Partnership Board Meeting Agenda December 1, 2021

Scheduled Zoom meeting. Topic: DDP Board Meeting Time: Sep 22, 2021 07:30 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Jan 26, 2022 07:30 AM Feb 23, 2022 07:30 AM Mar 23, 2022 07:30 AM Apr 27, 2022 07:30 AM May 25, 2022 07:30 AM Jun 22, 2022 07:30 AM Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system. Monthly: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/tZMsf- yurDosH9DU8rqYrYrGpYycBnivrQPs/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGvrzMvHNaUthyDRpwEBYqgZ- 7zpn5dgvp5qUf3EhlBWxHRJttbMZBxGc7C Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87185621654 Meeting ID: 871 8562 1654 One tap mobile +13126266799,,87185621654# US (Chicago) +16465588656,,87185621654# US (New York) Dial by your location +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 646 558 8656 US (New York) +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) +1 720 707 2699 US (Denver) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) Meeting ID: 871 8562 1654 Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kcBUPJSAZy Downtown Dover Partnership Board Meeting Agenda December 1, 2021

MINUTES December 1, 2021 Board Meeting via Zoom at 7:30 a. m. DRAFT BOARD MEMBERS AND STAFF: Codi Canasa, Dave Hugg, Councilman Fred Neil, Todd Stonesifer, John Van Gorp, Linda Parkowski, Carla Wilson, Pete Bradley, Councilman Taylor, Michael Casson, Ralph Taylor, Mayor Christiansen, Dawn Melson-Williams COMMITTEE CHAIRS, PRESENTERS, AND OTHER ATTENDEES: Diane Laird, Tina Bradbury, Jordan Resh Call to Order: Chair Todd Stonesifer opened the meeting at 7:32 a.m. Todd announced that Dave Hugg is no longer the Director of Planning, and is now the acting City Manager, and is still a DDP board member. Todd also announced that Al Grinstead has resigned from the board and thanked him for his service. Councilman Neil voted to accept the agenda, Codi Canasa seconded, and the Board unanimously approved. Councilman Neil voted to approve the minutes, Dave Hugg seconded, and the board unanimously approved. John Van Gorp added that he sent edits to Laird for the previous minutes, and that his edits involved grammatical corrections. The board unanimously approved the minutes with the edits provided by Van Gorp. Police Report Officer Aviles was relieved of the role of reporting for the policed department this meeting. Stonesifer added that there has been minimal police-involved activity downtown. Dave Hugg motioned to move into executive session. Councilman Neil seconded, and the board unanimously approved to move to executive session. Stonesifer did not join the executive session due to a conflict of interest. Mayor Christiansen led the Executive Session. Executive Session held. Canasa motioned to move out of Executive Session, Councilman Neil seconded, and the board voted unanimously to approve. Stonesifer joined the regular session before voting, and Adams and Melson-Williams joined, as well. Recommendation: The DDP will decline the offer on the AutoPlus property to allow for recommendations to be made as part of the Strategic Master Plan. Councilman Neil motioned to accept the recommendation, and Dave Hugg seconded. The board voted unanimously to approve, except for Stonesifer who abstained from voting. DRAFT December 1, 2021 – DDP Board Meeting 1

Parkowski asked if the property was listed as “for sale,” and Stonesifer said the property is currently listed, but that the sign should be removed until the Strategic Master Plan is completed. Executive Committee Stonesifer re-introduced Jordan Resh, a hire of a few months to the DDP. Stonesifer explained that after the hire of a third employee, the DDP’s space has become too small to function for the present staff and visiting guests. Stonesifer suggested that the DDP move to a larger space and noted that the increase in square footage will cause an increase in rent. The additional cost in rent is $684 per month – increasing the monthly rent from $906.93 to $1576.46. Laird explained that during Zoom meetings and meetings with clients, the current space is small and lacks privacy. Laird believes that as the Strategic Master Planning process advances, anticipated additional meetings will benefit from closed rooms and access to a small conference room. Laird explained that the rent for the new room will include three parking spaces (versus two), as well as the ongoing benefits of electrical access to the door and equipment, and access to the building’s public spaces. Laird added that while the space will have additional cost there is funding available from unused staff training funds. Stonesifer shared that the CenDel building includes properties that are market-rate or lower, and including the storage space, the rent is lower than similar rental properties. Parkowski asked if the new rental space would be able to be expanded. Stonesifer shared that the additional conference room and office space could serve as extra office spaces as the DDP continues to grow. Laird shared that because of the cost difference, moving to the new space does not require a vote from the board, but Laird wanted to ensure that members were informed and consenting. Stonesifer and the Executive Committee approved the move... Finances Bradbury shared that the unemployment tax was not budgeted but will be added to the budget by Mitten and Winters. Bradbury assured this cost would not exceed the allotted $3,000, but that the DDP may have to pay a higher rate than anticipated. Bradbury shared that the $37,000 in the insurance line number 35 is an annual payment that will cover the DDP through the entire fiscal year. Bradbury also shared that Line 44 reflects the cost of the current office space rental. Bradbury also shared that Line 15 is not on the recommended FY 22 budget because an emergency repair was needed at 120 S Governors St. Bradbury added that this expenditure puts the costs over budget, and without this expense, the DDP would be under budget. Councilman Neil asked if there are any programs that will offset the expenditures from the DDP. Bradbury shared that funding is pending through the State Legislature. Laird added that there are requests for the City for additional funds (ARPA funding requests) – but that many of the ARPA requests are not possible because DDP projects largely do not qualify. Property Updates Laird added that Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing (DIMH) requested relocation of DIMH to a property on Division St., and that the City approved. Laird shared that Interfaith will transition to a month-to-month lease starting Jan 1,as their lease will be up on December 31, 2021. Laird added that the property they are currently on is zoned suitably for agricultural, hydroponics, and/or sustainable business. Mayor Christiansen, Dr. Casson, and Dawn Melson-Williams left the meeting. DRAFT December 1, 2021 – DDP Board Meeting 2

Strategic Master Plan Stonesifer shared a history of the development of the Downtown Strategic Master Plan RFP process to date: In June 2021, the DDP issued a request for proposal to the American Planning Association (APA), the DE Planning Association (DEPA), local media, and the DDP web page. The DDP received seven proposals that were reviewed by an ad-hoc review panel including DDP members and community leaders. Twenty plus leaders were invited to participate as review panelists or readers, and 11 chose to participate in the full process. Three shortlisted candidates were asked to present on-site to the ad-hoc committee after a review of all seven responses. The committee met to discuss the candidates and chose unanimously to move forward with Mosaic Development Partners. The Mosaic team is diverse, led by a developer (instead of planners), with experience in blighted neighborhoods, and were deemed the best of all the responders. Stonesifer added that the fee for Mosaic is $200,000, which is beyond the $90,000 originally budgeted for the SMP. Because the proposal is more than initially contemplated, Stonesifer suggested that the developers be paid over two fiscal years (FY22 and FY23). Stonesifer shared that the DDP is aiming for eight- to ten years for significant redevelopment and transformation of downtown Dover with an 8-month development process. Stonesifer encouraged participants to imagine the Wilmington Riverfront’s progress from junkyard to popular attraction as an example of the potential for downtown Dover’s development. Stonesifer expressed support for the DDP to hire Mosaic Development Partners for redevelopment of Dover, and shared that this decision is supported by the DDP’s Economic Vitality committee, as well. Laird shared that the City of Dover and Economic Vitality Committee has $90,000 available for the SMP. Laird recommended that $70,000 come from this year’s budget, and that the remaining funds come from next year’s budget. Councilman Neil added that the developers will “bring money” to downtown. Stonesifer added that Mosaic presented a knowledge of tax credits and state and federal funds that would be useful in funding their projects. Laird added that Mosaic is successful at financial and philosophical buy-ins from the community at all levels. Laird added that one of the developers is an attorney and is knowledgeable about funding available. Stonesifer emphasized that community buy-in generates unique support for the project by allowing the community to share ownership over properties and the success of downtown. Stonesifer recommended that the DDP hire the Mosaic Development Partners to oversee the Strategic Master Plan development of downtown Dover. Councilman Neil motioned to approve Stonesifer’s recommendation. Linda Parkowski seconded the motion, and the board voted unanimously to approve. Stonesifer added that the contractual agreement will work with Mosaic to develop a contract for signature. Councilman Taylor asked about the timeline for Mosaic’s involvement downtown. Councilman Taylor added that he has a deadline for March 2022 for the St. Jones River Walk and said that funds may be available from his project to fund Mosaic’s work. Stonesifer said that Mosaic’s work is an eight-month timeline, and that two months may be too soon to coordinate efforts. Laird added that the contract is expected to be signed in December, with community outreach to start in January, and the Strategic Plan to be completed in August. Laird added that discussions and output from Mosaic will start early and could possibly be used to inform decisions made for the St. Jones River Walk. Stonesifer thanked Representative Andria Bennett who is not a committee member of the DDP but was an advocate for the project and helped the DDP acquire the $70,000 from the legislature. Committee Reports Parking DRAFT December 1, 2021 – DDP Board Meeting 3

Stonesifer noted that everything has been approved for the DDP’s work with Colonial Parking. He further added that the project’s “emergency break” has been engaged, so there are no plans to move forward due to the current state of the pandemic and the affect its had on downtown merchants. He also added that the Master Plan process will work closely with the parking project to see if any changes are necessary. Stonesifer added that there is no plan to disengage the “emergency breaks” of the project at any time. City N/A Mayor Christiansen added that he and Hugg will meet with people building downtown’s new Family Court building, and that the building will be used to anchor the strategic development plan. Christiansen also added that the construction of the post office is moving along successfully. Stonesifer added that the new Family Court complex will be located on the northeast corner of Governors St and Water St. Christiansen also said that there are discussions to include a parking garage for the Family Court complex. Councilman Neil added a compliment to Colonial Parking for their attitude and willingness to work with the DDP cooperatively. City Council Councilman Taylor mentioned the St. Jones Riverwalk, and a desire to coordinate efforts for various projects downtown. Councilman Taylor noted the dawdling ordinance from the City of Dover, which is aimed at promoting safety downtown, but that he does not anticipate that there is sufficient support. Councilman Taylor added that the police and the City Council are still working at promoting safety for shops downtown. Councilman Neil added his support of the Riverwalk, and provided an update on downtown lighting. Councilman Neil noted that the smart lighting system has a faulty control system, and once updated, the lighting will work and will promote safety downtown. Dr. Casson left the meeting. City Manager Hugg mentioned that Dover Days are being discussed. Hugg also mentioned that a committee was formed for ARPA requests to City – including potential funding for community services and housing. Hugg added that the city submitted a consolidated request to the Governor’s office focused on improving various assistance programs happening downtown. Laird added that the DDP is meeting regularly with DSU to understand and support their short-and long-term uses for their downtown properties. Stonesifer added that the beer garden called The Rail Haus on West St. has passed the planning commission. Stonesifer noted his strong support. Hugg added that NCALL is conducting new construction and demolition for housing and projects downtown. Stonesifer added that after two meetings that the DDP initiated with the DSU leadership team on the DSU downtown campus, their relationship has been developing well, and stated that the relationship with DSU has already surpassed the relationship that existed between the DDP and Wesley College. Stonesifer added that there is an “Open the Schwartz” initiative, and that DSU recruited an employee who rebirthed a theater in Harlem, and the new employee hopes to make the Schwartz center a vital part of the downtown community. Stonesifer mentioned the DDP’s use of the Schwartz at the Cartoon Christmas Trio and strongly supports the reactivation of the theater. Linda Parkowski left the meeting. DRAFT December 1, 2021 – DDP Board Meeting 4

Stonesifer added that the desire to have the DSU shuttle move downtown is under consideration and that it will encourage students and faculty to engage with shops and services downtown. Stonesifer added that a “Spirit Store” is being discussed for downtown, to encourage people to purchase DSU memorabilia even if they do not visit the main campus. Laird added that the DSU President Allen has requested scheduling of a monthly meeting so that the DDP and DSU can continue to work closely together to realize one another’s goals as both groups work on their Strategic Plans. Kent County Tourism Bradley added that on Nov. 9, Kent County Levy Court approved ARPA grant for housing and small businesses and that logistics are being worked out. Bradley had hoped to use same application portal DE used for DE Relief Grant but was informed last week that this is not possible. Bradley shared that yesterday he participated in a promising call with another portal provider. Bradley shared that their goal was to have the portal ready in December, but he expects the portal to be ready in January and that the funds can be distributed shortly after its launch. Stonesifer asked how he expects the funds allocated to small businesses to be distributed. Bradley shared that he expects there could be 2,000 applications, and they will be required to share their 2019 tax returns to prove a loss of revenue. Bradley continued, sharing that those applicants will then be approved by various parties for their credentials. Bradley shared that if the $3 million allotted is used, there may be additional funds given to the initiative. Bradley shared those smaller businesses will be given a greater percentage of the funds. Bradley shared that he believes this process is streamlined and well documented. Other Business Stonesifer encouraged everyone to attend December 3rd First Friday celebrations, held simultaneously with the Capital Holiday Annual Tree Lighting. Mayor Christiansen encouraged everyone to attend the Dashing Through Downtown Dover Parade on December 11th at 6 p.m. Laird added that at First Friday December 3rd, Gastro Graffiti and Sweets and Treats will have food trucks in Loockerman Plaza. Stonesifer added that Destination Downtown Dover’s event called OktDoverFest was successful, and two future events were approved for the 1st Saturday of May 2022 – History Heritage and Hops music and beer festival as well as for the 2nd Saturday of October 2022 – another OktDoverFest. Stonesifer added that both events typically have thousands (five to ten thousand) of visitors, especially when larger acts are featured. Public Comments: N/A Call to Adjourn: Canasa motioned to adjourn the meeting and Councilman Taylor seconded, the Board voted unanimously to adjourn at 8:50 a.m. JR/DJL DRAFT December 1, 2021 – DDP Board Meeting 5