CCW MINUTES and ATTACHMENT

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE The Council Committee of the Whole met on April 26, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. with Council President Sudler presiding. Members of Council present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Boggerty, Mr. Neil, Dr. Pillsbury, Mrs. Arndt, Mr. Rocha, Mr. Taylor, and Mr. Hare. Mayor Christiansen was also present. Civilian members present for their Committee meetings were Ms. Jackson and Mr. Shelton (via video) (Safety, Advisory, and Transportation), and Mr. Shevock (Legislative, Finance, and Administration). Mr. Contant (Legislative, Finance, and Administration) was absent. ADOPTION OF AGENDA Mr. Boggerty moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Neil. Mr. Anderson moved to postpone the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee Agenda until May 10, 2022. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hare and unanimously carried. Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda as amended, seconded by Mr. Anderson and unanimously carried. SAFETY, ADVISORY, AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE The Safety, Advisory, and Transportation Committee met with Chairman Taylor presiding. Mr. Taylor asked Reverend Rita Paige to open the meeting in prayer. Adoption of Agenda Mr. Taylor asked for a motion to move Item #5 - Discussion of Interfaith Mission for Housing location on Division Street to #1. Dr. Pillsbury moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried. Discussion of Interfaith Mission Location on Division St. (Councilman Taylor) Mr. Taylor explained Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing (DIMH) was offered a property located on Division Street, the property is near the bus station, hospital, and food establishments. Mr. Taylor further explained DIMH has declined the offer to move to Division Street property and stay at their current location. Mr. Taylor stated he believed in DIMH mission but will not support the current property once it reaches the planning phase. Mr. Taylor stated he believes the current property is too close to a playground where children travel, and the Fourth District should not be stressed with DIMH’s missions. Mr. Neil clarified that the property on Division Street is currently used by Dover Police Department for an impound lot. Mr. Neil stated, the property cost the city $200,000 to move from Schutte Park and include additional security. Mr. Neil explained he did not feel the property was the ideal location. Mr. Neil further explained the property would be expensive to relocate and provide security at a new location. Mr. Neil stated he would support DIMH in their decision.

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 26, 2022 PAGE 2 Mayor Christiansen stated, he spoke with a representative of DIMH and has heard there are environmental issues with the old Auto Sales property. Mr. Sudler clarified that the old Auto Sales property was rezoned for a certain type of development in that area. Mr. Sudler further explained the property was rezoned based on the comprehensive plan not for DIMH specifically. Mr. Sudler stated he did not support the location for DIMH to be in the Fourth District. Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Neil stated the city spent roughly $200,000 to move the impound lot to its current location on Division St. next to the Dover Police Station. Mr. Neil further explained if DIMH took that property the city would need to relocate the impound lot at an additional expense. Mr. Hare stated he did not believe Division Street to be a good location. Mr. Hare explained, he had spoken to the owner of the Motel 6 on Route 13 across from the Olive Garden. The owner is amenable to selling the property to DIMH. Mr. Hare believed that DIMH could potentially make income by renting rooms for state voucher use. Presentation - Residential Fire Sprinklers (Paul Eichler, Delaware Fire Sprinkler Coalition) Mr. Paul Eichler, Delaware Fire Sprinkler Coalition reviewed the presentation entitled Delaware Fire Sprinkler Coalition: An Overview. Responding to Mr. Boggerty, Mr. Eichler stated to add sprinklers to an existing house would cost 3 to 4 dollars a square foot. Mr. Eichler explained that it would not entail tearing out ceilings or walls. Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mr. Eichler stated the City of Seaford allows a $3,000 permit discount for new constructions. Mr. Eichler explained if a home is being renovated higher than 50 percent the City of Seaford allows another discount program for permits. Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Eichler stated once the sprinkler system is installed there is no need for annual inspections or maintenance of the system. Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mayor Christiansen stated some jurisdictions require home sprinkler systems to be inspected and tested once a year by a licensed sprinkler company to maintain an insurance rate reduction. Responding to Mr. Boggerty, Mr. Eichler stated malfunctions are very rare, however insurance companies do cover just like if it were a broken plumbing pipe inside the home. Responding to Mr. Boggerty, Mr. Eichler stated for any maintenance there is a group of approved sprinkler contractors for the state of Delaware. All contractors are approved through the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Mr. Eichler further explained that a licensed plumber can fit and repair the regular piping for the sprinkler system. Proposed Ordinance #2022-04 - Chapter 106 - Traffic and Vehicles, Section 106-17 - Truck Routes (Sharon Duca, Assistant City Manager) Ms. Sharon Duca, Assistant City Manager, reviewed the background and analysis of the Proposed Ordinance #2022-04 - Chapter 106 - Traffic and Vehicles, Section 106-17 - Truck Routes.

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 26, 2022 PAGE 3 Staff recommended the adoption of the ordinance as presented. Responding to Mr. Anderson, Ms. Duca stated the city did not do a study of traffic, however with the addition of POW/MIA Parkway to the city creates a major ground from south to north to Route 1 from Route 13, crossing through the city through a lot of industrial areas. Ms. Duca suggested the city could consider the addition of POW/MIA Parkway would reduce the need for Governors Avenue altogether. Ms. Duca further explained that the Dover Code of Ordinances provides for trucks of three axles and more to be able to make localized deliveries if they have a purpose on that ground. Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mayor Christiansen stated the city has received numerous complaints regarding the regular mode of traffic on Governors Avenue. Mayor Christiansen explained that even though Governors Avenue is designated as United States Route 13 Alternate the city should consider the number of students Delaware State University will have on campus, the other schools in the area, and the civilian population that lives on Governors Avenue. Responding to Mr. Neil, Ms. Duca stated that a new road such as a connection to the air terminal route, Route 9, and White Oak Road would come forward as development plans come forward. Responding to Mr. Neil, Mayor Christiansen stated as the Chairman of the Dover/Kent County Metropolitan Planning Organization, which lays out a lot of the roads and future traffic needs of the city, there is a connector route that is planned to run adjacent to Garrison Oak. Mayor Christiansen explained Dover/Kent MPO is also looking at putting a cloverleaf on the on-ramp to Route One to compliment that route which is a very vital part of economic development. Mayor Christiansen further explained that there is a study currently going on that is an east-west connector road that runs from the City of Dover and connects with Route 15. Responding to Mr. Boggerty, Mayor Christiansen stated the Dover Police Department has received several calls on the issue of trucks in the Acorn Farms Area. Mayor Christiansen stated the Dover Police Department and Dover/Kent MPO are looking into the issue. Mr. Anderson moved to refer Proposed Ordinance #2022-04 - Chapter 106 - Traffic and Vehicles, Section 106-17 - Truck Routes to staff to discuss concerns about extending Governors Avenue as a Truck Route The motion was seconded by Mr. Boggerty and unanimously carried. Request for Waiver - Appendix A - Subdivisions, Article VI - Subdivision – General Requirements and Design Standards, Section A - Streets (Right-of-Way known as Raymond Street and Railroad Avenue) - Waiver of Requirements for the Reduction of the Minimum Street Right-of-Way Width, Increase in Maximum Length of a Dead-End Street (Cul-de-Sac), and the Elimination of Sidewalk on One Side of a Public Street associated with a Site Development Plan for the improvements to the rights-of-way of Raymond Street and Railroad Avenue to allow for further development of the properties that these streets will give access. Ms. Dawn Melson-Williams reviewed the background and analysis of Request for Waiver - Appendix A - Subdivisions, Article VI - Subdivision – General Requirements and Design Standards, Section A - Streets (Right-of-Way known as Raymond Street and Railroad Avenue) - Waiver of Requirements for the Reduction of the Minimum Street Right-of-Way Width, Increase in Maximum Length of a Dead-End Street (Cul-de-Sac), and the Elimination of Sidewalk on One Side of a Public Street

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 26, 2022 PAGE 4 associated with a Site Development Plan for the improvements to the rights-of-way of Raymond Street and Railroad Avenue to allow for further development of the properties that these streets will give access. The Planning Commission recommended approval with Conditions of the Request to Reduce the Minimum Street Right-of-Way Width, Increase in Maximum Length of a Dead-End Street, and the Elimination of Sidewalk on One Side of a Public Street. Responding to Mr. Neil, Ms. Dawn Melson-Williams stated the area is located on the north side of College Road and has a mix of residential zoning. Zoning would allow for the single-family detached structure. Ms. Melson-Williams explained the area to the north, is a large tract of land that includes zoning for multifamily residential zones. Ms. Melson-Williams stated she believed the owner ultimately wanted to place an apartment complex project. Ms. Melson-Williams further explained the first step is what staff recommended, to ensure that you can get there through a road network. Ms. Melson-Williams further explained the need to try to establish a road network that meets, as best it can, the provisions of today's code, given that the road system and adjacent lots were originally laid out well over a hundred years ago at this point. Dr. Wilma Mishoe, address is 353 Rita Wilma Road, the adjacent Raymond Street, and Jason Street. Dr. Mishoe stated she was here to ask questions because she was not clear specifically in terms of the locations where they are asking for exceptions. Dr. Mishoe explained she owned the property on Raymond Street, and her family owns property all the way down to where she believed Railroad Avenue is supposed to be. Dr. Mishoe asked where is the Railroad Avenue they are proposing to be built? Responding to Dr. Mishoe, Ms. Melson-Williams stated Railroad Avenue is parallel to the railroad tracks that are there. Ms. Melson-Williams explained if you stand at the end of Raymond Street and look towards the railroad, Raymond Street would continue into what would be become Railroad Avenue and continue to the north. Ms. Melson-Williams further explained, that Railroad Avenue runs parallel to the railroad tracks and extends to the north, the only access to Railroad Avenue is through Raymond Street. Responding to Dr. Mishoe and Mr. Anderson, Ms. Melson-Williams stated the Dover Code of Ordinances requires sidewalks on both sides of a public street. She explained if it is a new street being constructed, that is part of the street section, it includes the sidewalk, the curb, and then the paved area where you park or travel. Ms. Melson-Williams further explained in the case of this road, they are designed to provide a sidewalk at least on one side of the road network, where there is space available. Ms. Melson-Williams stated the waiver that they are seeking is to not construct a sidewalk on what would be the west side of Railroad Avenue. The east side of Railroad Avenue, adjacent to where there are existing properties that could be developed, is where a sidewalk would be installed. Ms. Melson- Williams further explained the applicant is seeking relief on the side of that roadway that is adjacent to the railroad corridor. In thinking that is probably not where people would want to be walking, nor does it make sense for any pedestrian connections to be encouraged, because of that railroad corridor. Mr. Greg Rishel, Licensed Landscape Architect, Pennoni Associates stated due to the layout of the existing street the only available room to provide a sidewalk is on the south side of the street and the

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 26, 2022 PAGE 5 existing Raymond Street has additional extra width paving that goes outside of the actual existing right of way. Mr. Rishel explained a sidewalk on this side would be on private property. Going up along Railroad Avenue, a sidewalk is proposed on the site, the side of the applicant's properties, where development is being contemplated. Mr. Rishel further explained the other side of that right of way is directly adjacent to the railroad, with fencing, and any sidewalk that would be on that side would essentially just terminate. Mr. Rishel stated to simplify things, they proposed a sidewalk on the east side of Railroad Avenue, that will come down to Raymond Street, where you could cross at a safe crosswalk. Mr. Rishel stated they coordinated with the city subdivision advisory committee on locations, and then a new sidewalk along Raymond Street to connect to the existing sidewalk in Mishoe Avenue. Mr. Neil moved to recommend postponing the Request for Waiver - Appendix A - Subdivisions, Article VI - Subdivision – General Requirements and Design Standards, Section A - Streets (Right-of-Way known as Raymond Street and Railroad Avenue) - Waiver of Requirements for the Reduction of the Minimum Street Right-of-Way Width, Increase in Maximum Length of a Dead-End Street (Cul-de-Sac), and the Elimination of Sidewalk on One Side of a Public Street associated with a Site Development Plan for the improvements to the rights-of-way of Raymond Street and Railroad Avenue to allow for further development of the properties that these streets will give access until Council can review the rights of way related to Dr. Wilma Mishoe's property. The motion was seconded by Mr. Rocha and unanimously carried. Addition of a Police Substation in Downtown Dover (Councilman Taylor and Chief Johnson) Mr. Taylor reviewed the background and analysis of the addition of a police substation in downtown Dover. Chief Johnson stated there is no doubt that the Dover Police Department and the command staff absolutely understand the connectivity between not only the reality but the perception of safety and its impact on the business climate. Chief Johnson explained that fixed position, brick and mortar police stations, have limited utility for what the city is trying to accomplish. Chief Johnson explained that once a station is established history has shown that the problem moves just far enough away to be out of sight and sound of where that mini station is, and therefore, you either push the problem or only provide a relatively brief respite. Chief Johnson further explained Dover Police Department would need to staff a station for it to be effective, for not only the idea of being able to respond to something that occurs in proximity but for the projection of a police presence there, it now becomes a refuge and any individual that would be seeking police support and police refuge, they need to find that resource there when they get to that property or that location, that advertises the same. Chief Johnson stated it would be a challenge to explain why someone who might not be completely aware of the larger dynamic ended up suffering harm because Dover Police were not there to meet the need after they had established their presence. Chief Johnson stated that if resources and a strategy are determined by the municipal leadership to focus on the presence of police in that area, and are willing to fund that, he explained he would need additional officers. Chief Johnson expressed he would prefer the additional officers that would have staffed the substation and instead keep them mobile both on their feet and potentially in a vehicle so they can be hyper-focused on the Loockerman Street corridor and the connecting neighborhoods. Chief Johnson further explained if the ultimate issue is to invest and to put resources in the downtown

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 26, 2022 PAGE 6 that are truly dedicated, he requested to have the flexibility to keep the officers mobile so they can have impacts on the Governor’s corridor, the New Street corridor, Queen Street, and not just necessarily the concentrated location of Bradford and Loockerman. Responding to Dr. Pillsbury, Chief Johnson stated the authorized strength of the Dover Police Department is 106 officers. Chief Johnson explained that with the class in the academy and the retirees in August they will be staffed with 101-102 officers. Chief Johnson further explained the more recent best practices data discusses staffing your missions. He stated that Dover Police Department’s authorized strength of 106 officers, and right now he can staff and keep up with the volume demands of all the established missions. Responding to Dr. Pillsbury, Chief Johnson stated regarding patrol officers there is at least eight and can be as many as twelve officers on duty. Chief Johnson explained factoring in specialty units such as street crimes, motorcycles, community policing, and that nature, in certain times of the day, in the current established model of operations, there could be twenty to twenty-four officers in uniform available for a crisis. Responding to Mr. Boggerty, Chief Johnson stated the substation would need to be administrative only, to temporarily house a prisoner or for transportation they would need to follow Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). Chief Johnson explained the more Council would like the building to become the more expensive it will be. He further explained that housing and transportation would be more of a precinct house than a basic office location. Responding to Mr. Boggerty, Chief Johnson stated the proposed site of the substation is between a third and half-mile from the current police station. Chief Johnson explained that if the officers were responding from the police station to the proposed site it would take roughly two and a half minutes. Responding to Mr. Anderson, Chief Johnson stated mobile police substations are either service-related vehicles, information vehicles, community engagement vehicles, or logistics-related type vehicles to help organize major events or complex police actions. Chief Johnson explained if Council is looking for a deterrent presence, the marked patrol car sends that message. He stated the mobile mini station’s purpose is to attract the citizens you serve and the residents you serve to that mobile vehicle for engagement. Chief Johnson further explained if Council is looking to create a presence it is an on-duty police officer ready to take enforcement actions. Responding to Mr. Rocha, Chief Johnson stated that the community policing unit, does patrol in the downtown area and it is a disproportionate amount, the unit makes visits that include foot patrols, connections with stakeholders, and visiting the Downtown Dover Partnership. Sometimes it is a uniformed officer or a cadet. Chief Johnson stated that in complete transparency, Dover Police Department has been having a hard time keeping the cadet positions staffed. Chief Johnson stated in March, two cadets working together were able to make forty-six separate enforcement actions. Responding to Mr. Rocha, Chief Johnson stated he could backfill the cadet positions with uniformed officers, however other areas may suffer. Chief Johnson explained he worries about transferring manpower from point A to point B and about the adverse effect in the area that he took the officers out of to go to another mission.

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 26, 2022 PAGE 7 Responding to Mr. Rocha, Chief Johnson stated regarding panhandling and making arrests related to that type of activity is very difficult. Chief Johnson explained the articulation of it, the cooperation of the victim or witness, is the somewhat subjective issue that might come up in court. Chief Johnson further explained the local problem when they take enforcement action ends up colliding with a larger debate discussion and dynamic, on what to do with people in at-risk populations that are involved in this kind of behavior and is using law enforcement as the tool the best answer. Mr. Sudler stated he believes that the city does need to use the mini mobile police station right now to create a stronger police presence, which had been discussed. Mr. Sudler explained that until Council establishes a brick and mortar or decides that they want brick and mortar, they must bring some type of relief to downtown. Mr. Sudler further explained whether it is brick and mortar, which he is in favor of, or the mobile police station, which Council was in favor of before the brick and mortar in 2021, he is in favor of both, whichever comes first. Mr. Sudler stated he believed that their constituents will be paying the bill and a tremendous part in this process should determine what they want. Mr. Sudler stated he was aggressively panhandled, and that he supports a no panhandling policy in the City of Dover. Mr. Sudler further explained he knows it is illegal, but feels times have changed since COVID 19, with social distancing, and a rise in mental health issues. Mr. Sudler stated he felt it is just not safe to have panhandling. Responding to Ms. Arndt, Mr. Alex Mackler, Chief Deputy Attorney General thanked Council for inviting him to participate. Mr. Mackler explained panhandling and deteriorating downtown is not a Dover issue or a Delaware issue, it is a national issue. Mr. Mackler stated when looking at getting resources to a particular area Council should look at all resources such as mental health services and social services, not just police. Mr. Mackler advised Council to heed Chief Johnson’s warning of a police substation downtown and following CALEA. Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Mackler stated once a person reaches the Attorney General’s Office, the courts have other resources they try to provide to find a just result, for example, mental health court or other sorts of treatment options. Michael J. Harrington Sr. owns numerous properties in the downtown area, State Street, and Bradford Street. Mr. Harrington, Sr. stated he owns 33 West Loockerman, the new home of the future La Hacienda. Mr. Harrington, Sr. explained as a landlord he cannot keep any tenants in the downtown area. Constantly, over top of 33 West, he owns several offices, and when tenants come down next to that package store, they are being accosted in one way or another, without being specific. Mr. Harrington further explained he will sign a lease with a tenant, and receive a deposit, and within 30 days, the tenant is begging to be let out of their lease. Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mr. Harrington Sr. stated the reason given is, being panhandled. He explained from a female standpoint, being touched. Mr. Harrington Sr. further explained tenants are forced almost, to give money, so that they do not get robbed. Dr. Pillsbury states she had rented space above where La Hacienda is going to go and the people that she had working with her were very uncomfortable coming there, particularly once the sunsets. She stated it was not as bad during the daytime hours. Dr. Pillsbury further explained when running for office, a lot of the volunteers are only available in the evening, and she had a lot of anxiety among people and difficulty getting volunteers to come downtown.

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 26, 2022 PAGE 8 Tina Bradbury, Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP), and Todd Stonesifer, President of the DDP read a letter from DDP and other businesses in the area in support of the Police Substation Attachment #1. Sam Chick, 115 West Lookerman Street. Mr. Chick stated he has been a downtown resident for 12 years and a downtown property and business owner for five years. Mr. Chick believed that Dover can be different, Mr. Chick explained other cities have done it, they have revitalized it. Mr. Chick explained Dover needs to fix the crime problem. Mr. Chick stated the crime is downtown and that is where resources need to be. Mr. Chick stated he is highly in favor of a dedicated police presence. Mr. Chick stated he has been the victim of innumerable crimes: property crimes, crimes against his person, customers who have been the victim of crimes, and his residential neighbors. Mr. Chick has witnessed break-ins, vandalism, littering, assaults, sexual assaults, drug activity, fornication, and has cleaned up human feces and bodily fluids. Mr. Chick further explained he had someone pull a knife on him. Mr. Chick stated he had a shoplifter in his store, the shoplifter was reported arrested, and given a summons. Mr. Chick explained that roughly three hours later, the same shoplifter stabbed someone at 7-Eleven and that store is now shut down. Fleur Mckendell, President of the Central Delaware NAACP stated the area in which a substation is being proposed is riddled with poverty, homelessness, and people suffering from mental illness and substance abuse issues. Ms. McKendell requested Council to present the constituents with fact-based data to support how an additional police station will support the people in that area. Ms. McKendell agreed with Chief Johnson that the substation will move the problem to another area. Ms. McKendell stated she was unclear if increased policing reduces crime rather than just responds to it, and if there were any declines in crime, they would have to be weighed against the downsides of adding more police officers, including negative interactions with the public, police violence towards a citizen, the opportunity costs, which are initiatives that we are giving up funding the additional substation. Ms. McKendell explained that since Chief Johnson's onboarding the NAACP and members of the greater Dover community have worked with him and his officers to build a climate of trust with the police. Ms. McKendell further explained that policing without restorative transformation solutions will do nothing but walk back the little progress that we have made since 2020. Lachelle Paul, 55 Glenn Street, Dover, Delaware stated in January of 2020 the constituents said they wanted a mini mobile substation to address crime. Ms. Paul explained that the business owners over at Downtown Dover Partnership did not care what kind of protection it was, they all agreed that the mini mobile substation was what was supposed to take place. Alani Ray, Camden, Delaware, representing Smart Justice, stated a substation in downtown Dover would have detrimental effects on the community. Ms. Ray explained more policing means more arrests and citations that will exacerbate poverty. Ms. Ray expressed she felt that we cannot reach the goal of attracting new businesses until we first address the communities that are already here. Ms. Ray stated if Dover created more police for every community that is struggling as Chief Johnson had mentioned, all we would be doing is creating more disadvantaged communities than thriving ones. Ms. Ray quoted Delaware Online that the median rent for the Dover resident is $1,000 and the annual income in Dover is $22,481. Ms. Ray asked that Council consider other ways to build downtown to be both a respite for seniors and expand and build with overall greater Dover, without expanding police

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 26, 2022 PAGE 9 in our communities. Could we be directing these funds that would be given to the substation to community programs, job funding, and intervention services? Quasi Asante, 600 West Business Street, has owned a business for 21 years. Mr. Asante stated historically the city has always tried to fight crime by adding more police and he feels it has never worked. Mr. Asante explained there is a direct correlation between poverty and crime, and you fight crime through education, jobs, and overall closing the wealth gap. Mr. Asante believes the city needs more therapists not police. Mr. Asante believes that a police substation will simply move crime. Mr. Asante stated the money from a police substation could be used to fund educational programs, job preparation, community programs, after-school transportation, and tutoring. Diane Talley, Dover, Delaware expressed that for most individuals and communities of color policing has brought terror, rather than safety. Ms. Talley stated Police budgets, militarization, and numbers have increased by billions over the years, but violence and crime have not decreased. Ms. Talley stated Chief Johnson said that the substation will be a refuge, she did not feel that black and poor people find refuge in an increased police presence. Ms. Talley stated the concern about homelessness and panhandling should create more places for people to go get resources, to get them back on their feet or mobile resources that go around and address areas of need in our communities. Ms. Talley stated the problems that are there could be fixed if more tax dollars, money, and resources were allocated towards education, healthcare, housing, career, and youth programming. Brandy Walker, 32 West Lookerman Street, private counseling practice, stated the need to increase self-sufficiency. Ms. Walker stated she agreed with the educational, mental health, and homelessness comments. Ms. Walker explained that the community needs to address this issue first. Tara Brant, Black Swamp Artisanal Market, 204 West Loockerman Street. Ms. Brant stated on Saturday, she had a gentleman come into her store and exposed himself to her and two days ago he did it again at another store. Ms. Brant stated she filed a police report and sent the video from our security cameras. Ms. Brant explained her store is trying to fill a gap in a food desert by providing local, sustainable food sources to the community of downtown Dover and they are struggling. Ms. Brant stated her customers do not feel safe parking and they cannot provide help to the community if they do not feel comfortable coming into their store. Ms. Brant explained she is trying to increase the customer base by accepting EBT. Justin Brant, Black Swamp Artisanal Market, 204 West Loockerman Street. Mr. Brant stated that victimless crimes and low-level crimes are being prosecuted and dangerous criminals are released. Mr. Brant stated that he has had people coming from the hospital onto the Loockerman, knocking on the door, to get help. Mr. Brant stated he called 911 to get somebody who passed out at the old hardware store across the street on Governors Avenue because he passed out while walking from the hospital. Mr. Brant stated that the Police Department needs to enforce the laws that they have. Enrico Stratton-Bay, Felton, DE, community service in Dover Delaware stated he has and the 10,000 Fearless to go into the community, teach, and train people on how to meet and overcome the obstacles that are in the community. Mr. Stratton-Bay did not feel the need for increased police presence. He felt the need for individuals that are compassionate and care about what is going on in their own community. Mr. Stratton-Bay stated the individuals that are a part of the community must be the solution.

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 26, 2022 PAGE 10 Mr. Boggerty stated that the community and Council need to learn to engage in the new normal. Mr. Boggerty suggested that they need to come together to find out what will make downtown thrive. Mr. Boggerty shared that he visited downtown Middletown, they have theaters and outside restaurants. Mr. Boggerty suggested partnering with Delaware State University to get the Schwartz Center so we can have plays and musicals. Mr. Boggerty stated he is a proponent of the amphitheater. Responding to Mr. Boggerty, Mr. Taylor stated that Chief Johnson and himself had been in contact regarding the Ad-Hoc Committee and it will be forthcoming. Otis Brooks, Owner of Caribbean Cuisine, and Tastee’s Chicken and Seafood. Mr. Brooks has been in Dover for 14 years and has been in his store alone. Mr. Brooks stated he had been confronted alone, as well as with customers, and threatened. Mr. Brooks is for increased police presence. Mr. Brooks requested that whatever action that is taken, to please consider what is done on one side of Governor’s and Loockerman is done on the other side as well. Ms. Leslie Smallwood, Mosaic, stated that she and Mosaic are motivated by the passion the community has for Dover. Ms. Smallwood stated there needed to be accountability for the behavior and a consistent presence for things to change, or the perception to change. Ms. Smallwood suggested looking at Camden as a model for community policing and their crime rate had dropped 50 percent due to the police, community, and local government. Ms. Smallwood explained that she believes a presence is needed but there does not necessarily need to have a brick-and-mortar station. Mr. Neil stated that the city charter is limited in terms of education and social services. Mr. Neil explained that those programs will require help from the state. Mr. Anderson stated he agreed on the need for an increased police presence in downtown Dover. Mr. Anderson explained that the city has given American Rescue Fund Act funds to social service organizations to address the social problems in the City of Dover. Mr. Anderson stated there will be social service professionals available to aid the Dover Police Department. Mayor Christiansen stated Chief Johnson has made every effort with the support of this Council. I hope for the continued support of this Council to create a 21st-century police department that serves our communities as everyone wants. He is establishing an advisory board, which is an exemplary group, which advises the Chief monthly on how to interact with the citizens that the Dover Police Department serves. Mayor Christiansen stated that he wanted to commend Mr. Harrington for his efforts on behalf of the Downtown Dover Partnership to purchase the property housing Driftwood Spirits. Mayor Christiansen also stated that he had been in touch and will get in touch again with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission regarding Driftwood Spirits. Mayor Christiansen believes the liquor store is a source of some of the issues that the merchants along Loockerman Street and the surrounding area must deal with the trash and all the other things that go along with it. Mr. Anderson moved to recommend referring to staff for a cost analysis of a police substation and a mobile substation with increased police presence. The motion was seconded by Mr. Neil. Mr. Sudler asked to amend the motion to include mental health resources and services. The amendment was denied by Mr. Anderson and Mr. Neil.

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 26, 2022 PAGE 11 Mr. Boggerty stated the issue needed to be split and the Council needed to make a firm decision on whether they would grant a police substation. Mr. Boggerty stated that the Dover Police Department had contracted with Dover Behavioral Health and Council needed to support Chief Johnson in his efforts. Ms. Arndt stated prior to this meeting she had mentioned it was premature to ask Council and constituents to come and support or not support a substation without a full picture of what that means. Ms. Arndt further explained the logistics for staffing, meeting the standards that the Chief mentioned, and the cost to taxpayers. Ms. Arndt further explained that last budget cycle Council raised taxes to cover the cost of adding police officers. Mrs. Arndt stated she would support having the police department do a brief breakdown of what a substation might cost so that we can factor that into their decision-making. Mr. Hare stated that he would like to see a more police presence. Mr. Hare further explained the city would need to hire more officers and if the city cannot afford it or if the police department cannot fill the positions, it is irrelevant. Mr. Sudler agreed with Mr. Boggerty, Ms. Arndt, and Mr. Hare. Mr. Anderson moved to recommend referring to staff for a cost analysis of a police substation and a mobile substation with increased police presence. The motion was seconded by Mr. Neil and passed with a roll call vote of 8 to 3. Mr. Sudler moved to recommend referring to staff for a cost analysis of mental health resources and services. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hare. Mr. Neil stated he was concerned because the charter did not mention mental health resources and social services and felt it needed a legal opinion. Mr. Neil moved to table the motion made by Mr. Sudler to recommend referring to staff for a cost analysis of mental health resources and social services. The motion was seconded by Ms. Arndt and carried with a roll call vote of 6 to 5. Kelly Harris, Dover, DE, stated she lives across the highway behind Safeway. Ms. Harris stated focusing on downtown will push problems into surrounding neighborhoods. Ms. Harris emphasized the city needs to target the community at the youth level. Ms. Harris stated many families cannot afford camps and programs for their children and there is nothing in the community for them to do. Diane Talley, Dover, DE stated that instead of placing a police substation downtown maybe the city could place a resource center downtown instead. Ms. Talley stated that she believes people who have safe homes and good jobs commit white-collar crimes. Ms. Talley further explained that people who are panhandling and committing other crimes are because they must. Mr. Taylor moved for adjournment of the Safety, Advisory, and Transportation Committee meeting, hearing no objection the meeting adjourned at 10:30 p.m. Mr. Sudler moved for adjournment of the Council Committee of the Whole meeting, hearing no objection the meeting adjourned at 10:30 p.m.

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 26, 2022 PAGE 12 Roy Sudler, Jr. Council President RS/re S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS\Committee-Minutes\TEMPLATES\COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE TEMPLATE.docx Attachments Attachment #1 - Letters in support of police substation

ATTACHMENT #1 Council Committee of the Whole Meeting of 04/26/2022 Downtown Dover Partnership Main Street Dover 101 W. Loockerman Street, Ste 1A Dover, DE 19904 (302)678-2940 April 25, 2022 City of Dover Mayor and Members of City Council 15 Loockerman Plaza Dover, DE 19901 Dear Mayor Christiansen and Members of City Council, In February of 2021, the DDP wrote in enthusiastic support of the re-emergence of the Community Policing Unit (CPU) into downtown, including the team of police officers and cadets who have shown a noticeable commitment to working with the Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP) and its volunteers, downtown residents, and business and property owners. Even as the Community Policing Unit has not been able to be staffed sufficiently as fully dedicated to downtown, and considering the reasonably high level of attrition of the young, capable "future officers" is a concern, we continue to value the presence of the CPU, particularly during the daylight hours. There is a visible reduction in negative behavior when they are on site. The downtown is the heart of the community. In light of the current discussions regarding a downtown police substation, we take this opportunity to voice desire for a consistent team of officers dedicated to downtown, including into the late-night hours. We continue to believe that the reality and, possibly more importantly, the perception of downtown safety must be further addressed in a visible and viable manner, such as through increased numbers of uniformed officers regularly in the commercial district. Whether in a substation, in vehicles, or on foot - we leave it to the professional safety experts to determine which is most effective. There is no "silver bullet" to downtown revitalization, but rather concurrent strategies to ensure progress: Capable, willing leadership is in place at the City. Development of the master plan is fully underway. Increased numbers of residents, small businesses, restaurants with outdoor dining will bring vibrancy. Adequate and convenient parking will ensure a pleasant experience. A strategy to further address downtown safety must be the common and firm foundation under these "pieces of the puzzle", now and going forward. The DDP stands ready to actively support efforts to bring this request to reality and look forward to continued conversations with Mayor and City staff and Members of City Council on exactly how we may do so. Sincerely, Todd Stonesifer, DDP Board President Diane Laird, DDP Executive Director CC: Members ofthe DDP Board of Directors David S. Hugg, III, City Manager Thomas Johnson, Police Chief

On Tue, Apr 26, 2022 at 12:08 PM Lori Llewellyn <lori@lovemyroots.com> wrote: Hi Tina, Sending from my phone so I hope it comes through okay. Let me know as I will be back to my laptop around 1:30. Thanks so much for sharing. Lori ?(\)~(»)~ oN q__~)(\es5 Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: CLoneiS From: Cameron Llewellyn <cameron@tidemarkde.com> Date: April 26, 2022 at 11:53:39 AM EDT ? To: Lori Llewellyn <lori@lovemyroots.com> Thank you for listening to our written statement. We are in favor of the police substation downtown. This statement is sent on behalf of Cameron Llewellyn, owner of Tidemark Construction located at their property owned building at 117 W. Reed St. and Lori Llewellyn, owner of My Roots Boutique located at leased property, 9 W. Loockerman St. Tidemark Construction owns the property t 117 W Reed St. On a daily basis, we have random people hanging out in our back rkin or sitting on our front porch. We have put up several signs to include "private property" and "no trespassing". We have installed several cameras in and around the building. On a nightly basis we can look at our outside cameras and see a least one individual hanging out, drinking alcohol and/or sharing a "cigarette". We often attempt to talk to them through the camera and ask to leave at which point some do and others chose not to. This is even more concerning if we leave the building after dark. The last several weeks the ,Ro ts staff has noticed an increase of vagrants in and around our store located 9 w..... ockerman St. Most that enter just linger around and don't speak while others tual ask us to assist with looking at items. I would like to share

one specific incident that is of serious concern. We had a gentleman enter our store a few weeks ago. He claimed he was looking for something for a lady (as we are a ladies clothing boutique). He returned yesterday, Monday April 26th and intentionally exposed himself to my business partner. While he was exposing himself he asked her to assist him in getting some items from a shelf. She immediately grabbed her phone and acted like she was taking a call, at which time he exited. She called the police and they informed her to let them know if he returned. We were able to pull images from our camera which clearly show his intentions. Those were forwarded to the police as well. This is very concerning. If he is comfortable going this far, and now he knows that there could often be a female alone in the store, what will he do the next time he comes in?

Gmail Tina Bradbury <tbradbury617@gmail.com> Statement Lori Llewellyn <lori@lovemyroots.com> Tue, Apr 26, 2022 at 2:54 PM To: Tina Bradbury <tina@downtowndoverpartnership.com> Made the change below. Thank you! Lori Llewellyn My Roots 9 W. Loockerman St Downtown Dover 302-883-2693 10ri@lovemyroots.com Begin forwarded message: From: Tina Bradbury <tina@downtowndoverpartnership.com> Subject: Re: Statement Date: April 26, 2022 at 12:57:12 PM EDT To: Lori Llewellyn <lori@lovemyroots.com> Looks good just please start off by stating if you are in favor or not of the police substation as I have to have theat written to read into the record. Tina Bradbury, CTA Economic Development & Operations Manager Downtown Dover Partnership Office: 302-678-2940 Cell: 302-465-5456 http://www.downtowndoverpartnership.com/ Follow us on Facebook for all the latest updates: https:/Iwww.facebook.com/DowntownDover/

CenDel Foundation is in a favor of police subdivision downtown. I'm the Director of Operations for CenDel Foundation, and the CenDel Community building is centered between two areas prone to illegal activity: a liquor store and a nightclub. The patrons from these hot spot areas frequently gather in the CenDel parking lot after dark, which has resulted in panhandling, fights, robberies, and shootings, making the environment extremely unsafe. ici ().}L~ Regards, f~ Lv:f'f2.£ ~ ~~ (J\~f\ ~jI)\)) Tenish Gregory Director of Operations Cendel Foundation f \ofillU\~

( For the record, my name is Chuck Spiegelman. I am Associate Broker and partner in the Commercial Moving Experience Real Estate Company. We represent clients and tenants whose property and businesses are in Downtown Dover. One of the most frequent complaints and feedback we receive from our clients is the ongoing security issues in the Downtown area. We believe, in the best interest of the City, its citizens, and its businesses, that a police station, trained in modern law enforcement and conflict resolution techniques would improve the quality of the Downtown Dover experience. This will certainly encourage more growth in the Downtown area and present greater opportunities for residents and non- residents alike. Thank you Chuck Spiegelman .. ., - ... - ~ ~-----=---r--F--.-._.-T':--~_ ~-"'L _~_ ._ ••. ,__ .••.•..• _ • __J. ~ -. ~ • ~ .•. ~ - - _.- • www.TheMovingExperienceDE.com27W.LoockermanSt.Dover.DE19904 302-241-0899 @

• v To: Tina Bradbury Cc: Jonathan Street TGday at 2 12 PM Statement for tonight My name is Jill Street, and I am a long time resident of Dover. My children attend preschool downtown, we are members at Wesley United Methodist Church, and both my husband and I are employed by businesses within blocks of the proposed police substation. We are all downtown on a regular basis. I am of the opinion that it would be a better use of resources to hire more officers for a stronger police presence or allocate funds to support community programming, rather than spend money to set up another station, just blocks away from the current police station. .....___-- I do not think this station would change the perception *of some* that downtown is not safe. Dover does not seem to have a parking problem or perceived lack of safety on Dover Days or holiday parades. As a grocery store does not change the hunger problem, nor would another station change perceived safety. Thank you for your commitment to Dover, Jill

Gmail Tina Bradbury <tbradbury617@gmail.com> Important Message-Opportunity For Your Input Theresa Owens <theresaowens81@yahoo.com> Tue, Apr 26,2022 at 3:09 PM To: Tina Bradbury <tina@downtowndoverpartnership.com> Cc: Theresa Owens <blu.vintage@yahoo.com>, Theresa Owens <theresaowens81@icloud.com> Hi this Theresa Owens owner of bluvintage n stonerail market Yes I am wanting a substantial on on behalf of both my locations!!! Just a simple presentation of police authorities make a huge difference!! Thank you Theresa Owens On Apr 26, 2022, at 3:07 PM, Tina Bradbury <tina@downtowndoverpartnership.com> wrote: [Quoted text hidden] ~i~~ (50:5' G~ '25W' L~~

Gmail Tina Bradbury <tbradbury617@gmail.com> Downtown Dover Police Outpost 1 message Joseph Petrosky <jmp@cpcommercial.com> Tue, Apr 26, 2022 at 3:29 PM To: Tina Bradbury <tina@downtowndoverpartnership.com> I am the owner f 137 B adford Street, 1-9 West Loockerman Street owned these p pert' for many years and in attempting to attract b CRIME/SAFET re always the biggest concern. I am strongly in favor in a more robust police presence in the downtown area, particularly in the vicinity of Bradford Street. Late at night we continue to have an increase of large gatherings and illegal activities including public drunkenness, drug transactions, lOitering, littering and most recently shootings. I am 100% behind the idea of locating a police outpost on this block. G&J HOLDINGS LLC Joseph M. Petrosky jmp@cpcommercial.com 302/270-7613 PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW MAILING ADDRESS: PO BOX 309 Camden Wyoming, DE 19934 Attention: This electronic message and all contents contain information which may be privileged and confidential. The information is intended to be for addressee only. If you are not addressee, any disclosure, copy, distribution or use of the contents of this message is prohibited. If you received this electronic message in error, please notify us immediately and destroy the original message and all copies.

Gmail Tina Bradbury <tbradbury617@gmail.com> Police station 1 message Gino Caruso <pinc01010@aol.com> Tue, Apr 26, 2022 at 3:42 PM To: Tina Bradbury <tina@downtowndoverpartnership.com> Tina I believe that a police station downtown on Bradford Street where they had projected it to be would be the best solution to a lot of problems downtown we need it bad or we will not get any more business downtown than we're already seeing at this point. 95% of the women that are working in E Z pass complain about the homeless and the soliciting that takes place the town is too small to have that going on. Some women come to Angelos and ask us to escort them to the parking lot on Bradford. Thank you Tina Sent from my iPhone

Downtown Dover Partnership Main Street Dover 101 W. Loockerman Street, Ste 1A Dover, DE 19904 (302)678-2940 April 25, 2022 City of Dover Mayor and Members of City Council 15 Loockerman Plaza Dover, DE 19901 Dear Mayor Christiansen and Members of City Council, The downtown is the heart of the community. In light of the current discussions regarding a downtown police substation, we take this opportunity to voice desire for a consistent team of officers dedicated to downtown, including into the late-night hours. We continue to believe that the reality and, possibly more importantly, the perception of downtown safety must be further addressed in a visible and viable manner, such as through increased numbers of uniformed officers regularly in the commercial district. Whether in a substation, in vehicles, or on foot - we leave it to the professional safety experts to determine which is most effective. There is no "silver bullet" to downtown revitalization, but rather concurrent strategies to ensure progress: Capable, willing leadership is in place at the City. Development of the master plan is fully underway. Increased numbers of residents, small businesses, restaurants with outdoor dining will bring vibrancy. Adequate and convenient parking will ensure a pleasant experience. A strategy to further address downtown safety must be the common and firm foundation under these "pieces of the puzzle", now and going forward. The DDP stands ready to actively support efforts to bring this request to reality and look forward to continued conversations with Mayor and City staff and Members of City Council on exactly how we may do so. Sincerely, Todd Stonesifer, DDP Board President Diane Laird, DDP Executive Director CC: Members of the DDP Board of Directors David S. Hugg, III, City Manager Thomas Johnson, Police Chief

Gmail Tina Bradbury <tbradbury617@gmail.com> Downtown Police Substation 1 message Chris Raubacher <chrisjraubacher@gmail.com> Mon, Apr 25, 2022 at 5:02 PM To: Tina Bradbury <tina@downtowndoverpartnership.com>, Phil McGinnis <pjm@mcginnisrealty.com> Chris and Rebecca Raubacher April 25, 2022 RE: Downtown Dover Police Substation As business and property owners in downtown Dover since 1982, we strongly support a police substation in downtown Dover. We currently maintain an office as well as 12 commercial and residential units in downtown Dover. We feel a stronger presence of the police force, which the substation would provide, will help people feel safe coming downtown to shop, work, live and invest. This is an opportunity for downtown Dover to begin to recover and move forward in the twenty-first century. ~ Thank you, Chris and Rebecca Raubacher f <L"{l2-i ~u....;:)\if ~eI' DYf5 wJ~tL ~\o.\c.JXi l (e,S\c\enw. ~, ~

Gmail Tina Bradbury <tbradbury617@gmail.com> Important Message-Opportunity For Your Input Doher Ferris <dferris01@aol.com> Fri, Apr 22, 2022 at 11 :26 AM To: Tina Bradbury <tina@downtowndoverpartnership.com> My statement. As an investor in downtown Dover and interested in future investing I find it extremely necessary to have police presence in downtown Dover whether it be a station or constant police presence. It is the only way to essentially deter issues before they happen. Having a police presence is a safety issue and is a simple civic issue that is in the best interest of patrons, merchants and investors. Police presence is absolutely necessary and I fully support it. Very sincerely Doug Ferris Sent from Doug Ferris On Apr 22,2022, at 10:42 AM, Tina Bradbury <tina@downtowndoverpartnership.com> wrote: [Quoted text hidden] )0'6 L.0 ~o.i'\. f-~ ~. ~ (D\ \(:e__ ~Q)tf__

Gmail Tina Bradbury <tbradbury617@gmail.com> Important Message-Opportunity For Your Input Belvin, Tiffany <Tiffany.Belvin@transcore.com> Fri, Apr 22,2022 at 12:06 PM To: Tina Bradbury <tina@downtowndoverpartnership.com> Good afternoon, Tina: I will not be able to attend the meeting, but as the HR Rep for our employees I am in favor of a police substation in the downtown area. Multiple employees have expressed concerns about safety in the area. Employees have witnessed public urination, intravenous drug use, what appeared to be drug transactions, among other isues. I've had multiple new hires quit during their first week stating they don't feel safe walking from the parking area to the E-Z Pass building. Respectfully, Tiffany Belvin I Human Resource Representative Delaware E-ZPass I TransCore L.P. 22-24 W. Loockerman St, Dover, DE 19904 Office: 302-678-7029 I Mobile: 302-922-3394 Tiffany'.Belvin@TransCore.com "Hardwork doesn't guarantee SLiccess, but improves its chances. " - B..! Gupta From: Tina Bradbury <tina@downtowndoverpartnership.com> Sent: Friday, April 22, 2022 10:42 AM Subject: Important Message-Opportunity For Your Input Hello All, [Quoted text hidden 1