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CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
Thursday, October 20, 2022 at 3:30 PM
City Hall Conference Room, 15 Loockerman Plaza, Dover, Delaware
AGENDA
IN-PERSON and VIRTUAL MEETING NOTICE
The Historic District Commission, Meeting for October 20, 2022 will be held as an In-Person Meeting in
the City Hall Conference Room. The public is welcome to attend in person. The Meeting will also be
provided as a Virtual Meeting using the WebEx audio/video conferencing system as an electronic means
of communication. See participation information below to join by phone or computer.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION INFORMATION
City of Dover Historic District Commission Meeting of October 20, 2022
Dial: 1-605-479-3208
Event number/Access code: 2539 627 4424
Event password: DoverHDC
Event Address: https://bit.ly/HDCMeeting102022
If you are new to WebEx get the app now at https://www.webex.com/ to be ready when the
meeting starts. For problems accessing the meeting, please call the Planning Office at (302) 736-
7196.
Written comments are accepted via mail to the City of Dover - Historic District Commission, P.O. Box
475 Dover, DE 19903 and via email at CompPlan@dover.de.us
WELCOME
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Adoption of Minutes of May 19, 2022
2. Adoption of Minutes of August 18, 2022
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HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION - October 20, 2022 PAGE 2
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
Summary of Activity
3. Summary of Applications 2021 and 2022
4. Summary of Architectural Review Certificates for 2022
Department of Planning & Inspections Updates
Education & Training Opportunities
5. A. Preservation & Progress: Preservation Delaware's Annual Conference & Meeting on
October 20-21, 2022
B. Historic District Commission Training Sessions on Design Review and Law & Procedures
- Pending dates in November 2022
NEW APPLICATIONS
NEW BUSINESS
Review of Permits Referred to Commission
6. HI-21-07 Referral of Demolition Activities for 233-239 W. Loockerman Street - Referral by
the City Planner to the Historic District Commission for Determination of Demolition by
Neglect and Review of Architectural Review Certification for Demolition Activities for
existing fire damaged commercial/residential building. The property was declared a
Dangerous Building by City Council on August 15, 2022. The property is zoned C-2 (Central
Commercial Zone) and subject to the H (Historic District Zone). The property is located at
the northeast corner of West Loockerman Street and South New Street. The owner of record
is SAG Holdings, LLC. Property Addresses: 233-239 West Loockerman Street and 149 S.
New Street. Tax Parcel: ED-05-077.09-01-50.00-000. Council District 4.
OLD BUSINESS
Certified Local Government (CLG) Program
Implementation of 2019 Comprehensive Plan
ADJOURN
THE AGENDA ITEMS AS LISTED MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED IN SEQUENCE. PURSUANT TO
29 DEL. C. §10004(e)(2), THIS AGENDA IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE TO INCLUDE THE ADDITION
OR THE DELETION OF ITEMS, INCLUDING EXECUTIVE SESSIONS, WHICH ARISE AT THE
TIME OF THE MEETING
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
May 19, 2022
The Meeting of the City of Dover Historic District Commission was held on Thursday, May 19,
2022, at 3:30 PM virtually using the videoconferencing system WebEx with Chairman Czerwinski
presiding. Members present were Mr. Street and Mrs. Mason. Ms. Horsey was absent. (Note: The
fifth Historic District Commission member has not been appointed following the completion of
the term of Mr. McDaniel in 2020).
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that the meeting was moved to a fully Virtual format today due
to a Limited State of Emergency that the Mayor proclaimed related to the COVID-19 impacts with
City Staffing and City Buildings.
Planning Office Staff members present were Mrs. Melson-Williams and Mr. Swierczek.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Ms. Mason moved for approval of the agenda as presented, seconded by Mr. Street and the motion
was unanimously carried 3-0.
Roll Call Vote
• Ms. Horsey -Absent
• Ms. Mason - Yes
• Mr. Street – Yes
• Mr. Czerwinski - Yes
ADOPTION OF MINUTES OF THE REGULAR HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
MEETING OF MARCH 24, 2022
Mr. Street moved for approval of the Meeting Minutes of April 21, 2022, seconded by Ms. Mason
and the motion was unanimously carried 3-0.
Roll Call Vote
• Ms. Horsey -Absent
• Ms. Mason - Yes
• Mr. Street – Yes
• Mr. Czerwinski - Yes
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
Summary of Applications for 2021 and 2022
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that you will be looking at your 4th and 5th Applications of the
year today. Most significantly, the Application that you looked at last month for the New Kent
County Family Courthouse and Parking Garage project, that recommendation was forwarded to
Planning Commission. Unfortunately, the Planning Commission meeting of Monday evening was
postponed until June 21, 2022. At that meeting, the Planning Commission will be considering the
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Site Plan and the Architectural Review Certification for the Courthouse and Parking Garage
project. The other items related to Applications in 2022 was the fence at 506 S. State Street that
has been installed and the associated Rezoning into the Historic District Zone for the Courthouse
that has been fully approved. In 2021, we had a series of six (6) applications throughout the
calendar year and most of them have made some progress towards either completion or getting
started. The last one of the calendar years was the drainage improvements at the Peoples Church;
that project is underway.
Summary of Architectural Review Certifications for 2022
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that this is the listing of Building Permit activity within the boundary
of the Historic District. There has been a total of ten (10) applications through the end of April.
Six (6) of them required Architectural Review Certification. Of those ten, there were two that the
Historic District Commission was involved in: the fence at 506 S. State Street and the drainage
project at the Peoples Church property at 46 S Bradford Street. There were four (4) building
interiors and a mix of fences, sheds, sign, and some administrative type Permits.
Department of Planning & Inspections Update
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that she believed they have started interviews for the Planning
Director position. There were some recent code changes in how the reporting of that position will
occur. It is now a part of the City Code that the City Planner will report to the City Manager.
The hiring process includes the City Manager with Council confirming the selection; and the Code
now makes it clear that the City Planner is the Director of the Department of Planning and
Inspections. It cleared up some of the difficulties in the Code that led to some difficulties in
managing when the City Planner was reporting to City Council rather than directly to the City
Manager like pretty much every department head except for the Chief of Police.
As previously mentioned, there was a Limited Declaration of Emergency that the Mayor for Dover
issued. It was declared as of noon today “due to the public health threat and in the best interest of
the general public staff and their families, city facilities will be closed on Friday, May 20th and on
Monday, May 23rd due to an increased number of positive COVID-19 cases among staff. Masks
are highly encouraged for everyone, school age and above, who enter city owned facilities effective
tomorrow until further notice.” Sanitation, Electric and other Divisions will still be staffed. As
mentioned, they will still be collecting trash and recycling operations for the City. The City
Buildings are what is closed to the public on Friday and Monday; that meaning City Hall and the
customer service facility that's located at Weyant Hall or the building at 5 East Reed Street. The
library will be closed Friday through Monday, as well as the Pitts Recreation Center itself. The
Mayor made that declaration and we have also moved to make all the public meetings a virtual
format. The Planning Office has been conducting all our boards and commissions in this hybrid
format anyway, so even when we had the In-Person opportunity, we also had that Virtual Meeting
set up as well. We could easily pivot this afternoon to a fully virtual scenario for the projects to be
continued to be reviewed this afternoon here with the Historic District Commission.
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that included in the packet was information about a Public
Workshop that was held earlier this week on the Dover Air Force Base Compatible Use Study.
There is a project website that is identified on that sheet as well. This is a study that is looking at
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the immediate environs of Dover Air Force Base. Basically, a five-mile area surrounding the Base
and looking at the uses that are currently there and how we may better guide future use in those
areas to ensure the continued existence and compatibility with the Air Force Base and its
operations. There are a number of committees that are part of this study. The City is part of the
Policy Committee and, the Technical Committee. They have been gathering a significant amount
of data and Wednesday nights workshop was really a way to introduce the public to the study and
the wealth of data that they are gathering. There will be more outreach opportunities as the study
continues. This is a study that is funded by the Department of Defense. However, it is a joint effort
of a number of agencies and consultants that make up the consultant team which includes DelDOT
(the State Department of Transportation), staff at Century Engineering and the University of
Delaware's Institute for Public Administration. If you have any interest, please take a look at this.
They will have a very dynamic map viewing system that will be part of the project website where
you can turn on various layers of information from land use and zoning to environmental concerns,
limited information about base operations, and the like. This project is just getting started. There
will be more workshops in the Fall as they look at some specific areas around the base and how to
plan for their future.
The other study is the Strategic Master Plan for Downtown Dover that is still underway. Mosaic
Development Partners and their team have been doing a number of stakeholder meetings. This is
a Master Plan that the Downtown Dover Partnership had being the lead agency. There is a survey
that is out on the street at this point asking questions again that are focused on the Downtown area
and people’s vision for what it is and what it could be and any excellent ideas for opportunities
here in the Downtown area. Visit the website for the Downtown Dover Partnership. There is a link
to their project and the project survey.
Ms. Mason mentioned that she took the survey and she highly recommend that the other
members take it as well. It is very interesting and informative. Mrs. Melson-Williams thanked
Ms. Mason for participating. Ms. Mason replied you are welcome.
Updates on Studies
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that included in your packet was information about a Public
Workshop that was held earlier this week on the Dover Air Force Base Compatible Use Study.
There is a Project Website that is identified on that sheet as well to find out more information
about the Compatible Use Study. This study looks at the immediate environs of the Dover Air
Force Base. The City is part of the Policy Committee and the Technical Committee. They have
been gathering a significant amount of data and Wednesday night’s Workshop was really a way
to introduce the public to the Study and the wealth of data that they're gathering. There will be
more outreach opportunities as the study continues. The Study is funded by the Department of
Defense. However, it is a joint effort of a number of agencies and consultants that make up the
consultant team which includes DelDOT and the Department of Transportation, Staff at Century
Engineering, and the University of Delaware's Institute for Public Administration. They will
have a very dynamic map viewing system that will be part of the project website where you can
turn on various layers of information such as Land Use and Zoning to environmental concerns,
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and limited information about base operations. This is a project that is just getting started. They
will be more workshops in the fall as they look at some specific areas around the base and how
to plan for their future.
The other study that I want to also highlight for you is that the Strategic Master Plan for
Downtown Dover is still underway. The Mosaic Development Partners and their team have been
doing a number of stakeholder meetings and this is a master plan that the Downtown Dover
partnership had.
Review of Permits Referred to Commission
HI-22-04 Referral of Permit #22-661 at 527-529 South State Street
Mrs. Melson-Williams gave a summary of Application HI-22-04. The applicant is requesting a
Recommendation on Architectural Review Certification for construction of seven (7) parking
spaces for the property. The property is zoned RGO (General Residence & Office Zone) and
subject to the H (Historic District Zone) and SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone).
The property is located at the northeast corner of S. State Street and Elm Terrace.
Representatives: Justin Duffy
Mrs. Melson-Williams presented information on the Permit and the proposed project.
Mr. Justin Duffy thanked Mrs. Melson-Williams for the summary of the Application as it helps
him get a better idea of the parameters for having this parking space area. This building is a tri-
plex that is currently tenant occupied. We are transitioning the use of the building to be utilized
for medical students and residents that are going be at Bayhealth Hospital for their residency.
There will probably be about eight (8) residents staying at the location at once. Ideally, I would
like to try to get 6 to 7 parking spaces sufficiently placed in the backyard area. The backyard is
large so there is room if designed appropriately for two rows of parking either on the left side as
it relates to the picture or on the right side. I completely agree with the addition to kind of create
a landscape screen for that. I will talk to my landscaper so that he can draw up a plan for that as
well. We are going to be doing some tree excavations with the existing trees that are there and
we could plant new trees. So from State Street, the attention will not be on the cars parking but
you will see the trees first. For the persons that are coming down Elm Street, we could put shrubs
to the side and flowerpots in the front to indicate in the alleyway where the cars are to stop.
Mrs. Melson-Williams asked if there was a difference in the two images that were sent today?
Mr. Duffy replied that with this new rendering, we would have a second row of parking spaces
instead of having all seven of them stacked right in front of the alleyway. We would have a
second row. Then we could also with the idea of those trees being newly planted, we could move
the cars over to where the trees are proposed and then move the trees over to the other side. So,
this way the trees will be viewable by State Street instead of behind the building.
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Mr. Duffy asked Mrs. Melson-Williams if that made sense. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that
the Revised Plan continues to show four spaces as basically pulling directly off the alley. It gives
some space from the north property line. So, there's an opportunity there for screening. The other
three spaces are where you would come in off the alley, beside the 4th vehicle parking space, but
then continue past to an area where three spaces would be established. It almost looks “L”
shaped in what it would mean for a paving scenario. Again, it maintains an area gap for
landscape planting perhaps along the property line that it shares with Elm Terrace. It still gains
the seven spaces, but it recognizes the opportunities for that landscape screening to happen. Mr.
Duffy replied yes, that is correct. The other alternative would be to remove parking spaces five,
six and seven to where it is currently saying that the newly replanted trees would be to remove
the parking spaces there and then move the trees over to where the parking spaces are currently
indicated.
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that the double stacking would happen on the northern portion of
the lot rather than the area closer to Elm Terrace. Mr. Duffy replied yes, that is correct. This will
allow us to get the trees on the Elm Terrace side.
Mr. Street stated that he did not really have any questions. He thanked Mr. Duffy for bringing the
information to the Historic District Commission.
Ms. Mason stated that she thought it looks nice. She was a little unclear about the parking spaces,
but she wanted to understand having them more on the north side and having more trees and
shrubs and things on Elm Terrace. She thinks it is a great idea and it is nice. It is a nice use for
that building to be able to have people from the hospital to stay there. She fully approves of it.
Mr. Street stated that six or seven spaces coming directly off the alley is less intrusive. If you can
provide some screening on Elm Terrace that is great. He did not know if they could dictate the
screening and what you need to screen. He knows the City's Code speaks to it. Visually, it is a
little bit easier to look at because it is just some additional paving off that alley. He mentioned he
knows that alley well. He feels like another 20 feet of paving on top of what is already there is
easier to deal with than providing some kind of random mismatch of a parking lot. I have no
problem with it if they can provide some screening, that is great, but it is fine.
Mr. Czerwinski stated that he agreed with Mr. Street comments. What is odd about this layout
is that staff recommended only 6 parking spaces be constructed. He asked Mr. Duffy if he was
supposed to have up to nine (9) residents for this property? Mr. Duffy replied up to eight (8).
Mr. Czerwinski stated that Mr. Duffy would still not have enough parking spaces for everyone
with this layout. My recommendation is that I kind of agree with Mr. Street that you have to
remember that this property is zoned as residential/office. When you start putting a parking lot
into this, it becomes more commercial. We have had this with a couple of different other areas
that are tied into residential areas. You must remember that right behind you is residential.
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Mr. Czerwinski was not sure how many parking spaces you need to have before you must have
lighting for parking. Is there a zone requirement? Mrs. Melson-Williams replied ten (10). There
is probably street lighting along Elm Terrace. She was not sure where the closest street light pole
is in that area.
Mr. Czerwinski if there was parking on the street as well? Mrs. Melson-Williams replied on Elm
Terrace it is a narrow street. I think parking is limited to one side of the street.
Mr. Czerwinski stated that this does not solve your parking issue per say. You are only adding
one space by adding a lot more asphalt to the property. I would prefer a single row along the
alleyway screened by bushes, it would be the best alternative here. You start covering up that lot
as a parking lot. Now you have this looking something a little bit more like commercial parking
than residential. That's his opinion. He thinks that they should go with the six (6) personally.
This was recommended by Staff. Staff recommendations are pretty spot on with their
assessments. He thinks when you start going into seven (7), you are going to end up having to
cover that whole parking or the whole lot with one big parking area because you still do not have
enough for residents without additional paving. Mr. Duffy replied okay and much appreciated.
He asked if the recommendation would be for the single row and limited to six parking spaces
and to do the landscape screening.
Mr. Czerwinski asked Mr. Street if that was his assessment as well. Mr. Street replied yes, he
was fine with that. I mean, we are talking six (6) or seven (7) spaces. He is not providing enough
for one for each unit but there is on street parking. If Mr. Duffy is okay with six (6), he does not
have an opinion either way. It is another 163 square feet of paving that he saved. It just provides
a little bit extra space. So, I am fine with the Staff Report if Mr. Duffy is okay with the Staff
Report.
Mr. Czerwinski asked Ms. Mason for her thoughts. Ms. Mason replied that she felt the same way
as Mr. Street. You would want to have six (6) and not seven (7) especially with the shrubbery
and everything, she thinks it is good.
Because I live on The Green, I know that you automatically get a residential sticker. Although
you may have a guest(s), it still should work out okay. Guests could park on the street if needed.
She asked if that made sense. Mr. Duffy asked what the residential sticker was as he was not
familiar. Ms. Mason replied if you live in a neighborhood and she thinks Elm Terrace as well, if
you have the sticker, you can park at any time. If you do not have a sticker, in other words, if a
guest comes to visit and now you take a parking space, they can get a ticket if they do not live
there. So, if you have six, seven or eight people who live there, they could probably (and maybe
Mrs. Melson-Williams knows more than I do) get a residential sticker also and be able to park on
the street.
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Mr. Street stated that the stickers are parking permits. It allows you to park on street. Most places
in the City are a two-hour parking limit. That sticker basically negates that two-hour limit for the
residents.
Mr. Duffy asked who administers the parking permit (sticker). Mrs. Melson-Williams replied she
believes that is issued through our Customer Service Department and it is based on property
location. With it being basically three units there, she was not sure of the number of parking
stickers the property would qualify for. That is something that you could certainly look into so
that it could be issued to a certain number of your tenants to allow for that parking. She was not
sure if Elm Terrace has time limitations on it. A lot of areas in our Downtown core have a 2-hour
parking limitation that is put in place so that people that work do not necessarily take up the
parking all day if that is the only parking that is for residences in that area. It is certainly
something to look into for that property.
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated if the Historic District Commission wants to put together a motion
with your recommendations, she thinks that would help clarify what your intentions are, and
thoughts are with this Permit for a parking area.
Ms. Mason moved for approval of a Review of Architectural Review Certification for Permit
#22-661 for construction of six parking spaces with landscape screening of the parking area and
no curbs required at 527-529 South State Street as submitted to include Staff recommendations.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Street and approved 3-0.
Roll Call Vote
Ms. Mason - Yes
Mr. Street - Yes
Mr. Czerwinski - Yes
Architectural Review Certification Consultation
HI-22-05 Delaware Public Archives: Consultation on Roof Project - Architectural Review
Certification Consultation on materials regarding a Roof Project at the Delaware Public Archives
building. The property is zoned IO (Institutional and Office Zone) and subject to the H (Historic
District Zone) and the SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone). The property is
located on the north side of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard North in the block bounded by
Legislative Avenue and East Loockerman Street. The owner of record is State of
Delaware. The property address is 121 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard North. Tax Parcel:
ED-05-077.09-05-13.00-000. Council District 4.
Mrs. Melson-Williams gave a summary and presentation of Application HI-22-05. She mentioned
that this building addition, while built in the Historic District, is not considered a historic roof at
this point. It has not reached 50 years old. It was constructed with a standing seam metal roof and
that has become problematic over the years.
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Representatives: Mr. Paul Guggenberger, Studio JAED; Ashley Stanley, State of Delaware
Mr. Guggenberger stated that the Archives staff has been dealing with roof leaks for essentially
the full life of this building for 20 years. They have portions of their largest archive floor, the top
floor, that they have not been able to use that have book stacks that are covered with tarps. It has
just been a struggle for them. Even though this standing seam roof is really just 10 years old,
they are looking to replace it at this time to resolve those roof leaks. The largest portion of the
roof you cannot see from the street here is a low slope roof that is 1/4 inch and twelve pitch. The
standing seam roof is on that area as well the steeper sloped areas. Our proposal is to remove the
standing seam roof in the flat area in the center. Apply a single-ply membrane most likely a TPO
roof, (a white roof), and then on the sloped portion of the roof that you can see from the streets
and sidewalks we wanted to talk with you about proposed materials for that area. We have
looked at three alternatives: one is architectural grade asphalt shingle roof that gives at least a
nominal lifetime warranty that is obviously relatively simple to install with conventional
detailing and long history of working. The second option would be a synthetic slate shingle
which again is a more traditional steep sloped roof. There is precedent in the Historic District for
use of that type of shingle. It was just installed across the street from the City Hall on the
Townsend Building and the War Building which is the little building that sits between Townsend
and Archives. The third option is a standing seam metal roof to replace in kind which is frankly
the least favorite because that has been the source of the problems so far. But we wanted to
review those options with you to see whether you had preferences or directions and which way
we should proceed with the project.
Mr. Street asked a question regarding the membrane versus shingles for the flatter roof. In your
opinion because of the slope of the roof would it make more sense to do the membrane? What
are you recommending as the Design Professional and what is the problem?
Mr. Guggenberger replied if you could flip back to that third slide that just shows the series of
pictures you can see the flat roof there as standing seam on it and then the top right picture has an
EPDM membrane overlaid on the standing seam just to try to keep the water out. Our proposal is
the right solution and that it is going to be a flat roof material a single-ply membrane TPO
EPDM or you know an asphaltic built-up roof. Our intent is to use likely a TPO membrane roof
on that surface. It is something that is proven for a low slope roof. You cannot see it from the
street, so we do not feel that it would be an issue in the Historic District. Our intent is for that at
the flat portion. It is really for us the question of when that roof turns from flat to steep slope, as
you can see in the middle-left picture, is what goes on that steep slope portion.
Mr. Street mentioned that this is not a Historic Building, but it is in the Historic District.
The current roof is standing seam on the steep part. So, I guess the question from Staff to the
members is do we want to see something other than asphalt shingles. I would even say you can
use architectural style shingles. They are not just the standard asphalt shingle, square asphalt
shingle or rectangular asphalt shingle. It has a little bit more textured and a little bit more
variability in the design.
Mr. Guggenberger replied right and that would be Slide 4. We would propose that you know
they call it a higher-grade shingle, but it is significantly thicker than your three-tab shingles; and,
they do give it a “lifetime” warranty.
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Lifetime is in quotes because it is a good warranty, and it is a fuller proof system than what is on
there now.
Mr. Street stated that he did not have any problem with the membrane on the flatter style then
moving to something with a more traditional shingle like we are seeing here.
Are you proposing just a gray like a Pewter Gray? Mr. Guggenberger replied right. There are
several gray options just that is the one we selected. Honestly, we would be happy to bring the
physical samples in to you guys. At this point we would really like to know how to proceed with
the drawings before we go too far.
Mr. Street mentioned that he did not know that he had any comments on color. He thinks the
gray is fine. I think if you came up with some other kind of color it might be a little different, but
it is a gray roof now. If you are good putting something out there that is a little bit more
substantial than what is already there.
Ms. Mason stated that she was not a great expert on a roof. If this is flat roofs, they are really
hard because that is what we have on our house, and they are just impossible to maintain. Are
you just going to replace just the flat roof and not the rest of the shingles? Will it be just the flat
roof or the whole thing?
Mr. Guggenberger replied we are not touching the more Historic Building that is on the
Legislative Hall side which has Terra cotta shingles on it; we are not touching that at all.
Everything that you see that is a standing seam metal roof, we want to take all of that off and
replace it.
Ms. Mason replied okay. She did not know which one to pick but I think unfortunately I am just
on my phone, and I cannot see. I am looking at the gray shingles and she thinks they look good.
She thinks they just have to do whatever is best that will last longer. Although, you will not be
able to see it because it is a flat roof.
Mr. Street asked if this was an actual application to the Historic District Commission?
It sounds like they are in the house, and they are thinking about it process and trying to figure out
which way to go. The applicant wants to do some type of membrane and then at the asphalt
shingles on the sloped part of the roof. Are we approving that changing of material or approving
the request?
Mrs. Melson-Williams replied in general yes. Given the flat roof that one is not visible. They
could easily change that material out because it is not visible. But the standing seam areas for the
steep slope, the change going from the standing seam that is there to something other than that
she felt would need the input of the Historic District Commission. It is certainly easier for them
to come present the options before they do detailed drawings about how they need to make this
roof system work for the replacement. She suggested they go ahead and get the Application in
front of the Historic District Commission so when your Building Permit comes in with the
selected option it coincides with what the Historic District Commission would say. When that
other Permit walked in, we referred it to you. This is kind of ahead of the game help them out in
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making the ultimate decision. If it is standing seam, do you have to go back with standing seam
or can you consider one of these other two options: the synthetic slate appearance that been
utilized or to allow for the architectural asphalt shingle. She thinks you are well within your
reasons to go with the new material on these slope roofs. We tried to do a quick look to see if
there was any reason why standing scene was it to begin with and we were not really finding
that. There are certainly examples in the Capitol Complex there of using the synthetic slate.
She thinks this building has got a lot going on with its roof to say the least with all the various
angles. If leakage has been a consistent problem, then perhaps using the material that is most
friendly for dealing with all of those transitions is the appropriate thing to consider. She thinks
given the height of it you are probably not really going to be able to tell that it is an asphalt
shingle roof; it is just going to look like a gray shingle. It is not going to be able to be truly
visibly as to what it is at that location from your view from the street. Today she called it a
Consultation because we did not have a formal filing but felt it was appropriate to kind of bring
that to you ahead of the game to help them out in making some of their decisions moving
forward with their application ultimately.
Chairman Czerwinski mentioned that he did walk around Downtown looking at different types
of buildings with his wife and we do have a mixed batch of the slate. We do have some
architectural shingle and the metal roofing and everything else down there. Ultimately, it comes
down to you want something that is going to last; and, in this case, this is that historic building. It
is a building that was built about 20 years ago. He does not see any reason why in all practicality
not to use architectural shingles.
The architectural shingles I know as I just had my roof redone and a lot of them are warranted up
to 50 years now. As he really likes the slate look, he does not think that those slates can last you
any decent amount of time. He would think that as a group we could recommend it. Use your
best judgement. He thinks the architectural shingles are probably your best bet in my opinion for
practicality and let's look at the cost. He is sure those full slate tiles are quite expensive versus
architectural shingling. He would think that you guys probably would want to go with
architectural shingles. I'm not sure about the coloring. He thinks the coloring should be a little bit
darker to match with the other buildings around it, so you do not have this hodgepodge patchy
look but different rooftops. He thinks that you are going in the right direction. He thinks the
architectural shingles are the way to go. He thinks that everybody else would agree that is the
best way to go. We could recommend the use of architectural shingles as a cost effective and
long-term solution to the roofing that still has a decent and a very good look to it.
Mr. Street moved for approval that they accept the Architectural Certification for the new roof as
submitted unless they want to change materials drastically to allow using some type of
membrane for the flat roof and then switching to a more architectural style shingle for the
steeper slope roofs.
Mr. Guggenberger asked before there is a vote on the motion he asked if Facilities Management
decides to let the occupant in the Archives building choose this material would it be acceptable
for the Commission to move that we can use architectural shingles or synthetic slate.
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION MAY 19, 2022
Mr. Street replied yes, he did not have a problem with it. It is a color. The synthetic slate at least
gives that look, but I do not know that I have a problem. He asked the other members if they had
any issues with it. The other members did not have any issues. Chairman Czerwinski mentioned
that any of the three would be acceptable.
Mr. Street moved to amend the motion for approval that they accept the Architectural Review
Certification HI-22-05 for the new roof as submitted with materials and color using some type of
membrane for the flat roof and then switching to a more architectural style shingle for the
steeper slope roofs for the building. We would be acceptable of any of the three options
depending on what is ultimately chosen. The motion was seconded by Ms. Mason.
Roll Call Vote
Mr. Street- I
Ms. Mason -I
Mr. Czerwinski -I
OLD BUSINESS
Certified Local Government (CLG) Program
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that there were no updates.
Implementation of 2019 Comprehensive Plan
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that there were no updates. She mentioned that the two studies
are ongoing that could potentially bring implementation strategies that could result in changes to
code or zoning. There are certainly other City Departments that have a number of studies and
implementation projects underway because it is all part of the vision for the City of Dover. There
is an electronic City Newsletter that you can sign up to receive to find out about things going on
in the City.
Mr. Street moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Ms. Mason, and unanimously carried
3-0.
Roll Call Vote to Adjourn the Meeting
Ms. Mason-Yes
Mr. Street – Yes
Mr. Czerwinski – Yes
Meeting adjourned at 5:00 PM
Sincerely,
Maretta Savage-Purnell
Secretary
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Item 2.
CITY OF DOVER
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
AUGUST 18, 2022
The Meeting of the City of Dover Historic District Commission was held on Thursday, August 18,
2022, at 3:30 PM as an In-Person meeting in the City Hall Conference Room (anchor location)
and virtually using the videoconferencing system WebEx with Chairman Czerwinski presiding.
Other members present were Mr. Street, Mrs. Mason and Ms. Horsey (Note: The fifth Historic
District Commission member has not been appointed following the completion of the term of Mr.
McDaniel in 2020).
Planning Office Staff members present were Mrs. Melson-Williams, Mr. Swierczek and Mrs.
Mary Ellen Gray.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Ms. Horsey moved for approval of the agenda as presented, seconded by Ms. Mason and the
motion was unanimously carried 4-0.
Voice Vote
• Ms. Horsey -Yes
• Ms. Mason - Yes
• Mr. Street – Yes
• Mr. Czerwinski - Yes
ADOPTION OF MINUTES OF THE REGULAR HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
MEETING OF MAY 19, 2022
The Commission moved to defer the approval of the Meeting Minutes of May 19, 2022, until the
next scheduled meeting. Motion by Mr. Street, seconded by Ms. Horsey to allow time to review the
minutes.
Voice Vote
• Ms. Horsey -Yes
• Ms. Mason - Yes
• Mr. Street – Yes
• Mr. Czerwinski - Yes
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
Summary of Applications for 2021 and 2022
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that you will be looking at your sixth Applications of the year
today. Most significantly, the Application that you looked at last month for the New Kent County
Family Courthouse and Parking Garage project, that was granted by the Planning Commission
Conditional approval of the Site Plan and the associated Architectural Review Certification at the
Planning Commission June meeting. In 2021, we had a series of six (6) applications throughout
the calendar year and most of them have made some progress towards either completion or getting
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Item 2.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION AUGUST 18, 2022
started.
Summary of Architectural Review Certifications for 2022
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that this is the listing of Building Permit activity within the boundary
of the Historic District. There has been a total of fourteen (14) applications through the end of July.
Twelve (12) of them were approved by Staff or did not require Architectural Review Certification
because they were an interior project. Two (2) of them required the Historic District Commission:
the fence at 506 S. State Street and the drainage project at the Peoples Church property at 46 S
Bradford Street. There were four (4) interior renovations, two (2) exterior building projects, and a
mix of fences, sheds, sign, and some administrative type Permits.
Ms. Mason mentioned she was trying to find 201 West Loockerman Street, Dove’s Restaurant
which is supposed to be a restaurant. She noticed that nothing had been completed and was curious
of the status. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that she believed it was on the northwest corner of
Loockerman Street and Governors Avenue. It was interior renovations work for a tenant fit-out of
a kitchen for a restaurant and second floor office. She did not have any updates. A Permit was
issued in February. They have 6-months to continue to act on the Permit and the Permit can be
extended.
Ms. Mason also asked about the building on the corner of S. New Street and asked if the Permit
had expired. Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that it was the building with the fire at 235-239 W.
Loockerman Street; and there has been no Permits issued. It was taken to City Council as a
Dangerous Building consideration on Monday evening. City Council declared it Dangerous and
gave a timeframe of the end of the month for the property owner to take steps to either demolish
or repair the building. If steps are not taken, then the City has a process that will be followed to
address that building.
Chairman Czerwinski asked about 304 S. State Street and if this was the building missing the
façade. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied correct. He also asked that it was approved by Staff for the
façade replacement. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied it was and they also did an update at one of the
Historic District Commission Meetings about that project. The Permit information was shared with
the Commission in April. Chairman Czerwinski mentioned that the only thing he was told was the
building is being worked on. It is an awful big project for just Staff Approval.
Mr. Street asked if they were changing the façade? Mrs. Melson-Williams replied no. They are
reconstructing the front façade wall of the building and other interior structural support work. The
new wall is to replicate the brick wall with window openings and the reinstallation of cast iron
window headers and other detailing. Some of the material was salvaged by the current building
owner who was the original contractor. This was shown on the plan for reinstallation.
Department of Planning & Inspections Updates
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that we do have a new Planning Director Mary Ellen Gray who
joined the City Staff on July 18, 2022, as the Director of Planning, Inspections and Community
Development. She comes from a background as previously Assistant Director in Kent County and
most recently as the Planning Director of the City of Newark, Delaware. She resides locally in
Camden, Delaware. We welcome her and are happy to have her on board leading our Department.
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Item 2.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION AUGUST 18, 2022
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned there is also an HVAC replacement project that is going on in
City Hall. They are currently working on the other side of the building. She will keep you updated
on meeting locations in the building.
Updates on Studies
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that the Downtown Strategic Master Plan is underway with the
Mosaic Development Partners working the Downtown Dover Partnership. She will refer the
Commission to the Downtown Dover Partnership’s website for the latest postings about the
Master Plan project. They have done a lot of data gathering and conversations. We have another
presentation next week at the Stakeholder level. The Study is on track to come to resolution this
Fall.
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned the other Study is the Dover Air Force Base Compatible Use
Study. There is a Project Website that can also be found on DelDOT’s page. DelDOT is one of
the co-sponsors of the project Study. The Study is focused on the five-mile area around Dover
Air Force Base. There will be more workshops in the Fall as they look at some specific areas
around the Base for appropriate usage and how to plan for their future. There are things we need
to do from a land use prospective with the Zoning Ordinance and other ways to help protect the
economic and long-term viability of the Dover Air Force Base being here in Central Delaware.
Review of Permits Referred to Commission
HI-22-06 Referral of Permit #22-1298 at John Bell House, 43 The Green
Referral by the City Planner to the Historic District Commission for Review of Architectural
Review Certification for a Permit Application #22-1298 for construction of an accessory structure
(restroom and storage) at the John Bell House. The property is zoned RGO (General Residence &
Office Zone) and subject to the H (Historic District Zone) and SWPOZ (Source Water Protection
Overlay Zone). The property is located east of South State Street on the southeast side of The
Green. The owner of record is the State of Delaware. The property address is 43 The Green. Tax
Parcel: ED-05-077.09-05-28.00-000. Council District 4.
Mrs. Melson-Williams gave a summary of Application HI-22-06. The applicant is proposing
construction of an accessory structure (restroom and storage) at the John Bell House to the rear
(south) of the building on The Green.
Mrs. Melson-Williams presented information from the Building Permit #22-1298 and the proposed
project plan drawings set. The building is a frame building with wood lap siding and cedar shingles
for roof. It is two areas: accessible restroom and separate larger storage room space each with
separate entry door. The project is requesting that the rear yard setback of 5-feet be reduced to 2-
feet to allow better positioning of building and limit its visibility from The Green. There was a
previous application back in 2013 for a similar but smaller building that the HDC reviewed and
approved. Staff finds that the project and materials meet the Design Standards and Guidelines, and
that the reduction of the rear yard setback is appropriate.
Representatives: Mr. Tom Summers (Manager of Cultural Resource Section at State Park
CONREC); Mr. Bill Miller (Construction Project Manager-State Park-DNREC); and Melody
Abbott (Archaeologist at State Parks – DNREC).
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Item 2.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION AUGUST 18, 2022
Chairman Czerwinski asked if the area was already excavated (archaeology).
Ms. Abbott replied that majority of the section where the building is located has not been
excavated. They are planning to excavate.
Ms. Horsey asked about previous archaeological testing at the site and when will it take place?
Ms. Abbott replied that she hopes in the fall. For more test pits and then also observation during
construction.
Mr. Miller stated that from a construction we would like to star this Fall.
Chairman Czerwinski asked what the colors were. Mr. Miller replied everything is designed to
match the Bell House as closely as possible (finishes, shingles, and door hardware).
Ms. Horsey asked where you were able to get the materials? Mr. Miller replied that we deal with
contractors that are able to get material from Aspire. It is not as popular as more modern siding,
but they are there when you need it. Plus, it is a small project.
Ms. Horsey moved for approval of HI-22-06 Accessory structure at John Bell House Review of
Architectural Review Certification for Permit #22-1298 for construction of an accessory
structure (restroom and storage) at the John Bell House as submitted to include Staff
recommendations. The motion was seconded by Mr. Street and approved 4-0.
Voice Vote
Ms. Mason - Yes
Mr. Street - Yes
Mr. Czerwinski – Yes
Ms. Horsey -Yes
OLD BUSINESS
Certified Local Government (CLG) Program
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that there were no updates.
Implementation of 2019 Comprehensive Plan
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that there were no updates. The Department of Water and
Wastewater has a Wastewater Master Plan that may be in the hands of the consultant, and they are
working on several water projects like the State Street watermain replacement.
Ms. Horsey asked where the water project starts. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied it will start at
Division Street and goes north. They are currently working on the bids and there will be a lot of
outreach.
Ms. Mason asked if it was on the east or west side. Mrs. Melson-Williams replied that she did not
know.
4
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Item 2.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION AUGUST 18, 2022
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that they are also working on a new well location in Silver Lake
Park. A drawdown will happen in the Fall (October) for Silver Lake.
Ms. Horsey asked about the maintenance of the cemetery (Lakeside Cemetery) and being proactive
with bank maintenance. She asked about the Silver Lake Board that use to be the overseer. Mrs.
Melson-Williams mentioned there is a Silver Lake Commission that is staffed through the City’s
Department of Parks and Recreation. She was not sure of how regularly they meet. If you have
any questions, she will refer the Commission to the Parks and Recreation Staff who was very
proactive with the Lake.
Mary Ellen Gray arrived at the meeting and was welcomed and there will be a Meet and Greet
after the meeting with her.
Ms. Horsey moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Ms. Mason, and unanimously carried
4-0.
Voice Vote to Adjourn the Meeting
Ms. Mason-Yes
Mr. Street – Yes
Mr. Czerwinski – Yes
Ms. Horsey -Yes
Meeting adjourned at 4:30 PM
Sincerely,
Maretta Savage-Purnell
Secretary
5
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City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2022 Item 3.
Updated thru October 10, 2022
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-22-01 Referral of Fence 502 -506 S. State Fence Permit Permit #21-1556 referred to HDC by Permit Application received 11/18/2021
Permit #21-1556 Street and 100 W. City Planner for consultation on and Referred to the HDC for consultation.
at 506 S. State Water Street Architectural Review Certification; Permit approved for issuance per HDC
Street 1/20/2022 HDC recommended action of 1/20/2022. Permit issued
approval of ArchRevCert to allow 1/24/2022. Fence installed.
revised height of 6-feet for black metal
fence.
HI-22-02 Lands of the State 411 S Governors Rezoning to H Public Hearing and Review by HDC on Request to expand boundary of the Historic
of Delaware at S. Avenue, 429 S (Historic District 3/24/2022; Recommended Approval District as Rezoning Application HI-22-02/Z-
Governors Governors Avenue, Zone) of Rezoning 22-01. Public Hearing and Review by
Avenue and W. 435 S Governors Planning Commission on 3/21/2022 -
Water Street: Avenue, 439 S Recommendation of Approval; Public
Rezoning to H Governors Hearing and Review by Historic District
Avenue/117 W Commission on 3/24/2022 -
Water Street, 441 S Recommendation of Approval; and
Governors Avenue, scheduled for Public Hearing and Final
447 S Governors Action by City Council on 4/11/2022.
Avenue Rezoning Approved.
HI-22-03 Kent County 415 S. Governors Site Plan Review for Public Hearing and Review for Site development plan for new Courthouse
Family Avenue and 445 S. Architectural Recommendation on Architectural Building, Parking Garage Structure, and
Courthouse & Governors Avenue; Certification Review Certification by HDC on associated Site Improvements. For Review
Parking Garage East side of S. 4/11/2022. Recommended approval of by HDC completed and recommendation
Governors Avenue ArchRevCert including reduction of forwarded to Planning Commission.
between Bank Lane rear yard setback. Planning Commission granted conditional
and W. Water St approval of S-22-06 and ArchRevCert on
June 21, 2022.
HI-22-04 Referral of Permit 527-529 S. State Permit for Parking Permit #22-661 referred to HDC by City Permit Application received 4/20/2022 and
#22-661 at 527- Street Improvements Planner for consultation on Referred to the HDC for consultation.
529 S. State Architectural Review Certification; HDC Project for construction of seven parking
Street recommended ArchRevCert with spaces on the property. Awaiting
conditions on screening at 5/19/2022 submission of Revised Plan of parking area
Meeting for Permit Review.
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City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2022 Item 3.
Updated thru October 10, 2022
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-22-05 Delaware Public 121 Martin Luther Architectural Review Project referred to HDC by City Planner Proposed Roof Project Referred to the HDC
Archives: King Jr. Boulevard Certification for consultation on Architectural for consultation. Project design
Consultation on North Consultation Review Certification; HDC considered consideration of alternative materials for
Roof Project at 5/19/2022 Meeting and made Roof Replacement Project. Awaiting formal
recommendation of roof material Permit submission.
options.
HI-22-06 Referral of Permit 43 The Green, John Permit for Accessory Permit #22-1298 referred to HDC by Permit Application received 7/25/2022 and
#22-1298 at 43 Bell House Structure (Restroom City Planner for consultation on Referred to the HDC for consultation.
The Green & Storage) Architectural Review Certification; Project for construction of accessory
scheduled for 8/18/2022 Meeting structure on the property.
HI-22-07 Referral of 235-239 West Update on Project referred to HDC by City Planner Building declared Dangerous by City Council
Demolition Loockerman Street Dangerous Building for update on building and proposal on 8/15/2022. Following no action by
Activities at 235- Designation and for Demolition of Dangerous Building; property owner, the City is progressing with
239 W. Demolition Activities item scheduled for 10/20/2022 Bid Process for Demolition.
Loockerman St Meeting
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City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2021 Item 3.
Updated thru October 10, 2022
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-21-01 Referral of Sign 46 S Bradford Street, Sign Permit Permit #21-188 referred to HDC by City Permit Application received 3/2/2021.
Permit #21-188 The Peoples Church Planner on 3/9/2021 for consultation Resubmission of revised Sign Design per
The Peoples on Architectural Review Certification; HDC recommendation received in order to
Church at 46 S 3/18/2021 HDC recommended process Permit subject to conditions.
Bradford St approval of ArchRevCert subject to Permit issued 5/17/2021.
conditions
HI-21-02 Referral of Fence 4 The Green, Mixed Fence Permit Permit #21-147 referred to HDC by City Permit Application received 2/16/2021.
Permit #21-147 at Use Building Planner on 3/9/2021 for consultation Applicant revised fence material choice on
4 The Green on Architectural Review Certification; 3/16/2021 to black metal picket style fence
3/18/2021 HDC recommended and HDC recommended approval. Permit
approval of ArchRevCert for revised review completed per ArchRevCert and
material choice issued 3/25/2021. Fence installed.
HI-21-03 Referral of 129 S Bradford St Demolition Permit - Permit #21-316 referred to HDC by City Permit Application received 4/1/2021 on
Demolition Building Planner on 4/6/2021 for consultation demolition of entire building. Referred to
Permit #21-316 on Architectural Review Certification; HDC for Review on 4/15/2021.Permit
Building at 129 S 4/15/2021 HDC recommended review completed per ArchRevCert and
Bradford St approval to allow for demolition. issued 5/6/2021. Demolition underway.
HI-21-04 Lands of King of 30 The Green (and Site Plan for Parking Review for Architectural Review Site Plan filed for review by Historic District
Clubs, LLC: 123 Bank Lane) Lot Improvements Certification of Site Plan; Public Commission. Administrative Site Plan
Parking Lot Hearing and Review scheduled for HDC review is underway. Improvements are
Improvements on 7/15/2021 associated with future Kent County Family
Court Project.
HI-21-05 Referral of 401 S. Governors Demolition Permit - Permit #21-1036 referred to HDC by Permit Application received 8/6/2021 for
Demolition Avenue Building City Planner on 8/11/2021 for demolition of entire building and site. HDC
Permit #21-1036 consultation on Architectural Review reviewed on 8/19/2021 and granted
Building at 401 S. Certification; scheduled for 8/19/2021 approval of the Architectural Review
Governors Ave HDC Meeting Certification. Permit Issued 9/8/2022 and
Demolition occurred 10/2022.
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City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2021 Item 3.
Updated thru October 10, 2022
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-21-06 Referral of 46 S Bradford Street, Administrative Permit #21-1501 referred to HDC by Permit Application received 11/8/2021.
Building Permit The Peoples Church Building Permit City Planner on 11/9/2021 for Reviewed by HDC on 11/18/2021 and
#21-1501 consultation on Architectural Review granted Architectural Review Certification
Drainage Certification; scheduled for per Staff Recommendations. Permit issued
Improvement at 11/18/2021 HDC Meeting 2/9/2022. Project underway.
the Peoples
Church at 46 S
Bradford St
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Summary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification
Item 4.
2022 - Updated Thru 9-30-2022
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
1/24/2022 21-1556 506 S State St, Office Fence Permit Referral of Permit to HDC for Installation of new black metal
Buildings Consultation 1/20/2022. Revised fence revised to be 6-feet in height.
project granted ArchRevCert. HI-22-01. Fence Installed.
1/13/2022 22-74 147 S New Street, Tastee's Administrative Building Permit Building Inspector Approval only. No Replacement Permit for Permit #19-
Chicken & Seafood ArchRevCert required for interior 1579 related to tenant fit-out for
Restaurant work. restaurant use.
2/9/2022 21-1501 46 S Bradford Street, The Administrative Building Permit Referral of Permit to HDC for Drainage Improvements including
People's Church Consultation 11/18/2021. Project stormwater management facility in
granted ArchRevCert. side yard. HI-21-06
2/8/2022 22-96 201 W Loockerman Street, Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations for tenant fit-
Dove's Restaurant Renovations required for interior work. out of kitchen, etc. for restaurant
and second floor office.
3/24/2022 21-1304 5 E Reed Street, Weyant Fence Permit Staff Approval. Installation of black metal fence
Hall around utility equipment
(generator) area.
4/27/2022 22-175 145 S New Street Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. Interior renovations for residential
Renovations apartments. New Permit to replace
expired Permit for project.
4/20/2022 22-561 54 S State Street, Building Permit - Shed Staff Approval. Placement of shed at rear of
Presbyterian Church building near alley. Not visible from
4/13/2022 22-616 307 S State Street, Office Sign Permit Staff Approval. bli
Installation (of projecting
) sign on
existing bracket.
4/20/2022 22-617 527 S State Street A Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations to existing
Renovations required for interior work. apartment unit and common space
in basement area.
4/20/2022 22-618 527 S State Street B Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations to existing
Renovations required for interior work. apartment unit.
5/3/2022 22-625 150 E Water Street, Del-One Building Permit - Window Staff Approval. Replacement of windows within
Buildings Replacement existing openings and retaining
precast detailing.
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Summary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification
Item 4.
2022 - Updated Thru 9-30-2022
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
7/19/2022 22-589 304 South State Street Building Permit - Renovations Staff Approval. Exterior and interior renovations to
reconstruction the front façade wall
and other structural support work.
New wall to replicate brick wall with
window openings and reinstallation
of cast iron window headers and
other detailing.
7/26/2022 22-1114 144 Kings Highway SW, Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations to kitchen and
Governors Club Building Renovations required for interior work. dining room areas of Restaurant.
7/11/2022 22-1115 501 South State Street, Temporary Sign Permit Staff Approval. Installation of Banner as Temporary
Christ Church Sign.
8/15/2022 22-1317 411 Legislative Avenue, Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval. West exterior stair project with
Legislative Hall Renovations reconstruction and snow melt
system.
8/17/2022 22-1321 152 S Governors Avenue Fence Permit Staff Approval. Replacement of white picket fence
and required to be 4 feet in height
or less.
9/8/2022 21-1036 401 S Governors Avenue Demolition Permit Referral of Permit to HDC for Demolition of Building and site for
Consultation 8/19/2021. HDC property associated with future
granted ArchRevCert. Kent County Family Courthouse
project development.
9/8/2022 22-180 429 S Governors Avenue Demolition Permit Staff Approval. Demolition of Building for property
associated with future Kent County
Family Courthouse project
development.
9/8/2022 22-181 435 S Governors Avenue Demolition Permit Staff Approval. Demolition of Building for property
associated with future Kent County
Family Courthouse project
development.
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Summary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification
Item 4.
2022 - Updated Thru 9-30-2022
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
9/8/2022 22-183 447 S Governors Avenue Demolition Permit Staff Approval. Demolition of Building for property
associated with future Kent County
Family Courthouse project
development.
9/13/2022 22-1379 150 E Water Street near Del- Building Permit Staff Approval. Replacement deck (wood to metal)
One Building at Air Quality Monitoring Station.
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Paj 30
Item 6.
City of Dover
STAFF REPORT
to the
Dover Historic District Commission
October 20, 2022
Location: 233-239 West Loockerman Street, Dover DE
(Also addressed as 149 S. New Street, Dover DE)
Northeast corner of West Loockerman Street and South New Street
Tax Parcel: ED-05-077.09-01-50.00-000
Owner: SAG Holdings LLC
Present Zoning: C-2 (Central Commercial Zone)
H (Historic District Zone)
Present Use: Commercial/Residential Building (fire damaged)
File Number: HI-22-07
Notification of Dangerous Building:
The City Planner (on behalf of the Code Enforcement Division) is referring the building at 233-
239 W. Loockerman Street to the Historic District Commission for consideration for
Determination of Demolition by Neglect and for Review of Architectural Review Certification for
Demolition. Demolition Activities are pending for this existing fire damaged commercial &
residential building. The property was declared a Dangerous Building by City Council on August
15, 2022.
The City Planner (and Code Enforcement Division) has submitted information related to the
condition and status of the Building as part of notifying the Historic District Commission of its
designation as a Dangerous Building. See attached Cover Letter, Timeline, Pre-Demolition
Condition Assessment Report, and Excerpts from the Asbestos Inspection Report.
Property Description:
The building at 233-239 West Loockerman Street is located on one parcel of land zoned C-2
(Central Commercial Zone) and subject to the H (Historic District Zone). The property is located
at the northeast corner of West Loockerman Street and South New Street. The owner of record is
SAG Holdings, LLC. Property Addresses: 233-239 West Loockerman Street. Tax Parcel: ED-05-
077.09-01-50.00-000. Council District 4.
Building and Property Information:
The building is a three story brick building located at the corner of two streets. The building’s
front façade faces West Loockerman Street where the first floor consists of a series large display
windows and entrances for multiple commercial tenant spaces and also a doorway entrance to
P. O. Box 475 Dover, DE 19903 30
Community Excellence Through Quality Service
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Item 6.
Referral of Property at 233-239 West Loockerman Street
For Consideration of Demolition Activities
October 20, 2022
Page | 2
some of the upper floor apartment units. The secondary façade faces S. New Street with a few
larger window openings on the first floor and also a doorway entry for the upper floor apartments
in this section of the building. On the front façade, the windows of the upper floors are found in
four bays of three window sets. The New Street elevation, also in brick, includes a paired
window set pattern for the upper floor windows. The brickwork of the upper floors on both
facades includes a patterning of pilasters and then a detailed, articulated brick cornice at the top
of the parapet wall of the seemingly flat roof. From the front façade view, the brickwork seems
to indicate two phases of construction of two bays each.
This building is located within a National Register Historic District, specifically the Victorian
Dover Historic District. Provided below is the building summary from the building inventory
listing found within the National Register nomination completed for the Victorian Dover Historic
District (nomination completed 1977-78).
K-396.81 233-239 West Loockerman Street – 1920s, 3-story, 4x8 bay, brick
commercial/residential structure; flat roof, decorative brick cornice, pilaster strips; 6/1 sash triple
windows on 2nd and 3rd floor levels; large display windows for 4 separate businesses on 1st floor
level.
The property is located within H (Historic District zone) as established by the City of Dover.
A series of historic maps was reviewed by Planning Staff for preliminary information on this
block of Loockerman Street. The 1868 Beers Map published by Pomeroy & Beers shows the
established street grid of the Loockerman Street vicinity; no buildings are noted on the map at
this corner where New Street terminates but the ownership is listed as T.S. (believed to be T.
Slaughter per other map notations). By 1885, the 1885 Bird’s Eye View of Dover shows this
block on the north side of Loockerman Street at New Street developed with multiple buildings
(both commercial and residential) with a series of commercial buildings and a hotel on the
opposite (south) side of Loockerman Street for the block. The 1887 Map of the Town of Dover
by W.R. Roe depicts the subject site with a series of residential looking buildings.
The series of Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps is also a reference source for information on the
series of buildings which occupied this property over time. During the period of 1885 - 1919 the
location at 233-239 West Loockerman initially shows a series of two-story residential dwellings
with notations of commercial activity (office, fancy notions, and photo) likely occurring in a first
floor street facing location. This mix of buildings with residential and commercial uses (office,
photo, notions, clothing, fruit, dry goods, tailor) continues in the 1891, 1897, 1904, 1910, and
1919 Maps with some expansions of the buildings. By 1929, it appears that the previous two
story buildings were demolished. On the 1929 Map, a new three story building constructed at
235 W. Loockerman Street was identified as a drugstore with the corner site as vacant. It appears
redevelopment continued at the corner location with another three story building/building
addition (store) being added prior to 1951. Generally, this is the current form of the building.
Additional research using other primary and secondary source documents would provide more
information on the history of the property and buildings.
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Item 6.
Referral of Property at 233-239 West Loockerman Street
For Consideration of Demolition Activities
October 20, 2022
Page | 3
Photo documentation
from the 1960-1970s
shows this building as a
commercial &
residential building (see
photo at right). It is a
four bay brick masonry
building with a front
façade with large
storefront display
windows for multiple
tenant spaces on the first
floor and entry door (far
right) to apartments
above.
The building was
utilized most recently as
several retail
establishments on the first floor with apartment units on the second and third floors.
Code Enforcement History Summary:
The Building at 233, 235-239 West Loockerman Street suffered a fire on March 16, 2022 and
was subsequently condemned. The Building was secured by fencing and the first floor openings
boarded (with additional boarding in the following months). During the Summer of 2022, the
Code Enforcement Division sent multiple notices of violation and also started the process to
address the violations through the provisions of Chapter 22 – Buildings and Building
Regulations, Article XI – Dangerous Buildings. When the property owner failed to take action to
repair or demolish, the Building was presented to City Council for consideration as a Dangerous
Building. City Council declared it a Dangerous Building on August 15, 2022 giving the property
owner a final specific timeframe to act. As no remedial actions have occurred, the City is moving
forward with a process to demolish the building. This includes completion of an asbestos survey,
asbestos abatement activities, and issuance of a Bid for Demolition.
The City has issued a Bid for Demolition of the Building (#23-0003PI) outlining a scope of work
for the Demolition and information on the Asbestos Evaluation and Abatement. The project
activities involve the demolition of the existing three-story building on the property and removal
of debris. Asbestos abatement is proposed in two phases occurring prior to and during
demolition. The lot will be brought to grade and stabilized; there are also some sidewalk repairs
(from removal of basement entrances). A Demolition Permit will be required.
Review for DETERMINATION OF DEMOLITION BY NEGLECT
With the referenced information the City Planner/Code Enforcement Division is reporting the
Dangerous Building to the Historic District Commission as related to consideration as
“Demolition by Neglect.” The following code excerpts from the Dover Code of Ordinance,
Appendix B: Zoning (Zoning Ordinance) are provided:
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Item 6.
Referral of Property at 233-239 West Loockerman Street
For Consideration of Demolition Activities
October 20, 2022
Page | 4
The Zoning Ordinance defines “Demolition by Neglect” as:
Improper maintenance or lack of maintenance of a building, structure or object which results
in substantial and widespread deterioration of the building, structure or object which
threatens the likelihood of preservation and which presents a threat to the public safety,
health and welfare of the immediate community.
The following is the Code citation from the Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 § 3.4 Demolition by
neglect.
Zoning Ordinance, Article 10, Section 3
3.4 Demolition by neglect.
3.41 Responsibility of property owners. Property owners of properties within the historic districts
shall not allow their buildings to be demolished by neglect (see Definitions, article 12) by failing
to provide ordinary maintenance or repair.
3.42 Responsibility of the historic district commission. The historic district commission shall
monitor the condition of historic properties and existing buildings in the historic district to
determine if they are being demolished by neglect by failing to provide ordinary maintenance and
repair (see Definitions, article 12). In the event that the commission determines a demolition by
neglect is occurring, it shall carry out the following:
(A) Determine and set forth steps required to remedy the situations or defects.
(B) Direct the city planner to inform the property owners of its findings, determination, and
recommended remedies.
(C) In the event that the property owners fail to commence work within the reasonable
time allotted by the commission, the commission may direct the building inspector to begin
proceedings under chapter 22, buildings, and building regulations, article XI, dangerous
buildings, of the Code of Ordinances for the City of Dover to bring about the repair or
demolition of the building.
3.43 Responsibility of the city planner. The city planner shall notify the historic district
commission of buildings within the historic district that have been referred to him by the building
inspector that meet the definition of dangerous buildings under the provisions of chapter 22
Buildings and Building Regulations, article XI Dangerous Buildings, of the Code of Ordinances
for the City of Dover. In such cases the commission shall determine if the building is being
demolished by neglect. Before referring a property to the commission for consideration as
demolition by neglect, the city planner shall give written notice to the owner, occupant,
mortgagee, lessee, agent, and all other persons having an interest in said building, as shown by
the records of the recorder of deeds of the county, to appear before historic district commission
at the time, date and location specified.
Review of DESIGN STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES – For Demolition Activities
The subject property is located in the Dover Historic District Zone within the Loockeman
Historic Context. The Loockerman Historic Context is described on pages 2-7 through 2-8.
Location within the Dover Historic District Zone requires proposals for specific types of
construction activities such as new construction, additions to existing buildings, exterior
renovations, and demolition of buildings to receive an Architectural Review Certificate.
As stated in the Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District Zone,
an Architectural Review Certificate will be granted for the project “if it is found that the
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Item 6.
Referral of Property at 233-239 West Loockerman Street
For Consideration of Demolition Activities
October 20, 2022
Page | 5
architectural style, general design, height, bulk and setbacks, arrangement location and materials
affecting the exterior appearance are generally in harmony with neighboring structures and
complementary to the traditional architectural standards of the historic district.”
Referral of Future Demolition Permit:
Since the filing of a Demolition Permit for 233-239 W. Loockerman Street is expected as part of
the Demolition Process, the Demolition Activities are being referred by the City Planner to the
Historic District Commission for consultation regarding the issuance of the Architectural Review
Certificate for the Demolition project. Applications for certain types of construction activity
within the Historic District Zone (H) are reviewed by the City Planner (or Staff as designated)
for Architectural Review Certification as part of the Building Permit application review process.
See the following provisions of Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 Section 3.22(A) and (B).
Section 3.22 Architectural review certification by the city planner.
(A) An architectural review certificate for specific classes of building permits, including
fences, signs, siding, window and door replacement, roofing, the addition or replacement
of decorative features, minor demolition, residential additions, and other construction of a
minor nature, may be issued by the city planner, after a review and determination that the
proposed construction is in general accordance with the standards set forth in subsection
3.25.
(B) The city planner may refer any permit application for demolition or construction in the
historic district for consultation with commission.
The Historic District Commission will act on an Architectural Review Certificate as related to
Demolition of the Building.
The Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District Zone address the
issue of demolition within the Historic District. The proposal for demolition of the building must
be reviewed for conformity with the design criteria guidelines found in Chapter 4: New
Construction, Additions, Demolition and Relocation. See Chapter 4 (pages 4-10 to 4-12). It also
specifically references “Demolition by Neglect” on page 4-11.
The Design Standards and Guidelines gives guidance to the Historic District Commission by
listing specific criteria to be evaluated when considering applications for the demolition of
buildings in the historic district. These guidelines are summarized below (see Design Standards
and Guidelines for the complete text).
1. Determine the financial implications of maintaining a property versus demolition.
2. Regardless of economic issues the relative significance of the individual buildings
slated for demolition should be evaluated.
3. In development related applications the City should review the schematic plans for
the new structures to weigh the virtues of the new structure versus what exists.
4. Determine the extent of adequate recordation of a property the applicant would be
required to complete if demolition were approved.
34
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Item 6.
Referral of Property at 233-239 West Loockerman Street
For Consideration of Demolition Activities
October 20, 2022
Page | 6
5. Lots left vacant by demolition should be treated in a manner that is sympathetic to
the historic context.
The Design Standards and Guidelines note that parking should not be permitted on vacant lots
and suggests alternative uses. The Design Standards and Guidelines outline standards and
guidelines for development activities.
STAFF COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The following are the Staff comments and recommendations for this application regarding
proposed Demolition activities, Determination of Demolition of Neglect, and an Architectural
Review Certificate for Demolition
1) The Design Standards and Guidelines outline specific criteria to be evaluated in considering
demolition applications (page 4-10 and 4-12). The building has been condemned (in March
2022 by the Code Enforcement Division) and declared a Dangerous Building (by City
Council on August 15, 2022); and this is the reasoning for demolition of the Building. In
addition to documents provided, more specific information may be received at the Historic
District Commission meeting from the presentation.
a) Based on the Code Enforcement case information and professional inspection
documents, Staff notes that approval for the demolition of the Building may be
warranted due to the fire damage and the building’s deteriorating condition.
b) The building has continued to deteriorate over recent months with limited action by
the property owner to address identified City Code Enforcement violations.
c) The condition of the building a safety concern to the surrounding area including
adjacent buildings, sidewalk areas, and streets.
Staff recommends that the Historic District Commission determine that the property is being
“Demolished by Neglect” and identify the appropriate action steps.
2) Staff recommends issuance of the Architectural Review Certification to allow for Demolition
Activities subject to the following conditions pertaining to the building demolition. These
conditions are presented in an effort to improve the project’s compliance with the
recommended guidelines for consideration of demolition in the Design Standards and
Guidelines and other code provisions:
a) A specific timeframe for demolition activities and site stabilization activities should
be established.
b) The building footprint will need to be appropriately stabilized, brought to grade, and
planted with grass. Other elements of landscaping, fencing, etc. could be required as
part of the site stabilization.
c) All utilities must be properly capped and/or abandoned in accordance with City of
Dover requirements.
d) The street frontage sidewalk area should be restored as a concrete surface in
accordance with City of Dover requirements after removal of the basement access
ways to the building.
3) If the property is to remain vacant, then appropriate stabilization and/or beautification
measures may need to be taken to control access and to ensure maintenance of landscaping.
35
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Item 6.
Referral of Property at 233-239 West Loockerman Street
For Consideration of Demolition Activities
October 20, 2022
Page | 7
Consideration should be given to the interim condition of the property following demolition.
At a minimum, the site should be established with a grass lawn area and maintained.
a) The site has the potential for additional landscaping elements beyond lawn area to
include other landscaping such as shrub plantings, tree plantings, planters, raised
gardens, etc.
b) If the property is to be fenced, Staff does not recommend installation of solid
(opaque) fencing or chain link fencing on the site. If areas need to be segregated on
the site, other alternative fence styles such as ornamental metal fencing, short posts
with roping, etc. less than four feet in height may be more appropriate.
c) Other site furnishings could be considered such as seating areas, benches, and public
art installations.
4) Staff notes that some minor documentation/recordation of the existing building has occurred
in the form of a series of exterior/interior photographs which are part of the Code
Enforcement case files and inspection documents. The Historic District Commission should
evaluate if additional documentation/recordation of the existing building is deemed
appropriate for this property.
5) Also be aware of the potential for historic archaeological resources which may include
previous building locations, wells, privies, etc. on this property.
ADVISORY COMMENTS:
1) A Demolition Permit is required to proceed with any demolition activities on the property.
The Demolition Permit application must comply with the conditions of approval granted
through the Architectural Review Certification process.
2) In the event, that major changes and revisions to the project proposal occur, contact the
Department of Planning and Inspections. These changes may require resubmittal for review
by the Historic District Commission.
3) This Architectural Review Certification review process is specific to the Demolition Permit
only and does not grant approval for redevelopment of the site. For future redevelopment of
the property/building, additional plan review and approvals, and construction activity
permitting is necessary to address compliance with the Zoning Ordinance and for compliance
with the Design Standards and Guidelines for development in the Historic District.
Historic District Commission Action Required
The Historic District Commission shall determine if the building is being “Demolished by
Neglect” and set forth steps to remedy the situation. Such steps may include demolition of the
structure. The Historic District Commission shall consider a pending request for a Demolition
Activities and take action in regard to the Architectural Review Certification for the demolition
proposal. The action should reflect consideration of the Design Standards and Guidelines.
Attachments:
• Items on Property Status from City Planner/Code Enforcement Staff: Cover Letter, Timeline
of Events, Excerpt of Asbestos Inspection Survey, and Pre-Demolition Condition Assessment
Report
36
Paj 37
Item 6.
Department of
Code Enforcement
City of Dover
15 Loockerman Plaza Phone: (302) 736-7010
Dover, DE 19901 Fax: (302) 736-4217
October 12, 2022
RE: Historic District Commission Meeting
Demolition of Dangerous Building
235-239 West Loockerman Steet
ED-05-077.09-01-500.000-000
Case(s) 22-00001286 & 22-00003360
Property Owner: SAG HOLDINGS LLC
2001 Market St STE 2500
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Interested Parties:
This property was condemned due a fire that occurred on March 17th, 2022. The property owner
SAG Holding LLC was properly notified. The property owner is now being represented by Patrick
Rock. There was no insurance for the property and the owner is unable to afford the required
repairs. The property has been vacant since the fire with no repairs or clean-up efforts made. City
Staff inspects the property on a regular basis to monitor the conditions of the building. During
these inspections it has been determined the building is deteriorating at a rapid rate and is becoming
unstable daily. City Staff, the City Mayor, and City Council have received numerous complaints
about the condition of the property. This resulted in the Mayor issuing an Executive Order on
August 1st, 2022. In addition, this property was presented to City Council on August 15th, 2022.
The decision of City Council was to order the building demolished by August 31st, 2022. Due to
the lack of responsiveness from the property owner, the City started the process of demolition. The
City of Dover did hire a contractor to board the property on two occasions. This was due to the
vandalism that was occurring. The City also has the entrances boarded due to a break-in that
occurred on October 2nd, 2022. The City has also consulted with a structural engineer to provide
guidelines on how to safely demolish the building without the effect to the adjacent buildings. The
asbestos inspection has also been conducted and the bids for the asbestos abatement were sent. On
October 10th, 2022, the bid for asbestos abatement was presented before City Council and a
contractor was awarded the contract. The initial phase of the asbestos abatement will start on
October 17th, 2022. Demolition bids have been requested and are due to be retuned on October
26th, 2022. It is the intention of Code Enforcement to follow the order of City Council and cause
the building to be demolished.
If you have any questions concerning this letter, please contact me at 302-736-7010, or by email
ekopp@dover.de.us
Sincerely,
Eddie Kopp
Chief Code Enforcement Officer
Enclosures: Asbestos Inspection Survey, Engineering Report, Timeline CC: File
37
Community Excellence Through Quality Service
Paj 45
Item 6.
PRE-DEMOLITION CONDITION ASSESSMENT REPORT
FOR
237 AND 239 WEST LOOCKERMAN STREET
DOVER, DELAWARE
September 2022
Prepared For
THE CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE
Prepared By
550 S. BAY ROAD, DOVER, DELAWARE 19901 (302)734-9188
45
Paj 46
Item 6.
CONTENTS
I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .......................................................................................................................... 1
II. PURPOSE AND SCOPE ........................................................................................................................... 1
A. General Description .......................................................................................................................... 2
B. Documents Reviewed ....................................................................................................................... 2
C. Limiting Considerations .................................................................................................................... 2
III. OBSERVATIONS ................................................................................................................................. 2
A. Building Construction:....................................................................................................................... 2
B. Hazards: ............................................................................................................................................ 2
C. General Structural Condition: ........................................................................................................... 3
IV. DEMOLITION RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................................................. 4
Photo Logs: 5
I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Century Engineering, LLC, (Century) performed a site observation of the buildings at 237 and 239 West
Loockerman Street, Dover Delaware on September 13, 2022. This building experienced a fire in March
2022 and sustained significant structural fire damage in the southwest portion of the structure, and water
damage throughout the rest of the building. Now condemned, the building is to be demolished.
The purpose of the site visit was to evaluate the structural integrity of the damaged building and identify
areas of concern that could compromise or damage the adjacent building at 231 West Loockerman Street,
which was not damaged during the fire and is to remain in place.
Buildings 237/239 are constructed as one building with common exterior walls and commercial façade
facing Loockerman Street. It was determined that 237/239 are not directly in contact with 231 and have
a physical gap of approximately 4-inches separating the two buildings.
II. PURPOSE AND SCOPE
The pre-demolition structural condition assessment is performed to better understand the present
condition of the building and confirm that demolition activities may be performed safely, and that the
chances of unplanned collapse are minimized. The report has been prepared in accordance with EM-385-
1-1, USACE Safety and Health manual, 30 November 2014. This report is based on the observations or
Walter J. Hoey, P.E., and Richard A. Beard, P.E., Senior Structural Engineer.
46
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Item 6.
City of Dover
Pre-Demolition Structural Condition Assessment
237 and 239 West Loockerman Street
A. General Description
Our inspection is a “walk-through” visual-type assessment performed by qualified personnel. No
material testing (destructive or otherwise) or calculations were performed to determine the
adequacy of the original design. Our Structural Condition Assessment is intended to be a general,
overall “snapshot” of the building on the date the inspection was performed. It will not be a
technically exhaustive or detailed evaluation of existing conditions.
B. Documents Reviewed
There were no record drawings provided or reviewed for this building.
C. Limiting Considerations
Century has performed a visual inspection of the building included in this report. As stated, no
demolition or exposure of covered structural elements was performed. Hidden or latent
unobserved conditions may exist that cannot be seen or included in this report. Photographs
provided are to show general conditions. HAZMAT (asbestos, etc.) investigations shall be by
others and are not specifically covered by this report.
Hazards noted in this report are visual observations and may not be all inclusive.
III. OBSERVATIONS
A. Building Construction:
The building is a constructed as one structure with a central demising wall running the length and
height of buildings 237/239 in a north south orientation, perpendicular to Loockerman Street.
The exterior walls and the demising wall are load bearing brick masonry supporting steel and
timber girders placed in an east west orientation. Timber floor joists, supported by the masonry
walls and girders, run in a north south direction for the first, second, and third floors and for the
third floor ceilings. Roof construction consists of timber trusses placed in an east west direction
and supported by the exterior and demising walls. Both 237 and 239 have a full basement with
both interior and exterior access.
B. Hazards:
Several hazards that may impact demolition operations were noted:
The floors in some areas are covered with thick debris preventing the identification of
holes or weak spots in the flooring.
Evidence of mold was noted in the basement.
The top portion of the west masonry wall is unsupported at areas where the roof trusses
have been destroyed by the fire. Without the lateral support of the roof, this section of
wall has the potential to fall to the sidewalk below under strong winds or from settlement
within the building.
Water damage has caused ceiling tiles and plaster to fall on the floors.
The brick masonry chimney on the north side of the building contains large longitudinal
cracks on two sides and has the potential to fall.
Page |2 47
Paj 48
Item 6.
City of Dover
Pre-Demolition Structural Condition Assessment
237 and 239 West Loockerman Street
Hazardous materials cannot be segregated due to the partial collapse of portions of the
building and the fire and water damage throughout.
C. General Structural Condition:
Overall, the power has been turned off to both buildings. However, at the time of this site visit,
the power had not been disconnected. Water is still on and running out of damaged hot-water
radiators in Building 237. The city is working to get the water turned off at the main water valve(s)
on Loockerman and Queen Streets. Natural gas has been turned off to the building. However,
the gas lines and meters are still connected at the rear of the building.
Building 239:
Fire damage is primarily contained to the southern section of the structure and extends from the
first floor through the roof, compromising all elements. Floors have been weakened by fire
damage and from water saturation. Portions of floors are missing, especially at the southeast
corner of the structure. Second floor joists display severe charring and section loss toward the
front of the building.
The roof has suffered significant fire damage and burned through in numerous locations. Roof
joists have been compromised or completely destroyed in some areas. Access to the roof was
not possible at the time of this site visit.
Brick masonry foundation walls are visible in the basement. These walls appear sound and
undamaged from the fire and water. However, mold is visible throughout the basement, including
black mold on the walls and ceilings and an unknown white mold resembling cotton candy hanging
from the first floor joists.
The brick chimney located on the exterior of the rear (north) wall contains large vertical cracks on
the east and west sides. These cracks extend from the first floor to the top of the chimney. This
element presents a hazard to the existing undamaged building to remain located just to the north
of building 239.
Building 237:
Extensive water damage is noted in building 237. Floors are covered with ceiling tiles and other
ceiling construction having failed from being saturated with water. The majority of the damage
appears to be smoke damage on the first floor and some minor fire damage to the ceiling in the
front room.
Page |3 48
Paj 49
Item 6.
City of Dover
Pre-Demolition Structural Condition Assessment
237 and 239 West Loockerman Street
IV. DEMOLITION RECOMMENDATIONS
Considering buildings 237/239 are not attached to any of the adjacent buildings, it appears that
demolition of the fire damaged buildings can be performed with some precautions.
Demolition methods should consider the use of a backhoe type equipment with a claw
attachment. This equipment should be positioned on Queen Street, pulling down the building
from west to east.
The contractor should consider installing cables between the east and west exterior walls of the
building to prevent unintentional or sudden collapse of the building, to control the demolition of
the walls and to avoid movement toward structures to remain.
The damaged chimney on the north end of the building should be carefully demolished to prevent
the structure from falling on the building directly to the north.
Care should be exercised with removal of the easterly wall adjacent to building 231 to ensure it
does not collapse or kick back to the east during removal of the floor joists or the wall itself.
Foundation walls should be removed with care following the removal of floor joists and girders.
Temporary bracing is recommended to prevent their unintentional failures. We recommend the
foundation walls be removed to 1-foot below finished grade and the area backfilled to finished
grade.
The basement floors should be broken up to allow drainage prior to backfilling. The basement
doors within the sidewalk should be removed, the utility well backfilled, and the surface finished
with a concrete sidewalk to match the surrounding sidewalk.
All basement areas should be backfilled with clean fill as soon as possible to prevent collapse of
the adjacent areas. This operation should be performed whether the foundation walls are
removed or not. Temporary shoring may be required to maintain the integrity of the surrounding
sidewalks and buildings.
Heavy loads, such as dumpsters and vehicles, should not be allowed on the sidewalks to prevent
additional lateral loads on the foundation walls, especially as demolition progresses.
The east brick foundation wall is anticipated to be a separate structure from building 231.
However, the footings of two buildings may be in contact or cast together. Additionally, the two
foundation walls may have some shared elements that will only be revealed during demolition.
It is recommended to have a structural engineer on site during demolition to observe the progress
and ensure the operation is not compromising the buildings to remain.
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Paj 50
City of Dover
Item 6.
Pre-Demolition Structural Condition Assessment
237 and 239 West Loockerman Street
Photo #1 – South Elevation facing West Loockerman Street
Photo #2 – West Elevation facing South New Street
Page |5 50
Paj 51
City of Dover
Item 6.
Pre-Demolition Structural Condition Assessment
237 and 239 West Loockerman Street
Photo #3 and #4 – Separation Between Adjacent Building on West Loockerman Street
Page |6 51
Paj 52
City of Dover
Item 6.
Pre-Demolition Structural Condition Assessment
237 and 239 West Loockerman Street
Photo #5 - Rear Alley Looking East Photo #6 - Rear Alley Looking West
Page |7 52
Paj 53
City of Dover
Item 6.
Pre-Demolition Structural Condition Assessment
237 and 239 West Loockerman Street
Photo #7 - Rear Basement Access to Building 237
Photos #8 – Rear Alley looking East
Page |8 53
Paj 54
City of Dover
Item 6.
Pre-Demolition Structural Condition Assessment
237 and 239 West Loockerman Street
Photo #9 - Building 239 - First Floor
Photo #10 – Building 239, Second Floor Joists Severely Burned
Page |9 54
Paj 55
City of Dover
Item 6.
Pre-Demolition Structural Condition Assessment
237 and 239 West Loockerman Street
Photo #11 – Third Floor Fire Damage
Photon #12 – Third Floor Ceiling and Roof Damage
P a g e | 10 55
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City of Dover
Item 6.
Pre-Demolition Structural Condition Assessment
237 and 239 West Loockerman Street
Photo #13 – Roof Rafters Burned Through – Roof Open to Daylight
Photo #14 - Mold Growing on Walls in Basement
P a g e | 11 56
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City of Dover
Item 6.
Pre-Demolition Structural Condition Assessment
237 and 239 West Loockerman Street
Photo #15 - Mold Growing on Ceiling in Basement
Photo #16 - Building 237 – First Floor
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Paj 58
City of Dover
Item 6.
Pre-Demolition Structural Condition Assessment
237 and 239 West Loockerman Street
Photo #17 - Building 237 – Lower Level
Photo #18 - Building 237 – Basement with Mold on Walls
P a g e | 13 58
Paj 59
City of Dover
Item 6.
Pre-Demolition Structural Condition Assessment
237 and 239 West Loockerman Street
Photo #19 - Building 237 – Second Floor Gas Hot-Water Furnace in Mechanical Closet
(Similar Gas Hot-Water Furnace on Third Floor)
P a g e | 14 59
Paj 60
Item 6.
Timeline of Events
235-239 West Loockerman St
(ED-05-077.09-01-500.000.000)
SAG Holding LLC
• March 17th, 2022- Condemned due to fire damage.
• March 17th, 2022- Notice of Condemnation was sent to owner.
• June 16th, 2022- Inspection was conducted with no repairs made
to the building.
• June 30th, 2022- Inspection was conducted with no repairs made
to the building. The building was found unsecured. Dover
Police was contacted to clear the building. The building was
resecured by Code Enforcement.
• July 14th, 2022- Inspection was conducted with no repairs made
to the building.
• July 28th, 2022- Inspection was conducted with no repairs made
to the building.
• August 1st, 2022- Mayor made Executive Order to demolish the
building.
• August 3rd, 2022- Inspection was conducted with no repairs
made to the building.
• August 15th, 2022- Property was presented before council to be
declared Dangerous. Council ordered the building be
demolished on or after August 30, 2022.
• August 24th, 2022- Site visit with council. Order of demolition
remained in effect after visit.
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Paj 61
Item 6.
• September 1st-3rd, 2022- Building was boarded on all levels. This
was to prevent vandalism and protect the overall safety of the
public.
• September 7th, 2022- Site visit with Compliance Environmental
to conduct asbestos testing.
• September 8th, 2022- Site visit with Compliance Environmental
to conduct asbestos testing.
• September 9th, 2022- Site visit with Compliance Environmental
to conduct asbestos testing.
• September 13th, 2022- Site visit with Century Engineering to for
recommendations on how to demolish the building safely.
• September 23rd, 2022- Received feedback from the Century
Engineering that the building did have the potential for
collapse.
• September 24th, 2022- Due to the recommendation from the
engineer the sidewalk and parking areas was closed on the New
Street side.
• September 26th, 2022- Site visit with Chesapeake Utilities to
discuss retiring the gas line to the property.
• September 27th, 2022- Site visit with Asbestos abatement
contractors for a pre-bid meeting.
• September 30th, 2022- Inspection was conducted to ensure the
building was secured and barriers were in place due to threat of
weather.
• October 1st, 2022- Inspection was conducted to ensure the
building was secured and barriers were in place due to threat of
weather.
• October 2nd, 2022- Inspection was conducted to ensure the
building was secured and barriers were in place due to threat of
weather.
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Paj 62
Item 6.
• October 3rd, 2022- Inspection was conducted. Forced entry was
discovered through two doors that was previously screwed
shut. Dover Police was contacted but due to the deterioration
of the building they were not able to conduct a full search.
• October 7th. 2022.- The condition of the building continues to
deteriorate. It is staff’s recommendation to demolish the
building to protect the overall welfare and safety of the public.
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