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REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular Council Meeting was held on September 12, 2016 at 8:00 p.m. with Council President
Slavin presiding. Council members present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil, Mr. Lewis,
Mr. Cole, Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Hare, and Mr. Hutchison.
Council staff members present were Police Chief Bernat, Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Koenig,
Mrs. Townshend, Deputy Fire Chief Rhodes, City Solicitor Rodriguez, and Mrs. McDowell.
Mayor Christiansen was also present (departed at 8:06 p.m.).
OPEN FORUM
The Open Forum was held at 7:16 p.m., prior to commencement of the Official Council Meeting.
Council President Slavin declared the Open Forum in session and reminded those present that
Council was not in official session and could not take formal action. Council President Slavin asked
the audience to refrain from applause because it could be intimidating to someone who wanted to
speak if they did not agree with a particular point of view.
Pastor Robert Appling, Victory Church, 2648 Sharon Hill Road, informed members that he was
representing those who have no voice: the homeless. He stated that he came to Dover 38 years ago,
had built three (3) churches and two (2) parsonages, and had owned property on the corner of
Division Street and Governors Avenue, as well as two (2) other properties in Dover, which he
believed gave him the right to speak about the needs of the community. Pastor Appling expressed
deep concern about housing the homeless for the upcoming winter, and felt this need could be
alleviated by renovating, restoring, and utilizing abandoned buildings downtown and empty
businesses all around town. He felt that this is an important item that City Council and citizens of
Dover and Kent County need to address. Pastor Appling informed members that some people think
of the homeless as criminals, drug addicts, and drunks; however, many are educated and looking for
jobs, and his church had been working with other churches to feed and house as many as they could.
He requested that Council put the needs of the homeless on their agenda in the near future.
Mr. EShed Alston advised members that he had been a resident of Dover for 42 years, and he
supported this community and Pastor Appling, whom he had known since they were both young
men. He stated that he had done some research prior to the meeting and found that the federal
government spent $114B to settle illegal aliens into the country last year. Mr. Alston felt that if the
government could spend that much money on people who are here illegally, they should be able to
spend as much on the people who are here legally. He believed that the City needs to have
compassion for the poor and homeless, and homelessness can happen to anyone if misfortune befalls
them. Mr. Alston advised Council members that if this happened to them, they would better
understand the plight of the homeless. He also stated that citizens should not have to ask, but that
they have a right to demand that the government help them because the government works for the
citizens.
Ms. Marla Purvis, 9 Par Haven Drive, Apartment C-34, shared that she had been homeless for four-
and-a-half-years while living in Prince George’s County, Maryland; Atlanta, Georgia; and Orlando,
Florida. She stated that she spent most of her time on the streets, but was in and out of homeless
shelters during that time. Ms. Purvis explained that government officials had directed her to
resources that were specific to her situation and, ultimately, this assistance was what she needed to
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overcome homelessness. She felt that a person needs a safe, secure place to sleep and take a bath
before they can concentrate on setting goals, making plans, and executing them. Ms. Purvis was very
grateful for all of the help that she received and wanted to share her story to encourage the
community to continue to provide the resources that the homeless need.
Pastor Aaron Appling, Victory Church, 2648 Sharon Hill Road, called on the audience to raise their
hands if they were homeless or had recently been homeless, and many people raised their hands. He
stated that he was a native of Dover and a descendent from the Nanticoke bloodline that dates back
further than most people in the room. Pastor Appling wanted to remind members that the homeless
men and women are here, they are real, and this is a real problem. He recalled a speech given by
Martin Luther King, Jr., where he told a story about a rich man and a poor man named Lazarus, who
was at the rich man’s gate every day begging for crumbs. Pastor Appling found it interesting that
he sees people sleeping in front of the gates of City Hall every night. He stated that the passion and
emotion coming from people in this room was not anger but a peaceful expression, and reminded
those present that this country was founded by people who came to places like this and
communicated their passion and desires for government. Pastor Appling provided information
regarding properties in the City of Dover that were vacant or in disrepair, as well as a binder
containing a brochure on Port Hope Delaware, Inc. and a petition signed by those in support of their
efforts for the homeless (as on file in the Office of the City Clerk). He indicated that he had a list of
properties that the City owns, noting his belief that those properties are owned by the community,
not the people who are elected. Pastor Appling believed that the City could house the homeless in
some of these buildings, including the old Dover Public Library. He noted that the petition contained
over 5,000 signatures supporting what they were doing here in the City. Pastor Appling felt that
most of Council’s constituents want the homeless off the streets before winter and, by coming
peacefully to the meetings, they were exercising the rights that many people have given their lives
to protect. He compared this to the founding of our country and the Civil Rights movement, saying
that they were very loving and passionate about what they were doing, and they would not leave
people on the streets this winter without a voice. Pastor Appling stated that every day they will camp
out somewhere in the City, and they will be at the next couple of City Council meetings and Kent
County meetings as well. He asked for those present who agreed with his comments to respond by
saying “aye,” and many of those present did so.
Mr. Clay Hammond, 505 Troon Road, addressed Council regarding the need for an honest and open
examination of the issues of race, diversity and inclusion, due to what the black community felt were
inexplicable actions by Council over the last several months. He stated that there is great diversity
in Dover’s population, with the white community comprising 43% and the black community making
up 40%. Mr. Hammond felt that the black community was outraged because when the new
Economic Development Committee was formed, there were no people of color placed on it. He
felt that this was not just an oversight but intentional non-representation. Mr. Hammond
indicated that what made this situation worse was the recent vote by Council to not approve
Councilman Anderson’s motion to add two (2) seats to the Committee. He believed this to be
representative of the “good old boy network” that had ruled this community for far too long.
Mr. Hammond suggested that there were some great resources, like the Delaware State University
Center for Economic Development, and felt that very few on the Committee had economic
development experience. Mr. Hammond pointed out that City Council approved an economic
inclusion study last year. He was unsure how many members read the report, but noted that
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Dr. Michael Casson had made a presentation. Mr. Hammond felt that there was systemic exclusion,
citing the work of the Downtown Dover Partnership whose focus area includes the Queen Street,
Kirkwood Street, and New Street corridor, and that the study gave a unique opportunity to discuss
this. He wanted Council to explain why people of color were not named to the Committee when it
was formed and why Councilman Anderson’s motion was defeated. Mr. Hammond also asked how
the Committee would address the issue of diversity, as well as the issue of the economic inclusion
report. He believed that, in order to be fair, there should be a quota that is proportional to the
population.
Ms. Chantell Scott, 214 Thornton Street, informed members that she had been a City resident for
almost 10 years. She stated that she had watched the last City Council meeting and had seen a lot
of things that went viral on social media, including a survey that went out to a lot of citizens.
Ms. Scott explained that the survey was inquiring about the public knowledge of what happens at
Council meetings and if they knew that people had certain powers; for example, if the public knew
that the Mayor had the ability to veto things that were approved by Council seven (7) days after they
were voted in. Her belief was that many people had answered that they did not. Ms. Scott indicated
that the survey asked if people felt as though the Mayor blatantly disrespected Councilman Sudler
at the previous meeting, and the general consensus of the people surveyed was that the Mayor should
step down. Ms. Scott felt that it was a blatant conflict of interest for a subcommittee to constitute
all of City Council. She believed that the taxpayers’ money was being spent wherever members
wanted, and that they were not spending it wisely. Ms. Scott expressed her disagreement regarding
the approval of a contract which was over $90,000 more than another bid because their paperwork
was in. She indicated that the community was starting to notice and would be getting more involved,
due to social media. Ms. Scott referred to a discussion regarding a City park and the need to rebuild
and expand the recreation options for children between the ages of 12 and 16. She noted that she
is a foster parent for high-risk teens and there is nothing for them to do outside of the home in the
City.
Mr. Steven Hall, 684 Forest Street, stated that he was born and raised in Sussex County, Delaware.
He explained that he felt compelled to speak because he taught seventh, eighth and ninth graders
how to read, write, and spell for eight years. Mr. Hall informed members that he earned a bachelor’s
degree in elementary education, and once had two (2) cars and a nice home, but now had none of
those. He stated that he wanted to show appreciation for the Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing
and all that Pastor Appling and Victory Church were doing for the homeless. Mr. Hall reiterated that
they were just voicing their opinion and that this situation could happen to anyone. He informed
members of all the meetings that Pastor Appling and he had attended to try to bring light to this issue
in Sussex County and in Dover. Mr. Hall requested consideration for their proposal and asked for
the City to help give people a home.
Mr. Mike Reyes, Smyrna, stated that he was representing a pastors’ association with more than 25
members in Wilmington and Chester and was in support of what Victory Church and its ministers
were doing because they had applied for the same thing in their areas. He noted that the difference
between the two (2) regions was that the Wilmington and Chester governments welcomed what
Victory Church was doing, but there were not enough churches getting involved in feeding and
helping the homeless. Mr. Reyes emphasized that his city would love for a church to be as involved
and willing to do the work repairing houses as Victory Church had been. He felt that this would
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benefit not only the church and the homeless, but also the City of Dover and those that represent the
City.
Ms. Marisa Costello, Smyrna, Delaware offered her support to Victory Church and the tiny houses;
however, she explained that she had come to the meeting for a totally different topic. She displayed
a photograph of her 14-year-old daughter and informed members that her daughter was currently
missing in the City of Wilmington, and she was trying to get help through the New Castle County
Police Department. Ms. Costello stated that on June 21st, her daughter was a victim of rape in Dover.
She explained that she had been trying to contact the detective assigned to the case, and her phone
calls had not been returned. Ms. Costello stated that detectives told her that they were following
their protocol and they refused to put it on the news because her daughter had not been abducted.
She explained that her daughter was in a group home called The Terry Shelter, which is an unsecured
facility, when four (4) girls ran away in one (1) week. Ms. Costello expressed frustration that the
shelter was unable to do anything to help the parents of the girls who ran away, and agreed with
Ms. Chantell Scott that there was nothing for kids to do around here. Ms. Costello stated that she
has three (3) daughters, and she has put aside her own safety to find her daughter. She asked if
anyone could tell her how to get help. Mayor Christiansen offered to speak with Ms. Costello in the
hall.
Councilman Neil welcomed the people who came to speak about the issue of homelessness and
assured them that City Council was working on all areas of the issue. He noted that there are certain
rules that they have to follow, and that the City cannot just take someone’s property and give it to
the homeless. Mr. Neil advised that another way to make a difference is to talk to the people who
are going to vote so they can elect the people who will be able to do something about it. He
acknowledged that this is not just a problem in the City of Dover, but is a universal problem in the
State and the country, and he welcomed them back.
Ms. Janetta Guinn, 749 Slaughter Street, informed members that three (3) years ago, she would have
been homeless if it were not for her landlord, Mr. Joe Burden, who allowed her extra time to pay
him. She expressed frustration that Mr. Burden tries to fix up houses to get the homeless off the
street but the City keeps tearing them down because they are not up to code.
The invocation was given by Reverend Rita Paige, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Council President Slavin stated that he wanted to begin with an apology to the people of Dover,
stating that three (3) weeks ago they witnessed a meeting which was clearly unacceptable on a
number of levels. He advised that he had spoken to many of his colleagues, and they all agreed that
they can, and will, do a better job. Mr. Slavin noted that being part of a democracy is a blessing and
a privilege, and it requires us to accept that, while we are entitled to our differences, we are required
to disagree peacefully and respectfully. He urged everyone to remind themselves of the great
blessing called democracy and always put the interests of the City first.
Mr. Sudler stated that before becoming a councilman, he was a strong community leader. He
indicated that he would continue to be a strong councilman but asked his colleagues to accept his
sincere apology for raising his voice in the Council Chambers.
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Mayor Christiansen apologized to members of Council and the citizens of Dover and offered
apologies for compromising the sanctity of the august body of the chamber that was reserved for the
conduct of the people’s business. While he felt justified in doing so, he noted that the Council
Chambers had been reserved, and should always be reserved, for the legislative and appropriative
functions of City Council. Mayor Christiansen assured everyone that he had always respected this
responsibility and would always continue to do so. He reminded those present that he had served
in Council Chambers as a member of Council and as Council President, and stated that the people’s
business must be conducted in an atmosphere of order and decorum. Mayor Christiansen also
reminded the public that, throughout his career of service to the community, he had worked tirelessly
on behalf of all of the citizens and would continue to do so. He felt that the City had come very far,
although there was always room for improvement, and he requested everyone to not to lose sight of
the strides that had been made. Mayor Christiansen stated that his service to the residents of the City
would always be in the best interest of the entire City that everyone loves.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Hutchison moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Hosfelt and unanimously
carried.
Mr. Lewis requested that items #5-B-3 - Application for Rural Economic Development Grant
Through U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and #8 - 2016/17 Staff Appointment - City
Council - Fire Marshal - Jason A. Osika, be removed from the Consent Agenda.
Mr. Sudler requested that item #6-B-3 - Economic Development Committee Transition Discussion -
Adopt a Goal/Vision, be removed from the Consent Agenda.
Mr. Lewis moved for approval of the Consent Agenda, as amended, seconded by
Mr. Anderson and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF AUGUST 22, 2016
The Minutes of the Special Council Meeting of August 22, 2016 were unanimously approved
by motion of Mr. Lewis, seconded by Mr. Anderson and bore the written approval of
Mayor Christiansen.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF AUGUST 22, 2016
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of August 22, 2016 were unanimously approved
by motion of Mr. Lewis, seconded by Mr. Anderson and bore the written approval of
Mayor Christiansen.
PUBLIC HEARING/FINAL READING - PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2016-18
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider approval of proposed zoning
text amendments to Appendix B - Zoning, Article 3 - District Regulations, Section 27 - Corridor
Overlay Zone 1 (COZ-1), Subsection 27.66 - Building Height.
Mr. Hare moved that the Final Reading of Proposed Ordinance #2016-18 be acknowledged by
title only, seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried. (The First Reading of the ordinance
was accomplished during the Council Meeting of July 25, 2016.)
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Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, advised members
that the text amendments would revise the building height limitation, which is a development
guideline, for a defined area on properties within the Corridor Overlay Zone (COZ-1). She reviewed
a map depicting the COZ-1, explaining that the COZ-1 area extends from the railroad tracks along
Route 8 to Artis Drive, as well as along Saulsbury and McKee Roads. Mrs. Townshend explained
that the proposed amendment would remove language that limits building height to 35 feet or two (2)
stories beyond 100 feet from the roadway. The first 100 feet of lot depth would still be subject to the
35-foot or two-story height limitation, and the area beyond that would be subject to the height
restrictions of the zone. Mrs. Townshend stated that there had been a public hearing before the
Planning Commission on August 15, 2016 regarding the amendment, and one (1) member of the
public spoke in favor of the proposed amendment. Following the public hearing, the Planning
Commission voted unanimously six (6) to zero (0) to recommend in favor of the proposed zoning
text amendment.
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Townshend stated that if the ordinance was adopted, building height
would be limited to two (2) stories within 100 feet of the roadway; however, buildings beyond
100 feet may be built up to six (6) stories, depending on the zoning classification of the individual
parcel.
Mr. Lewis questioned how many buildings in this area the proposal would apply to. Responding,
Mrs. Townshend indicated that the buildings of The Grande project were within the Corridor
Overlay Zone and were four (4) stories in height. Because they were part of a Planned Neighborhood
Design (PND), the bulk standards were adjusted for this project. She noted that The Grande was
getting ready to construct their fourth four-story building at that location.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt, Mrs. Townshend indicated that the area being discussed included
Route 8 from the railroad tracks out to the west end of the City, as well as the entirety of
Saulsbury Road and McKee Road going north.
Mr. Anderson noted that there would be changes in traffic patterns with the construction of the West
Dover Connector and asked if the amendment would be affected by those changes. In response,
Mrs. Townshend stated that it would not necessarily have an effect because the West Dover
Connector would not be called Saulsbury Road and the Corridor Overlay Zone would not expand.
She explained that each new development application received, regardless of size, would be
reviewed by the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) as it relates to additional traffic
on the roadway.
Mr. Lewis asked Mrs. Townshend if the amendment would increase or decrease property values in
the area. Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that this would need to be asked of someone with an
appraisal or assessment background and that she was not qualified in that regard.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt regarding what prompted the amendment, Mrs. Townshend explained that
it had been brought forward by sponsors. She stated that an application went before the Board of
Adjustment for a four-story apartment building in the Corridor Overlay Zone and they requested a
variance. Mrs. Townshend indicated that the application was not for the fourth building at
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The Grande but was for a project located further west on Route 8. She stated that action on the
request was deferred pending the outcome of the proposed amendment.
Mr. Hosfelt asked if the request of one (1) builder had created this proposed ordinance that would
change miles of roadway. Responding, Mrs. Townshend explained that a number of changes were
made to commercial zones a couple of years ago, and one (1) of the tasks identified on the Planning
Office’s list of needed ordinance updates was to reconcile a difference between what zoning allowed
and what the Corridor Overlay Zone allowed. The C-2A zone was previously more restrictive in
terms of height, and a change was made to what was allowed in that zone, but the Corridor Overlay
Zone did not allow this change to be utilized. Staff had known that they needed to review this
matter; however, it came forward due to a specific circumstance.
Mr. Hosfelt stated his understanding that this amendment would allow someone to develop
apartments in excess of two (2) stories on northbound McKee Road across the street from Emerald
Pointe. Mrs. Townshend indicated that the area across from Emerald Pointe is not in the City and
the City’s Comprehensive Plan shows it as industrial. She stated that property would have to be
zoned in a manner consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, although the Comprehensive Plan could
change. Mrs. Townshend advised that the height would be based on the zoning underneath the
overlay, so this would depend on how the property was zoned.
Council President Slavin declared the public hearing open.
Mr. Philip McGinnis, McGinnis Commercial Real Estate Company, stated that he lived and worked
in the City of Dover, and he had brought forth the proposal. He felt that the City of Dover had a
coherent land use development policy, but had a discombobulated land use development strategy due
to height limitations on zoning districts. Mr. McGinnis explained that efforts were being made to
develop a smart growth type of pattern throughout the City. He stated that the overlay zone may or
may not be the best thing for the City, noting that the Chancery Court had denied overlay zones in
other parts of the County. Mr. McGinnis indicated that this overlay zone had been in effect for
25 years, had held back good development strategy, and it was time to eliminate it.
In regard to Mr. Lewis’s question about whether land values would go up or down, Mr. McGinnis
stated that land use values were being stifled by the existing overlay zone, because it is not possible
to build to the full density that the zoning district allows. He explained that this was not a situation
where there would be 2,000 linear feet of two-story, four-story, or six-story buildings. Mr. McGinnis
indicated that this was a situation where there were properties along Route 8 that could not be
developed to their maximum density according to the existing zoning district regulations because
of the overlay zone.
Mr. McGinnis noted that there was a question about whether or not to put a different kind of overlay
zone on McKee Road to limit height; however, he stated that he was not aware of any Central
Commercial Zone (C-2) districts along McKee Road. He advised that the discussion was about an
area between the railroad tracks and the end of the City that involved approximately a half dozen
properties. Mr. McGinnis informed members that the point of relaxing the overlay zone was to
allow the development pattern to get back to the densities permitted in the existing zoning district
regulations.
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In response to Mr. Lewis regarding why this area was being addressed rather than Route 13 or other
areas where there were higher-story buildings, Mr. McGinnis stated that this was the area that had
an overlay zone and where properties were available. He noted that the City was losing property tax
dollars and there were lost profits to the community. Mr. McGinnis reiterated that money was being
lost by stifling development with a height limitation and a 25-year-old overlay zone that was now
obsolete.
Mr. Lewis questioned whether the residents in the surrounding area had been asked what they
thought of the proposed ordinance. Responding, Mrs. Townshend advised that the purpose of the
current public hearing was to hear from residents. She stated that the Council and Planning
Commission public hearings were both advertised, and reiterated that one (1) person spoke during
the Planning Commission public hearing.
Mr. Neil noted that building apartment houses would increase traffic and asked if the roads that
would be affected were DelDOT roads. Responding, Mrs. Townshend indicated that Route 8 is a
DelDOT road, as are Mifflin, Saulsbury, and McKee Roads.
Mr. Sudler questioned how individuals in the surrounding area are notified of such amendments
other than the City website. In response, Mrs. Townshend stated that zoning text amendments are
advertised through a legal ad in the newspaper; however, the City does not mail a notice to
individuals. She explained that for individual development applications, direct notice is mailed to
property owners within 200 feet, an ad is placed in the newspaper, and the subject property is posted
with a yellow sign.
Responding to Mr. Sudler regarding a traffic impact study, Mrs. Townshend explained that if a
project meets certain thresholds set by DelDOT regulations in terms of peak hour trips or total daily
trips, the developer has their engineer do a traffic impact study, which is sent to DelDOT for review
by their engineering staff. The traffic impact study includes a series of recommendations based
on the traffic counts and the expected contribution based on an individual development.
Mrs. Townshend advised that a 2007 or 2008 corridor study of Route 8 identified a number of
potential service roads off Route 8. As development applications come in, the City and DelDOT
work with the developers to reserve either right-of-way or cross-access easements, so that the land
will be there to build a service road, in the event that a road is warranted in the future.
Mr. William Garfinkel, 9 Freedom Drive, Bicentennial Village, stated that the legislation before this
body tonight was both dangerous and reckless. He indicated that it was dangerous because it had
the ability to destroy the livability of west Dover and reckless because it had not been properly
vetted. Mr. Garfinkel believed that there was no problem to be fixed. He questioned what the
unintended consequences and compelling state interest were in the amendment, or if there was just
a personal interest. Mr. Garfinkel stated that, during the Board of Adjustment meeting, the Planning
Office was asked by the Board what the purpose of the overlay zone was. Their response was that
the purpose was to make sure that Route 8 did not become Route 13, and Mr. Garfinkel felt that this
said it all. He informed members that he had lived in west Dover for 33 years and found it to be
beautiful, livable, and a place where commercial and residential areas co-exist in harmony because
of the overlay zone. Mr. Garfinkel stated that canyons of six-story building were not needed in west
Dover and asked members to vote no tonight.
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Mr. Derek Headley, 3 Gemstone Boulevard, Emerald Pointe stated that this amendment would have
a major impact on his community. He advised that he had been at this location for only three (3)
years but had moved to west Dover because of the beauty of the community. Mr. Headley stated that
he moved from New York because he wanted the peace and quiet that he currently had. He believed
that the developer did not live anywhere in close proximity and the amendment would have no effect
on him. Mr. Headley felt that this was about dollars and cents from the developer’s standpoint. He
noted that the first building would include only 12 units, but it was unknown how many there would
be after getting rid of the ordinance that was 25 years old and out of date. Mr. Headley begged
Council members to hear the voice of the community, stating that this area was a beautiful place and
it was not desired to spoil it.
Mr. Thomas J. Dix, 664 Independence Boulevard, Bicentennial Village, advised that he lives a little
over a mile away from where this building was proposed on Forrest Avenue. He indicated that he
had attended a meeting last week and knew what type of planning DelDOT was doing for Forrest
Avenue. Mr. Dix read the following statement into the record:
Dear Mayor, President of the Council, and Dover Council members:
There is nothing in the 20-year plan for Forrest Avenue, except the bicycle path on
the south side of Forrest. Nothing. Forrest Avenue is the only exit out of Dover to
the west. It is bracketed by Mifflin Road, a small, little, tree-lined road, with the
world famous Mifflin traffic circle on it; Kenton Road, which feeds into westbound
Forrest Avenue about 200 feet west of this intersection and westbound Forrest
narrows from a two-lane to a one-lane road in each direction; and Saulsbury Road
southbound, which will empty into the Connector and North Avenue. Forrest
eastbound offers a left turn onto the northbound Kenton Road that allows only a few
cars to turn left at each traffic light cycle, which causes backups on Forrest Avenue.
Any groans?
I think the proposed amendment is nothing more than a lightly-veiled real estate
scheme to inflate the property values of previously existing residential and small
commercial properties. These properties are not supported by the roads needed to
accommodate a large increase in commerce. West Dover has industrial, residential,
and small commercial properties well planned for a long time. There was no
planning for commercial buildings up to 60 feet in height.
Let’s see a long-range plan before we see quick zoning changes. Change the plan
first. Zoning changes should follow the approved plan, not the other way around.
Thank you, ladies and gentlemen.
Mr. David Pokrajac, 6 Tanzanite Court, advised that he had been living in Dover for a little more
than 14 years and was very happy that Council was taking care of the City, but he wanted to share
his feeling regarding priorities. He stated that recently there was a fatal accident on McKee Road
near the overpass and there was an undivided highway with heavy traffic. A little farther south, there
was his development, Emerald Pointe, with no traffic light or plans for a traffic light. Mr. Pokrajac
questioned if there would be another fatal accident before starting to plan traffic lights. He felt
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traffic lights should be installed before developing commercial buildings in the area. Mr. Pokrajac
asked what the strategic interest of the City was. He questioned what would bring more value to the
City and better support its functions, developing apartment buildings for the lower middle class or
new housing for the upper middle class. Mr. Pokrajac noted that the intersection farther south at
McKee/Scarborough and College Road was dangerous, stating that his daughter was involved in an
accident there in May. He stated that, luckily, it was not a fatal accident; however, his daughter
suffered for more than a month because of traffic at that intersection, without the commercial
buildings and changing of the zoning that was being discussed. Mr. Pokrajac advised that he had
not planned to talk about this, noting that he was in attendance in regard to the public hearing for
Proposed Resolution No. 2016-10 Approving the Abandonment of the Topaz Circle Stub Street;
however, as a concerned parent and citizen, he asked members not to make this change. If they
choose to make a change, he suggested doing it only for Route 8.
Mr. EShed Alston stated that he had resided in Dover for 42 years, noting that anyone who had lived
here had seen the changes, including trees being cut down and development. He questioned why
development did not take place in areas that are already developed as opposed to going into the
community and changing its profile. Mr. Alston advised that, although he did not live in the area
being discussed, he felt he must interject his position as a person who had lived here for over 40
years. He stated that he had come to this area because of the way it was and was not comfortable
with the way it was becoming, noting that the City was changing, but the changes that were occurring
were not necessarily good changes. Mr. Alston asked how those who are living in the community
felt about changing an established community for the sake of development and what this would do
to their quality of life. He believed it was problematic to give more consideration to developers than
to the people who had lived here for 40 years.
There being no one else present wishing to speak during the public hearing, Council President Slavin
declared the hearing closed.
Mr. Lewis expressed concerns with the Proposed Ordinance, stating that, if passed, it would set a
precedent where buildings like this would pop up in many neighborhoods. In addition, he stated that
he had concerns about traffic. Mr. Lewis noted that members had heard comments from residents
of the community who do not want this change. He felt it was the duty of Council to listen to them
since they are who members represent. Mr. Lewis stated that he could not support the Proposed
Ordinance.
Mr. Hosfelt agreed with Mr. Lewis and stated that he would also vote against the Proposed
Ordinance.
Mr. Neil felt that there was nothing urgent in terms of passing this measure. He acknowledged that
things would change in the future but saw no urgency in making the change at this time. Mr. Neil
stated that there would be nothing wrong in bringing this back at a future time when members feel
that the City is ready for it.
Mr. Sudler stated that he would also vote against the Proposed Ordinance; however, he indicated that
he would like to see a comprehensive plan for the future. As a resident of State College Road, he
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 11
noted that there is a lot of traffic and thought there was a need to focus more on what to do about
traffic before putting up new buildings in the area.
Mr. Hare stated that he did not disagree with what had been said; however, he noted that he had lived
in the City for a long time and remembered Route 8 as a two-lane road, when William Henry Middle
School was on the outskirts of town. He stated that if today’s mentality was applied back then, those
who live out there would not have their nice houses and after passing William Henry Middle School,
the next thing one would come to would be what was known as Country Club Apartments. Mr. Hare
felt that there was some merit to the argument but that there may need to be more traffic studies. He
suggested tabling the matter for further review.
Mr. Hare moved to table the Proposed Ordinance for further review and to obtain traffic studies and
more information, seconded by Mr. Hutchison.
Mr. Lewis stated that he would vote against tabling this matter and believed members should vote
tonight.
The motion to table Proposed Ordinance #2016-18 for further review and to obtain traffic
studies and more information was carried by a roll call vote of six (6) yes (Mr. Anderson,
Mr. Sudler, Mr. Cole, Mr. Hare, Mr. Hutchison, and Mr. Slavin) and three (3) no (Mr. Neil,
Mr. Lewis, and Mr. Hosfelt).
After consulting City Solicitor Rodriguez, Mr. Slavin informed members that Mr. Rodriguez had
confirmed that a member is procedurally allowed to bring an item back for consideration if they have
voted in favor of it; therefore, Mr. Slavin explained, he voted yes for the purposes of ensuring that
this item is brought back.
PUBLIC HEARING - PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 2016-10 APPROVING THE
ABANDONMENT OF THE TOPAZ CIRCLE STUB STREET
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider the abandonment of the
Topaz Circle Stub Street.
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, advised members
that Topaz Circle stub street is an improved stub street in the Emerald Pointe development that
connects to undeveloped land to the south between Emerald Pointe and College Road. She stated that
the undeveloped property was approved for The Arbors, a senior apartment building development,
by the Planning Commission, at their March meeting. Mrs. Townshend explained that a number of
residents had concerns about the interconnection between Emerald Pointe and The Arbors and,
during their Regular Meeting of June 27, 2016, City Council waived the normal process for street
abandonment and initiated a request to abandon the Topaz Circle stub street located in the Emerald
Pointe subdivision. She stated that this matter was referred to the Planning Commission for a public
hearing and, following their review, the Planning Commission recommended not abandoning the
stub street, primarily due to the comments of the Development Advisory Committee (DAC).
Mrs. Townshend advised that all of the development review agencies recommended against the
abandonment. She noted that the Planning Commission’s recommendation was also based on the
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 12
subdivision ordinance requirement for interconnection. Mrs. Townshend advised that this matter
was now set for a public hearing before Council.
Mrs. Townshend indicated that Topaz Circle stub street was improved in asphalt and there were
sidewalks along it. She stated that there would be a question of what would happen to that paved
area if the stub street were abandoned, and she felt that it might benefit Council to know this in
determining whether to abandon it. Mrs. Townshend asked if the City would remove the asphalt or
if this would be the responsibility of the property owners who gain the property.
Mr. Hosfelt expressed his opinion that the previous discussion this evening, regarding Proposed
Ordinance #2016-18, demonstrated reason enough to support this abandonment. He felt that
consideration was being given to creating more traffic, housing, and retail shops, which would push
people through the neighborhoods to take shortcuts around intersections so that they do not have to
sit through traffic lights. Mr. Hosfelt indicated that he would be willing to use his discretionary
funds that were allotted to Council members during the FY 17 budget review process to help with
this site improvement, if needed. Mr. Hosfelt believed that this was a no-win situation, stating that
he lives near a cut-through in a neighborhood and he did not want to see this happen to the residents
of Emerald Pointe. He stated that those who travel on College Road sit through several cycles of
traffic lights due to traffic. Mr. Hosfelt believed that if members allowed the cut-through to happen,
Police Chief Bernat would have to field complaints about speed surveys and studies and why there
were not enough motorcycle officers to issue tickets in the neighborhood. He indicated that he
would support the abandonment of the Topaz Circle stub street.
Mr. Slavin thanked Mr. Hosfelt for being a leader on this issue from the outset. He recalled that
there had been a major issue on East Loockerman Street when the new normal became that it was
a cut-through, rather than a residential street. Mr. Slavin stated that the City had to fight for that
street to not be used as a cut-through and he did not want to see that happen again.
Mr. Sudler asked if the asphalt on the stub street was recycled and unbonded gravel. Responding,
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, stated that there was concrete curb and new paving that was
installed in the last couple of years. He explained that if Council elected to abandon this stub street,
they would have to authorize the City to spend between $10,000 and $20,000 to remove
approximately 120 feet of street and install upright curbing and sidewalk where the street is
abandoned. He believed that this would not be accomplished if it is left to the potential property
owners because of the expense. Mr. Koenig stated that this was a paved street, including the top
coat; however, it had not been dedicated.
Mr. Sudler indicated that he would have supported the stub street as a highly regulated emergency
route; however, he did not think that this was going to be doable. He stated that he would not be
supporting the staff recommendation and would support Mr. Hosfelt.
Mr. Neil stated that he was concerned about safety; however, he understood why the people living
there did not want it and, as a result, he would vote to close off the street. He noted that this was
with the caveat that in the future, those who buy homes in that area would now be at more risk
because the Fire Department would not be able to get to them as quickly as they could if the
connection was there.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 13
Responding to Mr. Anderson regarding the Planning Commission’s reasoning for their decision,
Mrs. Townshend explained that this matter dated back to 2002, when Emerald Pointe was first
approved with two (2) stub streets as part of the original plan. The benefit of interconnection was
something that the Planning Commission had championed for a number of years and was ultimately
put into the subdivision regulations in 2004. Additionally, Mrs. Townshend advised that, DelDOT
is a member of the City’s DAC and DelDOT’s subdivision regulations require interconnections, and
if these streets were in the County, they would be required. Mrs. Townshend informed members that
DelDOT’s recommendation was not to abandon the stub street because it would affect the traffic
patterns and put some of the shorter trips onto College or McKee Roads, where they otherwise might
be able to flow from one development to another. The Planning Commission’s recommendation was
based on adopted procedures and codes and the recommendations of the Fire Marshal’s Office,
Public Works Department, and Planning Office not to abandon the stub street.
Council President Slavin declared the public hearing open.
Ms. Dorothea Hopkins, Emerald Pointe, stated that she was a new homeowner. She explained that
the neighbors work hard to keep their places beautiful, cut their grass, and pick up garbage.
Ms. Hopkins indicated that older people are out as late as 12:00 midnight walking and exercising,
and little children run, play, and have a good time in the park. She feared that if all this traffic came
through Emerald Pointe, there would be some big issues there. Ms. Hopkins stated that people walk
pets through the park and the complex and neighbors come together to have sales, etc. She advised
that she is retired and has to sit for a long time when exiting her neighborhood, and she believed this
would cause impatience for those who have to be at work at a certain time. Ms. Hopkins stated that
she did not think it would be a good idea to have traffic come through the street, noting that it was
currently necessary to move over to the side to allow cars to pass. She reiterated that she loved her
development and home. Ms. Hopkins stated that if the new development is built it will be directly
behind her home and she would have to install a fence, noting that she really does not want to see
all of the traffic going through her neighborhood.
Mr. Randall Christian, 207 Topaz Circle, agreed with the comments made by Mr. Hosfelt. He felt
that it was a bad idea to allow this traffic without something being done prior to the project to allow
traffic to flow at the two (2) intersections mentioned. Mr. Christian stated that two (2) kids had lived
in that neighborhood since approximately 2006 or 2007. He advised that he lives around the corner
from Bicentennial Village, which he felt had been destroyed by the same Planning Commission rules
or guidelines. Mr. Christian stated that a traffic study had been done a few years ago and he could
not imagine the number of cars that go through that neighborhood every day. He felt that kids cannot
walk the streets or walk their dogs safely because people are speeding through there at 40 miles per
hour trying to beat the traffic light. Mr. Christian believed that a connection would be unfair for the
homeowners who purchased property in Emerald Point, noting that when he purchased his property
the saleswoman who worked for the builder did not mention anything about the possibility of a cut-
through road, or the adjacent property being sold to a commercially zoned development that would
allow other traffic to cut through from College Road back to the highway. Mr. Christian thought this
was a terrible idea and begged members to listen to the other residents and abandon the stub street.
Mr. David Pokrajac, 6 Tanzanite Court, stated that he supported the abandonment, noting that he had
spoken during the Safety Advisory and Transportation/Council Committee of the Whole Meeting
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 14
of April 26, 2016 regarding this matter. In regard to fire truck access, Mr. Pokrajac stated that he
lives in Tanzanite Court next to Topaz Circle and tries to obey speed limits as much as he can. He
indicated that he is not in a particular rush when going to work in the morning as he is not an hourly
employee and it takes less than two (2) minutes to reach the exit of Emerald Pointe from his home.
Mr. Pokrajac stated that fire trucks do not need to obey stop signs or speed limits and could probably
reach the farthest point in Emerald Pointe in two (2) minutes and nearer points in one (1) minute.
He estimated that not opening the stub street would add one (1) minute to the response time of a fire
truck, stating that he did not know if this would dramatically change the survival time since he was
not a fire expert. He suggested the possibility of opening another emergency entrance to Emerald
Pointe from McKee Road, which would decrease the probability of using it as a cut-through and
prevent using the proposed stub street for Emerald Pointe. As a resident of Emerald Pointe who
planned to live there for a while and did not plan on being run over by a car, he supported not
building the stub street as originally proposed.
Mr. David Gale, 342 Topaz Circle, explained that he lives approximately two (2) houses from the
stub street. He advised that he had planned to purchase one (1) of the corner lots adjacent to the stub
street; however, because the grass was so high in that area, he inquired what was going to be placed
there. Mr. Gals stated that he was told that the development had no clue what was going to go there
and, for that reason, Mr. Gale selected a different lot. He advised that he had lived in Emerald Pointe
for four (4) years and could count on one (1) hand the number of times that emergency vehicles had
been through. Mr. Gale stated that he had lived in Baltimore City and was used to traffic and knew
its dangers, and his desire to eliminate a lot of the hassles of urban life was a major influence on his
decision to move to Emerald Pointe. He felt it would be a bad idea to open this stub street to traffic,
likening this to running a garden hose through a straw. Mr. Gale indicated that he goes to work at
7:30 a.m. and it sometimes takes eight (8) minutes and sometimes (3) minutes, noting that there is
a lot of traffic going down to the industry. He stated that it was difficult to get out of the
development and was against having more traffic going in, noting that the schoolchildren now wait
inside the development rather than on Route 15 because there was too much traffic. Mr. Gale felt
that putting more traffic there would create more of an issue. He suggested constructing a horseshoe
to make it possible to go in and come back out the other side, noting that there was now one (1) way
in and out.
Mr. Carl Davis, 7 Gemstone Boulevard, advised members that he lives at the corner and had lived
there for three (3) years. He stated that he had moved to Emerald Pointe because it was nice and
quiet, noting that he is retired. Mr. Davis explained that he will not leave the development after
4:00 p.m. because the traffic is so heavy that sometimes it takes him eight (8) minutes to get out and
he tries to get back in before the traffic becomes too heavy. He stated that once a driver pull ups on
the corner, if another car pulls up on the inside, the driver cannot move because they cannot see the
cars on the right side. Mr. Davis indicated that it is necessary to sit for an additional period of time
to wait for the car that pulled up on the right to pass. He felt that the situation was difficult and that
the stub street would make things much worse. Mr. Davis advised that he came from Philadelphia,
where they overbuilt everything and never took into account what the problems would be. He felt
that bringing a route through the development would back traffic up two (2) blocks trying to come
out and noted that traffic is heavy on College Road. He reiterated that he was completely against the
stub street and asked members to vote against it.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 15
Mr. Van Robinson, 410 Topaz Circle, stated that he had lived in the area since May 2009 and had
been a resident of Topaz Circle for almost six (6) years, having been in his house since December
2010. He explained that they bought the house because he liked the property, which had the second
largest back yard after 411 Topaz Circle. Mr. Robinson advised that when he was getting ready to
purchase his home, the construction manager stated that there would be only one (1) way in and out.
He indicated that he would like to see the stub street returned to grass and split between the two (2)
adjacent properties, and he believed that the City could accomplish this. Mr. Robinson stated that
he sometimes has to wait eight (8) minutes to exit and would like to see the exit widened perhaps
another 10 feet.
Mr. Derek Headley, 3 Gemstone Boulevard, stated that he resides at the house on the corner, where
the traffic that everyone had referenced was located. He noted that he can watch how long it takes
people to get in and out of the development. Mr. Headley advised that he is not a resident of Topaz
Circle but can understand his neighbors’ frustration and was against the connection. Referring to
Mr. Hare’s comment that if it was not for things progressing, there would be nothing in that area,
Mr. Headley felt that everyone could appreciate that and knew that there would be development;
however, members needed to consider what the residents of the community were telling them. He
stated that they were saying that a connection would be detrimental to their quality of life and urged
members to listen. Mr. Headley advised that he was from New York and felt that Dover was heaven
as far as property taxes; however, he stated that he had researched and found that property taxes in
Emerald Pointe were some of the highest in Dover. He indicated that Emerald Pointe seemed to be
a target, stating that there was a commercial development going across the street from where he lives
and an interceptor trying to cut through an area of the development. Mr. Headley noted that Emerald
Pointe was one (1) of the most peaceful and cohesive neighborhoods that he knew of and asked
Council to give them a break.
Mr. Slavin believed that the prevailing interpretation was that the City was going to put a street in;
however, he explained that this matter was being considered to prevent the stub street from
continuing. He stated that he did not want those present to think that Council was bringing forward
the idea of putting this street in but was trying to correct it.
Ms. Jodie Hailey advised that she was part of a homeowners group that takes care of Emerald Pointe,
and she does everything for her community. She stated that they were asking that there would be
no street coming through the development.
There being no one else present wishing to speak, Council President Slavin declared the public
hearing closed.
By motion of Mr. Hosfelt, seconded by Mr. Hare, Council, by a unanimous roll call vote,
adopted Resolution No. 2016-10, as follows:
A RESOLUTION VACATING AND ABANDONING A CERTAIN IMPROVED STUB
STREET SITUATED IN THE CITY OF DOVER.
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN
COUNCIL MET:
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 16
Section 1. The Council of the City of Dover hereby vacates and abandons Topaz Circle stub street,
as specified below:
Adjacent to 402 Topaz Circle (ED-05-067.01-01-24.00)
Being a portion of that certain piece or parcel of land situated in the City of Dover,
Kent County, State of Delaware, being an improved public dead end portion of Topaz
Circle lying to the southeast of the intersection of Topaz Circle and Aquamarine
Court and to the northwest of lands now or late of Richard B. McKee, said portion
of Topaz Circle beginning at a point in line of said McKee lands and the southern
property corner of Parcel No. ED-05-067.01-01-24.00; thence running South 50
degrees 40 minutes 20 seconds West 30.03 feet along the southerly line to the center
point of Topaz Circle; thence running North 36 degrees 48 minutes 41 seconds
West 111.46 feet parallel to the westerly property line of Parcel No.
ED-05-067.01-01-24.00 to a point; thence running North 53 degrees 11 minutes 19
seconds East 55.00 feet to a point of curvature in the southerly line of Topaz Circle,
said point being the northerly end of a 25 foot radius junction curve joining the
southerly and easterly lines of Topaz Circle; thence running along said junction curve
by the arc of a circle curving to the left, with a radius of 25.00 feet, a distance of
39.27 feet to a point of tangency in the easterly line of Topaz Circle; thence running
South 36 degrees 48 minutes East 85.15 feet to a point in the line of said McKee
lands and the southern property corner of Parcel No. ED-05-067.01-01-24.00, being
the point and place of beginning and containing 0.08 acres (3,460.14 square feet) of
land be the same more or less.
Adjacent to 2 Aquamarine Court (ED-05-067.01-01-25.00)
Being a portion of that certain piece or parcel of land situated in the City of Dover,
Kent County, State of Delaware, being an improved public dead end portion of Topaz
Circle lying to the southeast of the intersection of Topaz Circle and Aquamarine
Court and to the northwest of lands now or late of Richard B. McKee, said portion
of Topaz Circle beginning at a point in line of said McKee lands and the southeastern
property corner of Parcel No. ED-05-067.01-01-25.00; thence running North 50
degrees 40 minutes 20 seconds East 30.03 feet along the southerly line to the center
point of Topaz Circle; thence running North 36 degrees 48 minutes 41 seconds
West 111.46 feet parallel to the easterly property line of Parcel No.
ED-05-067.01-01-25.00 to a point; thence running South 53 degrees 11 minutes 19
seconds West 55.00 feet to a point of curvature in the southerly line of Aquamarine
Court, said point being the northerly end of a 25 foot radius junction curve joining
the southerly line of Aquamarine Court and the westerly line of Topaz Circle; thence
running along said junction curve by the arc of a circle curving to the right, with a
radius of 25.00 feet, a distance of 39.27 feet to a point of tangency in the westerly
line of Topaz Circle; thence running South 36 degrees 48 minutes East 87.78 feet to
a point in the line of said McKee lands and the southeastern property corner of Parcel
No. ED-05-067.01-01-25.00, being the point and place of beginning and containing
0.08 acres (3,513.42 square feet) of land be the same more or less.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 17
Section 2. Since no person has been deprived of property by the vacating and abandoning of the
aforesaid stub street, no compensation is awarded.
Section 3. The streets and infrastructure of the above described parcels of land have not been
accepted by the City of Dover. The above described parcels of land shall be considered public utility
easements, reserving the rights of the City of Dover, their agents or assigns to free access for ingress
and egress to these premises and every part thereof at all times for the purpose of installing,
maintaining and operating its existing public utilities. All costs of conveyance shall be borne by the
property owners.
Section 4. This resolution shall be effective upon the filing of a revised plot plan of the aforesaid
stub street.
ADOPTED: SEPTEMBER 12, 2016
90-DAY PROGRESS REPORT - VIOLATION OF THE DANGEROUS BUILDING
ORDINANCE - PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1032-1058 SOUTH DUPONT HIGHWAY,
OWNED BY BMDR LLC
During the Regular City Council Meeting of November 9, 2015, members considered a Violation
of the Dangerous Building Ordinance at 1032-1058 South DuPont Highway, owned by BMDR LLC.
At that time, Council declared the structure located at 1032-1058 South DuPont Highway a
dangerous building; ordered that the property be repaired or demolished by July 1, 2016 by the owner
or equity owner at their own risk; ordered the Building Inspector to cause the demolition of the
structure if not completed by the owner within 10 days of the date established by City Council;
ordered the City Manager with the assistance of the City Solicitor to cause the cost of demolition to
be charged against the land on which the building exists as a municipal lien or cause such cost to be
added to the tax duplicate as an assessment, or to be levied as a special tax, or to be recovered in a
suit at law against the owner; and that progress reports be provided at the Council Meetings
scheduled for January 11, 2016, March 14, 2016, and June 13, 2016. Progress reports were accepted
by members during the Regular Council Meetings of January 11, 2016 and March 14, 2016. During
the Regular Council Meeting of June 13, 2016 members opted to return the item to full Council in
90 days for a progress report.
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, stated that
progress regarding the violation of the dangerous building ordinance for property at 1032-1058 South
DuPont Highway was moving more slowly than expected. She indicated that she had talked to
Lighthouse Construction both last week and on September 12, 2016, and they had awarded a bid for
the interior demolition that must occur before they can start reconstruction. Mrs. Townshend stated
that the site remained secure and no additional complaints had been received by her office. Based
on what she had been told, Mrs. Townshend indicated that interior demolition should occur in the
next couple of weeks.
Mr. Slavin noted that the motion to declare the structure a dangerous building and order that it be
repaired or demolished by July 1, 2016 had been carried by a roll call vote of five (5) yes
(Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sudler, Mr. Hare, Mr. Hutchison, and himself), three (3) no (Mr. Neil, Mr. Cole,
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 18
and Mr. Hosfelt), and one (1) absent (Mr. Lewis), and that members now found themselves three (3)
months beyond that date.
Mr. Hosfelt stated that the City had held Dr. Joe Burden, Jr. responsible for his properties, and
Mr. Hosfelt would expect the same for this property owner since he did not see any difference. He
noted that it was well past the date that had been set for the property at 1032-1058 South DuPont
Highway and wondered why another extension was being discussed. Mr. Hosfelt indicated that he
would not extend further for Dr. Burden and did not intend to do so for this group.
Mr. Sudler concurred with Mr. Hosfelt, stating his concern about doing something for one party but
not for another. He felt that approving an extension would set the City up for a lawsuit because it
would show that Council was being unfair. Mr. Sudler did not believe that the City conducted
business in this way and did not want there to be a feeling that Council was picking and choosing
to whom they would extend time.
Mr. Hare stated that he did not disagree; however, he believed that the action that was taken on the
subject property was perhaps 1/100 of what was done for Dr. Burden. Mr. Hare suggested allowing
the owner to come to the next Council meeting to give Council final dates and then holding the
owner to the dates. He advised that he had gone by the property and it did not look any different than
it did in January. Mr. Hare believed that this matter should be handled as it was with Dr. Burden,
who was asked to provide final dates and was held to them.
Mr. Neil questioned what penalties, financial or otherwise, could be levied. He felt that the owner
would continue to push the envelope if there were no penalties. Responding, Mrs. Townshend
advised that the penalties would be the demolition and the associated lien. She did not believe
issuing fines was effective once a property goes to the level of a dangerous building.
Mrs. Townshend indicated that she concurred with moving forward based on the action of Council.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Mrs. Townshend stated that the subject property was a large commercial
building located across from McDonald’s and immediately north of L & D Suzuki, and she believed
that it would be a costly demolition. She advised that no representative from BMDR was present,
noting that they had been present when Council had made the original motion.
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, stated that this demolition would cost substantially more than
$25,000 and if a demolition package is issued, the bids would have to be considered by Council, in
accordance with the City’s Purchasing Policy. He did not believe any additional action was
necessary and that staff could put the bid package out and receive bids. Mr. Koenig advised that if
the owner had not progressed by the date that bids were authorized by City Council, the building
could be demolished.
Mr. Slavin appreciated the sentiments of Councilman Hare about bringing someone in for a final
time; however, Mr. Slavin stated that the owner had been given an opportunity for a final time when
they came before Council in November 2015 and Council had established the timeline for reporting
over the last three (3) quarters. He noted that it was now almost a year later. Mr. Slavin did not
believe there was a need to reconvene Council on this issue, since moving forward would be
proceeding with the action already taken. He noted that there would be a small window between
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 19
issuing the bid for the demolition and the demolition itself, should the building owner want to come
forward and offer a way to ameliorate the situation.
Mr. Lewis expressed concerns regarding safety. He advised members that this building was in the
Second District, represented by himself and Mr. Hare, and Mr. Lewis had passed by the building the
other day. He noted that the owner was told to erect a perimeter fence around the building for safety
and that the fence had been pushed down. Mr. Lewis feared that children or vagrants could access
the building.
Mr. Neil moved to confirm the actions taken by Council on November 9, 2015 regarding the
demolition of the property, seconded by Mr. Hosfelt.
Mr. Hare questioned what Council would do if the demolition was put out for bid and two (2) weeks
later the owner provided members with a sense of the time needed for the property. Responding,
Mr. Slavin indicated that Council would deal with that if it occurred.
Mr. Hare felt, as Mr. Sudler had said, that picking and choosing could result in a lawsuit from this
party because of time that was not granted. Responding, Mr. Slavin noted that this party had been
given over a year. Mr. Hare stated his belief that Dr. Burden had been given more than a year, and
Mr. Slavin asked why Mr. Hare was defending a known hazard in his own district.
Mr. Koenig reiterated that staff could issue a demolition bid and bring the bids back before Council.
If the project had funding and could move forward, and if viable building permit applications with
plans were submitted, they would be considered. He explained that once the demolition bids were
approved, the property owner would have to go to court to stop the City from demolishing the
building.
Mr. Sudler agreed with Mr. Hare to a certain extent, and he asked how long Dr. Burden was granted
in regard to 941 Lincoln Street. Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that Dr. Burden was
given 30 days in regard to his property located at 941 Lincoln Street. She reminded members that
in May 2015, there was a building that Council had declared dangerous and given Dr. Burden until
September 26, 2015 to make all of the repairs. Mrs. Townshend advised that, although repairs were
approximately 90% complete, interior work was not finished; therefore, staff had not been able to
issue a Certificate of Occupancy.
Mrs. Townshend expressed her belief that once a certain point is reached, there is a need to move
forward. She felt that bids for the subject property would not be back for four (4) to six (6) weeks,
and at that point things should be final. Mrs. Townshend advised that there were active permits for
the property located at 1032-1058 South DuPont Highway and conveyed to her that they were doing
a lot of interior clean-out. She indicated that there had not been any interior inspections based on
the permits and, as of September 12, 2016, they told her that they had approved bids for interior
demolition.
The motion to confirm the actions taken by Council on November 9, 2015 to declare the
structure located at 1032-1058 South DuPont Highway a dangerous building; order that the
property be repaired or demolished by July 1, 2016 by the owner or equity owner at their own
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risk; order the Building Inspector to cause the demolition of the structure if not completed by
the owner within 10 days of the date established by City Council; order the City Manager with
the assistance of the City Solicitor to cause the cost of demolition to be charged against the land
on which the building exists as a municipal lien or cause such cost to be added to the tax
duplicate as an assessment, or to be levied as a special tax, or to be recovered in a suit at law
against the owner, was carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT - AUGUST 23, 2016
The Council Committee of the Whole Meeting was held on August 23, 2016 at
6:00 p.m., with Council President Slavin presiding. Members of Council present
were Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil (arrived at 6:03 p.m.), Mr. Lewis (arrived at 6:09 p.m.), Mr. Cole,
Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Hare, and Mr. Hutchison. Mr. Anderson was absent.
Mayor Christiansen was also present. Civilian members present for their Committee
meetings were Mr. Keller and Mr. Shelton (Safety Advisory and Transportation) and
Mr. Shevock and Dr. Stewart (Legislative, Finance, and Administration).
SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
The Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee met with Councilman Hosfelt
presiding.
Viability of the ShotSpotter Gunshot Detection and Location Service
During the Council Committee of the Whole/Safety Advisory and Transportation
Committee Meeting of July 26, 2016, members considered the Viability of the
ShotSpotter Gunshot Detection and Location Service and deferred this item for
further investigation.
Deputy Police Chief Marvin Mailey advised members that he wished to address
questions that members had posed during the meeting of July 26, 2016. In regard to
the availability of federal grant funding, he explained that he had spoken with
Ms. Amanda Wood, Funding Specialist, ShotSpotter, Inc., who outlined a number
of funding programs that could cover some or most of the cost of the ShotSpotter
program, which would be approximately $195,000 per year. Deputy Chief Mailey
stated that there were three (3) programs available through the Department of
Housing and Urban Development (HUD), a program through the Department of
Homeland Security’s State Homeland Security Grant Program, and federal grants
through Project Safe Neighborhoods and the Smart Policing Initiative Grant, as well
as a technology grant for innovations in public safety. He indicated that grants are
awarded annually, and Ms. Wood would be willing to help the Department with the
paperwork to obtain them.
Deputy Chief Mailey informed members that he had spoken with Captain James
Sarkos, Atlantic City Police Department, who was the organizer or head of the
ShotSpotter program in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Captain Sarkos stated that they
received grant funding; however, Atlantic City bore a lot of the cost for the program
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in its first year, which was very expensive, and the grant funding kicked in during the
following years.
In response to questions asked by Mr. Hosfelt and Mr. Hutchison during the meeting
of July 26, 2016, Deputy Chief Mailey advised that he had spoken to
Mr. John Martin, IT Systems Administrator, Wilmington Police Department, who
directs this program in Wilmington, in regard to cleared cases pertaining to
ShotSpotter and was informed that Wilmington tracks the raw data but does not
correlate it to crimes solved. The approval of the Wilmington’s chief of police was
needed to obtain the data; however, Deputy Chief Mailey stated that he was unable
to receive approval after reaching out to the chief on several occasions. He informed
members that the raw data from Wilmington would show only activations and would
not correlate to a homicide solved on a particular day, and this was also the case in
Atlantic City and in the Camden County Police Department in Trenton, New Jersey.
Responding to Mr. Neil’s question during the meeting of July 26, 2016, regarding
ShotSpotter technology upgrades, Deputy Chief Mailey indicated that, although he
had described the ShotSpotter as a lease program, it is actually a subscription service
that is paid for annually. He informed members that ShotSpotter, Inc. would provide
new hardware and software as the technology ages so that there would be optimal
results from the system.
In response to Mayor Christiansen’s questions during the meeting of July 26, 2016,
Deputy Chief Mailey stated that ShotSpotter guaranteed full maintenance throughout
the service subscription, including replacement and tech support, and they would
come to the City to provide onsite training. He indicated that Atlantic City had
advised that ShotSpotter was very good about providing service. Deputy Chief
Mailey stated that Atlantic City loved ShotSpotter and was very willing to meet or
hold a conference call with City of Dover representatives to discuss the program. He
advised that Captain Sarkos informed him of an incident when Atlantic City used
ShotSpotter to identify a gunshot that was unreported. The police department
responded and found a subject who had been shot, and Captain Sarkos believed that
this person probably would have expired had they not had the ShotSpotter program
to identify the gunshot location. Deputy Chief Mailey advised that the New York
City Police Department went to Atlantic City to discuss and observe the Atlantic City
ShotSpotter program, and New York City was now using this technology.
Mr. Hosfelt recalled that Wilmington had been having an issue with not receiving
calls for 911 service when shots were fired and had no way to track them. It was
believed that this technology would help them to respond to those areas, and this was
one of the selling points for obtaining ShotSpotter. Mr. Hosfelt noted that the
$195,000 cost was not cheap, and he felt that if there was an ability to connect the use
of ShotSpotter to cleared homicides or shootings, this would be advertised as a
selling point. He questioned if the City of Dover would be better off investing these
funds in more security cameras, noting that the results from existing cameras were
known and could show cleared homicides or shootings. Mr. Hosfelt believed that the
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City of Dover still has community involvement and that residents and constituents
still make those calls. He was not sure that Dover was at the point that Wilmington
was in terms of not receiving calls.
Deputy Chief Mailey stated that ShotSpotter advertises that once their system is put
in, there is a decline in gunshots and gun violence. They pointed to Wilmington as
showing a 42% drop in gunshots after the technology was initially installed. Deputy
Chief Mailey indicated that several agencies had used ShotSpotter in criminal
investigations to point them to evidence that was brought into the courtroom as part
of probable cause in prosecution of criminal cases. He stated that, personally, if he
had the money to spend, he would spend it on equipment, cameras, and officers,
which he felt would better serve the City. Deputy Chief Mailey agreed with
Mr. Hosfelt that the City of Dover is not a place where people do not report gunshots
fired.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison, Deputy Chief Mailey advised that the cost of
ShotSpotter would be $65,000 per square mile, with a total cost of $195,000 to cover
three (3) square miles. He indicated that shots are fired throughout the City, beyond
an area of three (3) square miles, and cited occurrences on White Oak Road, Mayfair,
and Autumn Run Apartments. Deputy Chief Mailey indicated that a three (3) square
mile footprint is not very large.
In response to Mr. Hutchison regarding statistics for the days and times when more
problems are experienced in the City, Deputy Chief Mailey indicated that he did not
have this data but could research it and provide information. He stated that Retired
Captain Robert Scott, Crime Analyst, analyzes raw data and provides peak times for
crime, dates, land locations, and the Department provides enhanced patrols in those
areas. Deputy Chief Mailey advised that State funding allowed for extra duty for
officers, and this had helped in some of the troubled neighborhoods where there is
a lot of violence and drug sales. He indicated that the Police Department is reactive
to real time crime data.
Mr. Hutchison stated that the Police Department should be very proud of its men and
women, who do an outstanding job, as shown in last year’s audit of the Police
Department that contained information on response times and clearance percentages.
He felt that this was a reflection of training, staffing, and community support.
Mr. Slavin expressed appreciation for the effort put into researching the ShotSpotter
service but noted that he had never been in favor of this technology. He thought it
was probably useful in some jurisdictions, but perhaps not the City of Dover due to
its geography and the frequency of problems. Mr. Slavin felt that $195,000 could be
deployed more effectively, noting that this $195,000 had not been budgeted and
would be a mid-year addition to the budget. He believed that adding expenses mid
fiscal year weakens the discipline in the budget and displaces other things that went
through the budget vetting process and were approved, some of which were in the
Police Department budget. Mr. Slavin stated the need to be careful about this and be
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good stewards of public safety, public finances, etc. He indicated that he appreciates
grant funding; however, grant funding typically helps start something and then goes
away, which inflates the budget in outlying years and causes cycles of desperation
with large gaps. Mr. Slavin noted that he was very interested in the use of technology
to help fight crime.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Deputy Chief Mailey advised that he would rate the
necessity for the ShotSpotter in 2017 as a very low priority, rating it as a one (1) or
two (2) on a 10-point scale, with a ten being the highest priority.
Debriefing/Post-Mortem on Firefly Music Festival (Presentations by the
Department of Planning and Inspections and the Dover Police Department)
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development,
referred to the memorandum dated August 17, 2016, regarding Debriefing/Post-
Mortem Firefly Music Festival. She explained that this was the first year that the
entire festival was held within the City, and staff knew that it would be a learning
experience and there would be some things that they would want to improve next
year. Mrs. Townshend indicated that 152 man-hours were expended by the Fire
Marshal’s Office staff, noting that loading of campgrounds was one of the most time
intensive issues. A number of issues were identified during the loading where the
fire marshals intervened to ensure that parking allowed for adequate emergency
access and that tail pipes were not against tents in the tent camping areas.
Mrs. Townshend stated that there were a number of occupancy load checks. The fire
marshals went early in the day to inspect all pyrotechnic displays and were on stage
for these events. Mrs. Townshend informed members that there was one (1) small
fire and a few minor issues that were identified and shared with Dover International
Speedway, noting that the Speedway was equally concerned about these issues.
In regard to next year’s festival, Mrs. Townshend stated that there was a need to fine-
tune the campground layout. She explained that tents and RVs were intermingled but
need to be separated to prevent attendees from backing their cars up to their tents.
She explained that if someone was sitting in an air-conditioned car and backed up to
a tent, this would create a carbon monoxide issue. Mrs. Townshend advised that staff
had identified some information that would be helpful to have in the future when
permit information comes in, such as the number and type of camping spots. For the
most part, she felt that the event went extremely smoothly, and both Red Frog
Entertainment and the Speedway worked very well with City staff.
Councilman Hosfelt, who serves as security manager for Dover Motorsports, Inc.,
noted that Lot 18, which had been annexed into the City, is the largest campground
at the speedway and, when full of campers on Firefly Weekend, this area is probably
the fourth largest City in Delaware. He offered kudos to Interim Fire Marshal
Jason Osika and Deputy Fire Marshal Matthew Brown, stating that they had worked
very well with Mr. Mark Hostetter, Fire Protection and Life Safety Technician, Dover
Motorsports, Inc. Mr. Hosfelt stated that the Speedway values this great relationship.
He indicated that aerial photographs spoke wonders as to what the Fire Marshal’s
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Office staff had done, and the State Police had also spoken volumes about this,
stating that the work of the Fire Marshal’s Office had helped with the State Police’s
response time.
Mrs. Townshend stated that Interim Fire Marshal Osika and Deputy Fire
Marshal Brown had put a lot of effort into the festival and reminded members that
the Fire Marshal’s Office was down to two (2) people during the festival.
Mr. Neil stated that he was very impressed and felt, from the standpoint of the
internal workings, that the event was absolutely marvelous. He believed that the
head of all the multiple police forces for the entire operation showed obvious
experience. Mr. Neil advised that this event was held directly across from where he
lives and the flow moving in and out was probably the easiest it had ever been for the
residents on Persimmon Tree Lane. He explained that getting emergency vehicles
through, which had been a major problem, was much better this year. Mr. Neil
thanked Dover Downs, Dover Speedway, and whoever served as the head of the
effort and suggested that they meet on a regular basis to let all of the neighbors know
what is happening. He also felt that directing all traffic through the woodlands up to
the northeast Lot 18 entrance near Route 9 would be useful. Mr. Neil applauded the
efforts of Dover Downs and Dover Motorsports for their efforts to resolve the issues
that neighbors directly across from the event had. Responding, Mrs. Townshend
advised that the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) had a big role in
this.
Lieutenant Christopher Hermance, Special Enforcement Unit Commander, Dover
Police Department, stated that one of his primary responsibilities is serving as the
major events’ coordinator for the Firefly Festival. He reviewed a presentation
entitled, “Special Preparation Instructions & Debriefing/Post-Mortem on Firefly
Music Festival.” Lieutenant Hermance advised that the event ran from Wednesday,
June 15, 2016 through Monday, June 20, 2016, and one of the unique things about
this event was the addition of the Lot 18 and Division 3 area into the City of Dover’s
jurisdiction. He explained that in years past the Delaware State Police handled this
area. This year, the Dover Police Department took full command and worked with
the Delaware State Police, who assisted specifically in Lot 18.
Lieutenant Hermance stated that the Dover Police Department had to take on
additional positions. Referring to the Grid Map, he explained that in prior years the
Dover Police Department handled Divisions 1, 2, and 4, along with traffic and
camping positions, and the Delaware State Police had responsibility for Division 3.
Lieutenant Hermance advised that Division 3 had now been annexed into the City
and falls under the primary command of the Dover Police Department. He explained
that Police Chief Paul Bernat’s priority was to put Dover officers inside the festival,
which meant that Lieutenant Hermance had to employ up to 19 different agencies
throughout the State to assist in traffic and camping positions. Lieutenant Hermance
indicated that those agencies did a fantastic job. He advised that, in preparing for
the festival, monthly and then weekly meetings were held to open lines of
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communication with the Speedway and Mr. Hosfelt regarding numerous issues,
including monitoring threat levels. He stated that there were also training videos
shown to officers who are educated about the event because they must respond to
many questions.
Lieutenant Hermance advised that officers were brought in at 6:00 a.m. on
Wednesday and worked with DelDOT to get attendees to the grounds as effectively
and safely as possible. He noted that at any given time there were almost 49,000
people sleeping on the ground. Lieutenant Hermance advised that one of the big
changes made this year was to close the Leipsic Road Bridge at 10:00 p.m. to all
vehicular traffic, including emergency vehicles. The bridge was used strictly for
pedestrians, which allowed a massive flow of pedestrians to come through when
clearing out. Lieutenant Hermance explained that the festival is on one side of Route
1 and camping is on the other. Vehicles and personnel were pre-positioned so that
they did not have to cross the bridge, and this approach worked very well. Lieutenant
Hermance advised that they prepared for weather problems, such as those that
occurred in years past; however, there were no weather problems this year.
Lieutenant Hermance noted that the City’s Drug, Vice and Organized Crime Unit had
lucrative arrests in terms of drugs and counterfeit material, such as shirts. He stated
that there were 19 supporting police agencies involved in the festival who expended
almost 1,800 man-hours. Including the City of Dover, there were with approximately
1,350 man-hours spent in the camping area and 1,470 in the festival, with a total of
4,662 hours of overtime for officers on the grounds and in the area of the Speedway
supporting the event. Lieutenant Hermance reviewed some of the calls for services
that were received, as well as items that needed to be addressed and corrected for the
2017 Firefly Festival.
Mr. Sudler stated that he had seen individuals who were drinking while walking to
the Firefly Music Festival from State College Road and crossing to the Acme store,
and asked if this is heavily or lightly enforced. Responding, Lieutenant Hermance
explained that once the officers are inside the festival, they do not have the resources
to address the roadways because they have other things that they should be doing.
He indicated that City road patrol units, if available, could handle issues on public
roadways. Lieutenant Hermance indicated that this matter had not been an issue and
they did not see much enforcement there.
In response to Mr. Sudler, Mr. Hosfelt advised that Red Frog Entertainment pays the
bill for overtime hours for this event. He explained that Red Frog Entertainment is
an extra duty employer who requests extra duty officers, similar to requests received
from local nightclubs or for high school basketball games.
Mr. Hutchison extended compliments, stating that this is a major event for the City
with approximately 90,000 people attending, most of who are young people. He
noted that coordination, training, and leadership is needed to get the job done and
stated that every year the City gets better at it. Mr. Hutchison felt that this said a lot
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about the agencies involved and noted that once the event is over, those involved are
already talking about next year. Lieutenant Hermance noted that discussions
regarding the next year begin a week after the event, and they are already striving to
do better.
Mr. Keller commented that the clean-up was very effective as well, and
Lieutenant Hermance indicated that the Police Department was not involved in that
effort.
Prioritization of City of Dover State Capital Transportation Program (CTP)
Projects
Members were informed that, each year, City Council develops priorities for capital
improvements to State transportation infrastructure and shares these priorities with
the Secretary of Transportation for consideration as the Delaware Department of
Transportation (DelDOT) develops the State's Capital Transportation Plan (CTP).
She explained that staff had reviewed the priorities that were set in September 2015
by City Council, stating that the 2016 list was unchanged except for the addition of
a North U.S. Route 13 Service Road behind Dover Mall. She explained that the
Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee received a presentation on this
proposal at their meeting on June 28, 2016. Staff recommended the following
priority ranking for the coming year:
1. Construction of Sidewalks within the Walk Zone of the New
Dover High School - Now that the Dover High School has been
operational for a full school year, the critical sidewalk gaps that
were identified in the Dover High Pedestrian Study performed by
the Dover/Kent County MPO continue to be a high priority. The
critical gaps that are of highest priority to the City and most
critical in providing safe access to the school are listed below:
a. Mifflin Road
b. South Side of Route 8 West of Mifflin Road
Students are routinely seen walking within the roadway and
shoulder on the side of Route 8 between the Dover High School
and Mifflin Road and along Mifflin Road. The City is concerned
about the safety of pedestrians in this area. While there is
currently no funding in place, the City believes that this is a safety
issue that must be addressed.
2. Kenton Road Corridor Upgrades - Upgrading Kenton Road,
including the addition of sidewalks along the road, continues to
be a priority for the City. This project is currently in the Capital
Transportation Plan.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 27
3. Loockerman Street/Forest Street Improvements - This project has
been a priority for the City to help spur redevelopment and
improved traffic flow on the west side of Dover. It was initially
identified in the West Side Redevelopment study performed in
2001. This project is currently funded in the Capital
Transportation Plan. With the Downtown Development District
Program, the implementation of this project is a priority for the
City.
4. Garrison Oak Connector Road - Due to the increased activity and
interest in the Garrison Oak Technical Park, the planning and
construction of this connection to Delaware Route 1 is
increasingly important. This project is not currently in the Capital
Transportation Plan.
5. North U.S. Route 13 Service Road - The North Route 13 Service
Road would run parallel to Route 1 between Leipsic Road and
Scarborough Road. It would help to remove some of the traffic
from U.S. Route 13 and would provide economic benefit to the
Dover Mall and expansion of development on the mall property.
This project is not currently in the Capital Transportation Plan.
6. College Road Corridor Upgrades - This project is intended to
upgrade College Road to include sidewalks and other road
improvements. This project is not currently in the Capital
Transportation Plan.
7. Route 8/Hazlettville Road Connector - This is planned to be a
north/south access road that was identified in the Delaware 8
Concept Plan and Operations Study. With the construction of the
new Dover High School, the construction of this connection is
important to providing access to the school without causing
additional burden on other roads in the area. This project is not
currently in the Capital Transportation Plan.
8. Crawford Carroll Avenue Extension - The extension of Crawford
Carroll Avenue south toward the Delaware State University
Campus becomes a more critical priority with Delaware State
University's lease of the Sheraton Hotel property. The extension
of Crawford Carroll Avenue will help avoid use of U.S. Route 13
for local trips between the Sheraton property and the Delaware
State University Campus. This project is included in the Capital
Transportation Plan.
9. Kings Highway/Route 13 Intersection Improvements - The
intersection of Kings Highway, U.S. Route 13, and White Oak
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 28
road needs improvement to meet an acceptable level of service
standard. The current condition of the intersection hinders
redevelopment of properties in this vicinity. This project is not
in the Capital Transportation Plan.
10. U.S. Route 13 Service Road Corridor - The construction of
service roads along U.S. Route 13 is a project that will help to
alleviate congestion on U.S. Route 13. This project is not in the
Capital Transportation Plan.
11. U.S. Route 13 Sidewalk Construction - Construction of sidewalks
along U.S. 13 continues to be a priority. This project is not in the
Capital Transportation Plan. Construction of sidewalks is required
when properties develop.
In addition to these projects, the City is also in support of
implementation of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plans developed by the
Dover/Kent County MPO and approved by City Council in 2016.
The City is appreciative of the construction of Capital City Trail
segments by DelDOT and the active participation on the part of
DelDOT in our efforts to make Dover more bicycle and pedestrian
friendly. The City is also appreciative of DelDOT’s support of
planning and construction of segments of the Senator Bikeway.
These projects will be beneficial to the quality of life of Dover
residents.
Mrs. Townshend advised members that prioritizing transportation projects had
helped to achieve some of the City’s goals. For example, the Loockerman Street
roundabout had fallen off the State’s transportation list, and through the City’s
prioritization and advocating through the MPO process, this project was put back on
the list and funded.
In response to Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Townshend advised that the City’s transportation
prioritization list is a wish list of projects to be funded by the State, and many of the
projects have no funding associated with them yet.
The Committee recommended approval of the priority ranking for the coming year,
as recommended by staff.
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Anderson and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee meeting was held with
Chairman Hare presiding.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 29
Addition to the Dover Police Department Vehicle Fleet
Deputy Chief Marvin Mailey requested permission to add to the Police Department’s
vehicle fleet. He advised that a member of the Police Department was assigned to
the U. S. Marshal’s Task Force and the U. S. Marshals had proposed to give the
Police Department a vehicle. This vehicle would be fully paid for by the federal
government; however, the City would have responsibility for the ownership and
insurance, and it would become a City of Dover vehicle. Deputy Chief Mailey
indicated that the City would not bear any of the cost of purchasing the vehicle,
which was approximately $31,000; however, the City would have to insure and
register it. He indicated that the vehicle would be used for undercover operations and
tasks associated with the retrieval of fugitives by this member of the Police
Department. Deputy Chief Mailey stated that he had spoken with the officer earlier
in the day, and if it was decided to take him off the task force at some point, the City
would retain the vehicle.
Staff recommended allowing the Police Department to take ownership of the vehicle
and add it to the fleet.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Deputy Chief Mailey stated that once the lifetime
of the vehicle has expired, it would be the City’s asset to dispose of, so there could
be potential revenues to the City or it could be available for another use by the City.
In response to Mr. Hutchison regarding the length of time of the City’s commitment
to the U. S. Marshal’s Office, Deputy Chief Mailey indicated that the Police
Department had engaged in one-year agreements in the past. Even though the officer
would be with the task force, there is an understanding that he can be called if the
Police Department has a need for him to perform the normal functions of a police
officer. Deputy Chief Mailey indicated that this officer was assigned to the
Department’s Special Investigations Unit, and his primary duty was to pursue
fugitives with the assistance of the U. S. Marshals. This one-year agreement is
renewed every year by the Police Chief.
The Committee recommended allowing the Police Department to take ownership of
the vehicle and add it to the fleet, as recommended by staff.
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Anderson and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Revenue Policy for Extra Duty/Voluntary Overtime
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, reminded members that Council had
adopted a policy for billing for extra duty/voluntary overtime a couple of years ago.
She explained that staff calculates the rates based on the actual cost of service and
factors in the overhead cost, as well as the cost of other City staff who work events.
Mrs. Mitchell noted that in March 2016 staff presented revised rates to Council based
on the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) contract that was approved, and these rates
were approved, but staff held off on the special event rates. After analyzing the
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 30
actual cost of the special events, it was determined that there was a need to adjust
these rates. Mrs. Mitchell reviewed the draft revised Revenue Policy, noting that the
changes were mostly administrative.
Referring to the billing rates on page 10 of the draft revised Revenue Policy,
Mrs. Mitchell noted that the rate changes would affect only special event rates,
stating that the other rates were implemented in March 2016. In regard to the Officer
Extra Duty Billing Rates for Special Events, Mrs. Mitchell indicated that she planned
to correct the Policy by removing the term “Officer Extra Duty” to state only “Billing
Rates for Special Events” because staff was now also billing for dispatchers. She
explained that the extra duty was a product of the FOP contract and no other
employment contracts. Mrs. Mitchell noted that special event rates were listed for
officers, dispatchers at straight time, and dispatchers at overtime, and this would line
up with the contractual language. She explained that the rates are calculated by
determining the actual cost, the officer rate and the dispatcher rate are the median of
the population, and the overhead and other City costs are taken into consideration to
calculate that rate. Mrs. Mitchell indicated that in the prior Policy, the overhead
included the dispatchers, as well as the Police Chief and the Major, who are also paid
for special events. She explained that the in the draft revised Policy, Police Chief
and Major had been pulled from the overhead rate and were now included in the
Special Event Rate for officers, and the dispatchers would be billed separately.
Mrs. Mitchell advised that the only costs in the overhead rate would be some of the
cost of insurance, the costs of the Fire Marshal’s Office, Mrs. Kay Sass, Public
Affairs and Emergency Management Coordinator, and some of the other City staff
that have to work these events, such as pump station mechanics. She indicated that
the overhead rate also included some overhead costs, operating expenses, and staff
expenses and took all of the Police personnel out of the overhead cost and put this
into direct billing. Mrs. Mitchell stated that Police Department administrative staff
had billed for the dispatchers, the Chief, and the Major at the old rate of $59.00 per
hour, even though they were in the overhead rate under the prior Policy. She
indicated that the City lost money on the Firefly Music Festival, and noted that had
the Police Department administrative staff not billed for those rates and used only the
overhead rates, the City would have lost even more money. Mrs. Mitchell advised
that the City would direct bill for the Police staff people and the overhead would then
include everyone else but Police Department staff. She stated this was a change to
the way these rates were calculated for the 2016 Firefly Music Festival.
Staff recommended approval of the revised Revenue Policy - Extra Duty/Voluntary
Overtime.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Mrs. Mitchell stated that the amount of funds lost due to
the Firefly Music Festival was approximately $5,500; however, that was with staff
billing for the Chief, the Major, the Chief, and the dispatchers at $59.00 per hour.
The Committee recommended approval of the revised Revenue Policy - Police Extra
Duty/Voluntary Overtime, as corrected, as recommended by staff.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 31
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved for approval of the revised Revenue Policy - Police Extra
Duty/Voluntary Overtime (Exhibit #1), seconded by Mr. Anderson and carried by a
unanimous roll call vote.
Application for Rural Economic Development Grant Through U.S. Department
of Agriculture (USDA)
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development,
advised members that she and Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, had been in contact
with the U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Delaware Office about a grant
program that Smyrna had very effectively utilized. She explained that the City would
receive a $300,000 grant from the USDA and would have to provide a 20% match.
Mrs. Townshend indicated that this money would be used to start a loan fund for
economic development. A letter had been received approximately three (3) weeks
ago stating that the City would be eligible for this program as a rural utility provider.
The City would receive the funds from the USDA, allocate $60,000 of City funds,
and establish a loan fund. Mrs. Townshend noted that the application for the funds
would be due to the USDA Delaware Office on September 30, 2016, and a number
of details would need to be worked out. She explained that the projects to be funded
in the first round must be identified in the application. Mrs. Townshend informed
members that, as monies are paid back into the loan fund, they can be loaned back
out. The first $360,000 must be loaned at 0% interest for a 10-year term, and after
that the City can specify an interest amount if desired.
Staff recommended that the Committee and City Council authorize staff to proceed
with the application for funds and the establishment of a loan fund. If Council would
like further review of the funding recipients for the first round of funding, staff
requested that this role be assigned to the Economic Development Committee.
In response to Mr. Shevock, Mr. Koenig advised that this was not a budgeted item
and the $60,000 in City funds would have to come out of the first budget amendment
when the unapplied balances are brought forward, or an adjustment would have to
be made in the City budget for the expense. He indicated that staff would like to
make the application because they thought this was a good opportunity to get
$300,000 from the federal government. Mr. Koenig indicated that necessary budget
adjustments would be made going forward to meet the 20% match.
Responding to Mr. Hutchison, Mrs. Townshend did not believe that this was a new
program. She explained that number of years ago, she had inquired about eligibility
for USDA programs for housing and received the answer that the City’s population
was too high, and she assumed that the City did not qualify for USDA funds at all.
Mrs. Townshend indicated that after several members of Council went to
Washington, DC, Councilman Cole approached her about this subject, which
had come up with Representative John Carney’s staff. She noted that
Mr. Todd Stonesifer, member of the Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP) Board of
Directors, had also been in contact with the USDA because he is part of the
Destination Downtown Dover group, which is trying to recruit businesses to
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downtown Dover and had looked at the program’s success in Smyrna.
Mrs. Townshend informed members that Smyrna had received this grant from the
USDA and their initial loan was for the Duck Creek Inn, which was now a very
successful restaurant. She stated that over 10 years the business owner would pay
funds back at a 0% interest rate.
Mr. Hutchison felt that this was a great idea.
Mr. Slavin stated his belief that the City had reserve funds that were funded above
policy levels and questioned if they could be reduced to the policy level to obtain this
$60,000. Responding, Mrs. Mitchell confirmed that there were reserve funds that
were funded above minimum policy level and Council could do this if they choose
to do so. She was unsure if the 20% would be matched as each loan is done or if the
entire $60,000 would have to be put in up front, stating that there were a lot of details
missing. Mrs. Mitchell stated that she was in favor and thought it was a good
program; however, she had questions and wanted to work out the details regarding
administering the loan, determine if there were collateral requirements and/or liens,
etc.
Mr. Slavin suggested that within the next two (2) weeks, before this matter comes
before Council for full consideration, that this all be worked out and the source of the
$60,000 be identified. He stated that these are the moments when other people beat
the City to the markets, when it takes six (6) to 12 weeks to analyze everything, and
hoped that this could be done quickly.
(City Clerk’s Office Note: Subsequent to the meeting, Mrs. Mitchell provided a
memorandum dated August 24, 2016, regarding the Rural Economic Development
Loan & Grant Program.)
Mrs. Mitchell advised that she had talked to Mr. Bruce Weaver, Business and
Cooperative Specialist/State Energy Coordinator, USDA, who stated that the chances
of the City receiving this money were good.
Mayor Christiansen shared Mr. Slavin’s concern that a source of funding must be
identified. He also asked what the recourse would be if the loan was defaulted on,
and if the City would seize the property. Responding, Mrs. Townshend indicated that
these were the details that staff would have to develop as part of a loan program. She
stated that this would depend on what the funds were used for, noting that in some
cases they may be used for property purchase or construction and it would be easy to
place a lien; however, in some cases funds may be used for start-up capital, such as
tables and chairs for a restaurant or other operational items. Mrs. Townshend
advised that staff was in the beginning stages and must obtain the application and
look at how other successful programs had been run. She felt that, based on her
knowledge of federal programs, it would take some time for the USDA to review the
application and stated that additional legwork could be done during that time.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 33
Mr. Sudler asked Mr. Todd Stonesifer, 115 North State Street, for his opinion
regarding the advantages and disadvantages of the program. Responding,
Mr. Stonesifer indicated that he and some of his associates had been trying to identify
potential businesses that would open and spark economic development and
revitalization downtown. He indicated that these program funds would be in addition
to Downtown Dover Development (DDD) funds issued by the State. Mr. Stonesifer
stated that they thought this program would be a huge driver to encourage businesses
to open their doors and had already identified two (2) projects that they would work
with City staff on in order to pursue the application.
The Committee recommended authorizing staff to proceed with the application for
funds and the establishment of a loan fund, as recommended by staff. If Council
would like further review of the funding recipients for the first round of funding, staff
requests that this role be assigned to the Economic Development Committee.
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, advised members
that the $300,000 USDA economic development grant would be matched 20% with $60,000 of City
funds, for a total funding amount of $360,000 to establish a revolving economic development loan
program. She stated that Smyrna had successfully used this program and staff recently received
verification that the City was eligible for the funding, noting that there had been some question about
the City’s population size. Mrs. Townsend indicated that staff continued to recommend moving
forward with a grant application; however, after reviewing the grant application and program
regulations, staff had asked for clarification, and it became apparent that the City was not in a
position to meet the USDA’s September 30, 2016 deadline. She noted that the next deadline would
be December 31, 2016. Mrs. Townshend explained that this extension would allow staff time to firm
up some of the details regarding how the loan program would work. Mrs. Townshend stated that
there were restrictions regarding the use of the initial grant amount, which is the seed money for the
loan program, that had not been clear to staff; however, the revolving funds could be used for
anything that is within the strategy that is developed for the program. She advised that some of the
initial funding could not be used for the purposes intended by staff, and more time was needed to put
together a solid application. She stated that, if the application was planned appropriately, it could
bring federal funds into Delaware to help business growth.
Mr. Lewis moved to authorize staff to proceed with the application for funds and the
establishment of a loan fund, as recommended by the Committee. If Council would like
further review of the funding recipients for the first round of funding, staff requested that this
role be assigned to the Economic Development Committee. The motion was seconded by
Mr. Hutchison and unanimously carried.
Requests for Additional Extensions
Banking and Cash Management Services Agreement
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, reminded members that the City awarded
a three-year contract for bank and cash management services to WSFS Bank in
August 2012, and the contract included a provision for two (2), 1-year extensions
with Council approval. She indicated that the Finance Department missed the
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original expiration of the contract in August 2015; however, authorization to extend
the contract through August 31, 2016 was approved by Council in December 2015.
Mrs. Mitchell explained that, in reviewing the proposals received for the Electronic
Bill Presentment and Bill Payment Services (EBPP), which will be considered by the
Committee during the latter part of the meeting, as well as Enterprise Resource
Planning (ERP) systems and credit card services, staff felt that there was a good deal
of interconnection and interchange on these topics and that it would be a disservice
to rush through this matter. She noted that staff was currently completing this
analysis and conducting research on best practices for the Government Finance
Officers Association (GFOA) and requested approval of the second one-year
extension of the City’s current banking services contract.
Staff recommended authorizing the Controller/Treasurer to extend the WSFS
Banking and Cash Management services agreement through August 2017.
The Committee recommended authorizing the Controller/Treasurer to extend the
WSFS Banking and Cash Management services agreement through August 2017, as
recommended by staff.
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Anderson and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
ADP Contract
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller Treasurer, advised that in December 2015, City staff
requested authorization to negotiate an extension of the City’s current ADP contract
in light of the City’s efforts to evaluate alternative Enterprise Resource Planning
(ERP) systems. She explained that an extension was negotiated, and ADP provided
the price increases over current cost for the next three (3) years. Mrs. Mitchell
advised that she had emailed the vendor to attempt to align this contract with ERP
by obtaining an end date of December 31, 2018 for W-2 purposes, but had not yet
been able to achieve this. For this reason, she was unsure if the contract would
terminate on December 1, 2018 or December 31, 2018. She reminded members that
a contract was awarded for the ERP consultant during the Regular City Council
Meeting of August 22, 2016 and indicated that she had talked to the ERP consultant
and asked if a December 1, 2018 termination date for ADP would be a problem or
if they would help the City to negotiate any change, and they were agreeable to this.
Staff recommended authorizing the Controller/Treasurer to extend the ADP contract
through December 1, 2018, unless the ERP implementation results in an earlier
cancellation.
The Committee recommended authorizing the Controller/Treasurer to extend the
ADP contract through December 1, 2018 or December 31, 2018.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 35
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Anderson and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Evaluation of Request for Proposals - Electronic Bill Presentment and Bill
Payment Services (EBPP)
Mrs. Mitchell explained that Electronic Bill Presentment and Bill Payment Services
(EBPP) relates to customers who review or pay electric bills online via use of a credit
card or electronic payment. She stated that staff evaluated proposals for this service,
noting that the current service had been previously bundled with the City’s banking
services agreement. Mrs. Mitchell explained that nine (9) proposals were received
and reviewed. Comparisons were difficult because some required merchant/credit
card services to be combined while others did not, and pricing structures varied.
Mrs. Mitchell indicated that InvoiceCloud was recommended for a one-year contract
with four (4) one-year renewals because of the City’s ERP implementation. She
indicated that she talked to the ERP consultant, who advised that InvoiceCloud
would provide much more functionality than other ERP vendors who provide bill
presentment.
Mrs. Mitchell informed members that each proposal had been priced out and the
proposal from WSFS Bank was over $108,000, PNC was $167,000, Retail Lockbox
Merchant Services was $173,000, Value Payment Systems was $69,500 with an
implementation fee, eGov Strategies, LLC was $70,800, and Aliaswire was $83,568.
She indicated that they were all higher priced than InvoiceCloud and several had
implementation and/or set-up fees. Mrs. Mitchell stated that PaymentUS partnered
with HTE/Sungard, the City’s current software vendor, to do the integration but
wanted $9,350 for that cost, over $5,000 of which was an annual cost. She explained
that InvoiceCloud had no cost on setup or startup.
Referring to the estimated volume calculations, Mrs. Mitchell explained that a 14%
growth rate was applied and the average rate per transaction was $0.56, versus $0.59
for the current vendor. She advised members that representatives from InvoiceCloud
had met with the City Manager, Assistant City Manager, and Customer Service staff.
Mrs. Mitchell reviewed some of the features of the service, explaining that mobile
service would be optimized. She noted that the service sends three (3) alerts for a
late bill and provides 27 email templates that can be modified, which would provide
more flexibility. Noting that there had been recent discussion about collections,
Mrs. Mitchell explained that staff believed that this service would allow for the most
customer flexibility since it has many features and would also allow for payment on
a mobile phone, iPad, or computer.
Staff recommended awarding a one-year contract to InvoiceCloud for an estimated
first year annual cost to the City of $67,000. This first year estimated annual cost
includes a 14% growth in customer use. The proposed contract for Electronic Bill
Presentment and Bill Payment services includes an option to renew each year for four
(4) subsequent years.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 36
Mr. Lewis asked if the system would include a service fee. Responding,
Mrs. Mitchell stated that there would be a per unit cost. Credit and debit cards would
be $0.60 per item, e-checks would be $0.50, chargebacks for bad credit cards would
be $15.00 per unit, and Interactive Voice Response (IVR) would be $0.25 per
transaction. She explained that staff took current volumes and increased them by
14%, resulting in a $66,912 annual cost and an average of $0.56 per transaction. She
noted that InvoiceCloud tries to market their program for growth and would send
emails about the program to those whose email addresses they have.
Mr. Lewis questioned if the cost of the system would be $67,000. Responding,
Mrs. Mitchell stated that this was an estimate and the City would pay an average of
$0.56 per unit.
In response to Mr. Lewis regarding service fees, Mrs. Mitchell advised that although
there is a charge for online bill payment, this is an operating expense that is not
charged to City customers.
Responding to Mr. Neil, Mrs. Mitchell advised that anyone who is currently paying
their bills automatically will be able to continue this seamlessly.
In response to Mr. Sudler regarding whether this item was budgeted for 2016,
Mrs. Mitchell stated that funds for this service were allocated in the current budget
as bank and credit card fees. She indicated that each of the fund budgets has a fund
expense line item and this is built in, along with lockbox fees.
Mr. Hare noted that he pays his electric bill monthly through his bank, which sends
a paper check. Mrs. Mitchell indicated that the City pays bank fees for services such
as online banking and e-checks and pays for paper checks sent by the bank through
the lock box.
The Committee recommended awarding a one-year contract to InvoiceCloud for an
estimated first year annual cost to the City of $67,000. This first year estimated
annual cost includes a 14% growth in customer use. The proposed contract for
Electronic Bill Presentment and Bill Payment services includes an option to renew
each year for four (4) subsequent years.
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Anderson and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Uncollectible Reserve Adjustments and Demolition Cost Recovery
During the Special Council Meeting (Budget Review) of June 2, 2015, members
referred the review of the demolitions process and some of the issues related to
recouping fees to the Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee. During the
Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee meeting of June 22, 2015, members
deferred discussion of Cost Recovery for Violations of the Dangerous Building
Ordinance (Demolitions).
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Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, advised members that every year the City
must demonstrate to its auditors that the City has enough funds in reserve to handle
receivables that are 90 days old or older. Referring to a spreadsheet entitled,
“Receivables Over 90 Days - June 30, 2016,” Mrs. Mitchell stated that this document
contained an analysis and calculation of these receivables. Referring to the
Demolitions FY 2016 Activity as of June 30, 2016, she noted that the cost of
demolitions had increased, which was anticipated, and explained that this cost was
written off against the uncollectible reserve, which now had a $28,000 negative
balance. She indicated that receivables over 90 days would have to be replenished
by approximately $300,000 and this expense must be accrued to FY 16; therefore, the
carryforward balance in the preliminary June budget report would decrease by
$300,000. Mrs. Mitchell stated that the Electric Fund would also need to be
increased and recommended that funds be taken from the Inventory Reserve, which
was overfunded. She explained that the Inventory Reserve Fund is used to cover
losses due to the disposal of damaged inventory.
Staff recommended authorizing the Controller/Treasurer to record an adjustment of
$300,000 each as a reserve for estimated uncollectible receivables for Fiscal Year
2016, thereby reducing the Budget Balance in the General Fund and the Inventory
Reserve Balance in the Electric Fund.
In response to Mr. Sudler, Mrs. Mitchell estimated that the balance in the Inventory
Reserve Fund was approximately $968,000.
The Committee recommended authorizing the Controller/Treasurer to record an
adjustment of $300,000 each as a reserve for estimated uncollectible receivables for
Fiscal Year 2016, thereby reducing the Budget Balance in the General Fund and the
Inventory Reserve Balance in the Electric Fund, as recommended by staff.
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Anderson and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Discussion of Duties and Assignments of City Personnel
During the Council Committee of the Whole/Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee meeting of July 26, 2016, members discussed the Duties
and Assignments of City Personnel and deferred this matter until members had all
the information they needed.
Council President Slavin advised that some members of Council had a number of
concerns about this topic, noting that it had been discussed last year and again during
the FY 2017 budget hearings. He indicated that he had requested that this be put on
the agenda as an open discussion item with no end result in mind other than to
discuss it. Mr. Slavin felt it likely that the discussion would take place over a couple
different meetings as members work through the issues. He felt that two (2) areas
had come into focus, the first being the public safety cluster of functions. He noted
that a Special Council Committee of the Whole/Safety Advisory and Transportation
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Committee meeting was scheduled for September 7, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. to consider
the Public Safety Study - Fire/EMS Operational & Administrative Analysis.
Mr. Slavin advised members that this study included recommendations regarding
further clustering safety functions and suggested that members review the study. He
also stated the need to look at the collapsing of functions that took place during
financial down times that resulted in the Planning and Inspections and the Parks and
Recreation Departments being merged into one large department. Mr. Slavin advised
that he was not on Council when this occurred and that he would not discredit the
decisions that were made then. He thought that the right decision was probably made
at the time for the circumstances that were presented; however, he had experienced
some issues in this regard. Mr. Slavin stated that he looked forward to an open and
frank discussion about whether there might be better ways to create effectiveness in
the organization by moving some functions around.
Mr. Sudler indicated that he would like to see the Planning and Inspections
Department separated from the Parks and Recreation Department, with individual
directors.
In response to Mr. Lewis, Mr. Slavin stated that he believed there would be an
opportunity between now and when budget discussions begin in earnest in late March
or early April to develop some ideas, establish some scenarios, vet those scenarios,
and consider their financial impact. He noted that it is very difficult to take on this
task at the same time that members are trying to balance the budget.
Mr. Hare suggested considering responsibility for the budget, noting that this
responsibility had fluctuated. He stated the need to decide on whether this would be
the responsibility of the Finance Department or the City Manager’s Office before
moving ahead with determining whether to hire additional people and felt this should
be on the agenda.
The Committee deferred this item until September 27, 2016.
Designing and Expanding Recruitment for City Committees, Commissions, and
Boards
During the Regular City Council Meeting of July 11, 2016, members considered
reappointments recommended by Mayor Christiansen and members referred the issue
of designing and expanding the recruitment for City committees, commissions and
boards to the Council Committee of the Whole. Mr. Hare suggested requesting
Councilmen Anderson and Lewis to get together and make recommendations to the
Committee in this regard.
Mr. Lewis advised members that he had not spoken with Mr. Anderson and was
unsure of his ideas; however, Mr. Lewis had several suggestions, as follows:
1) Advertise or place news briefs through the local media regarding
vacancies on boards or committees.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 39
2) Place postings of such vacancies on the City’s website or
Facebook with information on how to apply for the particular
board or vacancy.
3) When applications come in, have the City Clerk or person
receiving applications provide Council members with copies of
resumes and applications to review before the City Council
meeting.
4) Require all individuals interested in serving on a board or
commission, including members wishing to be reappointed, to fill
out an application with a resume since reappointed members may
have new information they need to provide.
5) With respect to training, Mr. Lewis advised that he would inquire
through the Delaware League of Local Governments (DLLG) if
basic training was offered for individuals who want to serve, for
example, on the Planning Commission or Dover Human
Relations Commission. He explained that, while he was serving
as a school board member, the Delaware School Board
Association had offered training on how to be a good school
board member, including training on finances and various things
that Mr. Lewis thought were essential.
Mr. Sudler agreed with Mr. Lewis, believing that this type of training would enhance
individuals’ understanding of the duties and expectations of committee members, as
well as the City of Dover in general.
Mr. Neil indicated that this was not a new idea, noting that the State of Delaware has
an entire board for this process. He explained that the State also has forms to be
filled out and applicants must have resumes stating their expertise, noting that the
City may not need a process that was this extensive. Mr. Neil was unsure if this
should be a matter for the City Clerk’s Office or Human Resources Department, but
thought that in essence it was part of Human Resources. He did not feel there was
a need to reinvent the wheel but to style a process for the City and determine who
would receive and hold the information. Mr. Neil stated that news releases to the
media would get the word out without additional expense.
Mr. Lewis concurred that a process already existed; however, he expressed the need
to advance and improve it, particularly in regard to recruiting.
Mrs. Kay Sass, Public Affairs and Emergency Management Officer, stated that
everything Mr. Lewis had mentioned could easily be covered and that there were
many options with no cost, including use of social media through Facebook. She
recommended that a link be placed on the main page of the City’s website to the
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 40
listing of available committee openings, and the application. Mrs. Sass advised that
press releases could be done; however, funds would have to be budgeted if other
advertising was desired.
With respect to social media, Mrs. Sass recommended a total of five (5) posts in
order to issue information with the greatest impact on the community, starting at 10-
12 weeks prior to applications being due and with reposting at six (6) to eight (8)
weeks, two (2) to four (4) weeks, three (3) to five (5) days, and on the due date. She
explained that staff asks for notice of at least two (2) weeks when accepting
information from the community to post on Facebook so to allow adequate time to
incorporate this in their schedule, since Facebook is not a primary focus of staff’s job
duties that is done daily.
Referring to the proposed Application for Committee, Commission, or Board
Appointment, Mrs. Sass advised that the City Clerk had developed this application,
which covered many of the concerns expressed by Councilmen Lewis, Sudler, and
Anderson. She noted that the application asked applicants to describe the skills they
have that would enhance the productivity of the committee, commission, or board.
Mrs. Sass felt that the proposed application was a big improvement from the current
application as it was much more thorough and requested applicants to identify their
districts, allowing the ability to obtain a cross section from the community.
Mrs. Sass commented that many changes would be made to the City’s website,
hopefully within the next few days.
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Sass indicated that it is very easy to have press
releases put in the newspaper. Although they are not always guaranteed to be
printed, she felt it likely that the media would be more than happy to pick up on
them.
Mr. Slavin suggested that this would be an opportunity to pilot Facebook boosts and
Twitter ads, which are very inexpensive. He explained that a Facebook boost will
boost a message beyond the people who “like” a page or who are from the area.
Mr. Slavin indicated that the frequency can be specified, analytics can be received
regarding effectiveness, and this would also allow for periodic release, as suggested
previously by Mrs. Sass. He indicated that the cost to boost an ad is only $5.
Mr. Shevock questioned who would develop the qualifications and review the
applications to determine who is qualified. Responding, Mrs. Sass stated her
understanding that Council wanted to start this conversation among the Committee
members to establish some guidelines. Mr. Shevock noted that each committee
would need different qualifications and felt the qualifications should be advertised
before someone completes an application.
Mr. Hare advised that he did not totally agree with the City putting out the
qualifications and felt this was a question of what an applicant feels they can bring
to a committee, such as a former parks and recreation director or someone with
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 41
experience in public utilities. He believed that members would limit the committees
by requiring utility experience for members of the Utility Committee. Mr. Hare
believed there were individuals who do not have a financial background but would
make very good Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee members
because they had run a business, etc. In his opinion, members should let the
applicant tell them what they can bring to the committee.
Mr. Neil advised that the State application includes recommendations from at least
three (3) individuals endorsing or supporting the application. He felt it would be up
to the councilmen who would review the application, recommendations, and skills
that an applicant brings and hopefully the district representatives could get together
to make an appointment. Mr. Neil did not believe that the City would be deluged
with applications.
For clarification, Mr. Slavin noted that the Council President or Mayor makes
appointments and Council approves appointments.
Mr. Hare noted that civilian members of standing City committees are paid a stipend.
Mr. Sudler felt that, although a detailed job description was not needed, a statement
could be included that experience is preferred. He believed that applicants need to
know exactly what will be expected of them and make an educated decision on
whether or not a committee suits them. He suggested perhaps providing a summary
of what the committee does so applicants could know whether or not they are
eligible. Responding, Mrs. Sass pointed out that this information is currently
available on the website for each committee.
Mr. Hare felt that it was up to Council members to actively reach out and find
individuals in their districts that they believe would do well on committees and
recommend them to the Mayor and Council President. Responding, Mr. Lewis stated
that he had recommended individuals with experience who were not appointed.
Mr. Hare stated that he shared this experience; however, the individuals who were
appointed were also good people.
Mr. Lewis stated that he would like to see a better recruitment tool, which he felt
could be accomplished through Mrs. Sass. He reiterated that he planned to check
with the DLLG to see if they offer training for individuals that do not have the
experience. In Mr. Lewis’s opinion, it would behoove applicants to have some
experience to serve on committees.
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development,
stated that her department staffs three (3) boards and commissions, and she believed
that a bigger pool of interest was needed. She expressed concern about waiting until
there is a vacancy to solicit for it. Mrs. Townshend felt that an application could be
made available, people should be encouraged to apply, and they should be allowed
to self-select what they feel they are qualified for and interested in. She expressed
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concern with waiting to advertise until there is a vacancy since there may not be an
applicant from the district with a vacancy. Mrs. Townshend noted that the Planning
Commission, like Council, has two (2) representatives from each district and one (1)
at-large member. She suggested a rolling application process so there would not be
a large expanse of time while trying to find someone to serve.
Mr. Slavin felt that a rolling application process would create a large expanse of time
if people submit an application and there is no spot for them. He stated that they
would then have a legitimate complaint that they tried to serve and the City never
took them up on their offer. Responding, Mrs. Townshend noted that many
appointments are made at the same time of year. Mr. Slavin stated the need to be
sensitive to this issue and felt that a solution could not be created without looking at
all angles.
Mrs. Townshend explained that the Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment,
Historic District Commission, and standing Council committees are all appointed
between May and July, and suggested having a window that the application process
is open with lead time. She noted that there was currently a vacancy on the Planning
Commission, and that members are sometimes unable to attend meetings.
Mrs. Townshend advised that approximately a year ago a Planning Commission
meeting had been canceled because there was no quorum. She stated that this was
the first time that this had happened since she had been with the City and expressed
concern that perpetuating vacancies could create an operational issue.
Referring to Mr. Lewis’s comment that current members should submit an
application when their term is expiring, Mr. Hare suggested that they submit a shorter
application and a letter of interest.
Mr. Neil moved to defer this matter to allow the ideas to be solidified and brought
back. He stated that a very good start had been made with the application prepared
by the City Clerk and felt that Mr. Anderson and Mr. Lewis should review this
matter, refine it further, and bring it back. The motion was seconded by Mr. Lewis.
Mr. Lewis reiterated that he would like to hear Mr. Anderson’s ideas, noting that they
were supposed to collaborate together. He stated that he liked Mrs. Sass’s
suggestions and would like to see them initiated.
Mr. Hare thought that Mrs. Sass had summarized the entire issue.
Mr. Sudler asked if Mrs. Sass and the City Clerk’s Office would work together on
this and if this would be part of the motion or if members would leave this open, and
questioned if this item would be brought back in 30 or 60 days. Responding,
Mr. Hare indicated that they would work together and the matter would be brought
back at the second meeting in September.
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The Committee deferred this matter until September 27, 2016 to allow the ideas to
be solidified, Mr. Lewis and Mr. Anderson to review and refine it further, and for
Mrs. Sass and the City Clerk’s Office to work together.
Mr. Hare moved for acceptance of the Council Committee of the Whole Report. The motion
was seconded by Mr. Lewis and unanimously carried.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT - AUGUST 16, 2016
The Economic Development Committee met on August 16, 2016 with
Mayor Christiansen presiding.
Discussion of Proposed Resolution Formally Establishing the Economic
Development Committee
During the Special Council Meeting - Budget Review of May 26, 2016, City Council
dissolved the City’s Economic Development Office and created an Economic
Development Committee within the City, with the Mayor to serve as the Committee
Chair and the other members to consist of the City Manager, or the City Manager's
designee, the Chair of the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee, a
designee of the Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP), and the City Planner.
Members reviewed a Proposed Resolution that would formally establish the
Economic Development Committee
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, expressed concern regarding Item #2, which stated
that the Committee shall “Authorize the City Manager to enter into contracts with
respect to economic development on behalf of the City with a majority vote of its
members.” He stated that it was not his understanding when the Committee was
originally created that it would enter into contracts. Mr. Koenig thought the
Committee was to make recommendations regarding contracts that would go to
Council through the Council Committee of the Whole (CCW). He indicated that
there was no budget associated with the Economic Development Committee.
Mr. Koenig explained that the recommendation approved by Council regarding the
dissolution of the City’s Economic Development Office increased the City’s payment
to the DDP from $75,000 to $150,000, and this differential came from the Economic
Development Office’s FY 17 budget of approximately $240,000. He noted that there
were expenses related to the closing of the Economic Development Office for staff
and other things, and the balance of the money for FY 17 was to go into the Mayor’s
budget for unspecified economic development activities. Mr. Koenig could not recall
any discussion at the Council level indicating that the Economic Development
Committee would enter into contracts or direct the City Manager to do so without
further Council oversight.
Mr. Hare agreed with Mr. Koenig and noted that the Committee’s purpose, as stated
in Item #1 of the Proposed Resolution, was to “Promote the economic interests of the
City of Dover, formulate recommendations to Council and staff, and coordinate with
staff, other government bodies and institutions, the business community, and the
public on economic development matters.” Mr. Hare indicated that he would not
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want to authorize the City Manager to enter into any contracts that had not been
approved by Council.
Mr. Koenig noted that, in accordance with the City of Dover Purchasing Policy, the
City Manager has the ability to enter into small contracts; however, contracts over
$25,000 must to go to Council for approval. Within the range of $7,500 to $25,000,
staff must obtain competitive quotes or send requests to two (2) providers and ask
them to reply, although they can decline. Mr. Koenig stated that the economic
development team would not have the ability to issue a contract, for example, for
$50,000, without going through the Council approval process.
Mr. Hare noted that, with the proposed language, the City’s agreement with Calpine
would not have had to come before Council. Mr. Hare did not feel that the Economic
Development Committee should make these types of decisions but should make
recommendations to Council, as the standing Council committees do, and Council
would grant authorization to the City Manager to enter into contracts.
Mr. Koenig stated that he did not want to give the impression that the Committee had
the ability to enter into contracts or the authority to commit to a particular piece of
property before purchase; although they may want the ability to enter directly into a
marketing plan.
Mrs. Townshend advised that she shared the concerns that were stated and felt that
the language in the Proposed Resolution regarding contracts was extremely vague
and broad. She thought that the nine (9) members of Council would probably
interpret “contracts with respect to economic development” in nine (9) different
ways, and she did not want the Economic Development Committee to go beyond
Council’s expectations. Mrs. Townshend suggested that the Committee could be
granted the ability to initiate Requests for Proposals (RFP) without requiring
permission; for example, the RFP to list the Garrison Oak property. She explained
that the Committee could then bring the results directly to the Committee, which
would allow the City to be a little more nimble and reduce processing time.
Mrs. Townshend stated that any contract with respect to economic development
would involve public dollars. Mayor Christiansen believed that it was the fiduciary
responsibility for Council, as the legislative body, to make ultimate decisions
regarding dollars and cents.
Mr. Koenig advised that Councilman Slavin had specifically talked about this
language and suggested that if a recommendation was to be made to Council,
members should get clarification from Mr. Slavin.
Mr. Moore stated his belief that the Proposed Resolution indicated that the
Economic Development Committee could make recommendations and that
Mr. Koenig, as City Manager, would be responsible for taking them to Council. He
felt that members were becoming caught up in the details.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 45
Mr. Hare suggested that perhaps Item #2 of the Proposed Resolution should read,
“Authorize the City Manager to enter into contracts with respect to economic
development on behalf of the City with a majority vote of Council” rather than a
“majority vote of its members.” He did not believe the Committee should authorize
entering into contracts.
Mrs. McDowell advised that during the Council Committee of the Whole/Legislative,
Finance, and Administration Committee Meeting of July 26, 2016, members
considered a Request to Solicit Real Estate Services - Garrison Oak Technical Park.
Mr. Slavin had questioned why the Economic Development Committee was not
authorized to enter into these contracts and indicated that language should be
developed to give them that authority. Mr. Hare concurred, noting that entering into
a contract with a commercial realtor would not cost the City anything. He stated,
however, that this could become a blanket approval, enabling the Committee to enter
into a multi-million dollar contract without Council’s approval. Mayor Christiansen
reiterated his belief that approving contracts was the ultimate responsibility of
Council as the legislative body that has ultimate financial responsibility to the
citizens.
Mrs. Townshend stated that there was uncertainty when discussions began about the
scope of the Committee and reiterated that if the Economic Development Committee
had the authority to do legwork and take matters to Council for final decision and
approval, this would provide a little more versatility to be able to react. For example,
Mrs. Townshend explained that they had requested permission from Council to issue
an RFP for real estate services for Garrison Oak and would now have to do the
RFP and then return to Council. She felt that members could meet with
Council President Slavin to request this authority, and she believed they would not
need the authority to enter into contracts.
Mr. Hare stated that commercial realtors could come to the Committee and give
presentations with respect to the RFP and, as a Committee, members could make a
recommendation to Council regarding the selection of a commercial realtor.
Mr. Moore stated that he could see both sides of this issue, stating it was better to be
more nimble and be able to write a contract, a newspaper advertisement, or attend an
important convention they believe they need to attend.
Mr. Koenig stated that the Economic Development Office was closed in the FY 17
budget process, and the Economic Development Committee had stated that they
would like to do a radio spot for the City of Dover at a cost of $5,000. He indicated
that funds were available for the radio spot in the Mayor’s budget and, as long as the
Committee followed the guidance in the City’s purchasing policy, there was no
question in his mind that he could sign the purchase order and move forward with the
radio spot because these funds were budgeted.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 46
Mr. Hare stated the need to use common sense. He felt that if $5,000 was to be spent
for two (2) or three (3) members to go to an economic development convention in
Philadelphia and there were funds available in the Mayor’s budget, it could be done.
However, Mr. Hare stated that if there was a contract to sell property at Garrison Oak
for $43M it would need to go to Council. He felt that members know what they can
and cannot do. Mr. Hare felt members should be able to move forward with items
in the Committee’s or Mayor’s budget; however, they should not be able to enter into
a contract of purchase or sale.
Mrs. Townshend noted, for example, that staff receives requests from parties who
state that the costs for downtown development projects are too high and they want
the City to help defray the costs. She felt this would be fine if there was a process;
however, she believed that Council, as elected representatives, should approve this
type of request.
Mr. Koenig suggested that Item #2, Authorize the City Manager to enter into
contracts with respect to economic development on behalf of the City with a majority
vote of its members, be stricken from the Proposed Resolution.
The Committee recommended that Item #2, Authorize the City Manager to enter into
contracts with respect to economic development on behalf of the City with a majority
vote of its members, be stricken from the Proposed Resolution.
The Committee recommended adoption of the Proposed Resolution, as amended.
(City Clerk’s Office Note: During their Regular Meeting of August 22, 2016, Council
adopted Resolution No. 2016-09 Formally Establishing the Economic Development
Committee.)
Economic Development Committee Transition Discussion
Provide an Orientation to the Initiative
Mr. Kirby Hudson, Assistant City Manager, stated that members were trying to
determine what the responsibilities and direction of the Economic Development
Committee would be. Since the Economic Development Office was no longer in
existence, he felt that clarity was needed in regard to the direction and responsibilities
of the Committee. Mrs. Townshend stated that one of the concerns was who will
answer the phone when it rings, and Mr. Hudson questioned who the leader would
be.
Mr. Hudson assumed that Item #1 of the Proposed Resolution, Promote the economic
interests of the City of Dover, formulate recommendations to Council and staff, and
coordinate with staff, other government bodies and institutions, the business
community, and the public on economic development matters, would tell the
Committee what their charge was and answer the question regarding an Orientation
to the Initiative.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 47
Mr. Hare stated that if Mayor Christiansen or a member of the Committee received
a call from IBM stating that they want to build a multi-million dollar complex in the
City, the information should be conveyed to the Committee and discussed during a
meeting. He believed that these issues should be brought not just to a person but to
the Committee.
In response to Mayor Christiansen, Mrs. McDowell explained that the time frame
required to post a special, non-emergency, meeting agenda would be 24 hours.
Mr. Koenig noted that if there were only 24 hours to react to this type of situation,
there would be a special meeting of Council to obtain full authorization.
Mr. Moore asked what would happen if such a call was received and the company
indicated that they wanted the information to remain confidential. Responding,
Mrs. Townshend indicated that an executive session would be scheduled for a
discussion of proprietary information.
Mr. Hare noted that the Committee may decide if this is a matter that needs to go to
Council right away or if there needs to be a Council executive session, and he
reiterated that more than one (1) person would need to know. Mr. Moore stated that
most of the time these entities will not walk these proposals through Council.
Mr. Hare indicated that there would be an executive session.
Mr. Hudson commented that the Economic Development Committee would be
working hand in hand with the Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP) and questioned
if they would be acting separately. Responding, Mrs. Townshend noted that a
representative of the DDP was on the Committee. She stated that this representative
may be the DDP’s executive director rather than Mr. Moore, or it may be that they
would both attend.
Mrs. Townshend stated, for example, that both the City Manager and Assistant City
Manager were currently present. As long as Mr. Koenig was present, Mr. Hudson
would not vote, but he was still present to participate. She indicated that the
Executive Director and the President of the DDP could both be present, but there
would be a need to determine who has the ability to vote.
Mr. Hare indicated that a designee of the DDP was a member of the Committee, so
it would be up to the DDP to decide who would vote. Referring to the Proposed
Resolution, Mr. Hare stated that the members consist of the Mayor, who is the Chair;
the City Manager or the City Manager's designee; the Chair of the Legislative,
Finance, and Administration Committee; a designee of the Downtown Dover
Partnership (DDP); and the City Planner. He pointed out that, technically, if
Mr. Koenig was on the Committee, Mr. Hudson was not, and he felt that Mr. Hudson
should not have been present for an executive session of the Committee.
Responding, Mrs. Townshend advised that key staff can be in an executive session.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 48
Mayor Christiansen noted that Mr. Hudson is a member of senior staff and a
confidential employee, as the Controller/Treasurer and City Clerk are, and stated that
he would want them at the table with members.
Mr. Hare questioned if they would want two (2) people from the DDP for the
Committee. Responding, Mrs. Townshend felt that they would not both attend an
executive session. Mr. Koenig felt that this would depend upon the subject matter.
For example, he felt that if the development of the Garrison Farm was being
discussed, the DDP Board President would be included as a member of the
Committee, but the Executive Director of the DDP would not need to be there.
Mayor Christiansen felt it very important for the DDP to have a presence at the
Economic Development Committee’s table and vice versa, since their mutual goal
was economic development in the City, and that this presence should be someone
that has clout. He stated that jobs, economic development, taxes, and the use of
enterprise funds would be beneficial to both groups.
Review Purpose of Team
Mr. Hudson questioned how members would let it be known that the Economic
Development Committee was in existence. Responding, Mrs. Townshend offered
to raise awareness of the Committee. Mayor Christiansen stated that every bit of
electronic media should be utilized to get the word out, including the websites of the
City, the DDP, the County, and the Chamber of Commerce. He suggested using
cheap advertising and electronic opportunities and establishing a Facebook page.
Mr. Hudson felt it would be beneficial to get a spot on local television and in local
newspapers. He questioned how people would know what the opportunities were
and what the Committee is about if no one was aware of their existence.
Mayor Christiansen suggested taking advantage of Comcast public service
announcements, the Comcast Spotlight, and announcements during Council
meetings.
In regard to the RFP for Garrison Oak Technology Park, Mr. Hare stated there was
a need to let commercial realtors know what is available, noting that their business
is to talk to people every day. Mr. Hare felt the realtors should be advised that they
can contact the Economic Development Committee to be aware of what is
happening, what support is available to them, and to know that their calls will be
returned.
Mr. Moore indicated that members had previously agreed that commercial realtors
would be brought in for a brainstorming session to let them tell members what they
should be doing to aid them, since they would be one of the connectors. Mr. Hare
stated that this should be on the next meeting agenda.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 49
Mrs. Townshend suggested dividing tasks between members so that work is done
between meetings. She concurred with bringing realtors in for a brainstorming
session, but suggested doing some follow-up afterwards and having people tasked to
do certain things. Mrs. Townshend explained that a series of focus groups had been
held at the staff level with the business community before they hiring the LEAN
consultant, and from that came a list of improvements that were needed to processes
in the City code, many of which were made. Mrs. Townshend suggested assigning
people to take the lead on different projects and having them report back to the
Committee.
Mr. Moore asked if this was permissible under the Freedom of Information Act
(FOIA). In response, Mrs. Townshend stated that it was permissible as long as there
was not a quorum of Council or of the Committee members working together.
Mayor Christiansen stated the importance of complying with Robert’s Rules and the
Freedom of Information Act at Committee meetings; however, he indicated that
individual meetings could be held. For example, he stated that Mr. Hudson and
Mr. Moore could meet with commercial realtors; however, there could not be a
meeting of any two (2) members of the Committee, nor a serial meeting, as this
would be a violation of FOIA.
Noting that there were four (4) votes on the Committee, Mrs. Townshend questioned
if there would be a FOIA violation if she and Mr. Moore talked about economic
development. Responding, Mrs. McDowell stated that this would be a violation.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mrs. McDowell explained that the Mayor was a non-voting
member of the Committee, noting that the City’s charter states that the Mayor shall
have no vote on matters involving the City. She advised that the Mayor could chair
the Committee but would have no vote.
Mr. Moore commented that he and the Mayor could have a meeting with realtors.
Mr. Hare stated that he did not believe that they should because Mr. Moore has a
business that deals with commercial realtors and should avoid the perception that he
was promoting his own business. Mr. Moore responded that he felt it would be an
advantage to have people who actually understand it and know the questions to ask
and understand their response.
Mr. Hare stated that he felt that the Mayor should vote or that another member should
be added to the Committee so that there would be five (5) voting members.
Mrs. Townshend suggested amending the resolution so that there would be five (5)
voting members because, from a practical standpoint, there was no way that she
could comply with not talking to Mr. Moore or Mr. Koenig about economic
development. Mr. Hare suggested that another member of Council be included.
Mayor Christiansen suggested considering what direction members should go in
adding another member and consult with the Council President about adding this to
an agenda. Mrs. Townshend stated that Mr. Hare had suggested adding the chair of
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 50
the Utility Committee, noting that the Garrison tract had been an asset to City
utilities.
Mr. Hare moved to recommend that the Chair of the Utility Committee be added to
the Economic Development Committee. The motion was seconded by Mr. Koenig.
Responding to Mr. Moore, Mr. Hare stated that Councilman Cole was currently
serving as Chair of the Utility Committee and that this member of the Economic
Development Committee would always be a Councilperson.
The Committee recommended that the Chair of the Utility Committee be added to
the Economic Development Committee. (City Clerk’s Office Note: During their
Regular Meeting of August 22, 2016, Council approved the Committees’s
recommendation to appoint the Chair of the Utility Committee to serve on the
Economic Development Committee.)
Adopt a Goal/Vision
Responding to Mr. Moore, Mayor Christiansen advised that Mr. Hudson, Assistant
City Manager, was working on the Committee’s goals and would be reporting back
to the Committee.
Mayor Christiansen suggested deferring the following items to allow Mr. Hudson to
provide information seven (7) days prior to the next meeting: Items #2C - Adopt a
Goal/Vision; #2D - Identify Challenges to the Goal/Vision and Develop Strategies;
#2E - Review Team Membership to Determine if Others are Needed to Accomplish
the Goal/Vision; #3A - Identify Meeting Roles; and #3B - Discuss and Adopt Ground
Rules for Future Meetings.
By unanimous consent, Items #2C - Adopt a Goal/Vision; #2D - Identify Challenges
to the Goal/Vision and Develop Strategies; #2E - Review Team Membership to
Determine if Others are Needed to Accomplish the Goal/Vision; #3A - Identify
Meeting Roles; and #3B - Discuss and Adopt Ground Rules for Future Meetings
were deferred.
Mr. Sudler moved to suspend the rules to allow Reverend Rita Mishoe Paige to voice her
concerns regarding economic inclusion related to the Economic Development Committee’s
membership, goals, and visions. The motion was seconded by Mr. Anderson and unanimously
carried.
Reverend Rita Mishoe Paige, 355 Rita Wilma Road advised members that, as she watched the City
Council meeting last month from home, she was disappointed at Council’s decision not to include
two (2) minorities on the Economic Development Committee, and even that this discussion was
necessary in 2016. She indicated that efforts are being made to break down barriers and build
relationships and thought it would be automatic that this and all committees be reflective of the
City’s population. Reverend Paige stated that, while she was a college student in Atlanta, she saw
many African-Americans in key positions and saw the same thing as she transferred to Howard
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 51
University in Washington, D.C., which gave her hope and reinforced that she could be anybody that
she wanted to be. Reverend Paige felt there was a bigger picture here and believed that there was
a need to think about young people who need to see role models when they are considering what they
want to be. She believed that if minorities are included on boards and are made part of the decision-
making process, that would say that they are playing a part in what comes into the City.
Reverend Paige indicated that this would give young people hope to know that they can own
businesses other than beauty and barber shops. She stated that, although she felt there was nothing
wrong with these types of businesses, it seemed to her that this was a lot of what the minority
African-American population owned. Reverend Paige believed the African-American population
needed to see more than that and hoped that this Committee and all committees would be reflective
of that population. She did not think it possible to move forward in building relationships and
breaking down barriers if there is exclusion rather than inclusion.
Setting the Next Agenda and Scheduling the Meeting
Mrs. Townshend questioned if it would make sense to meet at 4:00 p.m. on a day that
the Council Committee of the Whole meets. Responding, Mayor Christiansen felt
that this would make a long day and suggested holding the meetings during the weeks
that there are not Council or Committee meetings.
Mr. Hare indicated that he did not have a problem with meeting on the same day as
the Council Committee of the Whole. He suggested 4:00 p.m. on the days that the
Council Committee of the Whole meets, with meetings to conclude by 5:00 p.m.,
which would allow time for an executive session if needed. Mr. Hare suggested that
a meeting be scheduled for Tuesday September 13, 2016 at 4:00 p.m.
In response to Mrs. McDowell, Mayor Christiansen indicated that members should
plan on meeting twice per month for the time being.
Mrs. Townshend suggested that the standard agenda be reviewed during the Council
President’s agenda meeting.
Mayor Christiansen requested that the Clerk’s Office place these meetings on the
Outlook calendar.
Mr. Sudler moved for acceptance of the Economic Development Committee Report. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried.
MONTHLY REPORTS - JULY 2016
By motion of Mr. Lewis, seconded by Mr. Anderson, the following monthly reports were
accepted by consent agenda:
City Assessor’s Report
City Planner’s Report
Controller/Treasurer’s Budget Report
Fire Chief’s Report
Police Chief’s Report
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 52
2016/17 STAFF APPOINTMENT - CITY COUNCIL - FIRE MARSHAL - JASON A. OSIKA
Mr. Lewis noted that during the Special Council Meeting held earlier in the evening, members
discussed the interview process and protocols for the City. He indicated that he asked several
questions during the Executive Session portion of the meeting and that he had some concerns about
the process. Mr. Lewis stated that he had no objection to the individual recommended for
appointment and thought he was exceptionally qualified; however, Mr. Lewis reiterated that he had
some concerns with the process. He asked that Council President Slavin order that a study be
conducted with respect to the City’s current practices. Responding, Mr. Slavin indicated that this
would be a matter for consideration by the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee. He
explained that the President of Council cannot order anything and that the power is with Council.
Mr. Slavin noted that staff had recommended approval of the appointment of Mr. Jason A. Osika as
Fire Marshal.
Mr. Hare moved for approval of staff’s recommendation to appoint Mr. Jason A. Osika as Fire
Marshal. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hutchison and unanimously carried.
Council President Slavin congratulated Mr. Osika on his appointment.
CLARIFICATION OF COUNCIL ACTION OF AUGUST 8, 2016 - PROPOSAL FOR
DOVER PUBLIC LIBRARY TO ADOPT A SMOKE-FREE POLICY
During their Regular Meeting of August 8, 2016, Council considered a Proposal for Dover Public
Library to Adopt a Smoke-Free Policy. Members accepted the Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee’s recommendation to authorize the City Manager to implement a
smoke-free policy on the campus and grounds of the Dover Public Library, as amended to include
all parks and recs facilities and within 25 feet of City buildings. During their Regular Meeting of
August 22, 2016, members deferred this matter until the return of Council President Slavin.
Mr. Sudler stated that, although he remained in favor of Council’s motion, he wanted to know if
there was anything in the provisions that Council established regarding a special area for certain
employees. In response, Mr. Slavin stated his understanding that the motion that passed stated that
there was no smoking on or in City-owned property.
Mr. Anderson felt that this action went beyond Council’s original position by including parks and
other areas that are not traditionally included in the City’s Code. He questioned if additional
legislation would be required to expand this to parks and non-employees, noting that no penalties
could be enforced for non-employees.
Mr. Nicholas Rodriguez, City Solicitor, stated his understanding that all City-owned properties
would be included.
Mr. Anderson asked how this could be enforced for non-employees, particularly outdoors, because
neither State nor City law would allow the imposition of fines. Responding, Mr. Rodriguez
indicated that he was unsure about the enforcement.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 53
Mr. Slavin stated that the action was not directed at employees nor non-employees but at the activity
of smoking.
Mr. Sudler asked how the State enforces this, believing that when the motion was initially made, it
was to follow the guidelines and enforcement of the State as a means to navigate City enforcement.
In response, Mr. Koenig advised that he had not researched how the State enforces this. His
understanding of Council’s request was that smoking would not be permitted in all real property
owned by the City, including property where the City has a deed, such as parks, City Hall, or the
Library, or in vehicles, and that was the direction that was given. Mr. Koenig’s understanding was
that there was no mechanism to impose fines at the moment, so an ordinance may have to be brought
forward stating that those smoking on City property would be subject to a fine. In his opinion, this
would have to be enforced by the Police Department, since the City does not have staff who can
issue a ticket to either employees or members of the public. Mr. Koenig noted that this ban had been
communicated to employees, but property had not been posted properly at this point, and it would
take some time to post all associated property. He noted that some employees were upset because
no notice was granted to employees. Mr. Koenig reminded members that the original
recommendation was to ban smoking from the Dover Public Library campus, and that motion was
amended on the floor without input from staff or employees. He noted that the City had renters in
at least one (1) property and this ban would be enforced on that property. Mr. Koenig also advised
that the City ownd the property that the U.S. Post Office occupies and would have to notice the Post
Office, unless there was conflicting language in their lease that they would look to as a legal contract
requirement with respect to enforcement. He stated that it would take some time to post the
properties, but the expectation communicated to him was that if it was communicated to everyone
that it is a smoke-free facility or property, the majority of people would obey laws or policies and
this would be a self-regulating issue.
Mr. Hare stated that the original intent was to ban smoking on the Library campus because it was
creating a hazard and a mess. He felt that members went overboard and did not really vet the rest
of the policy and suggested going back to just include the Library. Mr. Hare was in favor of banning
smoking on the Library campus, noting that he had been there today and saw flowerbeds covered
with cigarette butts. He believed it should be determined if this aspect could be handled before
jumping in and messing up something else. Mr. Hare stated this should be vetted or some smoking
areas should be designated because he had received comments from people who now saw City
workers smoking out in the streets near City Hall, and before the ban, it was not even known that
people smoked. Mr. Hare expressed a desire not to go from one extreme to another.
Mr. Hutchison shared some of the same concerns, stating that he had seen people who are not
employees smoking in front of City Hall and noticed this when riding by at night. He questioned if
the current ordinance was effective immediately or if there was a 30-day grace period.
Mr. Koenig stated that there was currently no mechanism to impose fines, so the only thing that
could be done would be to ask someone to stop smoking or leave the property.
Mr. Neil moved to rescind the amendment and go back to the original motion, banning smoking
from within 25 feet of the Library, seconded by Mr. Hare.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 54
Responding to Mr. Slavin, Mrs. Traci McDowell, City Clerk, advised that the recommendation was
to allow the City Manager to institute a non-smoking policy for the entirety of the Library property,
which was then amended to include all City properties.
Mr. Slavin indicated that one (1) motion passed and asked what that motion said. In response,
Mr. Koenig stated that it was for all properties.
Mr. Slavin stated that the only motion that passed was to ban smoking on all properties and there was
no underlying motion that was passed first.
Mr. Neil asked if that motion could be brought to the floor. Responding, Mr. Slavin questioned if
Mr. Neil’s motion was to rescind the smoking ban. Mr. Neil stated that, in essence, he wanted to go
back to the original motion. Mr. Anderson and Mr. Hare stated that it would be the original idea.
Mr. Lewis questioned if Council was going to flip-flop, stating his understanding that this had
already passed.
Mr. Slavin expressed frustration, believing that this was a standard practice across governments in
the United States, hospitals, colleges, and universities. He stated that this is done for health benefits,
not because of the desire to have a pretty drive for those passing City Hall who do not want to see
people smoking. Mr. Slavin indicated that individuals were smoking in front of doors that people
had to walk through to get into the building. He felt that this was a common sense approach to
promoting public health. His opinion was that there was no reason to backslide on a vote that he had
already cast on this issue.
Mr. Sudler stated that he was thinking about the future and youth. He noted that there was a segment
on WBOC that morning where they had a beach clean-up at Ocean City and there were cigarette
butts and people picking up trash. Mr. Sudler believed it would promote a healthier environment.
He understood that a lot of workers were used to smoking near the door and he did not want these
individuals to feel shunned or punished; however, he noted that this affects people like him who
have sarcoidosis, a lung disease. Mr. Sudler felt that he should not have to avoid that door because
there is smoke in the area, since the building is open to him. He felt that another way could have
been found so that these individuals are not shunned; however, he indicated that when riding by the
area you can still see people smoking. Mr. Sudler reiterated that it was for health reasons, rather than
trying to shun or bring people to light and tell them that they are wrong for smoking. He questioned
how much time smokers are missing from their jobs and how many breaks employees take who do
not smoke. Mr. Sudler indicated that there were many ways to look at this issue. From a health
perspective, he felt it was a no-brainer; however, he indicated that he would be all for finding a way
to have a small isolated area for smokers, as a compromise, but not getting rid of Council’s action.
Mr. Anderson advised that he had an issue with the portion that deals with parks and outside areas.
He thought that it was incredible that society is going toward saying that it is okay to smoke
marijuana, but the City is going to flip out on a person who pulls out a cigarette.
In response to Mr. Slavin, Mr. Anderson stated that he was willing to say that it was okay to smoke
cigarettes because it is freedom. Mr. Lewis asked if Mr. Anderson would say that on camera to the
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 55
children who were watching and Mr. Anderson stated that he does not smoke but is okay with those
who do. Mr. Anderson indicated that he was also okay with those who smoke marijuana, stating that
he does not care either way but does not want it done in the City’s buildings. However, he felt that
if this occurred in a park where it would not affect someone else’s health, this was an issue of
freedom. Mr. Anderson noted that smokers pay for the parks as much as anybody else and, as long
as they took the trash with them, he did not see an issue. He did not believe it was enforceable and
because it was unenforceable, a bad idea, and restricts personal freedom, he could not favor it.
Mr. Anderson believed that it should be restricted to City buildings and outside City buildings within
25 feet.
In regard to the environment, Mr. Sudler stated that smoking affects the environment, just like
vehicles that do not pass inspection due to their exhaust. He felt it was not healthy to have smoke
in a public area, and that was why smoking was stopped in restaurants and clubs. Mr. Sudler felt that
there should be no smoking in City of Dover public facilities. He understood that staff was used to
doing certain things and wished there was a way not to spotlight these employees and not
compromise environmental health. Mr. Sudler noted that there are risk factors with smoke in the
environment and secondhand smoke. He stated that he did not see a way to compromise and that
he would support the motion to not have smoking on all City properties.
Mr. Lewis stated that he could not believe that this discussion was being held, stating that he
concurred with Mr. Slavin and Mr. Sudler 100%, stating that this was a public safety issue. He
advised that he works for State government, which had banned smoking, and it had also been banned
in State and federal buildings, as well as most cities in the country, so he was for the ban. Mr. Lewis
indicated that the question was how it could be enforced. He felt following State guidelines would
be the first step. Mr. Lewis stated that the State of Delaware has a tobacco bureau at the Williams
Building that brings out to the public the risk of smoking and he believed that they could be
contacted for enforcement purposes.
Mr. Slavin believed that the enforcement issue would be fleshed out after the signage is ready.
Mr. Slavin advised members that the motion before them was to rescind the smoking ban. He
explained that a “yes” vote would rescind the smoking ban and a “no” vote would leave it in place.
The motion to rescind the smoking ban failed by a roll call vote of five (5) no (Mr. Sudler,
Mr. Lewis, Mr. Cole, Mr. Hosfelt, and Mr. Slavin), and four (4) yes (Mr. Anderson, Mr. Neil,
Mr. Hare, and Mr. Hutchison).
CITY MANAGER’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, advised members that a notice was sent out earlier in the day about
a mechanical failure at the pump station located adjacent to Brandywine Court. He indicated that
staff was working through the issues related to this and working with the State of Delaware
Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) to clear the environmental
impact of that failure. Mr. Koenig indicated that notice had been provided to a number of people
adjacent to this area of the City. He advised members to direct any questions to the Public Works
Department or the City Manager’s Office. Mr. Koenig noted that the infrastructure was back up and
working as required.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 56
COUNCIL MEMBERS’ ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Slavin conveyed belated Happy Birthday wishes to Mayor Christiansen, who celebrated his
birthday on September 4th.
Mr. Anderson stated that the City of Dover Police Department earned the very prestigious
President’s Award at the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
Freedom Banquet for its cooperation with the community on a number of initiatives, ranging from
working with the community to develop a crime strategy, to initiatives to help the youth and restore
the parks. Mr. Anderson indicated that a great community partnership had been recognized and
congratulated the Dover Police Department, stating that it was particularly fitting on the eve of
9/11 to recognize the community efforts that have been made by the Police Department. He also
congratulated all of the other awardees.
Mr. Anderson reminded everyone that the Decision America Tour would be visiting Legislative
Mall on September 13, 2016 at noon. He indicated that this would be a time of prayer led by
Reverend Franklin Graham.
Mr. Anderson stated the need to take a serious look at the land bank legislation that had passed at
Legislative Hall and how it could be applied in Dover to issues of affordable housing
and economic development. Mr. Anderson was unsure of the bill number but stated that
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, was quite familiar
with it.
Mr. Sudler wished his mother and his niece a Happy Birthday.
Mr. Lewis stated the need to recognize all of the victims and families of 9/11, stating that we should
not forget.
Mr. Sudler moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 9:51 p.m.
TRACI A. McDOWELL
CITY CLERK
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2016 PAGE 57
All ordinances, resolutions, motions, and orders adopted by City Council during their Regular
Meeting of September 12, 2016, are hereby approved.
ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
MAYOR
/TM
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\Council-Minutes\2016\09-12-2016 COUNCIL MINUTES - Revised 09-30-2016.wpd
Exhibit
Exhibit #1 - Revised Revenue Policy - Police Extra Duty/Voluntary Overtime
Page 58
EXHIBIT #1
Regular City Council Meeting of 09/12/2016
CITY OF DOVER
REVENUE POLICY
POLICE EXTRA DUTY / VOLUNTARY OVERTIME
I. POLICY
The City of Dover Police Department recognizes the need for individuals and businesses to
have the services of police officers for special events or other functions that would not be part
of routine patrol. The Department will ensure that these needs are met by permitting officers
to work for these employers in their capacity as Dover Police Officers. Additionally, the
Department shall seek to secure grant funding to compensate officers for voluntary patrols in
and around specific areas of the city, supplementing the normal activities of the Department.
II. PURPOSE
It is the purpose of this document to outline the extra duty billing rates and procedures to our
customers and granting agencies.
III. RESPONSIBILITIES
The Special Enforcement Unit Commander will be the Extra Duty Coordinator and will assign
clerical support as well.
The Extra Duty Coordinator shall be responsible for ensuring that all requests conform to this
Procedural Notice, City ordinances, and to oversee compliance with departmental
regulations.
The Chief of Police will determine if an extra duty request is a “must fill” position, due to
safety concerns to the public or to police. When this occurs, and no one has volunteered to
work the position, the Extra Duty Coordinator will be responsible for assigning this extra
duty job to an officer.
The Extra Duty Coordinator will be responsible for determining the adequate number of
officers to staff an event.
In cases where the staffing was underestimated the on-site supervisor or working shift
commander, at an event may, at his discretion, notify the employer and the extra duty
coordinator that additional officers are needed. Regardless of whether or not the employer
was able to be notified, the on-site supervisor may call in additional officers and the
employer will be billed accordingly.
Examples of “Special Events” requiring extra duty assignments include, but are not limited
to, events:
1. That require a City of Dover permit
2. Involve temporary road closures
3. Require right of way closures
4. Bicycle or foot races or walks
5. Active traffic control- where an officer is actively/physically engaged in directing
vehicular or pedestrian traffic
6. Other special events
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Revenue Policy – Police Extra Duty/Voluntary Overtime – Approved 9/12/16 Page 2 of 10
IV. REQUESTS FOR EXTRA DUTY OFFICERS
Any individual or private firm may request extra duty officers for work within the city limits of
Dover. Requests must be received between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:00 pm Monday
through Friday and can be mailed, emailed, faxed or brought in person to the Dover Police
Department. Applications must be received seven (7) days before the event. Any requests
made less than seven (7) days in advance are only processed with the understanding that
the assignment may not be filled. These requests will be directed to the Extra Duty
Coordinator, who will ensure that the requesting party understands the payment and
cancellation procedures.
The Extra Duty Coordinator will try to accommodate any schedule requests made by the
employer if made within one hour prior to the time of the event.
It shall be the responsibility of the Extra Duty Coordinator to review all requests and the work
required. The extra duty request will be denied if:
A. The employment is prohibited by State Law, City Ordinance, or Dover Police Department
Rules & Regulations.
B. The employment presents a potential risk of injury due to the lack of officers being
requested for the assignment.
C. The request requires the officer to act in any capacity other than a law enforcement
official.
D. The final determination of whether a permit is approved rests with the Extra Duty
Coordinator. While efforts will be made to comply with the assignment duties as defined
by the business representatives, the Dover Police Department maintains exclusive rights
in determining the number of officers required in order to maintain a safe environment for
all and dictate placement and duties.
E. On occasion, specific staffing levels and officer placement are influenced by City of Dover
Ordinances and unique circumstances identified by the City of Dover Council regarding
zoning approval for individual establishments and land parcels.
F. Major re-occurring special events within the City of Dover may involve more defined and
detailed staffing and planning processes that may be outlined in a memorandum of
understanding at the discretion of the Chief of Police or his designee. Any separate
agreements must adhere to the requirements of the Extra Duty
Revenue/Voluntary Overtime Policy and all other City of Dover personnel and
financial policies and procedures as promulgated by the City Council, City
Manager, or Controller Treasurer.
V. PAYMENT METHODS
Billing and processing for all extra duty accounts will be handled in accordance with current
City of Dover finance policies.
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Revenue Policy – Police Extra Duty/Voluntary Overtime – Approved 9/12/16 Page 3 of 10
A. Non-Recurring permits
Employers who are using the extra duty services one time, or are determined by the
Extra Duty Coordinator as a high risk customer, must pay for services before the
assignment commences.
Officers can work additional hours with permission granted by the shift commander or
extra duty coordinator. If this should occur, the extra duty employer must pay the
additional charges on the next business day to the Extra Duty Coordinator. To prevent
this, the employer may pay for extra hours and if unused, will be reimbursed.
No officer is allowed to accept monies from an extra duty employer.
B. City Sponsored Events
The cost of police personnel to maintain safety for the actual event, those officers
assigned to traffic and/or crowd control, will be absorbed by the City of Dover.
City sponsored events will be staffed by officers scheduled during the hours of the
event. For events that required additional staffing levels, regular overtime will be
schedule and paid to those officers that actually work overtime.
C. Extra Duty for Non City Sponsored Events
The Extra Duty Coordinator will schedule officers to work non-city sponsored events.
The expense associated with this extra duty will be the responsibility of the event
organizers. The Coordinator may also arrange for additional requests for police
services, such as money escorts or overnight security.
VI. REPORTING PROCEDURES
The officer may elect to go directly to the job site and report to the point of contact identified
on the assignment worksheet. That contact (or his/her designee) will be responsible for
completing the time-on-duty and time-off-duty sections, along with the Extra Duty Employer
section of the assignment worksheet. If the officer elects to do this, he/she must contact the
on-duty Shift Supervisor by telephone to be input into the CAD system.
VII. FAILURE TO APPEAR FOR EXTRA DUTY
An employer, upon realizing that the officer failed to appear, should notify the extra duty
coordinator at (302)- 736-7145 immediately and also call the on duty shift commander at
(302)736-7111.
VIII. CANCELLATIONS OF EXTRA DUTY
A. Extra duty assignments will not be canceled less than one hour prior to the scheduled
start time, except as authorized by a Unit or Division Commander, during regular duty
hours, or after regular duty hours, the On-Call Lieutenant.
B. In the case of a departmental need or community emergency, the Chief of Police or
designee may cancel any extra duties assignments. The extra duty officers would then
be immediately available for service to the department.
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Revenue Policy – Police Extra Duty/Voluntary Overtime – Approved 9/12/16 Page 4 of 10
IX. PROCEDURE FOR CANCELLATIONS OF EXTRA DUTY ASSIGNMENTS
NOTIFICATIONS
A. Cancellations by the extra duty employer should be made at least one hour before the
time the assignment is scheduled to begin. If cancellation is made in less than an hour
(with the exception of a natural disaster) the customer will be charged and the assigned
officers will be paid a minimum of 3 hours as per the FOP Union contract. When an extra
duty assignment is canceled by an extra duty employer the following procedure will be
followed:
1. The person who receives the cancellation notice will document in the extra duty book,
the date and time the cancellation call was received, and they will initial next to this
entry.
2. The person will then notify the officer who had signed up for the extra duty
assignment.
a. This notification will be by leaving the officer a voice mail message stating the
particular extra duty assignment was canceled.
b. If the cancellation notice was received after normal working hours and the
assignment is for the next business day the person receiving the notification will
comply with the above steps but they will also attempt to contact the officer at the
officer’s residence.
3. The person’s initials next to the entry will signify that his person did in fact notify the
officer.
B. When an extra duty assignment is canceled for inclement weather the following
procedure will be followed:
1. The officer who has signed up for the extra duty assignment will be responsible for
contacting the On Duty Supervisor at least one (1) hour prior to the start of the extra
duty assignment. The On Duty Supervisor will make the determination if an extra duty
assignment will be canceled due to inclement weather at this time.
2. If extra duty assignments are going to be canceled due to inclement weather in
advance of the assignment, the officer making the decision to cancel the assignment
will ensure that the officers are notified in advance if possible. (ie: leaving the officer a
message at his residence if possible, if not then a voice mail message)
3. Officers are required to check their voicemail one (1) hour prior to the scheduled start
time of all assignments unless notified previously.
C. A phone message will be left for the Extra Duty Coordinator advising of the cancellation
and that the officer(s) were in fact notified.
D. Some extra duty assignments will be canceled regularly due to inclement weather where
others such as grant-related extra duty assignments are generally not canceled for
inclement weather, unless such weather is severe. Officers are expected to be prepared
to adapt to existing weather conditions.
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Revenue Policy – Police Extra Duty/Voluntary Overtime – Approved 9/12/16 Page 5 of 10
X. DISCONTINUATION OF SERVICE
If the Chief of Police or his designee or the Extra Duty Coordinator, determines that it is in
the best interest of the department to discontinue an extra duty service, the customer
employer will be immediately notified.
XI. BILLING POLICY
A. Billing rates for Fiscal Year 2016 are as indicated in Attachment 4.
B. Officers pay rates for extra duty assignments, regardless of type, are governed by the
Collective Bargaining Agreement.
C. The City of Dover will pay the officers wages as well as pay for worker’s compensation
and general liability insurance, administrative resource costs, automobile fuel,
maintenance and insurance. An overhead rate is added to the contractual Extra Duty
rate to cover these cost.
D. Officers working an extra-duty assignment will be paid a 3-hour minimum. If the
assignment is not canceled according to policy, or if the officer is released from the
assignment less than 3 hours from the start time, he/she will receive three (3) hours pay
at the extra duty rate.
E. If an officer is late to the assignment for any reason, the officer will be paid only for actual
hours worked.
F. Officers are held strictly accountable for their extra duty assignment worksheets, as this
is the source document by which officers are paid. The customer or designee must sign
the worksheet upon completion of the assignment. For large assignments, the customer
must sign the master worksheet that covers all the officers on that assignment. Officers
will be compensated for extra duty assignments during the pay period in which the
worksheet is submitted to payroll.
G. If an officer must work additional hours on an extra duty assignment, the customer is
responsible for payment of the additional costs, as long as the overage is due to the
extra duty assignment and is necessary.
H. At the conclusion of the extra duty assignment, the officer should place the assignment
worksheet in the payroll mailbox, but no later than the officer’s next scheduled workday.
Loss of an extra duty assignment worksheet may result in a delay of payment to the
officer, or may cause the officer to forfeit pay. Reproduction of assignment worksheets
may be done with the approval of the Extra Duty Coordinator. The officer will have sole
responsibility for obtaining the proper signatures/dates/times. All employees working
extra duty are required to submit accurate assignment worksheets. The accuracy of these
assignment sheets is critical in ensuring appropriate employee compensation. The
employee’s signature must match the printed name of the employee assigned the duty.
The editing of extra duty worksheets by the employee is permitted for the purpose of
adding accurate information.
G. Any officer who falsifies any portion of the extra duty assignment worksheet will be subject
to discipline under General Order 26, Code of Conduct.
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Revenue Policy – Police Extra Duty/Voluntary Overtime – Approved 9/12/16 Page 6 of 10
XII. WORKERS’ COMPENSATION/LIABILITY
The City of Dover is self- insured for general liability and statutory workers’
compensation coverage. Police officers assigned to extra duty work are afforded
workers compensation coverage.
XIII. EFFECTIVE DATE
This Procedure shall become effective upon adoption of City Council. Rates will be reviewed
on an annual basis and revised upon Council approval.
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Revenue Policy – Police Extra Duty/Voluntary Overtime – Approved 9/12/16 Page 7 of 10
Attachment 1
NOTICE TO CUSTOMERS
The officers are at all times subject to the policies and procedures of the City of Dover and
the rules and regulations governing employees of the Dover Police Department (DPD). A
customer has no authority over police personnel and is restricted to providing only a general
assignment of duties to be performed by the officer. Those duties never supersede DPD
policy or procedures and employers of the extra duty officers should so be advised. Extra
duty officers remain under the exclusive control of the department and accountable for strict
adherence to departmental rules and regulations. Any conflicting rules of employers of extra
duty officers will be disregarded. The officer shall refuse to perform any duties deemed to
be in conflict with the guidelines established by the Dover Police Department. As determined
by the Department, officers may be recalled from extra duty to on-duty status.
This permit is for Law Enforcement work only and does not exempt customers from obtaining
other necessary permits for this event.
The City of Dover Police Department is NOT obligated to provide extra duty services. A
permit will not be issued to any person, firm, or organization whose offices, members,
business, or operations are questionable or for any event of a potentially compromising
nature. The billing rates quoted are subject to change based on Cost of Service approved
rates at the time the service is rendered.
Dover Police Department officers are NOT permitted to receive cash from customers for any
reason whatsoever.
The undersigned customer agrees, individually and on behalf of the named applicant, to
promptly pay for extra duty services rendered. Further, the undersigned agrees, individually
and on behalf of the named applicant to pay all costs, expenses and attorney’s fees incurred
in the collection of any sums due hereunder.
Paul M. Bernat.
Chief of Police
I have read and understand the “Extra Duty Conditions of Permit” and “Notice To
Customers”
________________________________________________________________
Customer-Individually and as Authorized Representative Date
_____________________________
Federal ID
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Revenue Policy – Police Extra Duty/Voluntary Overtime – Approved 9/12/16 Page 8 of 10
Attachment 2
DOVER POLICE DEPARTMENT
BILLING INFORMATION FORM
TO: CUSTOMER SERVICES
FROM: Dover Police Department Date: 9/15/16
THIS SECTION TO PLEASE BILL AS FOLLOWS
BE COMPLETED BY
THE FINANCE
DEPARTMENT TYPE OF ACCOUNT CODE ACCOUNT NUMBER
VENDOR:
THIS WORK DONE ON:
LOCATION: As Requested
DESCRIPTION OF
SECTION WORK DONE: Police services
# HOURS:
TO BE DETAIL OF CHARGES
LABOR:
COMPLETED
OVERHEAD:
VEHICLE: 0
BY THE
TOTAL BILL:
MAILED PAYMENTS REMIT TO: P.O. Box 475, Dover, DE 19903
OPERATING MANUAL PAYMENT INTRUCTIONS: Take this invoice to the City of Dover Customer Services
Department located at 5 East Reed Street, Dover DE 19901. Only cash, money order or
certified funds payments will be accepted.
DEPARTMENT
AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE
CUSTOMER SERVICES
RECEIVED BY RECEIVED ON
KEYED BY VERIFIED BY
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Revenue Policy – Police Extra Duty/Voluntary Overtime – Approved 9/12/16 Page 9 of 10
Attachment 3
Dover Police Department Extra Duty Request Form
Type of Event:
Number of people attending:
Location of event:
Dates & Times Requested:
Billing Information:
Name:
Address:
Phone #’s: Cell # Work #
Contact person at the event:
Contact person cell #:
Person(s) requesting officer(s):
Signature of requesting person:
The responsible party will be charged a 3-hour minimum (per officer) if the assignment is
not canceled one (1) hour before the assigned start time. If the officer(s) are released from
the assignment less than three (3) hours from the start time, he/she will receive three (3)
hours pay. To cancel an assignment, dial (302) 736-7111.
Official use only, do not write below
Number of officers assigned:
Times officers assigned: to
Approved:
Return this form or fax it to: Special Enforcement Unit Commander.
Fax # (302) 672-1842, any additional questions, dial (302) 736-7145
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Revenue Policy – Police Extra Duty/Voluntary Overtime – Approved 9/12/16 Page 10 of 10
Attachment 4
City of Dover
Officer Extra Duty Billing Rates for Grant Related Events
Grant related events are billed for actual wages and benefits
Officer Extra Duty Billing Rates for Office of Highway Safety Grants
Federal Approved Rate $50.00
City of Dover
Billing Rates for Special Events (Spectators over 5,000)
Officer Total
Billing Overhead Hourly
Rate Rate Rate
Special Event Rate – Officers $62.00 $3.00 $65.00
Special Event Rate – Dispatchers S/T $23.00 $3.00 $26.00
Special Event Rate – Dispatchers O/T $34.00 $3.00 $37.00
City of Dover
Officer Extra Duty Billing Rates for Non-Special Events
Officer Total
Billing Overhead Hourly
Rate Rate Rate
Extra Duty Rate $59.00 $8.00 $67.00
Vehicles Actively Used on Extra Duty Jobs - Hourly Rate $ 16.25