Minutes

PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee Meeting was held on November 10, 2014, at 3:30 p.m. with Chairman Dixon presiding. Members present were Mr. Hutchison, Mr. Anderson, Mr. Caldwell, and Mrs. Horsey (arrived at 3:32 p.m.). Mayor Christiansen was also present. AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS At the request of Mr. Anderson, without objections, members added Item #5 - Public Comments, with Adjournment becoming Item #6. Mr. Hutchison moved for approval of the agenda, as amended, seconded by Mr. Anderson and unanimously carried. First State National Monument - Wayside Planning for The Green Mr. Russ Smith, Superintendent of the First State National Monument, familiarized members with the National Monument, which is Delaware’s first national park. He explained that the First State National Monument was created by President Obama in March 2013 and includes the Woodlawn tract, consisting of 1,100 acres in northern New Castle County; the New Castle Green and Court House; and The Green in Dover. Mr. Smith reviewed a presentation, entitled “Destination Dover - Wayside Planning for The Green,” and noted that The Green was the setting for Delaware’s ratification of the U.S. Constitution. He advised members that it was difficult for visitors to realize that they had arrived at The Green and to recognize its significance. As a result, Mr. Smith stated that it was proposed to install interpretive markers on the main route from the Visitor Center and next to the State House, with a clear view of The Green and in sight of the Golden Fleece Tavern, which would avoid an impact on buildings surrounding The Green. He referred to a map depicting the location of the proposed markers and explained that the First State National Monument had a preservation easement over The Green, was the caretaker of The Green, and did not want to impose on it. Mr. Smith reviewed two (2) proposed Wayside Exhibits (signs) that would create a First State destination point for visitors and interpret The Green and Delaware’s ratification of the U. S. Constitution. Responding to Mr. Caldwell, Mr. Smith stated that the goal would be to direct visitors to the Delaware State Archives and Visitor Center for the First State Heritage Park and assured members that there was adequate parking in the area; therefore, he did not anticipate any concerns from area residents or business owners. At the suggestion of Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Smith agreed to have the proposal reviewed by the Friends of Old Dover to assure the accuracy of the information proposed for the exhibits. Mayor Christiansen noted that improvements had been made to Constitution Place, the area extending from Loockerman Street to Water Street, with the original intention of recognizing the ratification of the U.S. Constitution and suggested that this area also be utilized.

PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING OF NOVEMBER 10, 2014 PAGE 2 Concurring with Mayor Christiansen, Mrs. Horsey indicated that she worked on the 1987 Constitution Place project as a member of the Friends of Old Dover and continues to serve as a member of this organization. She noted that one of the City’s former mayors, who was in office at the time the project was underway, is also a member of the Friends of Old Dover. Mrs. Horsey confirmed that the Friends of Old Dover would be very interested in reviewing the text proposed for the Wayside Exhibits and joining as a partner in this endeavor. Mrs. Horsey moved to recommend approval of the proposed Wayside Exhibits for The First State National Monument, stipulating that there be outreach to the members of the Friends of Old Dover, seconded by Mr. Anderson and unanimously carried. Attack Addiction (Margie Pruett) Members were previously provided documentation entitled “Addiction 101 (from NIH, ‘Letter From the Director,’ by Nora D. Volkow, M.D.)”, and “Addiction Facts from The Science of Addiction: Drugs, Brains, and Behavior”. In addition, they were provided information regarding the Good Samaritan Law, as found on the Attack Addiction website: www.attackaddiction.com. Ms. Margie Pruett, Coach/Director/Chair of the Kent County Chapter of Attack Addiction, advised members how important the City of Dover and Kent County are to her and that, as a lifelong resident, she had seen many changes in these areas, some good and some bad. She noted the huge impact that drugs have had on the community and that, currently, heroin, in particular, was consuming the lives of many young adults who were expected to be the leaders of tomorrow. Ms. Pruett explained the impact addicts have on families, friends, and the community and the difficulty in obtaining much needed help for addicts and the exorbitant expenses involved. Currently, Ms. Pruett stated, there is only one (1) State run detox center in Delaware, which is located in New Castle County and is often filled to capacity. She explained the importance of having a facility available for individuals in need of detoxification when they are ready for help and the ramifications of any delay in this regard. Ms. Pruett advised members of the high cost of help, even for those who have insurance coverage. Ms. Pruett stated that Mr. Michael Delacort, Special Agent in charge of the Drug Enforcement Agency for Delaware and Pennsylvania, had recently indicated that only 30% of those individuals addicted to heroin or opiates ever recover and that a part of the solution is prevention. She advised members that Attack Addiction was founded in an effort to help people by Mr. and Mrs. Keishter, a couple residing in New Castle County, whose son overdosed in 2012 from heroin. As indicated by Mr. Keishter, Ms. Pruett stated that one (1) of the most important missions of Attack Addiction is to remove the stigma of addiction, explaining that addicts are sick people trying to get better, not bad people trying to become good. In addition, she advised members that, during his weekly message on October 3, 2014, Governor Jack Markell discussed ongoing efforts to address drug addiction and its impact on families in Delaware. He stated that “by treating addiction as the disease that it is rather than just as a crime to be punished, we will save lives and we will put more people on the road to recovery that allows them to contribute their talents to our State and this will keep

PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING OF NOVEMBER 10, 2014 PAGE 3 Delaware moving.” As a beginning, Ms. Pruett stated that the Governor had made funds available to build a detox center in Sussex County to serve both Kent and Sussex Counties and, although the center would not be able to accommodate all addicts in these counties, it was a start. Ms. Pruett announced that the Attack Addiction group in New Castle County had invited Kent County to form its own chapter of the group and that the first official meeting was scheduled for November 18, 2014 in Room 220 of the Kent County Levy Court building located on Bay Road in Dover. All those interested were invited to attend. She stated that the Kent County Chapter would have two (2) objectives: 1) to be an educational group; and 2) to serve as advocates. Ms. Pruett advised members of her personal interest in addiction and desire to help. She explained that, although he was raised in a middle class family by a father who was very attentive and a participant in his son’s activities, such as Little League, and a mother who was very supportive and encouraging, her grandson is a heroin addict. She noted that her grandson attended Sunday school and church regularly, had the love and support of his extended family, including four (4) grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, who could be thought of as a “model family”. Ms. Pruett stated that one day he made the choice to use heroin and, because of that choice, his life and his whole family would be impacted forever. Mr. Anderson thanked Ms. Pruett for contributing to a very important discussion and questioned what the City could do to encourage the attraction and expansion of treatment in Kent County. He noted that he was familiar with the waiting list for a detox facility and indicated that some were being forced to go out of state to find such a facility. Responding, Ms. Pruett stated that a presentation was also made to Kent County Levy Court in hopes that they may also take action to address these needs. In an effort to bring a rehabilitation center to Kent County, she suggested the possibility of partnering with Bayhealth Medical Center to set aside a section of that facility to serve as a rehabilitation center. Ms. Pruett explained the exorbitant costs of providing rehabilitation services, noting that she knew of a family with outstanding health care insurance who spent over $100,000 beyond what their insurance had paid for rehabilitation services. She advised members that some individuals had lost their homes because they used every resource they had to save their child’s life from the disease of addiction. Mr. Hutchison stated that the most important issue in dealing with drug addiction begins with education. He felt that the State of Delaware, working with the school system and local municipalities, could assist with education, explaining that most of those who become drug addicts do so as a result of peer pressure, since they consider drugs a recreational opportunity, which is a tragedy. Having served 25 years in law enforcement, Mr. Hutchison stated that he had witnessed the effects of drugs on individuals, as well as their family members and the community. He reiterated that the State of Delaware could do a better job with education and the creation of facilities to assist addicts. Mr. Bernard Miller advised members that he operates a program called Dog Pound Boxing Club for the youth in the community for the reasons mentioned by Ms. Pruett. As a recovered addict, he expressed his belief in prevention, explaining his feeling that once an individual becomes addicted,

PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING OF NOVEMBER 10, 2014 PAGE 4 it’s too late. Mr. Miller stressed the importance of working with the youth and teaching them about self-worth and the effects of positive action and “belonging”. Mr. Dixon thanked Ms. Pruett for providing members with information regarding this matter and requested that she bring forward any suggestions or additional information that may be further considered by the City. Proposed Amendment to the 2014 Community Development Action Plan Mrs. Tracey Harvey, Planner I, reviewed a request to amend the 2014 Action Plan to reallocate $3,931.76 from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding awarded to the City from the Delaware State Housing Authority to the Homeownership Assistance Program. She stated that the amount represented the balance in the City’s line of credit that was not drawn down before the City became an Entitlement Community, thus, receiving its own allocation directly. Ms. Harvey explained that approval of staff’s request would reallocate the funding to the Homeownership Assistance Program, due to the high demand for homeownership assistance to afford first time homebuyers the opportunity to purchase affordable housing in the City. In addition, she noted that the additional funding could not be distributed to any of the remaining FY14 projects due to cap requirements and exceeding grant requests. Mrs. Harvey stated that the Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing and the National Council on Life and Labor Research (NCALL) were public service activities that could not exceed the 15% cap required by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations and that the Elizabeth Murphey School could not receive additional funding that would exceed their original grant request. Therefore, since the Homeownership Assistance Program was eligible to receive additional funding, staff requested authorization to reallocate the remaining funds to this program. Mrs. Harvey stated that, as of Friday, November 7, 2014, 60% of the funds had been drawn from the Homeownership Assistance Program. Staff recommended awarding $3,931.76 in CDBG funding to provide additional funding for the FY2014 Homeownership Assistance Program. Mr. Anderson questioned the status of the home repair for the Milford Housing Development Corporation (MHDC). Responding, Mrs. Harvey stated that the program was funded in FY 13; however, since certain time limit standards were not being met, it was not funded in FY 14 and the additional funding was reallocated to the Homeownership Assistance Program. She noted that the Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for next year would be sent out in January 2015. Mr. Hutchison recommended amending the 2014 Action Plan to reallocate $3,931.76 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to provide additional funding for the FY2014 Homeownership Assistance Program, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Mr. Anderson and unanimously carried.

PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING OF NOVEMBER 10, 2014 PAGE 5 UPDATE - CDBG PROGRAM Mrs. Tracey Harvey, Planner I, reviewed the status of FY2014 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Projects - November 2014. Members were previously provided with a table depicting the status of the program funds spent for FY2014. Mrs. Harvey announced that on Wednesday, November 12, 2014, at 5:30 p.m. at the Dover Public Library, staff would be conducting the first public hearing for the FY2015 City of Dover Consolidated Plan to determine the needs of the community. Responding to Mr. Anderson regarding how those interested could receive information and provide input on community needs, Mrs. Harvey stated that a Housing and Community Needs Survey was available on the City’s website and could be completed by those interested. She noted that the public hearing would be open to everyone and additional workshops were scheduled for later in the year. Update - Recreation Needs Assessment Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, advised members that staff was in the process of gathering the data obtained from over 500 surveys received (both online and paper) in response to the Recreation Needs Assessment. Once compiled and reviewed, she stated that recommendations would be developed and she hoped to have a solid draft to present to members in December 2014. Mr. Dixon relayed his appreciation to staff for their work on this project and explained the importance of providing positive activities, particularly for the youth in the community. Understanding that there was a need for funds to provide such activities, he noted that there were many in the community that would not be able to pay and requested that this be considered. Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that Mr. Steve Pickering, City Sports Coordinator, met with Dr. Michael Thomas, Superintendent of the Capital School District, to discuss the possibility of working with school counselors regarding youth basketball leagues. She explained that the idea would be for counselors to refer one (1) to two (2) families per school for significant fee reduction. Mrs. Townshend indicated the importance of having some type of fee, such as $10, which should be manageable, since it would demonstrate a commitment. She stated that staff also recently discussed the possibility of a multi-child discount, although this could not be instituted for the upcoming basketball leagues since some registrations had already been received and it was felt that such a change could not occur midway through the process. Mrs. Townshend explained that a multi-child discount was already offered for the City’s camps and provided relief to those families with multiple children. In addition, she advised members that the YMCA has a program where no one is turned away for a membership; however, participants are required to provide a substantial amount of information. Mrs. Townshend explained that it was important that the City not to take on more than can be handled; therefore, she has had discussions with the YMCA to understand their process for possible implementation for the City. Mrs. Townshend advised members that surveys received clearly indicated that the vast majority of those who completed surveys, including those residing both inside and outside the City, felt that non-residents should pay a higher fee than City residents. As a result, staff had been discussing some

PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING OF NOVEMBER 10, 2014 PAGE 6 type of non-resident surcharge. She stated that if the City were able to discount programs, this would be offset by asking those who are not paying City tax dollars to pay more to help support those costs. Referring to recreation needs, Mr. Anderson stated that several constituents had relayed concerns regarding the Boys and Girls Club moving. Having many questions and concerns, he questioned the possibility of members of Council organizing some type of workshop where staff could participate by responding to their questions and concerns. Responding, Mrs. Townshend suggested that such a workshop be held in conjunction with the Boys and Girls Club. She advised members that although the Boys and Girls Club would be moving, they would remain in the area and it was her understanding that they planned to make transportation available. Public Comments Mr. Bernard Miller provided members a brochure regarding the Dog Pound Boxing Club (Attachment #1). He advised members that since he moved into Capital Park in 2005, he had been concerned about activities in the neighborhood. As an ex-professional fighter, he converted his garage into a little gym for the neighborhood kids, teaching them boxing techniques and offering refreshments. Mr. Miller stated that, initially, there were up to 15 children in his garage while drug dealers were working the streets in his neighborhood. He stated that his garage became a magnet for the children and was utilized for a year. Later, as a member of the South Side Baptist Church, Mr. Miller was permitted to utilize their building for this purpose and, as a result, the program expanded. He advised members that two (2) of the children he helped get “off the street” are now professional boxers: 1) John Bowman, who has an 8-0 record and will be competing at the Chase Center on November 21, 2014 and; 2) Lamont Singletary, who has a 7-1 record. In addition to boys, Mr. Miller stated that he was introduced to a female in trouble who was made to join the Club. During her time with the Club, he trained her and she had since become the Pennsylvania State Golden Glove Champion. Mr. Miller explained the importance of “preventive maintenance” and offering a variety of activities. He stated that his desire to help the youth came after his son passed away at 19 years of age from muscular dystrophy. Taking all his assets, he invested in USA Boxing and now rents a building in Bryan Business Park and offers this program free of charge. Due to the incidents occurring in the streets, Mr. Miller opened it up to younger children (5-6 year olds) and found that these children love attention and incentives. As a result of the success of the program, and with the assistance of former State Representative Donna Stone, Mr. Miller stated that he is now able to receive funds for financial assistance (through the Cen-Del Foundation). He requested the City to provide aid in obtaining financial assistance, noting that he would not be able to continue the operation without help in this regard. Referring to the brochure provided to members, Mr. Miller stated that Councilwoman Williams, through Aid in Dover, assisted in its preparation. He suggested that members visit the facility to witness the assistance provided and the effect it has on the youth. Mr. Miller again indicated that he would appreciate assistance to allow for the program to continue and help the youth in the community.

PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING OF NOVEMBER 10, 2014 PAGE 7 Mr. Anderson stated his appreciation for the work provided by Mr. Miller and noted its importance to the community. He questioned how long the fund with the Cen-Del Foundation had been open. Responding, Mr. Miller stated that it was opened in June/July 2014 and that one (1) donation, in the amount of $100, had been received thus far. Mr. Anderson suggested the possibility of CDBG funding and that further discussions regarding this take place at a later time. Mr. Hutchison moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Anderson and unanimously carried. Meeting adjourned at 4:32 p.m. Wallace R. Dixon Chairman WRD/JG/mk/js/dd/tm S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\Committee-Minutes\2014\11-10-2014 PR&CE.wpd Attachments Attachment #1 - Brochure - Dog Pound Boxing Club

ATTACHMENT #1 PR&CE Committee Meeting of 11/10/2014