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REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular Council Meeting was held on April 24, 2017 at 7:38 p.m. with Council President Slavin
presiding. Council members present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Neil, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Cole, Mr. Hare,
and Mr. Hutchison. Mr. Sudler was absent.
Council staff members present were Deputy Police Chief Mailey, Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Hugg, Fire
Chief Carey, City Solicitor Rodriguez, and Mrs. McDowell. Mayor Christiansen was also present
(departed at 8:14 p.m.).
OPEN FORUM
The Open Forum was held at 7:00 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.
Mr. Steven French stated that the homeless need homes and it was time to do something about this.
He noted that the library and other places were open and could be used as homes for people until
they get jobs.
Mr. Phil McDonald, Sr., 907 Townsend Boulevard, advised that on October 1, 2017, he will have
been at his address for 37 years. He expressed concern about drug traffic on Townsend Boulevard
and Nimitz Road, from one end to the other, starting at the U.S. Gas Station, and noted that he had
personally seen this and brought it to the attention of members of Council in the past, including
Mr. Hutchison, Mr. Cole, and Mr. Neil. Mr. McDonald stated that there were problems at 613 and
616 Nimitz Road. He indicated that the property at 890 Townsend Boulevard had not been inhabited
for a while and its condition was ridiculous and was affecting his property. Mr. McDonald stated
that he pays his taxes and bills on time, does not have criminality in his house or with his family, had
worked all his life, and does the very best he can to live with neighbors. He advised that the biggest
problem he had experienced was with the property at 613 Nimitz and noted that a felon from this
property had been in Mr. McDonald’s yard on one (1) occasion. Mr. McDonald questioned when
the City police or those running the City’s drug operation would do something on Townsend
Boulevard.
Mr. McDonald also expressed concern about the possibility of selling the City’s power generation,
stating that he had discussed this with members of Council. He explained that the money that comes
from those who buy power from Dover goes into the General Fund and is used for many things that
people are unaware of. Mr. McDonald advised that these funds subsidize the citizens and asked
members not to vote to sell power generation.
Mr. Steven Hall stated that he was present on behalf of the homeless, noting that when he spoke to
members regarding this issue previously he was dealing with a lot of emotionalism, and noted that
he had overcome an emotional breakdown because of homelessness. He advised that he was in a
meeting this week where an individual informed him that there were processes underway, and this
gave him hope. Mr. Hall indicated that they had come to many meetings to let members know how
important it is for the homeless to have a home and expressed thanks for each of those opportunities
to come before Council, stating that they had survived the winter. He indicated that he had been told
that members were thinking about this issue and meetings were underway, and he stated his hope
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 2
that he would be able to sit on the couch, drink iced tea, watch sports on Saturday, and enjoy the
luxuries of his home. Mr. Hall expressed his understanding that members’ hands were tied;
however, he stated that he had faith in them and believed the process was about to end.
Ms. Katrina Stubbs stated that she is in temporary housing and had a contingent offer of a full-time,
permanent position; however, there were other homeless ladies who are unable to get into a shelter
or low-income housing. She advised that although tiny houses might not end homelessness, they
would at least be a solution for individuals like herself, who are not able to get into low-income
housing or shelters. Ms. Stubbs asked members to look into resources to help with tiny homes.
Mr. Eric Abernathy stated that he was present to advocate for the homeless and that, since they first
started coming to meetings, he had been watching facial expressions and seeing caring and concern,
and he knew that God was changing hearts. He stated that when they first started coming they were
rejected and no one wanted to hear what they had to say; however, this had changed because God
was in control, was changing hearts and minds, and had taken a hand in things. Mr. Abernathy
stated that homelessness in the State of Delaware must be eliminated and that folks should be
homeless only because they want to and not because they have to.
Pastor Aaron Appling concurred with Mr. Abernathy, noting that Mr. Abernathy is a retired veteran.
In response to Pastor Appling, Mr. Abernathy stated that he is 65 years old. Pastor Appling informed
members that Mr. Abernathy works seven (7) days per week in the City for free and is a hero of the
City. He noted that he and Mr. Abernathy scramble to get gas money so they can pick people up and
bring them out, and he commended Mr. Abernathy and others who work in the City. He advised
members that “Hope deferred makes the heart sick,” and that there was a lot of good conversation
and excitement among people on the streets, which was giving life to those without a home, shelter,
or anything to lean on or grasp hold of for the future. Pastor Appling indicated that if due diligence
is not used to get something accomplished and the homeless are back on the streets again with no
hope, there could be a strong backlash in the opposite direction. He advised that homelessness can
be ended in the State if homes are built for people at affordable rates.
Pastor Appling also advised that a 19-year-old young black man from his church was pulled over and
had 18 grams of marijuana on him, which he stated was a legal amount. He stated that this
individual should have received a citation but was put in jail, and they tried to put distribution
charges on him. Pastor Appling noted that if the law says that a person can have a legal amount of
marijuana on them and young men are being arrested in our city, especially black and brown men,
this would be unjust and not right, and they would start stepping up and saying something about it.
Pastor Appling informed members that he had been a victim of the war on drugs and had a three-and-
a-half-year sentence when he was 19 years old because of mandatory minimums for a quarter ounce
of marijuana, which almost ruined his life. He noted that he was effective today in the City and State
and questioned how many young men's lives would continue to be ruined because of the need to
make a check mark in a quota of drug arrests. Pastor Appling encouraged members to see that the
law is fairly administered.
Mr. Corey Berry stated that the last time he was present he spoke about the Constitution and he was
once again speaking for everyone. He advised that he was at the unemployment office on the
seventh of this month and he noted that there are significant barriers to employment for those who
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 3
are members of the armed forces in transition; those who are special, disabled, or homeless; those
who are recently separated and unemployed for 27 or more weeks; offenders or those currently
released from incarceration; those with no high school diploma or GED; those who are low income,
spouses or other caregivers of wounded, ill, or injured family members, or those who are18 to 24
years of age. Mr. Berry stated that he was glad that he serves a higher God and that this did not apply
to him. He explained that he is homeless but was thankful to have acquired two (2) part-time jobs
and he stated that he wondered why the rules does not allow for change.
Mr. Charles Jones stated that he was present with the church and explained that God had given each
of us a soul and noted that those who think they are damned or suicidal should realize that they have
a soul inside that is gifted by God. He explained that an agency called Resources for Human
Development (RHD) placed him in an apartment in Towne Point when he first moved to Dover, and
he was informed that the previous occupant had been smearing feces on the walls. Mr. Jones
discovered immediately that he had been placed with a roommate who was a drug addict and brought
drug addicts into their home, and he stated that RHD did not act when Mr. Jones informed them that
there was a drug dealer living for months with another RHD patient in an apartment above him. He
stated that they would not let him have a pet or allow a woman to live with him, although pets are
allowed for non-disabled people in Towne Point. Mr. Jones indicated that they would not give him
a key to the laundry room, he cleaned his clothes in the bathtub and smelled of mildew, and he tried
to remain clean but could not. He stated that he was no longer living there; however, they would not
give him a statement of his bank account and they control his money. Mr. Jones advised that they
say that he is incompetent to drive a car, although he feels that he is perfectly competent, and that
he is homeless and eats food out of a can.
Ms. Sherri Bailey, Wilmington, Delaware, stated that she was present on behalf of her mother,
Ms. Betty Stevenson, in regard to her home on South Lakeview Drive. She indicated that they were
very much in support of the Evaluation of Bids - South Lakeview Drive Drainage Improvement
Project scheduled for consideration later in the evening. Ms. Bailey stated that there had been a
long-term flooding problem since the mid-1980's that had grown worse every year. She explained
that water floods the end of Lakeview Drive and had done a great deal of damage and erosion to their
family's property and the property next door. Ms. Bailey noted that water had come across the yard
as far as the house at times and expressed concern about additional damage that might be caused to
the foundation. She advised that her mother had been in constant touch with the City over many
years, and she herself became involved in 2013. Ms. Bailey thanked Mr. Scott Koenig, former City
Manager, as well as Mr. Jason Lyon, Water/Wastewater Manager, and Mr. Winter Wong, Civil
Engineer, Public Works Department, for their work and effort toward solving this issue. She also
expressed appreciation for the help and direction of former City Council members Mr. David Bonar
and Mr. Sean Lynn. Ms. Bailey urged Council to approve the bid before them tonight, noting that
it had been nearly 32 years and they would like to see the problem solved.
Ms. Sue Harris stated that they would continue to come and visit Council week after week, month
after month, trying to offer information, ideas, suggestions, and help, noting that they were still
exactly where they were nine (9) months ago, except for the work that Victory Church had been
doing. She indicated that the appointment of a blue-ribbon panel appeared to be a great step in the
right direction, but until a plan was proposed and accepted by this body, they were still exactly where
they were. Ms. Harris advised that Port Hope and Victory Church were invited to the Penn’s
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Landing area of Philadelphia about a month ago to speak to a youth group on homelessness and tiny
house villages, as well as Sussex County, and it was embarrassing trying to explain to other people,
states, and municipalities that their own City Council was not supporting their efforts. Ms. Harris
indicated that a few weeks ago a large group came from North or South Carolina to help Victory
Church to feed the homeless of Dover for a week. Ms. Harris commented that it was sad that Pastor
Appling travels to the Philippines to help feed and care for the poor as mission work, and another
group comes to feed the homeless in Dover, Delaware. She noted that the United Nations’ Feed the
Children program had even acknowledged the efforts of Victory Church.
Ms. Harris stated that the Diamond State Community Land Trust and a group of 50 individuals were
awarded $750,000 in 2012 from Sussex County due to discriminatory housing practices. She
indicated that those in that area did not like the kind of people being proposed for an affordable
housing project and the County agreed with them but lost and, as a result, the Diamond State
Community Land Trust and the 50 individuals got the affordable housing project as well as
$750,000. Ms. Harris stated that attempts to house people who, for the most part, are considered
handicapped by the Fair Housing Amendment Act of 1988 and the American Disabilities Act (ADA)
is protected by federal statute, and the right for churches to feed and shelter people is protected by
the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act. She indicated that they continue to walk
a passive and cooperative path in the hopes that they will never have to take other paths. She
expressed her wish that everyone present would think more about how to cooperatively work
together to get something done, instead of trying to figure out a way to stop them. Ms. Harris
advised that she had been asked to be on the blue-ribbon panel and would be present as part of this
panel on the following day at the Dover Public Library to present tiny houses and to answer
questions. She invited everybody to come, listen to what is said, and ask questions.
Mr. Jonathan Tyler stated that he and his girlfriend had been homeless for some time, were not in
a shelter, and were denied hotel vouchers because they have no kids and are not disabled. He
indicated that they qualified for the assessment for rapid rehousing when they were in a shelter;
however, it had been about three (3) months and they had not heard anything, and he questioned how
long they needed to wait for a third party to help them obtain a place to stay. Mr. Tyler noted that
he was willing and ready to work but needed help with obtaining housing.
Ms. Cynthia Quevedo informed members that she is homeless and was 100% behind everyone who
had spoken. She stated that something must be done before summer because there would be
problems and more homeless people on the streets.
The invocation was given by Bishop Holsey, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Hutchison moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously
carried.
Mr. Hare moved for approval of the Consent Agenda, seconded by Mr. Lewis and carried by
a unanimous roll call vote (Mr. Sudler absent).
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 5
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 10, 2017
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of April 10, 2017 were unanimously approved
by motion of Mr. Hare, seconded by Mr. Lewis and bore the written approval of
Mayor Christiansen.
PRESENTATION - CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION - MEMBERS OF COFFEE FOR
CHANGE - MIDNIGHT ROAST COFFEE SHOP - WESLEY COLLEGE CENTER
The City Clerk Read the following Certificate of Recognition into the record:
CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION
presented to
the Members of Coffee for Change
In January 2017, the vision of a student organization known as “Coffee for Change” came to fruition
when the Midnight Roast Coffee Shop opened its doors in the basement of the Faculty Lounge in
the Wesley College Center. Profits from the sale of low-cost beverages have been turned into
donations to organizations that help the underprivileged in the greater Dover area, including Central
Delaware Habitat for Humanity, Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing, and The Shepherd Place.
The City of Dover commends the following students, who spearheaded this initiative, for their
commitment to making a difference by giving back to the community:
Ed Brandenburg Kenny Ciccoli Kelsey Fitzpatrick Betty Lee Austin Luna
The City of Dover also recognizes all members of the Wesley College faculty, administration, and
community who supported the students in implementing this innovative approach to public service,
including the following individuals:
Wanda Anderson Dr. Angela D’Antonio Kevin Hartley
Dr. Jack Barnhardt Chris Dixon Stephanie Mackara
Walt Beaupre Howard Flamm Frankie Martin
Paul Copeland Professor Victor Greto Kristian Neal
Mike Dacko Jessica Hansen
April 24, 2017
Mayor Christiansen expressed appreciation for Wesley College as an institution of higher learning
and for its efforts and generosity in helping those in need in the City.
President Robert Clark II, Wesley College, thanked the Mayor, Council, and the collective members
of the Wesley College family who were present and who were representative of all aspects of the
Dover community. He expressed pride in his students, faculty, and staff, noting that this was just
a small indication of the positive change that can happen when people come together.
President Clark advised that the things that happened at the campus were initiated by students and
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 6
benefit not only the college but the community. He thanked the City of Dover for recognizing
Wesley’s worth, which was reflected in their students, faculty, and staff.
PRESENTATION - MAYOR'S SELECTION FOR THE JEFFERSON AWARDS LEAD360
CHALLENGE
Mayor Christiansen advised that earlier in the day he attended a luncheon for the Jefferson
Foundation, which was founded by Sam Beard and a number of others and honors young people who
had given back to the State. He stated that, over the last 45 years, millions of hours and dollars had
been given to the community on behalf of these young people and the people who went before them.
Mr. Kenny Monroe stated that he is a sophomore at the University of Dover studying
entrepreneurship and innovative technology and is also an intern for the Jefferson Awards
Foundation. He reviewed a presentation, entitled, “LEAD360 Awards Ceremony,” (Exhibit #1)
explaining that LEAD360 is one (1) of the largest youth service contests in America and offers an
opportunity for young people to get involved and positively impact their communities. Mr. Monroe
stated that this year seven (7) Delaware mayors promoted LEAD360 in their cities, and he expressed
thanks to Dover for participating.
Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Monroe, Ms. Mallory Stratton, and Ms. Michele Fidance
presented awards, as follows:
Alex’s Lemonade Stand
Reagan and Payton Garnsey who hosted Alex's Lemonade Stand for the past six (6)
years and all and collected funds to be donated to benefit children with cancer.
Caesar Rodney High School - Jobs for Delaware Graduates (JDG) Positive Post-it
Notes
Mr. Monroe noted that representatives from this organization were unable to attend.
Aspira & Spanish Club at Dover High - Help Haiti
Aspira and Spanish Club students at Dover High School helped to relieve the
suffering of those in Haiti by collecting cans of food, clothes, shoes, and personal
items to be donated.
Positive Outcomes Charter School JDG - Canned Food Drive
Students at Positive Outcomes Charter School collected over 500 pounds of food to
help out the less fortunate over the holiday season.
Positive Outcomes JDG, Smyrna Middle School JDG, Chipman Middle School
JDG, and Milford Central Academy JDG - Parks & Community Clean Up
Students from four (4) JDG middle school programs came together to give back to
a nature preserve. Despite the frigid temperatures, students joined together to save
wildlife trapped in the middle, restore historic buildings, and remove invasive plants.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 7
Landon Bailey - iMove and iGive
The iMove program makes an impact on younger individuals in inner-city schools
every spring semester through mentorship. As a result of the program, 10 young men
successfully passed the sixth and seventh grades, while increasing their drive for
service and leadership in the community and at home. The iGive program is a
clothing drive that collected dress socks, ties, and belts for men in need of
professional clothing who cannot afford them on their own.
The Holy Cross Knitting Club
The Holy Cross Knitting Club is an organization of students in first through eighth
grades who made hats for cancer patients, overseas military personnel, and many
other deserving individuals. Since the group formed, over 1,850 hats have been
hand-made.
Lift2Africa
Lift2Africa was selected by Mayor Christiansen as this year’s top project and
impacted over 500 children in Cameroon. Because of Lift2Africa’s contribution,
King's Way International College in Cameroon had over 500 books to add to their
new library.
Mr. Monroe noted that there were over nine (9) LEAD360 projects for the City of Dover, with a total
financial impact of more than $110,000. He thanked all organizations across Delaware who were
2016 Phase 2 activation participants and recognized two (2) groups from Dover, noting that Martina
Duffy and her volunteers packed 20 backpacks of toiletries that were donated to People's Place, and
William Henry Middle School’s Stars Program was a Delaware winner for the maximum impact for
the Teddy-Grams for Troops project. He thanked University of Delaware Parking Services, the
William Henry Middle School Stars Program, and Seaford High School JDG for going above and
beyond to activate last year's winning service projects. Mr. Monroe also commended Emma’s Art
Cart project to provide art supplies for kids on every floor of every hospital, Ronald McDonald
house, community center, family homeless shelter, or afterschool care program. He explained that,
as a young cancer patient, Emma found that art therapy helped her heal through chemotherapy,
radiation, and brain surgery and that nothing gave her more joy than giving art supplies to other kids
inside and outside hospitals. Mr. Monroe advised that Emma’s project was chosen in February from
5,000 projects and ideas submitted during their social media contest. He encouraged everyone
around the State of Delaware to activate this project for maximum impact during 2017. Mr. Monroe
stated that awards will be given out in 2018 to those who have the largest impact in their community
and suggested that those who plan to activate Emma’s Art Cart contact Ms. Michelle Fidance or
Ms. Mallory Stratton to obtain easy, step-by-step guidance for the project.
Mr. Monroe invited community members of all ages to participate in this national service movement
and to visit the LEAD360 website to learn more about how to get involved. He noted that they
would track the collective impact of the project over the course of the year, and those who make the
largest impact will be given a Jefferson Award. Mr. Monroe thanked everyone for coming and
Mayor Christiansen for supporting the challenge.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 8
PRESENTATION - CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN
FINANCIAL REPORTING - COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT FOR
THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2016
The Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in
Financial Reporting was awarded to the City of Dover for the Comprehensive Annual Financial
Report for the Fiscal Year ended June 30, 2016. Mayor Christiansen and Mr. Hare presented
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Acting City Manager, with the Certificate, and Mayor Christiansen expressed
pride in this accomplishment.
Mrs. Mitchell thanked everyone for the recognition, noting that this was the 32nd consecutive year
that this award was received by the City of Dover, which was initially received during her first tenure
in the Finance Department from 1978 to 1989. She stated that she was proud of the Finance
Department staff, noting that Mrs. Tracy Lisiecki, Financial Reporting & Accounting Manager, leads
this effort and staff puts in a lot of hard work to achieve this award each year.
PROCLAMATION - MILITARY SPOUSE APPRECIATION DAY
The City Clerk read the following Proclamation into the record:
WHEREAS, it is through the strength and resilience of our military spouses that our troops willingly
accept their mission to serve and protect our country and loved ones, knowing that the relentless
courage of their spouses will prevail, and that the prayers of their spouses and all of their supporters
will help them get through the darkest of times; and
WHEREAS, military spouses must endure hardships resulting from separation from their loved
ones, including the added responsibilities of maintaining home and family and stress from not
knowing the fate of the troops overseas. Military spouses should be applauded for their continued
support and patriotism while the difficulties they face show no mercy and do not discriminate among
ranks; and
WHEREAS, former President Ronald Reagan established Military Spouse Appreciation Day in
1984 and U.S. Secretary of Defense Casper Weinberger established the Friday before Mother's Day
as a nationally recognized day of observance of the powerful difference spouses make in the lives
of our service members.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF DOVER,
DELAWARE, do hereby proclaim May 12, 2017 as MILITARY SPOUSE APPRECIATION
DAY in the City of Dover and encourage all citizens to be cognizant of the plight of military spouses
and show support by offering friendship, empathy, and understanding, realizing that they are making
daily sacrifices for their country.
Mayor Christiansen advised that the tradition of a military spouse goes back to the French and Indian
War, through the Revolution, War of 1812, Civil War, World Wars I and II, Spanish-American War,
and all the other conflicts defending the freedoms and liberties of this country. He stated that the
military spouses and their children are the unsung heroes who kept the home fires burning and
expressed appreciation for their contributions.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 9
Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Hare, and Mr. Anderson recognized Colonel Doug Hall and Mr. Rob Hall;
Tech Sergeant Justin Gann and Mrs. Kendall Gann; and Captain Ricardo Morales and
Mrs. Kristen Morales for their service.
Colonel Doug Hall stated that spouses are truly airmen who do not receive recognition with uniforms
or medals. He stated that the U.S. is a great nation that has an amazing military, and it is the
significant bedrock of support that makes the military so great. On behalf of all the mission partners
that call Dover and Dover Air Force Base home, he expressed thanks for honoring military spouses.
Colonel Hall stated that he and his husband had loved their time in the City of Dover, noting that
Dover had opened its arms on every occasion to support them, and he stated his thanks for every
airman, including active duty, reserves, partners, and National Guard brothers in the Army and Air
Force in Delaware.
Councilman Hare stated that the Delaware Military Support Organization supports the needs of all
men and women serving on active duty in Delaware, regardless of the branch of service. He
indicated that once he found out that a little girl had asked for a Barbie doll for Christmas and that
her mother, whose husband had been deployed, could not afford it, he decided that he would not let
that happen again. Mr. Hare explained that when the organization’s 501(c)(3) status was approved,
their first donation was to the Military Spouses Organization, and quite a few spouses had been
helped since then. He noted that their annual fundraiser was scheduled for next Saturday and invited
everyone to come. Mr. Hare advised that items would be auctioned, there would be free food, and
a letter of appreciation written by a spouse would be read.
Councilman Anderson noted that those who are at home also serve, stating that he was glad the City
of Dover was recognizing those who are serving in a very important way.
Mr. Slavin extended members’ wishes to his daughter-in-law, noting that his son is on active duty
as a Captain in the Air Force at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska. He noted that they were
expecting Mr. Slavin’s first grandchild and someone had commented to him that they were out there
all by themselves. Mr. Slavin had responded that they were not by themselves since there is a big
community out there, and he expressed thanks.
PUBLIC HEARING - ALLEY ABANDONMENT (UNIMPROVED/PAPER) - BETWEEN
29 NORTH KIRKWOOD STREET AND 434, 440, 442, 444, AND 452 FULTON STREET
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider abandonment of an
unimproved/paper alley located between 29 North Kirkwood Street and 434, 440, 442, 444, and 452
Fulton Street.
During the Council Committee of the Whole/Utility Committee meeting of March 28, 2017,
members were advised that Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity had requested the abandonment
of an unimproved alley located between their property at 29 North Kirkwood Street and properties
located north of the alley at 434, 440, 442, 444, and 452 Fulton Street. Members referred the
request back to staff.
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Acting City Manager, stated that staff went back to the area, surveyed the
alley, and determined that there was encroachment in the alley, including growth, buildings, and a
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 10
fence on the Fulton Street side. She explained that this had been discussed with legal counsel and,
after taking into account the information obtained through the Public Works Department staff, legal
counsel, and discussion items from the Council Committee of the Whole/Utility Committee, staff
recommended: 1) abandoning the entire alley to 29 N. Kirkwood Street (Habitat for Humanity) less
the fenced area currently utilized by 452 Fulton Street (to be abandoned to 452 Fulton Street).
Should other northern property owners feel they have a legitimate encroachment claim the claimant
should proceed with establishing the elements of adverse possession, and 2) allow Habitat for
Humanity to absorb all costs for alley abandonment as offered at the Council Committee of the
Whole/Utility Committee meeting and referenced in the minutes.
Council President Slavin declared the public hearing open.
Mr. Dan Simpson, Executive Director, Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity, stated that they were
in favor and appreciative of the recommendation.
There being no one else present wishing to speak, Mr. Slavin declared the public hearing closed.
Mr. Neil moved to accept staff’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Anderson.
Mr. Anderson thanked the parties at Habitat for Humanity and staff for working out the details and
concerns. He stated that this looked like a very sound proposal.
Mr. Slavin asked that a clerical amendment be made, if the makers of the motion were amenable,
to direct staff to prepare a resolution of abandonment and authorize the Council President to sign that
resolution without further presentation to City Council. Mr. Neil and Mr. Anderson agreed to the
amendment.
The motion to accept staff’s recommendation to: 1) abandon the entire alley to
29 N. Kirkwood Street (Habitat for Humanity) less the fenced area currently utilized by
452 Fulton Street (to be abandoned to 452 Fulton Street); should other northern property
owners feel they have a legitimate encroachment claim the claimant should proceed with
establishing the elements of adverse possession; 2) allow Habitat for Humanity to absorb all
costs for alley abandonment as offered at the Council Committee of the Whole/Utility
Committee meeting and referenced in the minutes; and that the Council President be
authorized to sign the resolution without further presentation to City Council was carried by
a unanimous roll call vote (Mr. Sudler absent).
COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT - APRIL 11, 2017
The Council Committee of the Whole Meeting was held on April 11, 2017 at
6:00 p.m., with Council President Slavin presiding. Members of Council present
were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil, Mr. Cole, and Mr. Hutchison. Mr. Lewis
and Mr. Hare were absent. Civilian members present for their Committee meetings
were Ms. Arndt and Mr. Blakeman (Utility). Mayor Christiansen was also present.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 11
UTILITY COMMITTEE
The Utility Committee meeting was held with Chairman Cole presiding.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Hutchison moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Sudler and
unanimously carried.
Presentation - Energy Efficiency Program Proposal by Delaware Municipal
Electric Corporation (DEMEC)
Mr. Pat McCullar, President, Delaware Municipal Electric Corporation (DEMEC)
advised that DEMEC is a joint action agency that provides generation, transmission,
and technical services to eight (8) municipal distribution systems in the State of
Delaware, which are DEMEC’s owners. He explained that DEMEC is a not-for-
profit company, everything that they do is for the benefit of the eight (8) municipal
utilities that own DEMEC, and they would be very thrilled to have Dover be
the ninth utility to own it. Mr. McCullar stated that they had been invited to present
their recommendation and program to meet the intent of the State of Delaware's
energy efficiency goals in a cost effective manner.
Mr. McCullar stated that DEMEC supported Dover's current efforts to explore all
avenues available to increase energy efficiency and to lower the cost of operating its
municipal utility, and noted that one (1) immediately available option was to switch
to DEMEC, being the full requirement Load Serving Entity (LSE) for the City of
Dover, as the other eight (8) municipal electric utilities had done in the past. He
noted that, in addition to gaining the potential advantage of DEMEC’s rates, this
switch would largely eliminate Dover's power supply acquisition costs from the cost
of services currently being provided by third parties under contract. Mr. McCullar
indicated that the switch would also eliminate a major management responsibility
and work requirement costs, while the City would maintain full control and
ownership of the electric utility. He advised that DEMEC was available at any time
to discuss this in further detail.
Mr. Scott Lynch, Vice President of Asset Development, DEMEC, stated that the
evening’s presentation was the product of about two (2) years worth of work. He
explained that DEMEC was approached by its members to see what other program
offerings they could provide, and one (1) of them was energy efficiency. Mr. Lynch
advised that, in October of 2016, the DEMEC Board requested a formal presentation
and recommendation for consideration, and the Energy Efficiency Program Proposal
was presented during their meeting in November 2016. Mr. Lynch noted that in
December the Board took action to state that the next step in the process would be
to bring this program before the local regulatory bodies for consideration, and engage
with American Municipal Power, Inc. (AMP). Mr. Lynch indicated that AMP’s
program had been evaluated by DEMEC against other programs of this type around
the country and was probably the best program Mr. Lynch had ever seen. He stated
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 12
that the program had a lot of benefits due to its quality and its shared nature, which
was designed specifically to help municipalities.
Mr. Randy Corbin, Assistant Vice President of Energy Efficiency, AMP, advised that
they are a joint action agency with 135 members in nine (9) states and were proud to
have DEMEC as one (1) of those members. He explained that they had been
working with DEMEC on the Energy Efficiency Program for two (2) years, and he
and Mr. Dave Cawley, Business Development Manager, Efficiency Smart, had been
working on it for 10 years. Mr. Corbin noted that in 2007 they began working on an
energy efficiency program for AMP’s members, in an effort to achieve their goal of
1% annual energy savings for subscribing members by 2015. He indicated that, as
a joint action agency, they offer a subscription and cannot force any of their members
to participate in any of their programs, explaining that members have to sign up and
pay a fee. Mr. Corbin advised that education is very laborious and much more
difficult than his previous work as a regulator for the Illinois Commission.
Mr. Corbin explained that he and Mr. Dave Cawley came up with the Efficiency
Smart Program, noting that Mr. Cawley is the implementation contractor and works
for the Vermont Energy Investment Corporation (VEIC). He noted that they signed
a contract with VEIC to implement the program in 2010 and started offering services
in 2011. Mr. Corbin advised that their first three (3) years ran from 2011 - 2013 and
they were proud to hit 150% of their three-year target. He indicated that they lowered
their price and set a higher target for the second three (3) years, which they had just
finished, and hit approximately 150% of their three-year target again.
Mr. Corbin and Mr. Cawley reviewed a presentation entitled, “Energy Efficiency
Program Proposal for Dover, DE.” In summarizing the presentation, Mr. Cawley
reviewed the Benefits & Costs for the City of Dover and noted that the proposal was
based on the characteristics of Dover as a community. He indicated that the objective
of the program would be to save a quarter percent of the annual electricity sales for
each year, for a three-year period, which would save 5,660 MWh of electricity. Mr.
Cawley stated that when energy efficiency measures are installed, they have a
measured life and, on average for a program like this, this measured life would be
approximately 12 years; therefore, over the life of these efficiency measures, 66,870
MWh would be saved. He noted that the offering to save this quarter percent was
based on a unit price of 90 cents per MWh sold, resulting in an annual fee of
approximately $679,000 to the community. Mr. Cawley advised that over a three-
year program, this would be a little more than $2,000,000. He explained that the
benefit would be the avoided energy, the avoided peak demand and capacity charges,
the transmission and distribution charges, etc. Mr. Cawley advised that the program
could also help to defer investment in new distribution equipment. He indicated that
these kinds of benefits would deliver a benefit to cost ratio of two (2) to one (1);
therefore, there would be $2.00 of benefit for every $1.00 dollar invested in the
program. Mr. Cawley indicated that it would also provide a levelized cost over the
life of the savings of approximately $30 per MWh and, relative to other new power
supply, this would be two (2) to three (3) times cheaper than new power supply.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 13
Mr. Sudler asked what the nearest city to Dover was where this service had been
provided and how that city was presently doing. Responding, Mr. Cawley advised
that his company, VEIC, manages the program in Washington, DC. He explained
that they had started services in 2011 and their contract with the Department of
Environment and Energy for the District of Columbia had just been renewed for
another five (5) years.
Mr. Sudler asked if the District of Columbia had any major concerns with the product
being provided. Responding, Mr. Cawley indicated that the District of Columbia was
very much interested in seeing that low-income citizens would be able to receive the
benefits of the program and structured it so that 30% of the money spent in the
program had to be directed to housing and to low-income houses.
Mr. Slavin expressed interest in the program; however, he explained that the City had
a somewhat counterintuitive business model. He indicated that conservation on the
part of the customers reduces the City’s revenues, which threatens its ability to
transfer profit from the utility over to the General Fund and puts pressure on taxes.
Mr. Slavin advised that he personally felt that this had held the City back on
conservation efforts over the years because there was no internal reward for
conservation, which causes problems elsewhere, and spills into the lack of economic
development incentives. He noted that this had been hinted at in the presentation,
with the return ratio of two (2) to one (1), avoiding energy usage altogether, and peak
issues. Mr. Slavin asked how other municipalities who found themselves in the same
kind of scenario had approached this.
In response to Mr. Slavin, Mr. Corbin advised that they had served 54 communities
over six (6) years and that he thought that every community was worried about
whether their electric fund would be harmed. He stated that many of these
communities had participated for the entire six (6) years and not a single one had said
that their electric fund was harmed to a significant degree. Mr. Corbin explained
that, at the level they were approaching it, the intensity of energy efficiency was
saving a quarter percent of sales a year and was only addressing and cutting growth,
and not the base sales. He stated that in many of these communities, three (3), four
(4), or five (5) businesses constitute 30% - 40% of their sales. Mr. Corbin stated that
sales could drop even more precipitously if these businesses are not made more
competitive and they cut back or leave the community. He noted that, in many
instances, by cutting their operating costs these businesses had actually increased
sales and came out of the Great Recession more competitive, and he cited two (2)
examples. Mr. Corbin advised that Airstream makes recreational vehicles in Jackson
Center, Ohio, and this product suffered in the Great Recession. He stated that
Airstream did a couple of projects with his organization, came out of the Great
Recession in a far more competitive position, and had now attracted their frame
manufacturer into Jackson Center. Mr. Corbin indicated that they had basically
reduced some of Jackson Center's growth but not their base sales, and now their
electric fund was growing. Likewise, he stated that Allstate has a big data center in
one of the communities participating in the program, and it was losing business to
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 14
another data center in the Allstate company. Mr. Corbin explained that data centers
are huge energy users. He noted that this center did a couple of projects, cut their
energy by 20%, and could then bid and take business away from other data centers
in the Allstate family. He advised that they were far more competitive and had
actually grown; therefore, this program could grow sales, rather than reducing them,
and this had been the experience of communities they had helped over the last six (6)
years.
Mr. Cawley noted that it had been discussed that efficiency measures last 12 years
on average. He indicated that this meant that the program would help to keep rates
lower because the City would have to purchase less new power supply. Mr. Cawley
indicated that efficiency in that regard helps to mitigate future rate increases and ends
up being a benefit for everybody who is on the system.
Mr. Blakeman commented that it had been mentioned that light bulbs could be
purchased for $5.00 and sold for $1.00 and asked if the City could do this.
Responding, Mr. Cawley advised that the program takes care of this. He noted that
it is a turnkey program and they provide everything, from working with the vendors
who would sell the product to working with the manufacturers to broker the deals so
that the product is there. Mr. Cawley stated that some parties are interested in
promotion, noting that getting people to participate is key, so they try to use all the
media outlets that they can, including bill inserts, messages in the billing, social
media, and co-op advertising.
Mr. Blakeman questioned where the $4.00 would come from. Mr. Cawley responded
that this is part of the fee for the program, which helps to buy down the cost and is
an incentive. He explained that the manufacturer provides the light bulbs to the
retailer, and Mr. Cawley’s organization just helps to reduce the cost of the product
to the retailer so they can sell it at a lower price. Mr. Blakeman asked if this goes
into the fee, and Mr. Cawley stated that it did.
Responding to Mr. Blakeman regarding the location of call centers, Mr. Cawley
advised that they have three (3) different locations and, depending on the size of the
program, they may need a call center in Delaware. He noted that most of their staff
for the program would be located in Delaware. Mr. Cawley indicated that they are
currently supported out of their offices in Columbus, Ohio; Washington, D.C.; and
Vermont. In response to Mr. Blakeman, he indicated that if Dover was in the
program, they would have an account manager in Dover.
Mr. Blakeman asked who would supply people to participate in community events.
In response, Mr. Cawley stated that this relates to account management, and they
have community engagement staff that provides this kind of service, this is covered
in the fee, and there are no additional charges.
Mr. Neil asked if it was possible to do a trial run with some of the City’s businesses
who are concerned about seeing what could be done about electric, or if the City
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 15
would have to pick up the entire package in order to have that done. Responding,
Mr. Corbin stated that they could make themselves available to meet with some of
these businesses if members would like them to better explain what they do. He
indicated that, in order to see what could be done, the first step with key account
managers is usually a walk-through type audit. Mr. Corbin explained that they are
very experienced and can usually walk through a building, do some baseline analysis,
and understand what they need to do. He noted that this usually involves being in the
program.
Mr. Cawley expressed his belief that, in the past, they had an engineer and key
account manager come to communities who were thinking of joining the program.
He noted that they had someone coming to do service and take a look at street lights,
and there may be an opportunity to set up a meeting.
Mr. McCullar stated that there had been meetings with all nine (9) of the municipal
electric utilities in Delaware. He advised that they had commitments to sign up from
Seaford, Newark, New Castle, Clayton, approval was pending from Milford, and
they were waiting on Middletown. Mr. McCullar indicated that they were looking
for everyone to participate in the program. He noted that their number one (1) goal
was to do it efficiently, and they had found over the years that an "all for one, one for
all" approach was the most efficient, since it makes the most efficient use of the
dollars and resources they would bring to apply in every community. Mr. McCullar
advised that there would be community managers for the program and a lot of
customization, so each community would have an opportunity to shape the program
to their unique needs.
In regard to money and how the program would affect a business model,
Mr. McCullar advised that a lot of this had to do with rate design, and everyone
should be looking strongly at rate design in all the communities. He stated that
DEMEC would be putting on a rate design seminar on Saturday, April 22, 2017 at
9:00 a.m., noting that a Saturday morning had been selected because a lot of council
people had indicated that they would like to come but had jobs and were busy.
Mr. McCullar stated that they would discuss what rate designs work in the electric
utility industry of today, stating that, with the right rate design, the City could make
itself fairly immune to the negative impact from the loss of kilowatt hour sales.
Mr. McCullar indicated that this was the way to go because customers were starting
to demand these services, and businesses want ways to be more efficient so they can
become more competitive. He stated that, although businesses want and need lower
rates, being able to show them techniques and technologies to make them more
efficient and lower their cost of production means more to them than their electric
rate, and this is what the program does. Mr. McCullar advised that this is a great
economic development tool for retention of businesses and bringing new businesses
in. He indicated that when the demand for energy from customers is reduced, the
cost of capacity, transmission, and producing the next megawatt of energy is avoided,
and noted that the cost of that next megawatt of energy is going up quite a bit in
today's regulatory environment. Mr. McCullar explained that the margin gets larger
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 16
as more power is produced, so it is better to save money for the end-use customers
and to save the cost of the City’s utility having to produce the next megawatt.
Mr. Anderson asked for an explanation of the nature and extent of the LED streetlight
conversion benefit and if there were grants that help reduce the cost to the
municipality. Responding, Mr. Cawley stated that, in working with municipalities
in the Efficient Smart Program, no special grants had been needed. He noted that
they provide both the technical assistance to help design the technology going in and
the financial incentives to the community to help offset some of the costs of the LED
streetlights. Mr. Cawley advised that they had worked with at least a half a dozen
communities in the Efficiency Smart Program in the Ohio program and were trying
to find out if there were more communities that were interested in order to expand
the program. He indicated they were considering putting together a contracting
program to put out a bid for multiple cities to see if they could obtain cost reductions
from suppliers and contractors for the installation of the work, and this was currently
under development.
Mr. McCullar noted that they have an aggressive LED streetlight retrofit program for
the communities in the DEMEC group, and Mr. Lynch was their resident expert in
making that happen.
Mr. Lynch advised that their members were looking at ways to save energy that
would go after their costs, and one (1) way was to look at street lighting, which is a
cost burden to the community. He stated that they work to bring economies of scale
together by bulk purchasing the power of multiple municipalities to lower the cost
of LED lights. Mr. Lynch indicated that the City of Newark took tremendous
advantage of that program and changed out over almost 2,000 of their LED
streetlights, and reducing this portion of their load was a direct benefit to the
community. He explained that other communities saw this and became a part of it
themselves. Mr. Lynch advised that they found that there was a direct benefit with
the initial pilot program and, even without a grant, the LED lights were much more
effective than lights that burn out more quickly. He noted that LED lights meant that
they did not have to roll out a truck, there was safety in not having to have a worker
out on the lights, and this made the project worthwhile. Mr. Lynch advised that this
had already been done in DEMEC. He indicated that this was offered to the City of
Dover and DEMEC stood ready to assist the City with the initial pilot. He explained
that bringing forth this program would help further that effort.
Mr. Hutchison asked how long they had been working with Newark with the LED
street light program, and Mr. Lynch advised that they had done this approximately
two (2) years ago. Mr. Lynch indicated that they got the product in at the end of 2015
and it was fully installed by approximately February 2016. Mr. Hutchison asked how
long it takes to get the product once it is identified that a municipality wants to
proceed. Responding, Mr. Lynch stated his belief that the order was placed in late
November and the product was received from the vendor in the first part of January.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 17
Mr. McCullar explained that they already had contracts with vendors, had gone
through a couple of phases of installation, and vendors had held the prices for about
a year-and-a-half through each phase of it. He noted that the maintenance costs for
these lights go down tremendously since they last multiple years, as opposed to high-
pressure sodium lights, and a truck does not have to roll out periodically to maintain
them, which is a big cost savings. Mr. Corbin noted that LED street lights are
available that have a 10-year warranty, which indicates a high faith that the lights will
not have to be replaced for 10 years.
Mr. Blakeman advised that the City of Dover thought this was such a good idea that
they had been using these kinds of lights for several years. He noted that all new and
replacement lights are this type and they can be seen on Route 8; however, he
expressed appreciation for the help.
Ms. Arndt questioned if funding for rebates would come from the annual fee or if this
would be a pass-through from federal grants. Responding, Mr. Corbin stated that this
is included in the fee.
Mr. McCullar noted that they do not rely on any additional federal grant or local grant
money, stating that they designed the program based on the ability to stand alone if
they are going to have to do it themselves. However, he stated that they will obtain
grant money if they can.
Mr. Lynch added that they made sure to include in the program a component that the
contractors would look for other availabilities for funding, and the purpose of the
program was not to supplant those programs but to complement them. He noted that
if there was a means to take an incentive that the State is offering, those dollars could
be used in efforts that were not being funded.
Mr. Anderson questioned if there had been progress in getting efficiency in helping
to meet some of the State’s Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS). Responding,
Mr. McCullar stated that there would be a benefit since the State’s RPS is based off
the amount of KWh sales that a municipality consumes. He noted that when the
number of sales and the costs are reduced through efficiency, the compliance cost for
renewables is also reduced, so they work hand in hand.
Mr. Anderson asked how the program works when it comes to key accounts
management and how often the City could expect to have access to someone. He
asked if they would have a certain number of people in Delaware who would go
around and help those who need it. Responding, Mr. Cawley stated that, with a full
complement of all nine (9) communities, it would be reasonable for them to have two
(2) or three (3) dedicated account managers, with each serving two (2) or three (3)
communities, noting that size would make a difference. He explained that their
program currently has four (4) key account managers serving 25 communities that
are spread out over a three-hour drive in either direction. Mr. Cawley advised that
they are there every month and have regular meetings, usually with the utility
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 18
manager, but sometimes with city managers. He advised that these individuals could
go over the progress of the program, discuss directional priorities, and coordinate on
publicity. Mr. Cawley stated that they would co-brand things, and the City’s emblem
could be included with the program emblem on advertising and communications, so
that there would be instant recognition that the City was offering the service.
Mr. McCullar explained that DEMEC would be working very closely with the
program, noting that Mr. Lynch’s title is Vice President of Asset Development. He
explained that they consider energy efficiency to be an asset, just like a generation
plant would be, and they would be working very closely with Efficiency Smart. He
stated that their own people, including Mr. Lynch and others, would be available to
work with each of the communities to make sure that the program is successful.
Mr. Anderson questioned if any of their programs would involuntarily restrict access
to electricity at certain peak hours and if meters would suddenly kick people off. In
response, Mr. McCullar advised that they would not.
Mayor Christiansen noted that it had been stated that account representatives would
be working with each of the municipalities. He asked if an accurate report could be
provided each month for the previous month. Responding, Mr. Corbin indicated that
monthly reports could be provided to all participants and could be tailored to a
municipality’s specific needs. Mayor Christiansen asked if they would work with the
City’s utility director and City Manager to format a readable document for members
of Council, and Mr. Corbin indicated that this could be done.
Mr. Anderson asked if the City would be required to be a full member or if it could
participate as an associate member. In response, Mr. McCullar stated that the City
could participate in the program on an equal footing with all other DEMEC
communities and the cost and level of service would be the same.
Mr. Anderson noted that the annual cost would be approximately $700,000 and that
it had been stated that the benefit ratio would be two (2) to one (1). He asked how
long it would be before the City would start to recoup this cost. In response,
Mr. Cawley advised that the annual cost would be close to $700,000 and, on average,
there would be approximately a 12-year life for the measures, although some of the
measures would go for up to 20 years. He explained that, from a payback
perspective, typically the crossover point when the benefits are greater than the cost
comes in around year seven (7) or so for the program.
Ms. Arndt asked if they would be willing to offer the City customer contact
information so that the City could reach out to other municipalities to get their
thoughts on the experience. Responding, Mr. Corbin indicated that referrals could
absolutely be provided. He advised that Mr. Eric Norenberg, City Manager of
Milford, used to be the City Manager in Oberlin, Ohio, which was one (1) of their
long-term participants and would be happy to talk about the program.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 19
Mr. Anderson moved that this matter be referred to staff for review, noting that he
would like to hear back in July what they think. The motion was seconded by
Mr. Sudler.
Mr. Slavin asked if there could be an earlier report during the budget deliberations.
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Acting City Manager, stated that she would try to bring
something forward during the budget deliberations. Mr. Slavin asked Mrs. Mitchell
to remember that members wanted to have a conversation about this program during
the budget. Responding, Mrs. Mitchell stated that this could be done because this
would be a budgetary decision if members decided to go this route.
The Committee recommended referring this matter to staff for review.
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Lewis and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Mr. Sudler absent).
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for acceptance of the Council Committee of the Whole
Report, seconded by Mr. Lewis and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Mr. Sudler absent).
QUARTERLY REVENUE REPORT
Members were provided the Quarterly Revenue Report as of March 31, 2017
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for acceptance of the Quarterly Revenue Report as of
March 31, 2017, seconded by Mr. Lewis and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Mr. Sudler
absent).
SEMI-ANNUAL INSPECTION BY CITY MANAGER - ROBBINS HOSE COMPANY
Staff requested that the report on the semi-annual inspection by the City Manager be deferred until
May 22, 2017.
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved to defer the semi-annual inspection until May 22, 2017,
seconded by Mr. Lewis and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Mr. Sudler absent).
SPECIAL ELECTION TO FILL VACANCY - ROBBINS HOSE COMPANY - TERM TO
EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2017 - FOURTH ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEF -
WILLIAM BRADLEY
Members were provided the results of the April 17, 2017 Robbins Hose Company Special Election
for consideration, as follows:
Fourth Assistant Fire Chief - William Bradley
By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for acceptance of the Fourth Assistant Fire Chief for
Robbins Hose Company No. 1 for the year 2017, seconded by Mr. Lewis and carried by a
unanimous roll call vote (Mr. Sudler absent).
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 20
2017 REGULAR MUNICIPAL ELECTION RESULTS
Mrs. Traci McDowell, City Clerk, reported the results of the 2017 Municipal Election held on
April 18, 2017, as certified by the Election Board, as follows:
AT-LARGE
Timothy A. Slavin (Unopposed)
FOR FIRST DISTRICT CITY COUNCIL
William J. Garfinkel 132 (25.58%)
Matthew J. Lindell 172 (33.33%)
Tanner W. Polce 212 (41.09%)
The Total Votes Cast for 1st District City Council were 516, which is 7.23% of 7,134 Total 1st
District Registered Voters.
FOR SECOND DISTRICT CITY COUNCIL
Mr. James J. Galvin, Jr. 160 (32.39%)
William F. Hare 334 (67.61%)
The Total Votes Cast for 2nd District City Council were 494, which is 7.53% of 6,560 Total 2nd
District Registered Voters.
FOR THIRD DISTRICT CITY COUNCIL
Lance E. Moffa 30 (8.90%)
Fred A. Neil 280 (83.09%)
Jane E. Rolfes 27 (8.01%)
The Total Votes Cast for 3rd District City Council were 337, which is 5.56% of 6,061 Total 3rd
District Registered Voters.
FOR FOURTH DISTRICT CITY COUNCIL
David L. Anderson (Unopposed)
Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Election Results as reported by the City Clerk, seconded
by Mr. Cole and unanimously carried.
EVALUATION OF BIDS - SOUTH LAKEVIEW DRIVE DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT
PROJECT
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Acting City Manager, advised that the South Lakeview Drive Drainage
Improvement project to alleviate the flooding of Lakeview Drive was started some time ago, and the
design of the project was originally funded through Community Transportation Funds (CTF). She
indicated that the CTF agreement was sponsored by Representative Darryl Scott and Senator Brian
Bushweller; however, the construction aspect of the project was not funded by a CTF agreement and
there was no money in the budget at the time to finish the project. Mrs. Mitchell advised that
$105,000 was currently available, due to sales of equipment and vehicles during the past year, and
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 21
she recommended utilizing some of these funds to complete the project. She noted that the bids
would expire in May; therefore staff was trying to move forward.
Staff recommended awarding the contract to Gateway Construction Corporation for the City of
Dover South Lakeview Drive Drainage Improvement Project, Bid #17-0023PW, for the amount of
$38,930.00.
In response to Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Mitchell stated that this was the lowest bid and $38,930 of the
$105,000 would be used for the project.
Mr. Hare moved to award the contract to Gateway Construction Corporation for the City of
Dover South Lakeview Drive Drainage Improvement Project, Bid #17-0023PW, for the amount
of $38,930.00, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hutchison and
carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Mr. Sudler absent).
REZONING REQUEST FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1408, 1412, AND 1416 COLLEGE
ROAD - FIRST READING OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2017-05
A request was received to rezone properties located at 1408 College Road, consisting of 0.26+/-
acres; 1412 College Road, consisting of 3.42+/- acres; and 1416 College Road, consisting of 0.80+/-
acres, owned by The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of
the State of Delaware, Inc. The property is currently zoned R-8 (One-Family Residence) and the
proposed zoning is IO (Institutional and Office).
Prior to amending the zoning ordinances and zoning map of the City of Dover, a public hearing is
required.
Mr. Hare moved to refer the request to the Planning Commission on May 15, 2017 and set a public
hearing before City Council for June 12, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. The motion was seconded by
Mr. Anderson.
Mr. Anderson asked if this rezoning was related to cleaning up non-conforming uses. Responding,
Mr. Dave Hugg, Acting Director of Planning and Community Development stated that it was. He
noted that two (2) of the parcels were zoned residential but used as institutional, and the rezoning
would make all three (3) of them consistent.
The motion to refer the request to the Planning Commission on May 15, 2017 and set a public
hearing before City Council for June 12, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. was carried by a unanimous roll
call vote (Mr. Sudler absent).
In accordance with Section 1-9 of the Dover Code, Council acknowledged the First Reading of
Proposed Ordinance #2014-02 as read by the City Clerk, by title only, as follows:
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY
OF DOVER BY CHANGING THE ZONING DESIGNATION OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT
1408, 1412, AND 1416 COLLEGE ROAD
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 22
ACTING CITY MANAGER'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Acting City Manager, informed members that there would be a Muslim
American Unity rally on Legislative Mall on Wednesday, April 26, 2017 from noon to 2:00 p.m.
Mrs. Mitchell advised that the City’s Leaf Compost and Wood Chips Giveaway would be ongoing
on Fridays and Saturdays through the end of May.
Mrs. Mitchell thanked the City Clerk’s Office staff for their work and efforts on the Municipal
Election, the Police Department for their Spring Jam last Thursday, and the Public Works
Department for their work on Spring Clean-Up during the previous week.
COUNCIL MEMBERS' ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Neil advised that, during the April 20, 2017 tourism meeting, there was discussion on the DE
Turf Sports Complex and how it may affect the area, particularly Dover. He stated he thought it
positive that traffic was not a bad as the newspapers had indicated and that it went smoothly.
Mr. Neil noted that license plates showed that visitors to a tournament at the complex came from as
far as Ohio and Texas. He stated that it was good news for Dover that motels and restaurants did
well, noting that this was not official information and no head count was done per se. Mr. Neil
indicated that the new website for tourism was exciting and suggested looking at it to see what had
been done and how it affects Dover. He noted that they were gearing up for Dover Days and the
City’s 300th Anniversary.
Mr. Hutchison stated that the 2017 City of Dover Special First District Municipal Election would
be held on Tuesday, May 16th, 2017, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 pm. He advised that
the polling place would be the Elks Lodge, #1903, 200 Saulsbury Road. Mr. Hutchison stated that
additional information was available on the City of Dover website at www.cityofdover.com by
clicking on the Election button, or by contacting the City’s Clerk’s Office at 736-7008 or by email
at cityclerk@dover.de.us.
Mr. Hare questioned when there would be information regarding televising Council meetings.
Responding, Mrs. Traci McDowell, City Clerk, stated that she was unsure when equipment would
be fully installed; however, there would be a walkthrough on the following day.
Mr. Anderson thanked their friend and college Mr. James Hutchison for many years of great service
to the City and everything he had done, noting that it had been a pleasure serving with him.
Mr. Slavin noted that there would be a formal ceremonial farewell.
Mr. Hutchison moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Hare and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:28 p.m.
TRACI A. McDOWELL
CITY CLERK
Page 23
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2017 PAGE 23
All ordinances, resolutions, motions, and orders adopted by City Council during their Regular
Meeting of April 24, 2017, are hereby approved.
ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
MAYOR
/TM
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\Council-Minutes\2017\04-24-2017 Council Minutes.wpd
Exhibits
Exhibit #1 - Presentation - LEAD360 Awards Ceremony
Page 24
EXHIBIT #1
Regular City Council Meeting of 4/24/2017
LEAD
City of Dover
April 24, 2017
Page 25
The LEAD360 Challenge, an initiative of the Jefferson Awards Foundation,
is one of the largest youth service contests in America. The Challenge taps
into the energy and idealism of young people, encouraging and facilitating
them to share their stories of service with millions.
★★★★★★★★★★
Page 26
To date LEAD360 has seen:
More than 6,500 projects
and BIG IDEAS
Engaged 1 Million young
people
Worked with over 40
National Partners
More than 1Million
impressions on Twitter
and Instagram
Impacted more than
12Million lives
Page 27
3B Brae’s Brown Bags-
Braeden Mannering
9,000 Lives Impacted
700 Hours Generated
550 People Activated
The Inspiring Project-
Chase Marvil
91,000 Lives Impacted
2,000 Hours Generated
2,000 People Activated
Page 28
This year we had 7 Mayors in Delaware commit to host and promote the
LEAD360 Challenge in their city.
City of Dover: Mayor Robin Christiansen
Town of Georgetown: Mayor Bill West
City of Lewes: Mayor Ted Becker
City of Milford: Mayor Bryan Shupe
City of Newark: Mayor Polly Sierer
City of Seaford: Mayor David Genshaw
City of Wilmington: Mayor Mike Purzycki
Page 29
2016-2017 State of Delaware
Phase 1 Results
104 Projects
16,619 Volunteers
39,829 Volunteer Hours
Page 30
2016-2017 State of Delaware
Phase 2 Results
16 Activation Projects Completed
Delaware LEAD360 Impacted 7,455 Lives
--
Over $49,000 Financial Value
Page 31
Reagan & Payton Garnsey
Alex’s Lemonade Stand
Page 32
Caesar Rodney High School JDG
Positive Post-it Notes
Page 33
ASPIRA & Spanish Club at Dover High School
Help Haiti
Page 34
Positive Outcomes Charter School JDG
Canned Food Drive
Page 35
Positive Outcomes JDG Smyrna Middle School JDG
Chipman Middle School JDG Milford Central Academy JDG
Parks & Community Clean Up
Page 36
Landon Bailey
iMove
iGive
Page 37
Holy Cross Knitting Club
Page 38
Antonio Foundjing
LIFT2AFRICA
Page 39
City of Dover
Phase 1 Results
9 Projects
679 Volunteers
4,679 Volunteer Hours
3,612 Lives Impacted
Over $110,000 Financial Impact
Page 40
2016 Phase 2 Activation
Participants
University of Delaware Parking Services
MOT Charter 2nd & 3rd Grades
Braeden Mannering
St. George’s High School
Greater Newark Boys & Girls Club
Western Sussex Boys & Girls Club
Martina Duffy
Nor Enterprises
Laverty Lane Housing
Seaford High School JDG
Delmarva Christian School
William Henry Middle School Stars Program
Delaware SIA Student Leaders
Page 41
2016 Phase 2
Delaware Winners!
Score on Hunger Teddy-Grams For Troops Survivor Packs
UD Parking Services William Henry Middle School Stars
Seaford High School JDG
Program
3,289 lbs of food = $11,487 155 stuffed animals = $2,325 61 packs = $915 Financial
Financial Value Financial Value Value
Page 42
2017 National Winner & Project
Emma's Art Cart
Health & Wellness
Emma Stumpf
Page 43
Over the course of this year, we will track
the collective impact of this project all over the country.
Health & Emma’s
Emma Stumpf
Wellness Art Cart
We invite individuals, organizations, schools, companies, and communities to
participate in LEAD360 through Emma’s Art Cart!
Jefferson Awards will be given to those who make the biggest impact in the
State of Delaware.
Page 44
LEAD