Council Minutes

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING The Regular Council Meeting was held on March 25, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. with Council President Slavin presiding. Council members present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil, Mr. Cole, Mr. Polce, Mr. Hare, and Mr. Lindell. Staff members present were Police Chief Mailey, Ms. Peddicord, Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Hugg, Fire Chief Rhodes, City Solicitor Rodriguez, and Mrs. McDowell. Mayor Christiansen was also present. OPEN FORUM The Open Forum was held at 6:30 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. He noted that the Open Forum was scheduled from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. to accommodate what was anticipated to be a number of speakers. Council President Slavin noted that this was a peaceful assembly in the community, and that everyone would be afforded the opportunity to speak. He hoped that all would be afforded the dignity and respect of allowing people to speak without any negative or positive reactions. Ms. Lachelle Paul, 55 Glenn Street, Dover, expressed concerns about the lack of surveillance at Silver Lake Park and provided a brief outline of incidences at the park (as on file in the Office of the City Clerk), noting that the incident of October 17th should have been 2010 instead of 2012. Mr. Enrico Stratton-Bey, 66 Barrett Court, Felton, Delaware, advised that he was one of the co-founders of 10,000 Fearless, which teaches people in the community conflict resolution, and offered themselves as a solution to part of the problem. Mr. John Offredo and Ms. Jen Rini, 44 Washington Street, Dover, submitted a petition opposing the closing of Silver Lake and calling for increased safety precautions (as on file in the Office of the City Clerk). Mr. Michael Lewis, 646 Vista Avenue, advised that he was a new member of the Silver Lake Commission and that he was concerned about the headline in the paper. He noted that he was eager to listen and would bring the issue up at the next Commission meeting. Ms. Sandra Caldwell, 404 George Washington Drive, Dover, stated that she felt that the lake should be closed until there are cameras and some type of motion lights surrounding the whole lake so that law enforcement will know exactly what is going on at the park. Council President Slavin noted the receipt of correspondence regarding Silver Lake from Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Ms. Marie Kozel, Ms. Laura Parks, Mr. Dan Shortridge, Mr. David Moses, Mr. Michael Townsend, Mr. Donald Glandon, Ms. Dawn Webb-Buie, Ms. Cheryl Couvillion, and Ms. Lachelle Paul (as on file in the Office of the City Clerk). Mr. Ralph Taylor, 1017 Westview Terrace, stated that he recently announced that he was running for City Council and he has heard repeatedly that the number one issue concerning Dover is that people do not feel safe. He stated that he believes Dover needs more police substations and officers out of their cars.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 2 Mrs. Jean Taylor, 1017 Westview Terrace, Dover, stated that, as a mother and a grandmother, they personally go to Silver Lake on a fairly regular basis and, as a biracial family, she has never felt unsafe visiting Silver Lake. She noted that they do not go in the park when it is closed. Mr. Charles Salkin, 15 Maple Lane, advised that he has lived in Dover for 40 years and his career was park administration with the last 20 years being the director of state parks for Delaware. He stated that the best way to have safe parks is that they be well maintained and that they be actively used and programmed. Mr. Salkin advised that he has never felt unsafe in the park. Mr. Bobby Wilson, 1561 Nathaniel Mitchell Road, Dover, asked if any cameras had been installed at Silver Lake since the town hall meeting six months ago. He also suggested a city swimming pool or skate park for the kids. Police Chief Marvin Mailey stated that he has been advised that three cameras will be installed at Silver Lake within the next two months. One will be placed at the entrance and two will be placed within the park. Ms. Benita Rufus-Gassi stated that Johnny Clark was her godson and he was found dead at Silver Lake and it was considered a suicide. She advised that he was not suicidal. The invocation was given by Bishop Thomas L. Holsey, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS Council President Slavin requested the addition of a statement by Mayor Christiansen. Mr. Neil moved for approval of the agenda, as amended. The motion was seconded by Mr. Lindell and unanimously carried. Mr. Hare moved for approval of the consent agenda, seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote. STATEMENT BY MAYOR ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN Mayor Christiansen read the following statement: Mr. President, Honorable Members of Council, Citizens of Dover. Tonight as we gather here as a community of citizens in the finest traditions of our democracy my heart is heavy because of the loss of a young life .... a young man who left us much too soon and who leaves behind family and friends to have no real closure, no last good bye, no final embrace. So many unanswered questions and so many questions with answers, which only deepen our sadness. Yet, our community has been unduly stressed by accusations of malice and misdeeds by hysterical innuendos and a hunch. People playing on the fears of the uninformed and those who continually are looking for a conspiracy, and to those who would build

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 3 an atmosphere of hate, mistrust and division on the heartbreak and sadness of a grieving mother. I say no not in our town. The Dover Police Department has worked diligently on this case as they do on all cases. The Dover Police Department has an above average rate of closing cases far surpassing national statistics. Every case that is handled by the department is looked at, and picked apart considering all possibilities and scenarios and investigated thoroughly. The dedication of the men and women of the Dover Police Department to solve each crime is the reason for the outstanding clearance rates. To insinuate otherwise is simply ridiculous. Today I ask each of you to join me in the belief that this community is a diverse city who embraces one another as brothers and sisters. As people of goodwill who look for the best in all of us and who condemn evil, hate, racism and prejudice - no matter where it comes from, or who claims it to be the truth. Finally as Mayor of the City of Dover each night this prayer is on my heart for police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel please keep them safe from harm as they perform their difficult task. In addition, as a father I pray for my family and the families of our City, every man, woman and child for they area my family too. Their safety and well-being is my responsibility, a responsibility I do not take lightly. Let us continue as a community and as a family light candles of hope, rather than curse the darkness. May God bless each of you and may God always bless the City of Dover. Thank you. ADOPTION OF MINUTES - COUNCIL WORKSHOP OF JANUARY 25, 2019 The Minutes of the Council Workshop of January 25, 2019 were unanimously approved by motion of Mr. Hare, seconded by Mr. Neil and bore the written approval of Mayor Christiansen. ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 11, 2019 The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of March 11, 2019 were unanimously approved by motion of Mr. Hare, seconded by Mr. Neil and bore the written approval of Mayor Christiansen. ADOPTION OF MINUTES - SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 14, 2019 The Minutes of the Special Council Meeting of March 14, 2019 were unanimously approved by motion of Mr. Hare, seconded by Mr. Neil and bore the written approval of Mayor Christiansen.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 4 CERTIFICATE OF CONGRATULATIONS - MODERN MATURITY CENTER'S 50TH ANNIVERSARY The City Clerk read the following Certificate of Congratulations into the record: CERTIFICATE OF CONGRATULATIONS presented to Modern Maturity Center for providing invaluable programs, services, and activities for the active adult population of Dover and the surrounding area for the past 50 years. The City of Dover extends its sincere congratulations on this special milestone and wishes you many more years of success. March 25, 2019 On behalf of the Mayor and Council, Mayor Christiansen presented the Certificate of Congratulations to Ms. Carolyn Fredricks, President and CEO of the Modern Maturity Center. Ms. Fredricks thanked Council for recognizing the Modern Maturity Center and encouraged anyone 50 years or older to join. PRESENTATION - RECOGNITION OF SERVICE - NANCY J. SHEVOCK - ETHICS COMMISSION (NOVEMBER 1998 - JANUARY 2019) On behalf of members of Council, Mayor Christiansen presented Mrs. Nancy J. Shevock with a Dover Cup in recognition of her service on the Ethics Commission from November 1998 to January 2019. Mrs. Shevock, noting that she started on the Commission in 1998, thanked all of the people that helped the Ethics Commission throughout the years. PRESENTATION - 2018 ANNUAL REPORT - DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Mr. David Hugg, Director of the Department of Planning and Community Development, reviewed the 2018 Annual Report. Mr. Sudler asked if Mr. Hugg thought the rate of demolitions had gone up or down. Mr. Hugg stated that the number of demolitions was probably up a little bit, noting that in the last couple of years they have tried to really focus on those properties that needed to be demolished. He noted that a lot of properties that were soon to be dangerous were removed as part of the blight removal activities on Kirkwood and Queen Streets.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 5 Responding to Mr. Sudler about housing prices, Mr. Hugg stated that they were not seeing a variety of housing types. He noted that in a well-balanced housing market you tend to get a range of high-end, middle move-up, and starter or first time home buyer houses. Mr. Sudler moved for acceptance of the 2018 Annual Report of the Department of Planning and Community Development. The motion was seconded by Mr. Anderson and unanimously carried. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT - JANUARY 15, 2019 The Economic Development Committee met on January 15, 2019 at 4:30 p.m. with Mayor Christiansen presiding. Members present were Mr. Hare, Mr. Cole, Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Hugg, Ms. Laird, and Mrs. Adams. Mr. Hammond was absent. Draft 2019 Comprehensive Plan, Chapter 10 - Economic Development Plan During their meeting of December 10, 2018, Council approved the Committee’s recommendation to continue forward with the current verbiage with the caveat that they have concerns, and that staff bring the draft language back to the Economic Development Committee meeting on January 15, 2019. Mr. Dave Hugg, Director of Planning and Community Development, reviewed the revised goals for Chapter 10 - Economic Development Plan of the Draft 2019 Comprehensive Plan. Mr. Hugg noted that staff planned to have the Draft Plan ready for internal review by early February, so they were seeking input and suggestions. Ms. Laird noted that she was thrilled to see Ms. Tina Bradbury, Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP) Operations and Programs Manager, and Mr. Hugg working together to maintain an inventory of the buildings downtown, which includes the status of each building and the businesses occupying them. Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Hugg stated that staff needs to get the Comprehensive Plan distributed for public review and to members of Council, so they need comments, suggestions, and recommendations. He noted that he would ultimately like to have the endorsement of the Economic Development Committee. Mr. Hugg stated that the current Comprehensive Plan expires on February 19, 2019; however, because of the holidays, they City requested an extension from the State, which automatically provided an additional six (6) months. He advised that his target was to have the Comprehensive Plan to Council for consideration by no later than the middle of April. Mayor Christiansen noted that members still have time to review the Comprehensive Plan, and advised that they should submit any changes or suggestions directly to Mr. Hugg. Responding to Mr. Hare regarding Recommendation #13, Mr. Hugg explained that Dover is underserved but has a number of opportunities, particularly in the organic,

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 6 healthy, fresh fruits and vegetables area. He noted that the City was not as bad off as they were a couple of years ago, since Produce Junction and similar businesses had opened; however, he stated that there are still neighborhoods without access to fresh foods or particularly healthy foods. Mr. Hugg advised that the DDP has been working on an opportunity to re-develop a portion of the western side of the downtown using some Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) funding. He noted that there are opportunities in hydroponics and aquaponics, and certain specialty vegetables are being grown in very urban settings that the City does not have available. Mr. Hugg noted some members of the DDP have been aggressively trying to get gourmet and specialty food businesses to come to Dover, as well. Responding Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Hugg indicated that Recommendation #13 was pursuant to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the State of Delaware guidelines for the Community Garden Project. Mr. Hugg also noted that one (1) of the components of the Farmer’s Market downtown was the access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Ms. Laird stated that she thought that the Farmer’s Market was an excellent opportunity for those with moderate means to access local produce. She noted that it was still only one (1) day a week and that developing other corner grocery stores to provide local produce and good quality food would be an advantage in the City. Mrs. Mitchell asked if the stores would conflict with what happens at Spence’s Bazaar and what the differences would be. Responding, Mr. Hugg stated that this aspect of Spence’s Bazaar’s business had dropped substantially over the years. He noted that he had met with Mayor Christiansen and Mr. Esh, a vendor at Spence’s Bazaar, almost a year ago to talk about the decline of fresh fruits and vegetables as part of the bazaar. Mr. Hugg stated that he thought Spence’s Bazaar was one (1) potential opportunity, noting that Blank’s Kitchen at Spence’s Bazaar was undergoing a major renovation and expansion, and it was his understanding that they were going to promote healthier options by offering freshly processed types of food. Mr. Hugg noted that there was concern that when the City took enforcement action against the Fulton Street Market, the neighborhood lost potential access to fresh goods and produce, but expressed hope that the new owner would see the value in offering those items. Mr. Hugg noted that it was one (1) of the objectives of the Comprehensive Plan to make healthy food choices part of the City’s quality of life. Mrs. Mitchell asked if the plan was to promote the concept of having fresh fruit and vegetables to current restaurants and food merchants in Dover. Responding, Mr. Hugg stated that there was a number of the downtown merchants that are farm to table sensitive or fresh commodity sensitive. He indicated that many merchants are aware that there is a market among their customers for healthy food. Mayor Christiansen stated that the Committee would not take any action, but that consideration of this item would be placed on the agenda for the Economic

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 7 Development Committee meeting scheduled for February 12, 2019 for further review, comments, and endorsement. Dover in 2018 - An Economic Development Perspective Mr. Dave Hugg, Director of Planning and Community Development, advised members that the City of Dover was doing well. Mr. Hugg reviewed a map titled “2018 Permits Issued”, noting that the yellow dots showed each building permit that the Department of Planning and Inspections issued in 2018, excluding fences, fire, and mechanical permits. He also reviewed a document titled “A 2018 Retrospective - Major Construction Activity in Dover as Demonstrated by Certificates of Occupancy Calendar Year 2018”, and provided members with a list of the certificates of occupancy approved in 2018 with photos of each building. Mr. Hugg noted that last year the Department of Planning and Inspections issued 238 certificates of occupancy, 60 for commercial projects, 29 apartment buildings totaling 378 residential units, and 144 residential permits, which totaled 178 dwellings due to duplexes. Mr. Hugg stated that people are moving to Dover and making investments. He also noted that existing retailers are making renovations, including Target and Victoria’s Secret. Mr. Hugg indicated that members could expect to see two (2) or three (3) new businesses downtown in 2019. Mr. Hugg noted that, based on permits, the value of new construction was approximately $170M in 2018. Responding to Mrs. Mitchell, he stated that he did not know whether this figure would match the amount assessed by the City’s Tax Assessor. He stated that most of the properties are taxable, and explained that they took the total value of building permits issued last year and calculated $169.9M. Mr. Hugg noted that the total was actually a little higher than that because it did not include a few properties. Mr. Greg Akers, Chief Building Inspector, noted that the Wawa located on Route 8 was reconstructed twice and remodeled twice during his 15 years of employment with the City. He stated that the McDonald’s just underwent a major renovation, which totaled approximately $3.5M; however, no certificates of occupancy were issued because they were occupied throughout the renovations. Mr. Akers noted the first permits for Dover Town Center were issued approximately six (6) years ago and now it was completely full and included Jeweler’s Loupe, Five Below, Lane Bryant and 15 other businesses. Responding to Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Hugg stated there was a way to quantify how much work was going on in Dover by examining building permits. He noted that he has requested his front office staff to identify all of the building permits that are renovations and do not require a certificate of occupancy.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 8 Responding to Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Hugg stated that the City’s Tax Assessor takes the values of the permits to do the assessments and that there could be another $100M - $200M worth of renovations that did not require a certificate of occupancy. He noted that was a number that they also want to determine so they can provide Council and the public with an accurate picture of what’s happening in Dover. Mayor Christiansen thanked Mr. Hugg for his report and stated that the next Economic Development Committee Meeting was scheduled for February 12, 2019 at 4:30 p.m. By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for acceptance of the Economic Development Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT - FEBRUARY 12, 2019 The Economic Development Committee met on February 12, 2019 at 4:34 p.m. with Mayor Christiansen presiding. Members present were Mr. Cole, Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Hugg, Ms. Laird, Mrs. Adams and Mr. Hammond (arrived at 4:55 p.m.). Mr. Hare was absent. Councilman Anderson was also present (arrived at 4:57 p.m.). AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS Mayor Christiansen requested a change to the title of agenda Item #1 to Presentation - Food Innovation Project in Kent County. Mr. Hugg moved for approval of the agenda as amended, seconded by Mr. Cole and unanimously carried. Presentation - Food Innovation Project in Kent County (Tom Pribanic) Mayor Christiansen introduced Mr. Tom Pribanic as a pioneer of ILC space program and a longtime member of the Kent Economic Partnership (KEP). Mr. Pribanic provided members with a “Master List of Inventory Asset FID,” and “Food Innovation District, Kent County, Delaware, Feasibility Study,”. Mr. Pribanic stated that there was a Food Innovation District (FID) Initiative created by KEP, and the partnership included Delaware State University (DSU). He noted that Mr. Jim Waddington, KEP Director, and Dr. Michael Casson, DSU, came up with a game plan for the Food Innovation District. Mr. Pribanic stated that he hoped the City would take part in the initiative, take it over, or contact DSU to find a partnership to carry it forward. Mr. Pribanic stated that the Secretary of Agriculture needed help with bulk processing and the City could get involved with that, regarding City’s gardens. He noted that there is a big problem with agriculture, including finding mechanics to

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 9 work on farm equipment, including GPS systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and diesel engines. Mr. Pribanic informed members that the FID initiative was in Kent County’s Comprehensive Plan; however, KEP had chosen not to work with it due to the enormity of the program. He noted that it was not going to happen overnight and would require a lot of time and people. Mr. Hugg stated that during the course of the feasibility study, one (1) of the objectives was to identify locations in Kent County that were both public and private for commercial-scale kitchens, particularly those that were already in existence, or could be expanded. He noted that there is a model of a facility run by Rutgers University in Salem County, New Jersey, that provides a number of opportunities. Mr. Hugg stated that there were two (2) or three (3) kitchens of different sizes, and incubator businesses could use the kitchen on a contractual basis to work on their food-related product and they could work with the Food Innovation Facility for assistance with marketing and labeling. He noted that the intriguing part of the study was that there are potentially four (4) or five (5) commercial kitchens in the City of Dover that are in various degrees of use, the biggest one being DSU’s commercial kitchen which is not used very extensively. Mr. Hugg stated that the impetus behind the initial effort was to recognize the importance of agriculture and help develop agriculture away from just field crops to more specialty food products. He noted that he was unsure why KEP decided not to continue to pursue this notion. Mr. Pribanic stated that the big picture is the FID and taking elements out of that, like gardens, for the startup of the incubator. He explained that he has looked at the whole project from seed to feed, and everything in between and could provide members with additional information or direct them to people who would be interested in working with the City. Mr. Pribanic stated that he would also call Dr. Casson to see if DSU was still interested in this initiative. Mr. Hugg stated that he thought the real question was whether this is an appropriate and legitimate function in which the City should be involved. He noted that the City’s Comprehensive Plan clearly mentions a policy that deals with the notion of adequate food and access to food, particularly in some of the low- and moderate-income neighborhoods where getting fresh produce and products is extremely difficult. Mr. Hugg stated that the City promotes other kinds of economic activity, so he thought it would be appropriate for the City to work with DSU or whomever to promote the development and establishment of a food hub with facilities and marketing. He stated that he thought Mr. Pribanic’s offer to meet with Dr. Casson would be the next step in the process because, without DSU in an active role, he does not think it would be appropriate. Mr. Hugg advised that he would not recommend that the City try and do something of this nature alone. Mr. Pribanic stated that DSU has done a lot of work so far and the City could use the existing information as a template for its own design.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 10 Mayor Christiansen stated that he thinks the City’s ability to develop partnerships with other entities has made it successful. He indicated that he thought this initiative would provide a training ground for young chefs and entrepreneurs who may want to open businesses in Dover. Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Pribanic stated that he would contact Dr. Casson and ask him to contact Mayor Christiansen or Mr. Hugg. Mr. Pribanic noted that Ms. Sarah Keifer, Director of Planning Services for Kent County, put the initiative in the Kent County Comprehensive Plan because she wants to see it happen and that she would be another person to contact. Mr. Hugg noted that there was a piece of property owned by the Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP) on the west side of the railroad tracks, just off Forest Avenue, that was studied by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a potential aquaponics, hydroponics, or urban agriculture complex that ties into this notion of creating a food network. He stated that the project was in limbo, the DDP had submitted information to the EPA for it, and it has been listed as a potential opportunity zone investment project. Ms. Laird stated that it has been Ms. Tina Bradbury’s, DDP Operations and Program Manager, project, and she believed that Ms. Bradbury had been working with Dr. Casson and DSU. Draft 2019 Comprehensive Plan, Chapter 10 - Economic Development Plan During the Economic Development Committee Meeting of January 15, 2019, the Committee did not take any action in regard to the Draft 2019 Comprehensive Plan, Chapter 10 - Economic Development Plan but scheduled it for consideration during their meeting scheduled for February 12, 2019 for further review, comments, and endorsement. Mr. Dave Hugg, Director of Planning and Community Development, reviewed a revised version of the Draft 2019 Comprehensive Plan, Chapter 10 - Economic Development Plan, dated January 9, 2019. He stated that he had not received any comments from members since their January meeting, and staff was preparing to release the document for public review. Responding to Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Hugg stated that he had received her changes. He noted that the comments he received early on, including Mrs. Mitchell’s, were incorporated in the revised draft. Mr. Tom Pribanic recommended the addition of a strengths, weakness, opportunities, and threat (SWOT) analysis. He noted that they did a SWOT analysis at the Kent Economic Partnership (KEP) and were able to use it to prioritize their strategic planning. He also recommended that the City interview leaders of companies that decide to leave the Dover area. Mr. Pribanic stated that the City may be able to gain valuable information regarding how to retain the next tenant. He recommended identifying the type of industry and the type of incentives the City would offer. Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Hugg stated that he was sure there was a way to include Mr. Pribanic’s recommendations. He explained that the intent was to have

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 11 open-ended goals and objections, but he would certainly reference these recommendations. Mr. Hammond stated he would like community economic development included in the plan. He noted that when you look at what’s transpiring in the City, issues like community development are really driven by the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and the City’s allocation is very minuscule. Mr. Hammond stated that there really has been no focus on community economic development, noting that it had primarily been facilitated by community development corporations. He indicated that this was a way for community residents to get involved in economic development activities. Mr. Hammond stated that he could provide additional information regarding this topic. He noted that this would be helpful since he thought there were issues in the community that are not addressed by a major comprehensive economic plan. Mayor Christiansen asked Mr. Hugg to work on the verbiage to including Mr. Hammond’s recommendation in the final draft. Councilman Anderson stated that he thought that the work done on the Comprehensive Plan was tremendous and it was a very well thought out document. He asked that Goal 2 more explicitly indicate workforce development targeted toward the citizens of that particular area to make sure there is more economic opportunity. Mr. Anderson noted that Goal 1 included implicit language regarding workforce development under Recommendation 1.3; however, he did not think that was the only place where workforce development takes place. He stated that it is a larger partnership that occurs with the Department of Employment and Training. Mr. Anderson advised that there are many grants and, if the Committee is interested, he would forward the information. He stated that one of the most important parts of attracting businesses is that they believe they have a workforce with the skills for which they are searching. Mr. Anderson stated that when it comes to Goal 4, being a little more explicit about reclaiming abandoned properties, vacant and brown fields would probably be something that would be very positive. Mr. Hugg advised members that, hopefully within the next month or so, the entire plan would be presented to the Planning Commission, the public, and finally to City Council. He explained that the Comprehensive Plan has 12 Chapters and eight (8) of them have specific goals and objectives, so the goals in Chapter 10 might make more sense when members read them in the context of the entire Plan. In regard to Councilman Anderson’s suggestions, Mr. Hugg stated that workforce development was covered in another area of the Plan; however, he thought some of the wording was previously struck, so he would review that section again as well. Mayor Christiansen stated that he thought that work ethic would be a great part of the workforce development. The Committee recommended approval of the Draft 2019 Comprehensive Plan, Chapter 10 - Economic Development Plan to include comments made by the Committee members, Councilman Anderson, and Mr. Pribanic.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 12 By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote. Mr. Hugg extended sincere appreciation to Mrs. Adams for the recent purchase of a building downtown that he thinks will be a magnificent improvement to the community. He noted that Mrs. Adam’s firm, Mountain Engineering, bought four (4) properties that were previously various Simons’ stores downtown and her plan was to build offices and apartments, and potentially retail. Mr. Hugg stated that he thought it would be an awesome addition to downtown. By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for acceptance of the Economic Development Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote. COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT - MARCH 12, 2019 The Council Committee of the Whole met on March 12, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. with Council President Slavin presiding. Members of Council present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil, Mr. Cole, Mr. Polce, Mr. Hare, and Mr. Lindell (arrived at 6:05 p.m.). Mayor Christiansen was also present. Civilian members present for their Committee meetings were Mr. Caldwell and Dr. Warfield (Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement), and Mrs. Doyle and Mrs. Haass (Utility). Mr. Shevock (Legislative, Finance, and Administration) was absent. PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee met with Chairman Sudler presiding. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Semi-Annual Report Mrs. Tracey Harvey, Planner/Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Administrator, reviewed the CDBG Semi-Annual Report, September 2018 - February 2019. Staff recommended acceptance of the report. Mr. Neil noted that he was familiar with the Habitat for Humanities’ program, however, he asked how the other programs vet the individuals who will be receiving services. Responding, Mrs. Harvey explained that the National Council on Agricultural Life and Labor Research Fund, Inc. (NCALL) ensures that individuals are eligible for the Homeownership Assistance Program and then refers them to the City. She noted that lending institutions also make referrals. Mrs. Harvey stated that the other sub-grantees each have their own methods of outreach for obtaining clients. She indicated that individuals typically contact her regarding the Homeownership Assistance Program and she advises them to contact NCALL in order to complete homeownership counseling. She also recommends that individuals contact the sub-grantees to find out what is available that will meet their needs. Mrs. Harvey

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 13 noted that NCALL has Restoring Central Dover which is also building affordable houses. In response to Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Harvey explained that the Emergency Home Repairs Program is run by the Milford Housing Development Corporation (MHDC) and individuals are required to submit their income so MHDC can determine their eligibility. She stated that MHDC did apply for funding for FY 19, noting that Habitat for Humanity and Connections Community Support Program did not submit applications for the FY 19 program year because they still have FY 18 funding that needs to be spent. Mr. Polce noted that the CDBG grant is federally funded and asked if there are criteria in the assessment phase that are required by the federal government or if they allow flexibility to be given to the local jurisdiction. Responding, Mrs. Harvey stated that there is no flexibility with the federal government; however, she noted that they do allow the City to manage the programs in regard to how the sub-grantees are chosen. She advised that the City selects sub-grantees for the new Consolidated Plan every five (5) years, explaining that the sub-grantees are interviewed by the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee and approved by City Council. Mr. Polce stated that he works with federal grants every day and typically has to demonstrate efficacy through an assessment tool, like a logic model or key performance indicator rubric, in order to receive the funding. He indicated that it would be interesting to see what the $40,000 appropriated to Program Administration is actually going to and whether it could be utilized in a more effective way. Mr. Polce stated that he knew that would be a burden to Mrs. Harvey, as the administrator; however, he indicated that he thought that if Council had the flexibility, they should incorporate greater evaluation methods for the next five-year Consolidated Plan. The Committee recommended acceptance of the report, as recommended by staff. By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Application Review Mrs. Tracey Harvey, Planner/Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Administrator, reviewed her memo to the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee, dated March 12, 2019, regarding CDBG Grant Recommendations for FY 2019. Staff recommended approval of the recommended funding amounts. In response to Mayor Christiansen, Mrs. Harvey advised that Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing and Central Delaware Housing Collaborative was part of Interfaith Mission for Housing, was incorporated, and had a 501c3.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 14 Responding to Mr. Hare, Mrs. Harvey stated that the property to be rehabilitated by Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing and Central Delaware Housing Collaborative was located at 801 West Division Street, noting that it was the former Aid in Dover building. She stated that she thought they were about to go under contract. Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Dave Hugg, Director of Planning and Community Development, advised that the conditional use for the property located at 801 West Division Street had expired. He indicated that Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing and Central Delaware Housing Collaborative was aware that they would have to begin the process of applying for conditional approval to use the property as they have designated. Mayor Christiansen asked how they could apply for the CDBG grant if this contingency had not yet been met. In response, Mr. Hugg stated that since it is a forward-looking grant and Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing and Central Delaware Housing Collaborative is in the process of obtaining the property, staff felt that it was appropriate for them to proceed with the grant application, noting that hopefully they would get through their rezoning and related approvals relatively quickly but certainly within the grant period. Mayor Christiansen asked whether these funds would be available to another entity that might apply, if the Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing and Central Delaware Housing Collaborative project doesn’t come to fruition. Responding, Mrs. Harvey explained that, in the event that it is not approved, the remainder of the funds will be allocated to the Homeownership Assistance Program because that is the most popular program. The Committee recommended approval of the recommended funding amounts, as recommended by staff. By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote. UTILITY COMMITTEE The Utility Committee met with Chairman Cole presiding. Evaluation of Proposals - Electric Engineering Services Mr. Jim Robinson, Electric Director, reviewed the background and analysis regarding the evaluation of proposals for electric engineering services. He stated that this is a valuable resource for the Electric Department, noting that it will be particularly valuable with regard to the City-wide substation assessment program. Mr. Robinson advised that the City has strong engineers on staff; however, it is nice to be able to utilize this valuable engineering services resource for certain areas of expertise. He stated that this is a three-year contract, with the option for two (2), one-year extensions, provided that the performance is satisfactory. Mr. Robinson informed members that this service is used very wisely and with great care, noting that the average expenditure was approximately $20,000 in the past four (4) years.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 15 Mr. Robinson advised that Pike Engineering had the lowest overall total and, since the City had worked with them for a long time, they would not need to be brought up to speed in understanding the City’s system. Staff recommended awarding the blanket Engineering Services – Electric contract to Pike Engineering under the terms submitted by them in response to RFP #19-0013EL. The Committee recommended approval of staff’s recommendation. By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote. LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee met with Chairman Hare presiding. Proposed Amendments to By-Laws - Downtown Dover Partnership The Committee deferred consideration of this item until the next Council Committee of the Whole/Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee meeting. By consent agenda, Mr. Hare moved for acceptance of the Council Committee of the Whole Report, seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote. CITY MANAGER'S ANNOUNCEMENTS Mrs. Donna Mitchell, City Manager, announced that they were still paving on Hope Street and New Street and the Lakewood Place water main replacement project was still in active construction. Mrs. Mitchell announced that Spring Clean Up would be from April 1st through April 12th and water flushing would be March 24th through April 12th. COUNCIL MEMBERS' ANNOUNCEMENTS Mr. Slavin announced Councilman Cole’s birthday on March 27th. Mr. Sudler announced that he would be hosting a suicide prevention awareness forum on March 28, 2019 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. the Council Chambers at City Hall. Mr. Hare announced that there would be a fundraiser for the Hope Medical Clinic on March 28, 2019 at the Modern Maturity Center. He noted that they provide medical, dental, and eye care for people without insurance. Mr. Lindell stated that he went running around Silver Lake and other parts of downtown Dover and he saw families of all races and ages enjoying the park Sunday. He noted that he feels the park is safe.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 25, 2019 PAGE 16 Mr. Cole commended each member of the Parks and Recreation staff for providing low-cost, very effective programs, for all of the citizens in and out of Dover. Mr. Anderson stated that he was looking forward to the suicide prevention awareness forum. He noted that he did not think they should close the park but felt that they needed more monitoring after the park is closed. Mr. Anderson said that he and Mr. Sudler strongly support the City of Dover Police Department and that they can be trusted. Mr. Polce stated that he appreciated that Councilman Sudler was refocusing the March 28th meeting and suggested that the National Alliance of Mental Illness of Delaware (NAMI) would be a very helpful advocate for the suicide prevention agenda. Mr. Neil moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Cole and unanimously carried. Meeting adjourned at 8:13 p.m. TRACI A. McDOWELL CITY CLERK All ordinances, resolutions, motions, and orders adopted by City Council during their Regular Meeting of March 25, 2019, are hereby approved. ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN MAYOR /TM S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\Council-Minutes\2019\03-25-2019 Council Minutes.wpd