This text was pulled from the PDF automatically and may contain mistakes. The PDF is the official record, so check it before relying on this.
1 page has little or no readable text here, often scans or drawings. See the PDF for those.
Page 1
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular Council Meeting was held on May 23, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. with Council President Slavin
presiding. Council members present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sudler, Mr. Neil, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Cole,
Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Hare, and Mr. Hutchison.
Council staff members present were Deputy Police Chief Mailey, Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Koenig,
Mrs. Townshend (departed at 7:34 p.m., and returned at 7:36 p.m.), Fire Chief Carey, City Solicitor
Rodriguez, and Mrs. McDowell. Mayor Christiansen (departed at 7:56 p.m.) was also present.
OPEN FORUM
The Open Forum was held at 7:15 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. Ronald Harmon, 1427 New Burton Road, stated that he and his wife own a self-storage business
on New Burton Road. He explained that approximately five (5) years ago, he purchased two (2)
pieces of property on Webbs Lane. The smaller of the two (2) properties had remained on the market
for the past five (5) years and last year a potential buyer contacted him. Mr. Harmon explained that
the potential buyer wanted to extend the property line, so he began that process in November 2015.
He stated that he became frustrated because it is a long process, noting that he received final
approval from the City in March 2016. Mr. Harmon thanked Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director
of Planning and Community Development, for returning his call on Friday, May 20, 2016 and
offering to work directly with the potential buyer regarding the property. He also thanked
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, for returning his call in regard to his concerns pertaining to sewer
impact fees. Mr. Harmon stated that he did not realize that the property had a septic system and was
not connected to City sewer. He explained that there was a small building on the property with one
(1) toilet and one (1) sink and expressed concern regarding his impact fee of $8,400. Mr. Harmon
stated that Mr. Koenig explained the impact fee to him and he did not have any questions regarding
it but questioned whether Council could reduce the taxes for his mini storage for a few years in order
for him to recover the cost.
The invocation was given by Chaplain Wallace Dixon, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Hutchison moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously
carried.
Mayor Christiansen requested that item #10-A-1 - Reappointments/Appointments - Recommended
by Mayor Christiansen - Planning Commission - Three (3) Year Terms to Expire June 1, 2019 -
Kathleen Welsh - First District (Reappointment) be deferred.
Mr. Anderson requested that item #4-B-7 - Progress Report on the Youth Advisory Committee’s
Reporting of Their Minutes, be removed from the Consent Agenda.
Page 2
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 2
Mr. Lewis requested that item #4-B-4 - Proposed Ordinance #2016-10 Amending Chapter 2 -
Administration, Article IV - Officers and Employees, Division 8 - Deferred Compensation Plan, be
removed from the Consent Agenda.
Mr. Anderson requested that item #4-B-5 - Evaluation of Trial Period for Council Committee of the
Whole Meetings (Council Resolution No. 2015-16), be removed from the Consent Agenda.
Mr. Lewis moved for approval of the Consent Agenda, as amended, seconded by Mr. Neil and
carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - ANNUAL COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 9, 2016
The Minutes of the Annual Council Meeting of May 9, 2016 were unanimously approved by
motion of Mr. Lewis, seconded by Mr. Neil and bore the written approval of
Mayor Christiansen.
CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION - SOLID ROCK BAPTIST CHURCH
The City Clerk read the following Certificate of Appreciation into the record:
CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION
presented to
Solid Rock Baptist Church
for opening your facility
to provide space for community meetings
Your generous hospitality has enhanced community engagement in the City of Dover.
May 23, 2016
On behalf of the Mayor and Council, Mayor Christiansen and Councilmen Anderson and Sudler
presented the Certificate to Reverend William Grimes and Reverend Ricky Hardy.
Mr. Anderson expressed his thanks to these churches for opening their facilities free of charge to the
community.
Reverend Grimes thanked members of Council for the wonderful award and being able to partner
with the City, noting that it’s team work that makes the dream work.
Reverend Hardy stated that it was an honor to have the neighborhood watch help celebrate the new
community center, noting that they are diligent in their Wednesday and Thursday meetings. He
stated the church was glad to have the neighborhood watch, which is doing good work in
collaboration with the Police and Public Works Departments. Reverend Hardy expressed his thanks
and noted that everyone working together as one City is a good thing.
Page 3
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 3
CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION - MT. ZION A.M.E. CHURCH
The City Clerk read the following Certificate of Appreciation into the record:
CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION
presented to
Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church
for opening your facility
to provide space for community meetings
Your generous hospitality has enhanced community engagement in the City of Dover.
May 23, 2016
On behalf of the Mayor and Council, Mayor Christiansen and Councilman Anderson presented the
Certificate to Councilman Sudler on behalf of Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church.
On behalf of Pastor Ellis B. Louden, Councilman Sudler expressed appreciation to the City of Dover
for the certificate.
CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION - UNION MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH
The City Clerk read the following Certificate of Appreciation into the record:
CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION
presented to
Union Missionary Baptist Church
for opening your facility
to provide space for community meetings
Your generous hospitality has enhanced community engagement in the City of Dover.
May 23, 2016
On behalf of the Mayor and Council, Mayor Christiansen and Councilmen Anderson and Sudler
presented the Certificate to Reverend R. G. Moore’s representative, who thanked Mr. Anderson and
Mr. Sudler for being active members of the community.
Mr. Cole moved to suspend the rules. The motion was seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously
carried.
Page 4
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 4
CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION - TRACI A. MCDOWELL
Mayor Christiansen read the following Certificate of Recognition into the record:
CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION
presented to
Traci A. McDowell
in honor of her 10th Anniversary as
City Clerk for the City of Dover
Traci A. McDowell has served as an exemplary City Clerk since May 17, 2006, and her dedication
to public service, selflessness, and talents continue to increase the quality of life for our citizens.
By keeping abreast of laws, regulations, and pertinent professional knowledge she upholds the
integrity of the City of Dover and we are proud of her accomplishment in earning her Master
Municipal Clerk designation through the International Institute of Municipal Clerks.
May 23, 2016
On behalf of the Mayor and Council, Mayor Christiansen and Council President Slavin presented
the Certificate to Mrs. McDowell.
PRESENTATION BY THE URBAN LEAGUE (DR. SHEKELIA HINES)
Dr. Shekelia Hines reviewed a presentation entitled “Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League
(MWUL) Dover Committee” (Exhibit #1), explaining that the Dover Committee of the Urban
League was brand new and she was present to spread the word and create awareness, in order to
work together with the local government to fill the needs of the community.
Referring to Page 10 of the presentation, Dr. Hines reviewed the Dover Committee Young
Professional’s (YP’s) accomplishments. She explained that the Dover Committee began in
March 2015 and in April, the Committee held a campaign bootcamp training, which covered the ins
and outs of how to run a campaign, including research, background, marketing, fund-raising,
promotion, and mail media. Dr. Hines stated that in May, the Committee held an education event
and invited high school juniors and seniors to speak with individuals regarding the transition into
college.
Dr. Hines noted that in the upcoming year, the Committee would be looking at working with local
businesses to find out what the needs are, so that they can work with city government to improve
their conditions. She stated that the Committee was also looking at doing a community organizing
training in September.
Dr. Hines informed members that the Urban League is a resource which is known for its research.
She explained that, in the past, the League had done many reports and worked together with local
government. Dr. Hines stated that, for example, Lisa Blunt Rochester had worked for
Governor Ruth Ann Minner and, when she became the Urban League President, she used her skills
Page 5
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 5
and knowledge from her previous position to form a report for the city in social change and
awareness in education. Similarly, when Mr. James Gilliam, Sr., founder of the Urban League, was
Director of Housing and Urban Development, he developed a report and presented it to government
to use to better the housing situation in Wilmington.
Mr. Hosfelt moved to suspend the rules to allow members of the public in attendance to ask
questions regarding this matter. The motion was seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously
carried.
Mr. Chevis Anderson noted that he had the opportunity to attend some of the Urban League’s events
and they are a great organization. He commended Dr. Hines for bringing the group to Dover.
Mr. Hutchison welcomed Dr. Hines and the Urban League to Dover, noting that the age group that
the League is reaching out to is in need.
Dr. Hines stated that the Urban League Dover Committee meetings would be held the first
Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. at Delaware State University.
Mr. Slavin noted that if Dr. Hines was bringing the work of Mr. James Gilliam, Sr. to the Dover
community, she was doing a great job.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT - MAY 10, 2016
The Council Committee of the Whole Meeting was held on May 10, 2016 at 6:00
p.m. with Council President Slavin presiding (departed at 6:34 p.m., returned at 6:35 p.m.,
departed at 8:02 and returned at 8:04 p.m.). Members of Council present were
Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sudler (departed at 6:34 p.m., returned at 6:39 p.m., and departed at
8:02 p.m.), Mr. Neil, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Cole, Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Hare, and Mr. Hutchison
(departed at 8:23 p.m. and returned at 8:25 p.m.). Mayor Christiansen was also present
(departed at 6:37, returned at 7:18 p.m., and departed at 8:30 p.m.). Civilian members present
for their Committee meetings were Mr. Keller and Mr. Shelton (Safety Advisory and
Transportation), Mr. Caldwell and Mrs. Horsey (Parks, Recreation, and Community
Enhancement), and Mr. Shevock and Ms. Maucher (Legislative, Finance, and
Administration).
SPECIAL SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
The Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee met with Councilman Hosfelt
presiding.
Review of Position Description/Requirements - City Fire Marshal (Inspector III)
Mr. Hosfelt reminded members that this item was deferred during the Council
Committee of the Whole/Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee meeting of
April 26, 2016 due to time constraints.
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development,
stated that the main issue under deliberation was whether or not the person hired for
Page 6
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 6
the City Fire Marshal (Inspector III) position needed to have certification from the
Council on Police Training (COPT). She explained that in the past 25 years, only
two (2) people in the Fire Marshal’s Office (FMO) had COPT training, one (1) of
whom was Mr. Timothy Mullaney, the previous Fire Marshal who had transferred to
the Dover Police Department. Mrs. Townshend indicated that Mr. Mullaney was sent
to the Police Academy to take some of the stress off the Police Department. She
noted that the FMO is first and foremost an inspections office with three (3) staff
members. Mrs. Townshend estimated that 90% of the workload is related to
inspections, plan review, and following up on complaints, and approximately 10%
is related to fire investigation. She expressed her concern that if COPT certification
is required, this would likely come at the cost of not having National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA) Inspector I certification. Since the nature of the position is
primarily fire inspections, fire plan review, and the prevention of fire,
Mrs. Townshend felt that the City would end up with candidates that do not meet
both of these qualifications; therefore, too much emphasis would be placed on the
police side of the position, which involves the smallest amount of the workload.
Mrs. Townshend informed members that staff had met with the Police Department,
who had agreed to work with the FMO on investigations. She indicated that staff
was also working with the State to see if constable authority could be designated to
the Fire Marshal, which would allow for detaining people when conducting
investigations. Even without police training and certification, Mrs. Townshend
assured members that fire marshals are trained in fire investigation, including arson.
She felt it important to ensure that the City recruits and hires in the best interest of
the City and the office as a whole, rather than for a narrow portion of the job at the
expense of a large portion.
Mr. Jason Osika, Inspector II, explained that the FMO is a small office with two (2)
deputies, himself and Mr. Matthew Brown, Inspector I, who are not COPT certified,
and one (1) vacant position. Mr. Osika reiterated that there had been only two (2)
fire marshals who were COPT certified in the past 25 years. He noted that
Mr. James Melvin attended the Police Academy run by the Dover Police Department
in 1992 and he left the office in 1993. Mr. Osika advised that Mr. Timothy Mullaney
attended the Academy in November 2011 and left the office in April 2016. He stated
that the three (3) FMO staff members share all duties, including plan review,
inspections, and origin and cause investigations, whereas employees in other offices,
such as the State FMO, perform only one (1) of these functions. Mr. Osika stated
that although fire investigations take approximately 10% of their workload, this
variable could change at any time. He informed members that having one (1) COPT
officer would not guarantee this individual’s presence in the office 100% of the time
due to vacations. Mr. Osika noted that he previously handled an arson fire through
the Dover Police Department Criminal Investigation Unit when Mr. Mullaney was
away from the office. He explained that the FMO staff uses the Law Enforcement
Information Sharing System (LEISS) used by the Dover Police Department, entering
and approving their own reports. Mr. Osika indicated that, since Mr. Mullaney’s
transfer, there is a temporary agreement with the Police Department to use the
Page 7
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 7
Criminal Investigation Unit whenever the FMO has a criminal fire. He advised that
101 fires were investigated in 2015, 13 of which were classified as incendiary and
resulted in four (4) arrests. There were also four (4) incidents involving juveniles and
one (1) involving mental capacity which was declined for prosecution by the
Attorney General’s Office. Mr. Osika advised members that in 2016 there had been
38 fires, seven (7) of which were incendiary with one (1) arrest, and arrest came
under Mr. Osika with the use of the Dover Police Department. He indicated that the
Fire Marshal would use COPT certification a very small percentage of the time.
Mr. Osika explained that losing one (1) individual in the FMO has a huge impact,
noting that staff was now on call 24 hours and off 24 hours coming into the summer.
Mr. Osika felt that if COPT were required, there would be a large chance of constant
turnover due to the salary and benefits, expressing his belief that this was one (1)
reason why Mr. Mullaney was no longer with the FMO. He indicated that the Fire
Marshal position has Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) powers. Mr. Osika
informed members that the Fire Marshal signs off on everything relating to codes,
such as NFPA codes, and this is one (1) of the main responsibilities of the position.
He stated that he had provided staff information on other classes that could be
required for this position. Mr. Osika advised that Mr. David Truax, former City of
Dover Fire Marshal, had served as Fire Marshal for 18 years without COPT and
Mr. Osika believed that the City had one of its largest arson periods under Mr. Truax
in the late 1990's.
Mr. Osika requested that the Committee and Council not require COPT but indicate
that it would be preferred, since COPT use is related to arrests and crimes and the
remaining work involves investigations, NFPA, and plan review. Mr. Osika felt that
the best candidate would be an individual with NFPA, COPT, Fire Inspector I, and
Origin and Cause training from the National Fire Academy; however, he felt there
was a very small chancing of finding such an individual and if COPT was required,
there would be a good chance of losing out on the 90% of other things needed for
day-to-day operations.
Mayor Christiansen stated that the office of Fire Marshal was established in 1959 and
there had been only two (2) COPT certified Fire Marshals over the course of time,
noting that some of the other Fire Marshals had also been past chiefs of Robbins
Hose Company. Mayor Christiansen advised members that he sits on the Council on
Police Training (COPT) and believed that the qualifications for COPT did not
necessarily coincide with the City of Dover Fire Marshal. He felt it would be
wonderful to have a COPT certified individual but that it exceeded the qualifications
needed.
Mrs. Kimberly Hawkins, Human Resources Director, informed members that the
City’s Inspector III position description applied to two (2) positions within the City,
the Fire Marshal and the Code Enforcement Supervisor.
Page 8
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 8
In response to Mr. Sudler, Mrs. Hawkins expressed her belief, based on what
Mr. Osika had explained about the position, that knowledge of the NFPA code would
be a requirement for the Fire Marshal, noting that she had not studied this.
Mrs. Townshend explained that the Code Enforcement Supervisor Inspector III
has certification through the International Property Maintenance Code and
Mr. Timothy Taraila serves in this position.
Mrs. Hawkins noted that the Fire Marshal would have NFPA certification.
Mr. Anderson pointed out that the position description required national certification
in one (1) of the major areas of responsibility, including basic building code,
plumbing code, mechanical systems, fire protection systems, and property
maintenance, and that the Fire Marshal could qualify with plumbing code
certification and not be certified in fire protection systems. He asked if it would
make sense to require a separate description for the Fire Marshal position that
includes at least two (2) certifications, with one (1) being fire protection systems.
Responding, Mrs. Hawkins stated that City job descriptions were created in the past
by the Management Advisory Group, Inc. who reviewed Positional Analysis Factors
(PAF) for City positions and they are very generic. She explained that they are
reviewed and updated to meet the needs of the position by the Human Resources
Department and department heads when recruiting and creating job postings.
Mrs. Hawkins advised that once Council makes a decision regarding the Fire Marshal
position, staff will review and adjust the job descriptions for the Code Enforcement
Supervisor and the Fire Marshal accordingly or create a new job description if it is
desired to change the title to Fire Marshal rather than Inspector III. She stated that
if the Inspector III title is retained, the current job description would be used as a
shell, noting that staff had been inserting language that specifies the requirements for
the position in the FMO.
Mr. Neil reminded members that the Operational and Administrative Analysis -
Dover Fire Department, Dover, Del. - Final Report - March 2016 (Operational and
Administration Analysis) had referenced the Fire Marshal position, and he felt this
report must be taken into consideration in deciding what to do. He questioned if the
citizens of the City would be endangered in any way if this position were left open
and, if so, his inclination was to approve recruiting but to review the position when
the report was considered and make changes for the successor at that time.
Mr. Anderson stated that Council had appointed an Interim Fire Marshal during their
meeting of May 9, 2016; therefore, the position was covered in the interim.
Responding, Mr. Slavin stated that the position was covered but the FMO was still
down a position. Mr. Hosfelt noted that the deputies were on call more often and
there was a lot more stress on the Fire Marshal’s Office.
Mr. Hutchison stated the importance of listening to the City Planner, who works with
the fire marshals and the inspectors and knows the office, noting that she had given
Page 9
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 9
clear direction on the type of person and guidelines that should be followed. He felt
that members should do what was recommended by staff. Mr. Hutchison indicated
that someone with both fire investigation and fire service background was needed.
Mr. David Truax, 35 Upland Avenue, advised that he served as City of Dover Fire
Marshal from 1996 until May of 2014.
Mr. Sudler questioned if Mr. Truax believed that creating a new job description
specific to the Fire Marshal would be more effective than continuing to use the
Inspector III job description for this office. Responding, Mr. Truax indicated his
preference for a new job description for the Fire Marshal, explaining that this had
been discussed for a long time. Mr. Truax felt that the job description for the Fire
Marshal differs from what the building inspector does, noting that it may be possible
to modify the Inspector III position description.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mr. Truax expressed his opinion that some certifications
should be required for the Fire Marshal.
Mr. Hare suggested that COPT could be a preferred certification, but he felt that there
must be some knowledge and certifications required to be the Fire Marshal.
Mr. Truax concurred with Mr. Hare, explaining that he felt that the City was past the
point where they should require the Fire Marshal to be certified to carry a gun.
Mr. Truax expressed his opinion that if the FMO were to go back to doing things
with the Police Department, the individual who oversees criminal investigations must
make sure that the police detectives work with the Fire Marshal and take the Fire
Marshal’s input seriously. Mr. Truax suggested making COPT training preferred and
stressed the importance of getting someone at the helm of the FMO within a
reasonable amount of time.
Mrs. Townshend stated that she did not believe there should be a delay in posting this
position. She acknowledged that this position was part of the public safety study;
however, she felt recruitment could be done in such a way that implementation of the
study would not be precluded. Mrs. Townshend reiterated that there were two (2)
employees on an on-call rotation of 24 hours on and 24 hours off, and this was
affecting the workload in the office and their personal lives. In regard to the job
description, Mrs. Townshend stated that she, Mrs. Hawkins, and Mr. Scott Koenig,
City Manager, were prepared to create a Fire Marshal position separate from the
Inspector III position. She emphasized that certifications had always been required
when this position had been posted in the past. When Mr. Mullaney took the
position, it was posted as NFPA Inspector I required, COPT certification preferred,
and staff was prepared to post it in this way for the current vacancy. Although the
position description had some flexibility to include information relevant to both the
code enforcement and fire marshal positions, staff had always ensured that the
postings included the specific skill sets needed for each position.
Page 10
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 10
In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Mrs. Townshend stated that staff’s recommendation was
to use the same posting they used when Mr. Mullaney was hired as Fire Marshal,
with COPT preferred but not required.
Mr. Koenig requested that the issue be referred to administrative staff to refine the
job description and post accordingly. He stated that the Fire Marshal’s position was
envisioned in the public safety study and he felt that staff could recruit knowing that
those things were under consideration. Mr. Koenig felt it important to get the posting
out and begin the process of recruitment to reduce the impact on the current staff.
Referencing Mr. Hare’s concerns regarding certifications related to this position,
Mr. Sudler questioned what additions Mr. Truax would recommend for the job
description. Responding, Mr. Truax stated that he had not seen the job description
and felt that Human Resources staff, Mrs. Townshend, and the current FMO staff
should be able to determine the requirements. He noted that code enforcement and
fire investigation should be included, or that time be allowed for this training.
The Committee recommended referring this matter to staff to develop an appropriate
job description and post the position accordingly.
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis 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.
Transfer of Real Property from Delaware Civic Center Corporation to
Delaware State University
During their meeting of May 9, 2016, City Council approved the Council Committee
of the Whole/Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee’s recommendation
that Delaware State University (DSU) present the Committee with a proposal for City
Council to transfer the property to DSU.
Mr. Slavin moved to recommend referring this item directly to City Council without
a recommendation and continuing the deliberation on the Council floor 13 days
hence. The motion was seconded by Mr. Sudler.
Mr. Anderson questioned if members would hear from the people present at the
meeting in regard to this matter. Responding, Mr. Slavin stated that there would be
a full vetting of the issue at the City Council meeting.
Mr. Sudler called for the question. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hutchison
and carried with Mr. Anderson voting no.
Page 11
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 11
The Committee recommended referring this item directly to City Council without a
recommendation and continuing the deliberation on the Council floor 13 days hence.
During the Council meeting, Mr. Slavin reminded members that this issue had been before Council
a couple of times and was recently discussed by the Council Committee of the Whole. He stated that
the City Clerk had researched this issue thoroughly, members had debated it for hours, and it was
thoroughly vetted at the Committee level. Mr. Slavin stated that this land is not owned by the City
of Dover, explaining that a vote of a previous Council ceded the land to the Civic Center
Corporation. He informed members that the request now before Council was to simply waive the
City’s right of first refusal back to the land and allow DSU to use the land, for what he thinks is a
very good purpose.
Mr. Slavin explained that this Council is not bound by a previous Council’s decision; however, he
believed that the previous decision was sound at the time. He felt that DSU could now do something
with the land far better than the City could ever have imagined. Mr. Slavin expressed his opinion
that Council should support this request, given the contributions that DSU and their alumni have
made and continue to make in the community.
Mr. Sudler moved that the City of Dover hereby waives, terminates, and renounces any rights it may
have in the property conveyed to the Dover Civic Center Corporation, a Delaware Corporation by
deed, dated December 11, 2001, pending the signing of a memorandum of understanding between
the City of Dover and Delaware State University pertaining to utility easements. The motion was
seconded by Mr. Hare.
Mr. Hosfelt questioned why the City is in this position if the City has no right to the land.
Responding, Mr. Slavin stated his understanding that the land is still owned by the Civic Center
Corporation, which is still a legal corporate entity in the State of Delaware.
Mr. David Sheppard, General Counsel for DSU, stated that in response to some of the questions
raised during the Council Committee of the Whole/Legislative, Finance, and Administration
Committee Meeting of April 26, 2016, he prepared a letter dated May 20, 2016, regarding the
prospective relinquishment of the City of Dover’s transfer right in the Delaware Civic Center
Corporation land, which was submitted to Council President Slavin (Exhibit #2).
Mr. Hosfelt, referring to the Delaware State University Convocation Center Final Report that was
presented during the August 24, 2015 Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee meeting,
requested confirmation that DSU planned to hold approximately 170 events per year. Responding,
Mr. Sheppard stated that the range provided was between 144 and 173.
Mr. Hosfelt asked if DSU felt that it should not pay any taxes, noting his assumption that this would
be a money making venture. In response, Mr. Sheppard explained that the intent of developing a
convocation center had various purposes, including a place for DSU to hold sporting events and
graduations. He stated that there certainly should be revenue generated as a consequence of holding
University affiliated events or other events at the facility. Mr. Sheppard expressed his opinion that
the City, as well as DSU, would benefit from these events, whether in terms of jobs, the taxes paid
Page 12
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 12
by people who are employed full-time, or businesses located in the City that get traffic as a
consequence of the events.
Mr. Hosfelt noted that there was no guarantee that the people who would be employed would live
within the City. Responding, Mr. Sheppard stated that there was no guarantee of anything, as was
the case with the civic center when it was proposed and approved by City Council in 2001.
Mr. Hosfelt stated that his concern was that DSU was going to enter into a venture and hold up to
170 events per year with the hopes of making money and they will have to offset the costs somehow.
He explained that, across the street from DSU, there is a business that pays in excess of $250,000
per year in taxes to hold events and do things that are similar to what DSU wants to do. Mr. Hosfelt
did not believe that it would be fair to do for one (1) entity but not the other. He stated that if DSU
was strictly going to hold DSU events like basketball games and graduations, he might be able to
understand; however, DSU is planning to hold many other events and will make a profit at some
point. Mr. Hosfelt asked how, from DSU’s point of view, this would be fair to the other businesses
in the City who are in the same line of work.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Sheppard stated that he did not think it was fair or reasonable to
compare a non-profit higher education institution, whose fundamental focus is on educating the
students that come to the University and does not provide shares of stock to shareholders, to a
for-profit entity who regularly has people come through its doors to gamble. Referring to Dover
Downs Hotel and Casino, Mr. Sheppard noted that they are a for-profit venture, which has events
inside their facility as well as races, concerts, etc. It was his opinion that Dover Downs has a greater
material impact on resources, community members, etc. than DSU. Mr. Sheppard stated that DSU
has the benefit of having educated many people over many years, including some of the people
present, and he did not see DSU in the same vein as a for-profit enterprise.
Mr. Hosfelt noted that the Delaware State University Convocation Center Final Report estimates that
40% of the events will be for the college. He asked if the other 60% of the events would be for
profit. Mr. Sheppard confirmed that they would be. Mr. Hosfelt asked if it would be fair for DSU
to pay taxes on that 60%. Responding, Mr. Sheppard thought that the business that would be drawn
in from the events would be a benefit to the City, noting that the businesses who generate revenue
from those activities will pay taxes.
Mr. Hosfelt explained that the City was still utilizing its resources to support DSU and he was unsure
what the benefit would be for the City. He stated that there may be a benefit to the hotel or
restaurant industry, but to the Fire and Police Departments and the other public safety services within
the City, it would not be a benefit and would continue to tax the City’s resources. Mr. Hosfelt
indicated that DSU had $250M in property that they were not paying taxes on and Council would
be giving away even more property that would be untaxed.
Mr. Cole questioned if underground and above ground easements had been obtained. Responding,
Mr. Koenig explained that he had not read the letter that was referenced but had a conversation in
this regard with Mr. Sheppard.
Page 13
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 13
Mr. Slavin stated that there would likely be a second motion to authorize the City Manager to
negotiate this matter.
Mr. Cole questioned who would assume the environmental liabilities on the land moving forward.
Responding, Mr. Koenig stated his understanding that when the land was originally transferred to
the Delaware Civic Center Corporation, they assumed all of the liability related to environmental
conditions on the property. This is why there was concern at the administrative level that any
reversionary clause that would transfer a deed back into the City’s name would potentially transfer
that liability back to the City. Mr. Koenig understood that the City did not have liability associated
with the environmental conditions from the original transfer. He assumed that all of the closure
documents would be maintained and the City would not have liability going forward.
In response to Mr. Cole regarding a plan for the future of solar fields on seven (7) acres of the
property, Mr. Koenig stated that Mr. Harry Maloney, Electric Director, had provided Mr. Sheppard
a copy of the plan with a basic layout of a potential solar field. This would impact approximately
five (5) to seven (7) acres above the area where potential parking was planned. Mr. Koenig indicated
that it would be the City’s intent to pursue an easement and potentially construct a solar field there
to meet Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS).
Mr. Cole questioned if there was any type of Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program to help
offset any public safety costs. Responding, Mr. Koenig indicated that there had been general
discussion on this when he and Mr. Kirby Hudson, Assistant City Manager, had met with
Mr. Sheppard in February; however, there had been no additional discussion since.
Mr. Sheppard advised that DSU was not prepared to entertain a PILOT program at this time. He
indicated that it was inaccurate to state that there would be no benefit to the City if the transfer were
approved. Mr. Sheppard stated his understanding, from speaking with Mr. Koenig and from
Mr. Koenig’s presentation at the Council Committee of the Whole/Legislative Finance, and
Administration Committee meeting on April 26, 2016, that the City incurs about $5,000 a year, on
average, in maintaining the grounds, doing environmental assessments, and the like, which would
not be borne anymore if the land were transferred. In addition, Mr. Sheppard pointed out that the
environmental liability associated with the land would transfer to DSU and not be the City’s
responsibility.
Mr. Cole suggested that obtaining the easements and realizing the benefits of getting out of the
environmental liabilities might help the proposal move forward.
Mr. Koenig indicated that he had been on the record on several occasions stating, from an
administrative standpoint, that the City was not interested in taking back the environmental liability
associated with this property. For four (4) or five (5) years, staff had been authorizing the inspection
of the landfill cap by Compliance Environmental, asking them to prepare a report that is submitted
to the Department of Environmental Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), and
committing to doing grass cutting, mowing, rut filling, and disposal of any type of debris that had
been dumped there to maintain a good standing in the closure documents. He estimated that the out-
of-pocket expenses to pay the consultant and for staff time needed to inspect or assist with inspection
were approximately $3,000 - $5,000 per year.
Page 14
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 14
Mr. Hare stated that there had been discussion in the 1990's on transferring the property; however,
he recalled that the property was not transferred to the Civic Center until 2000 or 2001. At that time,
there was related discussion on charging a 25 cent ticket fee for non-DSU events which the City
would receive. Mr. Hare felt that something like this could be revisited in the future, noting that he
saw no benefit to the City keeping the property. He reminded members that the City had planned
to give the property away back then, and he did not believe anything had changed. Mr. Hare stated
that there was now a different party who was willing to take the property over, assume the liability,
and give the City easements. He questioned why the City would want a property that it had not had
for 15 years when it may be able to obtain something that would be a benefit. Mr. Hare felt the
transfer should move forward.
Mr. Anderson felt the convocation center was a very positive idea which would benefit the City. He
agreed with Mr. Hosfelt that there should not be a blanket assumption of a tax exemption.
Mr. Anderson questioned if the existing tax exemption to DSU included property owned in the future
or if members would have to vote separately in the future on whether to make the property tax
exempt. Responding, Mayor Christiansen believed that a decision on tax exemption would be made
once the property use is known.
Mr. Anderson asked if it would be appropriate to make an amendment in that regard at this time.
Mr. Slavin stated his preference to vote the motion up or down and have an additional vote after that
if necessary.
Mr. Anderson clarified that his question was whether an amendment ensuring that a tax exemption
is brought before Council on the property would be in order. In response, Mayor Christiansen
indicated that this would be in order; however, this would be a separate action that would have to
be taken in the future, depending on the use of the property.
Mr. Sudler questioned if Mr. Koenig’s estimate of $3,000 - $5,000 for staff and consultant time for
the property included the costs of the environmental liability, property tax, and insurance.
Responding, Mr. Koenig advised that, to his knowledge, the property was not listed in the City’s
property inventory, so it is not insured by the City and there was no insurance cost. He explained
that the environmental cost is to engage the consultant to go out with DNREC to do the inspection
and for the inspection report of the landfill, in accordance with the closure documents that the City
agreed to years ago. Mr. Koenig advised that if this property ultimately reverts to DSU, the
University will have to conduct the annual inspection with DNREC staff and make any adjustments
required by the report.
Mr. Sudler asked how much it would cost to insure the property in case someone were to be hurt on
it. In response, Mr. Koenig stated that he did not come prepared to answer that question. He noted
that the property would become part of the City’s overall property inventory.
Mr. Hare felt that Mr. Anderson had made a good point regarding tax exemption for the property;
however, he still felt the property should be transferred to DSU. Once the convocation center is
built, if there were many events held that were not related to the University, this matter could be
considered again. Mr. Hare noted that DSU had a lot of work ahead of them and questioned if they
Page 15
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 15
were ready to break ground. Responding, Mr. Sheppard indicated that there are a number of steps
involved before the property is shovel ready.
For clarification, Mr. Sheppard reiterated that the City would be waiving its right to the reversionary
interest in the land and could choose never to exercise it. Assuming the corporation is resuscitated,
the City would pay $10 to the corporation, and the land then would be transferred back to the City.
Mr. Sheppard explained that the corporation was operated by the Delaware Economic Development
Office (DEDO), who would have to resuscitate the corporation, and that entity would then have to
decide what to do with the land.
Mr. Hare stated that the land would go to DSU, not back to the City. If DSU decides not to build
something there, they would retain the land, have to maintain it, and do everything the City had been
doing with the property for many years. He indicated that he was not looking for the land to come
back to the City and felt that the City should move forward.
Mr. Neil noted that the City does not technically own the land since it had been turned over to
another corporation and questioned if the motion would bring the property back to the City and allow
the City to give it to DSU. Responding, Mayor Christiansen stated that if the City gives up its right,
this would be the end of the City’s involvement. He indicated that if it became a profit situation, the
City could decide in the future if it qualifies as a charitable purpose. Mayor Christiansen advised
that the City could consider taxation based on the profit made. He felt that the decision did not have
to be made tonight because the property use was not stated at the present time.
Mr. Neil indicated that he was a very vocal supporter of Dover Downs, which had been a great
neighbor and had brought people to the area. He stated that this organization makes a profit but
cannot keep it because it is taken away, noting that Dover Downs would now be competing with
DSU. Mr. Neil indicated that Senators Bushweller and Colin Bonini had shown him the value of
the convocation center project and he would be voting to turn the property over to DSU.
Mr. Lewis asked if there were any outstanding funds owed to the City. In response, Mr. Koenig
indicated that the land was still in the name of the Delaware Civic Center Corporation, and he
believed that there was a small amount on the delinquent tax list. He was unsure if it was related to
this property or the two (2) other properties. Mr. Koenig advised that there were no maintenance
fees. He stated that a tally of annualized costs had not been kept; however, they were estimated at
$3,000 - $5,000, which he considered a sum cost. Mr. Koenig noted that maintaining the report was
a proactive measure so that there was no failure in the closure actions that could be linked back to
the City. He stated the desire not to have to reenact the closure of the landfill if at all possible.
Mr. Hutchison stated his strong support of moving forward with this partnership between the City
and DSU.
Mr. Hutchison called for the question, seconded by Mr. Sudler. The motion to call for the
question carried by a roll call vote of seven (7) yes (Sudler, Neil, Lewis, Cole, Hare, Hutchison,
and Slavin) and two (2) no (Anderson and Hosfelt).
Page 16
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 16
The motion that the City of Dover hereby waives, terminates, and renounces any rights it may
have in the property conveyed to the Dover Civic Center Corporation, a Delaware Corporation
by deed, dated December 11, 2001, pending the signing of a memorandum of understanding
between the City of Dover and Delaware State University pertaining to utility easements
carried by a roll call vote of eight (8) yes (Anderson, Sudler, Neil, Lewis, Cole, Hare,
Hutchison, and Slavin) and one (1) no (Hosfelt).
Mr. Neil moved to authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a memorandum of
understanding relating to the utility easements on the land previously conveyed to the Dover Civic
Center Corporation with counsel from the Delaware State University. The motion was seconded by
Mr. Sudler.
Mr. Hosfelt noted that when DSU first came to the City around the same time last year, Mr. Koenig
was in favor of a PILOT for this property and asked where he stood on this now. Responding,
Mr. Koenig stated that he favored a discussion of PILOT; however, he does not have a vote. He
discussed this with Mr. Sheppard and advised him, from an administrative standpoint, that Council
had conveyed to him that there was interest in a PILOT. Mr. Koenig advised that when initial
discussions were held about the transfer in January 2015, the City, administratively, was in favor of
it. Mr. Koenig advised that events had occurred since then that had given staff pause, including
transfers from State government to local government, realty transfer taxes, municipal street aid, and
PILOT and law enforcement payments from the State. He indicated that, from an administrative
standpoint, the City is very concerned about revenue streams and being able to maintain them.
Mr. Koenig advised that, over the last year, there had been a number of discussions related to PILOT,
and this sentiment was conveyed to Mr. Sheppard when they last met around the first week of May.
He indicated that he would like to see a PILOT agreement related to either this property or the DSU
property; however, he stated that he did not have an administrative path to bring that forward.
The motion to authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a memorandum of
understanding relating to the utility easements on the land previously conveyed to the Dover
Civic Center Corporation with counsel from the Delaware State University was unanimously
carried.
Update - Overgrowth of Bamboo - Rodney Road
Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development,
advised members that code enforcement staff met with the Department of
Agriculture’s invasive species staff on Rodney Road and they provided very clear
guidance on how to eradicate the bamboo, which is a very labor intensive process.
Staff determined that it was important to address this correctly and it would be
extremely costly to contract for this service. Mrs. Townshend stated that staff from
the Public Works Department would be working both internally and with the City’s
contractor for vegetation management to develop a time line for cutting and painting
the bamboo with a chemical that will eradicate it over the course of two (2) years, as
estimated by the Department of Agriculture. She stated that this was expected to start
within the next month or so.
Page 17
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 17
In response to Mr. Hare regarding payment for the eradication, Mrs. Townshend
stated that the City would initially pay; however, staff would track all charges and bill
them to the property owner and place them as a lien against the property, as is done
with demolition or grass cutting charges.
Ms. Maucher asked if the City would recoup any of the carrying cost of the expense.
Responding, Mrs. Townshend stated that the carrying cost would not be recouped,
only the out-of-pocket amount.
Downtown Dover Business Improvement District (BID) Budget and Assessment
(Tax) Rates for Fiscal Year 2016-2017
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, reviewed the Business District Improvement (BID)
Assessment (Tax) Rates for Fiscal Year 2016-2017. He indicated that Appendix D -
Downtown Dover Business Improvement District, Article III - Establishment of the
Downtown Dover Business Improvement District, Section 9(f) of the Code requires
that the BID budget be submitted to City Council for approval on or before the first
Council meeting in May each year. Mr. Koenig advised members that the proposed
revenue for the BID for FY 2017 is $48,800, with equal expenses for administration.
Mr. Koenig reviewed the BID Tax Calculation Worksheet, noting that the proposed
% Revenue Raised numbers were prescriptive and were developed based on
discussions with Deputy City Solicitor William Pepper. Mr. Koenig indicated that
the rate change for Zones 1 and 2 was -1%. He explained that, in order for all
numbers to equalize correctly, the Zone 3 rate would increase by 7.8%; however, 41
parcels were associated with this zone. Mr. Koenig stated that this would put the
City in compliance with the Code and allow Staff to develop the draft budget for
presentation to Council.
Mr. Koenig reviewed the Business Improvement Boundary Zones map.
Mr. Hosfelt asked if businesses located in the BID are assessed an additional tax.
Responding, Mr. Koenig confirmed that the businesses are taxed in excess of the
normal property tax, noting that the business owners had attended public hearings in
the past and endorsed the BID.
Mr. Slavin asked whether action taken on this matter would preclude members from
bringing this item up for discussion and making amendments during the budget
hearings. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated his belief that Council had complete
authorization to amend going forward; however, it had been important to introduce
this matter ahead of time so that there would be support to include these numbers in
the budget.
Mr. Slavin noted his longstanding criticism of this concept and advised that he
planned to bring this matter up for a thorough discussion during the budget hearings.
He expressed his opinion that it had been a good start-up issue; however, 25 years
later it was a disincentive.
Page 18
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 18
The Committee recommended approval of the Business Improvement District (BID)
Budget and Assessment (Tax) Rates for Fiscal Year 2016-2017, as recommended by
Staff.
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Proposed Ordinance #2016-10 Amending Chapter 2 - Administration, Article
IV - Officers and Employees, Division 8 - Deferred Compensation Plan
(Sponsors: Cole and Koenig)
During the Council Committee of the Whole/Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee meeting of April 26, 2016, this item was deferred due to
time constraints.
Mr. Koenig reminded members that changes were made to the deferred compensation
plan under the Dover Organization of Employees (DOE) contract, noting that this
contract is the governing document with respect to DOE employees. As previously
discussed, he reiterated that there is language in the Employee Handbook that extends
improvements to the deferred compensation plan to non-bargaining employees.
Mr. Koenig stated that the generic changes to Proposed Ordinance #2016-10 address
this discussion. He advised that the City Manager’s Office was also requesting that
the changes in the Proposed Ordinance and modifications to the deferred
compensation plan be extended to non-bargaining employees. Mr. Koenig reminded
members that there are approximately 41 positions that would be affected by the
proposed changes and the implementation costs would be in the $20,000 to $60,000
range.
Mr. Koenig stated that the most recent consideration by the Committee included a
discussion about capping the percentage of the City’s contribution for employees
who earn more than $100,000. He noted that the impact of a cap was illustrated in
the salary spreadsheet provided. Mr. Koenig advised that, if the cap were set at
$100,000, five (5) employees would be affected. He requested that there not be a cap
for any employees, that the non-bargaining group be treated equally to the DOE
group going forward, and that Council not cap the matching percentage, which would
escalate from 6% to 9% over the next couple of years. Mr. Koenig stated that the
reason for his recommendation was that, at some point, the City would be recruiting
for the positions that were capped and competitiveness could become an issue. In
addition, if these positions were capped, the percentage of payroll required from the
City for employees in the General Employee Pension Plan, as well as police officers
in the State pension plan, would well exceed the amount for the benefits extended to
the capped employees in the deferred compensation plan.
Mr. Koenig reminded members that the General Employee Pension Plan is now
closed; therefore, all new hires, excluding police officers, will be in the deferred
compensation plan, which is a matching plan. The current match is a minimum
contribution of 3% and a maximum of 6%, and this would increase over time to a 6%
Page 19
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 19
minimum and 9% maximum. Mr. Koenig recommended adoption of Proposed
Ordinance #2016-10 and that no changes be made to the Employee Handbook so that
this benefit is extended to non-bargaining employees covered under the deferred
compensation plan.
Mr. Sudler moved to recommend approval of staff’s recommendation, seconded by
Mr. Cole.
Mr. Anderson expressed his belief that there should be a dollar limit based not on
how much an employee is earning but on how much the City is contributing. He
stated that the amount discussed was reasonable and he could not support the
recommendation without this amendment.
Mr. Sudler called for the question, seconded by Mr. Cole. The motion failed by a roll
call vote of six (6) no (Lewis, Neil, Shevock, Cole, Anderson, and Hare) and five (5)
yes (Sudler, Maucher, Hutchison, Slavin, and Hosfelt).
Mr. Hare expressed concern about young employees who start working for the City
of Dover and are told that they must put 6% of their pay into a 401(k). He felt this
could be a lot of money to those who have young families. Mr. Hare suggested that
6% not be mandatory and that this amount be left at perhaps 3% and increased to 6%
possibly after 10 years of employment. He believed that this should be the
employee’s choice. Mr. Hare agreed with Mr. Anderson that there should be a cap,
such as $10,000; however, he was more concerned about the mandatory contribution.
Having been formerly both a city and state employee, Mr. Neil expressed sympathy
for the employees; however, he commented that current interest rates were only 1%
or 1.5% and that many of his constituents were senior citizens. Mr. Neil felt that a
9% match would be a penalty on the City for years to come. He stated that the match
could be changed if there was a sudden glut of money coming into the City; however,
there was not a need to fight with the budget to make things work for the people of
the City. It was Mr. Neil’s opinion that if the City was going to get good people,
they would be attracted by the work conditions. He believed that the additional
money would not make a difference; it would be the character of the people hired.
Mr. Neil felt that those who were wise would take the 9% maximum, and he thought
this was too much because the financial environment was still terrible at this time.
Mr. Cole stated his understanding that the DOE contract had already been signed.
Mr. Koenig confirmed that the contract had been signed and noted that the contract
was prescriptive and the minimums would escalate from 4% to 5% on July 1, 2016
and to 6% one (1) year later.
Responding to Mr. Cole, Mr. Koenig clarified that the issues under discussion were
Proposed Ordinance #2016-10 and whether to extend the same escalation table to
non-bargaining employees.
Page 20
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 20
Mr. Cole stated his understanding that only five (5) positions were being considered
for a cap because the other positions with salaries of $100,000 were police positions.
In response, Mr. Koenig explained that when this matter was last considered there
was a proposed cap, which he opposed because it would be limited to only five (5)
people, himself included. These employees would be able to earn up to a certain
income, and the City would match up to 9% and then cap its contribution at that
point.
Mr. Koenig stated that he had not heard previous discussions about employees who
are lower in the pay scale being unable to meet the 6% minimum. He advised that
the 6% minimum would go into effect on July 1, 2017, so there would be time to
adjust. Mr. Koenig advised that when new employees are hired, staff advises them
of their commitments in their offer letters so they can make informed decisions.
Mr. Koenig advised that there was also an issue of fairness. In his estimation, the
percentage of payroll for police lieutenants and captains would likely exceed the 9%
discussed because the City pays into a State fund. Mr. Koenig stated that, according
to Mrs. Mitchell, the pension fund for police officers is fully funded and has just the
normal cost associated with the benefit.
Mr. Koenig indicated that the deferred plan is the retirement vehicle that the City had
selected going forward for all new hires in the City. He did not feel it fair to exclude
the higher earners from the same percentage being extended to all others because it
would create a different proportional benefit when moving up the scale, and he
requested that it not go forward that way.
Mr. Hare reiterated his concern about younger employees, noting that this would be
a large contribution for a young family. He stated the desire to start with a minimum
contribution of 3% and escalate over time, perhaps by 0.5% per year to reach 6%
within possibly six (6) years. Mr. Hare noted that contributing 6% might be offered
to employees as an option.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Koenig stated that what Mr. Hare proposed would not
apply to the DOE union agreement, which had been set, but would instead apply to
the 42 non-bargaining positions that are unrepresented. Mr. Koenig reiterated that he
had not heard discussion about Mr. Hare’s concerns until this meeting.
The Committee recommended adoption of Proposed Ordinance #2016-10 and that
no changes be made to the Employee Handbook so that this benefit is extended to
non-bargaining employees covered under the deferred compensation plan.
During the Council meeting, Mr. Lewis stated that he disagreed with the Committee’s
recommendation.
Mr. Lewis moved to amend Proposed Ordinance #2016-10 to make the contributions optional up to
9%, seconded by Mr. Neil.
Page 21
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 21
Mr. Lewis explained that the amendment would make the contributions optional not mandatory, so
that people are not forced to contribute 9%.
Mr. Koenig stated that the current minimum contribution for non-bargaining employees is 3% and
Staff has outlined a phase-in for the minimum to increase from 3% to 6%. He explained that the
current maximum is 6%, which is proposed to phase in to 9%. Mr. Koenig reminded members that
during the Council Committee of the Whole meeting, Mr. Hare had expressed concern for the lower
income, non-bargaining employees, and Mr. Lewis’ proposal would be to allow the minimum to
remain at 3% and the maximum to escalate over time to 9%. Mr. Koenig explained that this
proposal is slightly different than what was afforded for during the contract negotiations for the
Dover Organization of Employees (DOE) bargaining unit. He stated that Staff had not asked for any
deviation from the DOE Collective Bargaining Agreement; however, if Council wants to leave the
minimum at 3% for non-bargaining and adjust the maximum to 9%, he believed that would be
allowable under the plan document change, although that was not the proposal submitted by Staff.
For clarification, Mr. Slavin explained that Mr. Lewis would need to correct his motion to say that
the minimum would be 3% and the maximum up to 9%.
Mr. Lewis withdrew his motion to amend Proposed Ordinance #2016-10 to make the contributions
optional up to 9%.
Mr. Lewis moved to amend Proposed Ordinance #2016-10 where the contributions are made
optional, from 3% to 9%, not mandatory.
Responding to Mr. Slavin, Mr. Lewis confirmed that this motion would make two (2) changes:
1) change it from a mandatory program to an optional program; and 2) move the floor from 6% to
3%.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Neil.
Mr. Slavin clarified that the motion was to move this deferred compensation program for
non-bargaining employees from a mandatory program to an optional program, and to set the floor
at 3% rather than 6%.
Mr. Hutchison asked if this motion caused concern for the City Manager, Mr. Koenig.
Mr. Koenig clarified that all new employees, except police officers, are being hired in the deferred
compensation plan, so plan participation is required, not optional. He explained that Mr. Lewis’
motion gives additional latitude for non-bargaining employees, so if they do not wish to adjust their
contribution more than the current minimum of 3%, they do not have to, and, as the maximum
increases over time, per the schedule, they have the ability to contribute as much as 9%. Mr. Koenig
stated that the employee could contribute more than 9%, but the City would only match up to 9%.
Mr. Anderson moved for a division of the question between the mandatory minimum part and the
optional part, noting that they are two (2) distinct issues.
Page 22
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 22
Mr. Anderson explained that, as worded, Mr. Lewis’ motion would make participation optional.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mr. Hare clarified that participation is not optional, contribution of
3% to 9% is optional.
Mr. Slavin stated that the request to divide the motion is not debatable.
The motion to divide the question failed by a roll call vote of eight (8) no (Sudler, Neil, Lewis, Cole,
Hosfelt, Hare, Hutchison, and Slavin), and one (1) yes (Anderson).
Mr. Hare stated that his primary concern was that he does not like being told where he has to put his
money, and a young employee coming to work for the City might have someone else in the family
who makes three (3) times more than they do and may want to do something different with their
money. He stated that he was okay with the 3% to 9%, with a 3% minimum and an option for the
employee to increase the contribution when they want to.
Mr. Slavin advised that the motion before members means that one (1) portion of it could go
anywhere from 3% to 9%, but also makes the entire program optional.
The motion to amend Proposed Ordinance #2016-10 where the contributions are made optional,
from 3% to 9%, not mandatory, failed by a roll call vote of seven (7) no (Anderson, Sudler, Cole,
Hosfelt, Hare, Hutchison Slavin), and two (2) yes (Neil, and Lewis).
Mr. Anderson moved to amend the proposal such that 3% is maintained as the minimum, with the
maximum allowable being 9%, and that the increases are at the employee’s option. The motion was
seconded by Mr. Hare.
Mr. Koenig requested clarification that the motion only relates to non-bargaining employees and the
collective bargaining agreements would govern the others. Responding, Mr. Anderson confirmed
that the motion only relates to non-bargaining employees because Proposed Ordinance #2016-10
only refers to non-bargaining employees and does not affect collective bargaining.
The motion to amend Proposed Ordinance #2016-10, the proposal for non-bargaining
employees, such that 3% is maintained as the minimum, with the maximum allowable being
9%, and that the increases are at the employee’s option was carried by a unanimous roll call
vote.
Evaluation of Trial Period for Council Committee of the Whole Meetings
(Council Resolution No. 2015-16)
During the Regular City Council meeting of November 23, 2015, members approved
the recommendation of the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee to
commence the Committee of the Whole meeting format during the first meetings in
January and try it for a few months, and if members decide to adopt the format as one
(1) of the protocols for the next Council year, that this be done during the annual
meeting.
Page 23
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 23
Mr. Hutchison stated that having all nine (9) members of Council serve as members
of the Committee of the Whole in an open meeting over the last several weeks had
allowed for open discussion and dialogue shared by members of Council and civilian
representatives. He noted that, under this format, Council members serve not only
as members of the Committee but also have a vote, which was unlike the previous
system where only three (3) members of Council were voting members of a
committee. Mr. Hutchison felt that Council was finally moving in the right direction
and urged all members to support this change.
Mr. Lewis stated that, although this change was good for some, it was not good for
all, noting that not everyone is retired or has a nine-to-five job. He advised that he
works for the State of Delaware as an essential employee and working different shifts
prevents him from attending all of the committee meetings. Mr. Lewis advised
members that when Mr. Hutchison brought this idea to his attention, he explained the
position he was in. He stated that as this matter goes forth, he would have to hold a
press conference or write a letter to the editor informing his constituents that he
would be unable to attend all of these committee meetings. Mr. Lewis reminded
members that this change was imposed after the election and was coming into play
now. He stated his belief that it seemed that the majority of people were in support
of it; however, he stated that Mr. Cole had also indicated that he had some job related
conflicts.
Mr. Slavin informed members that when Mr. Hutchison first brought the idea
forward, he did not think it was a good idea but agreed to try it. He now apologized
to Mr. Hutchison, stating that he thought the trial format had resulted in a much
deeper understanding of issues across Council, which had been lacking. Mr. Slavin
thanked Mr. Hutchison for bringing this matter forward, stating that he would move
to extend it when the time came to make a motion.
Mr. Hosfelt stated that there had been deep, thoughtful discussion at the Committee
level, but expressed concern that this discussion does not occur at the Council
meetings since items are placed on the consent agenda. He noted that television
cameras are present at the Council meeting, which is often the only way the public
can hear what Council is doing. Mr. Hosfelt indicated that he would rather have the
cameras present during committee hearings so that the public can hear the thoughtful
discussions rather than moving through the consent agenda and issues very quickly.
He felt that people want to hear what their elected representatives have to say and
their thoughts on the issues. Mr. Hosfelt was unsure if this could be worked out with
Comcast, noting that it may be a matter of having Council Committee of the Whole
meetings on Monday evenings and Council meetings on Tuesdays. Mr. Hosfelt noted
that it might be better to hold the Committee meetings before the Council meets.
Mr. Anderson stated that he liked the trial format, which engages everyone, and that
the idea should continue. He expressed concern about meeting on Tuesday nights
and on two (2) evenings in a particular work week, which causes schedule conflicts
with his job. Mr. Anderson stated that he sets his schedule for Mondays and would
Page 24
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 24
like to discuss the particular evening in the future. He indicated that he was not
opposed to continuing the concept, noting that it had been a net benefit that he was
willing to keep regardless.
Mr. Sudler stated that he could relate to both sides of the discussion, acknowledging
that the trial format does cut into the job time frames for those who are not retired,
such as himself. He noted that the format gives a more in-depth understanding and
dialogue, which he liked. Mr. Sudler stated that members were aware when they
agreed to serve on Council that it would be a sacrifice, and he felt they were either
willing to make the sacrifice or not. Mr. Sudler noted that there would be
inconveniences, as when executive sessions are held, and he is unable to attend some
meetings due to job responsibilities. He felt that it all boiled down to what was
important to members, stating that perhaps those who cannot handle the time
commitment should not be councilmen. Mr. Sudler stated that dedication, sacrifice,
and determination are what it takes to run the City. He advised that he would support
continuing this format, stating the need to be well informed and engaged to make the
best decisions for his constituents.
Mr. Neil stated that he was sympathetic to Mr. Lewis and Mr. Cole with respect to
their regular jobs; however, Mr. Neil felt the trial format gave him a better view of
everything that is happening within the City. He indicated that he would bring up at
the Council meeting any matter that he disagrees with at the committee level.
Mr. Neil stated that he appreciated being able to get a total feel for what is happening
within the City and to be a part of that process. Mr. Cole stated that he had discussed
this matter with his supervisor, who was very understanding, and that this was
something that he could be on board with going forward.
Mr. Anderson pointed out that when members signed on to serve they signed on to
certain understandings and time commitments and not necessarily these changes.
Council had decided to experiment with these changes, and he did not believe that
was an issue of anyone’s dedication. He believed that there must be discussion about
whether the change is needed. Mr. Anderson noted that Council would be changing
to the same format used by a body that receives four (4) times the pay that Council
receives, and this change was costing some people on Council money without any
changes in compensation. Mr. Anderson stated this was an issue of whether Council
would change the rules after everybody had signed on. He indicated that this could
be done; however, it was something that should be done carefully. Mr. Anderson
stated that the timing should be discussed, whether or not it would be on a separate
evening and, if so, which evening. He indicated that he was not asked if this day of
the week would work when it was picked. Mr. Anderson questioned whether or not
there should be discussion about the best way to execute it. He stated that he was for
the new format but wanted to talk about how and when it would be done and
expressed his hope that this would be done in the near future, although he was unsure
if it needed to be settled at that meeting. Mr. Anderson felt each Council person
should be consulted.
Page 25
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 25
Mr. Sudler recalled that Mr. Hutchison had presented to the Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee what may or may not take place, it was voted on, and the
majority agreed. Mr. Sudler disagreed that there had not been discussion on that
matter and felt Mr. Anderson’s comment was unfair.
Mr. Neil expressed interest in hearing from the civilian members of the standing
committees as to whether they had gained value from the change, noting that they are
the unelected people who sacrifice their time to offer their wisdom.
Ms. Maucher stated that she found it very informative to understand how the City
works. She noted that she had been serving a one (1) year term on a committee and
did not have the experience of hearing perspectives from sitting through other
committees, although she typically comes at 6:00 p.m. and observes the committee
before hers. The only issue that Ms. Maucher had was the switch of the nights from
Mondays to Tuesdays. She indicated that the mid-term shift was a little awkward;
however, it worked out well and she was able to commit to Tuesdays for the rest of
the term.
Mr. Shevock fully agreed with the change, noting that the full Council had not
previously been present at committee meetings. He indicated that, previously, when
the committee made a decision on something and it went forward, it seemed to be
completely re-discussed at the next Council meeting. Mr. Shevock agreed with
Mr. Sudler that when members sign on to help an organization, as the civilian
members had done, they must put in their full time and interest.
In reference to Mr. Anderson’s comment that no one had asked him about Tuesday
nights, Mr. Slavin noted that the action form reviewed at the Council meeting of
November 9, 2015 stated that meetings of the Council Committee of the Whole
would be held on Tuesday evenings, which was approved unanimously by Council.
In regard to the attendance issue, Mr. Slavin stated his impression that attendance by
Council, civilian committee members, and the public had been better than the
attendance at separate committee meetings held at different times across the calendar.
He commented that the public now did not need to know where various committee
meetings were held. Referring to Mr. Hosfelt’s concern about consent items on the
Council agenda that were not receiving a full vetting, Mr. Slavin stated that items are
placed on the consent agenda at the discretion of the committee chair during agenda
meetings, and if chairs want to have particular items on the floor, they can simply ask
not to have these items on consent. Mr. Slavin noted that every member of Council
also has the right to pull items off the consent agenda at every meeting before the
consent agenda is approved, which would allow for more complete vetting of issues
while the television cameras are on, and that right had not been taken away from
anyone by this format.
Mr. Lewis did not disagree that members knew what they were getting into when
they signed on; however, he reiterated that the rules had changed, which affects some
Page 26
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 26
people. When members filed for election, the meetings were on the calendar for the
second and fourth Mondays of each month, and committee meetings were generally
held on Mondays, generally before the Council meetings.
Mr. Hutchison reminded members that under the old system, only three (3) members
of Council served on each of the committees. He attended all of those meetings and,
for the most part, the only members of Council who attended were those who were
members of the committee. Mr. Hutchison understood the issues related to Council
members’ jobs; however, he pointed out that every member of Council was present
for the current committee meeting, allowing for open discussion with representation
for the whole City, and he felt the benefit of this approach far outweighed the other
system. When looking at the issues being faced every day with the City, he felt it
was absolutely critical to receive input from everyone.
Mr. Hare agreed that the trial format was good; however, he indicated that there had
been suggestions about when meetings would be held, noting that meetings could be
held every Monday. He personally liked the current Monday-Tuesday night format,
which allowed for the following week to be free.
Mr. Slavin moved to recommend extending the Council Committee of the Whole
format on Tuesday evenings through May 31, 2017, seconded by Mr. Hutchison.
Mr. Anderson asked that Council and committee members be surveyed for the best
night for Council Committee of the Whole meetings and indicated that he would
concur with the motion if it did not specify a night. Mr. Slavin stated that the motion
specified Tuesday night. Mr. Anderson expressed his hope that a survey regarding
the night would be done in the future.
The Committee recommended extending the Council Committee of the Whole
format on Tuesday evenings through May 31, 2017.
Mr. Anderson moved to extend the Council Committee of the Whole format through May 31, 2017,
with the meetings to be held on Monday evenings preceding the Council meetings. The motion was
seconded by Mr. Hosfelt.
Mr. Anderson explained that this would be the same time that committee meetings were previously
held and the meeting times would be at the discretion of the Council President.
Mr. Hutchison questioned what time the meetings would be held on Mondays, noting that one (1)
of the reasons why the change was necessary was because so many members of Council are currently
employed, which created a serious problem for their participation in the Committee meetings. He
stated that one (1) of the advantages of having the meetings on Tuesdays is that almost every
member of Council has the opportunity to attend and participate in all of the meetings, which he
believes is absolutely critical.
Page 27
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 27
Responding to Mr. Hutchison, Mr. Anderson stated his belief, based on the discussions he has had,
that holding the meetings between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Monday evenings would be more
advantageous to different members of Council who have expressed concerns.
Mr. Hare noted that since switching to the Council Committee of the Whole meeting format, he
could not recall one (1) time when a meeting was less than two (2) hours.
Mr. Hosfelt felt that it made sense to have the Committee meeting before the Council meetings,
noting that members could then communicate to those members of the public that cannot attend,
since the television crew is present on Monday nights. He stated that the public would be able to
witness the discussion that occurs during the Committee meetings, since members of Council do not
always have a full discussion of items at the Council level.
Mr. Sudler asked if it would be a violation of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) for members
to discuss a matter at the Council Committee of the Whole meeting and then consider the item at the
Council meeting on the same evening. Responding, Mr. Slavin stated that items would not be
considered by Council on the same evening that they are considered by the Council Committee of
the Whole, explaining that there would still be a one (1) meeting delay.
Mr. Slavin advised that having the Council Committee of the Whole meeting on Tuesday nights has
cleared Mondays prior to the Council meetings for any executive sessions, noting that it is far easier
to schedule executive sessions on an evening when a meeting is already scheduled. He stated that
he is not opposed to moving the Council Committee of the Whole meetings to Monday nights;
however, it would require Council to start scheduling executive sessions on other evenings.
Mr. Slavin noted that the Council Committee of the Whole meetings have been lasting longer, which
has led to some very healthy discussions. He reminded members that Council always has the option
of recessing a Council Committee of the Whole meeting and reconvening after the Regular Council
meeting is complete; however, he expressed concern that members are not at their freshest in the
second hour of a Council meeting, which would become the fourth hour if the Council Committee
of the Whole meeting is held prior to the Council meeting.
The motion to extend the Council Committee of the Whole format through May 31, 2017, with the
meetings to be held on Monday evenings preceding the Council meetings failed by a roll call vote
of six (6) no (Sudler, Neil, Cole, Hare, Hutchison, and Slavin), and three (3) yes (Anderson, Lewis,
and Hosfelt).
Mr. Anderson moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation to extend the Council
Committee of the Whole format on Tuesday evenings through May 31, 2017. The motion was
seconded by Mr. Neil and carried with Mr. Lewis voting no, and Resolution No. 2016-05
amending Resolution No. 2015-06 was adopted, as follows:
A RESOLUTION AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 2015-16 WHICH TEMPORARILY SET
ASIDE THE STANDING COMMITTEES AS PROVIDED FOR IN THE DOVER CODE
AND ENACTED A COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE ON A TRIAL BASIS
Page 28
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 28
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 2015-16, adopted by City Council on December 14, 2015, temporarily
set aside the Standing Committees as provided for in the Dover Code and enacted a Committee of
the Whole on a temporary basis; and
WHEREAS, City Council wishes for members of City Council and the civilian members of the
Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement; Safety Advisory and Transportation; Utility; and
Legislative, Finance, and Administration committees to continue meeting as a Council Committee
of the Whole on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month through May 31, 2017.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
THAT the last paragraph of Resolution No. 2015-16 be amended to read as follows:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council and civilian members of the
Standing Committees will act as a Council Committee of the Whole, meeting on the second and
fourth Tuesdays of the month through May 31, 2017. If Council chooses to adopt this meeting
format, an Ordinance amendment regarding the Standing Committees will be presented for
adoption prior to the Annual Meeting in May.
ADOPTED: MAY 23, 2016
Request of Fire Department - Engine #7 Replacement
Members were advised that, in accordance with the Capital Improvement Program
(CIP) for Fiscal Year 2016/2016, the Robbins Hose Company was requesting the
replacement of Engine #7, a 1997 Pierce Dash Engine. This engine will be 20 years
old in 2017 and was originally on a 15-year replacement program; however, the City
of Dover and previous Fire Chiefs agreed to push back the replacement to assist the
City with funding other projects during the economic fall out. Engine #7 had served
the Robbins Hose Company and the citizens of Dover well; however, due to its age,
there had been extended down times for maintenance due to parts availability, which
reduces fire protection for the Citizens of Dover. Specifications for a new engine
were created based on the current apparatus with a few fire suppression and safety
upgrades. The proposal for the specifications came in at $609,584, which is $7,084
over the City's projected budget (CIP) of $602,500. The financing of this apparatus
over ten years (2017-2026) would translate into a loan payment of approximately
$73,400. The difference of $7,084 would have to be added, increasing the total
amount to $609,584. The replacement of Engine #7 is needed to provide
uninterrupted and continual guarantee of five (5) engines in service to maintain and
meet the Robbins Hose Company’s Insurance Services Office (ISO) requirements,
which sets the insurance ratings for property owners throughout the City of Dover
and allows the Fire Department to respond to multiple emergencies throughout the
City simultaneously. This will also allow the Department to maintain the highest
level of readiness and safety for firefighters and residents of the City of Dover. The
Fire Department has a working relationship with Pierce manufacturing and planned
to deal with them on the purchase.
Page 29
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 29
Fire Chief Carleton Carey, Jr., Dover Fire Department, offered to answer any
questions regarding the request.
In response to Mr. Neil regarding how many miles were on the 18-year-old Pierce
Dash Engine #7, Chief Carey indicated that it had 36,000 miles. Mr. Neil,
referencing the Operational and Administration Analysis, noted that Table 5-5:
Proposed Fire Apparatus Replacement Schedule on page 37 recommended that the
unit remain in service for as long as 23 years if it has less than 120,000 miles on it.
He stated this was one (1) of his principal concerns. Mr. Neil commented that the
report was extremely favorable to the Fire Department and gave them a tremendous
pat on the back. He noted that the report had additional recommendations in terms
of the first response unit being three (3) engines, one (1) ladder truck, and two (2)
command vehicles and in terms of two (2) station houses, and the Fire Department
had enough equipment to cover that. Mr. Neil advised that the report had indicated
that there should be a method of financing the trucks going forward and a formula on
Page 37 describes what has to happen. He stated that members had not looked at this
report as a Council, and budget hearings were coming up. Mr. Neil felt it would be
necessary to look at whether the engine needs to be replaced at this time based on this
report. Referring to a memorandum from Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, dated
May 4, 2016, regarding the replacement of Engine # 7 - Robbins Hose Company,
Mr. Neil stated that the City Manager had requested that this matter be delayed.
Mr. Neil also wished to delay because Mr. Hare had been working on a proposal to
attempt to obtain help from some of the many 501(c)(3) organizations in the City that
the City supports with fire and police protection, which would be a consideration as
far as financing. Mr. Neil felt that this matter should be delayed until Council looks
at the report, which contains a lot of serious recommendations, including moving
dispatchers to Kent County. He stated that his recommendation was not a slap on the
department that does a marvelous job. Mr. Neil felt that the City would not be at risk
if no action was taken on this matter tonight.
Mr. Sudler questioned if Chief Carey had reviewed the section of the report
referenced by Mr. Neil. Responding, Chief Carey stated that he had read the report
twice. Mr. Sudler questioned what he could tell his constituents regarding why
Council should approve the truck replacement three (3) years ahead of the schedule
in the report. Responding, Chief Carey stated that the Fire Department would receive
less money for the truck if it was sold three (3) years later and all of the money
received from the sale of the truck will go toward equipment for the new truck. He
explained that the City buys only the truck and equipping an engine can easily cost
from $75,000 to $100,000. Chief Carey indicated that Robbins Hose Company
would have to put approximately $75,000 toward the new engine, noting that this
purchase would be a little cheaper than the purchase in two (2) years because air
bottles had recently been purchased, which would save $25,000.
In response to Mr. Sudler regarding whether Chief Carey still strongly urged Council
to support the Department’s recommendation after hearing Mr. Neil’s concerns,
Chief Carey stated that he did. He indicated that only the Mayor and one (1) member
Page 30
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 30
of Council had talked to him about the report. Chief Carey stated that Robbins Hose
Company did not recommend this report but would do whatever needed to be done
and would have their recommendations when the time comes.
Based on research that he had done, Mayor Christiansen advised that NFPA
standards state that the life expectancy of Class A fire apparatus is 15 years. He
noted that it is not based only on mileage but on the engine hours.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Chief Carey stated that he did not know the
number of engine hours on Engine #7, noting that there was no monitor on this
engine.
Mayor Christiansen stated that the standards of a 15-year life span for an engine and
17 years for a ladder truck were the norm across the country. He stated that he served
on the committee that put together Engine #7 and Rescue #1 when they were
purchased in 1997, and he was a member of Council and a junior officer in the Dover
Fire Department. Mayor Christiansen advised that the exterior of the truck looks
good; however, after a certain amount of time they become worn and less reliable.
He advised that the report stated that the Fire Department could operate with a certain
number of pieces of equipment, which Mayor Christiansen took to task because he
knew the operation and the responsibility that the Department has for its own fire
district and for others.
Mayor Christiansen questioned if this engine could be put in service for any great
length of time if one (1) of the front line engines were to go down. Responding,
Chief Carey stated that he must do what must be done to run the Department when
help is needed. He explained, for example, that a month ago there was a truck that
would not start at Station No. 2. There was an engine with a flat tire on its rim and
the two (2) pumpers were out of service. Chief Carey advised that, fortunately, there
were no fire calls at that time and an engine from Station No. 1 was taken to Station
No. 2 to support that side of town.
Mayor Christiansen questioned if it was reasonable to say that the need had been
identified above and beyond what the report stated. Chief Carey stated that there had
not been much maintenance on the truck during the last three (3) years. When they
replace this truck, Engine #3 would be sitting in Engine #7's spot. He indicated that
this was almost like a spare, so that when an engine goes down, which happens
frequently, another engine is moved over. For example, they had spent nearly
$38,000 in maintenance on Engine #3 alone in almost two (2) years. Chief Carey
noted that Engine #7 had not been that expensive because it had been sidelined and
they had been fortunate with it. When they do have to run it, it is the first piece.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen regarding six (6) month or annual maintenance
of apparatus, Chief Carey stated that regular maintenance is performed on all
apparatus and is up to date for this year.
Page 31
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 31
Mayor Christiansen questioned if this was in addition to preventive maintenance
performed by the dispatchers and if they document all service on the trucks. In
response, Chief Carey explained that the certified maintenance is not done in-house;
however, the dispatchers check the air bottles, lights, and tire pressure on a daily
basis and make sure that the trucks start and the air pressure is holding so they are
ready to roll out the door. He stated that the dispatchers are the backbone, helping
out so that members of the Department can go home and live their lives.
Mr. Hutchison questioned if the Department had a replacement plan in place for fire
apparatus and a corresponding financial plan. Responding, Chief Carey stated that
there is a plan in place and there was also a plan 20 years ago when he was serving as
Fire Chief. He indicated that he had met with Mr. Koenig and Mrs. Donna Mitchell,
Controller/Treasurer, so that a future plan could be developed.
Mr. Hutchison questioned when the next apparatus would need to be replaced.
Responding, Chief Carey indicated that they should start another replacement next
year after this truck was purchased. He advised that two (2) engines were purchased
in 2003. Chief Carey explained that there had been a set five (5) year plan for engine
replacement so that when one (1) was paid off, the other was ordered and the
payment plan rolled over to the next truck. He stated that this was how it used to
work with the City and the Fire Department. Chief Carey stated that this plan was
no longer in place and he was unsure why, noting that this had changed during the
20 year span since he was last Chief. He had explained to Mr. Koenig and
Mrs. Mitchell that the specialized pieces, the two (2) ladder trucks and rescue truck,
would cost more than $1M.
In response to Mr. Hutchison as to whether the City had a finance plan for the
Robbins Hose Company, Mrs. Mitchell stated that the Fire Department supplied her
with a schedule for when they want to replace trucks and the estimated cost of each
apparatus. Because the City uses loans, Mrs. Mitchell set up an amortization
schedule for each apparatus and laid it out in a spreadsheet. She indicated that there
is a plan in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for five (5) years; however, the truck
payment actually goes out 10 years. Mrs. Mitchell stated that all the trucks that were
coming up were included, noting that there was one (1) next year and another two (2)
years after that. Mrs. Mitchell indicated that she would provide Mr. Hutchison with
a copy of the payment plan.
Mr. Sudler expressed his appreciation for the Fire Department, stating his belief that
if they say they need apparatus, regardless of the report, the City should give it to
them. He commented that the Fire Department’s time frame of one (1) year was very
close to the three (3) years indicated in the report and noted that members of the
Department were waking up in the early morning hours to put out fires for loved ones
and businesses in the City.
Mr. Sudler moved to support the Dover Fire Department’s request. The motion
failed for lack of a second.
Page 32
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 32
Mr. Neil stated that the comprehensive Operational and Administration Analysis was
to act as a guideline, and the Proposed Apparatus Replacement Schedule indicated
first line service for 18 years or 100,000 miles and five (5) years or 120,000 miles for
reserve status. He stated that Engine #7 was in reserve status and was being looked
at for trade-in value. With the budget coming up and the request from the City
Manager for delay, Mr. Neil felt this matter should be delayed until members
consider what this report is, what they would do, and how it fits in with the fiscal
year coming up. He reiterated that the City was also looking at possibly getting help
from another source.
Mr. Hosfelt recalled that there had been discussion relating to Chief Carey returning
to give a briefing on the public safety study and questioned if this had been arranged.
Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that it had not yet been arranged; however, it could
be discussed at the agenda meeting.
Mr. Slavin stated that the City was still waiting for the draft of the report pertaining
to the police. Mr. Koenig explained that the text of the draft companion police report
had been received, was being reviewed, and comments must be sent back to the
consultant before it can be finalized by the consultant.
In response to Mr. Hosfelt, Mr. Koenig stated that the draft police side of the report
had been received by himself and Chief Bernat, who were reviewing it for text issues
or factual mistakes. Their comments will soon be sent back to the consultant to
finalize this portion of the report and submit the final report to Council. Mr. Koenig
advised that the same process was implemented with the fire and EMS study. The
consultant had submitted the final report, which had been posted to the website;
however, no discussion had convened with Council at this point.
Responding to Mr. Hosfelt regarding the timetable for receiving the final report,
Mr. Koenig projected that the police side would be finalized within the next 30 days;
however, members would not be able to hear from the consultant before the budget
discussion. He indicated that, at one point, the discussion had been to potentially
review the reports in early to late June.
Mr. Anderson stated that if the discussion was to replace the engine in year 15 or 16
years of 23 years, he would be in favor of stretching the engine out longer; however,
with the time frame being so close, he tended to agree with Mr. Sudler. He stated
that, traditionally, discussions of this type of capital project are rolled into the budget
discussion and he questioned the proper format to refer this matter to the budget
discussion. In response, Mr. Koenig indicated that this would be part of the FY 17
budget discussion because the purchase of this vehicle was not budgeted in FY 16.
He explained that this equipment takes approximately a year to be fabricated;
however, the FY 17 budget originally had more than $74,000 in debt service
associated with this vehicle. In March or April, staff advised Council that there was
a $1M gap in the General Fund. That proposed purchase had been cut from the draft
budget to close that $1M gap. Mr. Koenig stated his understanding of the Fire
Page 33
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 33
Department’s request; however, he disagreed from the managerial side because the
Fire Department’s 15-year schedule is not supported by manufacturer documentation
or in the Operational and Administration Analysis that will be discussed in the future.
He indicated that he was not ready to approve a $600,000 purchase since there was
a gap in the budget that needs to be closed.
Mr. Anderson questioned if Mr. Koenig was looking at a delay of another year or so.
Responding, Mr. Koenig felt that this was part of what Council needed to deliberate
as they get into the budget discussions.
In response to Mayor Christiansen regarding the payment and amortization schedule
arrangement with the fire apparatus dealer, Mrs. Mitchell indicated that she had laid
out an amortization schedule for approximately $603,000 with a 10-year payback,
which would be approximately $74,000 per year.
The Committee tabled the discussion of replacing Engine #7 until the budget
discussions.
Mr. Hutchison commented that the Mayor and Council had always been there to
support the volunteer fire service, which is a first-class operation. In fairness, due to
the timing, Mr. Hutchison felt it was critical on the part of the Mayor, Council, City
Manager, and staff to take the time to look at the budget and go through the process.
He thanked Chief Carey for what they do and asked that they bear with the City.
Progress Report on the Youth Advisory Committee’s Reporting of Their
Minutes
Mr. Anderson stated that the Youth Advisory Committee’s (YAC’s) progress was
positive and that it had been a priority of the new chair to make sure that the records
are well kept. The secretary left the Committee and they now have a rotating
secretary. Referring to the memorandum from Chairwoman Rebecca Anderson dated
April 6, 2016, RE: Minutes Action Plan, Mr. Anderson stated that there is a
recommendation for a contract person and a budget request of approximately $1,000
in the next fiscal year’s budget so that there would not be a burden on the City
Clerk’s Office. He felt that the Committee should be treated as every other City
committee, noting that no City committees takes their own minutes. Mr. Anderson
stated that this was a very important legal responsibility and thought it would be a
good idea to have this done by someone who is experienced in that regard.
Mr. Hare questioned if the City Clerk had been receiving the minutes. Responding,
Mrs. Traci McDowell, City Clerk, stated that the Clerk’s Office had received minutes
for the last two (2) meetings but not the outstanding minutes for the previous
meetings.
Noting that Mr. Anderson had requested staffing funds for the YAC,
Mayor Christiansen questioned if the City Clerk’s Office would be capable of
handling this responsibility. Responding, Mrs. McDowell stated that the Clerk’s
Page 34
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 34
Office currently had a backlog of minutes and a new person had just come on staff.
She advised members that the Clerk’s Office had never done minutes for the YAC,
noting that when former Councilwoman Sophia Russell restarted the YAC in 2008,
the Clerk’s Office had done two (2) sets of minutes until officers were installed.
Mrs. McDowell explained that the YAC selected a member who attended the
meetings, kept records, did the minutes, and submitted them to the adult advisor at
that time. It was Mrs. McDowell’s belief that minutes were supposed to be a learning
experience, noting that there are high school students who are pursuing this kind of
field, and she felt that was the intention to have the youth do their own minutes, since
they function as a youth advisory group for the government.
In response to Mr. Lewis, Mr. Hare stated that the YAC minutes were subject to
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) laws.
Mr. Lewis stated his recollection that when he served on the Dover Human Relations
Commission (DHRC), an outside contractor was hired to complete minutes and he
asked if this still applied. Responding, Mrs. McDowell stated that when the DHRC
was recently reconstituted she and then Council President Bonar discussed the
Clerk’s Office staffing the commission. She stated that the Clerk’s Office would
complete the minutes, attend the meetings, and provide guidance so that they would
stay on track. At that time, a proposed ordinance stated that the DHRC would meet
quarterly. Mrs. McDowell advised that before the ordinance was adopted, it was
amended to allow the DHRC to meet whenever they wished. She advised that the
DHRC had met monthly since being reconstituted and had met more often than
monthly. Mrs. McDowell stated that DHRC minutes are extremely long, as are the
minutes for the Council Committee of the Whole. She explained that one (1) hour
of meeting time takes four (4) hours to transcribe; therefore, a three (3) hour meeting
is more than one (1) day’s work.
Mr. Anderson advised that part of the YAC’s proposal would take care of some of
the minutes backlog and explained that the tapes do exist. He stated that the YAC
had also requested training, which would be an essential element if they were to take
their minutes. Mr. Anderson felt that this would be a positive, one (1) time
investment. Mr. Lewis concurred that the youth members should be trained,
specifically if they are bound by FOIA regulations.
Mr. Slavin stated that the YAC is bound by FOIA and right now the City is
knowingly in violation of FOIA repeatedly for this issue. He expressed his opinion
that government grows slowly and $1,000 dollars here and there adds up to real
money. Mr. Slavin advised that youth had been asked to come forward and give their
ideas about how to make the City better and the structure used was one based on how
adults do business, not how youth comes up with ideas. His experience dealing with
youth is that they are a lot brighter and more nimble, and coming to a place like City
Hall on a weeknight evening and having to meet in this format had proven to be a
barrier in getting those ideas. Mr. Slavin felt that the City was tripping over issues
like composition, noting that YAC members cannot meet out their terms or get to the
Page 35
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 35
meetings, and there are not quorums or minutes, and, in the interim, the City is not
getting the ideas that are wanted. Mr. Slavin stated that he planned during budget
considerations to propose that the City look at a different initiative that would
involve going to key departments where the public interacts with City government,
such as Police, Fire, Parks and Recreation, and the Dover Public Library and require
those departments to have focus groups with youth through the year and report back
to Council with the ideas they have gathered. Mr. Slavin did not see it as the role of
City government to train youth on how to be in government, stating that this is what
the YMCA Youth in Government program, Boys and Girls State, and civics classes
are for. He felt that the City was duplicating these efforts. In regard to the minutes
training, Mr. Slavin stated his concern that this would not be a one (1) time cost
because there would be new members on the Committee and continuous training
would be involved. He expressed his belief that these are the things that add cost to
government, although this was not a great cost. Mr. Slavin suggested widening the
lens and thinking about the outcome wanted from involving youth with the
government. He felt there was a better way to get to that outcome than to ask them
to behave like adult members.
Mr. Hare advised that he had been to one (1) of the YAC meetings and they had no
one to take notes and no quorum and they still held their meeting. Responding,
Mr. Anderson indicated that this was not true. Mr. Hare stated that members may not
have held the meeting, but they remained in the room for a while.
Mr. Anderson stated that, compared to most City committees, he was quite pleased
with the youth and their commitment. He advised that, of all the regular meetings
they held, there was only one (1) where there was not a quorum. Mr. Anderson noted
that one (1) member kept saying that they were coming and they did not. They
eventually left the YAC.
Mr. Slavin stated that this was not known because there were no minutes of any
meetings. In response, Mr. Anderson advised that there were several sets of minutes
from older meetings, although there was a period where they were missing.
Mr. Anderson indicated that the Chair’s memorandum requested help in transcribing
one (1) particular meeting and the recommendation in the memo was very positive
and should be adopted. He indicated that there had been enormous community
engagement with Restoring Central Dover, Bayhealth Medical Center, the Downtown
Dover Partnership, the Parks and Recreation Department, and Kent County Tourism
during the last several months under the current leadership. Mr. Anderson felt that
going backwards all of a sudden would be a complete waste of time and totally
ridiculous.
Mr. Hare questioned if the YAC had taken on these initiatives and gone to these
entities. Responding, Mr. Anderson indicated that there was partnership with each
of those entities. With Bayhealth there would be a summer program for cardio-
pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), babysitting, and the like for the youth. In response
Page 36
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 36
to Mr. Hare regarding funding, Mr. Anderson stated that Bayhealth and Restoring
Central Dover’s committee would be picking up the cost.
Mr. Hare stated that this was the first he had heard of this, noting that the YAC was
supposed to make recommendations to Council before they do it. Responding,
Mr. Anderson stated that the YAC were enabled to plan and execute events, noting
that there would be no cost for the taxpayer. Mr. Anderson stated that broader things
that engage the City are brought forward and the YAC was supposed to recommend
advocacy items for the youth.
Mr. Hare stated that he did not want to have 14-to-16-year-old children planning and
making executions on behalf of the City without advising Council.
Mr. Neil stated that he would like to see the minutes, stating his presumption that
they existed and could be produced. Responding, Mr. Anderson stated they were on
the City website.
Mr. Neil stated the desire for minutes so that members could study what the YAC
had done, noting that this would have been helpful for this particular discussion.
Responding, Mr. Anderson stated that these items were mentioned in the annual
report, which passed on consent agenda unanimously.
Mr. Cole questioned why members were trying to put a square peg in a round hole.
He stated that there were youth who wanted to be involved and suggested looking at
how to make this work moving forward. Based on his 18 years of education,
Mr. Cole stated that kids want to do things and it was a matter of how to guide this.
Mr. Lewis concurred with Mr. Cole and stated that the City was being proactive for
the kids and this was a positive thing for today’s society. He stated that he would
hate to see the YAC dissolve; however, he believed that it needed some structure and
guidance.
Mayor Christiansen asked that Mr. Anderson and the YAC memorialize the
partnerships that were mentioned in writing, as well as their meetings and
conversations, so that Council could review them and help the YAC move forward
in the direction needed. Mayor Christiansen stated that he did not want to see
another situation such as the New Year’s Eve celebration issue. He noted that there
is great advantage for the YAC and its potential energy, but stated the need to provide
Council some sense of direction on where they are going so that things would be in
hand if Council needs to approve their decisions.
Mr. Slavin expressed concerns regarding another round of obligations made by the
YAC for the City to be involved in activities with very little knowledge of what the
activities are and their scope. He indicated that he was more concerned that it
appeared that the youth were being taught that the Freedom of Information Act is
optional, noting that it is not and never had been.
Page 37
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 37
The Committee recommended that the Youth Advisory Committee be suspended
until all minutes of the missing meetings are approved by Council and until Council
can discuss the matter thoroughly.
During the Council meeting, Mr. Anderson expressed his opinion that the recommendation of the
Youth Advisory Committee should be accepted, noting that it was a reasonable and amenable
recommendation. He stated that he would like to request that members of the community, many of
whom have been in contact to support the Youth Advisory Committee, volunteer to help with the
back minutes. Mr. Anderson stated that he was very pleased with the current leadership of the
Committee, which has met, basically, every demand that Council has put forward. He requested that
Council support the Youth Advisory Committee in the coming year, to be able to do the things that
it has laid out. Mr. Anderson stated that there has been cooperation set with City staff, which is very
positive, and with the community interests. It was his belief that the Committee had exceeded the
expectations that had been laid out for it. He stated that the Committee is doing a great job and
should be supported.
Mr. Hare, referring to Mr. Anderson’s request that Council support the Youth Advisory Committee
in the coming year, to be able to do the things that it has laid out, stated that nothing had been
presented to Council regarding the Committee’s recommendations and no minutes had been
provided in this regard, so he did not know what the Committee was planning to do or commit the
City to. Mr. Hare stated that he was not ready to let a group of fifteen and sixteen year-old kids
make commitments on the City’s behalf, noting that Resolution No. 2010-03 states that the
Committee shall present their recommendations to City Council. He stated that he could not support
this. Mr. Hare indicated that if there were people willing to help with the minutes, the Committee
could get all of the minutes caught up, submit them to Council for consideration, and Council could
then discuss the matter.
Mr. Anderson stated that the Youth Advisory Committee’s recommendations were provided in the
Committee’s 2016 Annual Plan of Work, which was approved by City Council on April 25, 2016.
Mr. Lewis stated that he did not have a problem assisting this group; however, he thought that
Council needs to give them some direction going forward on where to go and how to take the
minutes. He suggested that maybe the members need to be trained on how to take their minutes and
asked if the City Clerk’s Office was willing to train them. Responding, Mrs. McDowell stated that
the City Clerk’s Office would be able to help them and explained that the Clerk’s Office had sent
them several emails with information regarding the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act
(FOIA) and Robert’s Rules of Order. She stated that she did not object to helping them; however,
she reminded members that as turnover happens, the training would be required again, noting that,
currently, the turnover for this group is very high.
Mr. Slavin reminded members that the Council Committee of the Whole/Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee had recommended that the Youth Advisory Committee be suspended
until all minutes of the missing meetings are approved by Council and until Council can discuss
the matter thoroughly. He advised that two (2) weeks had passed and no further meeting
minutes had been provided; therefore, he did not think that Council should vacate the
recommendation, since that condition had not been met. Mr. Slavin stated that the Special Council
Page 38
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 38
Meeting - Budget Review was scheduled to begin the next evening and he believed that this would
be a matter of discussion then.
Mr. Sudler moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation that the Youth Advisory
Committee be suspended until all minutes of the missing meetings are approved by Council
and until Council can discuss the matter thoroughly. The motion was seconded by Mr. Cole
and carried with Mr. Anderson voting no.
PARKS, RECREATION, AND
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee met with
Councilman Anderson presiding.
Presentation - Tiny Home Village Concept (Sue Harris)
Ms. Sue Harris, 241 Pine Street, reviewed a presentation entitled “Promoting
Independence, Cooperation, and Respect for Each Other and the Environment - Port
Hope Delaware Inc.” Ms. Harris thanked members for welcoming herself and her
co-coordinator, Ms. Cathi Kopera, to present their plans for their vision of a new
affordable housing concept, a tiny house village for the homeless. Ms. Harris advised
members that their desire was to make members aware of the tiny village concept,
noting that the biggest piece of the project would be related to the land. She advised
that there was nothing written that would allow for this type of project; therefore, it
would have to be made to work wherever possible. Ms. Harris advised members that
if such developments are well managed, maintained, and self-governed by a board
of directors, they are an asset rather than a detriment to neighborhoods and she
expressed her hope that this would happen somewhere around Delaware soon.
Mr. Neil questioned if there would be lavatories and food facilities. Responding,
Ms. Harris stated that the plans for their village would include bathrooms and
kitchens in the units. She stated that a lot of villages have a community house
instead.
Mr. Neil stated that, from his experience in vocational rehabilitation, there is a
mental aspect and some of the people can be very resistant to doing anything that
they do not want to do; therefore, there should be a screening process. He stated that
there should also be a neighborhood process since there would be those who would
not want such a project in their neighborhood. Mr. Neil felt that this concept would
be difficult to sell.
Ms. Harris agreed; however, she stated her opinion that it made more sense to do
something rather than nothing, noting the need and the ability to save the towns
money.
Mr. Neil advised that the State had passed a common interest community law which
applies to communities such as condos and co-ops, and that there is an ombudsman.
Page 39
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 39
He indicated that the tiny village would also be a common interest community and
suggested they consider an ombudsman because there are problems that groups
cannot agree upon.
Ms. Harris stated that they would start by talking with all those who would be
involved to learn what they need to do and work through each difficulty one (1) step
at a time. She felt that if this could be done elsewhere, it could be done here.
Mr. Lewis advised that he personally supported this initiative 100%, stating this issue
was close to his heart and he had been volunteering to help the homeless since the
age of 15. He expressed his admiration for Ms. Harris and Ms. Kopera in trying to
help clean up homelessness in the City, noting that the City has a homeless problem.
Ms. Harris commented that some had suggested buying tickets for the homeless and
sending them back to where they came from; however, most of the homeless were
born, grew up, and went to school here, noting that one (1) specific homeless
individual had been a chemist for Dupont.
Mrs. Harris advised members that she serves on a committee that is working on
legislation relating to land banking. She stated that New Castle County benefitted
from land bank legislation recently passed in Delaware and it was her hope that Kent
County and the City of Dover would take a look at this concept. Ms. Harris provided
members with a press release dated April 27, 2015 related to Land Bank legislation,
Senate Bill No. 66, and House Bill 287 and Kent County property information.
Mr. Caldwell stated that he had the opportunity to see a tiny home village in
Madison, Wisconsin, and was highly impressed with that community. He explained
that area residents were somewhat reluctant about the concept, not knowing what was
going to take place. Mr. Caldwell indicated that there was no police presence and
they did not have a single problem. He stated that there was no drinking or loud
music, the area was kept clean, and some of the homeless were able to find jobs,
remarking that the Dover community probably needs a lot of help in that area.
Mr. Caldwell indicated that, based on his observations, a tiny community of homes
can be very impressive. He noted that there would be resistance to the homeless but
expressed a desire to help them, stating that when he sees people with bags walking
the streets of Dover, he knows they have a problem. Mr. Caldwell felt that it would
be very valuable to have an example of a tiny community in Delaware, like the
village in Wisconsin.
In response to Mr. Caldwell, Ms. Harris advised members that they had already been
asked by Sussex County to build a village there.
Mr. Anderson stated that affordable housing is one (1) of the goals of the City’s
Comprehensive Plan as well as Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grants. He
expressed his hope that Ms. Harris would work with staff and in the future the City
would be able to adapt a Planned Neighborhood Design to accommodate a tiny home
Page 40
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 40
village. It was Mr. Anderson’s opinion that this needed to happen because people
had been regulated into homelessness in an effort to manipulate the market. He
stated that the current average wage required for the average rent, using income
guidelines, is approximately $16 per hour; however, the average renter is earning less
than $12 per hour; therefore, the average wage does not meet the average rent.
Mr. Anderson indicated that a serious problem is being created, market-based
solutions must be allowed for, and this concept was one (1) possibility. He expressed
his hope that there would be further discussion of this issue.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Quarterly Update
(January, February, and March)
The Committee recommended acceptance of the report.
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Mr. Anderson suggested that members refer any questions to Mrs. Ann Marie
Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, or Mrs. Tracey
Harvey, Planner I.
Mr. Sudler moved for acceptance of the Council Committee of the Whole Report, seconded by
Mr. Neil and carried by a roll call vote of seven (7) yes (Sudler, Neil, Cole, Hosfelt, Hare,
Hutchison, and Slavin) and two (2) no (Anderson and Lewis).
SETTING OF PUBLIC HEARING - ELECTRIC FUND BUDGET
A public hearing on the Electric Revenue Fund Budget is required for compliance with the City of
Dover Electric Revenue Bonds Resolution prior to adoption of the budget. Staff recommended that
the public hearing be set for June 13, 2016 at 7:30 p.m.
Mr. Hare moved to set a public hearing for June 13, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. for the 2016/2017 City
of Dover Electric Fund Budget, seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried.
2016/17 STAFF APPOINTMENTS - CITY COUNCIL (Deferred During the Annual Meeting
of May 9, 2016)
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved for approval of the Staff Appointments for 2016/2017,
seconded by Mr. Neil and, by a unanimous roll call vote, the following appointments were
made:
City Assessor - Cheryl A. Bundek
Building Inspector - Ann Marie Townshend
City Clerk - Traci A. McDowell
Assistant City Clerk - Denise L. Devine
Controller/Treasurer - Donna S. Mitchell
Assistant Controller/Treasurer - Lori Peddicord
Assistant Treasurers - Traci A. McDowell
- Denise L. Devine
Fire Marshal - Deferred
City Solicitor - Nicholas H. Rodriguez
Deputy City Solicitor - William W. Pepper, Sr.
Page 41
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 41
2016/17 COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS - COUNCIL PRESIDENT (Deferred During the
Annual Meeting of May 9, 2016)
Council President Slavin requested that the 2016/2017 Council President Committee Appointments
be deferred.
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved to defer the 2016/17 Council President Committee
Appointments, seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
2016/17 MISCELLANEOUS APPOINTMENTS - COUNCIL PRESIDENT (Deferred During
the Annual Meeting of May 9, 2016)
Council President Slavin requested that the 2016/2017 Council President Miscellaneous
Appointments be deferred.
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved to defer the 2016/2017 Council President Miscellaneous
Appointments, seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
2016/17 COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS - MAYOR (Deferred During the Annual Meeting
of May 9, 2016)
Mayor Christiansen submitted the following appointments for approval:
Compensation Commission
Mayor Christiansen requested that this appointment be deferred.
Dover Fourth of July Celebration Committee
Robin R. Christiansen, Chairman (ex-officio)
Greg Patterson, President/Vice Chairman
Andrea Maucher, Vice President
Jennifer Helms, Treasurer/Secretary
Ann Marie Townshend (Staff Liaison)
Susan Betts
Gail Nemcic
Karen Nickerson
Sarah Zimmerman
Dover Public Library Advisory Commission
Scott W. Cole (Council Liaison Member)
Downtown Dover Partnership Board of Directors
City of Dover Government - Appointed by the Mayor and Confirmed by Council
Robin R. Christiansen, Mayor (Ex-Officio Member)
David L. Anderson - Council Representative
William F. Hare - Council Representative
Council Representative - Mayor Christiansen requests that this appointment be deferred.
Scott D. Koenig - City of Dover Representative
Ann Marie Townshend - City of Dover Representative
Page 42
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 42
Downtown Dover Partnership Board of Directors (Continued)
State Government - Appointed by the Mayor and Confirmed by Council
State of Delaware Representative - Mayor Christiansen requests that this appointment be
deferred.
Private Sector - Appointed by the Mayor and Confirmed by Council
Maxine Lewis - Downtown Retailer/Commercial Property Owner Designee
Todd Stonesifer - Resident of Downtown Area
Real Estate Professional Whose Practice Includes Downtown Area/Commercial Property Owner
- Mayor Christiansen requests that this appointment be deferred.
Election Board
Curtis E. Raymond - Third District
Fourth District - Mayor Christiansen requests that this appointment be deferred.
Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals
Charles Martin, Representative Local Real Estate
Adam M. Perza, Representative of Homeowners
Scott D. Koenig, City Manager
Silver Lake Commission
Nicholas Adams
Tricia Arndt
James Burcham
Zachary Carter
Dean Holden
Lyle Allen Jones
Ann Marie Townshend
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved for approval of the Committee Appointments for
2016/2017, as recommended by Mayor Christiansen. The motion was seconded by Mr. Neil
and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
REAPPOINTMENTS/APPOINTMENTS - RECOMMENDED BY MAYOR CHRISTIANSEN
Mayor Christiansen requested the following reappointments/appointments to the Planning
Commission for a three (3) year term to expire June 1, 2019:
John H. Baldwin, Sr. - Fourth District (Reappointment)
Kenneth Roach - Fourth District
Mayor Christiansen requested the appointment Ms. Andrea Maucher to serve on the Planning
Commission, representing the Second District, for a term to expire June 1, 2018 (to fill the unexpired
term of Michael J. Ambruso, Sr.).
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved for approval of the reappointments/appointments to the
Planning Commission, as recommended by Mayor Christiansen. The motion was seconded
by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Page 43
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 43
RESOLUTION NO. 2016-06 AUTHORIZING SIGNATURES FOR BANKING SERVICES
ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE - CONTROLLER/TREASURER,
ASSISTANT CONTROLLER/TREASURER, AND ASSISTANT TREASURERS
By consent agenda, Mr. Lewis moved for adoption of the proposed resolution, seconded by
Mr. Neil and, by a unanimous roll call vote, Council adopted Resolution No. 2016-06, as
follows:
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SIGNATURES FOR BANKING SERVICES ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE
WHEREAS, the City of Dover's investment policy includes the investment of funds up to $100,000
per banking institution, investments in the State of Delaware Investment Pool, and the purchase and
sale of investment grade corporate bonds, and U.S. Treasury and agency securities; and
WHEREAS, the banking institutions, brokerage firms, trust companies, and other various financial
institutions require an Authorizing Resolution for the opening of accounts, and for purchasing,
selling, transferring, assigning, and handling securities;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the City of Dover, that
the Controller/Treasurer, Assistant Controller/Treasurer, and Assistant Treasurers are hereby
authorized to open accounts with banking institutions and purchase, sell, transfer, assign, and handle
securities and that they are authorized to sign all related forms;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the transactions in these accounts be carried out with any one
signature; and
That the following are the office holders authorized for these purposes, until further notice:
Donna S. Mitchell - Controller/Treasurer
Lori Peddicord - Assistant Controller/Treasurer
Traci A. McDowell - Assistant Treasurer
Denise L. Devine - Assistant Treasurer
ADOPTED: MAY 23, 2016
FIRST READING - PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2016-10
Council President Slavin reminded the public that copies of the proposed ordinance are available at
the entrance of the Council Chambers, on the City’s website at www.cityofdover.com under
“Government,” or by contacting the City Clerk’s Office. Final action by Council on the proposed
ordinance will take place during the Council Meeting of June 13, 2016.
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, advised members that Proposed Ordinance #2016-10 was prepared
by several members of City Staff from the City Clerk’s Office, Finance Department, Human
Resources Department, and City Manager’s Office. He explained that the Proposed Ordinance
would create the generic template for the deferred compensation plan, so that the City can have
various plan documents for the deferred compensation plan. Mr. Koenig noted that all new
Page 44
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 44
employees, except police officers, hired after September 28, 2009 are required to join the deferred
compensation plan as defined in subsection 2-324 of the Dover Code.
Mr. Koenig thanked Councilmen Lewis and Hare for granting the additional latitude during the
discussion of the Proposed Ordinance earlier in the meeting. He explained that, as amended earlier
in the evening, the proposal would allow the non-bargaining component of the workforce to
contribute a minimum of 3% and a maximum of 9% on the expansion schedule that was previously
discussed. Mr. Koenig stated that the remaining employees under this plan would be defined under
the various collective bargaining agreements and/or their plan document. He expressed his
appreciation for the time and effort that Staff and Council had put into this revision, noting that,
going forward, this is the retirement plan for new employees, except police officers.
In accordance with Section 1-9 of the Dover Code, Council acknowledged the First Reading of the
proposed Ordinance as read by the City Clerk, by title only, as follows:
< PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2016-10 AMENDING CHAPTER 2 - ADMINISTRATION,
ARTICLE IV - OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES, DIVISION 8 - DEFERRED
COMPENSATION PLAN
CITY MANAGER’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, thanked the staff who had worked over the past few months to help
draft the FY17 budget that is scheduled for presentation at the Special Council Meeting - Budget
Review beginning tomorrow evening at 6:00 p.m. He stated that there were a number of people that
provided input, calculations, and advice in preparing the fiscal spending plan for FY17 and he would
like to thank them personally for their efforts, prior to beginning the presentation tomorrow.
COUNCIL MEMBERS’ ANNOUNCEMENTS
Council President Slavin reiterated that the Special Council Meeting - Budget Review would begin
tomorrow evening, Tuesday, May 24, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, noting
that the draft budget for FY 2016/2017 was available on the City’s website.
Mr. Hutchison thanked Staff for the new television screens in the Council Chambers, as well as the
new Council nameplates. He stated that the new television screens were a nice addition.
Mr. Slavin wished Ms. Denise Devine, Assistant City Clerk, a happy birthday.
Mr. Hare announced that a Second Council District community meeting was scheduled for Tuesday,
June 21, 2016, at 7:00 p.m. at Capital Baptist Church. He asked Deputy Police Chief Marvin Mailey
to see if someone would be available to attend from the Police Department, and expressed his hope
that someone would also attend from the Planning Department, noting that there would be discussion
regarding property in that area.
Mr. Anderson announced that Nicholas Dadgostar, a Wounded Warrior from Kent County Delaware,
was a Silver Medalist in the recent Invictus Games. He stated that Mr. Dadgostar represented the
Air Force and was one (1) of the United States service members who participated, noting that it is
Page 45
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MAY 23, 2016 PAGE 45
good to see a local individual who overcame adversity doing well. Mr. Anderson extended best
wishes to Mr. Dadgostar and his family.
Mr. Anderson announced that First State Community Action Agency has an office in Dover and is
currently looking for participants who need lead removal, home renovation, or assistance with their
electric bills. He urged people to contact First State Community Action Agency, indicating that
there is more than a million dollars that needs to be spent by November.
Mr. Sudler thanked the entire City of Dover, including members of Council, for attending his
meeting regarding shootings and illegal gang activity in the City of Dover, on Wednesday, May 18,
2016. He also thanked Ms. Ashton Brown from the Delaware State News, and Mr. Jeff Brown from
the Dover Post for covering the meeting. Mr. Sudler indicated that resources were being put together
on the State and local level to combat criminal activity, especially illegal gang formation, in the City
of Dover.
Mr. Neil moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Sudler and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
TRACI A. McDOWELL
CITY CLERK
All ordinances, resolutions, motions, and orders adopted by City Council during their Regular
Meeting of May 23, 2016, are hereby approved.
ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
MAYOR
/TM
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS-PRESENTATIONS-ATT&EXH\Council-Minutes\2016\05-23-2016.wpd
Exhibits
Exhibit #1 - “Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League (MWUL) Dover Committee” Presentation, provided by
Dr. Shekelia Hines
Exhibit #2 - Correspondence dated May 20, 2016 from Mr. David Sheppard, General Counsel for DSU, regarding the
prospective relinquishment of City of Dover’s transfer right in the Delaware Civic Center Corporation land
Page 46
EXHIBIT #1
Regular City Council Meeting of 05/23/2016
Metropolitan Wilmington
Urban League (MWUL)
Dover Committee
Page 47
Introduction
Shekelia Hines, PT , DPT
Physical Therapist
Chair of MWUL Dover Committee
ShekeliaHines@gmail.com
(302) 300 - 0856
Page 48
Our Movement
Founded in 1910 in New York City, NY
Nonprofit, nonpartisan, community based movement
Professional Staffed
MWUL 115th Affiliate
Pursues the National Urban League 5 point Agenda
Page 49
Five point Empowerment Agenda
1. Education and Youth Empowerment
2. Economic Empowerment
3. Health and Quality of Life Empowerment
4. Civic Engagement and Leadership Empowerment
5. Civil Rights and Racial Justice Empowerment
Page 50
Founder of MWUL Mr. James H. Gilliam, Sr.
● In 1998, Civil Rights Veteran James H. Gilliam, Sr., a former member of
the National Urban League’s (NUL) Board of Trustees, was prompted
by Mayor James H. Sills to start an Urban League affiliate in Wilmington
Delaware.
● In six months, Mr. Gilliam worked with a small group of colleagues and
a minority-owned consulting firm, [ARISE International], to marshal
funding and partnership commitments that totaled $1 million. He also
assembled a diverse sponsoring committee that included more than 70
community leaders from public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
● In June 1999, Mr. Gilliam made a formal presentation for affiliation to
the NUL. One month later, MWUL became the 115th affiliate in the
history of the national organization.
● It remains the fastest start of any Urban League affiliate in the later half
James H. Gilliam, Sr. of the 20th century.
Page 51
Mission statement:
To empower people of color to
achieve economic self-reliance,
parity, and civil rights.
Page 52
Young Professionals
(www.mwulyp.org)
Auxiliary Organization
Fastest growing segment
Made up of members who support the mission
Defined as “Anyone proficient in what they do.”
Various occupations are welcomed
Page 53
MWUL Young Professional Video Introduction
Page 54
Mini Recapture of 2015
(See Annual Report for 2015)
July 2015 October 2015
June 2015
Civic engagement committee
Partnered with Christiana Cultural Economic empowerment committee
held a week long community
Arts Center to assist with the annual held a financial literacy conference at
organizing training. Delaware Technical College
concert series at the Grand Opera
House.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
September 2015
August 2015
March 2015 Organized the Sunday Breakfast Hosted a weekend with Nascar at Delaware
MWUL YP’s Held a Launch week to celebrate the Mission to distribute 3,000 book bags State University for potential career and
revitalization of the young professionals. filled with school and worked with internship opportunities with Bubba Wallace.
complexities of color to distribute an
Worked with Habitat for Humanity in Claymont, DE. additional 1,500 book bags. This is a small sample of all events by the YP’s.
Page 55
Dover Committee YP’s
June
May Business and
April Entrepreneur Training
“What’s In Your Future”
Held Campaign Education workshop
Bootcamp Training.
Page 56
Why now in the Dover
area?
● Young professionals in the
Dover area expressed
interest and a need to
serve their community.
Page 57
EXHIBIT #2
Regular City Council Meeting of 05/23/2016
DELA\VARE STATE UNIVERSITY
OFFICE OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL
May 20, 2016
VIA HAND DELIVERY
Tim Slavin
Council President
Dover City Council
P.O. Box 475
Dover, DE 19903-0475
RE: Prospective Relinquishment of City of Dover's Transfer Right in the Delaware Civic
Center Corporation Land
Dear Council President Slavin:
I write in response to the feedback received by Delaware State University ("DSU") from the
members of the Legislative, Finance and Administration Committee ("Committee") at the Committee's
meeting on April 26, 2016 (as part of the meeting ofthe Council Committee of the Whole).
In light of the issues raised during the Committee hearing, I thought it advisable to give the
Council Members some factual background regarding the Delaware Civic Center Corporation ("DCCC") 1
and the land under its control, as well as specifics on the potentia l economic benefit to DSU and the City
of Dover ("City"), if DSU is successful in its efforts to acquire and build a Convocation Center on the land
in question.
Background
Pursuant to a deed entered into between the City and the DCCC on December 11, 2001, the City
transferred 41.5 acres of land ("Land") to the DCCC for consideration in the amount of one dollar ($1)
("Deed"). The Land had formerly operated as a landfill, more commonly known as the "Frazier Pit"
Landfill. Contemporaneously, the DCCC also obtained, from third parties, ownership of two other
parcels adjacent to the Land consisting of 6.34 acres and 1.86 acres, respectively. Collectively, these
approximately 50 acres were intended to be used to facilitate the construction and operation of a civic
center in Dover and, by so doing, achieve the express purpose for which the DCCC was created .
Language within the Deed provided, in pertinent part, that "[i]n the event construction of a civic
center project is not commenced ... within ten (10) years of the recording of this deed" the City could
compel the DCCC to transfer the Land back to the City by the payment of ten dollars ($10) ("Transfer
Right"). However, in 2009, the DCCC was voided by the Secretary of State for failing to file annual
1
The Delaware Civic Center Corporation was created through legislative action by the General Assembly in the FY
199j~ijg~~. ~~'ilJ PONT lllGI IWAY• DU VER, UL LA WARI ~ 19901 -'.1.'.1.7'7 • (302) 857··7~;4 I • FAX (30::') 857- 7-10 I
J)di111are Stak l.'11iH·rsit~ i~ an ~q11,d opp,1rl1111i1y employer and docs 110! discT1miuak bccatl';c <>frac..:. \:l'<'t:d. 11atifl11al Pr dh11ir Prigi11. ·c\ i>r disahilit.1.
Page 58
reports. Because the DCCC was voided before the ten (10) year period had elapsed and the City could
exercise its Transfer Right, ownership of the Land has remained with the DCCC.
Consequently, in order for the City to regain ownership of the Land, the DCCC would first have
to be resuscitated and the City, thereafter, would have to exercise its Transfer Right through the
mechanism provided for in the Deed. However, were the City to waive its Transfer Right, the DCCC,
upon resuscitation, would be free to transfer the Land to another entity, such as DSU.
Potential Economic Benefits
The following is a high-level assessment of the potential economic benefits to DSU and,
ostensibly, to the City, if DSU is successful in its efforts to build a Convocation Center on the Land:
• The Delaware Convocation Center ("DCC") is estimated to temporarily generate a total of 760
full-time equivalent ("FTE") jobs during its construction. Total permanent jobs would range
between 130 -180 FTE's depending on the level of operations at the venue.
• The DCC is estimated to host between .144 - 176 events annually (60% of which would be non-
DSU events catering to the community-at-large and out-of-town visitors).
• Estimates reflect that the DCC would generate local spending between $5.4 - $7.2MM annually.
• The initial direct spending and subsequent rounds of re-spending would impact the local
economy through a multiplier effect, prospectively bringing the total economic activity (output)
generated by DCC operations to range from $7.0 to $9.4MM annually.
• Over a 30-year period, the net present value of total output generated by the DCC is estimated
to range from $135 to $183MM.
Proposal
Ultimately, DSU seeks to have the City relinquish its Transfer Right to the Land so as to permit
the DCCC, once resuscitated, to transfer the Land to DSU, so that DSU can attempt to accomplish the
very laudable goal that motivated the City to transfer the Land 15 years ago. In an effort to facilitate this
request, DSU is willing to agree to any necessary utility easements on the Land sought by the City.
As always, DSU appreciates your, the Council's and the City's attention to and consideration of
this request, and is happy to discuss this matter further at the Council's convenience.
David K. Sheppard
General Counsel