Downtown Dover Partnership Board Meeting Packet.pdf

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Wednesday, December 6, 2023 7:30 a.m. City of Dover Conference Room 1. Welcome 2. Agenda 3. Minutes (October 25) 4. Police Report 5. Executive Committee/Staff Updates i. Executive Session – Personnel 6. Property Updates i. 136 W. Loockerman 7. Downtown Dover Master Plan Priorities i. Redevelopment initiatives a. MOU 120 S. Governor’s Ave. b. EPA grant application c. Site readiness updates ii. Critical Improvements iii. Design manual/pattern book iv. Proposed St. Jones Riverwalk public meeting (See packet.) 8. Legislative Updates 9. Other Business 10. Public Comment 11. Board member updates 12. Adjourn Next DDP board meeting: Wednesday, January 25 7:30 a.m. City of Dover Conference Room Holiday events o Police Dept./NeighborGood Partners holiday event Sat., Dec. 9, Legislative Hall 12-4 p.m. o Dashing Through Dover Dec. 16 6:30 p.m. Loockerman St. (parade) Agenda items as listed may not be considered in sequence. Pursuant to 29 DEL. C. 10004(e)(2), this agenda is subject to change to include the addition or deletion of items, including executive sessions, which arise at the time of the meeting. Downtown Dover Partnership Board Meeting Agenda – December 6, 2023

Board Meeting 10/25/23 City of Dover Conference Room BOARD MEETING MINUTES ATTENDANCE: Mayor Robin Christiansen, Councilwoman Tricia Arndt, Johnathan Street, Will Grimes, Stacy Downing, Pete Bradley, Councilman Fred Neil, Codi Canasa, Todd Stonesifer, Donny Legans, Dawn Melson Williams, John Van Gorp, Dina Vendetti STAFF: Jordan Resh, Diane Laird, Tina Bradbury, Ken Anderson CALL TO ORDER Stonesifer opened the meeting at 7:32 a.m. AGENDA Councilman Neil mo�oned to approve the agenda. Canasa seconded the mo�on. Unanimous approval. MINUTES Mayor Chris�ansen mo�oned to approve the mee�ng minutes from September. Street seconded the mo�on. Unanimous approval. POLICE REPORT Mayor Chris�ansen shared that the Atorney General atend the Dover City Council mee�ng and they are working to recruit new police officers and promote safety downtown. He added that there is a na�onwide shortage of police officers and that he is working to improve recruitment tac�cs. He shared that some officers are holding ceremonious posi�ons and are unable for policing but hoping to return soon. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE/STAFF UPDATES Laird shared that the grant was received for $3 million and is deposited in the DDP accounts. She added that collabora�on with the city is taking place to manage how to report data. Laird shared that changes were implemented to the Economic Vitality Commitee to prepare for the influx of funds and restructure the DDP to effec�vely distribute the funding. She added that commitee and team structures, such as which Rick Ferrell spoke on, the Cri�cal Improvements Commitee, was a pilot for ongoing restructuring. The Site Readiness commitee will be made up of Bill Winters, Mitch May, Diane, Tina, Ken, and Dave Hugg. She added that Unlock the Block is a commitee that s�ll meets as needed, such as for REAP (Reten�on Expansion Assistance Program) and Revolving Loan Fund, comprised of resource partners such as NeighborGood Partners. Laird presented the concept for a fourth Board Mee�ng 10/25/23 Downtown Dover Partnership Dra� 1

Board Meeting 10/25/23 City of Dover Conference Room working group for business and resident recruitment – Mayor, Mitch May, Dave Hugg, Kim Adams, John Van Gorp, Charlie Rodriguez, Doug Ferris, Mike Glick, and Mike Harrington. Laird added that the commitee structure ensures high quality, efficiency, and confiden�ality as the projects move forward. Councilman Neil mo�oned to restructure the Economic Vitality Commitee into four working groups – Cri�cal Improvements Review Panel, Site Readiness Commitee, Unlock the Block, and Business and Resident Recruitment. Canasa seconded the mo�on and opened the discussion. Canasa asked if two new sites – Post Office and “Old Acme” have business opportuni�es. Mayor Christensen responded that the old Post Office has commercial spaces and residen�al units. Canasa asked about the rent amounts, no�ng that the master plan recommended mixed-income housing op�ons. Mayor Chris�ansen shared that more informa�on would be available a�er Friday. Stonesifer added that conversa�ons are taking place to plan for development, and concepts to date include a grocery store, daycare, and fitness center. He added that the commercial ameni�es aim to atract residents, so that their needs can be met by nearby available services. He noted that housing plans to be lower than it could be in the area with opportuni�es for subsidies to reduce the cost and reducing the cost of living generally through access to ameni�es. Councilman Neil noted that zoning changes are being considered by the city, which could impact residen�al recruitment through means such as funding for public ameni�es. Grimes asked if the work plans will need to be revised a�er the outcome of the mo�on. Unanimous approval - Restructure the Economic Vitality Commitee into four working groups – Cri�cal Improvements Review Panel, Site Readiness Commitee, Unlock the Block, and Business and Resident Recruitment. PROPERTY UPDATES Bradbury shared that Key to Life is awai�ng their final CO and an�cipate opening soon. She added that many revisions have taken place and funding from the EDGE grant, among others, allowed them to open and should operate soon. She added the former Interfaith site’s environmental analysis is underway. MASTER PLAN UPDATES Board Mee�ng 10/25/23 Downtown Dover Partnership Dra� 2

Board Meeting 10/25/23 City of Dover Conference Room Anderson shared that a mee�ng took place with John Starkey and Greg Paterson from the Governor’s office to update from their previous mee�ngs. Anderson added that proposals are being considered for 120 S Governors 1) with no parking (~$14 mil project), 2) parking across the street on S Bradford, clarifying that it is not “129 S Governors” but the “Mul�-Modal Transporta�on Hub” ($100+ million project). Stonesifer asked the board to refer to the project as the transporta�on hub moving forward. Anderson added that the Governor’s office recommended mee�ng with DART for language about transporta�on center and has posi�ve support to date. He clarified that the preferred project is the mul�-modal transporta�on hub. Anderson shared that development at 120 S Governors is the catalyst for other projects in downtown Dover, and it is important to create a sense of urgency around this priority project, such as “we are working at a 30-month construc�on cycle and are working diligently.” He added that they are working with nearby stakeholders to an�cipate needs surrounding the project. He noted that the goal is a final agreement and architectural design from Mosaic and Colonial within the next 45 days. Anderson shared that the DDD applica�on is available in February, and they are working quickly to be prepared for concurrent projects and large-scale development. He added that the Governor’s Office expressed support for this project. Laird shared that the DART Director is also an advocate for Dover and expressed support for the project as well. Canasa shared support for the project and noted the growing public awareness of the project. Anderson added that DDP has received calls about poten�al residency opportuni�es. Bradbury shared that they are working with “Pace your Life” a medical service provider interested in moving downtown and a project with DSU, proposals that were entered for the Post Office and not accepted. EPA GRANT FOR BROWNFIELDS Bradbury shared that tes�ng on DDP owned sites is taking place. Since the proper�es are DDP owned, they cannot be funded by DNREC without an MOU/addi�onal funding. She added that Environmental Alliance was hired to assist with the grant applica�on and are an�cipa�ng over $1 mil in funding. The grant will be entered in November with an outcome in July and funding received by October 2024. She asked for a West End Pathways study, and Anderson added that he received the document. Canasa asked what is being cleaned up. Bradbury shared that sites that have chemical products may have contaminated soil that needs to be remedied, such as at Sankofa Intercultural Center. Anderson Board Mee�ng 10/25/23 Downtown Dover Partnership Dra� 3

Board Meeting 10/25/23 City of Dover Conference Room added that remedia�on is required at �mes for the sale of property. Mayor Chris�ansen shared that in the Minor St Alley in S. Governors there used to be a dry cleaner, which may have caused contamina�on. CRITICAL IMPROVEMENTS Laird shared that up to 2 million in improvements in an�cipated to be spurred by the CIP funding and that applica�ons are going out in next few weeks for new projects, an�cipa�ng poten�ally two projects. Legans shared that he is ready to open and host an event this week at the newly opened Rail Haus. Laird added that shortly Legans will receive the second installment of payout for CIP, reflec�ng a successful applicant. Stonesifer noted that projects happening at the same �me will help accelerate at the master plan implementa�on process. Bradbury requested Legans to provide a proforma to report on the public and private funding received for the project. Legans offered to consult upcoming CIP applicants through the process of recrui�ng funds. DDD EXPANSION Stonesifer shared that the DDP is working to expand the DDD boundaries to make more sites eligible for funding. He added that the City recently lost their Planning Director and a Planner, meaning that the capacity for planning has changed and would be assisted by the DDD boundary expansion. Bradbury shared that the current expansion aims to include the old Post Office, Frasier’s/Tap House, and PNC. but that addi�onal expansions will be proposed for February 2025. Councilwoman Arndt shared that State Planning also works with DSHA for DDD boundaries, recommending contac�ng her colleague to prepare for the documents for expansion and that she cannot par�cipate directly due to conflict of interest. Van Gorp asked if there are any consequences of par�cipa�ng in the DDD expansion and if all businesses are suppor�ve. Laird responded that the DDD expansion makes funding eligible and does not otherwise change the business. She added that the old post office development project cannot move forward without the expansion. Stonesifer added that the “radical arrival” point is within the eastern DDD expansion. Laird added that large scale commercial redevelopment has not taken place in 10 years in Dover, and finally the projects are taking place as a result of the DDP’s work. ARTS AND CREATIVE PLACEMAKING Board Mee�ng 10/25/23 Downtown Dover Partnership Dra� 4

Board Meeting 10/25/23 City of Dover Conference Room Canasa shared the video from the Community Crosswalks Pain�ng event on Oct. 1, available on DowntownDover.com on the Crosswalks webpage. Stonesifer noted that many permits and approvals are required to paint the crosswalks, and thanked Resh for her organiza�on. Canasa shared the importance of celebra�ng wins and showcasing the work the community is doing. TRANSPORTATION LINKAGES Stonesifer shared that Dover Kent MPO is conduc�ng a transporta�on study, working with DSU, DAFB, and other stakeholders in a year long study, to be completed in Spring 2024. He added that the public workshop is taking place tomorrow, Thurs. 26 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Dover Public Library. ST JONES RIVERWALK Stonesifer shared that the proposed site is a brownfield, and the goal is to remedy the site, rehabilitate exis�ng proper�es, and take advantage of natural resources in downtown Dover. He added that the City of Dover is leading the effort and had been working on the project in advance of the master plan but is taking on the project collabora�vely. Laird shared that the community nearby is challenged and would benefit greatly from the public ameni�es. Canasa added that the skatepark is a great addi�on, reflec�ng needs that have been communicated by community members. HOUSING Stonesifer shared that a residen�al survey is available at �nyurl.com/DoverHousing for those interested in moving downtown. LEGISLATIVE UPDATES Stonesifer shared that the Governor is going to present a first dra� of the budget in November and that the DDP has been working with the Governor’s staff to be included. He added that last year $3 mil was received and more will be requested this year. OTHER BUSINESS Van Gorp shared that the Physician Recruitment team has done a stellar job, with a dozen posi�ons started since July and an addi�onal 15 for June 1, 2024. He added that the program is growing, and the reten�on rate is promising, bringing new members into the community as well. Board Mee�ng 10/25/23 Downtown Dover Partnership Dra� 5

Board Meeting 10/25/23 City of Dover Conference Room Councilman Neil invited everyone to a con�nental breakfast on Dec 6 at 7:30 a.m. in the City of Dover Conference Room to celebrate his 90th birthday in November. Canasa shared that Des�na�on Downtown Dover has OktDoverFest earlier this month with great atendance and ul�mately great weather. She added that people came earlier, indica�ng that they had planned their day around atending. Canasa shared that engagement was at an all �me high with patrons indica�ng they atended because of her marke�ng. She noted that the adver�sement budget was not fully used, and that organic sharing of informa�on was a successful promo�onal tool. Melson-Williams shared that Planner Julian and Director of Planning and Inspec�ons Mary Ellen Gray have moved on from their posi�ons in the past month. She added that they were working on zoning revisions prior to their leaving, and the revisions are being taken into considera�on by the council. She offered to share the concepts presented at the mee�ng and that the full packet is available on the city website. Melson-Williams added that more specific language will be added to the recommenda�ons, and then the official first reading will take place to start the formal review process as early as December, with a public hearing in January, and ac�on in early February. She added that mee�ng delays could delay the process. Melson-Williams shared some of the changes recommended, 1) building uses requirement (such as height, being one of the biggest changes presented to a total of 10 stories, and ‘stepping back’ architecture), 2) parking requirements. She added that the step back is a strategy to prevent a “cannon effect”, making the pedestrian feel that the building is small, but development is available. Street shared that the Old Sears Building is an example of a step back building. Street commented that the county is progressing on a similar parking requirement change, sharing that developers he works with study parking and aim to provide parking to their tenants and removing the parking requirement will not change the developer’s recruitment of parking anyway. Stonesifer added that the parking hub will benefit the public as well as being beneficial to the tenants. Melson-Williams added that the process takes �me, and that hiring new planners is underway. She added that she issued the CO for Rail Haus. Anderson asked if any ques�ons arose from the zoning recommenda�ons reading. Melson-Williams shared that there was some concern over the ten-story changes, such as how the Fire Department will reach those heights. The other ques�on was related to height in response to proximity to the DAFB and maximum distance into the ground to not disrupt land. Stonesifer expressed excitement for the work of the council to support the master plan. Board Mee�ng 10/25/23 Downtown Dover Partnership Dra� 6

Board Meeting 10/25/23 City of Dover Conference Room Mayor Chris�ansen shared that he prepared an emergency demoli�on for 130-134 S. New St. to get the aten�on of the property owner. He added that he spoke with an atorney/director of DSHA and was instructed not to tear down the buildings because they have an MOU and have been working towards foreclosures, promising to repair and provide housing to low-income residents. Vende� shared that the annual holiday gi� auc�on is taking place tonight, no�ng the high caliber of items and the return of in-person bidding. She added that the event is a fundraiser for the chamber and is open to the public. Street reported on the smart ligh�ng system of downtown – he contacted Dover Electric and discovered the lights are LED, can be brightened/darkened, and can be expanded, such as adding gunshot detectors. He added that the City can currently turn the lights on/off from an employee’s (Paul’s) phone, and that the city and its contractors have had issues. Street noted that the capabili�es/expansions can be purchased but have not been purchased yet. Street added that he has not heard reports of a plan to purchase addi�onal technology capabili�es yet. Canasa asked if the lights are Wi-Fi/hardwired. Street responded that the issue is with the so�ware. Canasa asked if the cameras for downtown are working, and Street responded that the issues are not en�rely linked. Grimes shared that they received a building permit for the construc�on of a commercial building on the corner of Division and N New St. He added that the building will be used for NeighborGood Partners staff and the entrepreneur space in partnership with DSU. Dr. Downing shared that the DSU Homecoming parade was the largest in DSU history. She added that a significant number of alumni and community members came to par�cipate in the homecoming events, pursuing a beter understanding of capacity and behavior to promote a safe and fun environment. She clarified that the DSU Downtown day was high quality, but some issues arose on DSU main campus that they will improve on in the future. She added that DSU is mee�ng with the transporta�on pathway team, and they wish to ensure that students u�lize projects underway by the DDP. Bradley shared that the county’s branding change to “Visit Central Delaware” is underway, including three logo redesigns. He added that they have a new sign at the office on the highway. He added that Dover Motor Speedway is a great partner, announcing the Phish Fes�val, a Car Show, and other events that promote tourism to Dover through DMS. Bradley shared that Gi� of Lights is returning and Board Mee�ng 10/25/23 Downtown Dover Partnership Dra� 7

Board Meeting 10/25/23 City of Dover Conference Room improving from last year. He added that Firefly will be announced in November whether it will happen, and that regardless the space will be used for concerts/smaller fes�vals like the upcoming Phish Fest. Bradley shared that the Car Show has a following from around the country, with vendors, ac�vi�es, etc. and no current loca�on in the mid-Atlan�c. He added that the Gi� of Lights will have a new entrance to reduce the disrup�on to those living in the neighboring areas. Bradbury announced Street’s birthday and the board wished him a happy birthday. PUBLIC COMMENT N/A ADJOURNMENT Councilman Neil mo�oned to adjourn. Grimes seconded the mo�on. Unanimous approval to adjourn the mee�ng. JR Next DDP Board Mee�ng: Wed. Dec. 6, 7:30 a.m. City of Dover Conference Room Board Mee�ng 10/25/23 Downtown Dover Partnership Dra� 8

Thursday, December 14th at 6 PM Christ Episcopal Church- 523 S State Street, Dover What It Is The St. Jones River area, a few blocks from Legislative Hall, is known for being rundown and unsafe. The area: Has been used as a local dump Sits close to a coal storage facility Contains a disused sewer pipe Hosts several abandoned buildings What It Can Be This development project aims to turn the Riverfront into a vibrant community space. Proposed uses: Family-friendly Park Event Venue Waterfront Eatery To RSVP: Join us for a community Text “REGISTER” to (302) 207-5350 or visit our website to learn more: conversation where you bit.ly/dover-riverfront can ask questions and share your input. Dinner will be provided, space is limited. Hosted by Namati’s EMBARC Program