Downtown Dover Partnership Board Revised Packet

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Wednesday, March 27, 2024 7:30 a.m. City of Dover Conference Room AGENDA (REVISED 3/25/24) 1. Welcome 2. Agenda 3. Minutes (February) 4. Police Report Sgt. Lynch 5. Executive Committee/Staff Updates i. Franchise Tax ii. Nominations Committee 6. Property Updates i. 136 W. Loockerman St. (Tenant: Key to Life Juice Bar) ii. 120 S. Governor’s Ave. (Tenants: auto parts/day care) iii. 39 S West St, Dover, DE (Tenant: Inner City Cultural League) 7. Downtown Dover Master Plan Priorities i. C-2 Zoning ii. ITB (Invitation to Bid) for demolition 680-684 Forest St. iii. Dover Kent MPO FY 25 iv. Other 8. Legislative Updates 9. Other Business 10. Board member updates 11. Public Comment 12. Adjourn Next DDP board meeting: Wednesday, April 24, 7:30 a.m. City of Dover Conference Room 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 – March 27, 2024

Board Meeting 2/28/24 City of Dover Conference Room BOARD MEETING MINUTES ATTENDANCE: Councilman Fred Neil, Sarah Keifer, Todd Stonesifer, Dave Hugg, Anastasia Jackson, Codi Canasa, John Van Gorp, Sharon Duca, Pete Bradley, Donny Legans, Councilwoman Tricia Arndt, Stacy Downing, Kim Adams, Linda Parkowski, Jonathan Street STAFF: Jordan Resh, Diane Laird CALL TO ORDER Stonesifer opened the meeting at 7:31 a.m. Laird introduced the guest, Anastasia Jackson, DE State Main Street Coordinator and Kent County Business Manager. Jackson added that she is attending the meeting to review the accreditation for Downtown Dover Partnership for National Main Street. Laird added that the Division of Small Business was once the Delaware Economic Development Office. Jackson noted that when she started DE had 12 Main Street programs and there are now 18, with the next step to seek funding for the groups. Jackson added that she is available to assist small businesses in Kent County and had worked with Legans previously to receive resources for Rail Haus. AGENDA Councilman Neil motioned to approve the agenda. Canasa seconded the motion. Unanimous approval. MINUTES Councilman Neil motioned to approve the previous meeting minutes. John Van Gorp seconded the motion. Unanimous approval. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE/STAFF UPDATES Main Street Self-Assessment Laird shared an overview of the Main Street Accreditation, noting that DDP is a Main Street America Program. She added that Main Street requires accreditation and a committee structure, and accreditation requires 50+ measurements to be self-reported on. Laird added that Jackson will review the self-assessment to confirm that criteria is being met. Laird shared that the area is marked as a “district of workers and residents” for Main Street, with the goal of increasing opportunities and resources for those living and coming into the area. Laird added that after Jackson’s review, the Board Meeting 2/28/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 1

Board Meeting 2/28/24 City of Dover Conference Room assessment will be reviewed by the National Main Street. Jackson noted that DDP has accomplished many Main Street goals and has been a great asset to Dover. Annual Report Laird shared that the Annual Report is available online, showcasing: • A near month-to-month list of accomplishments • A plein air image of downtown • Information about the Yiftee programming that infused funding into downtown stores. • CDCC Economic Development Achievement Award • Critical Improvements Program (projected $7M investment for downtown) • Events and activities (noting that priority has been to implement the Master Plan, although events are still being planned as well) • Parking development and micromobility planning through Downtown Dover Pathways Study. Laird added that Parking and Safety are a top concern reported for downtown, and the plan will help accommodate new residents and the overall growth of downtown. • Funding from corporate sponsors, grant awards, and other funding streams. • Projected goals for 2024, including groundbreaking of construction and short- and long-term wins. Laird noted that the Annual Report was presented to Council with a question about the Assets/Balance sheet, which was revised since the reporting to better reflect the information available. Councilman Neil motioned to approve the 2023 Annual Report. Canasa seconded the motion. Unanimous approval. The Hive on Loockerman Jackson shared that she met Chevonne Boyd of the Hive two years ago, with the first round not receiving a pitch invite for the EDGE grant, but this most recent round being awarded. Jackson noted that Boyd received support from the Division of Small Business, DDP, and SBDC to receive funding. Laird noted that Boyd has purchased the former Bel Boutique and renovated the space for meetings and pop-ups, such as for Small Business Saturday. Laird added that The Hive, Rail Haus, and Key to Life are three downtown Dover EDGE grant recipients to date. She added that Boyd’s property had to be renovated to be approved for assembly, but that she worked with business developers and the City Manager to receive approval. Canasa asked if her space provides tables and chairs, and Laird responded that all furniture is lightweight and set up to accommodate any event. PROPERTY UPDATES Board Meeting 2/28/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 2

Board Meeting 2/28/24 City of Dover Conference Room Stonesifer shared that the purchasing of the properties discussed at the last meeting is underway. DOWNTOWN DOVER MASTER PLAN PRIORITIES Governor’s Funding Stonesifer shared that the Governor, his team, local legislatures, stakeholders, and former Downtown Dover Partnership members were hosted on a walking tour of downtown Dover. He added that relationship building, PR, and showcasing downtown/the Hive took place successfully. 120 S. Governors Stonesifer shared that development must take place for 120 S. Governors and the mixed-use multi- modal transportation hub, working with Mosaic to progress forward. Laird added that a 501c3 needs to be registered to allow DDP to access available funding, such as DDD grants, to continue development. She added that an attorney was selected, and an agreement is planned to be signed soon, leading to organizational changes that will create funding opportunities for the DDP. She added that the parking structure will be developed to provide housing for residential units at 120 S. Governors. Laird noted that the City is pursuing C2 Zoning changes, such as reducing required parking, to allow development to take place. Stonesifer added that C2 Zoning Changes for the master plan were spearheaded by Mary Ellen Gray and taken over by Dawn Melson-Williams, which has passed the first round of council, then to the planning commission with no negative response from constituents. Next the changes will be sent back to the Council for final reading and voting. Stonesifer suggested that letters of support are shared with the council in advance of the final meeting. Street added, as a member of the planning commission, that the C2 Zoning change now puts parking as the responsibility of the developer, who will already research and plan for parking to have quality and competitive housing for tenants. Stonesifer added that other C2 Zoning changes include the step back requirement, which will keep the appearance of 3-4 stories of buildings, even if development goes higher. Hugg noted that the county/Keifer and her team updated their codes to be more contemporary and supportive of development in downtown Dover. Laird thanked Parkowski and Zachary Prebula for expressing his public support at the planning commission’s meeting. Pace Your Life Hugg shared that DSU acquired former Wesley College properties during their acquisition. He added that the deed said that buildings had to be used for educational purposes and if they choose not to, the City Board Meeting 2/28/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 3

Board Meeting 2/28/24 City of Dover Conference Room has the right to repurchase the property. He added that DSU offered the property to the City, and the City declined to purchase it. He added that DSU is making renovations to the property and will maintain several parking spots to accommodate delivery/drop off for Pace Your Life. Downing added that Pace Your Life is an adult medical service/wellness center. Parkowski noted that the tenant had applied for the former Post Office and thanked Hugg for maintaining a relationship with the vendor and creatively connecting him to another site to keep his business downtown. Hugg added that the former Post Office site was not an ideal location for the medical center, but wanted to work together to find a location that suits the City’s and the business’ needs. Parkowski noted that the wellness center in Milford is top-quality, investing in extensive renovations and providing comprehensive care and services. She added that the business had sought out Dover directly, as federal funding was available in the zip code. Street noted that the Planning Commission and Council must vote to agree that development needs to take place and Pace Your Life needs to be supported in their effort to move downtown. He noted that support from these groups is essential for development to move forward, and members will need to see the vision and be informed about why these projects are important. Councilwoman Arndt responded that she would accept calls in advance of Council meetings to be prepared for these discussions/voting. Parkowski added that a cultural shift must take place so that the Council and Planning Commission want to support economic development efforts such as this. Stonesifer noted that the culture is shifting, as C2 zoning changes and other progressive voting from the City and County reflect a step in this direction. Street noted that Legans presented to Planning Commission and successfully receiving support for the zoning changes that allowed approval for Rail Haus. Laird asked if Pace Your Life needs to present to the Planning Commission, and Hugg responded that they will not need to. Laird added that DDD zoning changes that recently occurred allow Pace Your Life to apply for DDD funding and the associated rebate for development costs. Critical Improvements Laird shared that Theresa Owens, owner of BLUVintage and Stonerail Market applied for Critical Improvements funding for her recent completed redevelopment project, Stonerail Market, which includes first floor commercial restaurant (serving alcohol) and a top floor apartment. She added that Stonerail Market also added ADA compliance, such as for the bathrooms, and life safety, such as the sprinklers and commercial kitchen renovations. Laird described Stonerail Market as a “legacy” project, in Board Meeting 2/28/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 4

Board Meeting 2/28/24 City of Dover Conference Room which funding can be awarded to projects that are already completed, to support business owners who have invested in their downtown properties. Stonesifer added that the program aims to retain and recruit new business and suggested that this funding will thank her for her investment and not penalize her for completing her work in advance of the program’s funding being available. Councilman Neil motioned to approve Stonerail Market for Critical Improvements Program funding for $37,500 to go towards her completed project. Canasa seconded the motion. Van Gorp asked if the project was already reviewed by the Critical Improvements Program Committee. Laird responded that the Committee voted unanimously to approve funding and had reviewed the application extensively. Unanimous approval of the motion. Dover Kent MPO FY25 Transportation Planning Request Laird shared that the previous request to Dover Kent MPO was taken on, leading to the Downtown Dover Pathways Study, which is projected to be completed by the end of June. She added that a FY25 study request is being proposed to explore street activation to increase foot traffic/eyes on the street, such as balancing the sidewalk space with parking, adding parklets, and other strategies developed by the MPO. Hugg added that the infrastructure changes are being researched by the City’s consultant and discussions are being held to determine how infrastructure changes can also support the future of the master plan implementation. He noted that $1.7M was awarded to the city to pursue infrastructure improvements downtown. Laird noted that if awarded, the MPO would start working July 1, and could work alongside the City’s consultant to improve infrastructure and implement activation strategies of the master plan. Stonesifer noted that when the MPO supports the plan, it is funded by the MPO and DelDOT is likely to approve and help fund the outcomes of their studies. He added that sources of funding will also be provided by the MPO because of their study. Laird noted that at least one firm plans to apply for the bid from the MPO for the project. Hugg asked if a match is required for the project. Laird responded that a 10% match is required, which for the Pathways project ($145,000) required $14,500. DelDOT provides an additional 10% and MPO covers the remainder of the cost. Board Meeting 2/28/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 5

Board Meeting 2/28/24 City of Dover Conference Room Status of ITB for 680-684 Forest St. Stonesifer shared that two responses were received for the bid to demolish west end property, with a bid opening taking place yesterday. He added that a decision is expected to be made next week with both bids quoted at under $100,000. Laird added that the site found no remediation issues, but had squatters and needed to be boarded up, so are looking to remove the structure as quickly as possible. Street asked if the utilities need to be cut off for demolition. Laird responded that Ken Anderson was working with Sharon Duca/the City to explore the issue. Duca responded that cutting off at the main site is required, but a request can be made to Hugg to waive the requirement. Street asked if the Economic Vitality Committee must approve the bid, or if the committee/himself can view the property. Laird agreed that a walkthrough can be arranged in advance of demolition. Hugg shared that Dover Kent MPO presented to council last night to report on their work, adding that they have a consultant hosting a public meeting in about a month to explore other issues alongside the Pathways study, such as freight/truck movements, which will be important for businesses such as a grocery store, that may be coming downtown. Stonesifer asked if the project is separate from the Pathways Study. Hugg responded that the project is separate but reflects a continuum of projects that progress the development of the city. LEGISLATIVE UPDATES Stonesifer noted that Sen. Paradee typically shares legislative updates. He added that legislatures are on break right now but are working on reviewing the Governor’s proposed budget with the Joint Finance Committee. OTHER BUSINESS N/A BOARD MEMBER UPDATES Councilwoman Arndt shared that she is working with the Community Unit of Bayhealth, Carrie Hart and Highmark, to provide free dental care at the Dover Public Library on April 30. Board Meeting 2/28/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 6

Board Meeting 2/28/24 City of Dover Conference Room Hugg shared that the former Post Office is exploring environmental issues and is working with DNREC to determine if the site is a brownfield, since the location was a former dump, although the exact location of the former dump is not confirmed. Councilman Neil shared that he attended a meeting with Councilwoman Arndt to pursue development of the St. Jones Riverwalk. He added that Kerri Evelyn Harris coordinated with a new organization to continue development, with a public engagement meeting taking place last Saturday at the Library. He noted that the area would be recreational to draw people but will not necessarily be commercial/for businesses, although some businesses may be appropriate, such as a florist. He added that the city received a presentation about conduit bonds from an attorney, noting that they have a right to do it, but have not yet developed a process to make the conduit bonds available. Councilwoman Arndt noted that 501c3 organizations are eligible to receive conduit bonds. Canasa shared that the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Bar Crawl will take place March 16, providing an opportunity to have fun in downtown. She added that transportation will be provided, with 8 participating locations, and promotional materials going out for the next event. Canasa added that Agape Body Piercings is applying for APP (national accreditation for piercings), which is a national portal to direct clients to piercing studios. She added that requests from Delaware would be directed to Philadelphia or Baltimore, so their accreditation will recruit clients to Dover, and will additionally attract customers to local restaurants and stores as well during their visits. Van Gorp added that Bayhealth Mobile Van has had challenges in finding drivers for the Highmark health resource van. He added that he is working alongside Kerri Evelyn Harri and Carrie Hart to locate neighborhoods that would benefit from the healthcare outreach. Downing shared that the Schwartz Center is now under her umbrella of responsibility, and she is working towards renovations and ways to activate the arts downtown. She added that a plan to do creative projects will be developed, starting with community engagement. Canasa thanked Downing for her efforts, noting the importance of the arts in revitalizing and sustaining a downtown. Councilwoman Arndt suggested that the Schwartz maintains a relationship with the Children’s Theater, as performing in a theater is important and their shows are successful. Downing agreed and shared the Children’s Theater is hosting an event in April in the Schwartz. Stonesifer noted that parking was a challenge in Board Meeting 2/28/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 7

Board Meeting 2/28/24 City of Dover Conference Room programming the Schwartz during the day in the past, but that the Courthouse and DDP parking centers will help address those concerns in the future. Vendetti shared that CDCC is in the middle of their event season with the Legislative Luncheon on Thursday, March 21st at Bally’s, anticipating 250 people in attendance. She added that in April the 55+ Expo will also take place at Bally’s. Parkowski shared that another medical company is coming to 1418 S. State St. in Dover, and that they are new to the area. She added that another business working with hydrogen received funding recently. She added that Mountain and a site owned by Petrosky received site readiness funding as well. Parkowski noted that the city is running out of land, and discussions will be made to determine how to best move forward. Hugg noted that several key players are now in Dover, providing opportunities to residents. Bradley shared that NASCAR would take place at the end of April and Dover Days in May. He added that an inaugural car show will take place as well, expecting thousands of people to be in attendance. Legans shared that business is great at Rail Haus, noting that it is the “slow” season for beer gardens, but that he has had great success. Hugg shared that public EV chargers will be available in the parking lot behind the library by the middle of next month. PUBLIC COMMENT Stonesifer shared that he saw a challenge from a downtown business owner to report on what successes exist in Dover. He noted that positive messaging is impactful towards public perception and support of downtown Dover. ADJOURNMENT Councilman Neil motioned to adjourn the meeting. Canasa seconded the motion. Unanimous approval. Next Meeting Wed. March 27, 2024, at 7:30 a.m. City of Dover Conference Room Board Meeting 2/28/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 8