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COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE The Council Committee of the Whole met on April 08, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. with Council President Anderson presiding. Members of Council present were Mr. Boggerty, Mr. Neil, Dr. Pillsbury, and Mr. Rocha. Ms. Arndt, Mr. Lewis, and Dr. Sudler were absent. Mayor Christiansen was also absent. Civilian members present for their Committee meetings were Mr. Tholstrup, and Mr. Lewis (Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement), and Mr. Garfinkel (via WebEx), and Mr. Shevock (Legislative, Finance, and Administration). ADOPTION OF AGENDA Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Boggerty, and unanimously carried. Council Reports – March 2025 First District Dr. Pillsbury reported that she attended the Dover Police Department's 100th Anniversary celebration. Mr. Rocha reported that he attended the Dover Police Department's 100th Anniversary celebration and the Delaware League of Local Governments Dinner. Second District Mr. Lewis was absent; no report was given. Third District Mr. Neil reported that he attended the Kent County Tourism and Downtown Dover Partnership meetings. He attended Delaware State University’s Center for Urban Revitalization and Entrepreneurship (CURE) event. Mr. Neil explained that the CURE is a marvelous setup that has two locations. The older location is across from City Hall, and the new location is a place where an entrepreneur can invite a client for an hour, a day, or a week and have space to temporarily set up. Mr. Neil also reported attending the Wild Meadows Homeowners Association meeting, the Delaware League of Local Government’s Dinner, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) candidates' event at the library. He reported addressing constituent requests, including sending a letter to Attorney General Jennings requesting an update on an investigator's report that was submitted on a house that had been sold to a disabled mother of two. He also requested help from Senator Paradee and representatives to contact DelDOT for the need to resurface Persimmon Park Lane, which is at risk of developing potholes if it is not addressed. Ms. Arndt was absent; no report was given. Fourth District Dr. Sudler was absent; no report was given.

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 08, 2025 PAGE 2 At-Large Mr. Boggerty reported that he attended the City of Dover Police Academy Graduation. He reported planning with local leaders a youth bowling and mentorship night. He also attended the League of Local Governments Dinner and a meeting with the NAACP president at Dover Federal Credit Union to help get members of the NAACP a partnership with Dover Federal Credit Union to help strengthen their economic stability. He also reported coordinating a meeting between the NAACP president and Todd Stonesifer of the Downtown Dover Partnership to address the economic and social issues downtown. Council President Anderson Council President Anderson reported that he has addressed concerns from several constituents and expressed appreciation for the city staff's responsiveness to community issues such as streetlights, sidewalks, and potholes. He announced that a new system would start in November, which has been tested in the past few months, and he believes it will be effective. He also mentioned there are grant resources available through the National League of Cities (NLC). They offer different stages, starting with the grant finder available at grantfinder.com. He emphasized that this is a free resource provided through the National League of Cities (NLC). PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee met with Council President Anderson presiding in the absence of the chair. Adoption of Agenda Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Rocha, and unanimously carried. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Proposed Grant Recommendations for the Fiscal Year 2025 Action Plan and Draft 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan (Tracey Harvey, CDBG Program Manager) Ms. Tracey Harvey, CDBG Program Manager, reviewed the background and analysis regarding the Proposed Grant Recommendations for the Fiscal Year 2025 Action Plan and Draft 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan. Staff recommended approval of the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan and the Fiscal Year 2025 Action Plan, contingent upon an allocation received from HUD and the continuation of the Community Development Block Grant. Responding to Mr. Rocha, Ms. Harvey stated that council could not reallocate the funds and could only vote on the recommendations presented to them. She noted that the CDBG Program funds come from an annual entitlement grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Once the allocation was received, recommendations were made and submitted to council for approval. Responding to Mr. Rocha, Ms. Harvey clarified that the funds were restricted primarily for housing and the homeless. While the money can also be used for other projects, such as program

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 08, 2025 PAGE 3 administration and homeownership assistance, options are limited due to the small amount of funding. She also noted that there was currently no allocation for economic development. Ms. Harvey mentioned that a Request for Proposal (RFP) did go out, so the funding was provided by individuals who submitted applications. If individuals did not apply, then they could not fund something that was with it. It was based on what was submitted. Responding to Mr. Anderson, Ms. Harvey stated that a Request for Proposal (RFP) went out in January and that there was a 30-day period for individuals to submit their applications. Once submitted, they would set up an advisory committee to make recommendations based on what was submitted. She noted that the information was available on the City of Dover’s website, and it was also accessible on the Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) website. It was heavily advertised. Responding to Mr. Anderson, Ms. Harvey clarified that this process occurred annually, with a reset every five years. She explained that since they are currently in the fifth year, she was requesting approval now in order to begin fresh for the next five years. Mr. Neil moved to recommend approval of the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan and the Fiscal Year 2025 Action Plan contingent upon an allocation received from HUD and the continuation of the Community Development Block Grant, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Dr. Pillsbury. Mr. Anderson expressed the need for improved communication in regard to how individuals can access housing repairs and emergency housing services. He noted that some residents had contacted the city but were unable to get the necessary information, as city employees did not know how to assist them. He urged a collective commitment to making the information publicly accessible, so that residents facing the risk of losing their homes, dealing with code violations, or struggling financially, could receive the help intended for them. This would be pertaining to retirees or those with low income. Responding to Mr. Anderson, Ms. Harvey stated that two open houses had been advertised for the housing repair program, with another announcement included in the city’s newsletter for April 17, 2025. She also mentioned that Milford Housing has an advertisement on their website and operates an office in the downtown area, which is open to the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Mr. Neil moved to recommend approval of the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan and the Fiscal Year 2025 Action Plan contingent upon an allocation received from HUD and the continuation of the Community Development Block Grant, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Dr. Pillsbury and unanimously carried by a roll call vote (Arndt, Sudler, Lewis absent). Update – City of Dover ARPA Grant Sub-Recipient Funding (Tracey Harvey, CDBG Program Manager) Ms. Tracey Harvey, CDBG Program Manager, provided members of the committee a brief update on the City of Dover ARPA Grant Sub-Recipient Funding.

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 08, 2025 PAGE 4 Staff recommended approval of the proposed transfer of funds. Mr. Neil moved to recommend approval of the proposed transfer of funds, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Mr. Rocha and unanimously carried. Mr. Anderson moved for adjournment of the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee meeting, hearing no objection the meeting adjourned at 6:23 p.m. LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee met with Chairman Rocha presiding. Adoption of Agenda Mr. Boggerty requested that Item #4 – Proposed Ordinance #2025-04 – Amending Chapter 70 – Miscellaneous Provisions, Section 70-7. – Registered Sexual Offenders be removed from the agenda. Mr. Shevock moved for adoption of the agenda as amended, seconded by Mr. Neil, and unanimously carried. Proposed Ordinance #2025-05 – Amending Chapter 98, Sec. 98-5 -Duty of Tenant or Owners to Maintain Sidewalks and Landscaped Areas Within the Street Right-of-Way (Eddie Kopp, Chief Code Enforcement Officer, and Sharon Duca, Assistant City Manager) Mr. Eddie Kopp, Chief Code Enforcement Officer, reviewed the background and analysis regarding Proposed Ordinance #2025-05. Staff recommended that the committee approve Proposed Ordinance #2025-05 with either Option A or Option B identified and forward it to council for approval. Responding to Mr. Kopp, Mr. Boggerty commended him and his staff, acknowledging the challenges they faced, particularly in handling the aftermath of the January snowstorm. He praised their willingness to take feedback, reassess the issues, and return with solutions. He highlighted their efforts that provided a solid foundation not only for the current council members but also for future ones to be effectively implemented and enforced. Mr. Anderson moved to recommend that the committee approve Proposed Ordinance #2025-05 with Option A, which includes a warning, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Mr. Boggerty. Responding to Mr. Shevock, Mr. Kopp clarified that even though property owners do not own the sidewalk, they can be held responsible for the sidewalk. He noted that the property owners are responsible up to the curb. Responding to Mr. Shevock, Mr. Kopp stated that after reviewing the zoning ordinance, building code, and residential code, all legal responsibilities extend up to the curb. He explained that those regulations are part of the International Code Council (ICC) codes, which the city has adopted.

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 08, 2025 PAGE 5 According to his research, when the codes refer to “property and premises,” they include the entire property, including sidewalks. He confirmed that the International Code Council (ICC) codes are legally vetted, which is why the city had adopted them, and he praised their quality. Mr. Kopp also noted that he specifically looked for any indication that individuals would not be responsible for certain areas but found no such exception in the International Code Council (ICC) codes. Responding to Mr. Shevock, Mr. Kopp clarified that property owners are only responsible for sidewalks if they exist on their property. If there are no sidewalks, there is nothing to maintain or shovel. He specified that the responsibility applies to public sidewalks along the property’s edge, not personal walkways leading to the door. He emphasized that a sidewalk must be present for the ordinance to be enforceable. He noted that no sidewalk means no violation, and that there has to be a sidewalk to enforce the code. Mr. Neil moved to recommend that the committee approve Proposed Ordinance #2025-05 with Option A, which includes a warning, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Mr. Boggerty and unanimously carried. Proposed Ordinance #2025-06 – Amending Chapter 1 – General Provisions by Adding Sec. 1-18. – Code Board of Appeals (Eddie Kopp, Chief Code Enforcement Officer, and Sharon Duca, Assistant City Manager) Mr. Eddie Kopp, Chief Code Enforcement Officer, reviewed the background and analysis regarding Proposed Ordinance #2025-06. Staff recommended that the committee approve Proposed Ordinance #2025-06 and forward it to council for approval. Responding to Mr. Kopp, Mr. Neil stated that the code enforcement officers have done a commendable job in looking out for the residents. When issues arise or are observed, the code enforcement officers respond with solutions. He praised the efforts of his staff as outstanding, even if those who received penalties may not agree with the outcomes. He expressed hope that there would be consensus in extending support or coverage to individuals who are not currently included. Mr. Neil moved to recommend that the committee approve Proposed Ordinance #2025-06, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Mr. Boggerty. Responding to Mr. Kopp, Mr. Anderson expressed that the proposed ordinance reflected his confidence in the quality of work done by both him and his staff, highlighting their unique willingness to invite oversight and transparency into the bureaucracy. While acknowledging that criticism was part of the job, he stressed that it should not be taken personally, as the work ultimately benefits everyone. He reiterated that the work that they do is essential to the city’s quality of life and thanked the team for increasing transparency throughout the process. He voiced his support for the proposed ordinance and mentioned that the building codes need to be updated, hoping that it would happen next year. He also suggested removing references to the International Code Council (ICC) Board of Appeals and replacing them with references to the Dover code, in line with other items.

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 08, 2025 PAGE 6 Ms. Jinnell Barrett, 56 Greenway Square, Dover, questioned the responsibility of cleaning walkways within apartment complexes, specifically asking what would be considered a sidewalk. She noted that the complexes have walkways leading to parking lots, and due to snow and ice, it was unclear who was responsible for clearing them within the required 24 hours. She sought clarification on the roles of the occupants versus the code’s guidelines in such cases. Responding to Ms. Barrett, Mr. Kopp clarified that in the case of apartment complexes, the responsibility for cleaning walkways and sidewalks falls on the apartment complex, not the individual occupant. He noted that most apartment complexes have plans and landscaping services in place to handle snow and ice removal in the event of a storm. Responding to Mr. Kopp, Ms. Barrett asked what the occupants should do if the apartment complex was at fault for not cleaning the sidewalks, especially since the 24-hour timeframe for snow and ice removal seemed unfair to her. She expressed concern due to her disability, as the icy conditions outside make it slippery and difficult for her. Responding to Ms. Barrett, Mr. Kopp explained that if the apartment complex failed to clear the sidewalks, it would violate the ordinance. In such cases, code enforcement would address the issue with the apartment complex, not the individual occupant. He emphasized that one of the key purposes of the ordinance was to protect safety and ensure that everyone can navigate safely during snow and ice conditions. He also pointed out that apartment complexes are treated similarly to single-family dwellings in terms of responsibility for snow and ice removal. Mr. Neil moved to recommend that the committee approve Proposed Ordinance #2025-06, as recommended by staff, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Mr. Boggerty and unanimously carried. Fiscal Year 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and Findings (Patricia Marney, Controller/Treasurer) Ms. Patricia Marney, Controller/Treasurer, reviewed the Fiscal Year 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and the findings. This item was informational, and committee action was not required. Responding to Ms. Marney, Mr. Neil complimented her efforts, acknowledging that it was a massive task, but one that was carried out exceptionally well. He noted that the city has maintained its excellence in financial handling of its money and ratings, which he believes is essential. Especially as they face increasing challenges, such as inflation and potential tariffs, which could worsen the situation. He expressed his appreciation for her work and was glad that she and the team were able to come together to complete the task successfully. Responding to Ms. Marney, Mr. Boggerty echoed Mr. Neil's praises, emphasizing that she had faced a lot of criticism when stepping into her role but handled it with poise and has been calm. He commended her for addressing several challenges, providing numerous options, and keeping the process moving forward. He acknowledged that no one is perfect in their role, especially when tasked with cleaning up and moving things forward, while also balancing responsibilities for both

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 08, 2025 PAGE 7 2023 and 2024 and working with an understaffed team. He recognized the significant pressure that she faced and praised her for managing it so well. He also noted that her skill set is highly valuable and thanked her for sticking with them through the challenges. Responding to Ms. Marney, Mr. Shevock also echoed the praise from Mr. Neil and Mr. Boggerty, expressing his agreement with their comments. He added that the most important takeaway from the report was that, despite all the frustrations and challenges, the city was able to maintain its AA rating. Ms. Marney mentioned that she has been working closely with their bond council and rating agencies, keeping them well-informed regarding the status and the challenges the city was facing. She noted that the agencies were more than willing to collaborate and work with them throughout the process. Responding to Ms. Marney, Dr. Pillsbury commended her on an amazing job. Responding to Ms. Marney, Mr. Anderson explained that one of the reasons the report was delayed was due to the discovery of a significant error that needed to be corrected, which could have negatively impacted their outlook. He emphasized that the error was not their fault, and despite the staff’s busy schedule, if she and her team had not thoroughly reviewed the reports and identified the misclassification, it could have caused a serious problem. He stressed that accuracy is crucial. He also praised her for being the right person for the job, noting that not only did her experience make her skilled in accounting, but she also had the expertise in staff building and information technology (IT), something he would not have anticipated a year ago. Ms. Marney explained that anyone interested in reviewing the error could look at Table 15, which relates to the city’s bonds. She clarified that in 2023, they had to charge a PCA debit, and this was the first time in the city’s history that the Fiscal Year 2023 included such a charge. There were no clear instructions for the financial reporting staff on how to record this particular item on the table, which the bond raters look at. Had the charge not been properly included, the city’s financial position would have been misstated by nearly $16.5 million, potentially impacting its compliance with financial policies. Responding to Ms. Marney, Mr. Rocha expressed his appreciation, stating that they are fortunate to have someone like her in such an important position. He commended her for her work. Dover Strong Fund (Council President Anderson) Council President Anderson reviewed the background and analysis regarding the proposed Dover Strong Fund. It was recommended to refer the Dover Strong Fund to staff to develop the appropriate policy criteria and incorporate into the budget proposal from the utility funds, not to exceed $75,000. Responding to Mr. Boggerty, Mr. Anderson stated that, while he does not believe that it was specifically outlined, he noted that staff are expected to develop the appropriate policy criteria, and this aspect was intended to be part of that plan.

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 08, 2025 PAGE 8 Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Anderson stated that he is aware of a nonprofit previously called the Dover Strong Fund. He acknowledged that the name could be changed when they returned in 30 days and thanked him for pointing it out, as he believed the organization was no longer active. Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mr. Rocha stated that they primarily work with Parks and Recreation to write grants, typically for projects such as Schutte Park. Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Anderson stated that they can change the name to Dover Strong Utility Fund or choose another name if needed. Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Anderson stated that this would fall under the responsibility of the city manager, who would assign it to the appropriate staff. He noted that utilities, roads, streets, and related matters remain under the city manager’s purview. Mr. Olawale Maiyegun, 421 Northdown Drive, expressed concern in regards to using money from the electric fund for the proposed Dover Strong Fund project. He questioned why any amount, whether it was $75,000 or more, should come from the electric fund. He expressed concern that past decisions have had unintended consequences, such as increased taxes, rates, and electricity. He emphasized that past decisions had unintended consequences and asked whether the impact on taxpayers and tariffs had been evaluated. Mr. Maiyegun urged that the proposal be set aside, especially given the economic challenges many are facing. He specifically called on Dr. Pillsbury, whom he described as a strong advocate for children and lower-income families, to oppose the recommendation, stating that it was a bad decision that could not be justified. Responding to Mr. Maiyegun, Mr. Anderson explained that the $1.5 million in question was specifically designated for piping and street repairs. Legally, it could only be used for that purpose, since redirecting it elsewhere would be considered fraud. He acknowledged concerns regarding the electric and utility funds but emphasized that similar investments in major businesses, such as Kraft and Edgewell, had significant returns. This has helped retain and expand those companies and preserved or created hundreds of jobs. He stressed that small businesses are just as important as large businesses. He emphasized that they cannot revitalize downtown and destroy the individuals who were supposed to be helping and revitalizing it. Mr. Anderson explained that the cost limit exists for a reason and emphasized that the amount in question was a small amount out of $200 million. Which roughly $150 million comes from utility funds. He noted the $75,000 as a rounding error, highlighting that the long-term benefits of preventing business closures and maintaining active storefronts are substantial. Mr. Anderson emphasized that showing support for small businesses was essential in attracting and retaining commerce in Dover. He highlighted the city’s progress over the past seven years, reducing unemployment from 9.9% to 3.5%, which is now below the national average, due to deliberate and proactive economic strategies. He suggested that funding for this project should be addressed during the budget process and could potentially come from utility funds, an economic development fund from property sales, or a mix of both. He cautioned against micromanaging staff, urging that they be allowed to present their best professional recommendations. Mr. Anderson concluded by noting that this proposal has been under discussion with the business community and staff since January. What is being presented now is not the final decision but an

COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING APRIL 08, 2025 PAGE 9 important step forward in a longer process involving ongoing collaboration with stakeholders, staff, and council before a final vote. Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mr. Maiyegun expressed doubt in regards to the process. He stated that in his view, it was an exercise in futility because it seemed that the decision had already been made. He suggested that the council president appeared to be working out the details, but regardless of the funding source, whether from the utility fund, economic development fund, or property sales, he believed it would ultimately be a waste of resources. He questioned the effectiveness of providing payment relief on electricity bills as a strategy to retain businesses, asserting that such measures would not make a meaningful difference. Mr. Maiyegun highlighted the struggles of low-income residents in the district, burdened by rising taxes and fees, and asked whether any of the proposed funds would be directed toward helping those individuals rather than only businesses. He urged council to be more people-oriented, pointing out that many residents are living in debt in those affected areas. They would also be impacted by road construction near their homes or businesses. He questioned whether those individuals would receive any financial consideration, noting that construction could disrupt customer and client access, further affecting already vulnerable communities. Mr. Anderson moved to accept the recommended action and refer to staff to develop the policy criteria and incorporate into the budget proposal, not to exceed $75,000, with a name change, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried. Mr. Neil stated that the funding in question was not guaranteed income that they were expecting to receive, and its use would not represent a full loss. Instead, he viewed it as an investment that could act as a catalyst for business development. He emphasized that the proposal was not finalized and that further consideration was needed regarding how it would be implemented. Mr. Neil expressed his belief that the initiative was worthwhile, which was why he chose to second the motion. Mr. Rocha moved for adjournment of the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee meeting, hearing no objection, the meeting adjourned at 7:18 p.m. Mr. Anderson moved for adjournment of the Council Committee of the Whole meeting, hearing no objection, the meeting adjourned at 7:19 p.m. David L. Anderson Council President