Dover public meetings in 2023

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Development Advisory Committee will review two rezoning applications. The first involves converting 5.04 acres at 1617 Forrest Avenue from residential to limited commercial use. The second involves converting the 1.27-acre Old Post Office site at 55 Loockerman Plaza from institutional/office to central commercial use. The committee will provide recommendations for these changes, which are subject to City Council approval.

• Rezoning 5.04 acres at 1617 Forrest Avenue from R-10 to C-1A (Ordinance #2023-12)
• Rezoning 1.27 acres at 55 Loockerman Plaza (Old Post Office) from IO to C-2 (Ordinance #2023-13)

Council Committee of the Whole

The City of Dover has announced that no Council Committee of the Whole meeting will be held on December 26, 2023. The agenda contains no items for decision or discussion. The next scheduled meeting for this committee is January 9, 2024.

City Council Meetings

This agenda announces that the regular City Council meeting scheduled for December 25, 2023, is cancelled. The next regular meeting will be held on January 8, 2024. No business items are listed for this date.

• Meeting cancelled for December 25, 2023
• Next meeting scheduled for January 8, 2024

Home Events

The Dover Human Relations Commission will hold a procedural meeting to elect a new chairman. The agenda contains no specific policy proposals, contracts, or ordinances, consisting only of introductions, the election, general discussion, and adjournment.

• Election of Commission Chairman

The Dover Human Relations Commission met on December 19, 2023, and unanimously elected Allan Gaddis as Commission Chair. The meeting was largely procedural and discussion-focused, with no substantive policy decisions made. Members discussed potential reactivation of an outreach ad hoc committee, community meeting locations, and budget considerations, but no formal actions were taken on these topics.

• Adopted agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Elected Allan Gaddis as Commission Chair (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:13 p.m. (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two major housing developments: a new 48-unit apartment complex on Walker Road and a revised plan for the Stonebrook East neighborhood. The commission will also vote on a one-year extension for a Royal Farms convenience store site plan and recognize long-serving member Robert D. Hartman.

• Public hearing for S-23-22 Walker Road Apartments: 48 units in two three-story buildings on a 6.83-acre site on Walker Road west of Independence Boulevard.
• Public hearing for SB-23-03 Stonebrook East: Revised plan increases townhouses from 87 to 103 and decreases garden apartments from 168 to 138 at McKee Road and W. Denneys Road.
• Request for one-year extension of approval for C-21-08 Royal Farms at 1205 McKee Road, including a 5,154 SF retail store and car wash.
• Resolution recognizing the service of Mr. Robert D. Hartman on the Planning Commission.

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will review and potentially approve several items, including the prioritization of state capital transportation projects, a recreation area plan, a dam inspection report, a subdivision waiver, a contract award, and budget discussions. Public comments are welcome on any agenda item.

• Prioritization of City of Dover State Capital Transportation Program (CTP) projects
• Review of Active Recreation Area Plan for Walker Road Apartments at Guinn Property (6.83 acres, north side of Walker Road)
• Silver Lake Dam annual inspection report acceptance
• Subdivision waiver for Windward Ridge Apartments (two connections to public street requirement)
• Award contract to Century Engineering, LLC for Water Street Flooding Improvements design ($115,000)

The Council Committee of the Whole met on December 12, 2023, and recommended approval of several items. The committee recommended approval of the Planning Commission's recommendation for a subdivision waiver allowing one connection to a public street for the Windward Ridge Apartments, with Councilman Lewis voting no. The committee also recommended approval of the active recreation area plan for Walker Road Apartments, the Silver Lake Dam inspection report, the 2024 transportation priorities, and a $115,000 contract for Water Street flooding improvements design. The committee referred a request for a cost-of-living adjustment for civilian pensioners to staff for a recommendation.

• Recommended approval of Windward Ridge Apartments subdivision waiver (6-1, Lewis no)
• Recommended approval of Walker Road Apartments active recreation area plan (unanimous)
• Recommended acceptance of Silver Lake Dam 2023 Safety Inspection Report (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of 2024 transportation priorities (unanimous)
• Recommended awarding $115,000 contract to Century Engineering for Water Street flooding design (unanimous)
• Referred civilian pension COLA request to staff for recommendation (unanimous)
• Recommended authorizing staff to include Sanitation Enterprise Fund in FY25 budget (unanimous, Lewis abstaining)

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee has cancelled its meeting scheduled for December 12, 2023. No specific agenda items were discussed or decided because the meeting did not take place. The next scheduled meeting is on January 9, 2024.

• Meeting cancelled
• Next meeting scheduled for January 9, 2024

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will hold its regular meeting on December 11, 2023, with a consent agenda covering routine items and separate votes on two construction contracts and a memorandum of understanding. The council will also conduct first readings of two rezoning ordinances, one for a property on Forrest Avenue and one for the old Post Office site, with public hearings scheduled for early 2024.

• Rezoning of 1617 Forrest Avenue (5.04 acres) from R-10 to C-1A
• Rezoning of 55 Loockerman Plaza (old Post Office, 1.27 acres) from IO to C-2
• Award Garrison Oak Substation Site Work to AUI, Inc.
• Award Woodcrest Boring to Bay Line Construction, LLC
• Approve MOU between City of Dover and Robbins Hose Company No. 1

The Dover City Council approved a grant application for solar-powered speed feedback signs in Clearview Meadows, awarded two electric infrastructure contracts, approved an MOU with Robbins Hose Company No. 1, and moved to register the city seal as a service mark. Two rezoning requests were introduced and scheduled for public hearings. All votes were unanimous among the seven members present; Rocha and Sudler were absent.

• Approved grant application for pole-mounted solar-powered speeding signs in Clearview Meadows (unanimous)
• Awarded Garrison Oak Substation Site Work to AUI, Inc. (unanimous)
• Awarded Woodcrest Boring to Bay Line Construction (unanimous)
• Approved MOU between City of Dover and Robbins Hose Company No. 1 (unanimous)
• Approved annual review of investment policy (unanimous)
• Approved financial disclosure policy with amendments (unanimous)
• Moved to register city seal as service mark (unanimous)
• Set public hearings for rezoning at 1617 Forrest Ave and 55 Loockerman Plaza (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on December 11, 2023, primarily to discuss personnel matters in executive session. Following the session, the council unanimously authorized the City Manager to post the Finance Director position and to investigate external companies for financial reporting assistance. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recessed into executive session for personnel matters (unanimous)
• Authorized City Manager to post Finance Director position and investigate external financial reporting companies (unanimous)

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board is meeting to discuss routine updates including police reports, property updates, and legislative matters. Key items include redevelopment initiatives under the Downtown Dover Master Plan, such as a proposed MOU for 120 S. Governor's Ave., an EPA grant application, and a proposed public meeting for the St. Jones Riverwalk. The board will also hold an executive session on personnel.

• Property update: 136 W. Loockerman
• MOU for 120 S. Governor's Ave.
• EPA grant application
• Proposed St. Jones Riverwalk public meeting
• Executive session on personnel

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Dover Development Advisory Committee is reviewing two development applications at its November 29, 2023 meeting. The first is a revised subdivision plan for Stonebrook East that would increase townhouses from 87 to 103 and decrease garden apartments from 168 to 138. The second is a site development application for a 48-unit apartment complex on Walker Road. The committee provides technical review and comments; no final decisions are made at this stage.

• Revised Stonebrook East PND: increase townhouses from 87 to 103, decrease garden apartments from 168 to 138
• Stonebrook East requests alternative design standards: 20-ft minimum lot width, 4-story garden apartments, 48-ft building height
• Walker Road Apartments: two 3-story buildings, 24 units each, total 48 units, plus clubhouse and recreation areas
• Walker Road site is 6.83 acres, zoned RM-2, owned by Arthur Guinn Estate
• Public participation via phone or WebEx; comments to Planning Office

Library Commission

The Dover Public Library Advisory Commission met on November 28, 2023, to review minutes from September 19, 2023. The agenda focused on old business, including statistics, staffing status, library security, and reports from the Council on Libraries, Friends of Dover Library, Dover Library Foundation, and Kent County Levy Court regarding Library Tax Districts. No new business was scheduled for this meeting.

• Review of Kent County Levy Court report on Library Tax Districts
• Discussion of library security status
• Review of staffing status
• Reports from Friends of Dover Library and Dover Library Foundation

City Council Meetings

The City Council has cancelled its regular meeting scheduled for November 27, 2023. No decisions or discussions will take place at this session. The next regular meeting is scheduled for December 11, 2023.

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will hold public hearings and reviews on several development applications, including a 300-unit apartment complex, a 165,000 SF cold storage warehouse, a 6,000 SF office with truck garage, and a church addition. They will also consider an extension request for the Windward Ridge project and receive updates on zoning code amendments and other activities.

• S-23-19 Windward Ridge Apartments: 300 units, 12 garage buildings, clubhouse with pool, on West Denneys Road; extension request and continued review
• C-23-02 Mt. Zion AME Church addition: 1,402 SF footprint at 101 N. Queen Street
• S-23-20 Cold Storage Warehouse: 165,000 SF at 451 Garrison Oak Drive, with waivers for curbing and parking
• S-23-21 BHD Operations Facility: 6,000 SF office and 4,000 SF truck garage at 250 Garrison Oak Drive
• Update on C-2 Code Amendments for Central Commercial Zone

The Dover Planning Commission approved the Windward Ridge Apartments site development application (S-23-19) for 300 units on West Denneys Road, including waivers for sidewalk elimination and a single street connection, by a 5-4 vote. The commission also unanimously approved a conditional use for the Mt. Zion AME Church building addition (7-0) and site plans for a cold storage warehouse (9-0) and a Blue Hen Disposal operations facility (8-0).

• Approved S-23-19 Windward Ridge Apartments, 300 units, with sidewalk and street connection waivers (5-4)
• Approved C-23-02 Mt. Zion AME Church building addition conditional use (7-0, 2 recused)
• Approved S-23-20 Cold Storage Warehouse at 451 Garrison Oak Drive with parking and curbing waivers (9-0)
• Approved S-23-21 BHD Operations Facility at 250 Garrison Oak Drive (8-0, 1 present)
• Approved meeting agenda (9-0)
• Approved October 16, 2023 meeting minutes (9-0)

Historic District Commission

The Dover Historic District Commission deferred action on a demolition/renovation permit for 153 S. Bradford Street, pending additional information from the City Code Enforcement Office and the applicant. The commission also elected Czerwinski as Chair and Richardson as Vice Chair for the next year. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports and updates on various projects.

• Deferred demolition permit HI-23-05 at 153 S. Bradford St. pending more info (4-0)
• Elected Czerwinski as Chair and Richardson as Vice Chair by acclamation
• Approved agenda as presented (4-0)
• Approved minutes of October 19, 2023 meeting (4-0)

Ethics Commission

The Dover Ethics Commission met on November 15, 2023, to review findings in an executive session. The agenda indicates the discussion involves documents excluded from public records, specifically those related to personal privacy. No specific public actions, ordinances, or dollar amounts were listed on the agenda.

• Executive session to review findings involving personal privacy documents
• Potential action resulting from the executive session

Municipal

The Silver Lake Commission is meeting to discuss several items, including a water system improvement project, pedestrian safety concerns at the State Street Bridge, updates on Silver Lake Park projects and maintenance, and planning for the Mayor's Regatta 2024. The meeting is open to the public in person and via web link.

• Water System Improvement Project
• State Street Bridge – Pedestrian Safety Concerns
• Update on Silver Lake Park Projects, Draw Down & Maintenance Updates
• Mayor's Regatta 2024

The Silver Lake Commission met on July 19, 2023, and discussed several topics but made no formal decisions. Police reported on park incidents and patrols, the Delaware Livable Lawns program was presented, and the Public Works Department was asked to address invasive species at the causeway. The commission also discussed lake drawdown dates, a request to develop park naming guidelines, and a potential HAWK light at Division Street.

• No formal decisions were made; all items were discussion only.
• Police to ensure park gates are locked and opened accordingly, and patrols will continue.
• Public Works Department to address invasive species at the causeway.
• Lake drawdown dates set for October 9-20, 2023.
• Commission to develop framework for park naming guidelines.
• Reach out to DelDOT regarding a HAWK light at Division Street.

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will hold a virtual and in-person meeting to discuss two main presentations. The first covers the redevelopment of the Old Dover Post Office by LGPI VA LLC. The second provides a status update on grant money and economic development projects from the Downtown Dover Partnership. The agenda also includes routine procedural items such as adopting minutes from May 9, 2023.

• Presentation by Michael Glick on the redevelopment of the Old Dover Post Office by LGPI VA LLC
• Status update by Diane Laird on Downtown Dover Partnership grant money and economic development projects
• Adoption of minutes from the May 9, 2023 meeting

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended authorizing staff to apply for a State of Delaware Office of Highway Safety grant for pole-mounted solar-powered speeding signs for the Clearview Meadows Subdivision, including any allowed modifications or increases for speed monitoring systems. The committee also recommended moving toward service marking the city seal, approved changes to the annual investment policy, and approved the Financial Disclosure Policy with suggested amendments. All recommendations were made unanimously and will go to the full council for final action.

• Recommended authorizing staff to apply for State of Delaware Office of Highway Safety grant for pole-mounted solar-powered speeding signs for Clearview Meadows Subdivision (unanimous)
• Recommended moving toward service marking the city seal (unanimous)
• Recommended approving changes to the annual investment policy (unanimous)
• Recommended approving the Financial Disclosure Policy with suggested amendments (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will hold a public hearing on an appeal of denied utilities at 34 New Street, and consider consent agenda items including a $1,148,888 contract for the Turnberry Pump Station Replacement, a $27,400 change order for Well #9, and a $149,814 contract for an electrical substation multiplexer upgrade. They will also discuss potential revisions to the C-2 zoning ordinance and vote on a final ordinance adding a residency requirement for the Ethics Commission.

• Public hearing: Appeal of denial of utilities at 34 New Street (Double JR, LLC, Jill Sussman)
• Award contract to Teal Construction for Turnberry Pump Station Replacement, $1,148,888
• Approve change order from AECOM for Well #9, $27,400
• Award contract to Avista Realtime for Electrical Substation Multiplexer Upgrade, $149,814
• Final reading of Ordinance #2023-11 adding residency requirement for Ethics Commission

The council held a public hearing on an appeal of denied utility services at 34 North New Street, where the Clean Hands Ordinance blocked a new tenant's electricity due to the landlord's outstanding debts. After discussion, the council voted unanimously to recess the hearing for one month to allow the parties to work out a payment arrangement. The council also approved several contracts and ordinances, including the McKee Generation Station demolition contract and a zoning ordinance revision.

• Recessed public hearing on 34 New St. utility appeal for one month (unanimous)
• Approved $1,148,888 contract to Teal Construction for Turnberry Pump Station Replacement (unanimous)
• Approved $149,814 contract to Avista Realtime for Electrical Substation Multiplexer Upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved $27,400 change order to AECOM for Well #9 (unanimous)
• Approved $19,500 change order to Gateway Construction for Fire Station 2 site improvements (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #2023-11 amending Ethics Commission composition and terms (unanimous)
• Approved McKee Generation Station abatement and demolition contract to Total Wrecking & Environmental (8-2)
• Approved appointments and Fire Line Officers for Robbins Hose Company (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council is holding a Town Hall Meeting in the City Hall Council Chambers on Thursday, November 9, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The notice explicitly states that this is not an official meeting of the Council, so no official action will be taken, although a quorum of members may be present.

• Town Hall Meeting scheduled for November 9, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Location is City Hall Council Chambers
• No official action will be taken as this is not a formal Council meeting

Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals

The Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals will hear three appeals: two property maintenance citations and one appeal of the Fire Marshal's decision. The board will decide whether to uphold or overturn these enforcement actions.

• Appeal of citation and fines at 406 Cold Spring Place (Mike Snodgrass)
• Appeal of citation and fines at 44 Girl Scout Lane (David & Mary Miller)
• Appeal of Fire Marshal's decision for 42 S. State Street (Lanzot Companies, LLC)

The board voted to remove a $1,000 citation for 406 Cold Spring Place but upheld an $800 fine, which must be paid within 14 business days or double. It denied an appeal for 44 Girl Scout Lane, upholding a $500 fine for placard removal. For 42 S. State Street, the board rejected a motion to allow three apartments and one business, then ordered the property returned to two apartments and two offices, with a path to four apartments if sprinklers and permits are obtained.

• Removed $1,000 citation for 406 Cold Spring Place, upheld $800 fine (unanimous)
• Denied appeal and upheld $500 fine for 44 Girl Scout Lane (unanimous)
• Rejected motion to allow 3 apartments and 1 business at 42 S. State St. (2-2)
• Ordered 42 S. State St. returned to 2 apartments and 2 offices, with option for 4 apartments if sprinklers and permits obtained (3-1)

Home Events

The City of Dover's pension and benefits boards will review quarterly performance reports for the General Employee, Police, and OPEB plans. The meeting includes a discussion of a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) request based on ad-hoc cost estimates from February 16, 2017. The board is expected to accept the quarterly reports and set a future meeting date.

• Discussion of COLA request using Nyhart ad-hoc cost estimates dated February 16, 2017
• Acceptance of quarterly performance reports for the General Employee Pension Plan
• Acceptance of quarterly performance reports for the Police Pension Plan
• Acceptance of quarterly performance reports for the OPEB Plan
• Review of the General Employee Pension Plan Quarterly Expenditures Report

The joint pension boards unanimously approved a motion requesting a 25.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for General Employee Pension Plan retirees, retroactive to July 1, 2023, and withdrew a previous request for up to 10%. The boards also accepted quarterly performance reviews for the General Employee and OPEB plans, and approved the Police Pension Plan review after a quorum was established. A future meeting was set for February 8, 2024.

• Approved motion requesting 25.5% COLA increase retroactive to July 1, 2023, and withdrew previous 10% COLA request (unanimous)
• Accepted Quarterly Performance Review for General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Quarterly Performance Review for OPEB Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Quarterly Performance Review for Police Pension Plan after quorum established (unanimous)
• Approved future meeting date of February 8, 2024 (unanimous)

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Dover Development Advisory Committee is reviewing three development applications on November 1, 2023. The agenda includes a site plan for a large cold storage warehouse, an operations facility for BHD, and a building addition for the Mt. Zion AME Church. The committee will provide technical review comments to the Planning Office.

• Review of a Site Development Plan for a 165,000 SF Cold Storage Warehouse at 451 Garrison Oak Drive
• Review of a Site Development Plan for a BHD Operations Facility at 250 Garrison Oak Drive, including a 4,800 SF office and 4,050 SF garage
• Review of a Conditional Use Site Plan for a 1,402 SF addition to the Mt. Zion AME Church at 101 North Queen Street

Ethics Commission

The Ethics Commission meeting originally scheduled for November 1, 2023, has been rescheduled for November 15, 2023. The agenda consists entirely of procedural boilerplate, including a call to order, adoption of the agenda, and a recess into executive session to review findings. No specific public actions, ordinances, or dollar amounts are listed on this agenda.

• Meeting date changed from November 1, 2023, to November 15, 2023
• Executive session scheduled to review findings under §10002(l)(1) regarding personal privacy

City Council Meetings

The Dover Police Athletic League (PAL) Committee is scheduled to meet on November 1, 2023, at 6:00 PM in the Dover Police Department staff conference room. The agenda consists entirely of procedural items, including program updates, old business, and strategic planning, with no specific ordinances, contracts, or budget figures listed. Public comments are permitted on any item.

• PAL Program Updates/New Business
• Old Business
• Strategic Planning
• Announcements

The Dover Police Athletic League (PAL) Board approved spending up to $7,500 from available funds for programs through winter 2023/2024, and unanimously supported expanding the board and exploring a Police Chief's Foundation. The board also directed staff on grant applications and CPR program logistics.

• Approved expenditure of up to $7,500 for winter 2023/2024 programs (unanimous)
• Approved reaching out to potential board member candidates (unanimous)
• Supported exploring a Police Chief's Foundation (discussed, no formal vote)
• Directed Cpl. Smith to contact Dr. Eugene Montano regarding CPR manikins
• Agreed to assist with $40,000 grant application before December 1 deadline
• Kevin Baird to handle IRS 990-N filing

City Council Meetings

This agenda is a notice, not a meeting. Dover City Council members are invited to attend the Schutte Park Dog Park ribbon cutting on October 28, 2023, from 10:00-11:00 a.m. A quorum may be present, but no official action will be taken.

• Schutte Park Dog Park ribbon cutting on October 28, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m.

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended awarding the Turnberry Pump Station Replacement contract to Teal Construction for $1,148,888, and approved a $149,814 contract for an electrical substation multiplexer upgrade. It also recommended staff draft zoning ordinance revisions for the C-2 Central Commercial Zone, including increased building heights and new uses. The McKee Generation Station demolition contract was recommended for award to Total Wrecking & Environmental, LLC by an 8-2 vote, with concerns raised about diversity and community reinvestment.

• Recommended awarding Turnberry Pump Station Replacement to Teal Construction for $1,148,888 (unanimous)
• Recommended awarding Electrical Substation Multiplexer Upgrade to Avista Realtime for $149,814 (unanimous)
• Recommended awarding McKee Generation Station abatement and demolition to Total Wrecking & Environmental, LLC (8-2, Shevock absent)
• Recommended staff draft C-2 zoning ordinance revisions per proposed concepts (unanimous)
• Recommended submitting Transportation Alternatives Program application to DelDOT for N. State Street improvements (unanimous)
• Approved Well #9 change order for AECOM, Inc. in amount of $27,400 (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Electric Service Handbook revisions (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council scheduled a special meeting for October 23, 2023, primarily to enter an executive session. The agenda indicates the council will discuss potential litigation, a topic that requires a closed session under Delaware law to protect the city's legal position. No specific public actions, votes, or dollar amounts are listed on the agenda, as the outcome of the executive session is not detailed in advance.

• Executive session scheduled to discuss potential litigation
• Meeting held in City Hall Council Chambers with virtual access via WebEx

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will hold a regular meeting with a public hearing on a zoning amendment for the Central Commercial Zone, final readings on ordinances regarding ethics commission residency and weed control, and a resolution to join the state pension plan. They will also consider consent agenda items including committee reports, a recreation plan for Windward Ridge Apartments, and appointments.

• Public hearing on Ordinance #2023-08 amending C-2 Central Commercial Zone zoning
• Resolution #2023-16 to enter contract with State Board of Pension Trustees for pension plan
• First reading of Ordinance #2023-11 adding residency requirement for Ethics Commission
• Final reading of Ordinance #2023-10 amending weed control chapter
• Authorization to apply for SAFER fire department staffing grant

The Dover City Council adopted Ordinance #2023-08, amending the C-2 Central Commercial Zone to permit indoor recreation and amusement establishments, following a unanimous vote and a public hearing with no speakers. The council also adopted Ordinance #2023-10, updating the city's vegetation code, and approved a resolution to apply for a SAFER grant for fire staffing. Several other items were approved via consent agenda, including appointments and reports.

• Adopted Ordinance #2023-08, adding indoor recreation and amusement to C-2 zone (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #2023-10, amending Chapter 114 Vegetation code (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No. 2023-17, awarding Gold Medals to four citizens (unanimous)
• Authorized application for SAFER Grant for five firefighter positions (unanimous)
• Approved appointments to Planning Commission and Silver Lake Commission (unanimous)
• Approved N. Bradford Street street, sidewalk, and tree plan bid specs (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No. 2023-16 to join State of Delaware Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance #2023-11 first reading, adding residency requirement for Ethics Commission (committee vote 5-2)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will review two permit referrals for properties in the Historic District Zone. The first involves a partial demolition at 153 S. Bradford Street, while the second concerns window signs at 32 W. Loockerman Street. The meeting also includes updates on the Downtown Dover Pathways Study and C-2 zoning code amendments.

• Review of Demolition Permit #23-1521 for partial demolition of the second floor at 153 S. Bradford Street.
• Review of Sign Permit #23-1462 for four window signs totaling 258.75 square feet at 32 W. Loockerman Street.
• Update on the Downtown Dover Pathways Study, including a public workshop scheduled for October 26, 2023.
• Update on the C-2 Code Amendments Project for potential revisions to the Central Commercial Zone zoning ordinance.

The Dover Historic District Commission approved two sign permits for 32 W. Loockerman Street, allowing barber shop signs on the lower window and Fears Promotion signs on the metal band between floors, with conditions. A demolition permit for 153 S. Bradford Street was deferred to the November 16 meeting at the applicant's request. The meeting also included reports on planning staff changes and upcoming public workshops.

• Approved barber shop window signs for Permit #23-1462 at 32 W. Loockerman St. (5-0)
• Approved Fears Promotion signs on metal banding, limited to band size, at 32 W. Loockerman St. (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Deferred demolition permit #23-1521 at 153 S. Bradford St. to Nov. 16, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved minutes of July 20, 2023 meeting (5-0)

DDP Economic Development and Restructuring Committee

The Economic Vitality Committee is meeting to discuss an update on the Master Plan and the formation of working groups to support it. The agenda includes public comments and other business, with an executive session possible at the chair's discretion.

• Master Plan update
• Working groups to support Master Plan
• Public comments

Board of Adjustment

The Dover Board of Adjustment unanimously approved two variances for Lot 8 of the Garrison Oak Business and Technology Center at 451 Garrison Oak Drive. The first allows a portion of the building to be up to 100 feet in height despite reduced setbacks, and the second increases maximum lot coverage from 65% to 71%. The board also elected Mr. Keller as Vice Chairman and agreed to omit video conferencing for public hearings.

• Approved variance V-23-05 to allow building height up to 100 feet with reduced setbacks (3-0)
• Approved variance V-23-05 to increase maximum lot coverage from 65% to 71% (3-0)
• Elected Mr. Keller as Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Approved agenda omitting video conference for public hearings (unanimous)
• Approved September 20, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission deferred the Windward Ridge Apartments site plan (300 units) until a Traffic Impact Study or other proof is provided, citing safety concerns on West Denneys Road. The commission also approved a one-year extension for the Dover Logistics Center warehouses, approved Delaware State University's new agriculture building, and recommended approval of a text amendment to allow indoor recreation in the C-2 zone.

• Deferred Windward Ridge Apartments site plan (300 units) pending Traffic Impact Study (7-0)
• Approved one-year extension for Dover Logistics Center warehouses at 30 Lafferty Lane (8-0)
• Approved DSU New Agriculture Building site plan at 1200 N. Dupont Highway (8-0)
• Recommended approval of C-2 text amendment to add indoor recreation use (7-0)

Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals

The Dover Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals heard an appeal from property owner Sam Chick regarding code violations at 115 W. Loockerman Street, Unit A. The board voted to defer action for 30 days to fix or replace the gas stove and six months to replace window screens, provided a reinspection is scheduled. It also voted to keep fines at $200 instead of doubling them. The meeting was otherwise procedural.

• Deferred action 30 days to fix/replace gas stove (unanimous, Lewis absent)
• Deferred action 6 months to replace window screens, pending reinspection (unanimous, Lewis absent)
• Kept fines at $200, not doubled (unanimous, Lewis absent)

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee has cancelled its scheduled meeting for October 10, 2023. No decisions or discussions will take place at this session. The next meeting is scheduled for November 14, 2023.

• Meeting cancelled
• Next meeting scheduled for November 14, 2023

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will review several items, including a resolution to join the state pension plan, a proposed ordinance adding a residency requirement for Ethics Commission members, and a plan for street and sidewalk improvements on N. Bradford Street. They will also discuss applying for a SAFER fire grant and changes to legal opinion procedures. The meeting is a committee session, so most items are recommendations for future action.

• Resolution No. 2023-16 to enter contract with State Board of Pension Trustees for participation in Delaware County and Municipal Pension Plan
• Proposed Ordinance #2023-11 adding residency requirement for Ethics Commission members
• Authorization to apply for SAFER Grant for fire department staffing
• N. Bradford Street street, sidewalk, and tree plan
• Review of Active Recreation Plan for Windward Ridge Apartments on West Denneys Road

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended approval of Ordinance #2023-11, adding a residency requirement for Ethics Commission members, with a 6-2 vote (Arndt and Sudler dissenting). The committee also recommended authorizing staff to proceed with bid specifications for the N. Bradford Street street, sidewalk, and tree plan, and to apply for the SAFER grant. A resolution to allow the city to join the State of Delaware Pension Plan was recommended for approval.

• Recommended approval of Ordinance #2023-11 adding residency requirement for Ethics Commission (6-2, Arndt and Sudler no)
• Recommended authorizing bid specs and resident info session for N. Bradford Street plan (unanimous)
• Recommended authorizing Fire Chief to apply for SAFER grant (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Resolution No. 2023-16 to join State Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Active Recreation Plan for Windward Ridge Apartments (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

This is a special City Council meeting with a single substantive purpose: to recess into executive session. The closed session will cover potential litigation and the potential sale of land. No public decisions are listed on the agenda, and any action resulting from the closed session would be taken after it.

• Executive session on potential litigation
• Executive session on potential sale of land
• Agenda revised to remove item #2 on personnel matters

The special meeting was largely procedural, with the council unanimously adopting the agenda and recessing into executive session to discuss potential litigation and a potential land sale. Following the session, the council unanimously approved a staff recommendation to continue negotiations based on a presented proposal. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recessed into executive session for legal and land sale discussions (unanimous)
• Approved staff recommendation to continue negotiations on land sale proposal (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will reconsider the demolition order for the property at 207 North West Street, which was previously voted on 6-2. The body will also approve budget amendments totaling $37,845,241 for Fiscal Year 2024 and authorize a natural gas supply agreement for the Garrison Oak Business Park. Additionally, the council will take a first reading on an ordinance amending weed control regulations.

• Reconsideration of dangerous building violations and demolition order for 207 North West Street
• Approval of Proposed Ordinance #2023-09 for FY2024 budget amendments totaling $37,845,241
• Authorization of Customer Advance Agreement for natural gas services at Garrison Oak Business Park
• First reading of Proposed Ordinance #2023-10 amending Chapter 114 (Vegetation/Weeds)
• Approval of FY23 Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant joint application with Smyrna Police and Kent County

The Dover City Council unanimously adopted the FY2023-24 budget ordinance (Ordinance #2023-09) totaling $59,418,600, along with a resolution to join the State of Delaware County and Municipal Police and Firefighters' Pension Plan. The council also approved a consent agenda that included a natural gas service agreement for Garrison Oak Business Park, a joint grant application with Smyrna and Kent County, and referred the disposal of fifteen excess properties back to staff to include nonprofit outreach. A first reading was held for a proposed ordinance amending the city's weed regulations, with final action scheduled for October 23, 2023.

• Adopted FY2023-24 budget ordinance totaling $59,418,600 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2023-15 to join State Police/Firefighter Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Approved natural gas service agreement for Garrison Oak Business Park (unanimous)
• Approved FY23 Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant application with Smyrna PD and Kent County (unanimous)
• Referred disposal of 15 excess properties back to staff to include nonprofit outreach (unanimous)
• Reconsidered and adopted staff recommendation for 207 North West Street with good faith repair/demolish by Nov 2 (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #2023-09 (budget) on final reading (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Clarence Cobaugh Wagner II to Board of Adjustment (unanimous)

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Development Advisory Committee will meet on October 4, 2023, to review and comment on three applications ahead of the Planning Commission meeting on October 16. The agenda includes a site plan for a new Delaware State University agriculture building, a site plan for a 300-unit apartment complex on West Denneys Road, and a zoning text amendment to allow indoor recreation in the C-2 zone. Public comment is not accepted at this meeting; it will be taken at the Planning Commission meeting.

• S-23-18: DSU New Agriculture Building, 10,402 sq ft, at 1200 N. Dupont Highway, zoned IO and SWPOZ
• S-23-19: Windward Ridge Apartments, 300 units in 13 buildings, plus garages, clubhouse, pool, on West Denneys Road (40.12 acres, RM-2, partial SWPOZ)
• Waiver requests for Windward Ridge: partial sidewalk elimination and two public street connections
• MI-23-03: Text amendment to add indoor recreation as permitted use in C-2 zone (Ordinance #2023-08)
• Public hearings set for Planning Commission Oct 16 and City Council Oct 23

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council is holding a special meeting to conduct public hearings on five properties declared violations of the Dangerous Building Ordinance. Staff recommends declaring the buildings dangerous, ordering demolition by November 2, 2023, and if owners fail to act, having the city demolish them and charge costs as liens or taxes.

• Public hearings for dangerous building violations at 51 Saulsbury Road, 207 North West Street, 411 West Reed Street, 674 Roberta Avenue, and 848 Forest Street
• Staff recommends ordering demolition by November 2, 2023
• If owners don't demolish within 10 days, city will demolish and charge costs as municipal liens

The Dover City Council held a special meeting to address four properties cited for violations of the Dangerous Building Ordinance. The council ordered the demolition of properties at 51 Saulsbury Road and 207 North West Street, with the latter passing despite two dissenting votes. For 411 West Reed Street, the council approved demolition but added a 30-day window for the owner to repair or demolish the building. For 674 Roberta Avenue, the council allowed a good-faith effort to repair by November 2, 2023, before any city action. The council also ordered the demolition of a structure at 848 Forest Street, allowing the owner to remove personal items first.

• Declared buildings at 51 Saulsbury Road dangerous and ordered demolition by Nov 2 (unanimous)
• Declared buildings at 207 North West Street dangerous and ordered demolition by Nov 2 (7-2, Sudler and Lewis dissenting)
• Declared building at 411 West Reed Street dangerous, ordering demolition with 30 days to repair or demolish (unanimous)
• Declared building at 674 Roberta Avenue dangerous, allowing good-faith repair effort by Nov 2 before city action (unanimous)
• Declared structure at 848 Forest Street dangerous and ordered demolition, allowing owner to remove items at own risk (unanimous)

Ethics Commission

The Dover Ethics Commission is meeting to review a complaint. The discussion will occur in executive session, citing privacy exemptions for personnel or medical files. Following the closed session, the commission may take action on the complaint. The agenda is otherwise procedural.

• Review of complaint in executive session
• Potential action on complaint after executive session

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board will hold its annual meeting to discuss several key items, including a potential developer for a redevelopment site, a loan refinance, and an initial discussion on whether to allow marijuana sales in Dover. The board will also receive updates on properties, the Downtown Dover Master Plan, and legislative matters.

• RFQ process to select developer for 120 S. Governor's Ave. redevelopment site
• Loan refinance for 120 S. Governors/22-24 W. Loockerman St.
• Initial discussion on Delaware House Bill 2 (marijuana sales in Dover)
• Memorandum of Agreement with Department of State (Community Reinvestment Fund)
• Site readiness on DDP-owned sites

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Development Advisory Committee is reviewing three applications: a new agriculture building for Delaware State University, a 300-unit apartment development on West Denneys Road, and a zoning text amendment. The committee will provide technical review comments to the Planning Office. A separate Applicant DAC meeting is scheduled for October 4, 2023.

• S-23-18: Site Development Plan for a new 10,402 SF one-story Agriculture Building at 1200 N. Dupont Hwy.
• S-23-19: Site Development Application for 300 apartment units, 12 garages, and a Club House with Pool on West Denneys Road.
• MI-23-03: Text Amendment to add indoor recreation and amusement establishments as a permitted use in the C-2 (Central Commercial) zone.

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will consider several items, including authorizing the City Manager to finalize a natural gas service agreement for Garrison Oak Business Park, approving the disposal of fifteen excess city properties, and approving a joint grant application with Smyrna Police and Kent County. They will also discuss Delaware House Bill 2 (Marijuana Control Act) but no action is required. The agenda was revised to remove a discussion of city seal uses and restrictions.

• Customer Advance Agreement for natural gas services at Garrison Oak Business Park
• Disposal of fifteen excess city properties
• FY23 Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant joint application with Smyrna Police and Kent County
• Discussion of Delaware House Bill 2 (Marijuana Control Act) — no action required
• Removed item: city seal uses and restrictions discussion

The Council Committee of the Whole met and took several actions. They recommended approval of a Customer Advance Agreement for natural gas services at Garrison Oak Business Park, and recommended approval of a joint grant application with Smyrna Police and Kent County. The disposal of fifteen excess properties was referred back to staff to include inviting nonprofits to express interest. The committee also discussed Delaware House Bill 2 on marijuana regulation, but no action was required.

• Recommended approval of Customer Advance Agreement for natural gas at Garrison Oak Business Park (unanimous)
• Referred disposal of 15 excess properties back to staff to include nonprofit interest (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of FY23 Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant application (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

This is a special City Council meeting with a single substantive item: recessing into executive session to discuss personnel matters under Delaware law. The agenda is otherwise procedural, covering adoption of the agenda, the executive session, potential action from it, and adjournment. No public decisions, contracts, or ordinances are listed.

• Executive session on personnel matters (29 Del. C. §10004(b)(9))
• Potential action resulting from executive session
• Virtual participation via WebEx available

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on September 26, 2023, and unanimously adopted the agenda before recessing into executive session to discuss personnel matters. After the session, Council voted to amend the City Code based on the City Solicitor's recommendation, with Mayor Christiansen and Human Resources Director Naomi Poole tasked to work with the Solicitor on the amendment. The motion passed with one dissenting vote from Mr. Lewis. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted meeting agenda unanimously
• Recessed into executive session for personnel matters (unanimous)
• Approved motion to amend City Code per City Solicitor's recommendation (carried, Mr. Lewis voting no)
• Directed Mayor Christiansen and HR Director Naomi Poole to work with City Solicitor on amendment

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council is holding a special meeting on September 25, 2023, primarily to recess into executive session to discuss personnel matters, as permitted by Delaware law. The agenda includes adoption of the agenda, the executive session, and potential action resulting from it. No other substantive items are listed.

• Executive session on personnel matters (29 Del. C. §10004(b)(9))
• Potential action resulting from executive session

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on September 25, 2023, and unanimously adopted the agenda. The council then recessed into executive session to discuss personnel matters, but no action was taken. The meeting adjourned without any substantive decisions.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recessed into executive session for personnel discussion (unanimous)
• Took no action following executive session

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will vote on a $37,845,241 budget amendment for Fiscal Year 2024 and approve the purchase of a replacement fire squad. The meeting includes a public hearing on the sale of excess property at 55 Loockerman Street Plaza and the approval of a $933,294 contract for street and alley maintenance. Council members will also appoint four new members to the Dover Human Relations Commission.

• Proposed Ordinance #2023-09: Approval of budget amendments totaling $37,845,241 for Fiscal Year 2024
• Public Hearing: Sale and Disposition of Excess Real Property at 55 Loockerman Street Plaza
• Contract Award: $933,294 to Grassbusters Landscaping Co., Inc. for FY 2023C Street and Alley Program
• Purchase Authorization: Replacement of Squad 2 for the Dover Fire Department
• Appointments: Four new members to the Dover Human Relations Commission (Paul Fleming, Joseph C. Simmons, Alan Gaddis, Wanda Mullen)

The Dover City Council adopted two ordinances: one updating truck routes and another amending compensation for appointed officials. It also approved a $933,294 street program contract, a $138,700 GIS upgrade, and a $108,100 actuarial services contract. The council reaffirmed the sale process for 55 Loockerman Street Plaza and authorized buyout negotiations for Garrison Energy Center lease.

• Adopted Ordinance #2023-06 updating truck routes (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #2023-07 amending compensation for appointed officials (6-2, Neil absent)
• Approved $933,294 street program contract to Grassbusters Landscaping (unanimous)
• Approved $138,700 GIS Utility Network Wastewater Upgrade to ESRI (unanimous)
• Approved $108,100 actuarial services contract to Bolton (unanimous)
• Reaffirmed authorization to convey 55 Loockerman Street Plaza (unanimous)
• Authorized buyout negotiations for Garrison Energy Center lease (unanimous, Neil absent)
• Approved $37,845,241 budget amendments for FY2024 (10-0, Neil absent)

Historic District Commission

The City of Dover Historic District Commission meeting scheduled for September 21, 2023, has been cancelled due to lack of agenda items. The next scheduled meeting will be held on October 19, 2023.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of agenda items
• Next meeting scheduled for October 19, 2023

Board of Adjustment

The Dover Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a variance request for a church property at 101 and 107 North Queen Street to increase building coverage from 20% to 56.89% for a proposed addition. The board will also dismiss an appeal (V-23-03) regarding a 385-unit apartment project because it lacks jurisdiction. The meeting includes approval of the July 19, 2023 minutes and routine administrative items.

• Variance request for 101 and 107 North Queen Street to increase building coverage from 20% to 56.89% for a church addition
• Dismissal of Appeal V-23-03 (College Road Apartments) due to lack of jurisdiction
• Approval of minutes from July 19, 2023 meeting
• Next meeting scheduled for October 18, 2023

The Dover Board of Adjustment approved a variance for Mount Zion AME Church at 101 and 107 North Queen Street, allowing building coverage to increase from 20% to 56.89% for a proposed addition. The vote was unanimous (4-0). The board also dismissed Appeal V-23-03 due to lack of jurisdiction and discussed the future of virtual hearings.

• Approved variance V-23-04 for Mount Zion AME Church to increase building coverage from 20% to 56.89% (4-0)
• Dismissed Appeal V-23-03 due to lack of jurisdiction (4-0)
• Approved minutes of July 19, 2023, with corrections (4-0)
• Discussed discontinuing virtual public hearings, with staff to review state law

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission voted unanimously to establish a subcommittee to develop red-line changes to its existing bylaws and create new rules of procedure, using the City of Newark's rules as a template. The commission also reappointed two design professionals to the Architectural Review Oversight Subcommittee. No development applications were considered.

• Approved agenda as submitted (8-0)
• Approved July 17, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Reappointed Dr. R.J. Chandler and Ms. Sarah Keifer to Architectural Review Oversight Subcommittee (8-0)
• Established subcommittee to revise bylaws and draft rules of procedure (8-0)

DDP Design Committee

The Dover Design Committee is meeting to discuss downtown building improvements, including a façade grant application and potential changes to grant guidelines and program funding. The agenda also includes updates on the Biggs, Art League, banner project, and crosswalk art pilot. This is a routine monthly meeting with no major policy decisions listed.

• Façade Grant Application review
• Façade Grant Guidelines/Program Funding Discussion
• New Banner Project Update
• Crosswalk Art Pilot Project Update
• Approval of August 2023 minutes

Economic Development Committee

The September 12, 2023 Economic Development Committee meeting has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for October 10, 2023. No items were discussed or decided.

• Meeting cancelled for September 12, 2023
• Next meeting scheduled for October 10, 2023

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will discuss and potentially approve several items, including a $37.8 million budget amendment ordinance, a $933,294 street and alley contract, and a $138,700 wastewater GIS upgrade. Two items were removed from the agenda: a natural gas supply agreement and disposal of fifteen excess properties. Public comments are welcome.

• Proposed Ordinance #2023-09: budget amendments totaling $37,845,241 for FY2024
• Award $933,294 contract to Grassbusters Landscaping Co., Inc. for FY2023C Street and Alley Program (Bid #23-0020PW)
• Award $138,700 sole-source contract to ESRI for GIS Utility Network Wastewater Upgrade
• Proposed Ordinance #2023-10: amending Chapter 114 (Vegetation) regarding weeds
• Five-year actuarial services contract with Bolton for $108,100 (RFP#23-0017FN)

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended awarding the FY2023C Street and Alley Program contract to Grassbusters Landscaping Co., Inc. for $933,294, and approved several other items including a $138,700 GIS upgrade with ESRI, a Squad 2 fire truck purchase, a five-year actuary services contract with Bolton, and budget amendments totaling $37,845,241. The committee also recommended amending the weed ordinance to change the grass-cutting fee language to 'the city's contracted rate' and to provide a 60-day notice to constituents via electric bills. All recommendations are subject to final approval by the full council.

• Recommended awarding $933,294 street program contract to Grassbusters Landscaping (unanimous)
• Recommended $138,700 GIS wastewater upgrade contract to ESRI (unanimous)
• Recommended authorizing Squad 2 fire truck purchase (unanimous)
• Recommended five-year actuary services contract with Bolton for $108,100 (unanimous)
• Recommended budget amendments totaling $37,845,241 (10-0, Neil absent)
• Recommended weed ordinance amendment to use 'city's contracted rate' (unanimous)
• Recommended 60-day notice of weed ordinance via electric bill (carried, Arndt no)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will hold a regular meeting with several public hearings, consent agenda items, and first readings of ordinances. Key actions include a proposed truck route amendment, a zoning text amendment for indoor recreation in C-2 districts, and acceptance of a $488,802.32 grant for electric vehicle fleets. The council will also consider a public hearing on a property tax exemption denial and award contracts for wellhead redevelopment and HVAC upgrades.

• Public hearing on denial of senior/disabled citizen tax exemption for 27 Fieldstone Court
• Proposed Ordinance #2023-06 amending truck routes (Chapter 106, Section 106-17)
• Proposed Ordinance #2023-08 zoning amendment for indoor recreation in C-2 district
• Energize Delaware grant of $488,802.32 for electric vehicle fleets plus $11,197.68 rebate application
• Award of Weyandt Hall HVAC upgrade to Statewide Mechanical, Inc. and Engine 4 fire truck purchase

The Dover City Council approved several items, including amendments to truck routes, acceptance of a $488,802.32 grant for electric vehicle fleets, and the purchase of a replacement fire engine. They also denied a senior citizen tax reduction request, referred a zoning amendment for public hearing, and approved appointments and various contracts. The meeting included multiple proclamations and committee reports.

• Approved truck route code revisions (unanimous)
• Approved $488,802.32 Energize Delaware EV fleet grant and $11,197.68 DNREC charging station rebate (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Engine 4 replacement (unanimous)
• Denied Senior Citizen/Disabled Citizen Tax Reduction for 27 Fieldstone Court (unanimous)
• Referred zoning amendment for indoor recreation in C-2 district to Planning Commission and public hearing (unanimous)
• Approved 3-year wellhead redevelopment contract with A.C. Shultes of Delaware, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved $75 reimbursement for Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals members (unanimous)
• Approved Capital School District impact fee calculation change (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council convened a special meeting on September 11, 2023, primarily to enter an executive session. The agenda lists two specific topics for closed-door discussion: potential litigation and personnel matters. No public votes or specific decisions are detailed in the agenda text, only the intent to discuss these items in private.

• Executive session to discuss potential litigation
• Executive session to discuss personnel matters

The Special City Council Meeting on September 11, 2023, was largely procedural, including agenda adoption and a recess into Executive Session to discuss potential litigation and personnel matters. After the session, the council voted 9-0 to authorize the Planning and Inspections Department to hire an outside engineer for purposes discussed in the session. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recessed into Executive Session for legal and personnel matters (unanimous)
• Authorized Planning and Inspections Department to hire outside engineer (9-0)

City Council Meetings

This is a Town Hall Meeting notice for Dover City Council members, not a formal council meeting. A quorum of council may be present, but no official action will be taken; it is an informational gathering for the public.

• Town Hall Meeting in City Hall Council Chambers
• Scheduled for Wednesday, August 30, 2023, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
• No official action to be taken

Council Committee of the Whole

This agenda announces that the Council Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled for August 29, 2023, is cancelled. The next meeting will be held on September 12, 2023. No business items are listed for this date.

• Meeting cancelled for August 29, 2023
• Next meeting scheduled for September 12, 2023

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board is holding a special meeting via Zoom. The agenda includes an executive session on personnel matters and a public comment period, with no other substantive business listed. The next regular board meeting is scheduled for September 27.

• Executive session on personnel
• Public comment period
• Special meeting held via Zoom

City Council Meetings

This agenda announces that the regular City Council meeting scheduled for August 28, 2023, is cancelled. The next regular meeting will take place on September 11, 2023. No business items are listed for this date.

• No meeting held on August 28, 2023
• Next meeting scheduled for September 11, 2023

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on August 23, 2023, and voted unanimously to authorize the City Manager, city staff, and Mayor Christiansen to enter negotiations regarding the ambulance contract with Trinity Health. The council also allowed access to volunteer expertise as needed. The vote was 7-0, with two members absent.

• Authorized City Manager, staff, and Mayor to negotiate Trinity Health ambulance contract (7-0)

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission meeting scheduled for August 21, 2023, has been cancelled because there are no new applications for consideration. The next scheduled meeting will be held on September 18, 2023.

• Meeting cancelled due to no new applications
• Next meeting scheduled for September 18, 2023

Board of Adjustment

The Dover Board of Adjustment's regular meeting scheduled for August 16, 2023, has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for September 20, 2023, at 9:00 AM. This notice is purely procedural with no items for discussion or decision.

• Meeting cancellation notice for August 16, 2023
• Next meeting set for September 20, 2023 at 9:00 AM

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover City Council Committee of the Whole will discuss and potentially act on several items, including a proposed ordinance to amend truck routes, a recommendation to award a three-year wellhead redevelopment contract, and acceptance of a grant for electric vehicle fleets. The agenda also includes proposed ordinances on zoning and compensation, a resolution for asset management programs, and a recommendation to award an HVAC upgrade contract. One item, a structural safety complaint at 153 South Bradford Street, was removed from the agenda.

• Proposed Ordinance #2023-06 amending truck routes (Section 106-17)
• Recommendation to award 3-year Wellhead Redevelopment Program contract to A.C. Shultes of Delaware, Inc.
• Proposed Resolution #2023-12 and #2023-13 for Drinking Water and Wastewater Asset Management Program applications
• Proposed Ordinance #2023-08 amending Central Commercial Zone (C-2) zoning
• Energize Delaware Grant for Electric Vehicle Fleets ($488,802.32) and DNREC rebate application ($11,197.68)

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended several items for full council approval, including amendments to truck routes, acceptance of a $488,802.32 grant for electric vehicle fleets, and the purchase of a replacement fire engine. The committee also recommended a three-year contract for the Wellhead Redevelopment Program and approved resolutions for asset management program applications. No final decisions were made; all items are recommendations to the full council.

• Recommended adopting truck route ordinance changes to mirror the map (unanimous)
• Recommended 3-year Wellhead Redevelopment contract with A.C. Shultes of Delaware, Inc. (unanimous)
• Recommended adopting resolution for Drinking Water Asset Management application (unanimous)
• Recommended adopting resolution for Wastewater Asset Management application (unanimous)
• Recommended referring zoning text amendment for indoor recreation to first reading (unanimous)
• Recommended approving $75 reimbursement for code board appeals members (unanimous)
• Recommended accepting $488,802.32 EV fleet grant and $11,197.68 charging rebate (unanimous)
• Recommended awarding Weyandt Hall HVAC upgrade to Statewide Mechanical, Inc. (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will vote on a $264,994 change order for the Dover Little League site improvements and approve several water-related grant applications. The meeting also includes a discussion of the Verizon franchise renewal and the disposition of the former Dover Post Office. Item 2, a Board of Assessment Appeals exemption report, was removed from the agenda.

• Award $264,994 change order to Grassbusters Landscaping Co., Inc. for Little League Site Improvements
• Approve Verizon Franchise Renewal (Resolution No. 2023-11)
• Adopt resolution for Drinking Water Matching Planning Grant and sole source designation for Rezatec
• Approve grant applications for PFAS Treatment Feasibility Study and Carbon Column Replacement
• Declare former Dover Post Office as surplus and approve its disposition

The Dover City Council approved the Verizon franchise renewal, several water-related grant applications, a change order for Little League site improvements, and the disposition of the former Dover Post Office. They also approved the purchase of two sanitation vehicles and authorized the City Solicitor to prepare a new financial disclosure form. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Verizon Franchise Renewal (unanimous)
• Approved application for Drinking Water Matching Planning Grant (unanimous)
• Approved Consolidated Appropriations Act grant application for water quality improvements (unanimous)
• Approved grant application for carbon column replacement and PFAS treatment study (unanimous)
• Approved $264,994 change order to Grassbusters Landscaping for Little League site improvements (unanimous)
• Approved declaration of former Dover Post Office as surplus and disposition (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of two sanitation vehicles with up to 15% overage authorization (unanimous)
• Authorized City Solicitor to prepare a new financial disclosure form aligned with Ordinance #2017-14 (unanimous)

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board is holding a special meeting to review a Revolving Loan Fund application from Mr. Otis Brooks for Tastee's Chicken and Seafood in the amount of $5,000. The meeting includes public comment and adjournment, with no other substantive items on the agenda.

• Review of Revolving Loan Fund application for Tastee's Chicken and Seafood, $5,000
• Applicant: Mr. Otis Brooks
• Presentation by Lorenzo Merino, Director of Lending, True Access Capital
• Public comment period

Home Events

The Joint General Employee Pension Plan Board, Police Pension Plan Retirement Committee, and OPEB Board will meet virtually to review quarterly performance reports for the period ending June 30, 2023, and to elect chairs for the General Employee Pension Plan Board and OPEB Board. The agenda also includes adopting minutes, selecting a November meeting date, and reviewing quarterly expenditures.

• Quarterly performance reviews for General Employee Pension Plan, Police Pension Plan, and OPEB Plan (Milliman, Inc.)
• Election of chairs for General Employee Pension Plan Board and OPEB Board
• Quarterly expenditures report of the General Employee Pension Plan
• Selection of a November meeting date
• Selection of a date for General Employee Pension Plan Board executive session (recommended Aug 21-31)

The joint pension boards unanimously accepted quarterly performance reviews and current allocation scenarios for all three plans, elected new chairs for the General Employee and OPEB boards, and approved November 2, 2023, as the next meeting date. A vice chair for the General Employee Pension Plan Board was elected over one dissenting vote. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Accepted Q2 2023 performance review for General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Scenario A current allocations for General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Q2 2023 performance review for Police Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Scenario A current allocations for Police Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Q2 2023 performance review for OPEB Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Scenario A current allocations for OPEB Plan (unanimous)
• Elected Mr. Gedney as Chair of General Employee Pension Plan Board (unanimous)
• Elected Ms. Kober as Vice Chair of General Employee Pension Plan Board (carried, Mr. Anderson voted no)

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover City Council Committee of the Whole will vote on a Verizon cable franchise renewal and several water-related grant applications. The committee will also approve a $264,994 change order for landscaping work at the Dover Little League site and discuss the disposition of the former Dover Post Office property. Additionally, staff will present additional budget proposals for the upcoming fiscal year.

• Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-11 for the Verizon Cable Franchise Agreement renewal
• Approval of a $264,994 change order to Grassbusters Landscaping Co., Inc. for Dover Little League Site Improvements
• Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-09 for a Drinking Water Matching Planning Grant application
• Approval of grant applications for Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 Water Quality Improvements and PFAS Treatment Feasibility Study
• Declaration of surplus and disposition of the former Dover Post Office property

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended approval of the Verizon franchise renewal, a drinking water grant application, a water quality grant, a PFAS study grant, a change order for Little League site improvements, and the sale of the former post office. All recommendations were unanimous. The committee also discussed budget proposals for FY2025 but took no action.

• Recommended accepting Verizon Franchise Renewal with committee changes (unanimous)
• Recommended adopting resolution for Drinking Water Matching Planning Grant application (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Consolidated Appropriations Act 2023 grant application for water quality improvements (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of grant application for carbon column replacement and PFAS treatment feasibility study (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of $264,994 change order to Grassbusters Landscaping Co. for Little League site improvements (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of disposition of former Dover Post Office property (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The City Council will vote on a Homeland Security Grant Program reimbursement for video surveillance and fencing at water system and well sites. The body will also consider a leadership commitment to join a regional Safe Streets and Roads for All grant application and approve several commission appointments. Routine items include the adoption of previous minutes and monthly departmental reports.

• Approval of Homeland Security Grant Program reimbursement for water system and well sites security project
• Authorization of sole source designation for Advantech for security equipment
• Leadership commitment to participate in Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant application with Dover/Kent County MPO
• Resolution No. 2023-10 approving 2023 NFA PHI Capital Projects for Westminster Village
• Appointment of Ellen H. Richardson, Mary T. Mason, and Ann B. Horsey to the Historic District Commission

The Dover City Council approved several property tax exemptions recommended by the Board of Assessment Appeals for nonprofit organizations, including Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity, Capitol Baptist Church, Children and Families First DE Inc., and Elizabeth W. Murphy School Inc. The council also adopted Resolution No. 2023-10, authorizing TEFRA approval for up to $30.7 million in tax-exempt bonds for Presbyterian Senior Living's Westminster Village project. Additionally, the council approved appointments to the Historic District Commission, Public Advisory Commission, and Ethics Commission, and accepted monthly and quarterly reports.

• Approved tax exemptions for 3 Habitat for Humanity properties (4-0)
• Approved tax exemption for Capitol Baptist Church property at 1305 New Burton Rd (4-0)
• Approved tax exemption for Children and Families First DE Inc. property at 195 Willis Rd (4-0)
• Approved conditional 1-year tax exemption for Elizabeth W. Murphy School Inc. properties (4-0)
• Denied Senior Citizen Tax Reduction for Suzanne Cerro (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2023-10 for TEFRA approval of $30.7M bonds for Westminster Village
• Approved appointments to Historic District Commission, MPO Public Advisory Commission, and Ethics Commission
• Approved formation of Ad Hoc committee for public space naming policy

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will review architectural changes for the new Kent County Family Court and a sign permit for the First State Heritage Park. The meeting also includes the adoption of May 2023 minutes and reports on recent application activity. New member Ellen H. Richardson will be welcomed, and members Ann B. Horsey and Mary T. Mason will be reappointed.

• Review of Architectural Review Certification for six-foot metal fencing at the new Kent County Family Court site (415/445 S. Governors Avenue).
• Review of Sign Permit #23-987 for a 9-square-foot informational kiosk at 43 The Green (First State Heritage Park).
• Adoption of minutes from the May 18, 2023 meeting.
• Welcome of new member Ellen H. Richardson and reappointment of Ann B. Horsey and Mary T. Mason.

The Dover Historic District Commission approved a revised request for a 6-foot metal security fence at the new Kent County Family Courthouse site, with two members abstaining due to proximity. The commission also approved a sign permit for an informational kiosk at 43 The Green, conditioned on upgrading materials to black metal or painted wood. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved sign permit #23-987 for informational kiosk at 43 The Green, conditioned on using black metal or painted preserved wood (4-0)
• Approved HI-22-03 revision for 6-foot metal security fence at courthouse site (2-0, 2 abstentions)

Board of Adjustment

The Dover Board of Adjustment will hold a public meeting to consider one variance request: allowing chickens on a smaller lot than the zoning ordinance requires. The board will also adopt minutes from a prior meeting and honor a departing member. Public comment is accepted in person, by phone, or online.

• Variance V-23-02: reduce minimum lot area for keeping chickens from 10,890 SF to 10,018 SF at 59 Sherwood Court (R-8 zone)
• Adoption of meeting minutes from February 15, 2023
• Resolution honoring Col. Arthur G. Erickson's service to the Board

The Dover Board of Adjustment approved a variance (V-23-02) allowing the keeping of chickens on a property at 59 Sherwood Court, reducing the minimum lot area requirement from 10,890 to 10,018 square feet. The motion carried 3-1, with Mr. Keller voting against. The board also approved the agenda and the minutes from the February 15, 2023 meeting, and recognized the service of Colonel Ericson.

• Approved variance V-23-02 for keeping chickens at 59 Sherwood Court, reducing minimum lot area from 10,890 to 10,018 sq ft (3-1)
• Approved the agenda as amended (4-0)
• Approved the minutes of the February 15, 2023 meeting (4-0)
• Recognized Colonel Ericson's 19 years of service on the Board

Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals

The Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals will elect a chair and consider one substantive item. The sole case involves an appeal of a registration fee for a vacant building at 27 Spruance Road under the Property Maintenance Code. The meeting is primarily procedural aside from this single fee appeal.

• Election of Board Chair
• Appeal of registration fee for vacant building at 27 Spruance Road (Celina Brown)

The board denied Celina Brown's appeal of the vacant building registration fee for 27 Spruance Street, upholding the Building Inspector's decision to declare the property in its second year of vacancy and apply the $750 fee. The motion was unanimous. The board also re-elected David Anderson as Chair and approved the agenda.

• Denied appeal of vacant building registration fee for 27 Spruance Street, upholding second-year vacancy and $750 fee (unanimous)
• Re-elected David Anderson as Chair (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)

Municipal

The Silver Lake Commission met on July 19, 2023, and discussed several topics but made no formal decisions. Police reported low crime but noted unsanctioned parties; the commission discussed the Delaware Livable Lawns program, invasive species at the causeway, and the upcoming lake drawdown. No votes were taken.

• No formal decisions or votes were recorded at this meeting.
• Discussed Delaware Livable Lawns program for environmentally friendly lawn care.
• Noted Public Works will address invasive species at the causeway; follow-up in November.
• Lake drawdown dates set for October 9-20, 2023.
• Discussed renaming parks; no guidelines exist yet.
• Discussed potential HAWK light at Division Street crossing; city lacks control, DelDOT may be contacted.

Library Commission

The Dover Public Library Advisory Commission met and approved the May 16, 2023 minutes. The FY2024 library budget has passed with no significant cuts, including approval for a third part-time Passport Clerk. The commission discussed security incidents, staffing changes, and a new Kent County tax district for library services that does not affect Dover residents.

• Approved minutes of May 16, 2023 (all in favor)
• FY2024 library budget passed with no significant cuts
• Approved hiring a third PT Passport Clerk in FY2024 budget
• Noted internal promotions: Rosie Mujica to Head of Youth Services, Rebecca Manchester to PT Library Assistant
• Discussed increasing passport fees (no action taken)
• Discussed adding a second security guard (no action taken)
• Noted Kent County tax district for Capital School District (not affecting Dover)
• Adjourned at 12:01pm (all in favor)

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will hold public hearings on five new applications, including a medical office complex, a university building, and a residential subdivision. The body will also elect its annual officers and appoint an architectural review subcommittee. No specific dollar amounts for contracts or fees are listed in the agenda.

• C-23-02: Conditional use application for The Hive business/event center at 28 W. Loockerman Street
• S-23-13: Site development plan for a 14,512 SF Early Childhood Innovation Center at 1200 N Dupont Hwy
• S-23-15: Site development plan for two 19,800 SF office buildings at 101 Mont Blanc Boulevard
• SB-23-02: Minor subdivision plan to split two properties into four lots for single-family dwellings on North Little Creek Road
• Election of Planning Commission Chairman and Vice-Chairman

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Development Advisory Committee (DAC) will meet to review and comment on four applications that will be considered by the Planning Commission on July 17, 2023. The meeting is for agency reviewers and applicants; public comment is not accepted. The applications include a conditional use for an event space, two site development plans, and a minor subdivision.

• C-23-02: Conditional use for The Hive at 28 W. Loockerman St to convert 2,493 SF to office/event space
• S-23-13: New 14,512 SF Early Childhood Innovation Center at Delaware State University, 1200 N Dupont Hwy
• S-23-15: Two 19,800 SF office buildings at 101 Mont Blanc Blvd, with waiver for loading spaces
• SB-23-02: Minor subdivision of 0.817 acres into 4 lots for single-family homes at 1542 & 1554 N Little Creek Rd

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board held its annual meeting to review the FY24 annual budget, workplan, and nomination committee updates. The agenda included discussions on the Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing, the Downtown Dover Strategic Master Plan, and legislative updates. The meeting concluded with public comment and thanks to board members.

• Review of FY 24 Annual Budget and workplan
• Discussion of Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing property updates
• Review of Downtown Dover Strategic Master Plan Priorities
• Legislative updates

Board of Adjustment

This is a notice for a joint training session on land use law for members of the Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment, and Historic District Commission. The session is informational only; no official decisions or actions will be taken by any board or commission.

• Training on land use law for three city boards/commissions
• Held June 27, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, City Hall
• No official action will be taken

General Employee Pension Plan Board

The Dover General Employee Pension Plan Board voted to commission an actuarial study on cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) in 1% increments from 3% to 10%, including recent salary adjustments, with results due by August 3, 2023. The board also approved holding an executive session to discuss pension ordinance compliance and agreed to receive quarterly expenditure reports from the pension fund. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved COLA actuarial study for 3-10% in 1% increments, due Aug 3, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved executive session to discuss pension ordinances regarding specific individuals (unanimous)
• Approved quarterly expenditure reports from pension fund (unanimous)

Council Committee of the Whole

This agenda is a cancellation notice. The Council Committee of the Whole will not meet on June 27, 2023, and no items will be considered.

• Meeting cancelled

City Council Meetings

This is a notice that Dover City Council members have been invited to attend Land Use Law Training on June 27, 2023. A quorum may be present, but this is not a formal meeting, so no official action will be taken.

• Land Use Law Training for council members
• Meeting at Council Chambers, City Hall, 6:00 p.m.

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council is holding its regular meeting on June 26, 2023, with a public hearing on the Electric Fund Budget and final reading of the FY2023-24 budget ordinance. They will also consider consent agenda items, including committee reports, a public space naming policy, and several grant approvals. The meeting includes a presentation on an electric rate study and discussion of code citation recommendations.

• Public hearing on Electric Fund Budget
• Ordinance #2023-05: Fiscal Year 2023-2024 City of Dover Budget Ordinances (final reading)
• Homeland Security Grant Program approval for water system and well sites security project (video surveillance and fencing)
• Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant collaborative initiative with Dover/Kent County MPO
• Removing properties from the 10-Year Tax Abatement Program

The Dover City Council adopted Ordinance #2023-05, the FY2024 budget, totaling $59,263,600, with no property tax increase. The budget was amended to increase the transfer from the rate stabilization reserve by $900,000 to offset electric rate increases, delaying the effective date of new electric rates to August 1, 2023. The council also approved returning 18 properties to the tax rolls and allowing the tax office to administratively remove tax abatements.

• Adopted FY2024 budget ordinance #2023-05 totaling $59,263,600 (unanimous)
• Amended budget to increase rate stabilization transfer by $900,000, delaying electric rate increase to August 1 (6-3)
• Approved returning 18 properties to tax rolls and allowing administrative removal of tax abatements (unanimous)
• Consent agenda deferred to July 24, 2023 meeting

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss the proposed FY24 budget, including revenue alternatives and other policy matters. The meeting is open to the public with virtual access via WebEx. No final decisions are scheduled; it is a discussion item.

• Discussion of proposed FY24 budget
• Revenue alternatives for the budget
• Other policy matters related to the budget

The Dover City Council held a special meeting to discuss the proposed FY24 budget, which projects expenses exceeding revenues across all major funds. No formal vote on the budget was taken; instead, the council unanimously approved a motion to have the City Manager's financial team provide cost scenarios for electric rate increases. The meeting was informational, with no final budget decisions made.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved motion to instruct City Manager's financial team to bring back numbers on 0.5-cent and 0.25-cent electric rate options (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will continue reviewing the College Road Apartments site plan (385 units) and hold a public hearing on the Eden Hill Farm TND revised implementation plan, which would increase the unit count from 665 to 725. The Hive conditional use application is postponed due to incomplete public notice. The meeting also includes routine items like minutes approval and updates.

• Continued review of S-23-06 College Road Apartments: two 6-story buildings, 385 units, parking reduction waiver, active recreation area plan
• Public hearing on S-23-12 Eden Hill Farm TND revised plan: phases 4-6, unit count increase to 725, lot reconfigurations, open space creation
• Conditional Use C-23-02 The Hive (28 W. Loockerman Street) postponed due to incomplete public notice
• Adoption of May 15, 2023 minutes
• Land Use Law, FOIA & Ethics Training Session on June 27, 2023

The Dover Planning Commission approved the revised implementation plan for Eden Hill Farm TND, increasing the unit count from 665 to 725 and adding open space. It also denied the parking waiver for the College Road Apartments project and then approved the site development plan without the waiver. The commission also approved the agenda and minutes, and continued review of the College Road Apartments application earlier in the meeting.

• Approved agenda as submitted (5-1)
• Approved minutes of May 15, 2023 (6-0)
• Continued review of S-23-06 College Road Apartments (5-1)
• Denied parking waiver for S-23-06 College Road Apartments (6-0)
• Approved S-23-06 College Road Apartments site plan without parking waiver (5-1)
• Approved S-23-12 Eden Hill Farm TND revised implementation plan (6-0)

DDP Design Committee

The Design Committee meeting scheduled for June 14, 2023, has been canceled. The next meeting is set for July 12, 2023. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Meeting canceled for June 14, 2023
• Next meeting scheduled for July 12, 2023

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee meeting scheduled for June 13, 2023 has been cancelled. The next meeting is set for September 12, 2023. No items were discussed or decided.

• Meeting cancelled for June 13, 2023
• Next meeting scheduled for September 12, 2023

City Council Meetings

The City of Dover Council holds a special meeting on June 13, 2023, primarily to enter an executive session. The agenda lists a 'Potential Land Sale' for preliminary discussion under state law regarding real property sales or leases. No specific property details, dollar amounts, or final decisions are provided in the agenda text.

• Executive session to discuss a potential land sale pursuant to 29 Del. C. §10004(b)(2)

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on June 13, 2023, primarily to enter executive session for preliminary discussions on site acquisitions for publicly funded capital improvements or real property sales/leases. No formal decisions or actions were taken during the meeting; the agenda was adopted and the meeting adjourned.

• Adopted the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recessed into executive session for preliminary site acquisition discussions (unanimous)
• No action taken following executive session

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended approval of a Homeland Security Grant for water system and well site security, including a sole source designation for Advantech. It also formed an ad hoc committee to develop a public space naming policy, approved code citation recommendations with council suggestions, and endorsed participation in a regional Safe Streets and Roads for All grant application. The electric rate study was presented for information only, with no action taken.

• Recommended approval of Homeland Security Grant for water system security (unanimous)
• Formed ad hoc committee for public space naming policy (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of code citation recommendations with council suggestions (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of SS4A grant participation with Dover/Kent County MPO (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will vote on setting electric, water, and wastewater rates for fiscal year 2024, schedule a public hearing for the electric fund budget, and review pension cost-of-living adjustments. They will also hold a first reading of the FY2023/2024 budget ordinance. The agenda includes routine consent items, committee reports, and appointments.

• Setting of electric, water, and wastewater rates and tariffs for FY2024
• Public hearing set for June 26, 2023 on Electric Fund Budget
• First reading of Proposed Ordinance #2023-05 (FY2023/2024 Budget)
• Review of pension benefits COLA
• Appointments to Economic Development Committee and Utility Committee

The Dover City Council approved the consent agenda, including appointments and committee reports, and set a public hearing for June 26, 2023, on the Electric Fund Budget. The council also acknowledged the first reading of the FY2023/2024 Budget Ordinance, with final action scheduled for June 26. A proposed pension COLA item was removed from the agenda at the city manager's request. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were informational or routine.

• Adopted agenda as amended, removing pension COLA item (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including monthly reports and appointments (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to create council president liaison to Human Relations Commission (unanimous)
• Approved Fiscal Year 2023 Audit Program (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for June 26, 2023, on Electric Fund Budget (unanimous)
• Acknowledged first reading of Ordinance #2023-05, FY2023/2024 Budget Ordinance

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Development Advisory Committee (DAC) will meet to review and comment on a revised implementation plan for the Eden Hill Farm Traditional Neighborhood Design (TND) project. The plan proposes changes to Phases 4, 5, and 6, including lot reconfigurations, open space adjustments, and an increase in total dwelling units from 665 to 725. This is an applicant meeting; public comment is not accepted, but the public may attend. The Planning Commission will consider the application on June 20, 2023.

• Increase total unit count from 665 to 725 dwelling units
• Reconfigure Lots 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 (multi-family) and adjacent alleys
• Convert Lot 11 from open space to townhouse lots
• Create Signers Park Open Space (6.12 acres) and a multi-family lot (5.28 acres)
• Abandon certain street and alley rights-of-way; adjust alignment of Red Haven Way

Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals

The Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals will hold a virtual and in-person meeting to consider one specific agenda item. The board will review an appeal regarding the registration fee for a vacant building located at 65 Chatham Court. No other substantive decisions, ordinances, or contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Appeal of registration fee for vacant building at 65 Chatham Court (Quio Jiang, Daniel Lin Properties, LLC)

Board of Assessment Appeals Committee

The Dover Board of Assessment Appeals will vote on a consent agenda item for JMSJ Best LLC at 155 Greentree Dr. The committee will also hear specific appeals for tax exemptions for Central DE Habitat for Humanity, Capitol Baptist Church of Dover, Children and Families First DE INC., and Elizabeth W Murphy School Inc. Additionally, the board will consider a senior citizen reduction appeal for Suzanne Cerro at 27 Fieldstone Ct and a commercial appeal for JMSJ Best LLC.

• Consent vote on JMSJ Best LLC appeal for 155 Greentree Dr.
• Exempt requests for Central DE Habitat for Humanity (101 N West St., 39 S New St., 29 S Governors Ave.)
• Exempt request for Capitol Baptist Church of Dover (1305 New Burton Rd.)
• Exempt request for Children and Families First DE INC. (195 Willis Rd.)
• Exempt requests for Elizabeth W Murphy School Inc. (20 Pennsylvania Ave., 535 S State St.)

The Board of Assessment Appeals approved tax exemptions for properties owned by Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity, Capitol Baptist Church, Children and Families First DE Inc., and Elizabeth W. Murphy School Inc., with conditions. A senior citizen tax reduction request was denied because the applicant was not the property owner. The consent agenda, including a stipulated value for 155 Greentree Dr., was also approved.

• Approved consent agenda including stipulated value for 155 Greentree Dr. (unanimous)
• Approved tax exemptions for 3 Habitat for Humanity properties, with 2-year re-application condition (4-0)
• Approved tax exemption for Capitol Baptist Church property at 1305 New Burton Rd (4-0)
• Approved tax exemption for Children and Families First DE Inc. property at 195 Willis Rd, with Form 990 requirement (4-0)
• Approved conditional 1-year tax exemption for Elizabeth W. Murphy School Inc. properties, pending zoning review (4-0)
• Denied senior citizen tax reduction for Suzanne Cerro at 27 Fieldstone Ct (4-0)

City Council Meetings

The special City Council meeting scheduled for June 1, 2023, to review the budget has been canceled. No items will be considered.

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council held a special meeting to review the proposed FY24 budget, which includes a $0.04 property tax increase, sanitation fee increase to $27/month, water rate increase to $2.88/Tgal, wastewater rate increase to $3.25/Tgal, and a reduced electric fund transfer to the general fund ($8M from $10M). The council unanimously voted to recommend the budget for approval at the first meeting. No final approval was made; the budget will be considered at a future meeting.

• Recommended FY24 budget for approval (unanimous)
• Proposed $0.04 property tax increase (9.2% over FY23, generating ~$1.4M)
• Proposed sanitation fee increase to $27/month
• Proposed water rate increase to $2.88/Tgal
• Proposed wastewater rate increase to $3.25/Tgal
• Reduced electric fund transfer to general fund from $10M to $8M
• Deferred electric rate study to June 13 Committee of the Whole meeting

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board is meeting to discuss routine business including minutes, a police report, and updates from the executive committee. They will also review property updates, the Downtown Dover Strategic Master Plan, and a new grant application to the Community Reinvestment Fund. The agenda includes several items that are updates or discussions rather than final decisions.

• Police report
• Property updates: EZ Pass, Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing, 120 S. Governor's Ave.
• Downtown Dover Strategic Master Plan update/priorities
• New grant application to Community Reinvestment Fund
• Proposed by-laws edits

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will hear updates on regional transportation projects, the Human Relations Commission, and the FY2023 audit program, and review annual budget amendments. Most items are informational with no action required, except the audit program which has a staff recommendation for acceptance.

• Quarterly briefing on Dover/Kent County MPO projects
• Dover Human Relations Commission update by Chair Alan Gaddis
• Discussion of FY2023 Audit Program with staff recommendation for acceptance
• Review of FY2022/2023 Annual Budget Amendments

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended creating a formal council president appointment for a liaison to the Dover Human Relations Commission and accepted the Fiscal Year 2023 Audit Program. No other substantive decisions were made; the MPO and budget items were informational only.

• Recommended creating council president liaison to Human Relations Commission (unanimous)
• Recommended acceptance of FY 2023 Audit Program (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council unanimously adopted Resolution No. 2023-08 supporting the creation of library tax districts in Kent County, provided that residents within Dover city limits are not assessed a library tax. The council also approved a consent agenda that included numerous appointments to city boards and commissions, and approved minutes from previous meetings. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Adopted Resolution No. 2023-08 supporting library tax districts in Kent County, with Dover residents exempt (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including appointments to boards and commissions (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 8, 2023 Council President Candidates Meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 8, 2023 Regular Council Meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of February 14, 2023 Economic Development Committee Meeting (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will review a referral for a 6-foot vinyl fence at 147 S. New Street, which is located in the Central Commercial and Historic District zones. The meeting also includes the adoption of minutes from November 2022 and January 2023, as well as a training session on historic preservation law. No other new applications or major decisions are listed on the revised agenda.

• Review of Fence Permit #23-781 for a 6-foot vinyl fence at 147 S. New Street
• Adoption of minutes from November 10, 2022, and January 19, 2023
• Training session on Advanced Historic Preservation Law & Procedures

The Dover Historic District Commission approved a fence permit for 147 S. New Street with a 6-foot height but required wood materials instead of the requested vinyl, citing aesthetic concerns. The commission also approved the agenda and minutes from prior meetings, and discussed the architectural review certification process and historic district boundary amendments.

• Approved fence permit #23-781 at 147 S. New Street with 6-foot height, wood material, and similar appearance to original (4-0)
• Denied request for 6-foot vinyl fence at 147 S. New Street (4-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (4-0)
• Adopted minutes of November 10, 2022 meeting (4-0)
• Adopted minutes of January 19, 2023 meeting (4-0)

Board of Adjustment

The City of Dover Board of Adjustment has cancelled its regular meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 17, 2023. No specific agenda items or decisions were made at this session. The next scheduled meeting is set for Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at 9:00 AM.

• Meeting cancellation notice posted May 8, 2023
• Next meeting scheduled for June 21, 2023

Library Commission

The Dover Public Library Advisory Commission met on May 16, 2023, to review operational statistics, staffing, and security reports. The primary new business item was a report from the Kent County Levy Court regarding library tax districts. The agenda also included updates from the Friends of Dover Library and the Dover Library Foundation.

• Kent County Levy Court report on Library Tax Districts
• Review of library statistics and staffing status
• Report on security in the library
• Reports from the Council on Libraries, Friends of Dover Library, and Dover Library Foundation

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission approved a one-year extension for the Bay Pointe Apartments conditional use site plan and approved the revised Phase 3A parking lot at Landing Square, including a waiver to reduce the arterial street buffer. Both motions passed unanimously 8-0. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting also included routine agenda and minutes approvals.

• Approved one-year extension for C-21-04 Bay Pointe Apartments (8-0)
• Approved S-23-10 Landing Square parking lot with arterial buffer waiver (8-0)

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole will not meet on May 9, 2023, as stated in the agenda. No items are scheduled for discussion or decision at this meeting.

Economic Development Committee

The Dover Economic Development Committee is meeting to adopt the agenda and minutes from February 14, 2023, and to hear a presentation from Delaware State University on hospitality and tourism management. The meeting is open to the public with virtual access via Zoom.

• Presentation by Delaware State University on Hospitality and Tourism Management
• Adoption of minutes from February 14, 2023 meeting
• Public comments welcomed on any agenda item

The Economic Development Committee met on May 9, 2023, and heard a presentation from June E. Clarke, Director of the Hospitality and Tourism Management program at Delaware State University. The discussion focused on workforce development, internships, and retaining students in Dover. No formal decisions were made; the committee only approved the agenda and adopted the minutes from the February 14, 2023 meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion by Councilman Anderson, seconded by Dave Hugg)
• Adopted minutes from February 14, 2023 meeting (motion by Mary Ellen Gray, seconded by Councilman Anderson)

City Council Meetings

The special meeting was held to elect a Council President/Vice-Mayor for 2023/2024. After nominations and opening statements from candidates Mr. Anderson and Mr. Hare, the council voted by secret ballot. The minutes do not record the vote tally or the winner, only that the election occurred and the meeting adjourned.

• Adopted the meeting agenda unanimously
• Nominated Mr. Hare for Council President/Vice-Mayor
• Nominated Mr. Anderson for Council President/Vice-Mayor
• Accepted both nominees for Council President unanimously
• Approved secret ballot as voting method for Council President unanimously

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council is holding its annual meeting, where members will be sworn in and the mayor will deliver the State of the City message. Key actions include a public hearing and final vote on a zoning change for a property on Forrest Avenue, approval of the 2023 CDBG five-year consolidated plan, and a resolution authorizing banking signatures. The consent agenda includes routine reports and appointments.

• Public hearing and final reading of Ordinance #2023-04 to rezone 2161 Forrest Avenue from R-10 to RM-2 (with COZ-1 overlay)
• Resolution No. 2023-07 approving the 2023 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Five-Year Consolidated Plan
• Resolution No. 2023-06 authorizing banking signatures for city officials
• ARPA proposed recommendations for housing and community service projects totaling $499,610.82
• Appointments to city boards and annual staff appointments

The Dover City Council held its annual meeting, swore in the mayor and council members, and elected William Hare as Council President/Vice-Mayor for 2023/2024. The council approved a rezoning of 2161 Forrest Avenue from R-10 to RM-2, adopted resolutions authorizing banking signatures and the 2023 CDBG Action Plan, and approved annual staff appointments. Several agenda items and appointments were deferred to the May 22 meeting.

• Elected William Hare as Council President/Vice-Mayor for 2023/2024 (secret ballot)
• Approved rezoning at 2161 Forrest Avenue from R-10 to RM-2 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2023-06 authorizing banking signatures (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2023-07 approving 2023 CDBG Action Plan (unanimous)
• Approved 2022/23 City Council Annual Staff Appointments (8-0, 1 not voting)
• Deferred agenda items #25, #26, #27 to May 22 meeting (unanimous)
• Deferred 2023/24 Mayoral and Council President appointments to May 22 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 24, 2023 meeting (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Days Celebration Committee met to review the event budget, sponsorship status, and vendor reports. The body discussed a proposed by-law change to designate the City Manager or their designee as the registered agent. Additionally, the committee addressed event insurance, volunteer needs, and updates on specific festival components like the parade and Maypole.

• Proposed by-law change: Registered agent role to be held by 'City Manager or his or her designee'
• Review of event budget and sponsorship updates
• Discussion of event (weather/other) insurance
• Updates on parade, Maypole, and programming logistics
• Determination of next meeting date for festival debrief

Home Events

The Joint General Employee Pension Plan Board, Police Pension Plan Retirement Committee, and OPEB Board will meet electronically to review quarterly performance reports from Milliman, Inc. for the three pension plans, and to discuss the history and background of the General Employee Pension Plan's cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). The meeting is open to the public via WebEx.

• Quarterly performance reviews for General Employee Pension Plan, Police Pension Plan, and OPEB Plan (quarter ending March 31, 2023)
• Review of the history and background of the General Employee Pension Plan COLA
• Adoption of minutes from February 9, 2023 meeting
• Market commentary

The joint pension boards approved a motion to propose a 5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for the General Employee Pension Plan and to request an actuary study on its impact, with a special meeting to be called for a vote. The boards also accepted quarterly performance reviews for all three plans and adopted minutes from prior meetings. A retiree's concerns about previous minutes were noted, and the City Clerk's office will investigate.

• Proposed 5% COLA for General Employee Pension Plan, requesting actuary study (unanimous)
• Accepted Quarterly Performance Review for General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Quarterly Performance Review for Police Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Quarterly Performance Review for OPEB Plan (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes of Police Pension Retirement Committee meeting of Feb 9, 2023 (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes of OPEB Board meeting of Feb 9, 2023 (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes of General Employee Pension Plan Board meeting of Feb 9, 2023 (unanimous)

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board met to review minutes, a police report, and staff updates on the budget and nominations. The primary substantive item was a discussion of the Downtown Dover Strategic Master Plan priorities. The agenda also included a closed executive session for personnel matters and a public comment period.

• Discussion of Downtown Dover Strategic Master Plan priorities
• Executive Committee update on budget
• Nomination committee update
• Police report review
• Executive session for personnel matters

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Dover Development Advisory Committee is reviewing a revised site development plan for Phase 3A of the Landing Square development at 560 and 600 Bay Road. The applicant proposes a 99-space parking lot instead of a previously proposed 6,400 SF restaurant. A waiver to reduce the arterial street buffer is requested. The meeting is open to the public in person and virtually.

• Revised Phase 3A site plan for Landing Square: 99-space parking lot instead of 6,400 SF restaurant
• Waiver request: reduction of arterial street buffer
• Property zoned C-4 (Highway Commercial), owned by BAYROADCAP, LLC
• Location: 560 and 600 Bay Road, Council District 2

Municipal

The Silver Lake Commission meeting scheduled for April 26, 2023 has been postponed. A new date has not yet been announced.

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole met to discuss two main items. Staff recommended approving a proposed budget totaling $499,610.82 for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Housing and Community Service Projects. Additionally, Council President Sudler led a review and discussion of a draft proposal to restructure the Planning and Inspections departments.

• Approval of proposed ARPA budget totaling $499,610.82 for Housing and Community Service Projects
• Review and discussion of draft proposal for restructuring Planning and Inspections

The Council Committee of the Whole approved a proposed budget totaling $499,610.82 for housing and community service projects, as recommended by staff. The committee also discharged the joint subcommittee that evaluated ARPA funding requests from nonprofits. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved $499,610.82 budget for housing and community service projects (unanimous)
• Discharged joint subcommittee to evaluate ARPA funding requests from nonprofits (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The City Council will vote to approve memorandums of understanding for the implementation of the Wage Equity Study. The meeting includes a review of traffic calming options for Governors Boulevard, Ross Street, and N. Bradford Street, as well as a speed reduction plan for US 13. Additionally, the Council will consider the purchase of two police motorcycles and review 2023 municipal election results.

• Approval of Memorandums of Understanding for the Wage Equity Study
• Review of US 13 Speed Reduction associated with Pedestrian Safety Study
• Review of Traffic Calming Options for Governors Boulevard, Ross Street, and N. Bradford Street
• Purchase of two Police Department motorcycles via sole source vendor
• 2023 Regular Municipal Election Results

The Dover City Council ratified Memorandums of Understanding with AFSCME, IBEW, and DOE unions to implement the wage equity study, with unanimous roll call votes. The council also approved a $2,067,557 contract for the Dover Park building and spray pad, delayed the Schutte Park Skate Project to FY 25, and approved $321,669 in CDBG funds. A proposed speed reduction on US 13 was denied in a 5-5 vote.

• Ratified wage equity MOUs with AFSCME, IBEW, and DOE (unanimous)
• Approved $2,067,557 contract to Kent Construction for Dover Park building and spray pad (unanimous)
• Delayed Schutte Park Skate Project to FY 25 (unanimous)
• Approved $321,669 in CDBG funds to sub-grantees (unanimous)
• Approved sole vendor purchase of two police motorcycles from Rommel Harley Davidson (unanimous)
• Denied US 13 speed reduction from 45 to 40 MPH (5-5 vote)
• Approved Rail Haus Beer Garden waiver request (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 municipal election results (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The City of Dover Historic District Commission has cancelled its scheduled meeting for April 20, 2023, citing a lack of agenda items. No decisions or discussions will take place at this session. The next scheduled meeting is set for May 18, 2023.

• Meeting cancellation notice issued for April 20, 2023
• Next meeting scheduled for May 18, 2023

Board of Adjustment

The City of Dover Board of Adjustment has cancelled its regular meeting scheduled for Wednesday, April 19, 2023. No specific reasons for the cancellation are provided in the notice. The next scheduled meeting is set for Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at 9:00 AM.

• Meeting cancellation notice posted April 11, 2023
• Next meeting scheduled for May 17, 2023

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will hold public hearings and reviews on several development applications, including a request to extend approval for a Bayhealth parking lot expansion, continued review of a 385-unit apartment complex, a rezoning for a church property, and a new warehouse and bakery. The commission will also adopt minutes and receive updates.

• Bayhealth parking expansion: request for one-year extension of approval for 453 new parking spaces (total 680) on Scull Property, with demolition of 7 buildings including Scull Mansion
• College Road Apartments: continued review of site plan for two 6-story buildings with 385 units, parking, and street improvements on 31.08 acres
• Rezoning of 2161 Forrest Avenue (11.9973 acres) from R-10 to RM-2 for Jireh Christian Center
• Byler's Warehouse: new site plan for 37,107 SF warehouse & bakery at 651 Garrison Oak Drive, with waiver requests for parking and curbing

The Dover Planning Commission tabled the College Road Apartments site plan (S-23-06) until the June meeting after a motion to approve failed 2-5. The tabling allows parties to meet and attempt to resolve a property ownership dispute raised by Dr. Mishoe's attorney. The commission also approved a one-year extension for the Bayhealth parking lot expansion, recommended rezoning for the Jireh Christian Center property, and approved Byler's Warehouse site plan.

• Tabled College Road Apartments site plan (S-23-06) until June meeting (7-0)
• Denied motion to approve College Road Apartments with parking waiver removal (2-5)
• Approved one-year extension for Bayhealth Staff Parking Lot Expansion (7-0)
• Recommended approval of rezoning at 2161 Forrest Avenue to RM-2 (7-0)
• Approved Byler's Warehouse site plan at 651 Garrison Oak Drive (7-0)
• Approved parking waiver for Byler's Warehouse (7-0)
• Approved Performance Standards Review for Byler's Warehouse (7-0)

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership held a special meeting to review recommendations for the Critical Improvements Fund. The agenda focused on two specific applications from Loockerman Suites, LLC, for new commercial food operations. No other major decisions, contracts, or ordinances were listed on the agenda.

• Recommendation for Loockerman Suites, LLC (Kim Adams) for Fun Thymes and commercial kitchen at 221 W. Loockerman St.
• Recommendation for Loockerman Suites, LLC (Kim Adams) for Gingo Exchange “grab ‘n go” at 225 W. Loockerman St.

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee meeting scheduled for April 11, 2023, has been cancelled. The next meeting is set for May 9, 2023. No items were discussed or decided.

• Meeting cancelled for April 11, 2023
• Next meeting scheduled for May 9, 2023

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council convened a special meeting on April 11, 2023, to enter an executive session. The agenda indicates the session is a strategy meeting involving legal advice regarding collective bargaining or pending or potential litigation. No specific public actions, votes, or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda, as the items are confidential.

• Executive session strategy session pursuant to 29 Del. C. §10004(b)(4)
• Agenda posted with less than seven days notice

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on April 11, 2023, and after an executive session on the Wage Equity Study, approved a motion to bring all employees up to the study's minimums plus a 1.5% annual placement, effective May 1st. The motion passed 5-1, with Mr. Anderson voting no. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved wage equity pay adjustments: all employees brought to study minimums plus 1.5% per year, effective May 1 (5-1, Anderson no)
• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recessed into executive session for strategy on wage equity study (unanimous)

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole is reviewing a $2,067,557 contract for a new building and spray pad at Dover Park, which staff recommend awarding to Kent Construction. The meeting also covers a proposed speed reduction on US 13 and traffic calming options for three local streets. Additionally, the committee will review a CDBG grant application and a sole-source purchase of police motorcycles.

• Award $2,067,557 contract to Kent Construction for Dover Park building and spray pad (RFP #23-0009PR)
• Support US 13 speed reduction from 45 MPH to 40 MPH between Scarborough Road and N State Street
• Select traffic calming options for Governors Boulevard, Ross Street, and N Bradford Street
• Award $321,669 in Community Development Block Grant funds to sub-grantees
• Approve sole-source purchase of two police motorcycles from Rommel Harley Davidson

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended awarding a $2,067,557 contract to Kent Construction for a building and spray pad at Dover Park, and delaying the Schutte Park Skate Project to FY 25. A proposed speed reduction on US 13 was denied in a 5-5 vote. The committee also recommended a traffic calming option for Governors Boulevard, approved a waiver for Rail Haus Beer Garden, and recommended CDBG funding and a police motorcycle purchase.

• Approved $2,067,557 contract to Kent Construction for Dover Park building and spray pad (unanimous)
• Delayed Schutte Park Skate Project to FY 25 (unanimous)
• Denied US 13 speed reduction from 45 to 40 MPH (5-5 vote)
• Approved traffic calming option 1D for Governors Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved Rail Haus Beer Garden waiver request (unanimous)
• Approved $321,669 in CDBG funds to sub-grantees (unanimous)
• Approved sole vendor purchase of two police motorcycles from Rommel Harley Davidson (unanimous)
• Approved updated Donated Sick Leave Policy (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will hold public hearings on two bond resolutions for lead service line work, consider annexation and rezoning of a property on Acorn Lane, and review comprehensive plan amendments for two Calpine Holdings parcels on White Oak Road. The agenda also includes consent items, committee reports, and monthly departmental reports. The Dover Police Department 2022 Annual Report was removed from the agenda.

• Resolution 2023-03: up to $60,000 in water and sewer revenue bonds for Lead Service Line Inventory Project
• Resolution 2023-04: up to $115,000 in water and sewer revenue bonds for Lead Service Line Inventory/Replacement at Brandywine Court Condominiums
• Annexation and rezoning of 273 Acorn Lane (0.611 acres) from RS-1 to R-8
• Comprehensive Plan amendments for two Calpine Holdings parcels on White Oak Road (144.83 and 104.06 acres) to designate as Priority Annexation Area and Public & Private Utilities
• Request for subdivision waivers for Wyoming LLC at Jefferson Terrace Ext (withdrawal submitted)

The Dover City Council denied a proposed amendment to the city's comprehensive plan that would have designated two Calpine-owned parcels on White Oak Road as a priority annexation area for a solar farm. The vote was 2-4 with one abstention. The council also approved two resolutions authorizing up to $175,000 in water and sewer revenue bonds for lead service line work, and approved the annexation and rezoning of a property at 273 Acorn Lane.

• Denied comprehensive plan amendment for Calpine solar annexation (2-4-1)
• Approved Resolution 2023-03: $60,000 bond for lead service line inventory (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-04: $115,000 bond for lead service line replacement at Brandywine Court (unanimous)
• Approved annexation of 273 Acorn Lane (Resolution 2023-05) (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 273 Acorn Lane to R-8 (Ordinance 2023-03) (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda as amended, removing Wyoming LLC subdivision waiver request (unanimous)
• Deferred Arbor Day proclamation to April 25 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 27, 2023 meeting (unanimous)

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Development Advisory Committee (DAC) will meet on April 5, 2023, to review and comment on two applications that will go before the Planning Commission on April 17, 2023. The meeting is for agency reviewers and applicants; public comment is not accepted. The applications are a rezoning request for a property on Forrest Avenue and a site development plan for a warehouse and bakery on Garrison Oak Drive.

• Rezoning application Z-23-01 for 11.9973 acres at 2161 Forrest Avenue, from R-10 to RM-2, with COZ-1 overlay
• Site development plan S-23-09 for a 37,107 SF warehouse and bakery at 651 Garrison Oak Drive
• Waiver requests for reduction of parking requirement and partial elimination of upright curbing for the warehouse project
• Public comment will be accepted at the Planning Commission meeting on April 17, 2023

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will discuss creating an Economic and Community Development Fund and receive updates on conduit bonds and Loockerman Street changes. They will also review a subdivision waiver request for the Ekaman Subdivision. The meeting includes public comment opportunities.

• Creation of an Economic and Community Development Fund
• Waiver requests for Ekaman Subdivision (Jefferson Terrace extension) to allow alternative lot configuration, reduced frontage, and increased cul-de-sac lots
• Update on conduit bonds movement
• Review of Loockerman Street changes (first steps)
• Follow-up on Capital School District safety concerns in Hispanic community

The Council Committee of the Whole voted on three subdivision waiver requests for the Ekaman Subdivision at Jefferson Terrace. It approved a waiver for an alternative lot configuration and reduced frontage for a stormwater management lot, but denied waivers for eliminating a sidewalk requirement and for allowing an increased percentage of lots on a cul-de-sac. The committee also discussed the Loockerman Street changes, an Economic and Community Development Fund, and conduit bonds, but took no action on those items.

• Approved waiver for alternative lot configuration and reduced frontage for stormwater management lot (motion carried, Neil voting no)
• Denied waiver for elimination of sidewalk requirement on Monroe Terrace (0-8)
• Denied waiver to allow increased percentage of lots on cul-de-sac (0-8)

City Council Meetings

The City Council will vote to award a $415,800 contract to Teal Construction for the West Street East Alley water main replacement and a $413,294 contract to Grassbusters Landscaping for the FY 2023B Street and Alley Program. The body will also take first reading on a rezoning application for a 12-acre parcel at 2161 Forrest Avenue, changing its designation from R-10 to RM-2. Additionally, the Council will consider extending the ambulance service contract with St. Francis by one year.

• Award $415,800 contract to Teal Construction for West Street East Alley water main replacement
• Award $413,294 contract to Grassbusters Landscaping for FY 2023B Street and Alley Program
• First reading of Ordinance #2023-04 to rezone 11.9973 acres at 2161 Forrest Avenue from R-10 to RM-2
• Extend ambulance service contract with St. Francis by one year, expiring March 31, 2024
• Adopt Resolution No. 2023-02 authorizing participation in National Opioid Settlements

The Dover City Council approved several contracts and recommendations, including a $415,800 water main replacement contract for West Street East Alley and a $413,294 street and alley program contract. Council also approved a resolution to participate in national opioid settlements, extended the ambulance service contract with St. Francis for one year, and set the electric purchase power adjustment to $0.00 from April 1 through the end of the fiscal year. A first reading of a zoning ordinance for 2161 Forest Avenue was referred to the Planning Commission with a public hearing set for April 17, 2023.

• Approved $415,800 water main replacement contract to Teal Construction (unanimous)
• Approved $413,294 street and alley program contract to Grassbusters Landscaping (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to participate in national opioid settlements (unanimous)
• Approved one-year extension of ambulance service contract with St. Francis (unanimous)
• Set electric purchase power adjustment to $0.00 effective April 1, 2023 (unanimous)
• Referred zoning ordinance for 2161 Forest Avenue to Planning Commission, public hearing April 17 (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Jaclyn K. Hale to Dover Public Library Advisory Commission (unanimous)
• Approved cash-in-lieu amount for Dover Apartments at Leipsic Road recreation plan (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

This is a Council workshop, not a voting meeting. The Council is reviewing the city's economic outlook, bond rating requirements, budget expenses and revenues, community relations, and traffic impacts. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Economic update
• Bond rating requirements
• Budgetary expenses and challenges
• Budgetary revenues and challenges
• Traffic impacts and Transportation Improvement District discussion

The Dover City Council held a workshop to review the FY24 budget, including expenditures, revenues, and challenges. No formal votes were taken, but the council discussed a potential community relations office, with Police Chief Johnson recommending a civilian-staffed outreach office rather than a police substation. The workshop also included presentations on economic conditions, bond ratings, and transportation improvement districts.

• Adopted workshop agenda by unanimous consent
• Discussed FY24 budget projections, including $67.3M general fund expenditures
• Reviewed Moody's upgrade of Dover's issuer rating to Aa2
• Discussed potential community relations office, no action taken
• Heard DelDOT presentation on traffic counts and TIDs

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board will meet to discuss routine updates, including the police report, budget, insurance audit, and bylaw changes. The main item is a recommendation of applicants for the Critical Improvements Fund, with three properties under consideration. The board will also review the Downtown Dover Strategic Master Plan and its related contracts.

• CIP recommendation for Grey Fox at 140 S. State St.
• CIP recommendation for Retail Spaces at 123 & 125 W. Loockerman St.
• CIP recommendation for Golden Fleece at 132 & 134 W. Loockerman St.
• Discussion of Downtown Dover Strategic Master Plan priorities and contracts
• Updates on budget, insurance audit, and bylaw changes

Library Commission

The Dover Public Library Advisory Commission approved carrying the 2020 board slate forward to July 2023, when new officers will be elected. The commission also reviewed reports on pandemic impacts, staffing changes, security incidents, and a potential library tax district change. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved carrying 2020 board slate forward to July 2023 (motion by Neil, second by Street)
• Placed January 2020 minutes on file by unanimous consent

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will hold public hearings and reviews on several development applications, including a proposed 385-unit apartment complex, a car wash, an annexation request, and a conceptual subdivision. They will also consider extensions for two previously approved conditional uses. The meeting is open to the public in person and virtually.

• Public hearing for College Road Apartments: two 6-story buildings, 385 units, at Railroad Avenue/Grove Street
• Continued review of Tidal Wave Auto Spa car wash at 245 N. Dupont Highway
• Annexation and rezoning request for 273 Acorn Lane (RS-1 to R-8)
• Conceptual subdivision plan for Ekaman Subdivision (6 lots) on Jefferson Terrace
• Extension requests for JJ's Learning Experience 2 day care and a warehouse at College Business Park

The Dover Planning Commission tabled the College Road Apartments site development plan (S-23-06) for 385 units until next month, pending resolution of right-of-way ownership disputes. The commission also approved a one-year extension for a child day care center, a warehouse building extension, and the Tidal Wave Auto Spa site plan. An annexation request for 273 Acorn Lane was recommended for approval.

• Tabled College Road Apartments (385 units) pending right-of-way outcome (6-2)
• Approved Tidal Wave Auto Spa site plan at 245 N. Dupont Highway (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved one-year extension for JJ's Learning Experience 2 day care (6-0)
• Approved one-year extension for College Business Park warehouse (7-0)
• Recommended approval of 273 Acorn Lane annexation/rezoning to City Council (8-0)
• Approved Ekaman Subdivision conceptual plan, denied sidewalk waiver (7-0)

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee meeting scheduled for March 14, 2023, has been cancelled. The next meeting is set for April 11, 2023. No agenda items were discussed or decided.

• Meeting cancelled for March 14, 2023
• Next meeting scheduled for April 11, 2023

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended awarding a $415,800 contract to Teal Construction for the West Street East Alley water main replacement, and accepted the 2023 Dover Integrated Resource Plan. It also recommended accepting cash-in-lieu for recreation at Dover Apartments at Leipsic Road and approved the recreation plan for College Road Apartments, with two dissenting votes. A resolution to participate in national opioid settlements was also recommended.

• Recommended awarding water main replacement contract to Teal Construction for $415,800 (unanimous)
• Recommended accepting 2023 Dover Integrated Resource Plan (unanimous)
• Recommended accepting cash-in-lieu amount of $17,718.31 for Dover Apartments at Leipsic Road recreation (unanimous)
• Recommended accepting Active Recreation Plan for College Road Apartments (carried, Rocha and Hare voting no)
• Recommended adopting Resolution No. 2023-02 to participate in national opioid settlements (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council convened a special meeting on March 13, 2023, to enter an executive session. The agenda indicates the session was called under Delaware law for strategy discussions involving legal advice regarding collective bargaining or pending or potential litigation. No specific public actions, contracts, or ordinances are listed on the agenda, as the details are reserved for the closed session.

• Executive session pursuant to 29 Del. C. §10004(b)(4) for strategy sessions involving legal advice on collective bargaining or litigation
• Meeting posted with less than seven days notice due to timing of information receipt

The City Council held a special meeting and entered executive session to discuss strategy regarding potential negotiations with the Delaware Thunder Hockey Team. After the session, the council voted unanimously to authorize the City Manager, city staff, and Mayor to engage in negotiations with the parties present. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with no other substantive decisions made.

• Authorized City Manager, staff, and Mayor to negotiate with Delaware Thunder Hockey Team (7-0)
• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recessed into executive session for strategy discussions (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council is meeting to consider consent agenda items including grant applications for police cameras and officer hiring, contract awards for hazard response and drainage improvements, and two annexation requests. They will also set dates for property assessment appeals and receive various committee reports and monthly departmental reports.

• Approve submission of $600,000 COPS grant for city-wide camera program
• Approve $375,000 COPS grant award for hiring three police officers
• Award contract to Miller Environmental Group for hazard response services
• Award contract to Gateway Construction, Inc. for Mirror Lake Drainage Basin Improvements for $553,015
• Annexation request for 273 Acorn Lane (AX-23-02) recommended for approval

The Dover City Council approved several consent agenda items, including a $600,000 Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant application for a city-wide camera program and a $375,000 COPS grant to hire three police officers. They also awarded contracts for hazard response services and Mirror Lake drainage basin improvements, and approved an annexation request for 273 Acorn Lane. The meeting included presentations from the Delaware Department of Labor and discussions on a potential community relations office downtown, but no formal action was taken on those topics.

• Approved submission of $600,000 COPS grant application for city-wide camera program (unanimous)
• Approved $375,000 COPS grant award to hire 3 police officers (unanimous)
• Awarded hazard response services contract to Miller Environmental Group (unanimous)
• Awarded Mirror Lake Drainage Basin Improvements contract to Gateway Construction, Inc. for $553,015 (unanimous)
• Approved annexation request for utility services at 273 Acorn Lane (unanimous)
• Deferred annexation request for Calpine Holdings, LLC parcels on White Oak Road until further notice (unanimous)
• Scheduled 2023 Property Assessment Appeals for June 5-9, 2023 (unanimous)
• Adopted consent agenda and monthly reports (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Special Police Athletic League (PAL) Committee meeting scheduled for March 9, 2023, at 6:00 PM was cancelled due to lack of quorum. The agenda contained only one item, strategic planning, and no decisions or discussions occurred.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of quorum
• Strategic planning was the sole listed agenda item

DDP Design Committee

The Dover Design Committee is holding its regular monthly meeting to discuss updates from Biggs and the Art League, as well as downtown banners. The agenda includes routine items like approval of minutes and public comment, with no major decisions or proposals listed.

• Biggs Update
• Art League Update
• Downtown Banners
• Approval of February 2023 minutes

City Council Meetings

This is a special council meeting that will immediately recess into executive session to discuss personnel matters, as permitted by Delaware law. No other business is listed on the agenda. The public can attend the open portion virtually or in person, but the personnel discussion will be closed.

• Executive session under 29 Del. C. §10004(b)(9) for personnel matters
• Potential action resulting from executive session

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on March 6, 2023, primarily to enter an executive session to discuss personnel matters. No formal decisions or actions were taken during the meeting, which adjourned after the session concluded.

• Adopted the meeting agenda unanimously
• Recessed into executive session for personnel discussion (unanimous)
• Took no action following executive session

City Council Meetings

This is a notice that Dover City Council members may attend the 1st District's Town Hall Meeting at Maple Dale Country Club. It is not a Council meeting, so no official action will be taken. The agenda is purely procedural.

• Town Hall Meeting at Maple Dale Country Club, 180 Maple Dale Circle
• Thursday, March 2, 2023, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
• Quorum of City Council may be present, but no official action

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Dover Development Advisory Committee is reviewing three applications: an annexation and rezoning request for a property on Acorn Lane, a site development plan for a 385-unit apartment complex near College Road, and a conceptual subdivision plan for six lots on Jefferson Terrace. The committee will provide technical review comments to the Planning Office.

• Annexation and rezoning of 0.611 acres at 273 Acorn Lane from RS-1 to R-8 (Ordinance #2023-02)
• Site plan for two 6-story apartment buildings with 385 units at Railroad Avenue/Grove Street, including parking waivers
• Conceptual subdivision plan for six lots (Ekaman Subdivision) on Jefferson Terrace, including cul-de-sac extension and waiver requests

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will review several items, including grant applications and awards for police cameras and hiring, a contract for hazard response services, and utility-related bids and annexations. The meeting also includes presentations and discussions on various topics, with some items requiring committee action.

• Approve submission of $600,000 COPS grant for city-wide camera program
• Approve $375,000 COPS grant for hiring 3 police officers
• Award hazard response services contract to Miller Environmental Group
• Award Mirror Lake Drainage Basin Improvements contract to Gateway Construction, Inc. for $553,015
• Annexation request for 273 Acorn Lane (AX-23-02) with utility services available

The Council Committee of the Whole met on February 28, 2023, and recommended approval of several items. These included a $600,000 COPS grant application for a city-wide camera program, a $375,000 COPS grant for hiring three police officers, a contract award to Miller Environmental Group for hazard response services, and a $553,015 contract to Gateway Construction for Mirror Lake Drainage Basin Improvements. The committee also recommended approval of an annexation request for 273 Acorn Lane and deferred another annexation request. No final decisions were made; all recommendations are subject to full council approval.

• Recommended approval of $600,000 COPS grant application for city-wide camera program (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of $375,000 COPS grant for hiring 3 police officers (unanimous)
• Recommended awarding hazard response services contract to Miller Environmental Group (unanimous)
• Recommended awarding $553,015 contract to Gateway Construction for Mirror Lake Drainage Basin Improvements (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of annexation for utility services at 273 Acorn Lane (unanimous)
• Deferred annexation request for Calpine Holdings parcels on White Oak Road (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will hold its regular meeting, primarily addressing routine items and reports. The main substantive item is a request to reschedule the public hearing and final reading of Proposed Ordinance #2023-01, which involves comprehensive plan amendments for two Calpine Holdings properties on White Oak Road. The council will also receive presentations and committee reports.

• Resolution No. 2023-01 - Ralph L. Taylor, Jr.
• Reschedule public hearing for Proposed Ordinance #2023-01 (Comprehensive Plan Amendments 2023) to April 10, 2023
• Review of Active Recreation Plan – Leander Lakes III Apartments at 2285 Forrest Avenue
• Downtown Dover Partnership presentation on next steps of Downtown Dover Master Plan
• Robbins Hose Company 2022 Annual Report

The Dover City Council unanimously adopted Resolution No. 2023-01 honoring former Councilman Ralph L. Taylor Jr. and accepted the 2022 Annual Report of the Robbins Hose Company. The Council also approved several recommendations from the Council Committee of the Whole, including authorizing staff to pursue a RAISE grant, develop a TIF resolution, and refer the Loockerman Street temporary changes to the Safety, Advisory, and Transportation Committee. The public hearing for Ordinance #2023-01 was rescheduled to April 10, 2023.

• Adopted Resolution No. 2023-01 honoring Ralph L. Taylor Jr. (unanimous)
• Accepted 2022 Annual Report of Robbins Hose Company (unanimous)
• Approved Committee recommendation to authorize staff to pursue RAISE grant (unanimous)
• Approved Committee recommendation to develop TIF resolution and coordinate with other entities (unanimous)
• Referred Loockerman Street temporary changes to Safety, Advisory, and Transportation Committee (unanimous)
• Referred Memorial Park idea to Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee (unanimous)
• Rescheduled public hearing for Ordinance #2023-01 to April 10, 2023 (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will hold public hearings and reviews on several site development applications, including a 200-unit apartment complex, a car wash, and an office building. The commission will also consider a request to extend approval for a Secure Storage master plan and amendments to the Comprehensive Plan related to potential annexation areas. One application, for TLC Childcare at 901 S. State Street, was withdrawn by the applicant.

• S-23-04 Leander Lakes III Apartments: 200 units, 450 parking spaces, 25 acres at 2285 Forrest Avenue
• S-23-05 Tidal Wave Auto Spa: 3,690 SF car wash at 245 N. Dupont Highway
• S-23-03 NeighborGood Partners: 6,226 SF office building at 223 W. Division Street
• S-21-03 Secure Storage: one-year extension request for master plan on Lafferty Lane
• MI-23-01 Comprehensive Plan Amendments for Calpine Holdings parcels on White Oak Road

The Dover Planning Commission voted 8-0 to recommend denial of Comprehensive Plan Amendments (MI-23-01) that would have designated two Calpine Holdings parcels on White Oak Road as Priority Annexation Areas and Public & Private Utilities, a step toward a solar farm. The commission also approved a one-year extension for the Secure Storage master plan, approved the NeighborGood Partners office building, approved the Leander Lakes III apartments, and deferred action on the Tidal Wave Auto Spa car wash pending water usage calculations.

• Recommended denial of MI-23-01 Comprehensive Plan Amendments for Calpine annexation (8-0)
• Approved one-year extension for S-21-03 Secure Storage master plan (8-0)
• Approved S-23-03 NeighborGood Partners office at 223 W. Division St. (8-0)
• Approved S-23-04 Leander Lakes III Apartments, 200 units (8-0)
• Deferred S-23-05 Tidal Wave Auto Spa pending water usage calculations (7-1)

DDP Economic Development and Restructuring Committee

The Economic Vitality Committee will meet to discuss business retention, including a REAP application from Otis Brooks for Tastee's Chicken & Sea Food Restaurant. The agenda also includes public comments and other business, with an executive session possible at the chair's discretion.

• REAP application: Otis Brooks, Tastee's Chicken & Sea Food Restaurant

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on February 16, 2023, and unanimously adopted the agenda. The council then recessed into executive session to discuss potential litigation and personnel matters, but no action was taken. The meeting adjourned without any substantive decisions.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recessed into executive session for litigation and personnel discussions (unanimous)
• No action taken after executive session

Historic District Commission

The City of Dover Historic District Commission has cancelled its meeting scheduled for Thursday, February 16, 2023, at 3:30 PM. The cancellation is due to a lack of agenda items. The next scheduled meeting will be held on March 16, 2023.

• Meeting cancellation notice issued for Feb 16, 2023
• Next meeting scheduled for March 16, 2023

Board of Adjustment

The Dover Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual and in-person meeting to consider one variance application (V-23-01) from Horizon Property Investments, LLC for properties on Kerbin Street. The board will also approve minutes from a prior meeting and honor a departing member. Public participation is available via WebEx or phone.

• Variance request V-23-01 for 519, 527, 533, and 533A Kerbin Street to reduce minimum lot width from 70 feet to as low as 62.94 feet and increase lot coverage from 35% to 44% at 533 Kerbin Street
• Subsequent minor subdivision of the parcel into three lots
• Resolution honoring William Hufnal's service to the Board
• Approval of minutes from October 20, 2021

The Dover Board of Adjustment unanimously approved variance application V-23-01, allowing Horizon Property Investments to reduce minimum lot widths and increase lot coverage on three parcels on Kerbin Street, enabling a minor subdivision into three separate lots. The board also approved the agenda and the October 20, 2021 minutes, and adopted a resolution honoring former member William Hufnal.

• Approved variance V-23-01 for 519, 527, 533 Kerbin St (5-0)
• Approved agenda as submitted (5-0)
• Approved October 20, 2021 minutes with corrections (3-0, Senato abstained)
• Adopted resolution honoring William Hufnal's service

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee is scheduled to review a presentation on the West End Neighborhood House workforce development program and the Downtown Dover Master Plan Update. The agenda consists primarily of informational items and procedural motions, with no specific decisions, contracts, or ordinances listed for approval.

• Presentation on West End Neighborhood House Education & Employment Center Workforce Development
• Review of Downtown Dover Master Plan Update (approx. 250 pages)
• Adoption of minutes from the January 10, 2023 meeting

The Economic Development Committee meeting on February 14, 2023, was primarily informational, featuring presentations from West End Neighborhood House on workforce readiness and environmental training programs, and from the Downtown Dover Partnership on the 'Capital City 2030' master plan. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the committee approved the agenda and minutes as presented. Members discussed potential collaboration and next steps, including a public presentation of the master plan on March 22.

• Approved agenda and minutes as presented (motion by Councilman Anderson, seconded by City Manager Hugg and Mary Ellen Gray)
• Heard presentation from West End Neighborhood House on workforce readiness and environmental training programs
• Heard presentation from Downtown Dover Partnership on 'Capital City 2030' master plan
• Discussed potential collaboration with West End Neighborhood House and local organizations
• Noted next meeting date of March 14, 2023

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole met on February 14, 2023, and took several advisory actions. The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee unanimously recommended accepting the revised Active Recreation Plan for Leander Lakes III Apartments at 2285 Forrest Avenue. The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee unanimously recommended several steps related to the Downtown Dover Master Plan, including referring Memorial Park to the Parks Committee, authorizing staff to develop a TIF resolution, pursuing a RAISE grant, reviewing Loockerman Street changes, and reporting on conduit bonds. No final ordinances or contracts were approved; all actions were recommendations to the full Council.

• Recommended accepting revised Active Recreation Plan for Leander Lakes III Apartments (unanimous)
• Referred Memorial Park master plan to Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee (unanimous)
• Recommended authorizing staff to develop TIF resolution and coordinate with other entities (unanimous)
• Recommended pursuing RAISE grant, to be brought back by Feb 27, 2023 (unanimous)
• Referred Loockerman Street temporary changes to Safety, Advisory, and Transportation Committee (unanimous)
• Recommended staff report in 30 days on conduit bonds (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover Police Athletic League board approved a budget not to exceed $2,500 for each of three 2023 events: Easter Egg Hunt, Youth Academy, and Football Combine. The board also discussed program changes, including a modified East Dover Elementary program and a CPR class for middle school students, but took no formal votes on those items. A special strategic planning meeting is scheduled for March.

• Approved budget not to exceed $2,500 for each of three PAL events (unanimous)
• Decided 'A Day In Their Boots' registration will be first come, first serve on the morning of the program
• Scheduled a special March meeting for strategic planning on PAL's youth impact

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will hold first readings on two ordinances to annex and rezone land on White Oak Road from Kent County to City of Dover zoning, including a 144.83-acre parcel and a 104.06-acre parcel, both proposed for IPM-2 Industrial Park Manufacturing. The council will also select polling places for the 2023 municipal election and receive annual reports from several departments and organizations.

• First reading of Ordinance #2023-02: Rezone 144.83 acres (Parcel A) and 104.06 acres (Parcel B) on White Oak Road to IPM-2, with public hearing set for April 10, 2023
• First reading of Ordinance #2023-03: Rezone 0.611 acres at 273 Acorn Lane from RS-1 to R-8
• Selection of Elks Lodge #1903, 200 Saulsbury Road, as polling place for 1st and 2nd Districts and Mayor in 2023 election
• Waiver request for East Carolina Supply Warehouse at 631 Ridgely Street to create a lot without street frontage
• Confirmation of police pension election for retired Lieutenant Timothy Mullaney, Sr. for a three-year term

The Dover City Council approved $499,610.82 in ARPA funds for sub-grantees, selected the Elks Lodge as the 2023 polling place, and referred two annexation/rezoning requests for White Oak Road and Acorn Lane. The council also accepted annual reports from the Downtown Dover Partnership and Planning Department, and deferred the Robbins Hose Company report.

• Approved $499,610.82 in ARPA funds to sub-grantees (unanimous)
• Selected Elks Lodge #1903 as polling place for 1st, 2nd, and Mayor (6-1, Anderson opposed)
• Referred annexation/rezoning for two Calpine Holdings parcels on White Oak Road to committees and set public hearing for April 10
• Referred annexation/rezoning for 273 Acorn Lane to committees and set public hearing for April 10
• Accepted 2022 Annual Report from Downtown Dover Partnership (unanimous)
• Accepted 2022 Annual Report from Planning and Community Development (unanimous)
• Deferred Robbins Hose Company 2022 Annual Report to February 27 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including monthly reports (unanimous)

DDP Merchant Committee

The Dover Development Partnership Merchant Committee is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving December minutes, receiving public comments, and planning promotions and events. Key topics include the Downtown Gift Cards Dover program, a February merchant window contest, the St. Patrick's Day parade, and a merchant mixer. The committee will also receive updates on the DDP Master Plan and the Downtown Dover App. The agenda is largely procedural and planning-focused, with no major financial decisions or ordinances listed.

• Downtown Gift Cards Dover program update
• Capital Key Update (February offer)
• Merchant Window Contest (February)
• Merchant Mixer on February 20 at La Baguette
• DDP Master Plan Update

Home Events

The joint pension and OPEB boards unanimously approved quarterly performance reviews for the General Employee, Police, and OPEB plans. They also voted to add a study and presentation on a possible COLA increase for the General Employees' Pension Plan to the next meeting.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes of November 10, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted Quarterly Performance Review for General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Quarterly Performance Review for Police Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Quarterly Performance Review for OPEB Plan (unanimous)
• Added COLA study and presentation to next meeting agenda (unanimous)

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Dover Development Advisory Committee (DAC) will meet on February 8, 2023, to review and comment on four development applications that will go before the Planning Commission on February 21, 2023. The agenda includes a site plan for a 200-unit apartment complex, a car wash, an office building, and comprehensive plan amendments for potential annexation. One application for a large family daycare was withdrawn. The meeting is open to the public but does not accept public comment.

• S-23-03: NeighborGood Partners office building at 223 W. Division Street, 6,226 SF, C-1A zone, waiver for upright curbing
• S-23-04: Leander Lakes III Apartments, 200 units in 8 three-story buildings plus one 2-story building, 450 parking spaces, on 25 acres at 2285 Forrest Ave
• S-23-05: Tidal Wave Auto Spa, 3,690 SF car wash with 24 vacuum spaces at 245 N. Dupont Highway, lot consolidation
• MI-23-01: Comprehensive Plan amendments for two Calpine Holdings parcels on White Oak Road, totaling 248.89 acres, to designate as Priority Annexation Area and Public & Private Utilities
• C-23-01: TLC Childcare LLC at 901 S State Street withdrawn on February 3, 2023

Election Board

The Dover Election Board is meeting to discuss and select polling places for the 2023 Regular Municipal Election. The agenda includes only this item, along with routine call to order and agenda adoption. The meeting is open to the public via WebEx.

• Selection of polling places for the 2023 Regular Municipal Election

The Election Board unanimously approved a single polling place at the Elks Lodge, 200 Saulsbury Road, for the 2023 City of Dover Municipal Election. The board also set the election audit for April 19, 2023, the day after the election. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved one polling place at the Elks Lodge, 200 Saulsbury Road (unanimous)
• Set election audit for April 19, 2023 (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The City Council of Dover, Delaware, held a special meeting on February 1, 2023, primarily in executive session. The agenda notes that the meeting was posted with less than seven days' notice due to the timing of information receipt. The sole substantive item was an update on potential litigation, which was discussed in closed session pursuant to state law regarding legal advice and bargaining positions.

• Executive session held to discuss an update on potential litigation
• Agenda posted with less than seven days' notice

The special meeting was largely procedural, with the only substantive action being the unanimous decision to strike proposed ordinance 2022-26 following an executive session discussion of potential litigation. No other decisions were made.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recessed into executive session for legal strategy (unanimous)
• Struck proposed ordinance 2022-26 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting

City Council Meetings

The City Council held a special meeting to consider a single item: a budget reallocation. Staff recommended approving the move of funds from vehicle #778 to purchase a replacement for vehicle #749. The agenda was posted with less than seven days' notice due to the timing of the information receipt.

• Approval of budget reallocation for #778 to purchase replacement for #749

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on January 30, 2023, and approved a budget reallocation to purchase a replacement truck for vehicle #749. The reallocation uses leftover funds from other vehicle budgets, totaling $123,333, to cover the increased cost of the new truck, which rose from $214,400 to $286,000. The motion was approved unanimously, with Councilman Hare absent.

• Approved budget reallocation for #778 to purchase replacement for #749 (unanimous, Hare absent)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council is holding a special meeting to address two constituent concerns: language in the loitering ordinance and safety issues related to Irish Mikes Pub. The agenda includes only these two discussion items and adjournment, with no votes or formal actions listed.

• Constituent's loitering ordinance language concerns
• Constituent's safety concerns regarding Irish Mikes Pub

The Dover City Council held a special meeting to hear public comment on a proposed loitering ordinance. No formal action or vote was taken on the ordinance. The meeting was dedicated to discussing the ordinance's language, its potential impact on the homeless population, and concerns about downtown safety.

• No vote taken on proposed loitering ordinance
• Heard public comment on loitering ordinance and downtown safety
• Discussed concerns about Irish Mike's Pub, no action taken

Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals

The Dover Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals will hold a public meeting to consider two appeals of vacant-building registration fees. The board will hear appeals from property owners at 406 Governors Avenue and 293 Pine Valley Road regarding fees under Chapter 22, Article XII, Section 22-403. Public comments are welcome, and the meeting will be held virtually.

• Appeal of registration fee for 406 Governors Avenue (John & Laura Kelly)
• Appeal of registration fee for 293 Pine Valley Road (Stephen Cindrich)

The board voted 3-0 to uphold the Building Inspector's decision that 34 N. Governors Avenue is in its second year vacant, requiring the registration fee. For 293 Pine Valley Road, the board tabled the appeal pending the owner filing building permit forms and receiving a fee exemption, which the code enforcement officer agreed to grant.

• Upheld vacant building declaration for 34 N. Governors Avenue (3-0)
• Tabled appeal for 293 Pine Valley Road pending permit forms and exemption (3-0)

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board is holding a special meeting to receive an update on the Master Plan from Mosaic Development Partners. The agenda notes that board action is not required, indicating this is an informational session. Public comment will be heard before adjournment.

• Master Plan update by Mosaic Development Partners
• Public comment period

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will receive briefings and consider two action items: a request to waive subdivision lot frontage requirements for a warehouse at 631 Ridgely Street, and a staff recommendation to award $499,610.82 in ARPA funds to sub-grantees for COVID-19 response projects. Other agenda items are informational presentations with no action required.

• Waiver request to create a lot without public street frontage for East Carolina Supply Warehouse at 631 Ridgely Street (28.65 acres, split into two parcels)
• Staff recommendation to award $499,610.82 in ARPA funds to sub-grantees for COVID-19 response projects
• Quarterly briefing on Dover/Kent County MPO projects
• Presentation by Mid-Atlantic Justice Coalition
• Update from IBEW on membership priorities

The Council Committee of the Whole met on January 24, 2023, and took action on several items. The committee recommended approval of $499,610.82 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to sub-grantees for COVID-19 response projects, as recommended by staff. It also recommended approval of a subdivision waiver for a warehouse at 631 Ridgely Street, allowing a lot without frontage on a public street. Other items were informational only, including presentations from the Dover/Kent County MPO, the Mid-Atlantic Justice Coalition, and the IBEW.

• Recommended awarding $499,610.82 in ARPA funds to sub-grantees (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of subdivision waiver for lot without public street frontage at 631 Ridgely Street (unanimous)
• Adopted the agenda (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will vote on consent agenda items including two construction contracts, a change order, and a policy update, plus a $3 million community reinvestment fund allocation and a first reading of a comprehensive plan amendment for annexation areas. Public hearings are scheduled for February and March.

• Award $1,037,595.25 street and alley program contract to Sam's Construction, LLC
• Award $148,000 Williams Park storm pipe replacement to Gateway Construction, Inc.
• Approve $19,500 change order for Well #9 from AECOM, Inc.
• Accept $3M from Community Reinvestment Fund and approve project allocation plan
• First reading of Ordinance #2023-01 to amend comprehensive plan for annexation of Calpine Holdings properties on White Oak Road

The Dover City Council approved several contracts and funding allocations, including a $1,037,595.25 street and alley paving contract with Sam's Construction, a $148,000 storm pipe replacement with Gateway Construction, and a $3 million Community Reinvestment Fund allocation for infrastructure projects. The council also approved amendments to the Energy Commodity Risk Management policy, a change order for Well #9, and set a public hearing for a comprehensive plan amendment. All votes were unanimous with Councilman Sudler absent.

• Approved $1,037,595.25 contract to Sam's Construction for FY 2023 Street and Alley Program (unanimous)
• Approved $148,000 contract to Gateway Construction for Williams Park Storm Pipe Replacement (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to Energy Commodity Risk Management policy (unanimous)
• Approved $3M Community Reinvestment Fund allocation for water main, sewer, and street projects (unanimous)
• Approved $19,500 change order to AECOM for Well #9 (unanimous)
• Referred comprehensive plan amendment to Planning Commission and set public hearing for March 13, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Theresa L. Whalen to Dover Public Library Commission (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of prior meetings and consent agenda (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The Dover Historic District Commission approved an Architectural Review Certification for parking lot reconfiguration and improvements at 34 The Green, with a 3-0 vote and one abstention due to a conflict of interest. The commission also discussed the potential removal of a portion of Loockerman Street from the Historic District, but took no action. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.

• Approved HI-23-01 Architectural Review Certification for parking lot improvements at 34 The Green (3-0, Mason abstained)
• Approved agenda as presented (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

City Council Meetings

Dover City Council members are invited to attend a special meeting of the Downtown Dover Partnership Board of Directors. The meeting is scheduled for January 18, 2023, at 8:30 a.m. at 35 Loockerman Plaza. The notice clarifies that this is not a meeting of the City Council, so no official action will be taken.

• Downtown Dover Partnership Board of Directors Special Meeting
• Location: 35 Loockerman Plaza, Dover, DE
• Time: 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 18, 2023
• No official City Council action will be taken

Board of Adjustment

The Dover Board of Adjustment has cancelled its regular meeting scheduled for January 18, 2023. The next meeting is set for February 15, 2023. No items were discussed or decided.

• Meeting cancelled
• Next meeting: February 15, 2023

Municipal

The Silver Lake Commission is meeting to hear a water/wastewater presentation and discuss several lake-related issues, including tree damage from cormorants, a request to trap snapping turtles, and a request to allow residential irrigation from Silver Lake. The commission will also receive updates on park projects and maintenance. The agenda is subject to change per Delaware law.

• Water/wastewater presentation by Jason Lyon
• Report on tree devastation from cormorant population and city tree removal requirements along State Street Extended
• Request to trap snapping turtles
• Request to allow residential irrigation sourcing Silver Lake
• Update on Silver Lake Park Projects & Maintenance Crew

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board held a special meeting on January 18, 2023, at the Dover Public Library. The primary agenda item was a review of a master plan update submitted by Mosaic Development Partners. The meeting also included standard procedural items and a public comment period.

• Review of master plan update by Mosaic Development Partners

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and review a site development plan for a new warehouse on Ridgely Street, and will consider a one-year extension for a previously approved conditional use site plan for Cassidy Commons. The meeting also includes routine items like minutes approval and updates from city staff.

• Request for one-year extension of approval for C-21-01 Cassidy Commons at 101-1001 Cassidy Drive (six additional manufacturing/warehousing buildings)
• Public hearing for S-23-01 East Carolina Supply Warehouse at 631 Ridgely Street (42,400 SF warehouse, subdivision into two parcels)
• Waiver requests for partial elimination of curbing, reduction of parking, and subdivision waiver for lot without street frontage
• Summary of Applications for 2022 (report)
• Training opportunities from University of Delaware (Planning 101 and Land-Use Law)

The Dover Planning Commission approved a one-year extension for the Cassidy Commons conditional use site plan (C-21-01) and approved the East Carolina Supply Warehouse site development and minor subdivision plan (S-23-01) at 631 Ridgely Street, including waivers for parking reduction and lot frontage. Both motions passed unanimously 8-0. The meeting also included approval of the agenda and prior minutes, and a staff report on 2022 application statistics.

• Approved one-year extension for Cassidy Commons conditional use site plan (C-21-01) (8-0)
• Approved East Carolina Supply Warehouse site development and minor subdivision plan (S-23-01) (8-0)
• Approved parking reduction waiver for S-23-01 (8-0)
• Approved subdivision waiver to create lot without frontage on public street for S-23-01 (8-0)
• Approved revised agenda (8-0)
• Approved December 19, 2022 meeting minutes (8-0)

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee heard a presentation from Donny Legans, owner of Rail Haus Beer Garden, about his plans for the business. No formal decisions or votes were taken during the meeting; it was an informational session. The committee also approved the meeting agenda and prior minutes.

• Approved meeting agenda and minutes as presented
• Heard presentation from Rail Haus Beer Garden owner Donny Legans (informational)

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will review bids for street and alley work and storm pipe replacement, discuss a roundabout analysis, and consider the annual financial report. Public comments are welcome on any item.

• Award contract for FY 2023 Street and Alley Program to Sam's Construction, LLC for $1,037,595.25
• Award contract for Williams Park Storm Pipe Replacement to Gateway Construction, Inc. for $148,000
• Review and approve amendments to Energy Commodity Risk Management policy
• Receive public input on Dover Roundabout Analysis for Governors Boulevard, Ross Street, and Bradford Street
• Accept draft Annual Comprehensive Financial Report

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended awarding two construction contracts: $1,037,595.25 to Sam's Construction for the FY 2023 Street and Alley Program, and $148,000 to Gateway Construction for the Williams Park Storm Pipe Replacement. They also approved amendments to the Energy Commodity Risk Management policy, increasing the purchasing limit to $40 million, and recommended moving forward with public input on traffic calming options for Governors Boulevard, Ross Street, and Bradford Street, focusing on Community Transportation Fund (CTF) funded options. The committee accepted the draft Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and the Dover Public Library's rebranding report.

• Recommended awarding $1,037,595.25 street and alley contract to Sam's Construction (unanimous)
• Recommended awarding $148,000 storm pipe replacement contract to Gateway Construction (unanimous)
• Recommended approving amendments to Energy Commodity Risk Management policy, raising limit to $40M (unanimous)
• Recommended receiving public input on CTF-funded traffic calming options for Governors Blvd/Ross/Bradford (unanimous)
• Recommended acceptance of draft Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (unanimous)
• Accepted Dover Public Library rebranding report (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on annexing and rezoning three parcels on West Denneys Road, changing them from Kent County zoning to City of Dover RM-2 (Medium Density Residence Zone), with two parcels partially in the Source Water Protection Overlay Zone. The council will also give final reading to Ordinance #2022-21, which amends the industrial park manufacturing zone (IPM2) for the Business and Technology Center. Consent agenda items include adoption of minutes and monthly reports from city officials.

• Public hearing and final adoption of rezoning Ordinance #2022-25 for three parcels on West Denneys Road (57 Rocky Road, 4085 West Denneys Road, and an unaddressed parcel)
• Annexation Resolution No. 2022-08 for the same three parcels
• Final reading of Ordinance #2022-21 amending IPM2 zone regulations for the Business and Technology Center
• Certificate of Congratulations for Dover High School Football Team
• Consent agenda: adoption of December 12, 2022 minutes and November 2022 monthly reports

The Dover City Council adopted Ordinance #2022-21, amending the IPM2 zoning district to allow uses like truck terminals, indoor recreation, and craft distilleries. It also approved Resolution No. 2022-08 and Ordinance #2022-25, annexing three parcels on West Denneys Road and rezoning them to RM-2 (Medium Density Residence Zone) for residential development, despite public concerns about traffic and flooding. All votes were unanimous with Councilman Sudler absent.

• Adopted Ordinance #2022-21 amending IPM2 zoning text (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2022-08 annexing three parcels on West Denneys Road (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #2022-25 rezoning three parcels to RM-2 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda and monthly reports (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of December 12, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Development Advisory Committee is reviewing a Site Development Plan and Minor Subdivision Plan for a property at 631 Ridgely Street. The application proposes subdividing a 28.65-acre parcel into two lots to allow for the construction of a 42,400-square-foot warehouse. This review is a preliminary step before the Planning Commission considers the application on January 17, 2023.

• Review of Site Development Plan and Minor Subdivision Plan for 631 Ridgely Street
• Proposal to subdivide 28.65-acre parcel into a 4.928-acre lot and a 23.726-acre residual parcel
• Construction of a 42,400-square-foot warehouse on the new southern parcel
• Waiver requests for partial elimination of curbing, reduced parking, and lot frontage
• Performance Standards Review for the East Carolina Supply Warehouse project