Dover public meetings in 2020
76 substantive meetings from 2020, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole recommended approval for staff to finalize and implement the Emergency COVID-19 Relief Economic Retention Electric Fund, with allocations starting January 12, 2021. The program will provide up to $5,000 in utility bill credits to qualifying small businesses. The committee also recommended acceptance of a cash-in-lieu donation for active recreation area at Bay Pointe Apartments. The purchase of Sourcewell trucks was deferred to a later date.
- Recommended approval of Emergency COVID-19 Relief Economic Retention Electric Fund (unanimous)
- Recommended acceptance of $30,084 cash-in-lieu for active recreation area at Bay Pointe Apartments (unanimous)
- Deferred purchase of Sourcewell trucks to a future Utility Committee meeting (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council denied a rezoning request for 630 West Division Street that would have allowed a homeless shelter, with a 4-3 vote against (one abstention). The council also approved a rezoning for two properties on North New Street, adopted a short-term rental ordinance (later vetoed by the mayor), and accepted the resignation of Councilman Scott Cole with a resolution of appreciation.
- Denied rezoning at 630 W. Division St. for homeless shelter (4-3, Lindell abstaining)
- Approved rezoning at 35 & 39 N. New St. from RG-3 to RG-1 (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance #2020-05 regulating short-term rentals (unanimous, later vetoed by mayor)
- Adopted Resolution #2020-14 honoring former Councilman Scott Cole (unanimous)
- Declared Christmas Eve 2020 a city holiday (unanimous)
- Referred annexation/rezoning of 228 Mifflin Rd. to committees (unanimous)
- Accepted 2021 Robbins Hose Company fire line officers (unanimous)
- Approved $143,501 water master plan contract (unanimous)
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole recommended awarding a $143,501 contract to Whitman, Requardt & Associates for updating the City of Dover Water Master Plan (RFP #21-0013WW). They also recommended awarding a $362,952 contract to Service Unlimited for chiller, cooling tower, and pumps replacement at the Dover Police Department. A proposed COVID-19 relief electric fund was deferred to the December 15, 2020 committee meeting.
- Recommended awarding $143,501 water master plan contract to Whitman, Requardt & Associates (unanimous)
- Recommended awarding $362,952 police department chiller/cooling tower/pumps replacement to Service Unlimited (unanimous)
- Deferred COVID-19 relief electric fund discussion to December 15, 2020 (unanimous)
Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals
The Dover Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals voted to forgive all fines issued to Joshua Fontello for a property at 725 Carol Street, citing lack of communication and that he did not receive prior notices. The board also voted to uphold a $100 fine against James Sloven for 8 South New Street but suspend a second $100 fine until January 1, 2021, contingent on him providing proof of work done. The meeting was held by video conference on November 23, 2020.
- Forgave fines for 725 Carol Street (Joshua Fontello) unanimously
- Upheld first $100 fine for 8 South New Street (James Sloven)
- Suspended second $100 fine for 8 South New Street until Jan 1, 2021, contingent on proof of work
- Adopted meeting agenda unanimously
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council approved several contracts and agreements, including a $197,118 SCADA equipment upgrade contract, a $17,523 engineering design contract for the College Road Pump Station, a $39,000 change order for construction support services, and a $122,654.22 police station computer wiring upgrade contract. The council also endorsed revisions to the Reciprocal Borrowing Agreement. All votes were unanimous.
- Awarded SCADA Equipment Technology Upgrade contract to Freemire & Associates, Inc. for $197,118 (unanimous)
- Awarded College Road Pump Station Upgrade Engineering Design contract to Remington & Vernick Engineers for $17,523 (unanimous)
- Approved $39,000 change order for Duffield Associates construction support services (unanimous)
- Approved police station computer wiring upgrade contract to Assurance Media, LLC for $122,654.22 (unanimous)
- Endorsed revisions to the Reciprocal Borrowing Agreement (unanimous)
DDP Parking Committee
The Dover Parking Working Group met on January 29, 2020, and discussed updates on parking initiatives. They received two inquiries for the RFI, including one from ParkMobile and an offer of free engineering assistance. The group reviewed parking systems in Rehoboth, Lewes, and DE Turf, and discussed replacing a broken parking panel with an app. No formal decisions were made; the next meeting is scheduled for March 18 to review RFI responses.
- Approved meeting agenda unanimously
- Received two RFI inquiries (ParkMobile, Mead Hunt)
- Discussed replacing broken Bradford St. panel with app-based payment
- Reviewed parking systems in Rehoboth, Lewes, and DE Turf
- Scheduled next meeting for March 18 to review RFI responses
Home Events
The joint pension boards met and adopted the August 11, 2020 joint meeting minutes as amended, and the September 10, 2020 special General Employee Pension Plan Board minutes. They accepted the quarterly performance reviews for the General Employee Pension Plan and the OPEB Plan, but deferred acceptance of the Police Pension Plan review due to lack of quorum. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Adopted August 11, 2020 joint meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)
- Adopted September 10, 2020 special General Employee Pension Plan Board minutes (unanimous)
- Accepted Q3 2020 performance review for General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
- Deferred Q3 2020 performance review for Police Pension Plan (lack of quorum)
- Accepted Q3 2020 performance review for OPEB Plan (unanimous)
Economic Development Committee
The Dover Economic Development Committee met on November 10, 2020, but took no formal votes. The meeting featured updates from the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce, Kent Economic Partnership, and the City of Dover Planning Department, covering business retention, economic development initiatives, and a major industrial project. The committee adopted the agenda and adjourned unanimously.
- Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole, meeting by video conference, recommended awarding a $197,118 contract to Freemire & Associates for a SCADA equipment technology upgrade, and a $17,523 contract to Remington & Vernick Engineers for engineering design support for the College Road Pump Station upgrade. The committee also recommended a $39,000 change order to Duffield Associates for construction support services at the Water Treatment Plant, and endorsed proposed revisions to the Reciprocal Borrowing Agreement. All recommendations were unanimous and will go to the full council for final action.
- Recommended awarding SCADA upgrade contract to Freemire & Associates, Inc. for $197,118 (unanimous)
- Recommended awarding College Road Pump Station engineering design contract to Remington & Vernick Engineers for $17,523 (unanimous)
- Recommended approving $39,000 change order to Duffield Associates for Water Treatment Plant construction support (unanimous)
- Endorsed proposed revisions to the Reciprocal Borrowing Agreement (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council unanimously adopted Ordinance #2020-13, establishing uniform standards for wireless communications facilities, including small cells, throughout the city. The council also approved a $177,900 budget amendment for the Community Policing Unit and authorized a contract with BerryDunn for ERP project management. Additionally, Ordinance #2020-14, covering project carry-forward budget balances, was adopted.
- Adopted Ordinance #2020-13, wireless communications facility regulations (unanimous)
- Approved $177,900 budget amendment for Community Policing Unit (unanimous)
- Authorized BerryDunn ERP project management contract (unanimous, Taylor no in committee)
- Adopted Ordinance #2020-14, project carry-forward budget balances (unanimous)
- Approved revised 2020 CTP project prioritization (unanimous)
- Appointed Dr. Shanita A. Powell to MPO Public Advisory Committee (unanimous)
- Accepted September 2020 monthly reports and quarterly CIP report (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council held a special meeting on November 5, 2020, and went into executive session to discuss personnel matters. Following the session, they unanimously approved the appointment of Matthew Harline as Acting City Manager, effective October 15, 2020, with a 5% pay increase until a new City Manager is hired. The appointment was made due to the retirement of Donna S. Mitchell.
- Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
- Recessed into executive session for personnel discussion (unanimous)
- Appointed Matthew Harline as Acting City Manager with 5% pay increase (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole approved a $177,900 budget amendment for the Community Policing Unit and recommended authorizing a contract with BerryDunn for ERP project management, with one dissenting vote. The committee also approved the revised 2020 State Capital Transportation Program project prioritization.
- Approved $177,900 budget amendment for Community Policing Unit (unanimous)
- Recommended authorization for BerryDunn ERP project management contract (carried, Taylor voting no)
- Approved revised 2020 State Capital Transportation Program prioritization (unanimous)
Board of Adjustment
The Dover Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a variance for Verizon Wireless to build a 105-ft telecommunications monopole at 801 Otis Drive, exceeding the 30-ft height limit. The board cited federal agency approvals and legal precedent. The meeting also approved the agenda and prior minutes.
- Approved variance V-20-05 for 105-ft Verizon monopole at 801 Otis Drive (4-0)
- Approved meeting agenda as submitted (4-0)
- Approved June 17, 2020 meeting minutes with correction (4-0)
Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals
The Dover Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals upheld two property maintenance citations. The first citation, for 125 Greentree Drive, required the owner to maintain grass up to the curb line. The second, for 625 Lakewood Place, involved fines for a vehicle parked in grass and failure to correct the violation. Both decisions were unanimous.
- Upheld citation for 125 Greentree Drive requiring owner to maintain grass to curb line (unanimous)
- Upheld citations for 625 Lakewood Place for parking in grass and failure to correct violation (unanimous)
DDP Design Committee
The Design Committee approved the September 2020 minutes unanimously. They discussed updates on facade projects, with no votes taken. Plans were set for a mural unveiling on November 6 and a holiday window contest with the theme 'Holiday Wishes'.
- Approved September 2020 minutes (unanimous)
- Set mural unveiling for November 6 at 4pm
- Adopted 'Holiday Wishes' as holiday window theme
- Scheduled People's Choice voting for window contest Dec 5-19
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole recommended the Dover Public Library partially reopen the week of November 1st, with additional cleaning protocols, no-contact entry, and calibrated no-touch thermometer readings for all entrants. The motion passed 7-3, with one abstention. The committee also recommended approval of $8,420,300 in FY2021 budget amendments and adoption of Ordinance #2020-14, and tabled the Pay for Performance Evaluation System until a new City Manager is hired.
- Recommended partial library reopening week of Nov 1 with cleaning protocols, no-contact entry, and thermometer checks (7-3, 1 abstention)
- Recommended approval of $8,420,300 FY2021 budget amendments and Ordinance #2020-14
- Tabled Pay for Performance Evaluation System until new City Manager hired (unanimous)
- Recommended moving forward with Downtown Dover Partnership parking MOU pending Ordinance #2020-12 approval (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of FY2020 Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant with Smyrna PD & Kent County (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of FY2021 Fund to Combat Violent Crime Grant and intended purchases (unanimous)
- Recommended acceptance of Major Parks Master Plans progress report (carried, 1 no vote)
- Discussed but took no action on Schutte Park gate/security recommendations
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council held a regular meeting on October 12, 2020, via video conference. The council adopted Ordinance #2020-11, which amends the city code regarding the fire department, including officer ranks, appointments, elections, and duties. The council also approved several resolutions and ordinances, including a drinking water matching planning grant application and amendments to parking and lodginghouse regulations. The meeting included presentations on COVID-19 safety, a social professional/law enforcement collaborative, and body cameras, but no formal decisions were made on these topics.
- Adopted Ordinance #2020-11 amending fire department code (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2020-12 for Drinking Water Matching Planning Grant application (unanimous)
- Approved first reading of Ordinance #2020-12 amending parking regulations (unanimous)
- Approved first reading of Ordinance #2020-05 amending lodginghouse and rental dwelling regulations (unanimous)
- Referred CTP project prioritization back to committee for review (unanimous)
- Approved annual review of investment policy with no changes (unanimous)
- Approved appointments to various boards and commissions (unanimous)
- Accepted monthly reports for August 2020 (unanimous)
DDP Merchant Committee
The committee unanimously approved the September minutes and decided to eliminate the People's Choice award for the Merchant Window Contest. They also discussed updates on Unlock the Block, First Friday events, tourism planning, and community policing. No other formal decisions were made.
- Approved September minutes (unanimous)
- Eliminated People's Choice award for Merchant Window Contest
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole recommended approval of Ordinance #2020-05, which amends regulations for lodginghouses and rental dwellings, and confirmed the continuation of the 2019 State Capital Transportation Program (CTP) project prioritization. The committee also recommended approval of a resolution to apply for a Drinking Water Matching Planning Grant and approved the annual investment policy with no changes. All recommendations were made unanimously and will go to the full City Council for final action.
- Recommended adoption of Ordinance #2020-05 (short-term rentals) (unanimous)
- Confirmed continuation of 2019 CTP project prioritization (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of Resolution 2020-12 for Drinking Water Matching Planning Grant (unanimous)
- Approved annual investment policy with no changes (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council held a special meeting and unanimously approved the AFSCME labor contract after an executive session. They also authorized the City Manager to execute a property purchase agreement, which must be completed by October 15, 2020. Both actions were taken unanimously.
- Approved AFSCME labor contract (unanimous)
- Authorized City Manager to execute property purchase agreement (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council approved Resolution No. 2020-11, authorizing the Robbins Hose Company No. 1 to issue up to $757,900 in bonds for a new fire apparatus. The council also approved a model license agreement for small wireless facilities on city poles, amended the purchasing policy, and advanced several ordinances to first reading.
- Approved Resolution No. 2020-11 authorizing $757,900 in bonds for a new fire pumper/rescue (unanimous)
- Approved Model Master License Agreement for small wireless facilities on city poles (unanimous)
- Approved amendments to the Purchasing Policy (unanimous)
- Recommended adoption of Ordinance #2020-11 (fire department changes) with gender-neutral language and restored appeal process (unanimous)
- Approved restoration of Dover Human Relations Commission intake form and non-binding mediation (unanimous)
- Approved reappointments to Dover Human Relations Commission and other boards (unanimous)
- Deferred library reopening plan until clear guidelines and protocols are in place (unanimous)
- Set public hearing for zoning ordinance #2020-13 on November 9, 2020 (unanimous)
DDP Merchant Committee
The committee approved the August minutes unanimously and discussed updates on the Capital Key campaign, the Merchant Window Contest, and upcoming events. No formal policy decisions were made; actions were limited to scheduling and coordination.
- Approved August minutes (unanimous)
- Set next meeting for October 8
- Agreed to reimburse individuals for approved ecommerce/webinar courses
- Scheduled follow-up meeting on tourism strategy
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole forwarded the proposed Wireless Communications Facilities (WCF) Ordinance and Preliminary Draft Small Wireless Communication Facility (SWCF) Design Manual to City Council for a First Reading and public hearing dates. The committee also recommended approval of a model Master License Agreement for small wireless facilities on City assets. Other actions included recommending adoption of a fire department ordinance with gender-neutral language and restoring an appeal process, and recommending changes to the Human Relations Commission's intake and mediation process.
- Forwarded proposed WCF Ordinance and SWCF Design Manual to City Council for First Reading and public hearing dates (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of model Master License Agreement for small wireless facilities on City assets (unanimous)
- Recommended adoption of Ordinance #2020-11 (Fire Department) with gender-neutral language and restored appeal process (unanimous)
- Recommended restoration of DHRC intake form, non-binding mediation, and community education; item to be reviewed by City Solicitor and not on consent agenda (unanimous)
- Recommended drafting of rental dwelling ordinance changes for an up or down vote at next meeting (unanimous)
- Deferred library reopening until clear guidelines and protocols are in place (unanimous)
- Deferred Wilmington Hope Commission presentation to October 13, 2020 meeting (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council unanimously approved hiring Brian Sylvester as Library Director and Megan Johnson as Assistant Library Director, pending salary agreement, after considering terminating the contract with Library Systems and Services. The Council also adopted Ordinance #2020-10, amending voter registration deadlines for municipal elections, and approved several appointments and reports.
- Hired Brian Sylvester as Library Director and Megan Johnson as Assistant Library Director (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance #2020-10 amending voter registration deadlines (unanimous)
- Approved appointment of Kelli Leiter Lord to Planning Commission (unanimous)
- Approved appointment of Tiffany L. Steger to Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals (unanimous)
- Accepted David Knight as Second Fire Line Captain for Robbins Hose Company (unanimous)
- Accepted semi-annual inspection report for Robbins Hose Company (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda and minutes of prior meetings (unanimous)
DDP Design Committee
The Design Committee approved funding up to $1,400 for glass repair and window decal/logo replacement at Caribbean Cuisine, following estimates for laminated safety glass. They also discussed façade improvements for 237 W. Loockerman and Sold Out Sneaks, and noted that the AARP mural grant was not selected. The committee approved the July 2020 minutes unanimously.
- Approved up to $1,400 for Caribbean Cuisine window glass repair and decal/logo replacement
- Approved July 2020 meeting minutes unanimously
- Discussed façade improvements for 237 W. Loockerman (awning fabric, power washing, painting)
- Discussed potential screen door and signage for Sold Out Sneaks, pending application and second estimate
- Noted AARP mural grant application was not selected; project narrative to be reused for future opportunities
Municipal
The Silver Lake Commission met via Webex and approved the previous meeting's minutes. The main discussion was an update on the Kent County sewer main project, with the contractor George & Lynch completing installation and testing of a new sewer line, and beginning reconnection and restoration work. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the minutes; other items were informational or discussions about potential future actions.
- Approved minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)
- Discussed sewer main update: installation complete, reconnection and restoration to begin
- Agreed to hold off on fall cleanup, possibly coordinate with draw down
- Noted no permit was issued for August 23 event in park
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council approved a Federal COPS Grant proposal for five additional police positions dedicated to community policing, with future budget items requiring a budget amendment. The council also approved the Governing Policy for Energy Commodity Risk Management with no changes, accepted the results of the 1st District special election won by Gerald L. Rocha, Sr., and approved a contract for the Garrison Oak substation design. Several presentations were made on housing, criminal justice reform, and body cameras, with a motion passed to negotiate vendor deals for body cameras.
- Approved Federal COPS Grant for 5 community-policing positions (unanimous)
- Approved Governing Policy for Energy Commodity Risk Management (unanimous)
- Approved $300K-$400K body camera vendor negotiation motion (unanimous)
- Approved Garrison Oak substation design contract to Aubrey Silvey Enterprises (unanimous)
- Accepted 1st District election results; Gerald L. Rocha, Sr. won (unanimous)
- Approved lodging tax collection as scheduled without penalties (unanimous)
- Recommended adoption of Ordinance #2020-10 on elections (unanimous)
- Reappointed Scott W. Cole to Library Advisory Commission (unanimous)
Election Board
The Election Board reviewed surveillance footage confirming six absentee ballots were dropped off before 8:00 p.m., then voted unanimously to certify and accept the election results. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with no other substantive decisions.
- Adopted agenda by unanimous consent
- Certified and accepted 2020 Special Municipal Election results (unanimous)
Home Events
The Dover Planning Commission approved a conditional use for Love Drives Child Daycare at 151 Greenhill Avenue (6-1), approved the Landing Square office building with waivers and a 77.9% impervious coverage cap (7-0), and accepted revisions to the Tommy Express Car Wash site plan (7-0). The commission also elected Mrs. Maucher as Chair and postponed Vice-Chair election.
- Approved C-20-03 Love Drives Child Daycare conditional use with waivers (6-1)
- Approved C-20-02 Landing Square office building with waivers and 77.9% impervious cap (7-0)
- Approved S-19-22 Tommy Express Car Wash site plan revisions (7-0)
- Elected Mrs. Maucher as Planning Commission Chair (7-0)
- Postponed Vice-Chair election until Mrs. Malone returns (7-0)
- Appointed Mr. Roach to Architectural Review Oversight Subcommittee (7-0)
- Approved resolution honoring Deborah Edwards (7-0)
DDP Marketing and Promotions Committee
The Merchants Committee unanimously approved the June minutes and discussed updates on the Capital Key campaign, merchant window contests, and a proposed webinar training. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; most topics were updates or planning discussions.
- Approved June minutes unanimously
- Discussed Capital Key campaign updates and promotion plans
- Selected winners for summer window contest: Tina's Timeless Threads and Creative Vision
- Planned October window contest with judges from DAFB, realtors, and essential workers
- Discussed webinar training from Gregory Zackowicz at $800, with committee providing $500+
- Set target of Sept. 15 for consistent merchant hours
- Planned First Friday September poetry-themed events with no-touch activities
Home Events
The joint pension boards approved a two-year extension of Milliman's consulting and advisory services for the General Employee, Police, and OPEB trusts at $38,000 per year, down from $40,000. They also accepted quarterly performance reviews and annual investment policy reviews for all three plans with no allocation changes. Chairs were re-elected for the General Employee Pension Plan Board and OPEB Board. Future meeting dates were set for November 12, 2020, February 11, 2021, April 29, 2021, and August 12, 2021.
- Approved 2-year Milliman consulting extension at $38,000/year (unanimous)
- Accepted Q2 2020 performance reviews for General Employee, Police, and OPEB plans (unanimous)
- Accepted annual investment policy reviews with no allocation changes for all three plans (unanimous)
- Re-elected Ms. Peddicord as Chair of General Employee Pension Plan Board (unanimous)
- Elected Ms. Hawkins as Chair of OPEB Board (unanimous)
- Approved future meeting dates: Nov 12 2020, Feb 11 2021, Apr 29 2021, Aug 12 2021 (unanimous)
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole met via video conference and made several recommendations. The most significant action was a unanimous recommendation for Mayor Christiansen and Police Chief Johnson to negotiate the best deal for body-worn cameras with vendors, with the proposal to be reviewed by City Council. The committee also recommended no changes to the Energy Commodity Risk Management policy, collecting the lodging tax as scheduled without penalties if not paid by September 1, and adoption of an ordinance on elections. A presentation on the Dover Downs NASCAR event was deferred, and the Federal COPS Grant was discussed but brought forward without a recommendation.
- Recommended no changes to Energy Commodity Risk Management policy (unanimous)
- Recommended Mayor negotiate body camera deal with vendors (unanimous)
- Recommended collecting lodging tax as scheduled without penalties if not paid by Sept 1 (unanimous)
- Recommended adoption of Ordinance #2020-10 on elections (unanimous)
- Deferred presentation on Dover Downs NASCAR event
- Brought Federal COPS Grant forward without recommendation
Home Events
The Dover Planning Commission denied the conditional use application for an 80-unit apartment building at Landing Square (600 Bay Road), citing that the apartments were not in harmony with the surrounding zoning and lacked adequate green space. The commission deferred action on the remaining aspects of the plan (office building, restaurants, parking) to allow the applicant to revise. The commission also approved a maintenance plan for the wetland mitigation area for the New Dover Middle Schools project and deferred officer elections until August.
- Denied conditional use for 80-unit apartment building at 600 Bay Road (7-0)
- Deferred action on remaining aspects of Landing Square plan (parking, restaurants, office) (7-0)
- Approved wetland mitigation maintenance plan for New Dover Middle Schools (6-0, Roach recused)
- Approved resolution honoring Frederick Tolbert (7-0)
- Deferred election of Planning Commission officers until August (7-0)
- Deferred appointment of Architectural Review Oversight Subcommittee until August (7-0)
- Approved agenda and minutes of May 18, 2020 sessions (6-0 each)
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole unanimously voted to refer Staff Substitute #2 for Ordinance #2020-05, which would regulate short-term rentals like Airbnb, back to staff for further review. Concerns were raised about residency requirements, occupancy limits, and fair housing implications. The committee also approved a cash-in-lieu recreation donation for an apartment complex, forwarded a letter to the federal delegation about a wetland pond, and recommended renaming New Street Park.
- Referred Airbnb ordinance SS#2 back to staff (unanimous)
- Approved active recreation plan and $98,387.52 cash-in-lieu for Landing Square Apartments (unanimous)
- Forwarded letter to federal delegation on wetland pond at Pat Lynn Drive (unanimous)
- Recommended renaming New Street Park to Bishop L.T. Blackshear Park (unanimous)
- Approved revised library reopening plan with soft opening August 3 (unanimous)
- Approved water production operational plan (unanimous)
- Accepted Summer Park Activities Update (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council approved a $205,665 contract for the Meeting House Branch Sewer Replacement, extended the NAES contract through June 2021, and retained The Mercer Group for the city manager search. They also approved appointments to the Downtown Dover Partnership and annual committee appointments. The Motor Vehicle Record Review Policy was referred back to staff for further review.
- Approved $205,665 sewer replacement contract to Teal Construction (unanimous)
- Approved one-year NAES contract extension through June 30, 2021 (unanimous)
- Retained The Mercer Group for city manager recruitment (unanimous)
- Referred Motor Vehicle Record Review Policy back to staff (unanimous)
- Approved FY2021 audit program with additions (unanimous)
- Appointed Ralph L. Taylor Jr. to Downtown Dover Partnership Board (unanimous)
- Approved annual committee appointments (unanimous)
- Adopted Tribute No. 2020-02 for Frederick Tolbert Sr. (unanimous)
DDP Design Committee
The Design Committee approved the FY 2021 work plan and decided to rename the 'Spring into Action' event to 'Fall For Downtown,' with a survey to be sent out allowing three weeks for responses. The committee also discussed downtown reopening status, a flowerpot vandalism case seeking restitution and community service, and an AARP grant for a mural that has not yet been awarded. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned at 1:10 p.m.
- Approved April 2020 minutes unanimously
- Approved FY 2021 work plan
- Renamed 'Spring into Action' to 'Fall For Downtown'
- Decided to send survey with three-week response window
- Discussed seeking financial restitution and community service for flowerpot vandalism
- Noted façade grant applications for Sold Out Sneakers and Caribbean Cuisine repairs
Downtown Dover Partnership Board
The Downtown Dover Partnership Board selected Colonial Parking Inc. as the vendor to manage downtown parking, with a proposal to be prepared for city council approval. The board also accepted the May 2020 meeting minutes and received updates on the Bradford Street construction project and the Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing's purchase of 630 W. Division Street.
- Selected Colonial Parking Inc. as parking vendor (unanimous)
- Accepted May 2020 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved new land-use agreement for Loockerman Way Plaza
- Received approval from DNREC to transfer property to Inner-City Cultural League
Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals
The Dover Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals heard six appeals, dismissing citations for overgrown vegetation at 44 South Governors Avenue and 448 North State Street, and waiving the vacant building registration fee for 135 Lotus Street contingent on listing. The board also granted a three-month extension for 108 West Loockerman Street and allowed 40 Ridgely Street to restart without penalty. All decisions were unanimous.
- Approved agenda (unanimous)
- Accepted appeal of registration fee for 135 Lotus Street contingent on listing (unanimous)
- Deferred appeal for 108 West Loockerman Street to end of meeting (unanimous)
- Dismissed citation and fine for 44 South Governors Avenue (unanimous)
- Dismissed complaint for 448 North State Street (unanimous)
- Wiped out case for 40 Ridgely Street, waived fee contingent on signed lease (unanimous)
- Granted 3-month extension for 108 West Loockerman Street (unanimous)
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole recommended awarding a $205,665 sewer replacement contract to Teal Construction, Inc., and approved a one-year extension of the NAES operations contract. The Motor Vehicle Record Review Policy was referred back to staff for further review. The committee also accepted the FY2021 audit program and discussed police accountability initiatives.
- Recommended awarding $205,665 sewer replacement contract to Teal Construction (unanimous)
- Approved one-year NAES contract extension through June 30, 2021 (unanimous)
- Referred Motor Vehicle Record Review Policy back to staff (unanimous)
- Accepted FY2021 audit program with additions (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council adopted the FY2020/2021 budget ordinance (Ordinance #2020-09) by a 7-2 vote, appropriating $50,736,400 for the general fund. The budget includes an $83,300 increase for police training and holds the property tax rate at the rolled-back rate of $0.4050 per $100 of assessed value. The council also approved several property tax exemptions recommended by the Board of Assessment Appeals, including for Mount Zion AME Church, Delaware State University Foundation, New Harvest Baptist Church, Capitol Baptist Church, and Downtown Dover Partnership Corp. Additionally, the council set a special election for August 18, 2020, to fill the First District council vacancy.
- Adopted FY2020/2021 budget ordinance #2020-09, $50,736,400 general fund (7-2)
- Adopted rolled-back tax rate of $0.4050 per $100 assessed value (unanimous)
- Approved property tax exemptions for Mount Zion AME Church, Delaware State University Foundation, New Harvest Baptist Church, Capitol Baptist Church, and Downtown Dover Partnership Corp. (unanimous)
- Set special election for First District council vacancy on August 18, 2020 (passed, Polce not voting, Neil abstaining)
- Approved use of headhunter for city manager search (unanimous)
- Approved $83,300 increase to police training budget (part of budget adoption)
- Approved grant submittal for Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding (unanimous)
- Approved recommendation to continue Downtown Dover Partnership parking MOU discussions (unanimous)
Historic District Commission
The Dover Historic District Commission met virtually for the first time due to COVID-19, with four members present. They unanimously approved the agenda and the minutes from the February 20, 2020 meeting. Staff reported on permit activity, including a demolition permit at 229 South Governors Avenue that was issued and work started. The commission discussed but took no action on the CLG grant for design standards, which will be abandoned for this grant year, and the implementation of the 2019 Comprehensive Plan.
- Approved agenda as submitted (4-0)
- Approved minutes of February 20, 2020 meeting (4-0)
- Adjourned meeting (4-0)
Board of Adjustment
The Dover Board of Adjustment approved a variance for a new monument sign at 245 McKee Road, allowing a 42.5 SF sign face and 8-foot height, despite code limits of 32 SF and 7 feet, because the existing non-conforming sign is larger. The board also approved a variance for a 5-foot fence at 5 Pine Street, with the applicant withdrawing the corner visibility request and agreeing to no fence in the corner area. Both decisions were made with specific conditions and vote tallies.
- Approved variance V-20-02 for 42.5 SF sign at 8 feet height at 245 McKee Road (4-0, Senato abstained)
- Approved variance V-20-04 for 5-foot fence at 5 Pine Street, with no fence in corner visibility area (3-1, Hufnal abstained, Keller voted no)
- Removed application V-20-02 from table (5-0)
- Approved agenda (5-0)
- Approved May 20, 2020 minutes with corrections (5-0)
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole met via video conference and unanimously recommended referring the Delaware Union youth soccer proposal for further development, and approved staff's recommendation to authorize the City Manager to negotiate an architectural and engineering services agreement with Whitman, Requardt & Associates for five recreation projects. The committee also recommended approval of a joint grant submittal with Kent County for COVID-19 emergency funding, and approved continuing discussions on a downtown parking memorandum of understanding. No final votes were taken; all actions are recommendations to the full Council.
- Referred Delaware Union youth soccer proposal for further development (unanimous)
- Approved staff recommendation to negotiate with Whitman, Requardt & Associates for recreation design services (unanimous)
- Approved FY 2020 Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding grant submittal with Kent County (unanimous)
- Approved continuing Downtown Dover Partnership parking MOU discussions (unanimous)
- Approved directing HR to contact headhunters for city manager search (unanimous)
- Accepted annual engineering consultant's report on electric system (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council approved the annexation and rezoning of three properties: 1448 North Little Creek Road (0.22 acres, to R-8), 1385-1389 McKee Road (78.60 acres, to RG-2 and C-2A with COZ-1), and 679 Horsepond Road (2.00 acres, to C-3 and AEOZ). The council also adopted the FY2020 electric rates and tariffs, extended the property tax due date to September 30, 2020, and authorized up to $732,200 in water and sewer revenue bonds for the Puncheon Run Pump Station grit removal system replacement.
- Adopted Annexation Resolution No. 2020-05 for 1448 North Little Creek Road (unanimous)
- Adopted Rezoning Ordinance #2020-02 for 1448 North Little Creek Road to R-8 (unanimous)
- Adopted Annexation Resolution No. 2020-06 for 1385-1389 McKee Road (unanimous)
- Adopted Rezoning Ordinance #2020-03 for 1385-1389 McKee Road to RG-2/C-2A/COZ-1 (unanimous)
- Adopted Annexation Resolution No. 2020-07 for 679 Horsepond Road (unanimous)
- Adopted Rezoning Ordinance #2020-07 for 679 Horsepond Road to C-3/AEOZ (unanimous)
- Adopted FY2020 electric rates and tariffs with power cost adjustment credit of ($.0070) (unanimous)
- Extended property tax due date to September 30, 2020, waiving interest/penalties to October 1, 2020 (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council unanimously adopted the Fiscal Year 2021 operating budget as presented, which includes water and wastewater rate increases offset by an increased electric PCA credit. The budget also includes no property tax increase, no new full-time positions, and reduced capital transfers. The council removed a stormwater utility recommendation from the agenda for later discussion.
- Adopted FY2021 operating budget as presented (unanimous)
- Removed Stormwater Utility Recommendation from agenda for later discussion
- Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
Board of Adjustment
The Dover Board of Adjustment tabled variance application V-20-02, which sought to increase the height and area of a monument sign with an electronic message center at 245 McKee Road for the Delaware Department of Corrections. The board voted 5-0 to defer the application to the next meeting, with the public hearing also deferred. No other substantive decisions were made; the agenda and prior meeting minutes were approved unanimously.
- Approved agenda as submitted (5-0)
- Approved January 15, 2020 meeting minutes with corrections (5-0)
- Tabled variance application V-20-02 for 245 McKee Road sign height/area increase (5-0)
Home Events
The Dover Planning Commission recommended approval to City Council for the annexation and rezoning of 78.60 acres at 1385-1389 McKee Road to RG-2 (General Residence) and C-2A (Limited Commercial) zones, despite public concerns about traffic and commercial impact. The commission also approved a cash-in-lieu payment of $4,250 for active recreation area construction for a minor subdivision, and recommended approval for the annexation and rezoning of a 0.21-acre parcel at 1448 N. Little Creek Road to R-8. Additionally, the commission approved updates to the Tommy Express Car Wash site plan and a conditional use permit for four warehouse buildings at 131 Rosemary Road.
- Recommended approval of AX-20-02 annexation and rezoning to RG-2 and C-2A for 78.60 acres at 1385-1389 McKee Road (8-0)
- Recommended approval of AX-20-01 annexation and rezoning to R-8 for 0.21 acres at 1448 N. Little Creek Road (7-0)
- Approved $4,250 cash-in-lieu payment for active recreation area for SB-20-01 subdivision at 1504 and 1506 College Road (7-0)
- Approved updates to S-19-22 Tommy Express Car Wash site plan at Carver Road (7-0)
- Approved C-20-01 conditional use for four warehouses at 131 Rosemary Road with waivers (7-0)
Home Events
The Dover Planning Commission approved the Site Development Master Plan for the new Dover Middle Schools at 1 Pat Lynn Drive, with a condition requiring the applicant to submit a wetland area maintenance plan within 30 days. The commission also recommended approval to City Council for the annexation and rezoning of 679 Horsepond Road to C-3 (Service Commercial Zone) and approved a one-year extension for the Kraft Foods minor subdivision plan. The meeting was held virtually due to the COVID-19 state of emergency.
- Approved S-20-02 New Dover Middle Schools master plan with condition for wetland maintenance plan (6-0, Roach recused)
- Recommended approval to City Council for AX-20-03 annexation and C-3 rezoning at 679 Horsepond Road (7-0)
- Approved SB-19-01 Kraft Foods minor subdivision plan extension (7-0)
- Deferred action on filling Planning Commission Chair vacancy until July/August meeting (7-0)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council held its annual meeting, electing William F. Hare as Council President/Vice-Mayor for 2020/2021. The council approved the 2020-2024 CDBG Consolidated Plan and FY20 Action Plan, extended Emergency Ordinance #2020-06 for another 30 days, and referred the short-term rental ordinance and 911 supervisor replacement to staff/committee for further review. All votes were unanimous.
- Elected William F. Hare as Council President/Vice-Mayor for 2020/2021 (unanimous)
- Approved 2020-2024 CDBG Consolidated Plan and FY20 Action Plan (unanimous)
- Extended Emergency Ordinance #2020-06 for 30 days to June 13, 2020 (unanimous)
- Referred Staff Substitute #1 for Ordinance #2020-05 (short-term rentals) back to staff (unanimous)
- Referred 911 supervisor replacement to Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee (unanimous)
- Set public hearing for Electric Fund Budget on June 8, 2020 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2020-03 approving CDBG Consolidated Plan (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2020-04 authorizing banking signatures (unanimous)
Municipal
The Silver Lake Commission reviewed and approved the site plan for the new Dover Middle Schools, a 238,000 sq ft facility housing two middle schools with shared facilities, located at the former Dover High site. The plan includes a reduction of impervious surfaces by over 2 acres, compliance with 2019 DNREC regulations, and no disturbance to wetlands or woodlands. The approval was unanimous without objection, and the plan will be presented to the City of Dover Planning Commission on May 18.
- Approved the site plan for the new Dover Middle Schools (unanimous, no objection)
- Requested the district to consider opening the fence on the Senator Way side for sidewalk access (discussed, not decided)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council held a special meeting via video conference to hear from Council President candidates Mr. Sudler and Mr. Hare. The meeting was informational, with no vote taken on the presidency. The Council did unanimously approve a voting procedure for the election at the Annual Meeting, which involves the City Solicitor individually collecting votes.
- Approved agenda with added Discussion of Voting Procedure (unanimous)
- Approved voting procedure for Council President election at Annual Meeting (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council unanimously recommended proceeding with the annexation of 679 Horsepond Road, owned by JACJIM, LLC, as recommended by staff. The council also accepted the Quarterly Revenue Report, which showed collections down $1.8 million, and approved minutes from prior meetings. No other substantive decisions were made; discussions on reopening the city were held without formal action.
- Recommended proceeding with annexation of 679 Horsepond Road (unanimous)
- Accepted Quarterly Revenue Report as of March 31, 2020 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of Special Council Meeting of January 22, 2020 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of Special Council Meeting of February 10, 2020 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of Regular Council Meeting of April 13, 2020 (unanimous)
- Adopted agenda and consent agenda as amended (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council adopted Emergency Ordinance #2020-06, which waives certain charter, code, policy, and procedure requirements during the COVID-19 state of emergency, including the requirement to hold regular monthly meetings. The ordinance is retroactive to March 23, 2020, and will be revisited in 30 days. The council also approved a budget amendment to the 2019 Community Development Block Grant Action Plan for CARES Act funds, postponed public hearings on annexation/rezoning requests, and accepted several committee recommendations.
- Adopted Emergency Ordinance #2020-06 waiving charter/code requirements during COVID-19 (unanimous)
- Approved CDBG Action Plan amendment for CARES Act funds (unanimous)
- Postponed public hearings for annexation/rezoning at 1448 N. Little Creek Rd and 1385-1389 McKee Rd (unanimous)
- Approved $732,200 contract for Puncheon Run Pump Station improvements to Kuhn Construction (unanimous)
- Accepted $4,250 cash-in-lieu for recreation area at 1504 and 1506 College Rd (unanimous)
- Approved purchase of replacement IBM Power System S914 server (unanimous)
- Appointed Andrea B. Maucher to Utility Committee (unanimous)
- Referred rezoning request for 679 Horsepond Rd to committees (unanimous)
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole recommended awarding the Puncheon Run Pump Station Improvement contract to Kuhn Construction for $732,200, and accepted a $4,250 cash-in-lieu donation for recreation area construction at 1504 and 1506 College Road. The committee also advanced a recommendation to purchase a replacement IBM Power System S914 server, with staff directed to answer cost questions before the full Council vote. All decisions were unanimous.
- Recommended awarding $732,200 contract to Kuhn Construction for Puncheon Run Pump Station (unanimous)
- Recommended accepting $4,250 cash-in-lieu for recreation area at 1504/1506 College Road (unanimous)
- Recommended authorizing purchase of replacement IBM Power System S914 server, with staff to provide cost details (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council voted unanimously to refer Proposed Ordinance #2020-05, which would regulate short-term rentals, back to staff for reconsideration. The decision followed extensive discussion about enforcement concerns, neighborhood impacts, and the need to balance economic benefits with resident protections. The Council also approved several other items, including a resolution for new wells at Dover International Speedway and a contract for a compensation study.
- Referred Ordinance #2020-05 (short-term rentals) back to staff for revisions (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2020-02 for up to 3 new wells at Dover International Speedway (unanimous)
- Approved annexation requests for 1448 North Little Creek Road and 1385-1389 McKee Road (unanimous)
- Authorized temporary staffing for ERP system projects at about $51,000 (unanimous)
- Authorized agreement with Segal Waters Consulting for compensation study (unanimous)
- Approved 2020 Property Assessment Appeals dates for May-June (unanimous)
- Accepted Dover Human Relations Commission 2019 Annual Report (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from January 13 and February 24 meetings (unanimous)
Municipal
The commission approved the January 2020 minutes and accepted the agenda. Kent County Public Works reported that soil bacteria levels at Silver Lake Park have returned to normal, allowing the fence to be removed, though additional investigation and pipe repairs are scheduled to start in late March. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; the meeting focused on updates and discussions.
- Approved January 2020 minutes
- Accepted agenda with no changes
- Fence at Silver Lake Park to be removed after bacteria levels returned to normal
- Pipe repair work scheduled to start in 3rd week of March
- Volleyball court completion expected within a few days
- Chair to contact U of D Coastal Design for kayak launch design
- Mr. Jones to contact HOBY for spring cleanup date
- Mr. Jones to share Fish & Wildlife grant info when available
Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals
The board voted unanimously to uphold staff findings in a property maintenance code appeal by Joni Monk regarding an annual housing inspection at 1001 White Oak Road, B31. Monk argued the inspection sequence was flawed and the unit was vacant, but the board sided with staff. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Upheld staff findings in property maintenance appeal for 1001 White Oak Road, B31 (unanimous)
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole voted unanimously to refer Proposed Ordinance #2020-05, which would amend regulations for short-term rentals and lodginghouses, back to staff for reconsideration. The decision followed extensive discussion about enforceability, neighborhood impacts, and economic considerations. The committee also recommended approval of several other items, including new water wells for Dover International Speedway, two annexation requests, temporary staffing for ERP projects, and a compensation study contract.
- Referred Ordinance #2020-05 (short-term rentals) back to staff (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of up to 3 new wells on Lot 18, Dover International Speedway (unanimous)
- Recommended forwarding annexation for 1448 North Little Creek Road to Planning Commission (unanimous)
- Recommended forwarding annexation for 1385-1389 McKee Road to Planning Commission (unanimous)
- Recommended authorizing temporary staffing for ERP projects (unanimous)
- Recommended authorizing agreement with Segal Waters Consulting for compensation study (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council approved several items by consent agenda, including $154,209.73 in CDBG budget amendments, revised personnel policy on discrimination/harassment, updated travel policy, ADP contract extension, and appointment of Janella M. Tauchus as Assistant Treasurer. Ordinance #2020-04 on the Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals was referred back to staff for revisions. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved $154,209.73 CDBG budget amendments (unanimous)
- Approved revised Personnel Policy on Discrimination and Harassment (unanimous)
- Approved revised Travel Policy (unanimous)
- Approved ADP contract extension through Dec 31, 2020 (unanimous)
- Appointed Janella M. Tauchus as Assistant Treasurer (unanimous)
- Referred Ordinance #2020-04 back to staff for revisions (unanimous)
Historic District Commission
The Dover Historic District Commission approved a demolition permit for a vacant commercial building at 229 South Governors Avenue, with staff recommendations moved to advisory. The commission also adopted the November 2019 meeting minutes and received updates on the 2019 Comprehensive Plan and CLG grant.
- Approved demolition permit #20-47 at 229 South Governors Avenue (3-0)
- Adopted minutes of November 21, 2019 meeting (3-0)
- Approved agenda as amended with New Business first (3-0)
Home Events
The Dover Human Relations Commission unanimously approved its 2019 Annual Report for submission to City Council and tabled proposed revisions to its brochure and mission statement. The commission also voted to continue discussion of the intake form at a future meeting, after debating whether to redesign it as a contact form and whether complaints should go first to the commission or the City Clerk's Office. No final changes to the intake form were made.
- Approved 2019 Annual Report to City Council (unanimous)
- Tabled proposed revisions to DHRC Brochure - Mission Statement (unanimous)
- Continued intake form discussion to next meeting (unanimous)
Home Events
The joint pension boards met and unanimously accepted the quarterly performance reviews for the General Employee Pension Plan, Police Pension Plan, and OPEB Plan for the quarter ending December 31, 2019. The meeting also adopted the agenda and the minutes from the November 14, 2019 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
- Adopted November 14, 2019 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Accepted Q4 2019 performance review for General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
- Accepted Q4 2019 performance review for Police Pension Plan (unanimous)
- Accepted Q4 2019 performance review for OPEB Plan (unanimous)
Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee received updates on contracted economic studies, including a Rockport deeper-dive analysis and a retail gap analysis by Rick Ferrell. No formal votes were taken on these items; the meeting was informational. The committee also discussed attending the ICSC conference and reviewed a map of commercial retail hot spots in Dover.
- Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole met on February 11, 2020, and approved several recommendations. The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee approved $154,209.73 in budget amendments to the 2019 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Action Plan. The Utility Committee directed staff to work with Citelum on a streetlight proposal and discussed utility rate changes and wireless communication facilities. The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee approved personnel policy and travel policy amendments, extended the ADP payroll contract, and referred a proposed ordinance on the Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals back to staff for revisions.
- Approved $154,209.73 in CDBG budget amendments for FY2019 (unanimous)
- Directed staff to work with Citelum on a streetlight strategic proposal (unanimous)
- Approved amendments to Personnel Policy on Discrimination and Harassment (unanimous)
- Approved amendments to the City of Dover Travel Policy (unanimous)
- Authorized extending ADP payroll contract through December 31, 2020 (unanimous)
- Referred Ordinance #2020-04 on Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals back to staff (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council adopted Ordinance #2019-19, amending the zoning code to permit barbershops and other personal service establishments in the General Residence and Office (RG-O) zone. The council also approved a $1,037,893.90 street and alley program contract with George & Lynch, Inc. A rezoning request for 4 Lakeview Drive failed due to lack of a second.
- Adopted Ordinance #2019-19 amending RG-O zoning to permit barbershops and personal service establishments (unanimous)
- Approved $1,037,893.90 street and alley program contract with George & Lynch, Inc. (unanimous)
- Rezoning request for 4 Lakeview Drive failed for lack of a second
- Approved Ordinance #2020-01 budget amendments (unanimous)
- Approved $1,037,893.90 street and alley program contract with George & Lynch, Inc. (unanimous)
- Approved $1,037,893.90 street and alley program contract with George & Lynch, Inc. (unanimous)
- Approved $1,037,893.90 street and alley program contract with George & Lynch, Inc. (unanimous)
- Approved $1,037,893.90 street and alley program contract with George & Lynch, Inc. (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The City Council held a special meeting and unanimously voted to assign the deed and its restrictions for the former Dover Public Library building to the State of Delaware. This action followed a closed executive session where members discussed the deed restrictions. No other substantive decisions were made during the meeting.
- Assigned deed and restrictions for former Dover Public Library to State of Delaware (unanimous)
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole recommended sunsetting the Bicycle and Pedestrian Subcommittee, replacing it with an informal committee to advise the City Manager and report quarterly to City Council. The recommendation passed 6-3. The committee also recommended awarding a $1,037,893.90 street and alley contract to George & Lynch, Inc., and approved a water infrastructure dedication for Leander Lakes Apartments.
- Recommended sunsetting Bicycle and Pedestrian Subcommittee (6-3)
- Recommended awarding FY20 Street & Alley Program contract to George & Lynch, Inc. ($1,037,893.90)
- Recommended accepting water/wastewater infrastructure dedication for Leander Lakes Apartments
- Recommended switching CTP priorities: Loockerman/Forest Street Intersection and Crawford Carroll Avenue Extension
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council held a special meeting on January 27, 2020, and unanimously voted to recess into executive session to discuss an individual's qualifications for a job or training and legal strategy regarding potential litigation. Following the closed session, the council unanimously approved engaging Ms. Victoria K. Petrone of Baird Mandalas Brockstedt LLC as outside counsel for potential litigation. The meeting adjourned shortly after.
- Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
- Recessed into executive session for personnel and legal strategy discussions (unanimous)
- Approved engaging Ms. Victoria K. Petrone of Baird Mandalas Brockstedt LLC for potential litigation (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council approved a consent agenda including budget amendments totaling $11,906,100 for Fiscal Year 2020 and the first reading of Ordinance #2020-01. The Council also approved the nomination of Retired Lieutenant Timothy Mullaney, Sr. to the Police Pension Plan Retirement Committee and the appointment of Gary E. Junge as Deputy City Solicitor. No substantive policy decisions were made beyond these approvals; the meeting included presentations on the 2020 property revaluation and the Silver Lake sewer main break.
- Approved $11,906,100 in FY2020 budget amendments and Ordinance #2020-01 first reading (unanimous)
- Approved nomination of Retired Lt. Timothy Mullaney, Sr. to Police Pension Plan Retirement Committee (unanimous)
- Approved appointment of Gary E. Junge as Deputy City Solicitor (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda as amended (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of January 13, 2020 meeting (unanimous)
- Referred proposed Affirmative Action Plan to staff for further study (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council held public hearings and unanimously approved staff recommendations for four properties cited under the Dangerous Building Ordinance. For 115 North Kirkwood Street, the owner must repair or demolish by March 25, 2020. For 726 Slaughter Street, the property must be demolished by February 24, 2020. For 309 MacArthur Drive, action was delayed for six months after permit issuance, with the matter to return if no activity occurs. For 749 Oak Drive, the owner must repair or demolish by February 24, 2020.
- Declared 115 North Kirkwood St dangerous; ordered repair/demolition by March 25, 2020 (unanimous)
- Declared 726 Slaughter St dangerous; ordered demolition by February 24, 2020 (unanimous)
- Delayed action on 309 MacArthur Dr for six months after permit issuance (unanimous)
- Declared 749 Oak Dr dangerous; ordered repair/demolition by February 24, 2020 (unanimous)
Home Events
The Dover Human Relations Commission unanimously approved revisions to its Strategic Plan, extending the plan's years from 2019-2021 to 2020-2023. The commission also deferred discussion of an intake form and brochure revisions to future meetings, pending City Council approval of the revised plan.
- Approved revising strategic plan years to 2020-2023 (unanimous)
- Approved revising years in the body of the strategic plan to 2020-2023 (unanimous)
- Approved the revised strategic plan (unanimous)
- Deferred intake form discussion to February 20, 2020 meeting (unanimous)
- Deferred brochure revisions until strategic plan approved by City Council (unanimous)
Board of Adjustment
The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved variance application V-20-01, allowing the Church of the Holy Cross to construct a 12-foot 9-inch tall archway sign at the entrance of Holy Cross Cemetery, exceeding the 7-foot maximum and the permitted sign type under the Zoning Ordinance. The motion carried 4-0, with Mr. Sheth absent. The board also approved the agenda and the minutes from the September 18, 2019 meeting, both unanimously.
- Approved variance V-20-01 for 12-ft 9-in archway sign at Holy Cross Cemetery (4-0)
- Approved agenda as submitted (4-0)
- Approved September 18, 2019 meeting minutes with corrections (4-0)
Council Committee of the Whole
The Council Committee of the Whole met and discussed the Diversity and Inclusion Study, heard public comments, and unanimously voted to refer a proposed Affirmative Action Plan to staff for further study. They also approved budget amendments totaling $11,906,100 and authorized a letter for library reciprocal borrowing funds. No final decisions were made on the diversity study itself.
- Referred proposed Affirmative Action Plan to staff for further study (unanimous)
- Approved budget amendments totaling $11,906,100 for FY2020 (unanimous)
- Authorized letter detailing uses for $125,000 library reciprocal borrowing funds (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The council unanimously approved City Manager Donna S. Mitchell's retirement and agreed to include her prior service from June 1978 through July 1989 (11 years) in calculating her retirement benefits. The decision followed a closed executive session on personnel matters. No other substantive actions were taken.
- Approved City Manager Donna S. Mitchell's retirement (unanimous)
- Approved inclusion of 11 years of prior service (1978-1989) in retirement benefit calculation (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Dover City Council adopted the 2019 Comprehensive Plan (Ordinance #2019-21) after a public hearing, incorporating Planning Commission recommendations. They also unanimously approved Mayor Christiansen's appointment of Thomas Johnson as the new Chief of Police, and approved a one-year library management contract with Library Systems & Services, LLC for up to $200,000. Additionally, they adopted an ordinance amending the downtown tax abatement program and a resolution supporting Wesley College.
- Adopted 2019 Comprehensive Plan (Ordinance #2019-21) unanimously
- Approved Thomas Johnson as Chief of Police (unanimous)
- Authorized library management contract with Library Systems & Services, LLC up to $200,000 (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance #2019-20 amending downtown tax abatement (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution #2020-01 supporting Wesley College (unanimous, Slavin abstaining)
- Referred Bicycle and Pedestrian Subcommittee discharge to Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee (unanimous)
- Accepted monthly reports and Capital Investment Plan quarterly report (unanimous)
Municipal
The commission discussed the December 19 sewage line break in Silver Lake Park, which discharged sewage into the river but not the lake. The park remains closed while the county investigates and replaces damaged pipe sections. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational, with updates from county and city staff.
- Approved September 2019 minutes with correction (unanimous)
- Agreed to include request for property owner repair info in 2020 lake drawdown notices
- Agreed to plan spring cleanup event with Michigan State students (date TBD)
- Agreed to coordinate with Kent County Conservancy for cleanup event