Dover public meetings in 2024

Committee Minutes

This agenda announces that the Council Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled for December 24, 2024, is cancelled. The next meeting will be held on January 14, 2025. No business items are listed for this date.

• Meeting cancelled for December 24, 2024
• Next meeting scheduled for January 14, 2025

Municipal

This agenda announces that the regular City Council meeting scheduled for December 23, 2024, is cancelled. The next regular meeting will be held on January 13, 2025. No business items are listed for this date.

• Meeting cancelled for December 23, 2024
• Next regular meeting scheduled for January 13, 2025

Historic District Commission

The Dover Historic District Commission will hold a public hearing and review for architectural certification of a proposed four-story, 400-space parking garage at 133 S. Governors Avenue. The commission will also adopt minutes, receive staff reports, elect officers, and set its 2025 meeting schedule.

• Public hearing on HI-24-09 Dover Mobility Center Garage at 133 S. Governors Avenue
• Review of Architectural Review Certificates for 2024
• Election of Chair and Vice-Chair
• Adoption of minutes from October 17, 2024
• Meeting and deadline schedule for 2025 (draft)

DDP Economic Development and Restructuring Committee

The Economic Vitality Committee meeting scheduled for December 18, 2024, is cancelled. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting. The next meeting date is to be determined.

• Meeting cancelled

Board of Adjustment

The Dover Board of Adjustment's regular meeting scheduled for December 18, 2024, has been cancelled. The next scheduled meeting will be held on January 15, 2025, at 9:00 AM. This notice contains no agenda items for discussion or decision.

• Meeting cancelled
• Next meeting: January 15, 2025, 9:00 AM

Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals

The Dover Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals will hear two appeals. The first challenges citations and fines for missing water heating facilities at multiple buildings at 87 Par Haven Drive (Brandywine Court Condo). The second appeals a vacant building registration fee at 39 N. Turnberry Drive. The board will decide whether to uphold or overturn these enforcement actions.

• Appeal of citations and fines for water heating facilities at 87 Par Haven Drive, Buildings I11-I14 and I21-I24 and I31-I34 (Brandywine Court Condo)
• Appeal of vacant building registration fee at 39 N. Turnberry Drive (Eric Sisco)

Ethics Commission

The Dover Ethics Commission is meeting to consider its agenda and then recess into executive session to discuss a city solicitor memorandum, which may involve personnel or private information. The meeting is largely procedural, with the only substantive item being the closed-session discussion and any potential action that may follow.

• Discussion of city solicitor memorandum in executive session
• Potential action resulting from executive session

Home Events

The Dover Human Relations Commission meeting scheduled for December 17, 2024, has been canceled. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting.

• Meeting canceled

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a rezoning request, a site development plan for an office building, and an alley abandonment, and will consider extensions for two previously approved projects. The meeting also includes routine items like minutes approval and updates.

• Rezoning of 1216 McKee Road from C-PO to IO (Ordinance #2024-31)
• Site plan for 2,140 SF office building at 1107 S. Bradford Street
• Alley abandonment between S. Governors Avenue and S. Bradford Street
• Extension request for Stonebrook East PND (241 units) at McKee and W. Denneys Road
• Extension request for 234,000 SF warehouse on Commerce Way

The Dover Planning Commission approved a six-month extension for the Stonebrook East PND, a one-year extension for the Commerce Way warehouse, recommended approval of a rezoning at 1216 McKee Road, approved a site plan for an office building at 1107 S. Bradford Street, and recommended approval of an alley abandonment for the Dover Mobility Center Garage project. All votes were 6-0 with three members absent.

• Approved 6-month extension for Stonebrook East PND (6-0)
• Approved 1-year extension for Commerce Way warehouse (6-0)
• Recommended approval of rezoning at 1216 McKee Road to IO (6-0)
• Approved office building site plan at 1107 S. Bradford Street with sidewalk waiver (6-0)
• Recommended approval of alley abandonment between S. Governors Ave and S. Bradford St (6-0)

DDP Merchant Committee

The Dover DDP Merchant Committee will meet to discuss the upcoming Fire & Ice Festival (Jan 17-18), including opportunities for merchants and restaurateurs to participate. The agenda includes welcoming remarks, approval of minutes, and public comments.

• Fire & Ice Festival (Jan 17-18) overview and purpose
• The Hive on Loockerman
• Opportunities for merchants and restaurateurs: theme activities, hosting a sculpture, promoting business

Ethics Commission

The Dover Ethics Ad Hoc Committee will review a draft intake form and update Chapter 30, which covers standards of ethical conduct and commission rules. The meeting is procedural, focusing on internal administrative updates rather than specific cases or external projects. No dollar amounts or specific policy changes affecting residents are listed in the agenda.

• Review of the Draft Intake Form
• Review and Update Chapter 30 - Standards of Ethical Conduct and Ethics Commission
• Setting of Future Meeting Dates

DDP Design Committee

The Design Committee meeting scheduled for December 11, 2024, is cancelled. The agenda contains no items for discussion or decision. The committee's general purpose is to improve downtown Dover's appearance and educate on design principles.

• Meeting cancelled

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee meeting scheduled for December 10, 2024, has been cancelled. No items were discussed or decided.

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will discuss and review several administrative items, including additional information on the State of Delaware Pension, an annual review of the city's investment policy, and a sole vendor purchase for a police department HVAC upgrade. The utility committee will also accept the annual engineering consultant's report on the electric system. No final votes are expected, as most items are discussions or staff recommendations.

• Discussion of State of Delaware Pension with state deputy administrator
• Annual review of Investment Policy (staff recommends approval with no changes)
• Sole vendor purchase approval for HVAC System Upgrade at Dover Police Department from Service Unlimited, New Castle, DE
• Acceptance of Annual Engineering Consultant's Report on Electric System Operation and Maintenance for FY 2025

The Council Committee of the Whole met on December 10, 2024, and took action on two items: it unanimously recommended acceptance of the annual Investment Policy with no changes, and unanimously recommended approval of a sole vendor purchase for the HVAC system upgrade at the Dover Police Department from Service Unlimited, New Castle, DE. The committee also received informational presentations on the State of Delaware pension plan and the annual engineering consultant's report on the electric system, but no action was required on those items.

• Approved annual Investment Policy with no changes (unanimous)
• Approved sole vendor purchase for HVAC system upgrade at Dover Police Department from Service Unlimited, New Castle, DE (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will hold public hearings and final votes on two zoning ordinances for recreational marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, testing, and retail stores, plus two business license ordinances. They will also consider setting the stormwater utility fee to zero and refunding payments, and reallocating $91,000 in ARPA funds for housing and community services. The agenda includes routine items like minutes, reports, and fire company officer elections.

• Public hearing on Ordinance #2024-29 (marijuana cultivation/manufacturing/testing zoning) and #2024-30 (retail marijuana store zoning)
• Final reading of Ordinance #2024-24 and #2024-25 (recreational marijuana business licenses and fees)
• Set stormwater utility rate to zero, transfer to general fund, and refund/credit payments (agenda #30)
• Reallocate $91,000 in ARPA funds: $30,000 to John Wesley Church, remainder to Unsheltered Working Group (agenda #29)
• Proposed Ordinance #2024-32 on abandoned shopping carts

The Dover City Council adopted two zoning ordinances (2024-29 and 2024-30) that permit marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, testing, and retail sales in specific industrial and highway commercial zones, subject to distancing and operational requirements. The council also voted to set the stormwater utility fee to zero, transfer the utility back to the general fund, and establish a refund/credit process for fees already paid. Additionally, the council approved a $30,000 grant from remaining ARPA funds to John Wesley Church and allocated the remainder to the Unsheltered Working Group.

• Adopted Ordinance #2024-29 allowing marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, and testing in M, IPM, and A zones (8-1)
• Adopted Ordinance #2024-30 allowing retail marijuana stores in C-4 zone with 500-ft buffer from other stores (8-1)
• Failed amendment to reduce retail marijuana store distance requirement from 1 mile to 500 feet (4-5)
• Approved amendment to set retail marijuana store distance at 1 mile from other stores (6-3)
• Set stormwater utility rate to zero and transferred utility back to general fund
• Approved $30,000 ARPA grant to John Wesley Church and remainder to Unsheltered Working Group (8-1)
• Approved fire department volunteer stipend program
• Adopted Ordinance #2024-24 and #2024-25 establishing business license fees for marijuana facilities

City Council Meetings

This agenda is a notice that Dover City Council members have been invited to the Capital Holiday Celebration on December 5, 2024. It advises the public that a quorum may be present, but this is not a Council meeting and no official action will be taken.

• Capital Holiday Celebration on Thursday, December 05, 2024, 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board will review and potentially approve several contracts, including parking management, property development, and marketing services, funded by parking revenue and grants. The board will also discuss the Downtown Dover Master Plan, including creating a new nonprofit entity, property updates, and critical improvement recommendations. The meeting includes a police report and an executive session on property matters.

• Parking management contract with Colonial Parking Inc. for $5,488 from parking revenue
• Property Development Director contract with Capital City Consulting, not to exceed $88,204, from Grant in Aid FY 24
• Marketing & Media for Fire & Ice with High Ground Solutions for $8,500 from Grant in Aid FY 25
• Ice Sculptures contract with DiMartino Ice Company for $31,980 from Grant in Aid FY 25
• Discussion of 120 S. Governors Ave. and Mobility Center property updates

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Development Advisory Committee (DAC) will meet to review and comment on three applications ahead of the Planning Commission's December 16, 2024 meeting. The items include a rezoning request, a site development plan for a new office building, and a request to abandon a portion of an alley. The public may observe but not comment at this meeting; public comment will be taken at the Planning Commission hearings.

• Rezoning of 1216 McKee Road from C-PO to IO (1.23 acres, PAM Cubed Real Estate, LLC)
• Site plan for 2,140 sq ft office building at 1107 S. Bradford Street (Ditko Properties, LLC)
• Waiver requests for curbing and sidewalk at 1107 S. Bradford Street
• Alley abandonment of 1,550 sq ft between S. Governors Avenue and S. Bradford Street
• Public hearings scheduled for Planning Commission (Dec 16, 2024) and City Council (Jan 13, 2025) for rezoning

Home Events

The Special General Employee Pension Plan Board is meeting to discuss the election process for the General Employee Pension Plan. The agenda contains one substantive item, with the rest being procedural. Public participation is available via WebEx.

• Discussion of General Employee Pension Plan election process

The General Employee Pension Plan Board voted unanimously to hold a special election on February 13-14, 2025, to fill the newly added board position, and set the term to run from June 30, 2024, to June 30, 2027. The decision came after discussion about a 110-day delay since the board's August 15, 2024, vote to hold the election, with the City Clerk's Office raising code compliance questions. The board also discussed the election process, including member notification and absentee ballot procedures.

• Approved special election for added pension board seat on Feb. 13-14, 2025 (unanimous)
• Set added position term from June 30, 2024, to June 30, 2027 (unanimous)
• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 3:05 p.m. (unanimous)

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Dover Development Advisory Committee is reviewing three applications: a rezoning of 1216 McKee Road, a site plan for a new office building at 1107 S. Bradford Street, and a request to abandon part of an alley between S. Governors Avenue and S. Bradford Street. The committee will provide recommendations before these items go to the Planning Commission and City Council for public hearings.

• Rezoning Z-24-06: 1.23 acres at 1216 McKee Road from C-PO to IO, subject to COZ-1 overlay, Ordinance #2024-31
• Site plan S-24-20: 2,140 sq ft one-story office building at 1107 S. Bradford Street on 0.26 acres in C-2A zone
• Alley abandonment MI-24-10: 1,550 sq ft alley portion between S. Governors Avenue and S. Bradford Street, adjacent to six listed properties

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will hold discussions on several topics, including an update on Capital School District community concerns, the relationship between the police and Delaware State University, stormwater utility billing, and a proposed ordinance on abandoned shopping carts. The committee will also consider a volunteer stipend program for the fire department and amendments to bond council requirements. No final votes are expected, as most items are for discussion only.

• Discussion: Capital School District community concerns update (Sean Christiansen, Capital School District Board of Education)
• Discussion: Safety and relationship between Dover Police Department and Delaware State University
• Proposed Ordinance #2024-32 – Abandoned Shopping Carts (forward to council)
• Dover Fire Department Volunteer Stipend (staff recommendation: approval)
• Discussion: Stormwater Utility Billing Concerns

City Council Meetings

This is a special City Council meeting with a single substantive item: a potential land acquisition. The council will recess into executive session to have preliminary discussions about the acquisition, as permitted by state law for site acquisitions for publicly funded capital improvements or real property sales/leases. No public action is listed on the agenda other than possible action resulting from the executive session.

• Potential land acquisition discussed in executive session under 29 Del. C. §10004(b)(2)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will vote on consent agenda items including a $1,198,025 contract for Persimmon Park Place drainage improvements and a $371,660 water service replacement at Brandywine Court. They will also hold a first reading of a rezoning ordinance for 1216 McKee Road, changing it from commercial to institutional use. Presentations and discussions on freight planning, police training, trash concerns, and stormwater billing are scheduled.

• Award contract to Gateway Construction for Persimmon Park Place Drainage Basin Improvements, $1,198,025
• Award contract to Gateway Construction for Brandywine Court Condominiums Water Service Replacement, $371,660
• Award contract to Kirkin Exteriors for Puncheon Run Pump Station Roof Replacement, $52,168
• First reading of Ordinance #2024-31 to rezone 1216 McKee Road from C-PO to IO
• Subdivision waivers for Luther Village senior housing at 101 Babb Drive

The Dover City Council approved Resolution No. 2024-15, establishing Economic Development and Community Development Funds as special revenue funds, funded by proceeds from city property sales. The council also approved several contracts, including a $1,198,025 drainage basin improvement project and a $371,660 water service replacement, both awarded to Gateway Construction, Inc. A motion to retract the resolution until after the budget process failed, and the resolution passed 6-1.

• Approved Resolution 2024-15 creating Economic and Community Development Funds (6-1)
• Awarded $1,198,025 contract to Gateway Construction for Persimmon Park Place Drainage Basin Improvements (unanimous)
• Awarded $371,660 contract to Gateway Construction for Brandywine Court Condominiums Water Service Replacement (unanimous)
• Awarded $52,168 contract to Kirkin Exteriors for Puncheon Run Pump Station Roof Replacement (unanimous)
• Approved subdivision waivers for Luther Village senior housing (unanimous)
• Accepted dedication of rights-of-way and public infrastructure for Patriot Village (unanimous)
• Referred rezoning request for 1216 McKee Road to Planning Commission and set public hearing for January 13, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda as amended, removing Resolution 2024-15 for separate consideration (unanimous)

Home Events

This is a public notice, not a City Council meeting. Council members have been invited to funeral services for John C. Martin Jr. on November 23, 2024, at Dover High School. A quorum may be present, but no official action will be taken.

• Funeral services for John C. Martin Jr. at Dover High School, 1 Dover High Drive, on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 8:30 a.m.

Historic District Commission

The Dover Historic District Commission has cancelled its November 21, 2024 meeting due to lack of agenda items. The next scheduled meeting will be held on December 19, 2024.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of agenda items
• Next meeting scheduled for December 19, 2024

Police Advisory Board

The Dover Police Advisory Board is meeting to discuss adding a collegiate voice to the board, forming sub-committees, and setting research priorities. The agenda also includes public comment, adoption of minutes, and updates from agency chiefs. No formal votes or decisions are listed.

• Discussion on potential new board member Jason Williams for collegiate voice
• Discussion on formation of sub-committees
• Discussion on research priorities
• Adoption of minutes from September 19, 2024 meeting
• Public comment period

The Dover Police Advisory Board unanimously approved the formation of four subcommittees (Citizen Complaint, Community Engagement/Research, Membership, and Youth) to meet on even months, and appointed Jason Williams as the Collegiate Voice effective January 16, 2025. The board also adopted the agenda and approved the September 19, 2024 minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; discussion covered research priorities and agency updates.

• Approved formation of four subcommittees (unanimous)
• Appointed Jason Williams as Collegiate Voice for January 16, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 19, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

DDP Economic Development and Restructuring Committee

The Economic Vitality Committee will meet to discuss updates on the downtown Dover Master Plan, including properties at 120 S. Governor's Ave. and a proposed Mobility Center. The committee will also hear updates from working groups on the Critical Improvements Program, site readiness, and the Unlock the Block initiative, which includes discussions on REAP and recruitment strategies. Public comments will be taken.

• Master Plan updates: 120 S. Governor's Ave. and Mobility Center between S. Bradford & S. Governor's Ave.
• Critical Improvements Program Round 2: October 2024 applications recommended by EV approved by DDP BOD; additional applications to be discussed
• Unlock the Block: discuss REAP and recruitment strategies/incentives
• Marketing downtown Dover and redevelopment

Board of Adjustment

The Dover Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two variance applications. One seeks to allow five wall signs instead of two for a new restaurant with a drive-through at 1151 N. DuPont Highway. The other requests variances to subdivide a parcel at 207 N. West Street into four townhouse lots, including reduced lot depth and area. The board will also adopt minutes from August 14, 2024, and review a draft 2025 schedule.

• Variance V-24-05: increase permitted wall signs from 2 to 5 for restaurant at 1151 N. DuPont Highway (C-4 zone, SWPOZ Tier 3)
• Variance V-24-06: reduce minimum lot depth to 84.5 ft (from 100 ft) for Cecil Street Townhomes at 207 N. West Street
• Variance V-24-06: reduce minimum lot area to 2,366 SF (from 3,000 SF) for two townhouse lots
• Adoption of August 14, 2024 meeting minutes
• Review of draft 2025 schedule of deadlines and meetings

The Dover Board of Adjustment approved two variances for a proposed four-townhouse subdivision at 207 N. West Street, reducing the minimum lot depth to 84.5 feet and the minimum lot area to 2,366 SF for two lots. The board also approved a variance to allow five wall signs for a new Raising Cane's restaurant at 1151 N. DuPont Highway. Both decisions were unanimous (4-0).

• Approved lot depth variance (84.5 ft vs 100 ft) for four townhouse lots at 207 N. West Street (4-0)
• Approved lot area variance (2,366 SF vs 3,000 SF) for two townhouse lots at 207 N. West Street (4-0)
• Approved variance to increase wall signs from two to five for Raising Cane's at 1151 N. DuPont Highway (4-0)

DDP Parking Committee

The Dover Parking and Safety Committee is meeting to discuss downtown parking and safety issues. The agenda includes an update on the Master Plan implementation, a presentation from Colonial Parking, Inc., and a presentation on the future of parking in downtown Dover. Public comments are also scheduled.

• Update on Master Plan implementation
• Presentation by Colonial Parking, Inc.
• Presentation on the future of parking in downtown Dover
• Public comments
• Scheduling of future meetings (currently third Wed. of each month)

Home Events

The Dover Human Relations Commission is holding a regular meeting with an open forum for public comments, followed by adoption of the agenda and approval of prior minutes. Committee reports will cover assessment, community programs, school programs, by-laws, and finance. New business includes a discussion on meeting structure and an open discussion, with adjournment scheduled by 7:00 PM.

• Open forum for public comments (5-minute limit per speaker)
• Approval of minutes from October 16, 2024 meeting
• Committee reports: Assessment, Community Programs, School Programs, By-laws, Finance
• Discussion on meeting structure
• Open discussion

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two applications: a conditional use plan to convert a retail space into a child day care center, and a site development plan for a major addition to Legislative Hall. The meeting also includes routine items like minutes approval and updates.

• Conditional use application C-24-05 for JJ's Learning Experience II child day care at 261 North DuPont Highway, Suite 1
• Site development plan S-24-19 for a 56,820 SF three-story addition to Legislative Hall at 411 Legislative Avenue
• Public hearings for both applications
• Approval of minutes from October 21, 2024
• Update on City Council actions and Planning & Inspections

The Dover Planning Commission approved two major applications. It approved a conditional use plan for JJ's Learning Experience II, a child daycare center at 261 North DuPont Highway, and approved the site development plan and architectural review certification for the Legislative Hall building addition at 411 Legislative Avenue. Both approvals were unanimous (9-0).

• Approved conditional use plan C-24-05 for JJ's Learning Experience II daycare at 261 North DuPont Highway (9-0)
• Approved site development plan S-24-19 for Legislative Hall building addition at 411 Legislative Avenue (9-0)
• Approved architectural review certification for Legislative Hall addition (9-0)

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and review two proposed text amendments to the Zoning Ordinance that would establish regulations for recreational marijuana land uses, including cultivation, manufacturing, testing, retail stores, and compassion centers. The commission will make a recommendation to City Council on these ordinances.

• Ordinance #2024-29: zoning amendments for marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, testing facilities, and compassion centers in Manufacturing (M), Industrial Park Manufacturing (IPM), and Agricultural (A) zones
• Ordinance #2024-30: zoning amendments for retail marijuana stores in Highway Commercial (C-4) zone and compassion center conversions
• Public hearing and review for recommendation to City Council

The Dover Planning Commission voted to recommend denial of two proposed zoning text amendments (Ordinances #2024-29 and #2024-30) that would have permitted recreational marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, testing, and retail stores in specific zones. The votes were 5-4 in favor of denial for both ordinances. The recommendations will be transmitted to City Council, which will hold its own public hearing and final action on December 9, 2024.

• Recommended denial of Ordinance #2024-29 (marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, testing) (5-4)
• Recommended denial of Ordinance #2024-30 (retail marijuana stores) (5-4)
• Rejected an amendment to add a 750-foot courthouse distancing requirement to Ordinance #2024-29 (4-5)

Ethics Commission

The Dover Ethics Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to discuss its purpose and goals, review the current ethics code, and set future meeting dates. This is an introductory organizational meeting with no decisions or proposals on specific ethics matters.

• Discussion of Committee's Purpose and Goals
• Review of Current Ethics Code
• Setting of Future Meeting Dates

Home Events

This is a community meeting, not an official City Council meeting, where council members have been invited to discuss ongoing city-wide issues. No official action will be taken, but a quorum of council may be present.

• Community meeting at Peoples Place Church, 46 South Bradford Street
• Discussion of ongoing city-wide issues
• No official action to be taken

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee meeting scheduled for November 12, 2024, has been cancelled. No items were discussed or decided.

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss and potentially act on utility items, including awarding contracts for water service and roof replacements, and accepting infrastructure dedication. The agenda also includes council reports and a discussion on stormwater billing concerns. No other major policy items are listed.

• Award contract to Gateway Construction, Inc. for Brandywine Court Condominiums Water Service Replacement (ITB #25-0009WW) for $371,660
• Award contract to Kirkin Exteriors for Puncheon Run Pump Station Roof Replacement for $52,168
• Accept dedication of rights-of-way and public infrastructure for Patriot Village Subdivision
• Discussion on Stormwater Utility Billing Concerns (no action required)

The Council Committee of the Whole and Utility Committee met jointly, recommending approval of two contracts: Gateway Construction for the Brandywine Court Condominiums water service replacement ($371,660) and Kirkin Exteriors for the Puncheon Run Pump Station roof replacement ($52,168). They also recommended accepting the dedication of rights-of-way and public infrastructure for Patriot Village. A motion was passed to have staff review funding criteria for a federal stormwater grant and review reserve funds for a possible budget amendment. The stormwater utility billing concerns were discussed but no action was taken.

• Recommended awarding $371,660 water service replacement contract to Gateway Construction (unanimous)
• Recommended awarding $52,168 roof replacement contract to Kirkin Exteriors (unanimous)
• Recommended accepting Patriot Village rights-of-way and public infrastructure dedication (unanimous)
• Passed motion to review federal stormwater grant criteria and reserve funds for possible budget amendment (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

This agenda announces that the regular City Council meeting scheduled for November 11, 2024, is cancelled. The next regular meeting will be held on November 25, 2024.

• No meeting on November 11, 2024
• Next meeting: November 25, 2024

Home Events

The Joint General Employee Pension Plan Board, Police Pension Plan Retirement Committee, and OPEB Board will meet to review quarterly investment performance reports for the period ending September 30, 2024, prepared by Milliman, Inc. They will also review the OPEB investment policy, watch managers, and the general employee pension plan's quarterly expenditures. The boards will consider accepting the performance reports and schedule the next meeting, typically in February.

• Quarterly performance reviews for General Employee Pension Plan, Police Pension Plan, and OPEB Plan (quarter ending Sept 30, 2024)
• Investment policy review for OPEB Plan
• Investment manager review of watch managers
• Quarterly expenditures report for General Employee Pension Plan
• Schedule next joint board meeting (typically February)

The joint pension boards accepted quarterly performance and investment policy reviews, approved investment manager changes for the Police and General Employee Pension Plans, and set the next meeting for January 29, 2025. They also approved the General Pension Expenditure Report and requested correspondence on a legal opinion regarding a special election. No substantive decisions were made on the special election itself.

• Accepted Quarterly Performance Reviews for General Employee, Police, and OPEB plans (unanimous)
• Accepted OPEB Investment Policy Review with amendment to include SC1 with Vanguard Extended Duration Bond Fund (unanimous)
• Accepted Police Pension Investment Policy Review with amendment to adjust ratio to 63:37 with Vanguard as long-term vote (motion made, outcome not recorded)
• Accepted OPEB Investment Manager Review changes (unanimous)
• Approved Watch List Manager replacements for Police Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Watch List Manager replacements for General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Approved future meeting date of January 29, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved General Pension Expenditure Report (unanimous)

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Development Advisory Committee will review three applications ahead of the November 18 Planning Commission meetings: a conditional use for a child daycare center, a site plan for a Legislative Hall addition, and zoning text amendments for recreational marijuana businesses. The meeting is for agency reviewers and applicants; public comment happens at the Planning Commission hearings.

• Conditional Use C-24-05: JJ's Learning Experience II daycare at 261 North DuPont Highway, converting 12,000 SF retail space in Centre at Dover, zoned SC-2
• Site Plan S-24-19: Legislative Hall addition at 411 Legislative Avenue, 56,820 SF three-story expansion, zoned IO/ROS with Historic District overlay
• Ordinance #2024-29: zoning amendments for marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, testing facilities, and compassion centers in M, IPM, and A zones
• Ordinance #2024-30: zoning amendments allowing retail marijuana stores in C-4 Highway Commercial zone
• All items scheduled for Planning Commission on November 18, 2024 (Session 1 at 5:30 PM, Session 2 at 7:00 PM)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council is holding a special meeting with less than seven days' notice to receive a briefing on Quality of Life. The agenda contains only this single briefing item, followed by adjournment. No other business is listed.

• Quality of Life Briefing

The Dover City Council held a special meeting to receive a briefing on the Quality of Life Initiative, a coordinated enforcement and outreach effort led by the police to address crime, drug activity, and homelessness. No formal votes were taken; the council discussed the initiative's scope, funding, and potential budget impacts. A resident raised concerns about stormwater billing, and council agreed to review his bill after the meeting.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Received Quality of Life Initiative briefing (no vote)
• Agreed to review resident's stormwater bill after meeting

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Dover Development Advisory Committee is reviewing two applications: a conditional use plan to convert a former retail space into a child day care center, and a site development plan for a three-story addition to Legislative Hall. The committee provides technical review before these items go to the Planning Commission. The agenda may also include proposed zoning text amendments related to recreational marijuana if City Council acts on them.

• Conditional Use Plan C-24-05: convert 12,000 SF retail space to JJ's Learning Experience II Child Day Care Center at 261 North DuPont Highway
• Site Development Plan S-24-19: 56,820 SF three-story addition to Legislative Hall at 411 Legislative Avenue
• Legislative Hall project includes new main entrance, Plaza area with Monument Walk
• Possible referral of recreational marijuana land use and zoning text amendments to DAC for review

Home Events

This is a public open house for the Dover Freight Plan, not a City Council meeting. Council members have been invited, and a quorum may be present, but no official action will be taken. The event is informational only.

• Public Open House for the Dover Freight Plan
• Held at City Hall Conference Room, 15 Loockerman Plaza
• Scheduled for Tuesday, October 29, 2024, 5:00-6:00 p.m.
• No official Council action will be taken

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will review several items across three committees. The Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee will consider subdivision waivers for the Luther Village senior housing project and hear presentations on freight planning, police training standards, and community concerns about trash and trespassing. The Utility Committee will evaluate a $1,198,025 bid for drainage improvements at Persimmon Park Place. The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee will discuss a proposed resolution to create economic and community development funds, along with updates on the unsheltered working group, state pension, and a council dashboard.

• Subdivision waivers for Luther Village senior housing at 101 Babb Drive (Planning Commission recommends approval)
• Bid award recommendation: Gateway Construction, Inc. for Persimmon Park Place Drainage Basin Improvements, $1,198,025 (ITB #25-0006WW)
• Proposed Resolution No. 2024-15: Creating Economic and Community Development Funds
• Presentations: Dover Municipal Freight Plan and Downtown Dover Pathways; Police Officer Standards and Training Commission (POST)
• Discussions: community concerns about trash, glass bottles, needles, and trespassing

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended approving a $1,198,025 contract for Persimmon Park Place Drainage Basin Improvements and recommended adopting Resolution No. 2024-15 to create Economic and Community Development Funds. The committee also recommended approving subdivision waivers for the Luther Village senior housing project. Several presentations and discussions were informational only, including the freight plan, police training, and community concerns about trash and trespassing.

• Recommended awarding $1,198,025 contract to Gateway Construction, Inc. for Persimmon Park Place Drainage Basin Improvements (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of Resolution No. 2024-15 creating Economic and Community Development Funds (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of subdivision waivers for Luther Village senior housing (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

This is a special City Council meeting with a single substantive purpose: recessing into executive session to discuss personnel matters related to the Controller/Treasurer position and a strategy session involving legal advice on collective bargaining or potential litigation. No public decisions or votes are scheduled on the agenda, and any action resulting from the closed session would occur after it. The meeting is otherwise procedural, with no public agenda items for discussion or decision.

• Executive session on personnel matters - Controller/Treasurer
• Executive session on strategy session involving legal advice on collective bargaining or potential litigation
• Potential action resulting from executive session

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council is meeting to consider several ordinances related to recreational marijuana, including zoning for cultivation, manufacturing, testing, and retail stores, as well as business licensing and fees. The council will also discuss a wastewater master plan update, an ethics commission reform, and a proposed senior housing development. Several reports and appointments are on the consent agenda.

• Proposed Ordinance #2024-29: zoning for marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, and testing facilities
• Proposed Ordinance #2024-30: zoning for retail marijuana stores
• Proposed Ordinance #2024-24 and #2024-25: marijuana business licenses and fees
• Villages of Maple Dale (Updated Phase 3) senior citizen housing sketch plan review
• Sale of surplus property adjacent to 600 Forest Street

The Dover City Council approved several ordinances related to recreational marijuana, including zoning regulations for cultivation, manufacturing, and testing facilities, as well as business licensing fees. The council also voted to increase the required distance for these facilities from 500 to 750 feet from sensitive areas like schools and residential zones. These ordinances were given first reading and referred to the Planning Commission for further review.

• Approved Ordinance #2024-29 (marijuana cultivation/manufacturing zoning) with 750-foot distancing requirement (6-5)
• Approved Ordinance #2024-30 (marijuana retail zoning) with 750-foot distancing requirement
• Approved Ordinance #2024-24 (marijuana business license fees) for first reading
• Approved Ordinance #2024-25 (compassion center/retail store licenses) for first reading
• Approved appointment of Patricia Marney as Controller/Treasurer (7-1)
• Referred Villages of Maple Dale senior housing plan to Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Approved sale of excess property at 600 Forest Street with proceeds to community fund (unanimous)
• Formed subcommittee to review Ethics Commission code (unanimous)

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board meets to discuss property matters, including demolition of 120 S. Governors Ave. and creation of a new 501(c)(3) entity, plus second-round critical improvement recommendations. The board will also hear a police report and review updates on ARPA grant funds, marketing events, and legislative issues. An executive session on property is scheduled.

• 120 S. Governors Ave. demolition
• New 501(c)(3) entity creation
• ARPA bank account established for grant activity
• Second-round critical improvements recommendations
• OktDoverFest, Paint Dover!, Capital City Holiday, Small Business Saturday

Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals

This meeting of the Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals has been canceled. The agenda had listed one appeal of a vacant building registration fee for 674 Roberta Ave, but no decisions or discussions will occur.

• Meeting canceled
• Appeal of registration fee for 674 Roberta Ave (Bridget Anakwe) was scheduled

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership is hosting a public input session on the proposed Mobility Center, a multi-modal transportation hub. The meeting is part of the Capital City 2030 initiative and invites community members to share feedback on the transformation of downtown Dover.

• Public input session on the Mobility Center
• Multi-modal transportation hub discussion
• Part of Capital City 2030 initiative
• Event held at The Hive on Loockerman, 28 W. Loockerman St., Dover

DDP Economic Development and Restructuring Committee

The Economic Vitality Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss updates on the Master Plan, including a multi-modal transportation hub and a federal appropriations request, as well as updates from working groups on critical improvements, site readiness, and marketing. The meeting includes public comments and approval of May 2024 minutes.

• Multi-Modal Transportation Hub between S. Bradford & S. Governor’s Ave.
• DDP Federal Appropriations funding request
• Site readiness: 680-684 Forest Ave. (West End) and 120 S. Governor’s Ave.
• Unlock the Block: revolving loan fund and retention strategies
• Marketing Downtown Dover with Mosaic and Higher Ground Creative

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two new applications: a conditional use expansion for Prickly Pear Studio and a Capital School District bus parking lot. They will also revisit a deferred waiver request for the Luther Village IV senior housing project regarding rear emergency access elimination.

• Update on waiver request for elimination of rear emergency access for Luther Village IV, a 72-unit age-restricted apartment building at 101 Babb Drive
• Public hearing on C-24-04: Prickly Pear Studio LLC expansion at 872-C Walker Road, including a waiver request to eliminate bicycle parking
• Public hearing on S-24-17: Capital School District regional bus parking lot for 76 buses and 76 cars at 65 Carver Road
• Approval of minutes from September 16, 2024 meeting
• Proclamation of National Community Planning Month - October 2024

The Dover Planning Commission approved the Capital School District's regional bus parking lot for 76 buses and 76 cars, subject to a final DelDOT approval demonstrating no adverse traffic impact. The commission also approved the withdrawal of a waiver request for rear emergency access at Luther Village IV, and approved an expansion of Prickly Pear Studio with a bicycle parking waiver.

• Approved S-24-17 Capital School District Regional Bus Parking Lot (5-1, Roach abstained)
• Approved withdrawal of rear emergency access waiver for Luther Village IV (7-0)
• Approved C-24-04 Prickly Pear Studio expansion with bicycle parking waiver (7-0)
• Approved agenda as submitted (7-0)
• Approved September 16, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)

Historic District Commission

The Dover Historic District Commission will hold a public hearing and review for a proposed renovation and expansion of Legislative Hall at 411 Legislative Avenue, including a three-story addition and site improvements. The commission will also review a referred permit for demolition and renovations at 21 N. American Avenue, which includes converting a duplex into a single-family home. Other agenda items include adoption of minutes and updates on applications and certificates.

• Public hearing on HI-24-07: Legislative Hall addition at 411 Legislative Avenue, three-story addition, plaza, Monument Walk
• Review of permit HI-24-08: demolition of rear addition, rebuild as two-story, vinyl siding, front porch renovations at 21 N. American Avenue
• Conversion of duplex at 21 N. American Avenue to single-family dwelling
• Adoption of minutes from September 19, 2024
• Summary of applications 2023-2024 and architectural review certificates for 2024

Board of Adjustment

The Dover Board of Adjustment's regular meeting scheduled for October 16, 2024, has been cancelled. The next scheduled meeting will be held on November 20, 2024, at 9:00 AM. This agenda contains only a cancellation notice with no items for discussion or decision.

• Meeting cancelled for October 16, 2024
• Next meeting scheduled for November 20, 2024 at 9:00 AM

City Council Meetings

This is a notice for the City Council's agenda-setting meeting, where the Council President meets with committee chairs and city officials to set agendas for upcoming Council and Committee meetings. The meeting is open to the public and is scheduled for Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. in the City Hall Conference Room. No specific decisions or discussion items are listed in this notice.

• Agenda-setting meeting for Council and Committee meetings
• Open to all Council members and the public
• Scheduled for Oct. 16, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. at City Hall Conference Room

Home Events

The Dover Human Relations Commission is meeting to adopt an agenda, approve minutes from July 17, 2024, and receive committee reports on assessment, community programs, school programs, by-laws, and finance. Under old business, they will discuss proposed revisions to the DHRC brochure. New business includes replacing the chairperson and future training with the Delaware Department of State Division of Human and Civil Rights.

• Replacement of Chairperson
• Proposed revisions to DHRC brochure
• Future training with Delaware Department of State Division of Human and Civil Rights
• Committee reports: Assessment, Community Programs, School Programs, By-laws, Finance

The Dover Human Relations Commission elected Donyale Hall as Chairperson and Dr. Travis Mishoe Sudler as Vice-Chairperson after Chairperson Gaddis resigned. The commission also approved an amended tri-fold brochure for Council's approval and voted unanimously to continue holding monthly meetings, rejecting a proposal to shift to quarterly meetings. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with reports and announcements.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes from July 17, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Recommended Council's approval of amended tri-fold brochure (unanimous)
• Elected Donyale Hall as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Dr. Travis Mishoe Sudler as Vice-Chairperson (unanimous)
• Approved continuing monthly meetings (unanimous)

Economic Development Committee

The Dover Economic Development Committee is meeting to receive updates from several local economic development organizations, including the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Dover Partnership, Kent County Metropolitan Planning Organization, and Kent Economic Partnership. The agenda also includes adoption of the agenda and minutes from the November 14, 2023 meeting, plus mayor's announcements. No specific decisions or proposals are listed.

• Update from Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce (Dr. Dina Vendetti)
• Update from Downtown Dover Partnership (Diane Laird)
• Update from Kent County Metropolitan Planning Organization (Marilyn Smith)
• Update from Kent Economic Partnership (Linda Parkowski)
• Adoption of minutes from November 14, 2023 meeting

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will hear reports and discuss several items, including a presentation on the Dream Association's football program, an update on the wastewater master plan, lead and copper rule outreach, ethics commission reform, and recreational marijuana zoning. The committee will also introduce the new Parks and Recreation Director. No final votes are expected; most items are for discussion or direction.

• Discussion of Dream Association and Field of Dreams Football Program
• Update to City of Dover Wastewater Master Plan (staff recommends acceptance)
• Lead and Copper Rule Outreach Requirements (informational)
• Discussion of Chapter 30 Ethics Commission reform (staff to draft ordinance amendments)
• Recreational Marijuana Land Uses and Zoning Regulations (council to provide direction)

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended approval of several ordinances related to recreational marijuana land uses, including a 750-foot distancing requirement from residential zones, schools, and other sensitive uses. The committee also formed a subcommittee to review the city's Ethics Commission code and recommended accepting the updated Wastewater Master Plan. No final votes were taken; these are recommendations to the full council.

• Recommended approval of Ordinance #2024-24A (business license fees for marijuana) - unanimous
• Recommended approval of Ordinance #2024-24B (definitions) - unanimous
• Recommended approval of Ordinance #2024-25A (zoning) with 750-foot distancing requirement (6-5)
• Recommended approval of Ordinance #2024-25B (zoning) with 'licensed by State of Delaware' amendment (7-2)
• Formed subcommittee to review Ethics Commission code (Chapter 30) with 90-day deadline - unanimous
• Recommended accepting the 2024 Wastewater Master Plan - unanimous

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on annexing and rezoning 139 Acorn Lane from RS-1 to R-10, and will consider several committee recommendations including awarding an electric system study contract, discussing recreational marijuana zoning, and approving property sales. The meeting also includes proclamations, reports, and appointments.

• Public hearing and final adoption of rezoning ordinance #2024-28 for 139 Acorn Lane (14,494 SF, Byler Investments, LLC)
• Committee recommendation to award electric system study bid to Kinectrics AES
• Discussion on recreational marijuana land uses and zoning regulations
• Sale/donation of 423 Collins Drive to Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity
• Sale of surplus property adjacent to 600 Forest Street to adjacent owner

The Dover City Council approved the annexation and rezoning of 139 Acorn Lane from RS-1 to R-10, and approved the sale of 423 Collins Drive to Habitat for Humanity for $24,000. The council also approved the sale of property adjacent to 600 Forest Street for $54,600 and appointed Dr. Samuel Hoff to the Ethics Commission. The meeting included a public hearing and discussion on recreational marijuana zoning, but no final action was taken on that ordinance.

• Approved annexation of 139 Acorn Lane (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 139 Acorn Lane from RS-1 to R-10 (unanimous)
• Approved sale of 423 Collins Drive to Habitat for Humanity for $24,000 (unanimous)
• Approved sale of property adjacent to 600 Forest Street for $54,600 (unanimous)
• Appointed Dr. Samuel Hoff to Ethics Commission (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including monthly reports and library commission appointment (unanimous)
• Struck Item #19 (sale of property adjacent to 600 Forrest Street) from agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 23, 2024 meeting (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council is holding a special meeting that will immediately recess into executive session to discuss personnel matters, specifically the Controller/Treasurer search and other personnel issues. The meeting is expected to be largely procedural, with potential action following the closed session, but no public decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Executive session under 29 Del. C. §10004(b)(9) for personnel matters
• Discussion of Controller/Treasurer search
• Potential action resulting from executive session

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Dover Development Advisory Committee will meet to review two applications ahead of the Planning Commission meeting on October 21, 2024. The committee will discuss a conditional use request for a makeup studio expansion and a site plan for a Capital School District bus parking lot. Public comment is not taken at this meeting but will be accepted at the Planning Commission meeting.

• Conditional use review for Prickly Pear Studio LLC expansion at 872-C Walker Road, including waiver request to eliminate bicycle parking
• Site development plan for Capital School District Regional Bus Parking Lot at 65 Carver Road, with 76 bus and 76 car spaces
• Both properties are in Council District 4 and subject to the COZ-1 Corridor Overlay Zone

DDP Design Committee

The Dover Design Committee is meeting to discuss downtown building improvements and design enhancements. The main item is a discussion of revisions to a proposed CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) measure for 32 W. Loockerman St., with property owner Brian (Harry) Bachman of Graydie Welding attending. The committee will also review September meeting minutes, take public comments, and discuss the holiday window contest and Paint Dover! event.

• Discuss revisions to proposed CPTED measure at 32 W. Loockerman St. (property owned by Colonial Management)
• Public comments on agenda items
• Holiday window contest planning
• Paint Dover! event Oct. 8-10, 12, 13
• Review of September meeting minutes

City Council Meetings

The Controller/Treasurer Selection Committee is meeting to interview candidates for the Controller/Treasurer position. The committee will recess into executive session to discuss candidate qualifications and review interviews, then may take action on a selection. The agenda was posted with less than seven days notice due to timing of information receipt.

• Executive session for candidate interviews and review
• Potential action on Controller/Treasurer selection

Police Advisory Board

This notice advises the public that a quorum of the Dover Police Advisory Board may attend a training academy on four dates, but this is not a formal board meeting and no official action will be taken. The sessions are scheduled for October 3, 2024, November 7, 2024, January 2, 2025, and February 6, 2025, at the Dover Police Department's James L. Hutchison Public Assembly Room, 400 S. Queen Street.

• Academy dates: Oct 3, 2024; Nov 7, 2024; Jan 2, 2025; Feb 6, 2025
• Location: James L. Hutchison Public Assembly Room, 400 S. Queen Street, Dover, DE
• Quorum may be present but no official action will be taken

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Dover Development Advisory Committee is reviewing two applications at its October 2, 2024 meeting: a conditional use request to expand a makeup/aesthetics studio and a site development plan for a regional bus parking lot for the Capital School District. The committee will provide technical review comments before the applications go to the Planning Commission on October 21, 2024.

• C-24-04: Prickly Pear Studio LLC expansion at 872-C Walker Road, conditional use for makeup/aesthetics studio, waiver request to eliminate bicycle parking
• S-24-17: Capital School District Regional Bus Parking Lot at 65 Carver Road, 76 buses and 76 cars, on William Henry Middle School Campus
• Both properties are in Council District 4 and subject to COZ-1 Corridor Overlay Zone

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board will meet to discuss financial updates, including pending bank accounts for ARPA ($15.1M) and EPA ($1M) grants, as well as state funds. They will also review property updates, including lease renegotiation with EZ Pass/Transcore and demolition of 120 S. Governors Ave., and consider board nominations for FY 2025. The meeting includes a police report and an executive session on personnel.

• Bank account pending for ARPA $15.1M and EPA $1M grants
• EZ Pass/Transcore lease renegotiation
• 120 S. Governors Ave. demolition
• ITB update for 148 & 150 S. Bradford St.
• New 501(c)(3) entity creation

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole is evaluating bids for an electric system study, with staff recommending an award to Kinectrics AES. The committee will also discuss recreational marijuana land uses and zoning regulations, though no action is required on that item. Additionally, the body is considering the sale or donation of two excess real property parcels and approving a sole vendor purchase for a training system.

• Evaluation of Bids - Electric System Study (Staff Recommendation: Award to Kinectrics AES)
• Discussion - Recreational Marijuana Land Uses, Related Zoning Regulations, and Review of the Marijuana Regulations Survey
• Sale and Disposition of Excess Real Property - 423 Collins Drive (Staff Recommendation: Approve sale/donation to Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity)
• Sale and Disposition of Excess Real Property - Adjacent to 600 Forest Street (Staff Recommendation: Approve sale of surplus property to adjacent property owner)
• Sole Vendor Purchase Approval for the VirTra Training System

The Council Committee of the Whole met on September 24, 2024, and took several actions. It voted to sell the property at 423 Collins Drive to Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity for $24,000, amending the staff recommendation of $19,000. The committee also approved the sale of surplus property adjacent to 600 Forest Street for $54,600, recommended awarding the Electric System Study contract to Kinectrics AES, and approved the sole vendor purchase of the VirTra Training System. Additionally, it incorporated draft Amendment #2 into the draft recreational marijuana ordinance and requested an updated report on the state pension plan by October 29, 2024.

• Approved sale of 423 Collins Drive to Habitat for Humanity for $24,000 (7-2)
• Approved sale of surplus property adjacent to 600 Forest Street for $54,600 (unanimous)
• Recommended awarding Electric System Study contract to Kinectrics AES (unanimous)
• Approved sole vendor purchase of VirTra Training System (unanimous)
• Incorporated draft Amendment #2 into draft marijuana ordinance (unanimous)
• Requested updated state pension report by October 29, 2024 (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

This is a special meeting with a single substantive item: a closed executive session to discuss personnel matters related to the Controller/Treasurer search. The council may take action after the closed session. No other business is listed.

• Executive session under 29 Del. C. §10004(b)(9) for personnel matters
• Discussion of Controller/Treasurer search
• Potential action following executive session

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on September 23, 2024, and after a closed executive session on personnel matters, unanimously approved a motion to repost a position for seven days, changing a previously required qualification to a preferred one and notifying applicants of the reason. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and focused solely on this personnel action.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recessed into executive session for personnel matters (unanimous)
• Approved reposting position for 7 days, changing required to preferred qualification (unanimous)
• Adjourned special meeting (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will consider a resolution to donate city-owned properties to the Downtown Dover Partnership, along with several contract awards and a review of ambulance services. The consent agenda includes routine items such as minutes, committee reports, and contract awards, while the main agenda features the property donation resolution and an ambulance services review.

• Resolution No. 2024-08: Donation of city-owned properties to Downtown Dover Partnership
• Contract award to ESRI for GIS Utility Network Wastewater Upgrade ($147,000)
• Change order to Grassbusters Landscaping for Dover Little League Site Improvements ($97,000)
• Contract award to Anixter for Garrison Oak Substation bill of materials ($903,000) and steel poles ($525,535.80)
• Review of Ambulance Services with DocGo/Ambulnz

The Dover City Council approved donating six city-owned parking lots to the Downtown Dover Partnership for redevelopment, with conditions including reversion if unused in five years. The council also approved several contracts and grants, including a $903,000 substation materials contract and a $147,000 GIS upgrade. All votes were 6-1, with Councilman Lewis dissenting on each item.

• Approved donation of six city-owned parcels to Downtown Dover Partnership (6-1)
• Approved $147,000 GIS utility network upgrade contract with ESRI (6-1)
• Approved resolution to apply for Emerging Contaminants Grant Program (6-1)
• Approved $97,000 change order for Dover Little League site improvements (6-1)
• Approved $903,000 contract to Anixter for Garrison Oak substation materials (6-1)
• Approved $525,535.80 contract to Anixter for steel poles (6-1)
• Approved appointment of Sharon Conyers to Library Advisory Commission (consent agenda)
• Adopted consent agenda (6-1)

Historic District Commission

The Dover Historic District Commission will hold a public hearing and review for action on the architectural review certification for a one-story addition and renovation to the Delaware Supreme Court Building at 55 The Green. The meeting also includes adoption of minutes, summaries of applications and certificates, a resolution honoring Jonathan N. H. Street, and updates on the Certified Local Government program and the 2019 Comprehensive Plan.

• Public hearing on HI-24-06: Delaware Supreme Court Building addition and renovation at 55 The Green, zoned IO with H and SWPOZ overlays
• Resolution honoring Jonathan N. H. Street's service to the Historic District Commission
• Adoption of minutes from June 20, 2024
• Summary of applications 2023 and 2024
• Summary of Architectural Review Certificates for 2024

The Dover Historic District Commission approved the Architectural Review Certification for the Delaware Supreme Court building addition and renovation (HI-24-06), with staff comments, by a unanimous 4-0 vote. The commission also approved a resolution honoring departing member Jonathan N.H. Street. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports on past applications and updates on the Certified Local Government grant and the Lockerman Street infrastructure project.

• Approved Architectural Review Certification HI-24-06 for Delaware Supreme Court building addition and renovation (4-0)
• Approved resolution honoring Jonathan N.H. Street for service on the Historic District Commission (4-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (4-0)
• Approved minutes of June 20, 2024 meeting (4-0)

Police Advisory Board

The Dover Police Advisory Board is meeting to adopt minutes, review Freedom of Information Act guidelines and parliamentary procedures, and consider two tabled forms for membership and hearing procedures. The board will also discuss forming sub-committees, research priorities, and results from the 2024 National Night Out poll. Public comments are welcome on any item.

• Workshop on FOIA guidelines and parliamentary procedures led by Council President David Anderson and City Clerk Andria Bennett
• Adoption of PAB Form 1 – Application for Membership (tabled from 7-18-24 meeting)
• Adoption of PAB Form 3 – General Hearing Procedures (tabled from 7-18-24 meeting)
• Discussion on formation of sub-committees
• Discussion of poll results from 2024 National Night Out

The Dover Police Advisory Board unanimously adopted two forms: the Application for Membership (PAB Form 1) and the General Hearing Procedures (PAB Form 3), both previously tabled. The board also tentatively agreed to form three sub-committees (Citizen Complaints, Community Engagement, Membership & Youth) and tabled a discussion on research priorities until the next meeting. A workshop on FOIA guidelines was removed from the agenda and rescheduled.

• Adopted PAB Form 1 – Application for Membership (unanimous)
• Adopted PAB Form 3 – General Hearing Procedures (unanimous)
• Removed FOIA/parliamentary procedures workshop from agenda, rescheduled (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on research priorities until next meeting (unanimous)
• Tentatively formed sub-committees: Citizen Complaints, Community Engagement, Membership & Youth

Board of Adjustment

The regular Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for September 18, 2024, has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for October 16, 2024, at 9:00 AM. This agenda contains only a cancellation notice with no items for discussion or decision.

• Meeting cancelled for September 18, 2024
• Next meeting scheduled for October 16, 2024 at 9:00 AM

Home Events

This is a Town Hall Meeting, not an official City Council meeting. Council members are invited to attend, and a quorum may be present, but no official action will be taken. The agenda is procedural only.

• Town Hall Meeting at City Hall, 15 E. Loockerman Plaza
• Wednesday, September 18, 2024, 7:00 p.m.
• Quorum of City Council may be present
• No official action will be taken

Home Events

Members of the City of Dover Human Relations Commission have been invited to attend a Town Hall Meeting on September 18, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in City Council Chambers. The notice advises the public that a quorum of the commission may be present, but this is not a commission meeting and no official action will be taken.

• Town Hall Meeting for DHRC members
• Location: City Hall, City Council Chambers, 15 E. Loockerman Plaza
• Date and time: Wednesday, September 18, 2024, 7:00 p.m.
• Quorum may be present; no official action expected

Home Events

The Dover Human Relations Commission meeting scheduled for September 17, 2024, has been canceled. No items will be considered at this time.

• Meeting canceled

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will hold public hearings on several development applications, including a 524-unit age-restricted apartment complex, a 219,750 SF warehouse business park, and a new parking garage for Legislative Hall. The commission will also consider an annexation and rezoning request for a property on Acorn Lane and a church building addition on McKee Road. A resolution honoring the service of Mr. Chris Cooper is also on the agenda.

• C-24-02: Luther Village IV senior housing, up to 524 units in 9 phases, Phase IV is a 72-unit building at 101 Babb Drive
• S-24-13: Flex warehouse park at 350 Lafferty Lane, Phase 1 is 54,000 SF, total 219,750 SF
• S-24-14: Legislative Hall parking garage, 3-story, 127,500 SF, 344 spaces at 425 East Avenue
• AX-24-01: Annexation and rezoning of 139 Acorn Lane from RS-1 to R-10
• C-24-03: Church of the Nazarene building addition, 9,707 SF at 1430 McKee Road

The Dover Planning Commission recommended approval to City Council for the Luther Village IV senior housing project, a 72-unit age-restricted apartment building, along with several waivers and alternative design standards. The commission also recommended approval of an annexation and rezoning at 139 Acorn Lane, a church building addition, a warehouse business park Phase I, and a Legislative Hall parking garage. Action on the waiver for rear emergency access was deferred to the next meeting.

• Recommended approval of AX-24-01 annexation and rezoning at 139 Acorn Lane (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Recommended approval of C-24-02 Luther Village IV senior housing Phase IV with waivers (8-0)
• Deferred waiver for rear emergency access at Luther Village IV to October meeting (8-0)
• Approved C-24-03 Church of the Nazarene building addition (8-0)
• Approved S-24-13 Flex Use Facilities warehouse Phase I (8-0)
• Approved S-24-14 Legislative Hall parking garage (8-0)
• Approved appointment of Dr. Chandler to Architectural Review Oversight Subcommittee (8-0)

City Council Meetings

This is a notice that a quorum of Dover City Council may be present at the Dover Police Department for Thank a Police Officer Day on September 16, 2024. It is not a Council meeting, and no official action will be taken. The agenda is purely procedural and informational.

• Potential gathering at Dover Police Department for Thank a Police Officer Day

Home Events

This is a notice that Dover City Council members have been invited to join Senator Carper for a tour of the city on September 13, 2024. The tour is not a Council meeting, and no official action will be taken, though a quorum may be present.

• Tour with Senator Carper at Garrison Oak at 10:00 a.m.
• Tour at Silver Lake at 10:30 a.m.

City Council Meetings

This is a notice for an agenda-setting meeting where the Council President, committee chairs, and city officials will plan agendas for upcoming Council and Committee meetings. The meeting is open to the public and is procedural in nature, with no specific decisions or discussions listed.

• Agenda meeting for Council and Committee agendas
• Open to all Council members and the public
• Held in City Hall Conference Room

DDP Design Committee

The Dover Design Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss a proposed Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) measure for the frontage near the bus stop at 32 W. Loockerman St., a property owned by Colonial Management. A proposal from Brian (Harry) Bachman, owner of Graydie Welding, is attached for review. The committee will also handle routine items including approval of minutes and public comments.

• Review of proposed CPTED measure at 32 W. Loockerman St. (property owned by Colonial Management)
• Proposal received from Brian (Harry) Bachman, owner of Graydie Welding
• Approval of August Special Meeting minutes
• Public comments
• New business

Construction Code Board of Appeals

The Dover Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals will hear an appeal of a property maintenance citation and fines for 650 Bay Road (Dover Bay Court Plaza, LLC) regarding sidewalks and driveways. At a prior meeting, the board approved a repaving portion and deferred the barricaded area decision to staff; staff will now report back and the board will consider the next steps.

• Appeal of citation and fines under Property Maintenance Code Section 302.3 (Sidewalks and Driveways)
• Property: 650 Bay Road (Dover Bay Court Plaza, LLC)
• Board previously approved repaving portion marked in red (July 17, 2024)
• Barricaded area decision deferred to staff, with Fire Marshal and Planning and Zoning consultation

The Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals denied the appeal by Dover Bay Court Plaza, LLC regarding a property maintenance citation for the deteriorated parking lot at 650 Bay Road. The board voted unanimously to deny the appeal, meaning the owner must repair the parking lot to comply with the city code. The owner had proposed paving only part of the lot and barricading the rest, but the board found no code provision allowing such an exemption.

• Denied appeal of citation #24-00001498 for 650 Bay Road (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:23 p.m. (unanimous)

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will review several staff recommendations, including contracts for utility upgrades, substation materials, and a change order for Little League site improvements, as well as a resolution to declare excess real property exempt from sale. Public comments are welcome on any item.

• Award $147,000 sole-source contract to ESRI for GIS Utility Network Wastewater Upgrade
• Adopt Resolution No. 2024-13 to apply for Emerging Contaminants Grant Program (BIL)
• Award $97,000 change order to Grassbusters Landscaping for Little League Site Improvements
• Award $903,000 contract to Anixter for Garrison Oak Substation bill of materials
• Award $525,535.80 contract to Anixter for steel poles for Garrison Oak Substation

The Council Committee of the Whole met on September 10, 2024, and unanimously recommended several staff recommendations, including a $147,000 contract to ESRI for a GIS utility network water upgrade, a $97,000 change order to Grassbusters Landscaping for Dover Little League site improvements, and contracts to Anixter for Garrison Oak substation materials ($903,000) and steel poles ($525,535.80). The committee also recommended forwarding Resolution No. 2024-08 for the sale of excess real property to City Council. All votes were unanimous.

• Recommended $147,000 GIS utility network water upgrade contract to ESRI (unanimous)
• Recommended $97,000 change order to Grassbusters Landscaping for Little League site improvements (unanimous)
• Recommended $903,000 contract to Anixter for Garrison Oak substation bill of materials (unanimous)
• Recommended $525,535.80 contract to Anixter for Garrison Oak substation steel poles (unanimous)
• Recommended forwarding Resolution No. 2024-08 for sale of excess real property to City Council (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council is holding a special meeting with less than seven days' notice to recess into executive session. The closed session will cover potential litigation and the potential sale of land, with possible action following the session. The agenda is otherwise limited to procedural items.

• Executive session on potential litigation
• Executive session on potential sale of land
• Possible action resulting from executive session

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on September 9, 2024, and unanimously voted to terminate the Code Purple ARPA funding contract for nonperformance. The decision followed an executive session where members discussed potential litigation and a potential land sale. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recessed into executive session for legal strategy and site acquisition discussions (unanimous)
• Terminated Code Purple ARPA funding contract for nonperformance (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will consider a tentative labor contract with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and award a $125,000 engineering contract for water and wastewater asset management. The agenda also includes several presentations and discussions, such as a Loockerman Street design and a police department project outline, plus multiple proclamations and routine consent items.

• Tentative labor contract with IBEW
• Award $125,000 to Century Engineering for Water and Wastewater Asset Management Plan (RFP#24-0038WW)
• Annexation request for 139 Acorn Lane (Byler Investments, LLC)
• Loockerman Street conceptual design presentation
• Discussion on addressing patronizing or solicitation of prostitution

The Dover City Council approved a tentative labor contract with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), which includes wage increases and an accelerated advancement process for linemen. The vote was 7 in favor, 1 abstention (Lewis), and 1 absence (Sudler). The council also approved several consent agenda items, including the Loockerman Street conceptual design and a $125,000 contract for water and wastewater asset management engineering support.

• Adopted IBEW labor contract with wage increases (7-0-1, Lewis abstained)
• Approved Loockerman Street conceptual design with staff recommendations (unanimous)
• Awarded $125,000 engineering support contract to Century Engineering for asset management plan (unanimous)
• Approved annexation of 139 Acorn Lane, owned by Byler Investments (unanimous)
• Accepted July 2024 monthly reports (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 12, 2024 regular meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted consent agenda (unanimous)

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership board is holding a special meeting to take action on several contracts and agreements, including an ARPA agreement, a Mobility Center design-build agreement, a FY25 bond funds MOU, and a new entity formation. The board will also enter executive session to discuss property/land acquisition and receive updates on a $250,000 grant and a West Street property transfer.

• ARPA Agreement
• Mobility Center Design Build Agreement
• FY 25 Bond Funds MOU
• New entity formation (Capital City Transformation Alliance, Inc.)
• Annual Insurance binding agreement Sept 1, 2024 to Aug 31, 2025

The Downtown Dover Partnership board unanimously approved the design/build agreement with EDiS Company for the Mobility Center, funded largely by a signed $15.2M ARPA agreement, with about $4M still needed. The board also approved acquiring two properties on S. Bradford St. for the project, creating a new 501(c)(3) entity, and paying FY 2025 insurance. A $250,000 Grant in Aid was received, and a property transfer to the Inner City Cultural League is in progress.

• Approved ARPA agreement ($15.2M) for Mobility Center and 120 S. Governors Ave. (unanimous)
• Approved design/build agreement with EDiS Company for Mobility Center (unanimous)
• Approved creation of 501(c)(3) entity Capital City Transformation Alliance, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2025 insurance payment of $34,044 plus up to $6,000 for vacant property (unanimous)
• Approved acquisition of 148 and 150 S. Bradford St. properties for Mobility Center (unanimous)
• Approved minutes and agenda (unanimous)

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Development Advisory Committee (DAC) will review and comment on five applications ahead of the Planning Commission meeting on September 16, 2024. These include an annexation and rezoning, a senior housing expansion, a church addition, a warehouse business park, and a parking garage for Legislative Hall. The meeting is for agency reviewers and applicants; public comment is not accepted.

• Annexation and rezoning of 139 Acorn Lane (14,494 SF) from RS-1 to R-10, Ordinance #2024-28
• Luther Village IV: 72 age-restricted units in a three-story building at 101 Babb Drive, with subdivision waivers
• Church of the Nazarene addition of 9,703 SF at 1430 McKee Road, with waiver for partial elimination of upright curbing
• Three flex warehouses totaling 219,750 SF at 350 Lafferty Lane, with tree mitigation and performance standards review
• Legislative Hall parking garage: 127,500 SF, 344 spaces at 425 East Avenue, with historic district and flood hazard variances

Police Athletic League (PAL) Committee

The Dover Police Athletic League (PAL) Committee is meeting to discuss and possibly decide on the purchase of CPR manikins for training in schools, along with receiving updates and announcements. The agenda is subject to change and includes public comments.

• Purchase of CPR manikins for training in schools
• Updates and announcements
• Adjournment of PAL Committee meeting

The PAL Board approved spending $3,600 from a $3,000 Masonic Lodge donation plus other funds for CPR manikins and food/clothing for an upcoming training event. The motion was made by Kevin Baird, seconded by Dr. Chanda Jackson, and carried unanimously. The board also heard updates on recent events and a planned gun lock giveaway.

• Approved $3,600 expenditure for CPR manikins, food, and clothing for PAL CPR training (unanimous)
• Noted $3,000 donation from Masonic Lodge for manikins
• Scheduled Gun Lock Giveaway for Sept 28, 2024, 10 a.m.–noon at Dover Police Department

Police Advisory Board

This is a notice, not a meeting. Members of the Dover Police Advisory Board are invited to attend the 7th Dover Municipal Police Academy Class Graduation on August 29, 2024, at Dover High School. A quorum of the board may be present, but no official action will be taken.

• 7th Dover Municipal Police Academy Class Graduation
• Graduation at Dover High School auditorium, August 29, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.
• Notice that a quorum may be present but no official action will be taken

City Council Meetings

This is a notice, not a meeting. City Council members have been invited to attend the Dover Municipal Academy Class 7 graduation on August 29, 2024. A quorum may be present, but no official action will be taken.

• Municipal Academy Class 7 graduation at Dover High School, 1 Dover High Drive
• Notice of possible quorum of City Council, but no official meeting

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Dover Development Advisory Committee is reviewing five development applications for technical comment before public hearings. Items include an annexation/rezoning, a 524-unit senior housing project, a church addition, a warehouse business park, and a Legislative Hall parking garage. The committee provides staff review; final decisions rest with the Planning Commission and City Council.

• AX-24-01: Annexation and rezoning of 139 Acorn Lane (14,494 SF) from RS-1 to R-10, Ordinance #2024-28
• C-24-02: Luther Village IV — up to 524 age-restricted units in 9 phases; Phase IV is a 72-unit, 3-story building at 101 Babb Drive
• C-24-03: Church of the Nazarene addition at 1430 McKee Road, totaling 9,703 SF
• S-24-13: Three flex warehouses totaling 219,750 SF at 350 Lafferty Lane
• S-24-14: 344-space, 127,500 SF parking garage for Legislative Hall at 425 East Avenue

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole will not meet on August 27, 2024. The next meeting is scheduled for September 10, 2024. This agenda contains only a cancellation notice and no business items.

City Council Meetings

This agenda announces that the regular City Council meeting scheduled for August 26, 2024, is cancelled. The next regular meeting will be held on September 9, 2024. No business items are listed.

Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals

The Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals will hear an appeal of property maintenance code violations for sidewalks and driveways at two Bay Road properties owned by Blue Hen CC, LLC. The meeting is held virtually and in person at City Hall.

• Appeal of violations under Section 302.3 (Sidewalks and Driveways) for 631/S-5 Bay Rd. and 655/S-10 Bay Road
• Properties identified by tax parcel numbers ED-05-077.00-01-190.004-000 and ED-05-077.00-1-190.008-000
• Owner: Blue Hen CC, LLC

The Dover Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals denied an appeal by Blue Hen CC, LLC regarding parking lot repair violations at 631/S-5 and 655/S-10 Bay Road. The board referred the case back to staff and approved a six-month extension for compliance, with monthly updates to Code Enforcement. The decision was unanimous.

• Denied appeal of parking lot repair violations at 631/S-5 and 655/S-10 Bay Road (unanimous)
• Granted six-month extension for repairs, with monthly updates to Code Enforcement (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Human Relations Commission meeting scheduled for August 20, 2024 has been canceled. The next meeting will be held on September 17, 2024. The agenda for the canceled meeting included approval of minutes, committee reports, and old business items.

• Meeting canceled; next meeting September 17, 2024
• Approval of minutes from July 16, 2024 meeting
• Committee reports: Assessment, Community Programs, School Programs, By-laws, Finance
• Old business: Brochure update

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two development applications: a conceptual subdivision plan for six lots on Jefferson Terrace, and a site development plan for a 100,000+ square foot warehouse at 601 Garrison Oak Drive. The commission will also elect officers and make subcommittee appointments for the coming year.

• Public hearing on SB-24-01 Ekaman Subdivision: 6 lots from 2 parcels totaling 4.5754 acres, with cul-de-sac extension of Jefferson Terrace
• Public hearing on S-24-11: 100,000+ SF warehouse at 601 Garrison Oak Drive, with waiver requests for upright curbing and parking reduction
• Annual meeting: nomination and election of officers and subcommittee appointments
• Approval of minutes from July 15, 2024 meeting
• Update on City Council reappointments of Andrea B. Maucher and William L. Witham, Jr. to June 2027

The Dover Planning Commission approved a site development plan for a 100,000+ SF warehouse at 601 Garrison Oak Drive, including waivers for reduced parking and partial elimination of upright curbing. The commission also reviewed a conceptual subdivision plan for the Ekaman Subdivision but took no final action, continuing the public hearing. The meeting was otherwise procedural, including agenda and minutes approvals.

• Approved S-24-11 warehouse building at 601 Garrison Oak Drive with waivers (6-0)
• Approved agenda order change to hear warehouse application first (6-0)
• Approved July 15, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)

Home Events

The joint pension and OPEB boards will meet to review quarterly performance reports for the quarter ending June 30, 2024, and to consider investment policy and manager reviews. They will also discuss expenditures, COLA distributions, and the timeline for a new board member. The meeting is largely routine oversight of pension plans.

• Review of quarterly performance reports for General Employee, Police, and OPEB plans (Q2 2024)
• Investment policy reviews for all three plans
• Investment manager reviews for extended duration bond managers and watch list managers
• Update on Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) distributions
• Timeline for new board member and voting

The joint pension boards accepted quarterly performance reviews for all three plans and approved investment policy reviews for the Police and General Employee Pension Plans, amending the allocation to a 63:37 ratio with Vanguard as the long-duration manager. The Police Pension Plan motion was later noted as lacking quorum and will be reconsidered at the November 7, 2024 meeting. The OPEB Plan investment review was not acted on due to no quorum. The boards also approved the agenda, prior minutes, a future meeting date, the General Employee Pension Plan expenditure report, and a COLA distribution update.

• Adopted agenda and minutes of April 19, May 16, and June 5, 2024 meetings (unanimous)
• Accepted Quarterly Performance Reviews for General Employee, Police, and OPEB plans (unanimous)
• Approved Police Pension Plan Investment Policy Review with 63:37 ratio and Vanguard as long-duration manager (motion noted as lacking quorum; to be reconsidered Nov 7, 2024)
• Approved General Employee Pension Plan Investment Policy Review with 63:37 ratio and Vanguard as long-duration manager (unanimous)
• Approved future meeting date of November 7, 2024 (unanimous)
• Accepted General Employee Pension Plan Quarterly Expenditures Report (unanimous)
• Accepted COLA Update for General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Approved timeline for new board member election (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The Dover Historic District Commission's August 15, 2024 meeting is cancelled due to lack of agenda items. The next scheduled meeting is September 19, 2024.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of agenda items
• Next meeting scheduled for September 19, 2024

Board of Adjustment

The Dover Board of Adjustment will hold a public meeting to consider one variance application, approve prior minutes, and recognize a departing member. The main item is a request to reduce the side yard setback from 15 to 8.5 feet for a new restaurant with a drive-through at 1151 N. DuPont Highway.

• Variance V-24-04: reduce side yard setback from 15 to 8.5 feet for drive-through canopy at 1151 N. DuPont Highway (C-4 zone, SWPOZ Tier 3)
• Resolution honoring James N. Keller's service to the Board
• Adoption of July 17, 2024 meeting minutes
• Welcome of new member Christian Joshua Swalm and returning member Richard D. Senato

The Dover Board of Adjustment approved a variance (V-24-04) allowing a reduction of the side yard setback from 15 feet to 8.5 feet for a proposed Raising Cane's restaurant at 1151 N. DuPont Highway. The variance is for a drive-through canopy, and the board voted unanimously 4-0. The board also approved the agenda, the July 17, 2024 minutes, and a resolution honoring former member James N. Keller.

• Approved variance V-24-04 for side yard setback reduction from 15 to 8.5 feet (4-0)
• Approved agenda with resolution for James N. Keller (4-0)
• Approved July 17, 2024 meeting minutes with correction (4-0)
• Adopted resolution honoring James N. Keller's service (4-0)

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole meets to hear presentations and discuss several items, including a proposed conceptual design for Loockerman Street, a $125,000 contract for water and wastewater asset management engineering support, and an annexation request for 139 Acorn Lane. The agenda also includes briefings on overdose response, blood donations, MPO projects, and police department plans. Most items are for discussion only, with no committee action required.

• Loockerman Street conceptual design presentation with staff recommendation to implement with ongoing utility upgrade project
• Evaluation of proposals for Water and Wastewater Asset Management Plan engineering support, RFP#24-0038WW, $125,000 award to Century Engineering, LLC
• Annexation request for 139 Acorn Lane, owned by Byler Investments, LLC
• Discussion on addressing patronizing or solicitation of prostitution with Dover Police Department
• Dover Police Department Major Project Outline FY2025 briefing

The Council Committee of the Whole met on August 13, 2024, and took several actions. The Safety, Advisory, and Transportation Committee recommended acceptance of the Loockerman Street conceptual design, which includes replacing cobblestones with Flexi-Pave and keeping bricks in walking areas. The Utility Committee recommended awarding a $125,000 engineering support contract to Century Engineering, LLC for the Water and Wastewater Asset Management Plan, and recommended annexation of 139 Acorn Lane. All other items were informational or reports with no formal action required.

• Recommended Loockerman Street conceptual design (unanimous)
• Recommended $125,000 contract to Century Engineering for asset management plan (unanimous)
• Recommended annexation of 139 Acorn Lane (unanimous)

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board is holding a special meeting to vote on the Downtown Dover Pathways/Loockerman Street design presented by the Dover Kent MPO and Kittelson & Associates. The board will also hear a progress update on the S. Bradford/S. Governor's Mobility Center project, including discussion of a Design Build agreement. The meeting includes public comment.

• Vote on Downtown Dover Pathways/Loockerman Street Design
• Presentation on S. Bradford/S. Governor's Mobility Center project progress
• Discussion of Design Build agreement for Mobility Center
• Approval of June minutes

City Council Meetings

This is a special City Council meeting with a single substantive item: recessing into executive session to discuss personnel matters and potential litigation. No public decisions or votes are scheduled on the agenda, and the meeting is expected to adjourn after the closed session. The agenda is subject to change, and the public can attend virtually via WebEx.

• Executive session under 29 Del. C. §10004(b)(9) for personnel matters
• Executive session under 29 Del. C. §10004(b)(4) for potential litigation strategy
• Possible action resulting from executive session
• Virtual meeting access via WebEx with dial-in and link provided

The special meeting was largely procedural, with the council entering executive session to discuss personnel and potential litigation. After the session, the council unanimously authorized staff to present a proposal to the employee based on their discussion and to update 401A plan documents. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous, Lewis and Sudler absent)
• Recessed into executive session for personnel and legal strategy (unanimous)
• Authorized staff to present employee proposal based on executive session discussion (unanimous)
• Authorized City Manager and Finance to update 401A plan documents (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will consider a resolution enacting a moratorium on any program requiring backflow preventers, a tentative labor contract with AFSCME, and a proposed ordinance amending the general employee pension plan. The agenda also includes appointments, committee reports, and a first reading of a rezoning request for 139 Acorn Lane.

• Resolution No. 2024-12: Moratorium on any program requiring backflow preventers
• Tentative labor contract with AFSCME
• Proposed Ordinance #2024-07: Amending Chapter 80 Personnel, pension plans and retirement benefits
• First reading of Ordinance #2024-28: Rezoning 139 Acorn Lane from RS-1 to R-10
• Appointments to Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment, and Utility Committee

The Dover City Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2024-12, enacting a one-year moratorium on any program requiring backflow preventers, except for moderate or high-risk systems. The council also approved the AFSCME labor contract, adopted Ordinance 2024-07 amending the General Employee Pension Plan, and appointed Liam Gallagher as Deputy City Solicitor by a 7-2 vote. Several other appointments and routine items were approved by consent agenda.

• Adopted Resolution 2024-12 enacting one-year backflow preventer moratorium (unanimous)
• Adopted AFSCME tentative labor contract (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-07 amending General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Appointed Liam Gallagher as Deputy City Solicitor (7-2)
• Approved Board of Adjustment appointment of Ronald Coburn (unanimous)
• Approved Planning Commission appointment of Michael W. Lewis (consent agenda)
• Deferred City Manager's Report to September (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items including committee reports and monthly reports (unanimous)

Ethics Commission

The Dover Ethics Commission is meeting to review a complaint. The discussion will occur in executive session, which is closed to the public, to protect personal privacy. After the closed session, the commission may take action on the complaint.

• Review of complaint in executive session
• Potential action resulting from executive session

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Development Advisory Committee (DAC) will meet to review and comment on two applications before the Planning Commission's August 19, 2024 meeting. The meeting is for agency reviewers and applicants; public comment is not accepted. The applications are a conceptual subdivision plan and a site development plan for a warehouse building.

• SB-24-01: Conceptual subdivision plan for Ekaman Subdivision, creating 6 lots from 2 parcels totaling 4.5754 acres, with 5 residential lots and a stormwater area, including a cul-de-sac extension of Jefferson Terrace
• S-24-11: Site development plan for a 100,000+ SF warehouse at 601 Garrison Oak Drive, with waiver requests for partial elimination of upright curbing and reduction of parking requirement
• Both properties are in Council Districts 2 and 3 respectively
• The DAC meeting is in-person and virtual via Webex; public comment is deferred to the Planning Commission meeting

DDP Design Committee

The Dover Design Committee is holding a special meeting to discuss downtown building improvements, including final approval of FY 23 Façade & Architectural grants, a proposed CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) measure, and a discussion on vacant store windows. The meeting also includes routine items like approving minutes and public comments.

• The Hive at 28 W. Loockerman St. work complete
• Final approval of FY 23 Façade & Architectural grants
• Colonial Management: 32 W. Loockerman St. frontage near bus stop
• Proposed CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) measure
• Discussion on vacant store windows

Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals

The Dover Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals will hold a virtual meeting to consider one appeal. Jesse Allen appeals a property maintenance code citation regarding the registration fee for a vacant building at 3074 N. Dupont Hwy. The board may decide to uphold, modify, or overturn the fee.

• Appeal of registration fee under Section 22-403 (Vacant Buildings) for 3074 N. Dupont Hwy

The Dover Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals denied Jesse Allen's appeal of the fifth-year vacant building registration fee of $5,000 for 3074 N. Dupont Highway. The board upheld the Code Enforcement Officer's decision, finding the property had been vacant for 11 years and work had not progressed in an expedient manner. The motion to deny was unanimous.

• Denied appeal of $5,000 vacant building registration fee for 3074 N. Dupont Hwy (unanimous)
• Upheld Code Enforcement Officer's determination that property is in fifth year of vacancy
• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:25 p.m.

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover City Council Committee of the Whole is holding a special meeting to discuss recreational marijuana land uses and related zoning regulations, including proposed Ordinances #2024-24 and #2024-25. No committee action is required; the discussion is informational only.

• Discussion of recreational marijuana land uses and zoning regulations
• Review of proposed Ordinance #2024-24
• Review of proposed Ordinance #2024-25

The committee held an informational session on proposed ordinances #2024-24 and #2024-25, which would regulate recreational marijuana businesses in Dover. No formal action was taken; the item was for discussion only. The draft separates retail from cultivation, manufacturing, and testing, and includes distancing requirements and odor control provisions.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• No action taken on recreational marijuana ordinances; discussion only

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 personal files. The commission may take action after the closed session.

• Review of complaint in executive session
• Potential action resulting from executive session

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Dover Development Advisory Committee will review two development applications: a conceptual subdivision plan for six lots on Jefferson Terrace and a site development plan for a large warehouse at 601 Garrison Oak Drive. The meeting is open to the public both in-person and virtually.

• SB-24-01: Conceptual subdivision plan for Ekaman Subdivision, creating 6 lots (5 residential + stormwater) on 4.5754 acres, with cul-de-sac extension of Jefferson Terrace
• S-24-11: Site development plan for 100,000+ sq ft warehouse at 601 Garrison Oak Drive, with waiver requests for curb elimination and parking reduction
• Property zoned IPM-2 and within Source Water Protection Overlay Zone (Tier 2)
• Previous plan for Jefferson Terrace subdivision (SB-13-06) expired; prior waiver requests unsuccessful

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole will discuss four items: approving the 2024 Emergency Operations Plan for state review, a possible moratorium on backflow preventer programs, an update on state pensions, and mayoral compensation. The first two items have staff recommendations for approval; the latter two are informational only.

• Discussion of City of Dover Emergency Operations Plan (staff recommends sending 2024 update to State of Delaware)
• Possible moratorium on programs requiring backflow preventers (Resolution No. 2024-12)
• Update on state pension (no action required)
• Discussion of mayoral compensation (no action required)

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended forwarding Resolution No. 2024-12 to City Council with a recommendation of approval for a one-year moratorium on programs requiring backflow preventers. The committee also recommended sending the 2024 Emergency Operations Plan to the State of Delaware for acceptance. Additionally, the committee recommended delaying any further mayoral compensation increases until after the April 2027 election, tying future increases to employee raises.

• Recommended forwarding Resolution No. 2024-12 to City Council for a one-year moratorium on backflow preventer requirements (unanimous)
• Recommended sending the 2024 Emergency Operations Plan to the State of Delaware for acceptance (unanimous)
• Recommended delaying further mayoral compensation increases until after the April 2027 election, tied to employee raises (unanimous)
• Rescinded motion to allow staff to gather employee information for state pension plan decision

Ethics Commission

The Dover Ethics Commission is meeting to adopt its agenda, then recessing into executive session to discuss documents excluded from public record, specifically personnel or privacy-related files. The commission will review findings in the closed session and may take action afterward. The agenda is subject to change.

• Executive session to discuss documents excluded from public record under §10002(l)(1)
• Review of findings
• Potential action resulting from executive session

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will consider a resolution enacting a moratorium on recreational marijuana land uses while zoning regulations are developed, and will vote on several contract awards and appointments. The agenda also includes first and final readings of ordinances on pension plan amendments and fee changes, plus proposed cancellation of August meetings.

• Resolution No. 2024-11: Moratorium on recreational marijuana land uses
• Contract award to A-Del Construction for Well #9 Improvements, $1,699,000
• Contract award to AUI for Garrison Oak Steel, $162,688.82
• Proposed Ordinance #2024-07: Amending General Employee Pension Plan
• Proposed Ordinance #2024-27: Amending fees and fines for planning, subdivisions, zoning

The Dover City Council adopted Resolution No. 2024-11, imposing a moratorium on recreational marijuana land uses until December 31, 2024, to allow time for zoning regulations. The council also approved contracts for Well #9 improvements and Garrison Oak Steel, adopted labor contracts with DOE and IBEW, and passed a fee schedule ordinance. Several committee recommendations were approved, including extending a marijuana survey deadline to August 31, 2024.

• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-11, moratorium on recreational marijuana land uses (7-2)
• Approved $1,699,000 contract to A-Del Construction for Well #9 improvements (8-1)
• Approved $162,688.82 contract to AUI for Garrison Oak Steel (8-1)
• Adopted labor contract with Dover Organization of Employees (unanimous)
• Adopted labor contract with International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #2024-27 amending Appendix F fees (8-1)
• Approved interview committee for Controller/Treasurer (unanimous)
• Approved cancellation of August 26-27, 2024 meetings (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The City of Dover Historic District Commission meeting scheduled for July 18, 2024, has been cancelled due to lack of agenda items. The next scheduled meeting will be held on August 15, 2024.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of agenda items
• Next meeting scheduled for August 15, 2024

Police Advisory Board

The Dover Police Advisory Board is meeting to formally approve its leadership, adopt its bylaws and three standard forms (membership application, citizen complaint, hearing procedures), and pass three resolutions regarding a youth sub-committee, a Delaware State University board seat, and a 3-year term expiration schedule. The board will also receive updates from agency chiefs and hear public comments.

• Adoption of Police Advisory Board by-laws
• Adoption of PAB Form 1 – Application for Membership
• Adoption of PAB Form 2 – Citizen Complaint Form
• Adoption of Resolution 24-01: Youth Sub-Committee / Board Seat Assigned
• Adoption of Resolution 24-02: Board Seat Assigned to Delaware State University

The Dover Police Advisory Board held its first formal meeting, electing Dr. Chanda Jackson as Chairperson and Rev. Dr. Carol Boggerty as Vice Chairperson. The board unanimously adopted its by-laws, a citizen complaint form, and three resolutions designating board seats for a high school student, Delaware State University, and establishing a term expiration schedule. The membership application and general hearing procedures were tabled for revisions.

• Elected Dr. Chanda Jackson as Chairperson and Rev. Dr. Carol Boggerty as Vice Chairperson (unanimous)
• Adopted Police Advisory Board By-Laws (unanimous)
• Adopted Citizen Complaint Form (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 24-01: Youth Sub-Committee/Board Seat (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 24-02: Board Seat for Delaware State University (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 24-03: 3-Year Term Expiration Schedule (unanimous)
• Tabled Application for Membership for revisions (unanimous)
• Tabled General Hearing Procedures (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Dover Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two items: a variance request for a non-residential building at 1494 McKee Road, and an appeal concerning the denial of demolition certifications for two historic buildings on S. Bradford Street. The board will also approve minutes from the June 20, 2024 meeting.

• Variance V-24-02: 1494 McKee Road, front yard setback relief in Corridor Overlay Zone (40-50 ft requirement), owner Abhay Patel
• Appeal V-24-03: Historic Society of Dover appeal of Principal Planner determination regarding public hearing requirement
• Related to demolition of 148 and 150 S. Bradford Street, owned by Russell/Dee Ann Widder and CEI Properties LLC
• Appeal concerns Planning Commission consideration of HI-24-02 and HI-24-03
• Meeting minutes of June 20, 2024 to be adopted

The Board of Adjustment dismissed an appeal (V-24-03) for lack of jurisdiction and approved a variance (V-24-02) for a property at 1494 McKee Road, allowing a future community center building to exceed the 50-foot front yard setback in the Corridor Overlay Zone. The variance was approved unanimously (4-0) after a public hearing with both support and opposition. The next step is a Conditional Use application before the Planning Commission.

• Dismissed appeal V-24-03 (Historical Society of Dover) for lack of jurisdiction (4-0)
• Approved variance V-24-02 for 1494 McKee Road to exceed 50-ft front yard setback (4-0)
• Approved June 20, 2024 meeting minutes with correction (4-0)

Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals

The Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals will meet to elect a chair and hear an appeal of a property maintenance citation and fines issued to Dover Bay Court Plaza, LLC for 650 Bay Road. The citation concerns Chapter 3, Section 302.3 of the property maintenance code, which covers sidewalks and driveways. The meeting is open to the public with virtual access via WebEx.

• Election of Chair
• Appeal of citation and fines for sidewalks and driveways at 650 Bay Road (Dover Bay Court Plaza, LLC)

The Dover Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals heard an appeal from Dover Bay Court Plaza, LLC regarding a citation for a deteriorated parking lot at 650 Bay Road. The board voted to accept the proposed repaving of the red-highlighted area and defer the proposed barricaded area to staff for review by the Fire Marshal and Planning Department. The board will schedule a future meeting to review that portion. The $100 fine for the citation was not waived.

• Elected Andre Boggerty as Chair (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted proposed repaving of red-highlighted area (unanimous)
• Deferred proposed barricaded area to Fire Marshal and Planning Department review (unanimous)
• Scheduled future meeting to review barricaded area after staff input

Historical

The Dover Human Relations Commission is holding a regular meeting with an open forum for public comments, followed by adoption of the agenda and approval of June minutes. Committee reports cover assessment, community programs, school programs, by-laws, and finance. Old business includes a discussion on brochure updates and an open discussion, with adjournment scheduled by 7:00 p.m.

• Open forum for public comments (5-minute limit per person)
• Approval of minutes from June 18, 2024 meeting
• Committee reports: Assessment, Community Programs, School Programs, By-laws, Finance
• Discussion on brochure updates
• Open discussion

The Dover Human Relations Commission met on July 16, 2024, and unanimously approved an updated tri-fold brochure as amended, including a request to add both phone numbers for Commissioner White. The meeting was largely procedural, with committee reports and discussions on community programs, school engagement, and youth activities, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted June 18, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved updated tri-fold brochure as amended (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and review a site development plan for a 5,120 SF warehouse at 1285 College Park Drive, including several waiver requests. The meeting also includes routine items like approving minutes, updates, and the annual election of officers.

• Public hearing for S-24-10 Stoltzfus LLC Warehouse at 1285 College Park Drive (5,120 SF addition, 1.507 acres, M zone)
• Waiver requests: parking reduction, elimination of upright curbing, fence component, and partial sidewalk elimination
• Adoption of minutes from June 17, 2024
• Annual meeting: nomination and election of officers and subcommittee appointments

The Dover Planning Commission approved a site development plan for a 5,120-square-foot warehouse addition at 1285 College Park Drive, including all requested waivers (parking reduction, partial sidewalk elimination, fence component elimination, and upright curbing elimination) and the Performance Standards Review Application. The motion passed 7-0. The Commission also voted 7-0 to delay officer nominations and subcommittee appointments until City Council confirms Planning Commission member reappointments.

• Approved S-24-10 Stoltzfus LLC Warehouse site plan with all waivers (7-0)
• Approved waiver for parking reduction from 19 to 11 spaces (part of S-24-10)
• Approved waiver for partial elimination of sidewalk (part of S-24-10)
• Approved waiver for elimination of fence component of opaque barrier (part of S-24-10)
• Approved waiver for elimination of upright curbing (pre-approved by City Planner, part of S-24-10)
• Approved Performance Standards Review Application for S-24-10 (7-0)
• Delayed officer nominations and subcommittee appointments until City Council confirms member reappointments (7-0)

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover Council Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss and evaluate several items, including a possible moratorium on recreational marijuana land uses, a $1.7 million contract for Well #9 improvements, a steel contract bid, a pension ordinance amendment, and a public space naming policy. The committee will forward recommendations to the full City Council.

• Discussion on possible moratorium on recreational marijuana land uses; staff recommends forwarding Resolution No. 2024-11 for approval
• Evaluation of bids for Well #9 Improvements; staff recommends awarding contract to A-Del Construction for $1,699,000 (ITB #24-0026WW)
• Evaluation of bids for Garrison Oak Steel; staff recommends awarding contract to AUI for $162,688.82 (Bid #24-0037EL)
• Proposed Ordinance #2024-07 amending Chapter 80 Personnel, Article IV Pension Plans (General Employee Pension Plan)
• Discussion on public space naming policy update (Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee)

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended approval of Resolution No. 2024-11, a moratorium on recreational marijuana land uses, with an extended survey deadline of August 31, 2024, and an update to be brought back to the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee. The committee also recommended awarding contracts for Well #9 Improvements and Garrison Oak Steel, and approved a pension ordinance update. A public space naming policy was deferred back to staff for ordinance drafting.

• Recommended approval of Resolution No. 2024-11 (moratorium on recreational marijuana land uses) with survey extended to Aug 31, 2024 (carried, Anderson no, Lewis abstaining)
• Recommended awarding Well #9 Improvements contract to A-Del Construction for $1,699,000 (unanimous)
• Recommended awarding Garrison Oak Steel contract to AUI for $162,688.82 (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Proposed Ordinance #2024-07 amending General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Deferred public space naming policy back to staff to draft an ordinance (unanimous)
• Recommended placing hard copy of marijuana survey in electric bills (carried, Anderson, Arndt, Shevock no)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council will hold its regular meeting on July 8, 2024, with a consent agenda covering routine items and several ordinances for first or final reading. Key actions include final votes on ordinances amending business license fees and off-road vehicle regulations, and a first reading of a zoning and subdivision fee ordinance. The council will also consider implementing Title VI procedures to comply with EPA requirements for federal funding.

• Final reading of Ordinance #2024-22 amending Chapter 26 (Business Licenses) and Appendix F (Fees and Fines)
• Final reading of Ordinance #2024-23 amending Chapter 106 (Traffic and Vehicles) off-road vehicle regulations
• First reading of Ordinance #2024-27 amending Appendix F, Chapter 82 (Planning), Appendix A (Subdivisions), Appendix B (Zoning)
• Title VI procedures to comply with EPA requirements for federal funding
• Annual review and approval of Energy Commodity Risk Management policy

The Dover City Council adopted Ordinance #2024-23, amending off-road vehicle regulations to prohibit use on public property, require a city license for private property use, and set fines up to $4,000 for repeat violations. The council also adopted Ordinance #2024-22, updating business license definitions and fees, and approved a first reading of Ordinance #2024-27 to increase planning and zoning fees by 3%. Additionally, the council implemented new Title VI procedures for federal funding compliance.

• Adopted Ordinance #2024-23 off-road vehicle regulations (8-0, Sudler absent)
• Adopted Ordinance #2024-22 business license fee updates (7-1, Lewis no, Sudler absent)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance #2024-27 planning/zoning fee increase (unanimous)
• Implemented Title VI procedures and intake form (7-0, Lewis abstain, Sudler absent)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and monthly reports (unanimous)
• Accepted Utility Committee recommendation on energy risk policy (unanimous)

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Development Advisory Committee will review a Site Development Plan for a new 5,120 square foot warehouse at 1285 College Park Drive. The meeting focuses on agency comments regarding the draft report, including requests to reduce parking requirements and eliminate certain curbing and sidewalks. Public comment is not accepted at this meeting; residents may provide input at the subsequent Planning Commission meeting on July 15, 2024.

• Review of Site Development Plan for a 5,120 SF warehouse at 1285 College Park Drive
• Waiver request for reduction of parking requirement
• Waiver request for elimination of upright curbing
• Waiver request for partial elimination of sidewalk

Downtown Dover Partnership Board

The Downtown Dover Partnership Board is meeting to discuss property updates, including demolitions and renovations, along with the FY2025 budget and workplan. The board will also review pending grant funding, including ARPA and state bond bill requests, and hear a police report.

• Demolition of 680-684 Forest St. (former Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing)
• New A/C at 136 W. Loockerman Street (Key to Life)
• ITB request for demolitions at 120 S. Governor's Ave and 148/150 S. Bradford St.
• Pending grants: ARPA $15.1M, DE Bond Bill $10M, federal request $5M, EPA $1M brownfield, Grant-in-Aid $230K
• Design/Build agreement with Colonial Parking, Inc.

Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

The Dover Development Advisory Committee will review a site development plan for a 5,120-square-foot warehouse at 1285 College Park Drive, including waiver requests for parking, curbing, and sidewalk requirements. The meeting is open to the public in person and virtually.

• Site plan for 5,120 SF warehouse at 1285 College Park Drive
• Waiver requests: parking reduction, elimination of upright curbing, partial sidewalk elimination
• Property zoned M (Manufacturing), 1.507 acres in College Business Park

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole met on June 26, 2024, and recommended approval of two items: the annual Governing Policy for Energy Commodity Risk Management and Proposed Ordinance #2024-27, which amends city fees and fines for planning, subdivisions, and zoning. The committee also received an update on the Joint Use Agreement with Dover Air Force Base, which is awaiting signature by the Secretary of Defense, but took no action on it.

• Recommended approval of the Governing Policy for Energy Commodity Risk Management (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Proposed Ordinance #2024-27, amending fees and fines (carried, Mr. Lewis voting no)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council adopted the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 budget ordinance, including a $5,000 increase to the mayor's salary, by a 6-2 vote. The council also adopted several code enforcement ordinances, set new electric, water, and wastewater rates, and deferred two proposed ordinances related to recreational marijuana retail and zoning to a future meeting.

• Adopted FY2024/2025 budget ordinance with $5,000 mayor salary increase (6-2)
• Adopted Electric, Water, and Wastewater Rates and Tariffs (7-1)
• Approved removing properties from 10-year tax abatement program with 90-day grace period (7-1)
• Approved option two of General Pension Check disbursement (8-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #2024-14 amending general penalty provisions (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #2024-15 amending buildings and building regulations (8-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #2024-16 amending fire prevention and protection (8-0)
• Deferred Proposed Ordinances #2024-24 and #2024-25 on recreational marijuana to future meeting

Board of Adjustment

The Dover Board of Adjustment approved both variance requests for the Legislative Hall Parking Garage project, allowing construction within the flood hazard area. Variance 1 reduces the required impervious surface reduction from 15% to 5%, and Variance 2 recognizes that 48.7% of the lot is in the floodplain, exceeding the 33% threshold. Both approvals were unanimous, with one abstention on Variance 2.

• Approved Variance Request #1 to decrease impervious surface reduction from 15% to 5% (4-0)
• Approved Variance Request #2 to recognize 48.7% of lot in flood hazard area (3-0, Wagner abstained)
• Approved agenda as presented (4-0)
• Approved minutes of October 18, 2023, with correction (4-0)

Historic District Commission

The Dover Historic District Commission approved the demolition of the former Acme grocery store at 120 S. Governors Avenue, with staff recommendations and a modified condition regarding utility capping. The vote was unanimous (4-0). The commission also approved the agenda and the minutes of the May 16, 2024 meeting, and received updates on prior applications, including the reversal of demolition denials for 148 and 150 S. Bradford Street by the Planning Commission.

• Approved demolition of 120 S. Governors Ave (HI-24-05) with staff recommendations (4-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (4-0)
• Approved minutes of May 16, 2024 meeting (3-0, Street abstained)

Home Events

The Dover Human Relations Commission appointed Donyale Hall as the Title VI Coordinator for the City of Dover and unanimously adopted a discrimination complaint and compliance review/grievance procedure and non-discrimination statement. The commission also deferred committee reports and brochure updates to the next meeting. Council President Anderson indicated support for the changes, noting they would be promoted on the city's website and social media.

• Appointed Donyale Hall as Coordinator for the City of Dover (unanimous)
• Adopted discrimination complaint and compliance review/grievance procedure and non-discrimination statement (unanimous)
• Deferred committee reports/updates to next meeting (unanimous)
• Deferred brochure updates discussion to next meeting (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission approved a conditional use site plan for a 129-foot wireless tower at 640 Lafferty Lane and a site development master plan for Procter & Gamble warehouse expansions and parking improvements. It also reversed the Historic District Commission's denial of demolition for two buildings at 148 and 150 S. Bradford Street, allowing their removal for a future mobility center. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with no other substantive decisions.

• Approved C-24-01 wireless tower at 640 Lafferty Lane (6-0)
• Approved S-24-09 Procter & Gamble warehouse expansions and parking improvements (6-0)
• Reversed Historic District Commission denial of demolition for 148 and 150 S. Bradford Street (4-2)
• Approved agenda and minutes (6-0)

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole met on June 11, 2024, and took several actions. It recommended awarding contracts for the Inflow and Infiltration Rehabilitation Project and for Relay Panels at Garrison Oak Technology & Business Park, and approved the FY2024 Audit Program. It also approved Ordinance #2024-22 (business license fee changes) and Ordinance #2024-23 (off-road vehicle regulations). However, the committee deferred Proposed Ordinances #2024-24 and #2024-25, which would regulate recreational marijuana businesses, to a future special meeting for further discussion.

• Recommended awarding $1,279,530 contract to Insituform Technologies for FY24 Inflow & Infiltration Rehabilitation Project (unanimous)
• Recommended awarding $251,201 contract to Electrical Power Products for Relay Panels at Garrison Oak Technology & Business Park (unanimous)
• Recommended accepting FY2024 Audit Program (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance #2024-22 amending business license fees, with deletion of online sales license lines (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance #2024-23 amending off-road vehicle regulations (unanimous)
• Deferred Proposed Ordinances #2024-24 and #2024-25 on marijuana licensing and zoning to a future special meeting (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council voted to censure Councilman William F. Hare for violating ethical standards by contacting a city employee about her duties. The censure was adopted by a 5-2 vote with one abstention. The council also approved the 2024 CDBG Action Plan, rezoned property at 1241 College Park Drive, and adopted a new ambulance service fee.

• Adopted Resolution 2024-18 censuring Councilman Hare (5-2, Hare abstained)
• Approved 2024 Community Development Block Grant Action Plan ($309,594)
• Rezoned 1241 College Park Drive from C-PO to IO (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-12 establishing $1.50/month residential and $6.50/month commercial ambulance service fee (7-1)
• Approved two-year labor contract with Fraternal Order of Police (7-0, Lewis abstained)
• Approved Stormwater Utility Credits, Grants, and Appeals Manual (7-0, Lewis abstained)
• Approved appointments to Election Board and Construction Code Board of Appeals
• Set public hearing for June 24 on Electric Revenue Fund Budget

Home Events

The General Employee Pension Plan Board approved Ordinance #2024-07, amending the city's pension plan, with the exception of Sections 80-509, 80-510, and 80-518. The board then separately amended and adopted each of those sections, incorporating changes such as annual reviews of survivor lists, eligibility clarifications for full-time students, removal of an outdated section, and annual statements of contributions. The board also discussed a 15% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) update, considering a three-payment distribution for some retirees, but took no formal action.

• Approved Ordinance #2024-07 except Sections 80-509, 80-510, 80-518 (unanimous)
• Amended and adopted Section 80-509 (unanimous)
• Amended and adopted Section 80-510 (unanimous)
• Amended and adopted Section 80-518 (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Human Relations Commission approved modifications to its intake form to meet federal Title VI requirements, but tabled the appointment of a coordinator for the grievance process. The commission also approved funding for a booth at the African American Festival and new shirts for members. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved intake form changes to meet Title VI requirements (unanimous)
• Tabled appointment of coordinator for Human Relations Commission (unanimous)
• Approved $150 for African American Festival booth (unanimous)
• Approved new shirts for DHRC members (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission approved a rezoning request for 1241 College Park Drive, a new office building at 1413 New Burton Road, and a revised site plan for the Leander Lakes III apartments. The commission also granted one-year extensions for two previously approved developments. All votes were 7-0.

• Approved rezoning of 1241 College Park Drive from C-PO to IO (7-0)
• Approved office building at 1413 New Burton Road with sidewalk and curbing waivers (7-0)
• Approved revised Leander Lakes III apartment plan with relocated access drive (7-0)
• Granted one-year extension for Dover Apartments at Leipsic Road (7-0)
• Granted one-year extension for Stonebrook East PND (7-0)
• Approved agenda and April 15, 2024 minutes (7-0)

Home Events

The joint pension boards accepted quarterly performance reviews for the General Employee, Police, and OPEB plans, and the General Employee Pension Plan's quarterly expenditures report. They also accepted a COLA update and scheduled a special meeting for June 5, 2024, to discuss a legal opinion. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• 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)
• Accepted Quarterly Expenditures Report for General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted COLA Update for General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Approved special meeting date of June 5, 2024, for General Employee Pension Plan Board (unanimous)
• Approved future meeting date of September 15, 2024 (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The Dover Historic District Commission denied demolition requests for two buildings at 148 and 150 S. Bradford Street, proposed by the Downtown Dover Partnership for a future parking garage. The votes were 2-1 in favor of denial for each property, with Chairman Czerwinski dissenting. The Commission also recommended approval of the Legislative Hall Parking Garage at 425 East Avenue, including a setback waiver.

• Denied demolition of building at 148 S. Bradford Street (HI-24-02) (2-1)
• Denied demolition of building at 150 S. Bradford Street (HI-24-03) (2-1)
• Recommended approval of Legislative Hall Parking Garage at 425 East Avenue (HI-24-04) (3-0)
• Approved waiver of 10-foot setback to allow 5-foot encroachment for Legislative Hall Parking Garage
• Approved agenda as presented (4-0)
• Adopted minutes of January 18, 2024 meeting (4-0)
• Adopted minutes of February 15, 2024 meeting (4-0)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council met in special session on May 14, 2024, 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, Arndt absent)
• Recessed into executive session for personnel discussion (unanimous, Arndt absent)
• Adjourned meeting (no objection, Arndt absent)

Council Committee of the Whole

The Dover City Council held its annual meeting, electing David Levi Anderson as Council President/Vice-Mayor for 2024/2025. The council approved two rezonings: one for 600 Forest Street (from IO to C-2A) and another for 1100 & 1110 South Little Creek Road (from CPO to IPM). It also adopted Ordinance #2024-13, amending the General Employee Pension Plan, and approved several resolutions and appointments. A motion to defer the City Solicitor and Deputy City Solicitor appointments failed, but a subsequent motion to approve the City Solicitor and defer the Deputy City Solicitor passed.

• Elected David Levi Anderson as Council President/Vice-Mayor for 2024/2025 (unanimous)
• Approved removal of 22 acres from Downtown Development District (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2024-06 supporting five-year Downtown Development District extension (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning at 600 Forest Street to C-2A (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning at 1100 & 1110 South Little Creek Road to IPM (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #2024-13 amending General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Approved City Solicitor appointment, deferred Deputy City Solicitor to June 10 (6-1, 2 abstain)
• Approved Resolution 2024-07 authorizing banking signatures (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council held its annual meeting, approving several rezoning ordinances, a resolution supporting a five-year extension of the Downtown Development District, and amendments to the General Employee Pension Plan. The council also elected David Levi Anderson as Council President/Vice-Mayor and made various appointments, including deferring the City Solicitor and Deputy City Solicitor appointments to a later meeting. Public comments raised concerns about electric billing, police vehicle use, and transparency.

• Elected David Levi Anderson as Council President/Vice-Mayor (unanimous)
• Approved removal of 22 acres from Downtown Development District (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2024-06 supporting five-year Downtown Development District extension (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 2024-09 rezoning 600 Forest Street to C-2A (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 2024-10 rezoning 1100 & 1110 South Little Creek Road to IPM (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-13 amending General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Deferred City Solicitor and Deputy City Solicitor appointments to June 10, 2024 (motion failed, then amended to defer only Deputy)
• Approved Resolution 2024-07 authorizing banking signatures (unanimous)

Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals

The Board of Appeals granted the Achenbachs' appeal of the $5,000 vacant building registration fee for 19 North American Ave, giving them until May 8, 2025, to bring the property into compliance. The property has been vacant for 10 years, and the owners are in the process of converting the duplex into a single-family home. The board noted that if the timeline is not met, the $5,000 fee will be automatically assessed.

• Granted appeal of $5,000 vacant building fee for 19 North American Ave (unanimous)
• Set compliance deadline of May 8, 2025, for property renovation
• Required property review by Code Enforcement and Board if not compliant by deadline
• Noted automatic $5,000 fee assessment if timeline is missed

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole met and took two substantive actions. It voted unanimously to defer action on Proposed Ordinance #2024-07 (General Employee Pension Plan amendments) until a legal review is complete, and it unanimously recommended approval of Proposed Ordinance #2024-12, which establishes an enterprise fund for BLS emergency transportation costs. The Utility Committee received an informational update on customer service policies but took no action.

• Deferred action on pension ordinance #2024-07 pending legal review (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of ordinance #2024-12 for BLS emergency transportation enterprise fund (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on April 22, 2024, and unanimously approved a motion to direct the Human Resources Director to conduct a job analysis and create a job description for the Controller/Treasurer position, in coordination with the City Manager and City Clerk's office. The motion also includes contacting the prior 10 applicants to gauge their interest in interviewing. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was primarily procedural, including an executive session on personnel matters.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Recessed into executive session for personnel matters (unanimous)
• Directed HR Director to coordinate job analysis and job description for Controller/Treasurer (unanimous)
• Directed HR Director to contact prior 10 applicants for Controller/Treasurer position (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council denied a rezoning request for 1617 Forrest Avenue (Draper Farm Properties) to change from R-10 residential to C-1A commercial, with a 7-0 vote against. The Council also denied a Comprehensive Plan amendment to change the land use designation for 1079 Silver Lake Boulevard from Office to Mixed Use, with a 6-1 vote against, which effectively halted a related rezoning request for that property. The Council also approved a contract for the North Bradford Street Rehabilitation Project and adopted an ordinance amending the Downtown Development District's target area boundaries.

• Denied rezoning of 1617 Forrest Avenue from R-10 to C-1A (7-0)
• Denied Comprehensive Plan amendment for 1079 Silver Lake Boulevard (6-1)
• Approved $1,103,390.70 contract for North Bradford Street Rehabilitation (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #2024-02 amending Downtown Development District target area (6-1)
• Approved 2% COLA raise for general employees effective Jan 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Downtown Development District renewal application (unanimous)
• Approved special election for Robbins Hose Company Second Fire Line Captain (unanimous)

Civilian and Police Pension Boards

The General Employee Pension Plan Board voted to add one member to its board and approved several amendments to proposed Ordinance #2024-07, including changes to reporting requirements and legal counsel provisions. The board also discussed concerns about the ordinance's status and board composition.

• Added one member to the General Employee Pension Board (unanimous)
• Amended Section #80-527 to strike 'and beneficiaries' (unanimous)
• Amended Section #80-527 to require quarterly written reports (unanimous)
• Amended Section #80-523 to allow three members to call meetings (unanimous)
• Removed 'general employee shall seek outside legal advice' from Section #80-528 (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Human Relations Commission elected Allan Gaddis as Chairman and Donyale Hall as Vice Chairman by unanimous consent. Members were appointed to several committees, including Assessment, Community Programs, School Programs, By-laws, and Finance. The Media/Public Relations, Education and Development, Intake Screening, and Nominating committees received no appointments. A discussion on the Strategic Plan 2020-2023 was deferred due to time constraints.

• Elected Allan Gaddis as Chairman and Donyale Hall as Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Appointed Hall, Mullen, and Mishoe Sudler to Assessment Committee
• Appointed Faust and Mishoe Sudler to Community Programs Committee
• Appointed Gaddis, Lott, White, and Mishoe Sudler to School Programs Committee
• Appointed Mishoe Sudler and White to By-laws Committee
• Appointed Hall and Mishoe Sudler to Finance Committee
• Deferred discussion of Strategic Plan 2020-2023 (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission approved a one-year extension for the McKee Road Apartments site development plan, allowing more time to secure contractors and permits. The commission also recommended approval to City Council for two rezoning applications: 600 Forest Street from IO to C-2A, and 1100 & 1110 S. Little Creek Road from CPO to IPM. All votes were unanimous (9-0).

• Approved one-year extension for McKee Road Apartments site plan (9-0)
• Recommended approval to City Council for rezoning 600 Forest Street from IO to C-2A (9-0)
• Recommended approval to City Council for rezoning 1100 & 1110 S. Little Creek Road from CPO to IPM (9-0)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on April 8, 2024, primarily to enter an executive session to discuss potential litigation. No substantive decisions were made; the only actions were adopting the agenda and recessing into executive session, both unanimous. The meeting adjourned without any formal action.

• Adopted the meeting agenda unanimously (Lewis absent)
• Recessed into executive session under 29 Del. C. §10004(b)(9) for litigation strategy (unanimous, Lewis absent)
• Adjourned the special meeting with no action taken

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council adopted Ordinance #2024-02, amending Chapter 106 to regulate on-street accessible parking spaces, with an 8-1 roll call vote (Lewis dissenting). The council also approved a consent agenda that included a recommendation for police and code enforcement to collaborate on trash dumping issues in Lincoln Park, and accepted the 2023 Dover Police Department Annual Report as presented. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included proclamations and first reading of a downtown redevelopment ordinance.

• Adopted Ordinance #2024-02 on on-street accessible parking (8-1)
• Approved consent agenda including recommendation for police/code enforcement collaboration on Lincoln Park dumping
• Accepted 2023 Police Department Annual Report
• Approved $133,405.86 contract to AUI for College Road concrete and steel (RFP#24-0023EL)
• Approved recommendation to prepare draft letters on state legislation (public safety, asset forfeiture, homeless) within 7-10 days
• Approved first reading of Ordinance #2024-08 amending Downtown Redevelopment Target Area
• Approved minutes of March 25, 2024 meeting
• Accepted monthly reports for February 2024

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole met on March 26, 2024, and took several actions. It recommended approving collaboration between the Dover Police Department and code enforcement to address trash dumping in Lincoln Park. It also recommended accepting a staff recommendation to award a contract for the College Road concrete and steel project, and recommended approval of an ordinance to expand the downtown redevelopment target area. Additionally, the committee recommended instructing staff to prepare draft letters expressing concern about three state legislative measures.

• Recommended approving police-code enforcement collaboration on Lincoln Park dumping cameras and enforcement (unanimous)
• Recommended accepting staff recommendation to award AUI contract for College Road concrete & steel, $133,405.86 (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Ordinance #2024-08 amending downtown redevelopment target area (unanimous)
• Recommended instructing staff to prepare draft letters on state legislation (HB 115, SB on quotas, HS 2 for HB 55) within 7-10 days (unanimous)

Council Committee of the Whole

The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee voted to recommend accepting the staff recommendation to authorize the City Manager to enter into a three-year contract with Ambulnz for emergency ambulance services, with an option for a two-year extension. The recommendation includes a preference for local Dover EMS employees. The vote was 9 yes, with two members absent. The matter will be recommended to the full city council.

• Recommended accepting staff recommendation for Ambulnz ambulance contract (9-0, 2 absent)
• Incorporated presentation recommendation into original motion (unanimous)
• Removed ambulance contract item from table for discussion (unanimous)
• Adopted agenda (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council approved a three-year ambulance services contract with a possible two-year extension, and advanced two rezoning requests to public hearings. The council also adopted an ordinance amending on-street disabled parking rules. Several presentations honored parade organizers and Dover High School championship teams.

• Approved ambulance services contract for 3 years with option of 2-year extension (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #2024-02 amending on-street disabled parking (unanimous)
• Set public hearings for rezoning at 600 Forest Street (IO to C-2A) for April 8 and May 13
• Set public hearings for rezoning at 1100 & 1110 South Little Creek Road (CPO to IPM) for April 8 and May 13
• Approved consent agenda including CDBG grant recommendations and GRIP resolution (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 11, 2024 meeting (unanimous)

Municipal

The Silver Lake Commission met on March 20, 2024, and discussed a proposed city park naming policy, with members expressing preference for alternatives like memorial bricks and benches over naming parks after individuals. The water system improvement project is on target for completion by April 30, and the police reported few issues at the park. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational and discussion-based.

• Discussed proposed park naming policy; no formal action taken
• Water system improvement project on target for April 30 completion
• Police reported proactive measures prevented unpermitted DSU party at Silver Lake Park
• Discussed potential sharing of park camera access with Parks and Recreation
• Bally's to return for Earth Day projects at Silver Lake and Schutte Parks
• Mayor's Regatta 2024 targeted for early fall, partnering with Good Neighbors
• No plan for native plantings along causeway due to budget and staff constraints

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on March 19, 2024, and immediately recessed into executive session to discuss the Ambulance Service Contract and personnel matters. No action was taken during the meeting, and it adjourned after the executive session. The minutes record no substantive decisions.

• Adopted meeting agenda unanimously (Pillsbury, Lewis absent)
• Recessed into executive session unanimously (Pillsbury, Lewis absent)
• No action taken on Ambulance Service Contract or personnel matters

Home Events

The Dover Human Relations Commission met on March 19, 2024, and unanimously tabled the election of a new Commission Chairman until the April meeting, after Chairman Gaddis expressed his desire to step down. The commission also discussed revising its 2020-2023 Strategic Plan and forming committees to update the mission statement for 2024-2026. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted the meeting agenda unanimously
• Adopted the February 21, 2024 minutes unanimously
• Tabled election of Commission Chairman until April meeting (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission approved a one-year extension for the El Azteca restaurant site plan and a one-year extension for street improvements on Raymond Street and Railroad Avenue. It also approved a site development plan for six new warehouse buildings at Cassidy Commons, including waivers for curbing and sidewalks, with the applicant agreeing to keep bicycle parking.

• Approved one-year extension for S-22-03 El Azteca Restaurant at 801 North State Street (7-0)
• Approved one-year extension for S-22-04 Raymond Street and Railroad Avenue street improvements (7-0)
• Approved S-24-03 Delmarva Land Holdings warehouse buildings at Cassidy Commons with waivers for partial curbing and sidewalk elimination (7-0)

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended approval of Resolution No. 2024-05, allowing staff to submit a letter of commitment for a GRIP grant to fund an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system, with the grant covering up to 50% of the estimated $4.8 million cost. The committee also recommended accepting staff recommendations for FY2024 CDBG grant funding, and tabled the ambulance services contract decision to a special meeting for further discussion.

• Recommended approval of Resolution No. 2024-05 for GRIP grant application (unanimous)
• Recommended accepting staff recommendation for FY2024 CDBG grant funding (Mr. Lewis abstaining)
• Tabled ambulance services contract decision to a special meeting (Mr. Lewis abstaining)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council adopted Ordinance #2024-01, a comprehensive update to the Central Commercial (C-2) zoning district, including new design standards, parking flexibility, and a height increase to 10 stories. The council also adopted Ordinance #2024-06, raising the local lodging tax to 3%. Two related items—a comprehensive plan amendment and a rezoning for a Silver Lake Boulevard property—were deferred for 30 days.

• Adopted Ordinance #2024-01, amending C-2 zoning district regulations (7-1)
• Adopted Ordinance #2024-06, setting local lodging tax at 3% (8-0)
• Deferred Ordinance #2024-03, Comprehensive Plan amendment for Silver Lake Blvd, for 30 days (unanimous)
• Deferred Ordinance #2024-04, rezoning of Dover Federal Credit Union property to C-2A, for 30 days (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 property assessment appeal hearings for June 5-7 (unanimous)
• Approved re-titling and re-grading of several city staff positions (various votes)
• Approved staff recommendations for on-street accessible parking ordinance (7-3)
• Tabled policy on City Manager meetings with legislators (majority vote)

Home Events

The General Employee Pension Plan Board reviewed an actuarial report on possible cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) for retirees. A motion to recommend a CPI-based catch-up and 2% COLA failed (3-2, 2 abstentions). The board then approved a motion to recommend a 2% per year catch-up and 2% automatic future COLA to City Council (5-0, 2 abstentions).

• Approved recommendation for 2% annual catch-up and 2% future COLA (5-0, 2 abstentions)
• Rejected CPI-based catch-up and 2% COLA motion (3-2, 2 abstentions)
• Adopted meeting agenda unanimously
• Adjourned meeting at 5:00 p.m.

City Council Meetings

The special meeting was largely procedural, with the council unanimously adopting the agenda and recessing into executive session for a financial strategy session. After the session, the council voted to instruct the City Manager to provide feedback on the discussion, but no substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous, Lewis absent)
• Recessed into executive session for strategy (unanimous, Lewis absent)
• Instructed City Manager to provide feedback on strategy discussion (unanimous, Lewis absent)

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended approval of Ordinance #2024-02, amending on-street disabled parking rules, with amendments to replace 'handicapped' and 'disabled' with 'accessible' per ADA preferences. The motion passed 7-3. The committee also approved re-titling and re-grading of several city positions, including the Accounts Payable Clerk and Administrative Assistant to the Mayor, with varying effective dates. A proposed procedure for the City Manager when meeting with legislators was tabled for language revisions.

• Approved Ordinance #2024-02 with staff amendments and accessible terminology (7-3)
• Approved re-titling Accounts Payable Clerk position (unanimous)
• Approved re-titling Administrative Assistant to Mayor to Executive Assistant (carried, Lewis no)
• Approved re-titling Administrative Assistant to City Clerk to Executive Assistant (unanimous)
• Approved Accounts Payable Clerk position effective immediately (unanimous)
• Approved Administrative Assistant to Mayor change effective July 1 (carried, Lewis no)
• Approved Administrative Assistant to City Clerk change effective July 1 (unanimous)
• Tabled City Manager-legislator meeting procedure (carried, Rocha no)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council approved a resolution allowing Robbins Hose Company to issue up to $1.3 million in bonds for a new aerial tower ladder truck, and adopted an ordinance updating truck routes. The council also rejected an offer from Delaware State University to repurchase the former city library, and gave first reading to a lodging tax amendment.

• Approved Resolution 2024-04 authorizing Robbins Hose Company to issue up to $1.3M in bonds for a new fire truck (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-05 amending truck routes (unanimous)
• Rejected DSU offer for city to repurchase former city library (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2024-03 to apply for a drinking water matching planning grant (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2024-02 updating the Dover Public Library Advisory Commission (unanimous)
• Approved $120,100 contract for carbon column replacement to Old Dominion Insulation (unanimous)
• Approved staff recommendation to include Stormwater Utility in FY25 budget (unanimous, with Anderson abstaining)
• Tabled sale of 312 W. Loockerman Street pending meeting with interested ministry

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council held a public hearing and unanimously approved a staff recommendation to declare buildings at 130-134 South New Street and 137 South Queen Street dangerous. The owners must repair or demolish the structures by March 22, 2024, or the city will begin demolition, with costs recovered via liens or legal action.

• Declared buildings at 130-134 S New St and 137 S Queen St dangerous (unanimous)
• Ordered owners to repair or demolish by March 22, 2024 (unanimous)
• Authorized city to demolish if owners fail within 10 days after deadline (unanimous)
• Authorized cost recovery via tax assessment, special tax, or lawsuit (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Human Relations Commission met on February 21, 2024, and approved a motion to request City Council members to attend future DHRC meetings. The commission also discussed community outreach strategies, including social media, press releases, and school engagement, but took no other formal actions. The meeting was adjourned at 7:04 p.m.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes of January 17, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved motion to request City Council members to attend future DHRC meetings (unanimous)
• Deferred open discussion to next meeting (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission recommended approval of a comprehensive plan amendment and rezoning for 1079 Silver Lake Boulevard, changing the land use from Office to Mixed Use and zoning from CPO to C-2A. The rezoning was approved 5-2, with concerns about traffic access and density. The commission also unanimously recommended approval of text amendments to the C-2 zone, including increased height limits and parking changes.

• Recommended approval of Comprehensive Plan Amendment MI-24-01 (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Rezoning Z-24-02 to C-2A (5-2)
• Recommended approval of Text Amendments MI-23-04 for C-2 zone (7-0)
• Approved agenda as submitted (7-0)
• Approved January 16, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)

Historic District Commission

The Dover Historic District Commission approved Fence Permit #23-1868 for 146 S. State Street with a condition that the street-visible fence segment (Fence 2) be installed at 6 feet using a wooden material, rather than the proposed white vinyl. The commission also discussed code enforcement for a neighboring property at 140 S. State Street (Grey Fox) but took no formal action. Additionally, staff will prepare a grant application for the Certified Local Government program to study modern materials and technologies.

• Approved Fence Permit #23-1868 with condition that Fence 2 be 6-foot wooden material (5-0)
• Directed staff to prepare CLG grant application for modern materials study (consensus)
• No action on 140 S. State Street fence; code enforcement to be considered separately

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole met on February 13, 2024, and recommended several items for full Council approval. The Utility Committee recommended including a Stormwater Utility in the FY25 budget, with one abstention. The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee recommended approving a lodging tax ordinance, rejecting a DSU offer to repurchase the former city library, and tabling the sale of 312 W. Loockerman Street. The Parks and Recreation Committee received updates only, with no action required.

• Recommended including Stormwater Utility in FY25 budget (carried, Anderson abstaining)
• Recommended approval of Ordinance #2024-06 amending lodging tax (carried, Lewis abstaining)
• Recommended rejecting DSU offer to repurchase former city library (carried, Smith voting no)
• Tabled sale of 312 W. Loockerman Street pending meeting with Tracy Palmer (unanimous)
• Recommended awarding carbon column replacement contract to Old Dominion Insulation, Inc. for $120,100 (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council voted 8-1 to reschedule the public hearing for the proposed rezoning of Draper Farm Properties at 1617 Forrest Avenue to April 22, 2024, at the applicant's request. The council also adopted a rezoning ordinance for the Old Post Office site at 55 Loockerman Plaza (8-0-1) and approved several committee recommendations, including obtaining additional mobile speed signs and forming a working group to address immediate needs of people in tent encampments. The meeting included presentations from the Downtown Dover Partnership and an update on the Unsheltered Working Group.

• Rescheduled public hearing for Ordinance #2023-12 (Draper Farm Properties rezoning) to April 22, 2024 (8-1)
• Adopted Ordinance #2023-13 rezoning Old Post Office site at 55 Loockerman Plaza to C-2 (8-0-1)
• Approved recommendation to obtain additional mobile speed signs (unanimous)
• Referred speed camera issue back to staff for further study (unanimous)
• Approved forming a working group to address immediate needs of those in tents (unanimous)
• Approved staff recommendation to enter into water sales/purchase agreement with Tidewater Utilities (unanimous)
• Approved 2-year tree trimming contract with Asplundh Tree Experts, with option to extend 3 more years (unanimous)
• Deferred Proposed Ordinance #2024-02 on on-street disabled parking (unanimous)

Home Events

The joint pension boards accepted quarterly performance reviews and actuary reports for the General Employee, Police, and OPEB plans, and approved a future meeting date of May 16, 2024. The General Employee Pension Plan Board voted to refer a COLA request to a special meeting on March 4, 2024, and unanimously adopted amended Ordinance #2024-07 regarding pension plan changes. The board also reinstated its process of reviewing retirement applications and accepted a more detailed quarterly expenditures report.

• Accepted Quarterly Performance Review for General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Pushed Quarterly Performance Review for Police Pension Plan due to lack of quorum (unanimous)
• Accepted Quarterly Performance Review for OPEB Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Actuary Report for General Employee Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Actuary Report for Police Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Actuary Report for OPEB Plan (unanimous)
• Approved future meeting date of May 16, 2024 (unanimous)
• Referred COLA request to special General Pension Board meeting on March 4, 2024 (unanimous)

Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals

The Dover Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals granted CT Management, LLC & GM Cedar Chase Apartments until February 29, 2024, to bring units K102 and K103 at 1700 N. DuPont Hwy into compliance with the floor violation (IPMC 305.4). The board also denied the appeal of the citation, and the two $800 fines were waived. All other outstanding fines on the property have been paid.

• Granted extension to February 29, 2024, for compliance on units K102 and K103 (unanimous)
• Denied appeal of the citation (unanimous)
• Waived two $800 fines for units K102 and K103

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended proceeding with obtaining additional mobile speed signs, subject to funding, and referred the issue of speed cameras back to staff for further study and police input. The committee also recommended accepting staff recommendations for a water sales agreement with Tidewater Utilities and a tree trimming contract with Asplundh Tree Experts. A proposed ordinance on on-street disabled parking was deferred for further review.

• Recommended proceeding with additional mobile speed signs (unanimous)
• Referred speed cameras back to staff for police input (unanimous)
• Recommended accepting Tidewater Utilities water sales agreement (unanimous)
• Recommended awarding 2-year tree trimming contract to Asplundh Tree Experts (unanimous)
• Deferred Proposed Ordinance #2024-02 on on-street disabled parking (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Special City Council Meeting on January 22, 2024, was largely procedural, including agenda adoption and a recess into executive session. Following the executive session, the council unanimously directed the city clerk to repost the request for proposals (RFP) for a three-year EMS service contract with a possible two-year extension. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted meeting agenda unanimously (Boggerty absent)
• Recessed into executive session for legal and personnel matters (unanimous, Boggerty absent)
• Directed reposting of RFP for 3-year EMS service contract with possible 2-year extension (unanimous, Boggerty absent)

City Council Meetings

The council approved several routine items and advanced a major zoning ordinance for downtown Dover. The C-2 Central Commercial Zone amendments, which would allow small-scale manufacturing and revise height and parking rules, passed first reading by a 5-3 vote and will go to the Planning Commission. The council also rescinded a resolution to join the state pension plan and referred two related property requests for the Silver Lake Boulevard site to public hearings.

• Approved consent agenda including $233,027 engineering contract for Downtown Dover Upgrades (unanimous)
• Approved $154,559 change order for Mirror Lake Drainage Basin Improvements (unanimous)
• Rescinded Resolution No. 2023-16 to join State Municipal Pension Plan (unanimous)
• Referred Comprehensive Plan amendment for 10790 Silver Lake Blvd to Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Referred rezoning of Dover Federal Credit Union property to C-2A to Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Advanced C-2 zoning ordinance first reading to Planning Commission (5-3, Boggerty absent)
• Approved appointment of retired Captain Larry Gray to Police Pension Board (unanimous)
• Accepted quarterly revenue and CIP reports (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The Dover Historic District Commission voted unanimously to defer action on a fence permit at 146 S. State Street, requesting further clarification on materials, finishes, and color, as well as whether the adjacent Grey Fox property obtained a permit. The commission also received reports on 2022-2023 applications and 2023 permit activity, and discussed a proposed C-2 zoning ordinance amendment, but took no formal action on those items.

• Deferred fence permit HI-24-01 at 146 S. State Street, requesting clarification on materials, finishes, color, and Grey Fox permit status (5-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Home Events

The Dover Human Relations Commission met on January 17, 2024, and unanimously approved a motion to explore outreach through social media. The commission discussed ways to increase public awareness, including newspaper articles, social media platforms, and engaging younger residents. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and focused on future outreach strategies.

• Approved motion to explore outreach through social media (unanimous, Mullen and Paige absent)
• Adopted agenda (unanimous, Mullen and Paige absent)
• Adopted minutes of December 19, 2023 meeting (unanimous, Mullen and Paige absent)
• Adjourned at 6:53 p.m. (unanimous)

Home Events

The Dover Planning Commission voted 6-2 to recommend denial of a rezoning application for 1617 Forrest Avenue, which sought to change the property from R-10 (One Family Residence) to C-1A (Limited Commercial) zoning. The commission also voted 8-0 to recommend approval of a rezoning for the old Post Office property at 55 Loockerman Plaza from IO (Institutional and Office) to C-2 (Central Commercial) zoning. Additionally, the commission elected Mrs. Denney as Vice-Chair.

• Recommended denial of rezoning Z-23-02 for 1617 Forrest Avenue (6-2)
• Recommended approval of rezoning Z-24-01 for 55 Loockerman Plaza (8-0)
• Elected Mrs. Denney as Vice-Chair (8-0)
• Approved agenda (8-0)
• Approved December 18, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0)

Council Committee of the Whole

The Council Committee of the Whole recommended moving forward with proposed amendments to the C-2 (Central Commercial Zone) zoning ordinance, with a provision to further review step-back requirements. The committee also approved a $233,027 engineering design contract for downtown upgrades and a $154,559 change order for the Mirror Lake Drainage Basin Improvements. All decisions were unanimous.

• Approved $233,027 contract for Downtown Dover Upgrades Engineering Design (unanimous)
• Approved $154,559 change order for Mirror Lake Drainage Basin Improvements (unanimous)
• Recommended moving forward with C-2 zoning amendments, with step-back review (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council held a special meeting on January 8, 2024, and unanimously approved staff recommendations for interim positions in Finance Director/Controller Treasurer and Customer Service. The temporary pay bump for the interim Finance Director/Controller Treasurer will be 10% due to the grade difference between the two positions, effective immediately upon starting the roles. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included an executive session on personnel matters.

• Approved interim positions for Finance Director/Controller Treasurer and Customer Service (unanimous)
• Approved 10% temporary pay bump for interim Finance Director/Controller Treasurer, effective immediately (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Dover City Council held a public hearing on an appeal by Double JR, LLC and Jill Sussman regarding code enforcement fines and fees, which had been reduced from an original $21,000 to $6,400. After extensive discussion, the council voted unanimously to table the matter and bring it back following another set of meetings to handle the accounts. The council also approved several consent agenda items, including the active recreation area plan for Walker Road Apartments, the Silver Lake Dam inspection report, 2024 transportation priorities, a subdivision waiver for Windward Ridge Apartments, a $115,000 engineering contract for Water Street flooding improvements, and a referral of a COLA request for the General Employee Pension Plan to staff.

• Tabled $6,400 debt dispute with Double JR, LLC and Jill Sussman (unanimous)
• Approved active recreation area plan for Walker Road Apartments (unanimous)
• Approved Silver Lake Dam 2023 Safety Inspection Report (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 State Capital Transportation Program priorities (unanimous)
• Approved subdivision waiver for Windward Ridge Apartments (unanimous, Mr. Lewis voted no in committee)
• Awarded $115,000 engineering contract for Water Street Flooding Improvements to Century Engineering, LLC (unanimous)
• Referred COLA request for General Employee Pension Plan to staff for recommendation (unanimous)
• Authorized staff to include Sanitation Enterprise Fund in FY25 Budget (unanimous, Mr. Lewis abstained)