Rehoboth Beach public meetings in 2021
34 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Mayor & Commissioners Special Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Commissioners held a virtual special meeting on December 29, 2021, with one substantive agenda item: a resolution authorizing the sale of up to $18,000,000 in general obligation refunding bonds. The bond would refinance about $15.42 million outstanding from the 2016 USDA loans for the City Hall Complex Project and about $1.9 million outstanding from the 2007 Public Water Distribution System Project bonds, plus costs of issuance. The draft resolution anticipates a fixed interest rate not to exceed 2.375% and a maturity around December 31, 2041, with the City's full faith and credit pledged. The agenda also includes routine procedural items (call to order, roll call, correspondence, citizen comment, adjournment).
- Resolution authorizing up to $18,000,000 in general obligation refunding bonds
- Refinances ~$15.42 million outstanding 2016 USDA loans (City Hall Complex Project) and ~$1.9 million outstanding 2007 Public Water Distribution System Project bonds
- Anticipated fixed interest rate not to exceed 2.375%, maturity on or about December 31, 2041
- Full faith and credit of the City pledged as security
- Virtual meeting held under Senate Bill No. 94 and Title 29 §10006(A); anchor location at City Hall, 229 Rehoboth Avenue
Board of Adjustment Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment meets virtually on December 27, 2021, to consider two variance requests. The first is a continuation of a request to allow a structure within the 50-foot rear yard setback at 80 Oak Avenue. The second is a new request to install the 12'-6" high by 29'-6" wide Dolles sign on the Rehoboth Beach Museum at 511 Rehoboth Avenue. The board will also receive correspondence, approve prior meeting minutes, and elect officers.
- Variance request for 80 Oak Avenue to allow a structure within the 50-foot rear yard setback (Case No. 0921-06)
- Variance request to install the 12'-6" high x 29'-6" wide Dolles sign on the Rehoboth Beach Museum at 511 Rehoboth Avenue (Case No. 1121-08)
- Public comment email from James Johnson, 84 Park Avenue, supporting the 80 Oak Avenue variance
- Public comment email from Jeffrey Goode, 1 Grove Street, objecting to the Dolles sign variance
- Election of Board of Adjustment officers
Board of Adjustment Variance Hearing for 511 Rehoboth Avenue - 27 Dec 2021 Public Notice
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual public hearing on Monday, 27 Dec 2021 at 2:30 p.m. on a request for a variance from sign rules in the Municipal Code. The variance, requested by J. David Mann III, President of the Rehoboth Beach Historical Society, would allow a 12'-6" high by 29'-6" wide iconic Dolles sign to be installed on the westerly side of the Rehoboth Beach Museum building at 511 Rehoboth Avenue in the C-1 Commercial District. The meeting will be conducted virtually under Senate Bill No. 94 and Title 29 §10006(A) of the Delaware Code, with the anchor location at City Hall, 229 Rehoboth Avenue.
- Variance request under Sections 270-66, 270-66(C)(2) and 270-66(E)(1) for a 12'-6" high x 29'-6" wide Dolles sign
- Sign to be installed on the westerly side of the Rehoboth Beach Museum building at 511 Rehoboth Avenue
- Property is in the C-1 Commercial District, TMP #334-13.20-171.00
- Variance requested by J. David Mann III, President of Rehoboth Beach Historical Society
- Virtual public hearing; speakers must pre-register with City Secretary Ann Womack at least 24 hours in advance
Cancellation of Parks & Shade Tree Commission Meeting - 20 Dec 2021 Press Release
The Parks & Shade Tree Commission meeting scheduled for December 20, 2021 was cancelled. Chair Francis Markert Jr. announced the cancellation, citing a lack of agenda items. No decisions or discussion items were scheduled. The notice was posted December 14, 2021.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of agenda items
- Announced by Chair Francis Markert Jr.
- Notice posted 12/14/21
Mayor & Commissioners Regular Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Commissioners meet virtually on December 17, 2021 to take up a public hearing on amending the city code for wireless communications facilities, a permit request by Two CC's Inc. for a new restaurant called "Zogg's Raw Bar & Grill" at 1 Wilmington Avenue, and several old-business items. Those include the fiscal year 2021 independent audit by Barbacane, Thornton & Company, proposed traffic and parking ordinance amendments, and options for rebuilding or relocating the Rehoboth Beach Patrol and public restrooms. The agenda also includes routine reports and a possible Stormwater Utility Task Force.
- Public hearing on amending Chapter 270 (Sections 270-4 and 270-46.1.2) on tower-based, non-tower and small wireless communications facilities
- Permit of Compliance request by Two CC's Inc. for a new restaurant "Zogg's Raw Bar & Grill" at 1 Wilmington Avenue
- Consideration of the fiscal year ended March 31, 2021 independent audit by Barbacane, Thornton & Company
- Proposed amendments to Chapter 92 on accessible parking locations, nontransferable bus permits, and maximum vehicle length for parking
- Discussion of rebuilding or relocating the Rehoboth Beach Patrol and public restrooms at Baltimore Avenue, and possible Stormwater Utility Task Force
Mayor & Commissioners Permit of Compliance for 1 Wilmington Avenue - 17 Dec 2021 Public Notice
The Rehoboth Beach Mayor and Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing on Friday, December 17, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. to hear and determine a Permit of Compliance request by Two CC's Inc. The permit would allow an additional new restaurant serving alcoholic beverages, to be known as "Zogg's Raw Bar & Grill", located adjacent to the existing Zogg's Raw Bar & Grill at 1 Wilmington Avenue, under Chapter 215 - Restaurants of the City Municipal Code. The notice also sets out how residents may pre-register or submit comments.
- Public hearing on a Permit of Compliance request by Two CC's Inc. for a new restaurant serving alcoholic beverages at 1 Wilmington Avenue
- Proposed restaurant name: "Zogg's Raw Bar & Grill", adjacent to the existing Zogg's Raw Bar & Grill
- Reviewed under City of Rehoboth Beach Municipal Code, Chapter 215 - Restaurants
- Meeting held virtually per Senate Bill No. 94 and §10006(A) of the Delaware Code; anchor location City Hall, 229 Rehoboth Avenue
- Public must pre-register with City Secretary Ann Womack at least 24 hours in advance to speak; comments limited to 3 minutes
Planning Commission Joint Meeting with Board of Commissioners
The Rehoboth Beach Planning Commission and Board of Commissioners hold a virtual joint meeting on December 15, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. The single substantive agenda item is consideration of the revised draft Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP Draft No. 2). Written review comments from the Planning Commission, the Board of Commissioners, the City Planner, and the Trees & Green Infrastructure Committee were linked to the agenda. The meeting is conducted virtually under Senate Bill No. 94 and Title 29 §10006(A) of the Delaware Code, with the anchor location at City Hall, 229 Rehoboth Avenue; the public broadcast does not allow public comment.
- Consideration of revised draft Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP Draft No. 2)
- Planning Commission written review comments on CDP Draft No. 2
- Board of Commissioners written review comments on CDP Draft No. 2
- City Planner review of CDP Draft No. 2
- Trees & Green Infrastructure Committee review of CDP Draft No. 2
Mayor & Commissioners Special Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Commissioners held a virtual special meeting on December 14, 2021, to continue receiving information and discussing the proposed Wilmington/Baltimore Avenue Streetscape project. JMT Engineers presented a logistics analysis on undergrounding utilities in the seven-block project area, including cost estimates. Commissioners began introductory discussions on whether to move forward with design, engineering, funding, and construction, and discussed hiring a City Project Manager to assist with project phasing and budgeting. No decisions or votes are recorded in the agenda.
- Presentation by JMT Engineers on undergrounding utilities in the seven-block Wilmington/Baltimore Avenue project area, including cost estimates
- Study area covers Baltimore Avenue and Wilmington Avenue from the Boardwalk to 2nd Street, plus 1st and 2nd Streets
- Discussion of hiring a City Project Manager for project phasing and budgeting
- Utility owners identified include Delmarva Power, Verizon, Comcast, City of Rehoboth Beach, DelDOT, Crown Castle, and AT&T
- Construction phasing limited to an 8-month off-season period from mid-September to late April
Trees & Green Infrastructure Committee Meeting
The Trees & Green Infrastructure Committee meets virtually on Friday, December 10, 2021, at 10:00 a.m., with the anchor location at City Hall, 229 Rehoboth Avenue. The main new item is a review of trees and green infrastructure in the second draft of the 2022 Comprehensive Development Plan and discussion of public review. The committee will also continue old business on tree mapping for the Commemorative Tree Program and on selecting trees for a tree tour in parks, on city property, and on private property. The agenda is otherwise procedural, including approval of minutes from November 12, 2021, correspondence, chair and member comments, and citizen comment.
- Review of trees and green infrastructure in the second draft of the 2022 Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) and discussion of public review
- Old business: tree mapping for the Commemorative Tree Program
- Old business: tree tour — selecting trees in parks, on city property, and on private property
- Approval of minutes from the November 12, 2021 meeting
- Public must pre-register with City Secretary Ann Womack at least 24 hours in advance to speak; comments limited to three minutes
Planning Commission Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Planning Commission meets virtually on December 10, 2021 to continue discussing a change-of-zone request for 330 Rehoboth Avenue and to consider a revised Comprehensive Development Plan. The 330 Rehoboth Avenue item includes a draft Declaration of Restrictive Covenants from 330 Hospitality Group, LLC that would limit the property to a hotel with first-floor commercial uses and keep at-grade parking along State Road. The commission may make a recommendation to the Board of Commissioners on the rezoning; the draft CDP public comment period begins December 21, 2021. The agenda also includes routine reports and scheduling for the January 14, 2022 meeting.
- Change of zone request for 330 Rehoboth Avenue, currently split-zoned R-1 and C-1, to eliminate split zoning for a hotel with first-floor commercial uses
- Draft Declaration of Restrictive Covenants for 330 Rehoboth Avenue: 30-year term, hotel-only use, 10-foot rear setback, at-grade parking along State Road
- Continued consideration of the revised Comprehensive Development Plan; public comment period starts December 21, 2021
- Building Inspector's and Building & Licensing Department report for November 2021
- Future agenda items and attendance conflicts for the January 14, 2022 regular meeting
Mayor & Commissioners Special Meeting
The Commissioners hold a virtual special meeting to receive a formal presentation of the Wilmington/Baltimore Avenue Streetscape Project, including concept plans and cost estimates from consultant Rossi Group. The public may comment after pre-registering 24 hours in advance. No vote is scheduled; the meeting is for presentation, public input, and Commissioner discussion.
- Rossi Group presents streetscape concept plans and costing for Wilmington and Baltimore Avenues
- Proposed parking reduced to 247 vehicular spaces from 329 existing, per concept
- Scooter parking would rise to 88 spaces from 58; bike rack locations to 21 from 8
- Task Force guidelines recommend shared bike lanes with sharrows, not designated bike lanes
- Public must pre-register with City Secretary Ann Womack at least 24 hours ahead to speak
Mayor & Commissioners Workshop Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Commissioners hold a virtual workshop covering proposed amendments to the solid waste ordinance (including recycling fees and a possible single collection fee), a Pay-As-You-Throw presentation, an update on loan refinancing, and Sussex County's request to buy 2.0 million gallons per day of the City's Ocean Outfall capacity. New business includes the FY2021 independent audit by Barbacane, Thornton & Company, forming a Stormwater Utility Task Force, amendments to the vehicle and traffic code, and changes to the Small Wireless Communications Facility Design Manual. No votes or final decisions are listed on the agenda; items are set for discussion and presentation.
- Solid waste ordinance changes: new §227-24(B) recycling fees, a possible single fee for garbage/refuse/yard waste/recycling, and a Pay-As-You-Throw presentation
- Sussex County request to purchase 2.0 million gallons per day of the City's Ocean Outfall capacity, with an outfall analysis dated Dec 3, 2021
- FY2021 independent audit presentation by Finance Director Burt Dukes, prepared by Barbacane, Thornton & Company for the year ended March 31, 2021
- Proposed Chapter 92 amendments: handicapped parking locations (§92-65), eliminating nontransferable bus permits (§92-268), and vehicle length parking limits (§92-38)
- Proposed changes to the Small Wireless Communications Facility Design Manual under City Code §270-46.1.2
Planning Commission Special Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Planning Commission holds a virtual special meeting on Monday, December 6, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. The only substantive agenda item is continued consideration of a revised Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP). The rest of the agenda is procedural: call to order, roll call, verification of meeting notice, correspondence, and adjournment.
- Continued consideration of the revised Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP)
- Virtual meeting held under Senate Bill No. 94 and Title 29 §10006(a) of the Delaware Code, with anchor location at City Hall, 229 Rehoboth Avenue
- Public speakers must pre-register with City Secretary Ann Womack at least 24 hours in advance
- Comments limited to three minutes per speaker, administered by a moderator
- Meeting streamed on the City portal and YouTube with a 30-second delay
Streets & Transportation Committee Meeting
The Streets & Transportation Committee meets virtually on Friday, December 3, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. to continue prior discussions on a potential crosswalk on Rehoboth Avenue between Fourth and Fifth Streets, a possible streetscape on King Charles Avenue, wayfinding sign height for bicycles, and bicyclists heading east from the bike path onto Rehoboth Avenue. The committee will also discuss new members and future agenda items; no votes or dollar amounts are listed on the agenda.
- Continued discussion of a potential crosswalk on Rehoboth Avenue between Fourth and Fifth Streets
- Continued discussion of a possible streetscape on King Charles Avenue
- Continued discussion of wayfinding sign height for bicycles
- Continued discussion of bicyclists heading east from the bike path onto Rehoboth Avenue
- Discussion of new members to the Streets & Transportation Committee
Environment Committee Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Environment Committee meets virtually on December 3, 2021, to discuss new business including offshore wind farm plans. The committee will also hear updates on table placards and continue discussion on a Sustainable/Climate Action Plan, plus recap action items from a DNREC presentation. No votes or dollar amounts are specified in the agenda.
- New business: discussion of off-shore wind farm plans
- Old business: update on table placards — funding, printing, and distribution
- Continued discussion on Sustainable/Climate Action Plan
- Recap of action items from presentation by Adam Schlachter, Environment Program Manager, DNREC
- Approval of minutes from the September 3, 2021 meeting
Boardwalk & Beach Committee Meeting
The Boardwalk & Beach Committee meets virtually on November 30, 2021 to continue discussion of proposed changes to the 5G Design Manual and to consider recommending changes to summer hours for bicycles on the Boardwalk. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from October 12, 2021, correspondence, citizen comment, and planning of future agenda items and meeting dates. No votes or final decisions are listed on the agenda beyond routine approval of prior minutes.
- Continue discussion of proposed changes in the 5G Design Manual (Old Business)
- Consider recommending changes in summer hours for bicycles on the Boardwalk (New Business)
- Approval of minutes from the October 12, 2021 meeting
- Citizen comment period with pre-registration required 24 hours in advance
- Virtual meeting held under Senate Bill No. 94 and Title 29 §10006(a) of the Delaware Code
Cancellation of Parks & Shade Tree Commission Meeting - 22 Nov 2021 Press Release
The Parks & Shade Tree Commission meeting scheduled for November 22, 2021 was cancelled. Chair Francis Markert Jr. announced the cancellation was due to a lack of agenda items. No decisions or discussion items were scheduled.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of agenda items
- Announced by Chair Francis Markert Jr.
- Press release dated November 15, 2021
Board of Adjustment Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment meets virtually on November 22, 2021 to consider a variance request that would let the Belhaven Hotel project exceed the maximum allowable floor-area ratio (FAR) of 2.0 by 50%, to 3.0, at 2 Rehoboth Avenue. The board will also review correspondence, approve minutes from its October 25 meeting, and discuss a possible conflict with its December meeting date. Numerous residents and groups submitted letters, emails, and petitions opposing the FAR variance.
- Variance request (Case No. 0921-07) to raise maximum FAR from 2.0 to 3.0 for the Belhaven Hotel at 2 Rehoboth Avenue, filed by Hal Dukes, Esq. for owner John N. Papajohn
- Petitions from 71, 93, 115, and 116 Rehoboth Beach citizens opposing the FAR variance for the Belhaven Hotel project
- Letter from Carol Everhart of the RB-DB Chamber of Commerce asking for relief for commercial property owners from regulations it calls detrimental
- Correspondence from residents including Michael Strange (4 Stockley Street), Dr. Michael Trahos (7-15 South Boardwalk), Paul Carrano (Oak Avenue), and Nick Papantinas (303 Stockley Street)
- Item 8(A): discussion of possible conflicts with the December Board of Adjustment meeting date
Board of Adjustment Variance Hearing for 2 Rehoboth Avenue - 22 Nov 2021 Public Notice
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual public hearing on Monday, 22 Nov 2021 at 2:30 p.m. on a request to exceed the maximum allowable floor area ratio (FAR) in the C-1 Commercial District. The applicant seeks a variance under Section 270-21(B)(5) of the Municipal Code to raise the maximum FAR from 2.0 to 3.0, an additional 50%. The request is made by Hal Dukes, Esq. of Tunnell & Raysor P.A. on behalf of property owner John N. Papajohn for the property at 2 Rehoboth Avenue.
- Public hearing on a variance to allow FAR of 3.0 instead of the 2.0 maximum in the C-1 Commercial District
- Property at 2 Rehoboth Avenue covers Lot Nos. 2, 4 & 6 (Rehoboth Avenue), 17 & 18 (Surf Avenue), and 3, 5, 7 & a portion of 9 (Wilmington Avenue)
- Variance requested by Hal Dukes, Esq. of Tunnell & Raysor P.A. for owner John N. Papajohn
- Meeting held virtually under Senate Bill No. 94 and Title 29 §10006(A) of the Delaware Code, with anchor location at City Hall, 229 Rehoboth Avenue
- Public speakers must pre-register with City Secretary Ann Womack at least 24 hours in advance; comments limited to 3 minutes
Mayor & Commissioners Regular Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Commissioners meet virtually on November 19, 2021 to hear an administrative appeal by David Clarke, on behalf of property owner Yavar Rzayev, of the Parks and Shade Tree Commission's March 22, 2021 denial of a request to remove one memorial Gingko tree at 60 Maryland Avenue. The board will also take up old business on solid waste, recycling and yard waste policy and ordinance amendments, and consider a resolution setting a public hearing on amending the zoning rules for wireless communications facilities. Other items include approval of minutes, a Street Aid expenditure, departmental reports, and a proclamation naming November 27, 2021 Small Business Saturday.
- Administrative appeal of the Parks and Shade Tree Commission's denial of removing one memorial Gingko tree at 60 Maryland Avenue (appeal filed by David Clarke for owner Yavar Rzayev)
- Consider operational changes to refuse, yard waste and recycling collection times and updating the fee charged for a yard waste container
- Consider ordinances amending Chapter 227 Solid Waste, including §227-1 (definition of 'Waste Container'), §227-9, §227-11 and §227-24
- Consider a resolution setting a public hearing on amending Chapter 270 Zoning, §270-4 and §270-46.1.2, on wireless communications facilities
- Street Aid expenditure of $6,196.22 to Delmarva Power for street lights; proclamation recognizing November 27, 2021 as Small Business Saturday
Board of Commissioners Administrative Appeal Hearing for 60 Maryland Avenue - 19 Nov 2021 - Public Notice
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Commissioners will hold a virtual administrative appeal hearing on Friday, November 19, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. The appeal was requested by David Clarke on behalf of Yavar Rzayev, owner of 60 Maryland Avenue, and concerns the removal of one memorial Gingko tree located between the sidewalk and curb adjacent to that property. The hearing is held under §253-20 of the Municipal Code, with the appeal brought pursuant to §253-12(C). The notice states the hearing may be adjourned from time to time without further notice.
- Administrative appeal hearing on removal of one memorial Gingko tree at 60 Maryland Avenue
- Appeal requested by David Clarke on behalf of property owner Yavar Rzayev
- Hearing held pursuant to §253-20 of the Municipal Code; appeal under §253-12(C)
- Meeting conducted virtually per Senate Bill No. 94 and Title 29 §10006(a) of the Delaware Code
- Public wishing to speak must pre-register with City Secretary Ann Womack at least 24 hours in advance
Planning Commission Special Meeting
The Planning Commission holds a virtual special meeting to review the latest draft of the Comprehensive Development Plan and to discuss the proposed Belhaven hotel/retail project. The Belhaven concept plan would demolish existing structures on 38,475 square feet between Rehoboth Avenue and Wilmington Avenue and build a 4-story hotel with retail, underground parking, and a restaurant/bar. The applicant's plan exceeds the C-1 district's maximum Floor Area Ratio of 2.0, and the applicant has indicated intent to seek a variance.
- Belhaven concept plan: 4-story hotel/retail complex on 38,475 sq ft between Rehoboth Avenue and Wilmington Avenue
- Proposed FAR of 3.07 exceeds the C-1 maximum of 2.0; applicant intends to request a variance
- Plan includes 123 off-street parking spaces (95 underground, 28 surface); code requires 116 for hotel rooms
- Building Inspector estimates an additional 19 parking spaces may be required for conference/other areas
- Planning Commission also reviewing PC Review Draft #1 of the Comprehensive Development Plan dated 11 Oct 2021
Mayor & Commissioners Special Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Commissioners holds a virtual special meeting on November 17, 2021, to discuss how the Wilmington/Baltimore Avenue Streetscape Project interacts with the pending remodel of the Rehoboth Beach Patrol and public restroom building at Baltimore Avenue. Commissioners will consider options including rebuilding the combined facility at Baltimore Avenue, moving it to Maryland Avenue, or splitting the beach patrol and restrooms between the two locations. The agenda includes a letter from the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel opposing a Maryland Avenue restroom location and memos from RBP Captain Jeff Giles supporting a Baltimore Avenue facility with a third-floor observation deck. No vote or decision is listed on the agenda.
- Options discussed: rebuild combined RBP/restroom facility at Baltimore Avenue; build combined facility at Maryland Avenue; or split RBP at Baltimore Avenue and restrooms at Maryland Avenue
- Letter received October 14, 2021 from Jeffrey Zerby Jr. and the Zerby family of Boardwalk Plaza Hotel opposing relocation of Baltimore Avenue restrooms to Maryland Avenue
- Memo from RBP Captain Jeff Giles endorsing a third-floor observation deck (31-foot height) at a new Baltimore Avenue headquarters
- Memo from RBP Captain Giles supporting retaining a renovated or new facility at Baltimore Avenue rather than relocating
- Baltimore Avenue opinion from Mike Wigley of Davis Bowen & Friedel Inc. dated October 14, 2021
Mayor & Commissioners Special Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Commissioners holds a virtual special meeting on Monday, November 15, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. The single substantive agenda item is a discussion of Sussex County's request to purchase a portion of the City's Permitted Daily Average Load Allocation — an equivalent of 2.0 million gallons per day of the City's Ocean Outfall capacity. The agenda includes a presentation by Sussex County, City follow-ups to questions from Commissioners and the public, and Commissioner discussion. No vote or decision is listed on the agenda; the item is set for discussion only.
- Sussex County requests to purchase 2.0 million gallons per day of Rehoboth Beach's Ocean Outfall capacity (Permitted Daily Average Load Allocation)
- Presentation by Sussex County followed by City responses to Commissioner and public questions
- Commissioner discussion of the request; no vote listed on the agenda
- Meeting held virtually under Senate Bill No. 94 and Title 29 §10006(a) of the Delaware Code, with anchor location at City Hall, 229 Rehoboth Avenue
- Public speakers must pre-register with City Secretary Ann Womack at least 24 hours in advance; comments limited to three minutes
Planning Commission Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Planning Commission meets virtually on November 12, 2021 to continue concept review of the proposed Belhaven Hotel at 2 Rehoboth Avenue, with public comment limited to that purpose. The Commission also continues discussion and a recommendation to the Board of Commissioners on a change of zone request for 330 Rehoboth Avenue, and will elect officers. Correspondence includes a petition from 115 residents opposing a FAR variance for the Belhaven project and letters raising public-safety and flood concerns.
- Continued concept review of the proposed Belhaven Hotel at 2 Rehoboth Avenue, owned by the Papajohn Family, for the limited purpose of receiving public comment
- Continued discussion and recommendation to the Board of Commissioners on a change of zone request for 330 Rehoboth Avenue
- Election of Planning Commission officers
- Correspondence from Wyn Achenbaum, 62 Columbia Avenue, with a petition of 115 residents opposing a FAR variance for the Belhaven project
- Correspondence from Dr. Michael C. Trahos and Rick Perry, 46 Pennsylvania Avenue, on the Belhaven Hotel concept plan
Trees & Green Infrastructure Committee Meeting
The Trees & Green Infrastructure Committee meets virtually on Friday, November 12, 2021, at 10:00 a.m., with an anchor location at City Hall, 229 Rehoboth Avenue. The committee will review old business on tree mapping for the Commemorative Tree Program, promoting that program before year-end, and education activities. New business includes selecting trees for a tree tour and discussing whether regulations limiting gas-powered leaf blowers should be enacted and whether the committee should be involved. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the October 8, 2021 meeting, correspondence, chair and member comments, future agenda items, scheduling the next meeting, and citizen comment.
- Discussion of whether regulations limiting gas-powered leaf blowers should be enacted, and whether the committee should be involved
- Tree Mapping for the Commemorative Tree Program (old business)
- Opportunities to promote the Commemorative Tree program before year-end
- Tree Tour — selecting trees in parks, on city property, and on private property
- Approval of minutes from the October 8, 2021 meeting
Mayor & Commissioners Special Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Commissioners met virtually on November 9, 2021 for a special meeting whose only stated purpose was to conduct FOIA and ethics training. The agenda lists no votes, ordinances, contracts, or public hearings; after call to order and roll call, the training was the sole substantive item, followed by adjournment. The training materials, embedded in the posted agenda, cover Delaware's open meetings and public records law and the State Code of Conduct. The meeting was conducted virtually under Senate Bill No. 94 and Title 29 §10006(a) of the Delaware Code, with City Hall at 229 Rehoboth Avenue as the anchor location.
- Special meeting purpose: FOIA and Ethics training only
- FOIA presentation materials embedded in the agenda (pages 3-36)
- Training covers Delaware open meetings law (29 Del. C. § 10004) and public records
- Ethics portion covers the State Code of Conduct (29 Del. C. § 5801 et seq.) and conflicts of interest
- No votes, contracts, ordinances, or public hearings listed on the agenda
Mayor & Commissioners Workshop Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Commissioners held a virtual workshop meeting on November 8, 2021 to discuss several items, including operational changes to refuse, yard waste, and recycling collection, and proposed ordinances amending Chapter 227 Solid Waste. The board also discussed recommended amendments to Chapter 270 Zoning regarding wireless communications facilities with consultant CTC, Inc., and Sussex County's request to purchase 2.0 million gallons per day of the City's Ocean Outfall capacity for $7.6 million. Other items included an offer from Tom Ibach to take possession of the Dolles sign and a Planning Commission request to set a deadline for written submissions before Planning Commission meetings.
- Sussex County request to purchase 2.0 million gallons per day of the City's Ocean Outfall capacity for $7.6 million
- Proposed changes to refuse, yard waste, and recycling collection times and yard waste container fees
- Ordinances amending Chapter 227 Solid Waste, including definitions of 'Waste Container' and collection times
- Discussion with CTC, Inc. on amendments to Chapter 270 Zoning for wireless communications facilities and design guidelines
- Offer from Tom Ibach to take possession of the Dolles sign at the old Dolles Candyland location
Audit Committee Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Audit Committee meets virtually on Friday, October 29, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. The main item is a presentation of the city audit for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2021, followed by committee discussion, public questions, and a possible committee recommendation. The agenda is otherwise procedural, and no specific findings, dollar figures, or recommendations are stated in the agenda text.
- Presentation of the City audit for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2021
- Audit Committee discussion following the audit presentation
- Public question-and-answer session, with speakers required to pre-register 24 hours in advance and limited to three minutes
- Possible recommendation by the Audit Committee
- Meeting held virtually under Senate Bill No. 94 and Title 29 §10006(a) of the Delaware Code, with anchor location at City Hall, 229 Rehoboth Avenue
Mayor & Commissioners Special Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Commissioners is holding a virtual special meeting on October 26, 2021, at 9:00 a.m. The only substantive item is an executive session, closed to the public, where commissioners will receive legal advice from the City Solicitor about the pending lawsuit Hancharick, et al v. City of Rehoboth Beach (Civ. No. 1:21-cv-00521-LPS) and discuss documents excluded from the definition of "public record" under the Freedom of Information Act. No public votes, ordinances, contracts, or hearings are listed on this agenda.
- Virtual special meeting held under Senate Bill No. 94 and 29 Del.C. §10006(a); anchor location is City Hall, 229 Rehoboth Avenue
- Executive session on pending litigation: Hancharick, et al v. City of Rehoboth Beach, Civ. No. 1:21-cv-00521-LPS
- Legal advice from the City Solicitor under 29 Del.C. §10004(b)(4)
- Discussion of documents excluded from the FOIA definition of "public record" under 29 Del.C. §10004(b)(6)
- Agenda otherwise limited to call to order, roll call, and adjournment
Cancellation of Parks & Shade Tree Commission Meeting - 25 Oct 2021 Press Release
The Parks & Shade Tree Commission meeting scheduled for October 25, 2021 was cancelled. Chair Francis Markert Jr. announced the cancellation, citing a lack of agenda items. No decisions or discussion items were scheduled, so there is no substantive business to report from this notice.
- Meeting cancelled: Parks & Shade Tree Commission, October 25, 2021
- Reason given: lack of agenda items
- Announced by Chair Francis Markert Jr.
- Press release dated October 18, 2021; posted 10/18/21
Board of Adjustment Variance Hearing for 80 Oak Avenue - 25 Oct 2021 Public Notice
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual public hearing on Monday, October 25, 2021 at 2:30 p.m. on a request for variances from Municipal Code Sections 270-25 and 270-42 to allow a structure within the 50-foot required rear yard setback at 80 Oak Avenue in the R-1(S) Residential District. The variances are requested by attorney Richard Forsten of Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr on behalf of property owner Steven Linehan. The meeting will be conducted virtually under Senate Bill No. 94 and Title 29 §10006(a) of the Delaware Code, with City Hall at 229 Rehoboth Avenue as the anchor location.
- Public hearing on variance request for 80 Oak Avenue, Lot J, Block - Oak Avenue, in the R-1(S) Residential District
- Variances sought under Municipal Code Sections 270-25 and 270-42 to allow a structure within the 50-foot required rear yard setback
- Request made by Richard Forsten of Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr on behalf of owner Steven Linehan
- Virtual meeting; public speakers must pre-register with City Secretary Ann Womack at least 24 hours in advance
- Written comments due to the City Secretary at least two full business days before the meeting
Board of Adjustment Variance Hearing for 2 Rehoboth Avenue - 25 Oct 2021 Public Notice
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual public hearing on Monday, October 25, 2021 at 2:30 p.m. on a request for a variance at 2 Rehoboth Avenue. The applicant, represented by Hal Dukes, Esq. of Tunnell & Raysor P.A. on behalf of owner John N. Papajohn, seeks to exceed the maximum allowable floor-area ratio (FAR) of 2.0 by an additional 50%, to 3.0, under Section 270-21(B)(5) of the Municipal Code. The property is in the C-1 Commercial District on lots on Rehoboth Avenue, Surf Avenue, and Wilmington Avenue. The notice is otherwise procedural, covering how the public may pre-register, comment, and view the virtual meeting.
- Public hearing on a variance request to raise the maximum FAR from 2.0 to 3.0 at 2 Rehoboth Avenue
- Applicant: Hal Dukes, Esq. of Tunnell & Raysor P.A., for property owner John N. Papajohn
- Property in the C-1 Commercial District spans lots on Rehoboth Avenue, Surf Avenue, and Wilmington Avenue
- Meeting held virtually under Senate Bill No. 94 and Title 29 §10006(a) of the Delaware Code, anchored at City Hall, 229 Rehoboth Avenue
- Public must pre-register with City Secretary Ann Womack at least 24 hours in advance to speak; comments limited to 3 minutes
Board of Adjustment Meeting
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment meets virtually on October 25, 2021 to consider two variance requests. One seeks to place a structure within the required rear yard setback at 80 Oak Avenue; the other asks to exceed the maximum allowable FAR at 2 Rehoboth Avenue for the proposed Belhaven Hotel project. The agenda includes numerous written public comments and petitions both supporting and opposing the requests.
- Variance request for 80 Oak Avenue to allow a structure within the 50-foot required rear yard setback in the R-1(S) Residential District
- Variance request for 2 Rehoboth Avenue to increase maximum allowable FAR from 2.0 to 3.0 for the Belhaven Hotel project in the C-1 Commercial District
- Petitions from 71 and 93 Rehoboth Beach citizens opposing the FAR variance for the Belhaven project
- Multiple letters and emails both opposing and supporting the 80 Oak Avenue variance request
- Public comments received on environmental concerns at Lake Gerar and various project details