Smyrna public meetings in 2023

Mayor & Council

The Mayor and Council will consider several land use changes including an annexation resolution and multiple rezoning requests. The meeting also includes a request for a donation to the Smyrna-Clayton Pop Warner 9U Football Team and discussions regarding potential property acquisitions.

• Annexation Resolution for Parcels 15-022.00-071 and 15-022.00-070
• Rezoning of Parcels 15-022.00-071 and 15-022.00-070 from CR to CCM
• Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment for Tax Map Parcel 1-17-01013-02-0301-00001
• Ordinance No. 016-23 regarding subdivision and land development bonding requirements
• Rezoning of 139-141 N. Main Street for Church of the Pentecost USA, Inc.

Main Street Coordinating Board

The Main Street Coordinating Board is meeting to review and select designs for downtown street pole banners. The board will also discuss Autumn at Duck Creek and receive subcommittee updates.

• Selection of Downtown Street Pole Banner Designs
• Discussion of Autumn at Duck Creek
• Approval of November 1st Committee Minutes

Parks & Recreation

The Smyrna Parks & Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving minutes and reviewing recent events. They will evaluate the Caroling on the Square event and follow up on the Clayton Parade, as well as discuss coordinating with other town committees. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference or Zoom.

• Review of Caroling on the Square (December 10) best practices
• Follow-up on Clayton Parade
• Discussion on coordinating with other town committees

Mayor & Council

The Town Council is holding a work session to review and discuss the FY2024 Budget.

• Review and discussion of the FY2024 Budget

Smyrna Slum Clearance and Redevelopment Authority

The Authority will review financial reports and progress on goals and action plans. The meeting includes discussions regarding facade grants, specific loans, and the 2024 budget.

• Façade Grant for Ginny Stanley of 25 W. Mt. Vernon Street
• True Access Capital Loan approval for Katie Pawley
• Proposal to add S. Delaware Ave., Rodney St, and Hamilton Way to Redevelopment Focus Area
• Election of 2024 Officers
• Review of 2024 Budget

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Smyrna Planning & Zoning Commission will meet to review and make recommendations on Comprehensive Plan Map and Text Amendments, and discuss a Comprehensive Rezoning. The agenda includes public recognition and other business, but no specific details on the amendments or rezoning are provided in the agenda text.

• Review and recommendation of Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment
• Review and recommendation of Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment
• Discussion of Comprehensive Rezoning

Mayor & Council

The Mayor and Council will hold a public hearing and discuss a resolution to issue a bond to cover increased construction costs for a water main replacement. The body will also consider budget amendments and an ordinance regarding impact fees.

• Resolution for up to $803,185 general obligation bond for East Commerce Street water main replacement
• Amendment of FY2023 Budget to reverse the creation of the Fleet Internal Service Fund
• Ordinance to amend Chapter 32 to clarify the authorized use of impact fees
• Review and approval of Draft Smyrna Master Parks Plan
• Letter of approval to use the first floor of the opera house after the library closes

Mayor & Council

The Town of Smyrna is holding a public hearing and discussing a resolution to issue a general obligation bond to cover increased construction costs for the East Commerce Street water main replacement project. Council will also review a parks master plan and an ordinance regarding impact fees.

• Proposed $803,185 general obligation bond for East Commerce Street water main replacement
• Review and approval of Draft Smyrna Master Parks Plan
• Proposed ordinance to amend Chapter 32 to clarify authorized use of impact fees
• Proposed letter of approval to use the first floor of the opera house after library hours
• Executive sessions to discuss real property sale, lease, acquisition, personnel, and legal strategy

Mayor & Council

The Town of Smyrna Mayor and Council will meet to discuss the acquisition of a portion of 932 Clark Farm Road. The body will also review downtown street pole banners and business welcome packets. Several executive sessions are scheduled to discuss real property and personnel matters.

• Resolution to acquire a portion of 932 Clark Farm Road from IPA Watson Farm, LLC for $440,000
• Review and approval of proposed Downtown and Highway Street Pole Banners
• Discussion of Business Welcome Packet
• Possible business contact number posting requirement
• Executive sessions regarding real property leases, acquisitions, personnel, and legal strategy

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Smyrna Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on a rezoning request for the Church of Pentecost USA at 139-141 North Main Street and an annexation request from Wawa for properties at 5616 & 5632 Dupont Pkwy. The commission will also review and discuss an ordinance amending the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance to update bonding requirements. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference or Zoom.

• Rezoning RZ-2023-9: Church of Pentecost USA, Inc., 139-141 North Main Street
• Annexation A-2023-1: Wawa, 5616 & 5632 Dupont Pkwy
• Discussion of ordinance updating bonding requirements in the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance

Parks & Recreation

The Smyrna Parks and Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss grant applications for 2023 and 2024, upcoming town events, and potential changes to ordinances covering amusements, parks, and parades. The agenda also includes updates on the Art Trailer and routine committee business.

• ORPT Grant 2023 and 2024 discussions
• Caroling on the Square on December 10
• Town of Smyrna at Night event on June 15
• Review of Chapter 10 (amusements), Chapter 46 (parks and recreation), and Chapter 58 Article IV (parades and assemblies)
• Art Trailer update

Mayor & Council

The Town of Smyrna Council will discuss borrowing funds for water infrastructure and the conveyance of land to Kays Enterprises, LLC. The body is also considering the annexation of two parcels on Dupont Parkway.

• Proposed borrowing of up to $803,185 for the East Commerce Street water main replacement project
• Resolution to convey 5.46 +/- acres near North Main Street to Kays Enterprises, LLC
• Proposed annexation of 5632 Dupont Parkway (2.82 acres) and 5616 Dupont Parkway (0.50 acres)
• Donation request from the Smyrna/Clayton Ministerium for Thanksgiving Dinner

Smyrna Slum Clearance and Redevelopment Authority

The Authority will review its mission statement, guiding principles, and goals and action plan. The meeting also includes a report from Jeremy Rothwell regarding facade grants and loans.

• Jeremy Rothwell Report on Curt Jackson Facade Grants
• Review of Loans
• Review of Mission Statement
• Review of Guiding Principles
• Review of Goals & Action Plan

Main Street Coordinating Board

The Main Street Coordinating Board is meeting to approve prior minutes, discuss the Autumn at Duck Creek event, and select downtown street pole banner designs. Subcommittee updates will also be given. Public participation is available by phone or Zoom.

• Approval of September 6th Committee Minutes
• Discussion of Autumn at Duck Creek
• Review and selection of downtown street pole banner designs
• Subcommittee updates

Mayor & Council

The Mayor and Council will consider amending vacant building registration fees and a fence height adjustment at 403 Eagle Way. The meeting also includes the first reading of a resolution to annex two Wawa, Inc. parcels on Dupont Parkway.

• Third reading of Ordinance #014-23 to revise vacant building registration fees
• Fence height adjustment request for 403 Eagle Way
• Annexation resolution for 5632 Dupont Parkway (2.82 acres)
• Annexation resolution for 5616 Dupont Parkway (0.50 acres)
• Resolution #004-23 concerning the Annual Halloween Celebration

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Mayor and Council will hold a public hearing and consider two rezoning applications to change small parcels to Downtown Residential, plus vote on an ordinance revising vacant building registration fees. The meeting also includes a resolution on the Annual Halloween Celebration and several executive sessions for real estate, personnel, collective bargaining, and legal matters.

• Public hearing and possible action on Grantland Holdings rezoning of 0.10-acre at North School Lane and Mustard Lane from R-2 to DR
• Public hearing and possible action on Stephenson Enterprises rezoning of 0.10-acre at 20 North School Lane from R-3 to DR
• Third reading of Ordinance #014-23 to revise vacant building registration fees
• Resolution #004-23 concerning the Annual Halloween Celebration
• Executive sessions on sale/lease and acquisition of real property, personnel, collective bargaining, and litigation

Board of Adjustment

The Board will hold a public hearing on a variance application allowing construction of an inground pool in a drainage easement and discuss other items.

• Public hearing on Donte & Amber Fassett's variance to construct a pool (V-2023-509, 50 Mischief Lane)
• Kathy Medina's fence height variance application (V-2023-477, 403 Eagle Way) will be reviewed by Town Council on Oct 16

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Smyrna Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider and possibly vote on two rezoning applications: one from Grantland Holdings, LLC for property at North School Lane & Mustard Lane, and one from Stephenson Enterprises, LLC for 20 North School Lane. The meeting also includes routine items like approving minutes and recognizing visitors.

• Public hearing on rezoning application RZ-2023-7 by Grantland Holdings, LLC at North School Lane & Mustard Lane
• Public hearing on rezoning application RZ-2023-8 by Stephenson Enterprises, LLC at 20 North School Lane
• Meeting held at Smyrna Town Hall, 27 S. Market Street Plaza, with teleconference and Zoom options for public participation

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Mayor and Council will hold a regular bi-monthly meeting with a consent agenda, department head reports, and several executive sessions. Public items include discussion of park hours and the Town of Smyrna Fee Schedule. Executive sessions will cover real property lease and acquisition, personnel, collective bargaining, and legal strategy, with possible actions afterward.

• Discussion and possible action on Park Hours
• Town of Smyrna Fee Schedule review
• Executive session on lease of real property (29 Del. C. Sec. 10004(b)(2))
• Executive session on potential acquisition of real property (29 Del. C. Sec. 10004(b)(2))
• Executive sessions on personnel, collective bargaining, and litigation

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Mayor and Council will hold a public hearing and consider an ordinance revising vacant building registration fees, along with discussions on the FY24 budget, park hours, and other items. The agenda also includes several executive sessions for real estate, personnel, and legal matters.

• Public hearing and ordinance to amend Chapter 18, Article XX on vacant building registration fees
• Discussion and possible action on FY24 Council Budget
• Discussion on residential and non-residential vacant property fees (RDA)
• Emergency funding request from Smyrna/Clayton Ministerium
• Executive sessions on lease/acquisition of real property, personnel, collective bargaining, and litigation

Council approved a site plan for a 119,271 sq. ft. hospital and nursing home and granted $10,000 in emergency funding to the Smyrna/Clayton Ministerium. A new Council Travel Policy was adopted, and one HR position was reclassified. An ordinance regarding vacant building registration fees was sent back for verbiage corrections.

• Approved site plan for State of Delaware three-story hospital and nursing home
• Approved $10,000 emergency funding for Smyrna/Clayton Ministerium
• Approved revised Council Travel Policy (6-1)
• Reclassified HR position to Payroll Generalist (6-1)
• Tabled park hours changes until further information is provided
• Sent vacant building registration fee ordinance back for verbiage corrections
• Tabled Residential and Non-residential Vacant Property Fees
• Approved Council minutes and Police Department Report from 08/21/2023

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to discuss and potentially vote on two variance applications. These requests involve setbacks for constructing detached accessory structures at specific residential properties.

• Variance V-2023-89: 1 ft encroachment into side and rear setbacks for a 1,681 square feet structure at 342 West Glenwood Avenue
• Variance V-2023-434: 5.5 feet encroachment into front setback for a 20’ x 25’ detached accessory structure at 526 Kates Way

The Board of Adjustment denied a variance request for a 1,681 sq. ft. accessory pole barn at 342 West Glenwood Avenue, citing a lack of hardship. The board noted the applicant could reduce the building size or relocate it to comply with the code. The record for a second variance request at 526 Kates Way is incomplete.

• Denied variance for 1,681 sq. ft. pole barn at 342 West Glenwood Avenue
• Approved published agenda (unanimous)
• Approved July 26, 2023 minutes (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Smyrna Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider and possibly vote on a loading waiver and a preliminary Category A site plan for the Delaware Home for the Chronically Ill at 150 Sunnyside Road. The meeting includes standard procedural items like approving minutes and recognizing visitors.

• Public hearing on loading waiver for Delaware Home for the Chronically Ill (SP-2023-6), 150 Sunnyside Road
• Public hearing on preliminary Category A site plan for same property (SP-2023-6)

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Mayor and Council will hold its regular meeting, covering old and new business. Items include possible stop signs at two locations, transferring vacant property fees, street paving and bonding, and a human resources position reclassification. The meeting also includes several executive sessions on property, personnel, collective bargaining, and legal matters.

• Possible stop signs at Dorchester Court and Fayetteville Street in Village of Lake Shore
• Possible stop signs on Bluegrass Boulevard and Pebble Creek Street
• Transfer of vacant property fees to Smyrna Slum and Redevelopment Authority for 2023
• Non-residential vacant property fees (RDA)
• Street paving and bonding in Ashland Subdivision and Lake Como Woods

The Council approved the transfer of $150,000 in vacant property fees to the Smyrna Slum and Redevelopment Authority for 2023. The body also approved the reclassification of an existing safety position to a human resources position.

• Approved transfer of $150,000 in vacant property fees to Smyrna Slum and Redevelopment Authority (4-2)
• Approved reclassification of existing safety position to HR position
• Accepted Council and Executive Session minutes from 08/07/2023
• Accepted Treasury Report

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission is meeting to discuss replacing damaged trees in the RT 13 median, tree replacement at Town Hall, and plans for an Arbor Day celebration. The agenda includes routine items like approving minutes and recognizing visitors, with public participation available via teleconference or Zoom.

• Discussion on replacement plantings for RT 13 median to replace damaged trees
• Tree replacement at Town Hall
• Arbor Day Celebration planning

The Commission discussed replacing approximately 10 trees removed from a median due to an accident and reviewed a list of miniature/weeping crepes. Members discussed the need for a dedicated arborist to improve tree care and survival rates. No formal votes were recorded.

• Discussed replacing ~10 median trees with miniature/weeping crepes
• Proposed using ArborPro to track tree work for grants and Tree City application
• Discussed potential for tree injections for Eastern Ash Bore as an alternative to removal
• Identified lack of staff for watering and care as a reason only 2 trees were planted in 2022

Smyrna Slum Clearance and Redevelopment Authority

The Smyrna Slum Clearance and Redevelopment Authority is meeting to handle routine business, including minutes, a finance report, and a report from Jeremy Rothwell. They will also discuss a facade grant for Mt Olive Pentecostal Church, review their mission statement, and go over their goals and action plan. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference or Zoom.

• Facade grant for Mt Olive Pentecostal Church
• Review of mission statement
• Review of goals and action plan (Goals 1-4 assigned to members)
• Finance report
• Report from Jeremy Rothwell

Main Street Coordinating Board

The Main Street Coordinating Board is meeting to approve minutes, review a draft for downtown street banners and signage, and hear subcommittee reports. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference or Zoom.

• Review and discussion of draft downtown street banners and signage
• Approval of July 11th committee minutes
• Subcommittee reports

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to consider and possibly vote on several variance requests for 365 North Main Street. The applications involve modifications to parking space limits, landscaped island requirements, and tree planting counts.

• Variance (V-2023-385) regarding exceeding the maximum of 15 consecutive parking spaces in a single row
• Variance regarding the removal of required landscaped islands at ends of parking rows
• Variance to plant 129 trees instead of the required 275 trees

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved three variances to facilitate a 36,400 sq. ft. addition to North Smyrna Elementary School. The decisions allow for modified parking layouts and a reduced number of required trees to maintain playground space and emergency vehicle access.

• Approved variance to exceed 15 consecutive parking spaces in a single row (Unanimous)
• Approved variance to use painted islands instead of landscaped islands at the end of parking rows (Unanimous)
• Approved variance to plant 127 trees instead of the required 275 (Unanimous)
• Approved May 24, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved published agenda (Unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Smyrna Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider and possibly vote on three applications: a parking waiver for North Smyrna Elementary, and a rezoning and subdivision request from SBCL Smyrna Properties, LLC at 1181 Duck Creek Road. The meeting also includes routine items like approving minutes and other business.

• Parking waiver for North Smyrna Elementary, 365 North Main Street (V-2023-385)
• Rezoning request by SBCL Smyrna Properties, LLC, 1181 Duck Creek Road (RZ-2023-6)
• Subdivision request by SBCL Smyrna Properties, LLC, 1181 Duck Creek Road (SD-2023-2)

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Mayor and Council will hold a public hearing and consider a conditional use application for a two-family dwelling, along with several other items including stop sign studies, a sewer rate increase discussion, and a bid award. The meeting also includes consent agenda items, reports, and executive sessions for real property leasing, collective bargaining, and personnel matters.

• Conditional Use application by Nasir Baqi for a 3,240 sq. ft. two-family dwelling at 115 S. Dupont Blvd
• Stop sign study results for Dorchester Court/Fayetteville Street and Bluegrass Boulevard/Pebble Creek Street
• Discussion of Kent County sewer rate increase
• Bid award for East Commerce St / Locust St Phase III capital project
• Possible transfer of vacant property fees to Smyrna Slum and Redevelopment Authority

Council approved a conditional use application for a two-family home and awarded a capital project bid to Reybold Construction. The board also approved the transfer of vacant property fees and a pass-through for Kent County sewer rate increases.

• Approved conditional use for 2-story two-family dwelling at 115 S. Dupont Blvd (unanimous)
• Approved bid award for East Commerce St/Locust Street Phase III to Reybold Construction (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of $20,000 to $25,000/yr in vacant property fees to Smyrna Slum and Redevelopment Authority (unanimous)
• Approved waiver of grant money for recording Restrictive Deed covenants (unanimous)
• Approved Kent County sewer rate increase as a pass-through to residents (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including 06/20/2023 minutes and Police Department report (unanimous)
• Tabled decision on stop signs at Dorchester Court/Fayetteville Street and Bluegrass Blvd/Pebble Creek Street for future work session

Main Street Coordinating Board

The Main Street Coordinating Board is holding a routine meeting with no major decisions on the agenda. Items are limited to approving prior meeting minutes, hearing subcommittee updates, and other general business. No public hearings, contracts, or ordinance changes are listed.

• Approval of minutes from May 3rd and June 7th meetings
• Updates from subcommittees
• Public participation via Zoom or phone

Main Street Coordinating Board

The Main Street Coordinating Board is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda contains only routine procedural items: approving the agenda and prior meeting minutes, recognizing visitors, receiving subcommittee updates, and other committee business. No specific decisions, proposals, or public hearings are listed.

• Approval of minutes from May 3rd and June 7th meetings
• Updates from subcommittees
• Other committee business

Smyrna Slum Clearance and Redevelopment Authority

The Smyrna Slum Clearance and Redevelopment Authority is meeting to review financial reports, hear updates on facade grants and loans, and discuss action plan items. Decisions may be made on recording restrictive deed covenants for facade grants, collecting vacancy fees, and changing Goal 4. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference or Zoom.

• Report from True Access Capital by Lorenzo Merino
• Report by Jeremy Rothwell on applications for facade grants, loans, and grants
• Discussion and possible decision on recording restrictive deed covenants for facade grants
• Discussion and possible decision on collection and depositing of vacancy fees
• Suggestion to change Goal 4 of the action plan

The Authority approved a request for the Town Council to transfer 2023 vacant property fees to the RDA. Members also updated the organization's investment goals and recommended changes to how facade grant recording fees are handled.

• Approved request for Town Council to transfer 2023 Vacant Property fees to RDA
• Approved updated language for Goal 4 regarding promoting new investment and financing
• Approved recommendation to Mayor and Council to keep recording Restrictive Deed covenants and deduct fees from grant monies
• Approved May 25, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved financial report as of May 30, 2023

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Smyrna Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a conditional use application for 115 South Dupont Blvd and a preliminary Category B site plan for a Planet Fitness at 36 Cory Lane. Two applications for rezoning and subdivision at 1181 Duck Creek Road have been withdrawn and will not be considered. The meeting also includes routine items like approval of minutes and public recognition.

• Conditional Use: Nasir Baqi – CU-2023-301, 115 South Dupont Blvd
• Preliminary Category B Site Plan: Liborio Hotel Smyrna, LLC – SP-2023-004, Planet Fitness, 36 Cory Lane
• Rezoning RZ-2023-6 (SBCL Smyrna Properties, LLC) – withdrawn
• Subdivision SD-2023-2 (SBCL Smyrna Properties, LLC) – withdrawn

The provided document is a meeting agenda rather than minutes. It lists proposed items for consideration, including a conditional use application and a site plan, but does not record any decisions or outcomes.

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Town Council approved a concept major subdivision for a large residential development at 1705 Joe Goldsborough Road, which will subdivide 57.28 acres into 118 parcels. The project includes 110 townhouses and 324 apartment units, along with new streets and open spaces. The council also approved a T-Mobile grant for two public art murals downtown and accepted the streets in the Bergmont Woods development. Additionally, the council voted to reduce wastewater calculations for equivalent dwelling units to 250 gallons per day.

• Approved Concept Major Subdivision for 110 townhouses and 324 apartments at 1705 Joe Goldsborough Road
• Approved T-Mobile Hometown Grant for two murals at 2 N. Main Street and Stokesberry House
• Accepted Bergmont Woods streets for public use and dedication
• Approved ordinance reducing wastewater calculations to 250 gallons per day per equivalent dwelling unit
• Approved low bid for Artisan Drive road restoration

The Council approved a concept plan for a major subdivision at 1705 Joe Goldsborough Road and accepted the dedication of streets in Bergmont Woods. Several ordinances regarding wastewater calculations and waste container enclosures were passed. The Council also approved a grant for downtown murals and a road restoration project for Artisan Drive.

• Approved concept plan for 110 townhouses and 324 apartments at 1705 Joe Goldsborough Road (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of Bergmont Woods streets for public use (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance reducing wastewater calculations for equivalent dwelling units to 250 gallons per day (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance clarifying standards for waste container enclosures (unanimous)
• Approved T-Mobile Hometown Grant for two downtown murals (unanimous)
• Approved moving forward with U.S. DOT Safe Streets for All Action Plan (unanimous)
• Approved low bid for Artisan Drive road restoration (unanimous)
• Tabled stop sign requests for Dorchester Court/Fayetteville Street and Bluegrass Boulevard/Pebble Creek Street pending studies

Main Street Coordinating Board

The board discussed planning for the Autumn in Duck Creek event and potential mural grant proposals. DelDOT approved a TAP grant for the planning of Commerce Street. No formal votes were recorded during the meeting.

• DelDOT approved TAP grant for Commerce Street planning
• Proposed Autumn in Duck Creek event for first weekend of November 2023
• Proposed $2,000 budget for Autumn in Duck Creek event
• Planned grant proposal for downtown murals to be shared with Town Council

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Mayor and Council will hold public hearings on a proposed 66,000 sq. ft. intermediate school, a rezoning request, and two zoning ordinance amendments. The regular meeting will then consider these items and other business, including appointments, infrastructure updates, and executive sessions.

• Public hearing: Smyrna School District preliminary site plan for 66,000 sq. ft. school on 13.65 acres off Rabbit Chase Lane
• Public hearing: Rezone 0.15-acre parcel at 326 W. Commerce Street from R-3 to DR
• Public hearing: Ordinance to eliminate distance requirement for most personal services in CC district
• Public hearing: Ordinance to reduce wastewater EDU calculation to 250 gallons per day
• Discussion: Impact fee study for fire and ambulance services

The Council approved a site plan for a new two-story intermediate school on Rabbit Chase Lane and authorized $100,000 for a records digitization project. Several zoning changes and a wastewater ordinance were passed. The Council also appointed Carol Binns to the Main Street Coordinating Board.

• Approved Preliminary Category A Site Plan for 66,000 sq. ft. intermediate school (7-0)
• Approved $100,000 from RDA for file digitization and retention project (7-0)
• Approved motion to form a retention policy (7-0)
• Approved rezoning of 0.15-acre parcel at 326 W. Commerce Street from R-3 to DR (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance #010-23 eliminating distance requirements for most personal services in CC zoning (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance #012-23 reducing wastewater calculations for equivalent dwelling units to 250 gallons per day (7-0)
• Appointed Carol Binns to the Main Street Coordinating Board (7-0)
• Approved road modification (unanimous)

Smyrna Slum Clearance and Redevelopment Authority

The Smyrna Slum Clearance and Redevelopment Authority will hold a regular meeting to discuss and possibly act on a Façade Grant application, review the mission and status of strategic plan goals, and address old business including the 2023 budget, loan status, and bank signors. The agenda also includes a discussion on a USDA account, its purpose, fiscal responsibility, and potential use for new loans. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference.

• Discussion and possible action on Façade Grant application
• Review of 2023 budget
• Loan status updates
• Authorized signors for PNC bank
• USDA account discussion: purpose, fiscal responsibility, and use for new loans

The provided minutes for the May 25, 2023 meeting consist of an agenda and procedural items. There are no recorded votes, approvals, or specific outcomes for the items discussed.

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to consider, discuss, and possibly vote on a variance application for Jack Honeycutt. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes and other standard procedural items.

• Variance application V-2023-89 for 342 West Glenwood Avenue

The Board of Adjustment tabled a variance request for a proposed 1,515 sq. ft. accessory pole barn because the applicant did not attend the meeting. The board also approved the published agenda and the minutes from April 26, 2023.

• Approved published agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 26, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled variance request for 342 West Glenwood Avenue to reduce side and rear setbacks (4-1)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Smyrna Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider and possibly vote on three applications: a conditional use for a property on Paulette Drive, a preliminary Category B site plan for North Smyrna Elementary School, and a concept Category A site plan/major subdivision for Goldsborough Road Development. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference or Zoom.

• Conditional Use CU-2023-200 for Robert Dawson at 49 Paulette Drive
• Preliminary Category B Site Plan SP-2023-2 for North Smyrna Elementary School at 365 North Main Street
• Concept Category A Site Plan/Major Subdivision SP-2023-3/SD-2023-1 for Goldsborough Road Development, LLC at 1705 Goldsborough Road

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Town Council discussed a major reorganization of committees and commissions, including sunsetting the Finance and Utility Committees and creating a Pension Review Committee. Council also voted on several items: approving waste container enclosures, a repayment agreement for electric service, a road modification at Duck Creek Library, appointments, and a tax assessment list. A motion to conduct a state audit failed 4-3 after initial approval.

• Sunset Finance and Utility Committees; create Pension Review Committee
• Approve waste container enclosure ordinance (1st reading), passed 7-0
• Approve repayment agreement for electric service (3rd reading)
• Approve Duck Creek Library road modification
• State audit motion failed 4-3

The Council voted to sunset the Finance and Utility committees, moving their functions to public workshops. Several ordinances and agreements were approved, including waste container enclosures and road modifications. A proposal to conduct a state audit failed after further discussion.

• Approved reorganization of committees and moving Finance/Utility functions to workshops (6-1)
• Approved waste container enclosure ordinance (7-0)
• Approved repayment agreement for electric service (unanimous)
• Approved Duck Creek Library road modification (unanimous)
• Approved various appointments and re-appointments (unanimous)
• Waived $250 grass cutting tax assessment for Juantia Court (unanimous)
• Approved Town of Smyrna tax assessment list (unanimous)
• Denied motion to conduct a state audit (4-3)

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Mayor and Council will hold a regular meeting on May 3, 2023, at 7:00 PM. They will consider an ordinance requiring repayment agreements for priority utility accounts to prevent electric disconnection, and a billing policy for second water meters. New business includes discussions on wastewater design changes, impact fees for Citizens' Hose Company and American Legion Ambulance, landlord notification responsibilities, and Senate Bill SB99. The agenda also includes executive sessions for legal advice and potential real property acquisition.

• Ordinance to require repayment agreements for priority utility accounts to prevent electric disconnection
• Billing policy for second water meters
• Town of Smyrna Wastewater Design Change
• Citizens' Hose Company and American Legion Ambulance Impact Fees
• Senate Bill SB99 discussion

The Smyrna Town Council approved a $7.25 monthly administration fee for yard water meters from April to October (6-1, Forbes dissenting). The council also voted unanimously to oppose Senate Bill SB99, which Chief James said undermines municipal policing. A letter outlining landlord responsibilities will be sent annually. No action was taken on fire department impact fees, which were moved to a future meeting.

• Approved $7.25 seasonal water meter fee (6-1, Forbes dissenting)
• Voted to oppose Senate Bill SB99 (unanimous)
• Approved annual landlord responsibility letter (unanimous)
• Approved Councilwoman Forbes' attendance at National Foundation for Women Legislators conference (unanimous)
• Moved fire department impact fee discussion to May 15, 2023 meeting (no motion carried)
• Approved consent agenda excluding Treasury Report (unanimous)
• Approved Treasury Report for 2nd meeting of month (unanimous)
• Moved forward with two items from executive session (unanimous)

Mayor & Council

This is the annual organizational meeting of the Smyrna Mayor and Council. The council will hear the Election Board report, swear in the Mayor and Council Member, make appointments for Vice Mayor and secretaries, set the meeting schedule, and authorize bank account signatures. No policy decisions or public hearings are on the agenda.

• Report of the Election Board
• Swearing-in ceremony for Mayor and Council Member
• Appointments: Vice Mayor, Council Secretary, Recording Secretary
• Set meeting time: 7:00 PM first and third Monday monthly (except holidays)
• Authorize signatures for 16 bank accounts, including ARPA accounts

The meeting was primarily procedural: the council accepted the agenda, received certified election results, swore in the mayor and council members, and made appointments for vice mayor, council secretary, and recording secretary. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Accepted the agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Appointed Michael Rasmussen as Vice Mayor, William D. Pressley Sr. as At-Large, and Mary Bowers-Johnson as Recording Secretary (unanimous)
• Set council meetings for 7:00 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month (unanimous)
• Approved authorized signatures for bank accounts (unanimous)

Main Street Coordinating Board

The Main Street Coordinating Board is meeting to approve the April 5th committee minutes, hear subcommittee reports, and conduct other routine business. The agenda is procedural with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of April 5th Committee Minutes
• Subcommittee Reports
• Other committee business

Smyrna Slum Clearance and Redevelopment Authority

The Smyrna Slum Clearance and Redevelopment Authority will meet to elect officers, review treasury reports and loan accounts, discuss the 2023 budget, and consider a strategic plan. The agenda includes public participation via teleconference or Zoom.

• Election of chair, vice-chair, treasurer, and secretary
• Review of Smyrna Slum Clearance and USDA account balances
• Review of loan agreements and payment activity reports
• Discussion and approval of Strategic Plan
• Discussion of 2023 budget and USDA account purpose

The Authority elected its leadership through January 2024 and updated authorized signors for its accounts. The board also approved a financial report and requested payment verification for a delinquent loan from 13a, LLC.

• Approved March minutes
• Approved financial report as of 3/31/23
• Elected Rick Horsey as Chairperson until January 2024
• Elected David Thomas as Vice-Chairperson until January 2024
• Elected Sharon Wright as Treasurer until January 2024
• Elected Fred Schaber as Secretary until January 2024
• Approved request for 13a, LLC to provide proof of payments for six specific dates
• Authorized Sharon Wright and Travis Stewart as account signors; any two signors may now sign checks

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will conduct public hearings to consider, discuss, and possibly vote on several special exception and variance applications. These items involve specific properties in Smyrna, including requests from the Smyrna School District.

• Special Exception application for 334 West Mount Vernon Street
• Variance application for 342 West Glenwood Avenue
• Variance application for 438 North School Lane
• Variance application for Smyrna School District properties on Rabbit Chase Lane

The Board approved a special exception for a dog grooming business at 334 West Mount Vernon Street. A variance request for a pole barn was tabled, and a request for a front porch variance was heard but not decided in the provided text.

• Approved special exception for dog grooming business at 334 West Mount Vernon Street (5-0)
• Tabled variance request for pole barn at 342 West Glenwood Avenue
• Approved February 22, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved published agenda (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Smyrna Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing and possibly vote on a parking waiver, a rezoning, and a preliminary site plan for the Smyrna School District. The commission will also review and possibly act on two ordinance amendments: one clarifying waste container enclosure standards and another eliminating minimum distance requirements for personal services uses in the CC Central Commercial District. The meeting includes routine items like approving prior minutes and recognizing visitors.

• Parking waiver request by Kayla McAlpine for 334 W. Mount Vernon Street
• Rezoning application RZ-2023-005 by Maria Sammander for 326 West Commerce Street
• Preliminary Category A Site Plan by Smyrna School District for Rabbit Chase Lane (multiple parcels)
• Ordinance to clarify standards for waste container enclosures
• Ordinance to eliminate minimum distance requirements for personal services uses in CC Central Commercial District

The Commission held a public hearing regarding an after-the-fact conditional use request to establish a 400 sq. ft. accessory dwelling unit (ADU) at 49 Paulette Drive. The applicant had previously converted a garage into a rental unit without permits. The provided minutes end before a final decision on the application was recorded.

• Approved minutes of April 26, 2023, and March 22, 2023 (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Smyrna Finance Committee is meeting to discuss routine financial matters, including an update on the Munis software conversion, a review of the financial report, progress on bank reconciliation, and plans for the FY2022 audit. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Update on Munis conversion
• Review financial report
• Update on bank reconciliation progress
• Plans/schedule for FY2022 audit

Shade Tree Commission

The Smyrna Shade Tree Commission is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving minutes, following up on a tree replacement at Town Hall, planning the Arbor Day celebration, and considering plantings for Sunnyside Park. The agenda is mostly procedural and contains no specific dollar amounts or detailed proposals.

• Follow-up on tree replacement at Town Hall
• Arbor Day Celebration planning
• Plantings for Sunnyside Park

The Commission approved the previous meeting's minutes and coordinated logistics for an Arbor Day planting on April 23. Members discussed planting bushes instead of trees at Sunnyside Park due to damage and staffing constraints.

• Approved previous meeting minutes
• Scheduled Arbor Day planting of a Sun Valley Maple for April 23 at 4 pm
• Proposed planting barberry, butterfly, or ninebark bushes at Sunnyside Park

Parks & Recreation

The Smyrna Parks & Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss several upcoming community events, including the Red Sand Project, Carry the Load, and Smyrna at Night. The committee will also discuss potential amendments to ordinances concerning amusements, parks and recreation, and parades and assemblies. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference.

• Red Sand Project event on Sunday, April 23
• Carry the Load event
• Smyrna at Night event on June 17
• Discussion of Chapter 10 (amusements), Chapter 46 (parks and recreation), and Chapter 58, Article IV (parades and assemblies) ordinances

The committee approved the minutes from the September 20, 2022 meeting. Members discussed upcoming community events and the need to update and potentially combine ordinances regarding amusements, parks and recreation, and parades and assemblies. The committee also discussed vandalism and safety concerns at Sunnyside Park.

• Approved meeting minutes from 9/20/22

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Mayor and Council will hold public hearings and consider several rezoning applications to align properties with the 2020 Comprehensive Plan, a conditional use for a townhouse, and a large new hospital building. They will also discuss the FY2023 budget, a library tax district resolution, and various fees. The agenda includes both regular business and executive sessions for legal and personnel matters.

• Rezone 0.11-acre at 120 N. Lincoln St. from R-2 to DR (HD Miller, LLC)
• Rezone 0.38-acre at 321-323 W. Commerce St. from R-3 to DR (Property Connect, LLC)
• Conditional use for attached townhouse at 321-323 W. Commerce St.
• Rezone 0.13-acre at 222 N. Main St. from R-3 to DR (Sammander)
• State of Delaware: 119,271 sq. ft. new Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill at 150 Sunnyside Rd.

The Council approved three residential rezoning applications to Downtown Residential and a conditional use permit for a townhouse. The Council also approved a one-time start-up budget for the Redevelopment Authority (RDA) and subsequently voted to decrease that budget by $100,000.

• Approved rezoning of 120 North Lincoln Street from R-2 to DR (7-0)
• Approved rezoning of 321-323 W. Commerce Street from R-3 to DR (7-0)
• Approved conditional use for attached townhouse at 321-323 W. Commerce Street
• Approved rezoning of 222 N. Main Street from R-3 to DR (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved one-time RDA start-up budget of $100,000 (4-3)
• Approved decrease in RDA budget by $100,000 (5-1, 1 abstention)
• Approved re-appointment of Dave Thomas to the Redevelopment Authority (RDA)
• Approved agenda and consent agenda unanimously

Shade Tree Commission

The Commission approved the previous meeting minutes and coordinated an Arbor Day celebration for April 23. Members discussed planting dogwoods at Town Hall and soil testing for Sunnyside Park.

• Approved previous meeting minutes
• Scheduled Arbor Day planting of a Sun Valley Maple for April 23 at 4 pm

Utility Committee

The Smyrna Utility Committee is meeting to discuss routine business, including capital projects, waste management issues, solar panel requirements, and customer service guidelines. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no specific decisions or dollar amounts listed.

• Capital Projects Update
• Waste Management Issues
• Solar Panels Requirements
• Customer Service Guidelines (Based on Council Directives)

The Utilities Committee recommended that the $7.25 yard meter service fee be charged only from April through October. The committee also recommended that council review guidelines for residents seeking information on installing panels.

• Approved April minutes
• Recommended to council that yard meter service charges become seasonal (April-October)
• Recommended to council a review of guidelines for residents installing panels

Main Street Coordinating Board

The Main Street Coordinating Board is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, covering approval of prior minutes, subcommittee reports, and other committee business, with no specific action items listed.

• Approval of March 1st Committee Minutes
• Subcommittee Reports
• Other committee business

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Mayor and Council will hold a regular meeting to discuss and possibly act on several items, including certifying candidates for the April 25th election, a proposed ordinance requiring repayment agreements for priority utility accounts to prevent electric disconnection, and approving 2023 senior tax exemptions and property tax assessments. The agenda also includes a presentation on a recycling quality program and a street renaming proposal. The meeting will end with an executive session on pending litigation.

• Certify list of candidates for April 25th election
• Ordinance to require repayment agreements for priority utility accounts to prevent electric disconnection
• Approval of 2023 Senior Tax Exemptions
• Approval of 2023 Proposed Property Tax Assessments
• Renaming of public street

Town Council approved a new Recycling Quality Program and an ordinance requiring repayment agreements for priority utility accounts to prevent electric disconnection. The council also certified the amended 2023 election candidate list and approved 2023 senior tax exemptions.

• Approved consent agenda including 04/03/2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved amended list of candidates for 2023 election (unanimous)
• Tabled renaming of public street
• Approved Recycling Quality Program (unanimous)
• Approved Town Code amendment requiring repayment agreements for priority utility accounts (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Senior Tax Exemptions (unanimous)
• Swore in Susan McClements, Gerri McNeal, and Richard Rubin to the 2023 Election & Registration Board

Smyrna Slum Clearance and Redevelopment Authority

The Smyrna Slum Clearance and Redevelopment Authority will discuss and possibly act on a façade grant application and begin administering the redevelopment program. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference or Zoom.

• Façade Grant application 2023-01 (James P. & Helen Joanne Masten – 344 West South St.)
• Discussion and possible action on starting the redevelopment program administration
• Financial report
• New meeting date: Last Thursday of each month

The Authority elected its Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Treasurer, and Secretary to serve until January 2024. Members approved a new financial report and updated the authorized signors for RDA accounts. The board also requested payment verification from a borrower with seven missing loan payments.

• Elected Rick Horsey as Chairperson until January 2024
• Elected David Thomas as Vice-Chairperson until January 2024
• Elected Sharon Wright as Treasurer until January 2024
• Elected Fred Schaber as Secretary until January 2024
• Approved financial report as of 3/31/23 (USDA: $139,077.61; Slum Clearance: $11,643.91)
• Authorized Sharon Wright and Travis Stewart as account signors
• Approved allowing any two authorized signors to sign RDA checks
• Approved request for 13a, LLC to provide proof of payments for six specific dates between 2016 and 2020

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Smyrna Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider and possibly vote on three rezoning applications, one conditional use request, and a preliminary site plan. The properties involved are located on West Commerce Street, North Main Street, Rabbit Chase Lane, and Sunnyside Road.

• Rezoning request RZ-2023-03 by Property Connect, LLC for 321-323 West Commerce Street
• Rezoning request RZ-2023-01 by Osman Sammander for 222 North Main Street
• Rezoning request RZ-2023-04 by HD Miller, LLC for 123 Rabbit Chase Lane
• Conditional use request CU-2023-77 by Property Connect, LLC for 321-323 West Commerce Street
• Preliminary Category B site plan SP-2023-1 by State of Delaware for 100 Sunnyside Road

The Planning & Zoning Commission recommended three residential properties for rezoning to Downtown Residential to align with the 2020 Comprehensive Plan. The commission also approved a preliminary site plan for a new DNREC lab and office building, subject to several staff conditions.

• Recommended approval to Town Council for rezoning and conditional use of 321-323 West Commerce Street to allow a townhouse dwelling
• Recommended approval to Town Council for rezoning 222 North Main Street from R-3 to Downtown Residential
• Recommended approval to Town Council for rezoning 120 Rabbit Chase Lane from R-2 to Downtown Residential
• Approved Preliminary Category B Site Plan for a 30,448 sq. ft. DNREC lab and office building at 100 Sunnyside Road subject to staff conditions

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Smyrna Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider and possibly vote on three rezoning applications, one conditional use application, and a preliminary site plan. The properties involved are located on West Commerce Street, North Main Street, Rabbit Chase Lane, and Sunnyside Road. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference or Zoom.

• Rezoning #RZ-2023-03: Property Connect, LLC, 321-323 West Commerce Street
• Rezoning #RZ-2023-01: Osman Sammander, 222 North Main Street
• Rezoning #RZ-2023-04: HD Miller, LLC, 123 Rabbit Chase Lane
• Conditional Use #CU-2023-77: Property Connect, LLC, 321-323 West Commerce Street
• Preliminary Category B Site Plan #SP-2023-1: State of Delaware, 100 Sunnyside Road

Parks & Recreation

The Smyrna Parks & Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss upcoming events and activities. Items include the Red Sand Project on April 23, Smyrna at Night, and a discussion with the Smyrna Police Department about movies in the downtown/park area. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference or Zoom.

• Red Sand Project event scheduled for April 23 (Sunday)
• Discussion of Smyrna at Night event
• Discussion with Smyrna Police Department about movies downtown/park

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Mayor and Council will hold public hearings and consider rezoning requests for three properties, including a school district parcel and two downtown parcels, plus a zoning ordinance amendment. They will also discuss renaming a street, establishing Juneteenth as a town holiday, adopting the 2023 fee schedule, and certifying election candidates. The meeting includes consent agenda items and executive sessions for legal and personnel matters.

• Rezone 16.3-acre parcel at 123 Rabbit Chase Lane from R-2A to I&R (Smyrna School District)
• Rezone 0.39-acre parcel at 178 S. Main Street from R-3 to DR (Everest Properties)
• Rezone 0.38-acre parcel at 184 S. Main Street from R-3 to DR (Everest Properties)
• Ordinance amending Appendix A (Zoning) to revise bulk standards and use tables
• Resolution adopting 2023 Town of Smyrna Fee Schedule

The Town Council approved three rezoning applications and an ordinance updating zoning bulk standards. Council also established Juneteenth as a permanent town holiday and adopted the 2023 fee schedule.

• Approved rezoning of 16.3-acre parcel at 123 Rabbit Chase Lane to Institutional and Recreational (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 0.39-acre and 0.38-acre parcels at 178 and 184 S. Main Street to Downtown Residential (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance amending Appendix A (Zoning) of the Town Code to revise bulk standards (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Town of Smyrna Fee Schedule (unanimous)
• Established Juneteenth as a permanent Town Holiday (unanimous)
• Voted 6-1 to keep new sidewalks in Lake Como Woods at 4 feet instead of 5 feet
• Certified candidate list for April 25th election (unanimous)
• Scheduled 'Meet the Candidates Night' for April 4th, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Smyrna Finance Committee is meeting to review the proposed Capital Budget and discuss the FY24 budget process. They will also review FY22 and FY23 financials, discuss property tax and utility bill write-off processes, and set meeting dates for the year. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference or Zoom.

• Review proposed Capital Budget
• Review FY22 and FY23 financials
• Discuss property tax write-off and sheriff sale process
• Discuss utility bill write-off process
• Discuss FY24 budget process

Shade Tree Commission

The Smyrna Shade Tree Commission is meeting to discuss replacing damaged trees in the RT 13 median, a tree replacement at Town Hall, and plans for an Arbor Day celebration. The agenda is mostly routine business with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Discussion on replacement plantings for RT 13 median to replace damaged trees
• Tree replacement at Town Hall
• Arbor Day Celebration planning

The Commission discussed replacement plantings for the RT 13 median and Town Hall. It scheduled the 2023 Arbor Day celebration for April 23. No formal votes were recorded for the proposed plantings or markers.

• Scheduled Arbor Day celebration for April 23 at 4 pm on Artisan Dr.
• Proposed replacement of damaged trees on RT 13 median
• Proposed planting of 2 trees at Town Hall in May

Utility Committee

The Smyrna Utility Committee is meeting to discuss updates on capital projects and the status of an electric circuit upgrade, as well as customer trash billing for owners and renters. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference or Zoom.

• Capital projects update
• Status on electric circuit upgrade
• Customer trash billing (Owner/Renter)

The committee noted that water, sewer, and electric rate increases will begin in April. Updates were provided on several capital projects, including the Lake Como Dam repair and north water tower construction. The committee also discussed trash billing and the potential addition of Sharon Wright to the committee.

• Approved February meeting minutes

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Mayor and Council will hold its regular meeting, including a consent agenda with routine reports, a presentation on the FY2023 budget amendment, and a resolution for the DEMEC 2023 AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) project. The council will also consider adding Donna Komorowski to a commission and may enter executive session to discuss potential real property sales or leases.

• Amendment to FY2023 Budget
• DEMEC 2023 - AMI Project - Resolution
• Add Donna Komorowski to the Commission
• Executive session on potential sales or leases of real property
• Consent agenda: council minutes, treasury report, police monthly report

The Council approved three rezoning applications and an ordinance updating zoning bulk standards. The body also established Juneteenth as a permanent town holiday and adopted the 2023 fee schedule.

• Approved rezoning of 16.3-acre parcel at 123 Rabbit Chase Lane to Institutional and Recreational (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of parcels at 178 and 184 S. Main Street to Downtown Residential (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance to revise zoning bulk standards and use tables (unanimous)
• Established Juneteenth as a permanent Town Holiday (unanimous)
• Adopted the 2023 Town of Smyrna Fee Schedule (unanimous)
• Voted 6-1 to keep new sidewalks at 4 feet instead of 5 feet
• Certified candidate list for April 25th election (unanimous)
• Scheduled 'Meet the Candidates Night' for April 4th, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. (unanimous)

Main Street Coordinating Board

The Main Street Coordinating Board approved the minutes from the January 18, 2023, meeting. Members received updates on streetscape planning, a proposed digital welcome packet, and arts subcommittee assignments.

• Approved minutes from 1-18-23 (Voice Vote)

Smyrna Slum Clearance and Redevelopment Authority

The Smyrna Slum Clearance and Redevelopment Authority is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, reviewing the treasury report and audit, and discussing how to administer redevelopment funding. They will also review a questionnaire and letter to be sent to owners of vacant housing. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference or Zoom.

• Review of audit report and account balances
• Review of pathways to administer redevelopment funding
• Review of questionnaire and letter for vacant housing owners
• New meeting date set: last Thursday of each month

Historic District Review Board

The Smyrna Historic District Review Board is meeting to review and approve minutes and consider a new business item: a Historic District Application for signs at 14 North Main Street. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no other substantive items listed.

• Review of Historic District Application for 14 North Main Street (signs)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing and possibly vote on a special exception application (22-123) from the Smyrna School District for property at 123 Rabbit Chase Lane. The meeting also includes routine procedural items.

• Public hearing on special exception application 22-123 by Smyrna School District for 123 Rabbit Chase Lane

The Board of Adjustment approved a special exception for the Smyrna School District to replace a monument sign with an electronic variable messaging sign (EVMS) at 123 Rabbit Chase Lane. This approval is contingent upon the property being rezoned to Institutional & Recreational (I & R).

• Approved special exception application #22-123 to install an EVMS (5-0)
• Approved January 25, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved published agenda (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Smyrna Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider and possibly vote on three rezoning applications and a Concept Category A Site Plan. The commission will also review and discuss the Thomas England Site Plan Extension Request. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference or Zoom.

• Rezoning: Everest Properties, LLC – 178 South Main Street (22-120)
• Rezoning: Everest Properties, LLC – 184 South Main Street (22-119)
• Rezoning: Smyrna School District – 123 Rabbit Chase Lane (22-116)
• Concept Category A Site Plan: State of Delaware – 150 Sunnyside Road (22-118)
• Review of Thomas England Site Plan Extension Request

The commission approved rezoning for two parcels on South Main Street and the Sunnyside Elementary School site to align with the 2020 Comprehensive Plan. An 18-month site plan extension for Thomas England was also granted. A concept review for a new state hospital was discussed, but no recommendations were made.

• Approved rezoning of 178 South Main Street from R-3 to DR (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 184 South Main Street from R-3 to DR (unanimous)
• Tabled parking waiver application for 184 South Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 123 Rabbit Chase Lane from R-2A to I&R (unanimous)
• Approved 18-month site plan extension for Thomas England (unanimous)
• Approved January 25, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation

The Smyrna Parks & Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss several items, including the Red Sand Project, the Smyrna at Night event, a follow-up with Senator Carper's office, and movies downtown/park. They will also receive updates on ORPT 2022 and 2023 grants, covering the GCW Jr park bathrooms and ADA-compliant playground equipment. The meeting is open to the public via teleconference or Zoom.

• Red Sand Project discussion
• Smyrna at Night event
• Follow-up with Senator Carper's Office
• ORPT 2022 grant: GCW Jr park bathrooms
• ORPT 2023 grant: ADA-compliant playground equipment

Finance Committee

The Smyrna Finance Committee is meeting to review the proposed Capital Budget and receive the Treasury Report. The agenda also includes approval of minutes and other committee business. This is a regular meeting with no specific action items detailed beyond the budget review.

• Review of proposed Capital Budget
• Treasury Report
• Approval of minutes

Utility Committee

The Smyrna Utility Committee is meeting to discuss capital projects, a refund policy, and an electric circuit upgrade. The committee will also review its 2023 goals. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda; items are for discussion only.

• Discussion on refund policy
• Discussion on electric circuit upgrade
• Capital projects update
• Review 2023 committee goals

Utility Committee

The Smyrna Utility Committee is meeting to discuss capital projects, a refund policy, and an electric circuit upgrade. The committee will also review its 2023 goals. No votes or final decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Capital projects update
• Discussion on refund policy
• Discussion on electric circuit upgrade
• Review of 2023 committee goals

The Utility Committee recommended that Town Council work with staff to determine the requirements and community impact of switching to an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system. The committee also reviewed updates on several capital projects and the status of electric circuit upgrades.

• Accepted January minutes
• Recommended Council move forward with staff to evaluate AMI smart meter implementation
• Referred deposit return policy to Charter and Ordinance Review for March

Charter and Ordinance Review

The Smyrna Charter and Ordinance Review Committee is meeting to discuss and possibly take action on three items: business license renewal, a house on Mt. Vernon Street that needs to be torn down, and a sidewalk/driveway matter. The agenda is otherwise routine, with no major ordinances or contracts listed.

• Business License Renewal
• Update on house on Mt. Vernon Street that needs to be torn down
• Sidewalk/Driveway

Main Street Coordinating Board

The Main Street Board's Arts Subcommittee is meeting to discuss creating an Arts Master Plan for the town. The agenda includes recognition of visitors and other subcommittee business, with no specific decisions or proposals detailed.

• Creation of Arts Master Plan
• Recognition of visitors
• Other subcommittee business

Main Street Coordinating Board

The Main Street Board Arts Subcommittee is meeting to discuss the creation of an Arts Master Plan and other subcommittee business. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no specific contracts, dollar amounts, or rezonings listed.

• Creation of Arts Master Plan
• Other subcommittee business

Mayor & Council

The provided document is a meeting agenda rather than minutes of action. It lists proposed topics including utility deposit refunds and Planning & Inspections office locations, but records no decisions, votes, or outcomes.

Finance Committee

The Smyrna Finance Committee is meeting to review the proposed Capital Budget and handle other committee business. The agenda includes call to order, minutes approval, and adjournment, with public participation available via teleconference or Zoom.

• Review of proposed Capital Budget
• Approval of meeting minutes
• Other committee business

Board of Adjustment

The Smyrna Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to consider a variance application from Ayesha and Ryan Jamison for property at 64 Pebble Creek Drive. The meeting also includes standard procedural items like call to order, pledge, and minutes approval.

• Public hearing on variance application 22-114 by Ayesha and Ryan Jamison for 64 Pebble Creek Drive

The Board of Adjustment approved a variance request for Ayesha and Ryan Jamison to construct a 12’ by 16’ covered porch. The approval allows for a 1.1-foot encroachment into the rear yard setback.

• Approved minutes of December 15, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved variance application #22-114 for 1.1-foot rear yard setback encroachment (3-0)

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Mayor and Council will hold a regular meeting with public comment periods. They will discuss and possibly act on the FY21 audit, a senior citizen tax exemption for 2023, setting the date for the April 25 town election, awarding a homeless encampment cleanup bid, and confirming the 2023 PPCAC. The agenda also includes presentations and an executive session for personnel matters.

• Consideration of FY21 Audit
• Senior Citizen Tax Exemption for 2023
• Set time and place for April 25, 2023 Town election
• Award of homeless encampment demo/cleanup bid
• Confirmation of 2023 PPCAC

The Town Council approved the 2023 senior citizen tax exemption and set the date and location for the April 25, 2023 election. Council also awarded a bid for homeless encampment demolition and cleanup and accepted the PPCAC relevelization amount.

• Approved 2023 senior citizen tax exemption to remain the same as last year (unanimous)
• Set April 25, 2023 election at Town Hall from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (unanimous)
• Awarded homeless encampment demo/cleanup bid as recommended by staff (unanimous)
• Accepted the 2023 PPCAC relevelization amount (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including 12/19/22 and 01/03/23 minutes (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation

The Smyrna Parks & Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss several ongoing projects and events, including the Red Sand Project, Veterans Park, Smyrna at Night, and Family Fun Day. The committee will also review subcommittees for the Red Sand Project and Veterans Ceremony, and discuss ORPT Grants. The agenda is subject to change and may include additional items.

• Red Sand Project discussion
• Veterans Park discussion
• Subcommittees for Red Sand Project and Veterans Ceremony
• Smyrna at Night event
• Family Fun Day event

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Smyrna Planning & Zoning Commission is meeting to review and discuss two proposed ordinance amendments: one revising bulk standards for certain zoning districts in the Town Code, and another updating bonding requirements in the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance. The second item may also involve potential action. The agenda includes standard procedural items and public participation via phone or Zoom.

• Review of ordinance amending Appendix A (Zoning) to revise bulk standards for certain zoning districts
• Review, discussion, and potential action on ordinance amending Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance bonding requirements
• Public participation available via phone (1-301-715-8592, Meeting ID 881 1763 2398) or Zoom

The Planning & Zoning Commission approved revisions to bulk standards for residential and commercial zoning districts. The commission also approved updates to the bonding requirements within the Smyrna Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance.

• Approved revised bulk standards for residential and commercial zoning districts (Unanimous)
• Approved updated bonding requirements for the Smyrna Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (Unanimous)

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Mayor and Council will hold its regular meeting, with the main action items being approval of the FY2021 audit and discussion of a FY24 Dover/Kent County MPO project solicitation letter. The agenda also includes routine consent items, public comments, and two executive sessions for legal and personnel matters.

• Approval of FY2021 Audit
• FY24 Dover/Kent County MPO project solicitation letter
• Presentation of FY2021 Audit
• Executive session on pending litigation
• Executive session on personnel matters

Town Council approved the 2023 senior citizen tax exemption and set the date and location for the April 25, 2023 election. The Council also awarded a bid for homeless encampment demolition and cleanup and accepted the PPCAC relevelization amount.

• Approved 2023 senior citizen tax exemption to remain the same as last year (unanimous)
• Set April 25, 2023 Town of Smyrna election at Town Hall from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (unanimous)
• Awarded homeless encampment demo/cleanup bid as recommended by staff (unanimous)
• Accepted the 2023 PPCAC relevelization amount (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes from 12/19/22, 01/03/23, and police report (unanimous)

Mayor & Council

The Smyrna Mayor and Council are holding a special meeting to receive a presentation on the FY21 audit, discuss and possibly act on it, and discuss and possibly act on the FY23 budget. Public participation is available via teleconference or Zoom.

• Presentation of the FY21 Audit
• Discussion and possible action on FY21 Audit
• Discussion and possible action on FY23 budget

The Council approved the consent agenda and a personnel matter discussed in executive session. The FY2021 Audit was deferred to a special meeting on January 11th.

• Approved consent agenda including 12/19/22 minutes and treasury/police reports (unanimous)
• Deferred approval of FY2021 Audit to January 11th special meeting
• Approved personnel matters as discussed in executive session (unanimous)
• No action taken on legal strategy session regarding potential litigation