REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular Council Meeting was held on April 22, 2002 at 7:30 p.m. with Council President McGlumphy presiding. Council members present were Mr. Ritter, Mr. Pitts, Mr. Gorman, Mr. Truitt, Mr. Carey, Mr. Speed, Mr. Salters, and Mr. Ruane.
Council staff members present were Major Harding, Mr. Cooper, Mr. DePrima, Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Petit de Mange, Mrs. Green, and City Solicitor Rodriguez.
OPEN FORUM
The Open Forum was held at 7:15 p.m., prior to commencement of the Official Council Meeting. Council President McGlumphy declared the Open Forum in session and reminded those present that Council is not in official session and cannot take formal action.
Mrs. Fran Savin, 226 N. Governors Avenue, advised members of problems being experienced with Wesley College students who reside on North Governors Avenue. It is her feeling that the City is partially responsible for these problems since they allowed the conversion of single family residential dwellings into multiple occupancy structures. She explained that the noise and disruption in the neighborhood caused by these students is unbearable. Mrs. Savin requested that the City provide residents assistance in resolving these problems.
Mr. John Anetrella, 405 N. Governors Avenue, reiterated the concerns relayed by Mrs. Savin. Although he recently moved to Dover, he is anxious to move away from the area due to these unresolved issues, specifically with 413 and 415 North Governors Avenue. There have been uncontrolled parties at these residences and he expressed his frustration when the police are called and no action is taken by the authorities. Mr. Anetrella felt that the only recourse the residents have to achieve some relief is for these students to be cited for noise ordinance violations. Since these students are here as the result of Wesley College, he felt that the school should be involved and perhaps develop a behavior policy for their students who reside in the community. He advised members that he has contacted officials at Wesley College and, unfortunately, has not obtained any support for assistance in this matter.
Mr. Dick Krueger, 412 N. Governors Avenue, stated that he has lived at this residence for 35 years. Unfortunately, approximately four (4) years ago, Wesley College students brought destruction to this area of Dover. In addition to what was already stated, he advised members that there are several occasions when there are numerous automobiles on Friday and Saturday nights as a result of the parties held by students that reside in the area. He also indicated that there are illegal living accommodations in many of these homes, with individuals sleeping in attics with no fire escapes. It is his feeling that Wesley College is not contributing positively to the community.
Mrs. Terry Rose, 224 N. Governors Avenue, concurred with the statements made by her neighbors and indicated that she, along with many others, are selling their home because the situation has become unbearable.
The invocation was given by Chaplain Dixon, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Carey moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Speed and unanimously carried.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - SPECIAL COUNCIL/KENT MPO MEETING OF MARCH 27, 2002
The Minutes of the Special Council/Kent MPO Meeting of March 27, 2002 were unanimously approved by motion of Mr. Carey, seconded by Mr. Ruane and bore the written approval of Mayor Hutchison.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 8, 2002
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of April 8, 2002 were unanimously approved by motion of Mr. Carey, seconded by Mr. Ruane and bore the written approval of Mayor Hutchison.
PRESENTATION - DOVER HIGH SCHOOL BOYS STATE CHAMPIONS
Mayor Hutchison presented Certificates to each member of the Dover High School Boys Indoor Track State Championship Team, as well as the Girls and Boys Indoor Track All State Performers, as follows:
CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION
Be It Hereby Known to All That
The Mayor and Council Commend
James Solomon, Head CoachTheresa Hudson, Assistant Coach Roger Lilly, Assistant Coach
Aaron Baldwin
Odun Balogun
Deshaun Battle
Eric Blount
Chris Chirillo
Rich Harr
Mike Jackson
Gary Johnson
Reed Jones
Kevin Kimmerle
Zack Lawson
Jason Lilly
James Moore
George Saad
Sam Sackey
Marquette Shaw
Gary Smith
Jason Spangler
Justin Thawley
Brain Wasko
Richard Whorley
Dover High School Boys Indoor Track
State Championship
University of Delaware - March 9, 2002
Jasmine Baldwin
Rose Crippen
Danielle Green
Lashall Green
Odun Balogun
Gary Johnson
Sam Sackey
James Moore
Jason Lilly
Dover High School Girls and Boys Indoor Track
All State Performers
Congratulations and Best Wishes from the City of Dover
April 2002
PROCLAMATION - ARBOR DAY
The City Clerk read the following Proclamation into the record:
WHEREAS, in 1872 J. Sterling Morton proposed that a special day be set aside for the planting of trees and to recognize the importance of trees in our lives and this holiday, called Arbor Day, is now observed throughout the nation and the world; and
WHEREAS, the City of Dover was once again named a Tree City USA in 2001 for the thirteenth consecutive year by the National Arbor Day Foundation, recognizing Dover for its outstanding urban forestry program; and
WHEREAS, trees can reduce the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, reduce heating and cooling costs, moderate the temperature, clean the air, produce oxygen, and provide habitat for wildlife; and
WHEREAS, trees in our City increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, and beautify our community and the community's tree planting program is a living memorial to the citizens' concerns for the quality of life; and
WHEREAS, planting and caring for trees is a very special gift that one generation gives to the next.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, JAMES L. HUTCHISON, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF DOVER, do hereby proclaim April 26, 2002 as ARBOR DAY in the City of Dover, and urge all citizens to support the efforts to plant and care for our public trees along our streets and in our parks.
FURTHER, as the City of Dover plants trees on public property, I urge all citizens to plant trees on private property to enhance the environment and promote the well-being of present and future generations.
Mayor Hutchison presented the Proclamation to Mr. William Cooper, Superintendent of Grounds, in recognition of the outstanding work performed by his department. Mr. Cooper advised members that, in celebration of Arbor Day, the City Grounds Department will be joining toddler storytime at the Dover Public Library on Friday, April 26, 2002 at 10:15 a.m. for a tree planting ceremony and that the public is invited to attend.
PROCLAMATION - DELAWARE SMALL BUSINESS WEEK
The City Clerk read the following Proclamation into the record:
WHEREAS, the history of America is one of a country at work - a country of farmers, manufacturers, and merchants joining together to create a greater society; and
WHEREAS, our growing and thriving nation is built on individual initiative, a competitive character, and intense pride in our achievements; and
WHEREAS, the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce engages in activities to assist small business persons and each year nominates small business persons as examples of the quality of the business persons in Central Delaware; and
WHEREAS, this year, the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce has nominated:
Randy D. Anderson - Dover Pool & Patio Center, Inc.
Victor Giangrant - Westside Brushless Car Wash
Rick S. Hill - Hill Design Group
Monica Kulesa - ESS-Geiger
Charles J. Rogers - Rogers Graphics, Inc.
as outstanding small business persons.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, JAMES L. HUTCHISON, Mayor of the City of Dover, do hereby proclaim the week of May 5 - 11, 2002, as DELAWARE SMALL BUSINESS WEEK in the City of Dover and ask that all in our fine City pay tribute to its small business men and women.
PROCLAMATION - MUNICIPAL CLERK’S WEEK
Council President McGlumphy read the following Proclamation into the record:
WHEREAS, the Office of the Municipal Clerk, a time honored and vital part of local government exists throughout the world; and
WHEREAS, the Office of the Municipal Clerk is the oldest among public servants; and
WHEREAS, the Office of the Municipal Clerk provides the professional link between the citizens, local government bodies and agencies of government at all levels; and
WHEREAS, Municipal Clerks have pledged to be ever mindful of their neutrality and impartiality, rendering equal service to all; and
WHEREAS, the Municipal Clerk serves as the information center on functions of local government and community; and
WHEREAS, Municipal Clerks continually strive to improve the administration of the affairs of the Office of the Municipal Clerk through participation in education programs, seminars, workshops, and the annual meetings of their state, province, county, and international professional organizations; and
WHEREAS, it is most appropriate that we recognize the accomplishments of the Office of Municipal Clerk.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, JAMES L. HUTCHISON, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF DOVER, do hereby proclaim the week of April 28, 2002 through May 4, 2002 as MUNICIPAL CLERK’S WEEK, and further extend appreciation to our Municipal Clerk, Janice C. Green, and to all Municipal Clerks for the vital services they perform and their exemplary dedication to the communities they represent.
The Proclamation was presented to Janice Green, City Clerk, who expressed appreciation for the recognition and for the dedication of her employees and support of the Mayor and City Council.
PUBLIC HEARING - VIOLATION OF THE DANGEROUS BUILDING ORDINANCE - 128 SPRUANCE ROAD, OWNED BY FRANCIS WINSLEY
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider a violation of the Dangerous Building Ordinance at 128 Spruance Road, owned by Francis Winsley. Mr. Petit de Mange stated that the property was declared dangerous on January 4, 2001 and that it has been left vacant and unattended for more than three (3) months. Deterioration of the building is being accelerated by weather and lack of maintenance. There is extensive exterior and interior damage requiring repair. The property consists of a two story townhouse. He indicated that the Susquehanna Bank is listed as an equitable owner.
Mr. Petit de Mange showed slides depicting the condition of the structure. He reminded members that the subject dwelling unit fell into disrepair as a result of a fire that occurred on January 4, 2001. In most instances of this nature, he explained that staff would recommend authorization to proceed with the demolition after due process and final notice to the owner of record. In this instance; however, the subject dwelling unit is an interior unit townhouse which makes demolition an unpractical solution. In lieu of the demolition, staff recommended authorization to have the exterior of the building rehabilitated to minimum code standards. The City would pursue payment from the owner of record for the cost of the necessary improvements. If the owner fails to reimburse the City, then the City would pursue a summary judgement against the property from the courts and seek repayment through Sheriff sale of the property. As an alternative, Mr. Petit de Mange stated that the City could place a lien on the property in an amount equivalent to all costs associated with making the necessary exterior improvements.
Mr. Petit de Mange assured members that the owner of record has been given every courtesy and numerous extensions of time to have the building restored to code compliance. To date, a very limited amount of uncompleted work has been performed. It is felt that the City has exhausted all reasonable efforts to afford the owner the opportunity to have the necessary improvements completed.
Staff recommended that City Council: 1) declare the subject building and property dangerous; 2) order the property repaired by May 6, 2002 by the owner or equitable owner at the sole expense, responsibility and risk of the property owner of record; 3) order the Building Inspector to cause the repair to the exterior of the structure if not completed by the owner or equity owner by May 6, 2002; and 4) order the City Manager, with the assistance of the City Solicitor, to cause the cost of repairs to the exterior of the structure to be charged against the land on which the building exists as a municipal lien or cause such cost to be added to the tax duplicate as an assessment, or to be levied as a special tax against the land upon which the building stands or to be recovered in a suit at law against the owner. Mr. Petit de Mange provided an estimated repair cost of $4,500.00.
Council President McGlumphy declared the public hearing open.
Mrs. Lois Myers, 136 Spruance Road, relayed support for the City bringing the property into code compliance. She also noted that Mr. Winsley was recently released from prison and that he had approached her, threatening her not to attend tonight’s meeting regarding this issue. Mrs. Myers stated that there are other units owned by Mr. Winsley that are in disrepair and causing damage to adjacent properties, one of which she owns.
Council President McGlumphy declared the public hearing closed.
It was noted that a petition signed by residents of Spruance Road was submitted requesting that the City enforce its ordinances for the purpose of continuing to upgrade the neighborhood.
Mr. Carey moved that the structure located at 128 Spruance Road be declared a dangerous building and ordered that the property be repaired, in accordance with the process recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Mr. Truitt and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
RECONSIDERATION OF REZONING - 811 BAY ROAD, OWNED BY BLUE HEN VENTURE
In accordance with Article 10, Section 5.183 of the Zoning Code, if construction has not started or a satisfactory explanation for the failure to commence construction has not been received within one year from the effective date of the amendment to the zoning map, an amendment to rezone the land to its prior classification shall be automatically placed on the agenda to be reconsidered by City Council. Mr. Petit de Mange reminded members that during their Regular Meeting of April 10, 2000, City Council approved the rezoning of property located at 811 Bay Road from C-4 (Highway Commercial) to SC-3 (Regional Shopping Center). At the time of the rezoning, the property was owned by Delaware Industrial Enterprises, Inc. The property is currently owned by Blue Hen Venture. He also indicated that a rezoning extension was granted by members of Council during their Regular Meeting of April 23, 2001.
On behalf of the property owners, Mr. Gregory Moore, Principal of Becker Morgan Group, submitted a letter requesting an extension to the SC-3 zoning classification. He explained that during the past year, the owners have been executing an agreement with the American Legion to enable that parcel to be incorporated into the proposed project. In addition, the traffic study has been completed and comments from DelDOT have been obtained. He also noted that they are in the process of securing tenants for the site.
Staff recommended approval of the extension of the rezoning for property located at 811 Bay Road for an additional year.
Responding to concerns of Mr. Salters, Mr. Petit de Mange indicated that there has been a substantial amount of capital spent for the development of this property, which indicates that progress is being made and he felt confident that there is a true commitment to this project.
Noting that Mr. Jeff Harmon of Becker Morgan Group, Inc. was present, Mr. Speed moved to waive the rules to allow Mr. Harmon to address members of Council, seconded by Mr. Carey and unanimously carried.
In response to Mr. Salters, Mr. Harmon explained that Becker Morgan Group is assisting Blue Hen Venture, LLC in attempting to attain permission from DelDOT for the access needed off of Route #13. DelDOT initially requested that a traffic impact study be performed and that since its completion, DelDOT has requested additional information. During the last year additional calculations, studies, and reports have been completed for submission to DelDOT for their review and consideration.
Mr. Salters moved to table the matter to allow the developers the opportunity to address members of Council regarding concerns of this project. The motion failed for the lack of a second.
Mr. Speed moved for approval of the extension of the rezoning for property located at 811 Bay Road for an additional year. The motion was seconded by Mr. Pitts and carried by a roll call vote of eight (8) yes, and one (1) no (Mr. Salters).
UTILITY COMMITTEE REPORT
The Utility Committee met on April 8, 2002 with Chairman Ruane presiding.
Presentation - Environmental Improvements to McKee Run
Mr. Dean Blaha of Duke Power presented members with information regarding the City of Dover McKee Run Generating Plant and the Clean Air Act. In 1985, there were approximately 23 million tons of SO2 and 19 million tons of NOx emitted annually from all sources, of which, 16 million tons of SO2 and 7 million tons of NOx were emitted by electric utilities. Mr. Blaha stated that in 1995, Phase I of the Acid Rain Program established a cap of 9 million tons of SO2 and the 100 highest emitting utility plants had to immediately reduce their emissions. In 2000, Phase II required all other units to reduce SO2 emissions. He explained that the Acid Rain Program established a National Cap and Trade Program which assigned a certain number of allowances for all units and required all units to reduce emissions to below those allowances or buy from others.
Mr. Blaha explained that in October 1998, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized the “Finding of Significant Contribution and Rulemaking for Certain States in the Ozone Transport Assessment Group Region for Purposes of Reducing Regional Transport of Ozone”, which is commonly referred to as the NOx SIP Call. In May 1999, the EPA established the Federal NOx Budget Trading Program to place a cap on NOx emissions, similar to the Acid Rain Program for SO2. In Delaware, the NOx SIP Call sets a statewide NOx emissions budget of 22,861 tons over the five-month summer control period from May 1st through September 30th. Mr. Blaha advised members that the emissions budget for Dover is 198 tons and he provided a graph depicting the City’s actual tonnage versus allowances. In reviewing the graph, he noted that the actual NOx versus future allowance would have exceeded allowance during the past five (5) years. He also noted that there was an average excess of 65 tons, a maximum excess of 135 tons (1998), and that there is a need to reduce NOx by an average of 25% and NOx by a maximum of 40% (1998).
Mr. Blaha stated that the technology (pre-combustion) available to reduce NOx emissions consist of improved instrumentation, low NOx burners, dampers and drives, overfire air ducts, and flue gas recirculation. These technologies would reduced NOx by 20% to 50% and cost approximately $2 to $4 million. The technology (post-combustion) available, SNCR and SCR, would reduce NOx by 40% to 98% and cost approximately $20 to $75 million.
Mr. Blaha stated that Phase II of the Acid Rain Program should be available in the very near future and should provide a more accurate cost estimate. The estimated amount of $2 to $4 million was determined as a result of Phase I of the program and, as a result, $4 million has been budgeted for this project.
No further action was taken by members.
For clarification, Mr. Speed stated that the City is currently in compliance and that this project will enable the City to remain in compliance with the Clean Air Act.
Mr. Ruane moved for acceptance of the Utility Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Speed and unanimously carried.
LEGISLATIVE AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT
The Legislative and Finance Committee met on April 9, 2002 with Chairman Gorman presiding.
Proposed Amendments to Article IX, Section 2 of the City Employee Handbook - Prescription Coverage and Health Care Coverage
During their meeting of March 13, 2002, the Civilian and Police Pension Boards recommended that Article IX, Section 2 of the City of Dover Employee Handbook be amended, as follows:
Section 2. Retirement Benefits
The City shall make available to permanent full-time employees and permanent part-time employees working at least 30 hours per week the option of joining a City Pension Plan. Pension benefits shall be provided through one of the following:
(a) Police Pension Plan (Refer to Appendix H)
(b) General Employee Pension Plan (Refer to Appendix I)
The City, in consultation with the City Pension Boards, shall provide group hospital, surgical and health insurance coverage, including prescription drugs for retired employees and their families. The City pays 100% of each retiree’s individual coverage and 75% of the cost of dependent coverage. This applies to all retirees, unless otherwise specified in labor agreements.
Mr. Ruane felt that the wording should remain in broad terms, as currently written, explaining that what is included in a group surgical, hospital, and health insurance coverage can change. These benefit coverages periodically change for several reasons and he suggested that the wording remain to allow for flexibility, which could allow for additional benefits such as mental health care. He also noted that there are several options available for an employee when choosing their health care coverage; some employees could choose a plan which has more benefits than another employee may choose. He reiterated that it is the plan itself, not the Handbook, that determines what an employee’s benefits consist of and recommended that the Handbook not include specifics for health care coverages.
The committee recommended approval of the proposed amendments to the Handbook, as presented by the Pension Boards, with the exception of the last paragraph to be amended to read as follows: “The City shall provide group hospital, surgical and health insurance coverage for retired employees and their families. The City pays 100% of each retiree’s individual coverage and 75% of the cost of dependent coverage. This applies to all retirees, unless otherwise specified in labor agreements”.
Mr. Gorman moved for approval of the committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Ruane and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Cost of Living Adjustment - Civilian Retirees
During the March 13, 2002 Civilian Pension Board Meeting, members recommended approval of a two percent (2%) cost of living adjustment (COLA) to become effective July 2, 2002 for all civilian retirees, with consideration of an automatic annual increase upon completion of the Actuarial Study.
Mr. DePrima noted that although the 2% COLA will be paid for from the pension plan, it will affect the City’s budget in terms of unfunded liability in the future, which is why the Finance Director/Treasurer requested an understanding that this recommendation is for a one-time 2% COLA and that there be no permanent, structured annual increases implemented until staff has had the opportunity to review the Actuarial Study.
The committee recommended approval of the Civilian Pension Board’s recommendation.
Mr. Gorman moved for approval of a two percent (2%) cost of living adjustment (COLA) to become effective July 2, 2002 for all civilian retirees, with consideration of an automatic annual increase upon completion of the Actuarial Study, as recommended by the committee. The motion was seconded by Mr. Carey and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Community Development Block Grant - FY 2002/2003 Recommended Action Plan and Proposed Resolution
Members were provided with a proposed Resolution for the approval of the Community Development Block Grant 2002 Action Plan. The Action Plan includes the City’s request for $302,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Entitlement and is a required HUD document that establishes a one year strategy for the CDBG program. The goals established by the proposed plan are as follows, in order of priority:
1) Home ownership opportunities throughout the community, especially within low and moderate income neighborhoods;
2) Preserve the existing housing stock in the City of Dover;
3) Provide decent and safe neighborhoods;
4) Increase the livability of our neighborhoods; and
5) Expand economic opportunities.
The Community Block Grant Advisory Committee reviewed proposals for funding and recommended the following activities to be funded for fiscal year 2002:
Dover Police Department Community Policing $22,000
NCALL Home Ownership Counseling 10,000
Program Administration 60,400
Fair Housing Counseling 600
Homeowner Rehabilitation Assistance Program 50,000
Dover First Start Assistance Program 49,000
Strategic Economic Development Fund 35,000
Move-In Move-Up Small Business Loan Program 45,000
Public Housing Safety Improvement Suitable Living
Environment (Dover Housing Authority) -0-
Microenterprise Assistance Program (Main Street Dover, Inc.) 30,000
TOTAL $302,000
Mr. Petit de Mange stated that the programs and funding levels have been reviewed by the Community Development Block Grant Advisory Committee and it is felt that the recommended funding levels reflect a realistic and well-balanced approach to achieving the goals and objectives of the City of Dover 2000-2004 Consolidated Plan. He explained that the committee denied the funding request, in the amount of $127,300, for the Dover Housing Authority because they were awarded an allocation in the amount of $35,000 in the 2000 Program Year for a project at Queens Manor Senior Housing Center that has not been used to date. The committee noted that it encourages Dover Housing Authority to utilize its previously allocated funds and to seek future funding for this project next year.
After much discussion, it was suggested that the recommended funding for the microenterprise program be transferred to the strategic economic development fund. Responding, Mr. DePrima explained that the strategic economic development fund provides loan funds to assist in repairing buildings and that the microenterprise program attempts to assist the people in those buildings.
During the committee meeting, Mr. Ruane relayed concern that since the purpose of the CDBG program is to serve low to moderate income people, he is not confident that the recommended action plan pursues those goals.
The committee recommended approval of the FY2002 CDBG Action Plan in the amount of $302,000 and adoption of the proposed Resolution, as recommended by staff.
For clarification, Mr. Ruane explained that his skepticism relayed during the committee meeting concerned only the item regarding microenterprise assistant program which would, in effect, provide salary supplement to the Main Street Program. He advised members that he has met with representatives of Main Street and feels confident that the requirements for the program to benefit low and moderate income people will be met.
By motion of Mr. Gorman, seconded by Mr. Salters, Council approved the committee’s recommendation and adopted the following Resolution by a unanimous roll call vote:
WHEREAS, the City of Dover is entitled to $302,000 through the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant program; and
WHEREAS, the City of Dover has prepared the 2002 Community Development Block Grant Action Plan, in accordance with United States Department of Housing and Urban Development guidelines, that serves as the primary planning document for identifying and meeting the housing and community development needs for the low and moderate-income residents of Dover; and
WHEREAS, the City of Dover is in favor of utilizing the Community Development Block Grant funds for community development purposes in accordance with the National Community Development objectives of benefitting low and moderate income families, eliminating slums and blight, and meeting other community development objectives; and
WHEREAS, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development required the City of Dover to submit a Consolidated Plan and an Action Plan for Application for Federal Assistance including the proposed use of funds and including certain certifications and policies to obtain its $302,000 entitlement; and
WHEREAS, the City of Dover has prepared the attached Application for Federal Assistance, and presented it at an advertised public hearing held on April 2, 2002.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER approve the 2002 Community Development Block Grant Action Plan and application for Federal Assistance included in the Action Plan, along with certifications and policies attached, and authorize its forwarding to the United States Department of Urban Development for consideration.
ADOPTED: APRIL 22, 2002
Mr. Gorman moved for acceptance of the Legislative and Finance Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Speed and unanimously carried.
ELECTION RESULTS - 2002 MUNICIPAL ELECTION
The City Clerk reported the following results for the 2002 Municipal Election as certified by the Election Judges:
First District Second District
John A. Costello 159 William P. McGlumphy 283
Timothy P. Mullaney, Sr. 268 Charles A. Weller 210
Beverly C. Williams 409
Total District Votes 836 Total District Votes 493
Total Registered Voters 6,945 Total Registered Voters 3,627
In accordance with Title 15 Del.C. §7502, when there is only one official candidate for each office, the official candidate may assume office without the holding of a formal election. Therefore, since the Mayoral, Third District, and Fourth District positions were unopposed, the following will be sworn into office for two (2) year terms:
Mayor - James L. Hutchison
Third District - William P. Truitt
Fourth District - John W. Pitts
Mr. Salters moved for acceptance of the 2002 Municipal Election Results as reported by the City Clerk, seconded by Mr. Carey and unanimously carried.
SETTING OF PROPERTY ASSESSMENT APPEALS AND APPOINTMENT OF ASSESSMENT APPEALS COMMITTEE
The City Assessor, Mr. Cooper, requested that the property assessment appeals be held from June 3, 2002 through June 7, 2002 between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon.
Council President McGlumphy requested that Councilmen Carey (Chairman), Salters, and Speed serve on the Property Assessment Appeals Committee.
Mr. Speed moved for approval of the above recommendations, seconded by Mr. Salters and unanimously carried.
CITY MANGER’S SEMI-ANNUAL INSPECTION - ROBBINS HOSE COMPANY
In accordance with Section 7-18 of the Dover Code, the City Manager performed the semi-annual inspection of the Robbins Hose Company. Mr. DePrima reported that the equipment and facilities of Robbins Hose Company are maintained in excellent condition. After meeting with the Fire Chief, he noted the following points:
►Volunteer response rate remains strong to fire calls. The average turnout for a general alarm is 33 firefighters.
►Training activity has been high; they have done more training during controlled burns than usual. There are four firefighters in driver training. Two officers and 5 firefighters went to Indiana for confined space training. Eight (8) new members are attending basic firefighter training.
►Fire calls have increased by 44 compared to this time last year. The number of year-to-date calls is 276.
►The Hose Tender has been taken out of service. Due to a change in tactics, it will not be replaced. It is a 1975 vehicle, and bids will be taken for its sale.
►Dispatch operations are normal. The new policy on trading shifts is being implemented. They are also looking at changing the design of the dispatch desks.
►Headquarters will be open to the public for Old Dover Days. This is a new activity for the Company.
►A committee has been formed to make recommendations and renovations to the 1948 portion of the fire house.
►Chief Bashista met with a representative of Public Administration Service (PAS) to discuss operations.
Mr. Ruane noted that during the recent “employee appreciation day”, the volunteers of the Robbins Hose Company are not included and that there is no other day set aside as a day of recognition for the fire department. He suggested that members of Council consider recognizing the Robbins Hose Company Volunteer Fire Fighters in October of each year. It was his understanding that in October of this year, Robbins Hose Company will be celebrating its 120th Anniversary.
Mr. Ruane moved for the establishment of an Annual Special Recognition Day, to be held in October, for Volunteer Fire Fighters, seconded by Mr. Ritter.
Responding to Council President McGlumphy, Mr. Carey stated that the Robbins Hose Company was organized on November 13, 1882.
Mr. Ruane moved to amend the motion by striking “October” and inserting in lieu thereof “November”. The motion failed due to the lack of a second.
After discussing the matter further, Mr. Ruane moved to modify the motion by requesting that staff organize an annual recognition day for our volunteer fire fighters on a date to be announced in the future, seconded by Mr. Speed and unanimously carried.
Mr. Speed moved for acceptance of the City Manager’s report on the semi-annual inspection of the Robbins Hose Company, seconded by Mr. Salters and unanimously carried.
MONTHLY REPORTS - MARCH 2002
By motion of Mr. Salters, seconded by Mr. Speed, the following monthly reports were accepted by consent agenda:
Budget Report
Chief of Police Report
City Assessor Report
City Clerk/Alderman Report (Fines)
City Manager's Report
Mayor's Report
Planning and Inspections Report
CORRESPONDENCE - GREYHOUND LINES, INC. - WITHDRAWAL OF PROPOSAL TO RELOCATE TERMINAL TO THE DART WATER STREET LOT
The City Clerk read the following letter into the record:
“April 18, 2002l
The Honorable James L. Hutchison
Mayor of the City of Dover
P.O. Box 475
Dover, DE 19903
RE: Greyhound Terminal - Dover, Delaware
Dear Mayor Hutchison:
Your recent phone call concerning the proposed Greyhound relocation was very informative and helpful. At this time Greyhound has decided to withdraw it’s proposal to relocate to the DART Water St. lot.
We plan to seek alternative locations and we will continue to work closely with the City of Dover and DART to find a location that best serves the community.
Thank you for your assistance in this matter. Should you have any questions or concerns, please call me at (214) 849-8200.
Sincerely,
Michael J. Doran
Assistant Director, Real Estate”
Mr. Ruane stated that several conversations have been held with representatives of Greyhound and that they would welcome suggestions regarding an appropriate location.
Mr. Carey moved to accept the letter received from Greyhound Lines, Inc., seconded by Mr. Speed and unanimously carried.
REZONING REQUEST/FIRST READING - 575 W. NORTH STREET, 26 SLAUGHTER STREET, 508 W. LOOCKERMAN STREET, AND 502-504 W. LOOCKERMAN STREET
A request was received to rezone property located at 575 W. North Street, owned by Robert M. Duncan; 26 Slaughter Street, owned by Klein Development Corporation; 508 W. Loockerman Street, owned by Frank J. And Belinda A. Shivick; and 502-504 W. Loockerman Street, owned by Robert M. Duncan. The properties are currently zoned C-3 (Service Commercial) and the requested zoning is I/O (Institutional and Office).
Prior to amending the zoning ordinances and zoning map of the City of Dover, a public hearing is required.
By motion of Mr. Salters, seconded by Mr. Speed, Council unanimously referred the request to the Planning Commission and set a public hearing for June 10, 2002 at 7:30 p.m. The first reading of the following proposed ordinance was accomplished by title only:
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF DOVER BY CHANGING THE ZONING DESIGNATION OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT 575 W. NORTH STREET, 26 SLAUGHTER STREET, 508 W. LOOCKERMAN STREET, AND 502-504 W. LOOCKERMAN STREET.
Mr. Speed moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Truitt and unanimously carried