ANNUAL COUNCIL MEETING
The Annual Council Meeting was held on May 8, 2000 at 7:30 p.m. with Mayor Hutchison presiding. Council members present were Council President Christiansen, Mr. Lambert, Mr. Pitts, Mr. Leary, Mr. Truitt, Mr. Carey, Mrs. Malone, Mr. Salters, and Mr. Weller.
Council staff members present were Chief Faulkner, Mr. Cooper, Mr. O'Connor, Mr. DePrima, Mrs. Green, and Mr. Rodriguez. Chief Carey was absent.
OPEN FORUM
The Open Forum was held at 7:15 p.m., prior to commencement of the Official Council Meeting. Mayor Hutchison declared the Open Forum in session and reminded those present that Council is not in official session and cannot take formal action.
There was no one present wishing to speak during the Open Forum.
The invocation was given by Councilman Reuben Salters, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Salters requested the addition of item #6-E, Purchase of Police Vehicles. Mr. Weller moved for approval of the agenda, as amended, seconded by Mr. Leary and unanimously carried.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 24, 2000
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of April 24, 2000 were unanimously approved by motion of Mr. Leary, seconded by Mr. Salters and bore the written approval of Mayor Hutchison.
OATHS OF OFFICE - CITY COUNCIL
The Honorable Henry DuPont Ridgely, President Judge of the Superior Court, administered the Oath of Office to the Mayor and members of City Council, as follows:
Mayor - James L. Hutchison
First District - Bruce T. Gorman
Second District - William P. McGlumphy
Third District - William P. Truitt
Fourth District - John W. Pitts
RESOLUTION - ROBERT W. LAMBERT
The City Clerk read the following Resolution into the record:
WHEREAS, Robert W. Lambert was appointed to serve as a civilian member of the City’s Election Board from its inception, November 12, 1990, until resigning when elected as Councilman of the Second District of the City of Dover - a position he served with distinction from October 15, 1991 through May 8, 2000; and
WHEREAS, during this term in office, Robert W. Lambert served as a member and chairman of the Utility Committee and Communications Committee, and member of the Parks and Recreation Committee, Safety Advisory Committee, City/County Liaison Committee, Downtown Dover Development Corporation, and Code Board of Appeals; and
WHEREAS, Robert W. Lambert was instrumental in the City’s partnership with Duke Louis Dreyfus for management of the City of Dover’s Power Plant, which has proven to be successful and beneficial for both the citizens and employees, and has continuously provided his expertise and civic awareness to guide the unprecedented growth and expansion of utilities for the City of Dover and, likewise, shared his valuable experience on this and many other issues regarding utilities through his membership with the American Public Power Association; and
WHEREAS, Robert W. Lambert kept abreast of all issues that concerned the community, maintaining personal contact with citizens throughout the City, and the hundreds of hours he unselfishly gave has contributed greatly to the betterment of the City and its residents; and
WHEREAS, Robert W. Lambert has decided not to seek re-election to Council for his term expiring May 8, 2000.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and Council recognize that Robert W. Lambert will be sorely missed and express their sincere appreciation to him and his family for the many dedicated years of service and personal sacrifices made on behalf of the City of Dover.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and Council wish Councilman Lambert and his family success in all future endeavors and direct the City Clerk to make this resolution a part of the permanent records of the City of Dover as a lasting symbol of appreciation and gratitude to Robert W. Lambert.
ADOPTED: May 8, 2000
Council President Christiansen moved for adoption of the Resolution, seconded by Mr. Carey and unanimously carried.
Mayor Hutchison and members of Council presented Councilman Lambert with the Resolution, a Dover Cup, and a Key to the City. Mr. Lambert thanked his fellow members of Council and staff for the assistance given him during his term on Council.
RESOLUTION - THOMAS J. LEARY
The City Clerk read the following Resolution into the record:
WHEREAS, Thomas J. Leary served as a civilian member of the Legislative and Finance Committee for the City of Dover from May 29, 1990 to May 11, 1992, and was sworn into office as Councilman of the First District of the City of Dover - a position he served with distinction from May 11, 1992 through May 8, 2000; and
WHEREAS, during his term in office, Thomas J. Leary served as a member and chairman of the Police and Civilian Pension Boards, and a member of the Legislative and Finance Committee, Safety Advisory Committee, Downtown Dover Development Corporation, City/County Liaison Committee, and the Chamber of Commerce and Greater Dover Committee; and
WHEREAS, throughout his tenure, Thomas J. Leary displayed a professional approach to his duties and a quality of leadership that fostered the respect of his colleagues and contributed greatly to the sound financial position of the City by contributing his financial expertise, of which the City will continue to reap immeasurable benefits in the future and, likewise, this influence continued through his deep involvement in the Delaware League of Local Governments and as a member of the Steering Committee of the National League of Cities’ Finance and Intergovernmental Relations Committee; and
WHEREAS, Thomas J. Leary served with a commitment to strive for the betterment of the community and welfare of its citizens and the hundreds of hours he unselfishly gave has contributed greatly to the betterment of the City and its residents; and
WHEREAS, Thomas J. Leary has decided not to seek re-election to Council for his term expiring May 8, 2000.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and Council recognize that Thomas J. Leary will be sorely missed and express their sincere appreciation to him and his family for the many dedicated years of service and personal sacrifices made on behalf of City of Dover.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and Council wish Councilman Leary and his family success in all future endeavors and direct the City Clerk to make this resolution a part of the permanent records of the City of Dover as a lasting symbol of appreciation and gratitude to Thomas J. Leary.
ADOPTED: May 8, 2000
Mr. Pitts moved for adoption of the Resolution, seconded by Mr. Salters and unanimously carried.
Mayor Hutchison and members of Council presented Councilman Leary with the Resolution, a Dover Cup, and a Key to the City. Mr. Leary thanked his fellow members of Council and staff for their assistance during his term on Council. He also commended City of Dover employees for their outstanding performance.
RECESS
A short recess was declared for photographs of the Mayor and members of City Council.
STATE OF THE CITY MESSAGE - MAYOR JAMES L. HUTCHISON
Mayor James L. Hutchison offered the following State of the City Message:
“INTRODUCTION
This past year, the City of Dover set a new record of $71 million in new construction permits. This represents a two percent increase over last year. The City continues to see strong economic growth. This has ultimately placed a greater burden on the infrastructure. Due to the leadership of our City Manager, the support of City Council, and the dedication of staff, we have been able to meet the demand. We continue to be most proud of the quality of life we have and how beautiful and clean this city is.
I am indeed very happy to say we have not had a property tax increase since I was first elected Mayor in 1994.
This past year, major efforts have been put forth to build an even stronger, better working relationship with the business community in our city and Kent County. Two meetings have been held with representatives of our largest employers and colleges/universities. The purpose of these meetings, which will be held three to four times per year, is to build a better and stronger work base and provide for better working conditions in the future for all concerned.
Computerization of our operations in all City departments continued, which has allowed for greater workflow, better information processing, greater efficiency and the ability to be more responsive.
Positive changes also took place within the Dover Police Department. The Cadet Program was reinstated. Civilian personnel were placed in management positions, which allowed police to be placed back on the street. Another major highlight of the Police Department, due to the hard work and good relationships among its membership, is its award of national accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA®).
I am very proud of the accomplishments over the past year made by all departments and am happy to provide this report to the Dover citizenry.
FINANCE
The Finance Department continues to administer the internal controls and continues to fine-tune them for more and more effective financial management. The City’s audit reports are coming out clean. On the investments side, the diversification of investments is working out fine and the safety of our money is kept as the number one objective.
The tower leasing activity has benefitted the City and has provided choices to our citizens for telecommunications. The Department continues to monitor this activity.
The Finance Department also continues to receive the national award for its annual financial report and this year has also published the Citizens’ Report to reach out to the citizens and customers. We are confident that we will receive a national award for this report.
The Finance Department will face a major challenge in the next three years when complex reporting standards become effective. The Department has already started working on this major project, and we feel confident that we will incorporate all the required financial reporting changes very effectively.
POLICE
During 1999, the Dover City Police Department continued its move forward in the area of technology. A new Computer Aided Dispatch and Records Management System were brought online. These advancements have placed this agency at the forefront of technology by providing timely management information, as well as enhancing our ability to meet the needs of the public.
A final phase of the original technology initiative, which we began in 1999 and hope to complete in 2000, is the mobile data terminal phase. We have begun the process of placing computer terminals in police vehicles. This will, in part, provide the officer with direct access to data and allow the officer to submit police reports electronically. This project is scheduled for completion in 2000.
During 1999, this agency continued its reorganization by placing civilian personnel in key management positions in lieu of police officers. This resulted in placing additional police officers on the street and created better continuity within those positions.
This past year also reflects a number of other new initiatives by the Dover Police Department. A program first tested in the City of Wilmington and now in Dover is “Operation Safe Streets.” This partnership with the Department of Corrections places Dover police officers on our streets with officers from Probation and Parole. This relationship helps to ensure that those on probation are in compliance with the terms of that probation.
Our first Summer Youth Program was held during the summer of 1999. This program shows promise of continued success as we partner with other communities to provide a unique opportunity for our youths. Students from five school districts participated in last year’s program. The program will continue this year as we look at ways to increase participation and improve the program.
One new program we adopted from a nationwide concept was that of “Prom Promise.” In 1999 we partnered with the YMCA to host an after-prom party. Our students are provided a safe place to go following their prom. Food, non-alcoholic drinks and entertainment are provided at no cost to the student. Last year we hosted approximately 248 students. This year we expect the attendance to increase as we co-host this event with the Dover Mall. It appears that this program is growing in support, and we look forward to hosting it in the future.
Also during 1999, the Cadet Program was revived after being dormant for about 20 years. These cadets have increased this agency’s presence in our downtown area and have been well received. Through their presence, we have been able to reallocate officers’ time to other priorities while meeting the needs of our citizens and the business community.
I am also pleased to announce that on March 25, 2000, the Dover Police Department was awarded national accreditation. Considerable work was completed during 1999 to achieve this long-awaited goal. The work of the accreditation team, officers and civilian staff was instrumental in this accomplishment. A priority for 2000 is to ensure that this agency continues to meet the requirements and mandates of accreditation in preparation for re-accreditation in the year 2003. Accreditation is an ongoing process and must be made a priority each year.
As a final note, although the calls for service continue to increase--up 3.8 percent in 1999 over 1998--violent crime in the City decreased by approximately 11.2 percent. There was a total decrease in crime in 1999 of 7.2 percent. Emphasis must continue to be placed in community involvement and prevention initiatives.
INSPECTIONS AND PLANNING
The planning and construction activities indicate that the local economy is still strong. The Planning Commission approved the following estimated square footage of projects in 1999:
Office - 99,468 S.F.
Commercial - 244,365 S.F.
Industrial - 1,200 S.F.
Public/Institutional - 185,233 S.F.
Hospitality - 499,375 S.F.
Total - 1,029,641 S.F.
This was a record year for the 1990’s--seven percent higher than 1998. This was the second record year in a row. For a community the size of Dover, these numbers indicate that growth is still strong. It should be pointed out that the proposed Dover Downs Hotel and Slots Addition, which accounted for almost one-half of the square feet approved, heavily influenced this record.
Another indication of strong growth is the value of construction activity reported on building permits and number of construction inspections. In 1999, the value reported on construction permits was $71.2 million dollars. This was two (2) percent greater than the 1998 value; and again it is a record for the 1990’s, and the second year in a row as a record.
Some notable projects approved in 1999 are as follows:
♦ Dover Downs Hotel - 455,000 S.F.
♦ Dover Downs Enclosed Grandstand Renovation and Video Lottery Addition – 45,000 S.F.
♦ Delaware Transit Center - 58,000 S.F.
♦ Delaware State University Administration Building - 75,000 S.F.
♦ Woodbrook Professional Office Park - 31,000 S.F.
ELECTRIC
A new Electric Engineer was employed mid-year to enhance the engineering capabilities of the Department. This has allowed us to move forward on a number of different projects.
In 1999, the Fiber Optic Communications Project moved very rapidly. The Electric Administration building, Warehouse, Library, Fire Station #1, several substations and Information Services (Weyandt Hall) have had fiber cable installed. Fiber has also been installed from the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) to several offices in other buildings and to the Office of Information Services (OIS) at the Silver Lake complex. Fiber was also installed from the Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO) to the OIS. A Request for Proposals to design and build a fiber optic ring around the City using a 96 fiber cable following the 69 KV transmission line with taps at substations and City buildings was prepared. Construction standards were developed for fiber optic assemblies.
The development of construction standards for all electric transmission and distribution lines began. A policy regarding developer fees was prepared. This policy will require developers to participate in the cost of installing new electric services which will increase City revenues and reduce workload on the line crews.
The re-build of the Dover Air Forces Base substation was completed as well as Rodney Village wire replacement and replacement of old underground cable at a number of locations to include the Dover Mall, Denneys Road and the Blue Hen Corporate Center and Mall. Two State projects on Route 1 and Dover Air Force Base were also completed.
Planning began to upgrade the Electric Dispatch Center to a Systems Operations Center to include the physical plant, computer systems and System Operator’s job description.
In 2000 we will continue to replace older deteriorating underground services at selected locations on the 12 KV system to help reduce outages. Selected distribution reclosers and 69 KV breakers will be evaluated and replaced as part of an ongoing plan to improve system reliability.
The fiber optic loop will be completed and the electronics installed to allow us to upgrade the City’s communications from copper wire to a fiber optic system. The Dispatch Center will be temporarily relocated in order to re-work the control room to create a new System Operations Center and install new computers. The new System Operations Center will more closely monitor and operate the electric system to further increase reliability.
Selected street lighting and traffic signals will be upgraded to increase public safety.
The availability and reliability of all Dover generating units was successfully maintained throughout the crushing heat wave of 1999. While regional problems existed from some of the neighboring utilities, all units under Duke Energy’s control in Dover were generating with little or no problems.
Extensive research, evaluation, and testing went into preparations for the year 2000 rollover. The payback for all this hard work resulted in an event-free New Year’s Eve and first day of the New Year. All issues went according to plans, and no Y2K-related incidents were experienced. In the same fashion, Leap Year rollover was completely normal, thus ending any concerns related to Y2K readiness.
Interconnection Agreement negotiations with Conectiv were completed, providing a mutually satisfying platform for continued business relationships. New agreements went into effect February 1.
The coming year contains several projects and activities that will continue to improve our operation. Our plan includes the following:
♦ Work Safely – First and foremost is to operate safely. Duke Fluor Daniel (D/FD) will be having its second year accident-free anniversary in July of 2000. This illustrates Duke’s commitment to maintaining a safe work environment for all its employees, vendors and visitors.
♦ Manage Market Conditions – The coming year promises even more changes in the energy market--from deregulation to wheeling of energy. The Duke Energy team is focused on working through those changes and bringing value to its partnership with the City of Dover.
♦ City of Dover Energy Needs – With ongoing growth in the City of Dover and the surrounding area, Duke Energy will be making sure there is enough energy to supply that growth. Other skills and services will be brought to the City in support of other areas in the Electric Department.
♦ Plans will be finalized this year for the first full turbine inspection on Unit #3 since D/FD took over the operations in 1996. This will be the largest single project undertaken by this administration so far and will likely include major upgrades on the Unit #3 boiler as well as the turbine-generator.
♦ Community Involvement – The D/FD Operating Services team will continue its focus on community involvement through its relationship with the United Way and other projects throughout the year. Over 96 percent of its staff were involved in some kind of activity during the past year, including 100 percent employee participation in our 1999 United Way campaign.
PUBLIC WORKS
Over the past year, the Department of Public Works completed several water system improvements including the Clara Street Water Main Interconnection and the Heatherfield East/Mallard Pond Water Interconnection. In March, work began on the South State Street Water Main Upgrade between Water Street and Wyoming Avenue. Each of these improvements will enhance flow distribution in the City’s pipe network, as well as improve fire protection.
Approximately $500,000 dollars worth of street work was completed in the Street Construction and Repair Program. This work included seven (7) streets and eight (8) alleys. In addition, there were a number of sidewalk interconnection projects completed in subdivisions throughout the City. In the upcoming year, it is estimated that the City will spend approximately $750,000 on street-related improvement projects.
Davis, Bowen & Friedel and City staff have completed the technical documents associated with the 1999 Wastewater Master Plan Update and are currently working on the narrative documents for the completion of the Master Plan. The Master Plan identified a number of improvements to be made to the sanitary sewer system. The improvement plan will be integrated into the Capital Investments Plan and the budget in the upcoming fiscal years. The major projects include several pumping station upgrades and force main rerouting to reposition flows in the City system to meet development demands.
The Department of Public Works is currently seeking to expand our water supply and production assets by proposing to drill two (2) new Cheswold aquifer wells with an estimated production capacity of 800 gallons per minute of additional supply. The additional resources will enhance our ability to deliver water to all current and future customers. Over the next twelve (12) months, the State of Delaware Department of Public Health will be issuing a Notice to Proceed with fluoridation upgrades on the water system.
INFORMATION SERVICES
The amount of memory and disk storage on the AS/400 was increased to maintain quick response for customer inquiries and to maintain more historical data. Numerous custom programs were written and implemented to support special needs of nearly all departments.
External fiber optic cable has been installed to build one high-speed data network across key City of Dover municipal buildings. One high-speed phone line, T1, has been installed to link the City of Dover data network to the Internet.
Microsoft Outlook 98 was implemented as the standard personal information management software on each City PC. In conjunction with a Microsoft Exchange Server which was also implemented this year, this software provides employees a common interface for e-mail (Internet and internal), calendar/schedule sharing, contact management, and rudimentary project management. Information Services provided customized Outlook 98 training for all employees with PC access.
Internet Explorer Version 5 was implemented as the standard Internet browsing software on each City PC. At the heart of our Internet access technology is an Internet Proxy Server with Web-filtering software. This significantly reduces employee exposure to unlawful or unethical Web sites while at the same time minimizing our exposure to outside computer hackers. To reduce exposure to another type of electronic invader, virus protection software has been installed and is kept current on each City PC.
As a result of all the planning, work, and coordination efforts that were invested into the Y2K situation, Y2K became a non-event.
Accomplishments specific to the Information Services Department are:
♦ Worked with Administrative Services to (a) select and implement an online customer credit checking system and (b) implement upgraded hand-held meter reading equipment and data interface.
♦ Worked with Parks and Recreation to (a) implement new software for activity registration, league scheduling, and facility reservations.
♦ Worked with Public Works to (a) develop and implement software for tracking customer trash cans; (b) develop and implement software for tracking trash truck usage and landfill billing; (c) develop and implement software for monthly reporting.
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
Administrative Services received a face-lift during this fiscal year. Major renovations occurred in the customer service/cashier area. Since automating the utility billing/customer service system, servicing customers is centered around a representative’s computer where customer information is located. The renovations place the representatives at the customer’s first point of contact. The improvements have enhanced efficiency by allowing Customer Service Representatives to work at their desks and still serve walk-in customers. The new layout was also designed to give walk-in customers more privacy when conducting their business. The cashier counter was relocated during renovations. This relocation eliminated a need for a part-time cashier. Initial responses from our customers have been positive.
Administrative Services also implemented a credit bureau reporting system. This system assists staff in making decisions about customers’ credit, deposit requirements, extensions of credit, and payment plans. The system will eventually be used to streamline the process of initiating new services. We hope to be able to initiate new services over the telephone, making it more convenient for our customers without taking on more risk for the City.
Much of the first half of FY 2000 was spent preparing for Y2K. Much time was spent testing software for compliance. Because of those efforts, customers continued to receive services into the year 2000 without problems.
Automated meter reading equipment is being upgraded to read radio transmissions. This upgrade will allow Meter Readers to read a route without inconveniencing customers by entering houses or backyards. Currently, the radio-read meters are being installed in new developments. We will continue to investigate other efficient and cost-effective ways of reading meters.
Next year Administrative Services plans to continue training other departments on the Customer Information System. Dispatchers, Linemen, and Public Works water service staff will benefit from this information.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS/GROUNDS
The Grounds Division installed an irrigation system and landscaped the new J.P. Court #7 building as part of a cooperative agreement with the State. The Division continued to perform major yard repairs for the Electric Department in developments throughout the City. Two more flower beds were added to the Beautification Program making a total of 65 beds around the City. A major tree-planting program is underway which will involve the planting of more than 200 trees along City streets and in park areas. Maintenance of the electric transmission and distribution lines for the City electric system continued. The Grounds Division plans to continue maintaining all City properties, street and park trees, flower beds, and electric transmission and distribution lines in the upcoming year as well as performing major yard repairs for the Electric and Public Works departments, and assisting the Parks and Recreation Department with special events.
Installation of the Emergency Operations Center in the new Police Station was completed, and a citywide Y2K readiness exercise was conducted in November 1999. For the upcoming year, this department plans to conduct refresher training on the Emergency Operations Plan with City departments and a joint exercise and evaluation on some phase of the Plan utilizing the new Emergency Operations Center and support operation centers.
TAX ASSESSOR
The City continues to grow with a year-to-year assessment increase of $22 million for last July’s tax billing. To date since last July, we have added an additional $25.2 million in assessment to our tax base. Collections are up to date with no taxes over two years old being owed.
With the appointment of a new Assessor, this office is in the process of expanding its computer capabilities to include electronic house sketching and computerized valuation of both commercial and residential properties. The Assessor’s Office is truly entering the 21st Century.
PARKS AND RECREATION
The Dover Recreational Facilities Committee (DRFC) along with the Sports Marketing Group completed the Market Analysis Report for the Schutte Park Regional Community Sports and Recreation Center. A consultant has been hired to do a feasibility study on fundraising for this project. Philip Morris donated $5,000 towards the Recreation Center.
Recreation staff worked with the Kent County Tourism Corporation as a co-sponsor of the Old Dover Days festival. Staff also assisted with other programs sponsored by the Kent County Tourism Corporation such as "Thunder in Dover." These events will continue to grow each year. Staff handled all logistics for First Night® Dover.
The Department continues to expand its partnership with the Capital School District through co-sponsorship of Science and Technology Night and the Planetarium Show at William Henry Middle School. These two events attract approximately 600 people throughout the year. The Department also co-sponsors Summer Institution Learning Programs at William Henry Middle School. Participants range from the fourth through sixth grades. These courses included programs in such areas as space flights, woodworking, sewing, marine biology and beginning Spanish. It is projected that these learning programs will continue each year. Staff also instructs an after-school program at William Henry Middle School known as CapKids. This program assists students after school with homework and other tutorial methods. This program runs during the course of the school year.
The Greater Dover Arts Council has partnered with the Delaware State News to create, publish, and distribute a Calendar of Events for local arts organizations. To date, four calendars have been published, and approximately 55 organizations have been listed.
Staff continues to work with Kent County and the State of Delaware to create the Capital Bikebelt. The bike/walking/jogging trail will connect Schutte Park with Brechnock Park. The City received funding from the Transportation Enhancement Program to complete a preliminary study of how to cross the Conrail railroad track at New Burton Road near Blue Beach Road. The crossing will give residents of South Dover direct access to Schutte Park as part of the Capital Bikebelt Plan.
Work continues with the Silver Lake Commission to improve the water quality at Silver Lake.
The Department is working with the Friends of the Capitol Theater, Main Street Dover, Sewell C. Biggs Museum staff, and the Dover Art League to create a strategic plan for Downtown Dover that focuses on building upon the assessment and cultural planning that began in 1992 by developing partnerships between downtown businesses and services and the arts and cultural community. This group is still working with the “Capital Arts and Business Alliance” consultant for a final report.
Sports programs continue to grow, such as youth basketball, field hockey and softball leagues. Motor coach trips continue to have waiting lists. An exercise program began and is being held two evenings per week with an average attendance of 25 to 40 participants.
Staff has partnered with the Holy Cross Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) to form a community track team. To date, there are 35 youths ranging from the fourth through eighth grades. Competitions will begin in the spring.
With the guidance of the Information Services Department, Recreation staff implemented a new registration program called “ParcSoft.” Training has been completed, and the program will be ready for spring and summer program registrations.
A Delaware Prevention Network (DPN) Parent Council Support Group has been formed and meets monthly. These meetings promote healthy families and family bonding as well as job skills training.
DPN Youth Connections has a total of 58 youths enrolled to date. Staff uses this forum to educate youths about the effects of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, teen & school violence, and conflict resolution.
The DPN Track Club members competed in the AAU Jr. Olympic National Championships held in Knoxville, Tennessee. Two members of the team achieved “First Team Status” by placing in the top 25 percent in their age group. Members of the Track Club also competed in National Championships in Lexington, Kentucky, and Cleveland, Ohio.
ROBBINS HOSE COMPANY NO. 1
Robbins Hose Company No. 1, is entering its 118th year of providing volunteer fire and rescue service to the City of Dover and its surrounding area and is the only all-volunteer fire department in the nation to serve a state capital.
Under the leadership of Chief Carleton Carey, Jr., the volunteer firefighters responded to 979 alarms last year. In July, Robbins Hose Company responded with 50 firefighters to its largest response of the year on West Loockerman Street at the vacant building that formerly housed the M.A. Hartnett Company.
Robbins Hose Company continues to grow with the City with vigorous recruitment and training programs. Intensive training on fire and heavy rescue techniques such as confined space, high-angle trench, and ice and vehicle rescues is ongoing. Our fire prevention program last year was a tremendous success teaching fire safety tips and prevention to over 3,810 children.
A Ladder 1 Replacement Committee was established, and the new ladder truck (which will replace a 1981 Mac Tractor/American LaFrance aerial truck) is scheduled for delivery by the end of November.
With constant usage and the rapid progression of technology, both console and telephone equipment had become obsolete. In February 1999, a Committee was formed to seek out a vendor to replace the console and telephone equipment and also to ensure compatibility. Orbacom Systems was selected. The new telephone equipment was installed in November 1999. Before the consoles could be installed, a huge renovation of the existing alarm room was necessary. With the extraordinary efforts of the City's Facilities Management Division, this was completed in time for the delivery of new consoles.
The 27-year-old backup generator at Robbins Hose Headquarters was replaced in March. Funding for additional opticoms was received from State Legislators and installed at various intersections by the City's Electric Relay Division making response time quicker.
I salute the men and women of Robbins Hose Company for their dedicated volunteer service to this community.
CONCLUSION
As we close out another fiscal year and look forward to a new one, it is imperative that we work with the State of Delaware and support the Department of Transportation (DelDOT) in its purchase of the Delaware Air Park. The Delaware Air Park, when purchased by DelDOT will be turned into a public airport and subleased to the Delaware River and Bay Authority, which now runs the Civil Air Terminal at Dover Air Force Base. This transaction will truly meet aviation needs and concerns of central Delaware.
The construction taking place at the Capitol Theater represents a face-lift in excess of $6 million and will truly be a future enhancement for our City, County and State. The new hotel, a $55 million addition, for Dover Downs is also under construction and so is a new Holiday Inn Hotel. Both of these facilities will certainly go a long way in providing hotel accommodations for tourism. The Garrison Farm is another major parcel that is now available for a future corporation that will provide future job opportunities for our people. The City is working very hard with the State and County governments regarding this matter. We are currently working with the County government in its relocation efforts and hope to find a suitable location within the City of Dover. The City also supports the sale of the County Courthouse and the Robert W. O’Brien building to the State of Delaware. The issues surrounding the Schutte Park project are of major concern for the City, and we continue to work with the State of Delaware regarding raising the necessary funding in order to move forward with this facility.
The City will continue to work with our United States Congressman, Mike Castle, in support of House Resolution No. 1452, which if passed would provide interest-free loans for capital projects dealing with infrastructure.
As the budget cycle was completed last year, it was clear that the City would face a shortfall this year in the Balance Forward line item. I certainly give tremendous credit to our City Manager and Council for their leadership and for their passing of the trash fee that will provide the necessary funds to continue our operation. As a city we are committed to protecting our quality of life, addressing the needs and concerns of our citizens, and keeping our city safe and beautiful. There is no question that as we move forward, we will continue this tradition of excellence for the Dover community.
While this was a productive year for the City of Dover due in large part to the strong economy and growth, it was also a sad one with the passing of Former Mayor Crawford J. Carroll in March. He was a servant of the City for thirty years; his leadership and the team with which he worked were responsible for laying the foundation for which the City continues to operate today. He truly will be missed.
This year we are losing two senior councilmen, Robert Lambert and Thomas Leary, who have chosen to step down. Fortunately for the City, both have agreed to continue to serve the City in other capacities and are willing to assist us when called upon in the future. On a more positive note, I am happy to join members of Council, staff and our citizens in welcoming our two newest members to the Dover City Council, Bruce Gorman and William McGlumphy, both of whom have served as active members in other capacities with the City. They come well prepared to be a p