REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular Meeting of Council was held on February 9, 1987 at 7:30 p.m. with Mayor Carroll presiding. Members present were Mr. Richter, Mr. Ambruso, Mrs. Legates, Mr. Lynn, Mr. Christiansen, Mr. Witt, Mr. Weyandt and Mr. VanSant.
The invocation was given by Councilman VanSant.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mayor Carroll noted a letter of withdrawal for rezoning of lands located on the north side of College Road, owned by Baxter and Mary McKee. A letter of withdrawal was also received for the rezoning of property located on the corner of the City Plaza and State Street, owned by Barros, McNamara and Scanlon.
Mayor Carroll requested additional agenda items to discuss a letter from Chief Klenoski concerning the traffic flow on North Street and Bank Lane.
A letter was also received from Mr. Pete Brockstedt concerning reversing the traffic flow on North Street.
Mr. Richter requested an additional agenda item to consider a letter from Mr. William Frase, James Segfried, and Mr. Harry Rench, Locksmiths.
The agenda was unanimously approved as amended by motion of Mr. VanSant. seconded by Mr. Witt.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - COUNCIL MEETING OF FEBRUARY 2, 1987
The Minutes of the rescheduled Council Meeting of February 2, 1987 were unanimously approved by motion of Mr. Weyandt, seconded by Mr. VanSant and bore the written approval of Mayor Carroll.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - QUARTERLY OPEN TOWN MEETING OF FEBRUARY 2. 1987
The Minutes of the Quarterly Open Town Meeting of February 2, 1987 were unanimously approved by motion of Mr. Christiansen, seconded by Mr. VanSant and bore the written approval of Mayor Carroll.
PUBLIC HEARING - REZONING - NORTH SIDE OF COLLEGE ROAD, WEST OF MCKEE ROAD H. BAXTER AND MARY MCKEE
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to rezone land located on the north side of College Road, west of McKee Road, owned by H. Baxter and Mary McKee.
Mayor Carroll noted a letter of withdrawal for the rezoning from Mr. Robert Moore, realtor representing H. Baxter and Mary McKee.
Mr. Weyandt moved for approval of the rezoning withdrawal. seconded by Mr. VanSant and unanimously carried.
PUBLIC HEARING - REZONING - 104 SAULSBURY ROAD - EVELYN TROISE
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider rezoning 4.32 acres of land located at 104 Saulsbury Road, owned by Evelyn Troise.
Mayor Carroll declared the hearing open.
Mr. Vince Vizza, representing the PAT Organization, equitable owners, stated that the rezoning would support a planned 50 unit personal care center for the elderly. The center will offer room and board, medical assistance and other services for the elderly who do not necessarily demand the services of a nursing home.
Mr. Christiansen moved for approval of the rezoning, seconded by Mr. Lynn and by unanimous roll call vote, Council adopted the following ordinance:
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF DOVER BY CHANGING THE ZONING DESIGNATION OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT 104 SAULSBURY ROAD.
WHEREAS, the City of Dover has enacted a zoning ordinance regulating the use of property within the limits of the City of Dover, and
WHEREAS, it is deemed In the best interest of zoning and planning to change the permitted use of property described below from C-3 to RG-2.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
1. That from and after the passage and approval of this ordinance the Zoning Map and Zoning Ordinance of the City of Dover has been amended by changing the zoning designation from C-3 to RG-2 on that property located at 104 Saulsbury Road, owned by Evelyn Troise.
ADOPTED: February 9, 1987
PUBLIC HEARING - REZONING OF LAND LOCATED ON THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE PLAZA AND STATE STREET - BARROS, MCNAMARA AND SCANLON
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider rezoning property located on the southeast corner of The Plaza and State Street, known as the Keith building.
Noting a letter of withdrawal of the rezoning from Mr. Edward R. McNamara of Barros, McNamara and Scanlon, Mr. Weyandt moved for approval of the request to withdraw the rezoning, seconded by Mr. VanSant and unanimously carried.
PUBLIC HEARING - REZONING OF LAND LOCATED ON WATER STREET - IRENE SHOCKLEY
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider rezoning land located on Water Street, owned by Irene Shockley. The equitable owner is Gerald I.H. Street.
Mayor Carroll declared the hearing open.
There was no one present to speak for against the rezoning and no correspondence.
The Planning Commission recommended approval of the rezoning on Water Street from RG-1 to RG-O, noting that the Comprehensive Plan recommends central commercial and an office is permitted In this zone. Mr. Street's facility will also be next to a professional building and this type of development should be encouraged on Water Street because of its close proximity to the Court House, County, State and City buildings, and its upgrading of the central Dover area.
Mr. VanSant moved for approval of the rezoning, seconded by Mr. Lynn and by unanimous roll call vote, Council adopted the following ordinance:
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF DOVER BY CHANGING THE ZONING DESIGNATION OF PROPERTY LOCATED ON WATER STREET.
WHEREAS, the City of Dover has enacted a zoning ordinance regulating the use of property within the limits of the City of Dover, and
WHEREAS, it is deemed in the best Interest of zoning and planning to change the permitted use of property described below from RG-1 to RG-O.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
1. That from and after the passage and approval of this ordinance the Zoning Map and Zoning Ordinance of the City of Dover has been amended by changing the zoning designation from RG-1 to RG-O on that property located on Water Street, owned by Irene Shockley .
ADOPTED: February 9, 1987
PUBLIC HEARING - REZONING - SOUTHEAST CORNER OF ROUTE #8 AND MIFFLIN ROAD - C & F ENTERPRISES, INC.
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider rezoning land located on the southeast corner of Route #8 and Mifflin Road, owned by C & F Enterprises, Inc.
Mayor Carroll declared the hearing open.
The City Clerk read into the record the following letter to Mayor Carroll and members of Council concerning the commercial portion of the rezoning request:
"Dear Mayor Carroll and Council Members:
C & F Enterprises, Inc. does hereby request that its C-4 zoning request on the property at the corner of Route #8 and Mifflin Road be withdrawn and that C-1A zoning be substituted in Its place as per the recommendation of the Dover Planning Committee."
The letter was signed by Frank H. Furr, President of C & F Enterprises, Inc.
The Planning Commission recommended denial of the request for C-4, reasoning that C-1 or C-1A would be more appropriate for the area. The Planning Commission also recommended R-10 and R-8 for the residential portion of the rezoning request.
In qualifying the action taken by the City of Dover Planning Commission, the City Planner advised that the Commission considered the following points:
1. Existing Land Use
The existing land use on Mifflin Road is single family residential on the north side of Route #8 it is multi-family residential. The property to the east of the plot being considered for rezoning is in the County and is zoned for general business.
2. Comprehensive Plan Recommendation
The Comprehensive Plan recommends medium density residential and commercial on the corner of Mifflin Road and Route #8.
3.Other Considerations
The Planning Commission approved R-10 zoning because it will be in keeping with the houses located on Mifflin Road. The R-8 zoning was approved since it will be keeping with the Woodmill development. Both of these zones are low density which is more restrictive than the Comprehensive Plan requires.
The Planning Commission recommendations for the C-4 portion of the land amended the applicant's request by recommending C-1A zoning (neighborhood commercial). The Commission felt that highway commercial would permit uses which should not be allowed on Route #8. The C-1A zoning would permit uses such as Courtney Square, South Little Creek Road Shopping Complex, Whiteoak Road Shopping Complex, and a similar one recently approved for the Hamlet area. This type of zoning would serve the neighborhood and would also meet the requirements of the Comprehensive Plan that recommends commercial use.
Mr. Richter noted that the original legal advertisement of the public hearing for the zoning request designated a C-4 zoning. He questioned if the amended application requesting C-1A would be legally acceptable.
Since the request for C-1A zoning versus C-4 is more restrictive, it was the City Solicitor's opinion that Council could consider the C-1A zoning.
Mr. VanSant noted that the Planning Commission's recommendation, as submitted on the report, recommended C-1 or C-1A. The Planner's report, under other considerations, states that the Planning Commission's recommendation for the C-4 (highway commercial) is an amendment that would grant the applicant C-1A zoning. He questioned whether Council would have a choice of either C-1 or C-1A.
City Solicitor Rodriguez stated that although the Planning Commission recommended either C-1 or C-1A, the applicant has now requested C-1A specifically. The question before Council at this point is either granting or denying the C-1A zoning.
Mr. Frank Furr, President of C & F Enterprises, Inc., stated that the Planning Commission recommendation gives a choice of C-1 or C-1A, whichever is the most applicable to the plans of the developer. He further stated that a C-4 zoning is more applicable to the plans of his corporation. However, due to the opposition by Mifflin Road residents and in an effort to appease these objections, his application now designates a C-1A zoning for the commercial portion of the property.
Mr. Furr stated that a C-1 zoning contains a restriction of 2,000 square feet per building or unit, which, in his opinion is not feasible for this commercial site. C-1A is less restrictive in relation to square footage per unit requirements.
Mr. Jonathan Seda of 251 Mifflin Road, President of the Mifflin Road Property Owners Association. noted a petition signed by 43 individual property owners. In brief, the petition stated that "We, the undersigned property owners, object to any commercial zoning on the southeast corner of Mifflin Road and Route #8. However, reviewing the zoning alternatives, the least objectionable zoning which we can accept is C-1. In light of this compromise, we urge you, the City of Dover Council, to vote no to the rezoning request as it now stands, and further, we agree not to oppose a rezoning to C-1".
Mr. Seda stated the resident's objection that entrances and exits for the commercial property will face three residential properties on Mifflin Road. The residents are opposed to the possibility of gas pumps, feeling that this activity would jeopardize the neighborhood and devaluate property.
Questioned by members of Council, Mr. Seda stated that he did not receive a copy of the letter from C & F Enterprises, Inc. requesting C-1A zoning. He also stated that he had not tried to contact the developer in the past week.
Mr. Charles Lyons, Vice-President of C & F Enterprises, Inc., stated that neither he, nor Mr. Furr, have received any telephone calls concerning meetings by the Mifflin Road Association to discuss the zoning. He did not feel that the commercial zoning would be spot zoning since existing County properties along Route #8 are presently zoned for general business. He stated that C & F Enterprises has made many concessions with the property owners, including a buffer on Mifflin Road. In addition, C & F Enterprises will lose 50' of the commercial property to the State for improvements to the intersection.
Mr. Roger Hill, Vice-President of the Mifflin Road Property Owners Association, reiterated concerns that the entrances and exits for the commercial development at the intersection of Route #8 and Mifflin Road will be on Mifflin Road. He stated his opinion that Route #8 will become predominately commercial, but objected to infringement on residential areas such as Mifflin Road through spot zoning.
Mrs. Ruth Lyons spoke to the concerns of property owners on Mifflin Road that the commercial establishment would face Mifflin Road, noting that the depth of the commercial property is approximately 250' and frontage on Route #8 is just under 300'. Mrs. Lyons stated that it would, therefore, not be logical to face the business on Mifflin Road.
Mayor Carroll declared the hearing closed.
Mr. VanSant moved to refer the rezoning back to the Planning Commission since the Planning Commission's recommendation to Council consisted of C-1 or C-1A zoning on the commercial parcel and the petitioner had appeared before the Planning Commission with a request of C-4 and has now requested C-1A. The motion was seconded by Mr. Christiansen.
After conferring with the City Solicitor, Mayor Carroll ruled the motion out of order, noting that the applicant has submitted a request for C-1A zoning and the Planning Commission has recommended C-1 or C-1A.
Mr. Witt moved to approve C-1 zoning for the commercial portion of the property and R-8 and R-10 zoning for the residential development. The motion was seconded by Mr. Christiansen.
It was Solicitor Rodriguez's opinion that the applicant has applied for a zoning of C-1A, therefore, Council must approve or disapprove that zoning category. The applicant originally applied for C-4 and has stated that they do not want C-1 zoning for the commercial property.
Mayor Carroll ruled the motion out of order.
Mr. VanSant moved to deny the rezoning application for C-1A, seconded by Mr. Christiansen. By a roll call vote of four (4) no (Mr. Richter, Mrs. Legates, Mr. Witt and Mr. Weyandt). and four (4) yes (Mr. Ambruso, Mr. Lynn, Mr. Christiansen and Mr. VanSant), the motion for denial of C-1A was not approved.
Solicitor Rodriguez advised that the tie vote constitutes no action by Council, therefore, an additional motion on the rezoning would be in order.
As recommended by Mayor Carroll, Mr. VanSant moved to table and refer the matter back to the Planning Commission for a definite recommendation of either C-1 or C-1A zoning. it was noted that the Planning Commission will meet on February 17, 1987 and their recommendation will be considered during the Regular Council Meeting of February 23, 1987. The motion was seconded by Mr. Christiansen and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
LEGISLATIVE AND FINANCE COMMITTEE - CHARTER REVIEW
Mr. Witt stated that the Legislative and Finance Committee and members of Council have met several times during the past months to discuss Charter review items. As a result of these discussions, the following items are submitted to Council for final action:
Council Members with Unexpired Terms Filing for Office of Mayor
It was recommended by the committee that the filing deadline for the office of Mayor of the City of Dover shall be the last working day in January at 4:00 pm. The term of a Council member filing for the office of Mayor shall automatically expire on the second Monday in May of the year in which he or she filed for such office. In the event the Council member who filed has remaining time in their elected term, that seat shall be up for election in the same year. The term shall be to fill the unexpired term of the Council member who ran for the office of Mayor.
Mr. Witt moved for the aforementioned recommendation, stipulating that the City Solicitor prepare legislation for submission to the General Assembly of the State of Delaware. The motion was seconded by Mr. VanSant.
Mr. Christiansen stated his objections to the motion, pointing out that on the national, state, and county levels, officials are permitted to run for a higher office, while holding their current office.
By a roll call vote of seven (7) yes, one (1) no (Mr. Christiansen), the recommendation was approved.
Mayor's Right to Break a Tie Vote
Mr. Witt stated that a recommendation to amend Section 14 of the Charter to allow the Mayor a vote in case a tie vote of Council was not unanimously agreed upon by those present during discussions. He submitted the following language for Section 14 of the Charter to permit the Mayor a vote In the case of a tie:
The Mayor shall be the executive and chief official of the City. He shall preside at meetings of the Council and shall have no vote except in the case of a tie.
Mr. Witt moved for the amendment to Section 14 as submitted, stipulating that the City Solicitor prepare legislation for action by the General Assembly. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Legates and failed by a tie vote with Mr. Richter, Mr. Lynn, Mr. Christiansen, and Mr. Weyandt voting no.
Personal Expenses to Mayor, Council, Appeals Board. Civilian Committee Members, Etc.
Mr. VanSant submitted a proposal that would adjust the compensation for personal expenses to Mayor and members of Council, election judges, adding citizen participation on committees, and City employees serving on committees that meet after regular working hours.
Mr. Lynn objected to the submission of the proposal, feeling that it circumvented the committee level.
Mr. VanSant moved to approve the following proposal, stipulating that the City Solicitor prepare legislation for submission to the General Assembly. The motion was seconded by Mr. Richter and carried by a roll call vote of six (6) yes, two (2) no (Mr. Lynn and Mr. Weyandt).
1.Each appointed member of the City Planning Commission shall receive $50 per diem expenses, paid quarterly, for preparation and attendance at each Planning Commission meeting.
2.Each appointed member to the Assessment Appeals Board shall receive $50 per diem expenses, paid quarterly, for preparation and attendance at each meeting of the Appeals Board.
3.Any person, not a City employee, appointed to serve as an Election Judge for any City of Dover Municipal election shall receive $100 per diem expenses, for each such election attended. Employees of the City of Dover, appointed to serve as an Election Judge for any City of Dover Municipal election, shall receive $25 per diem expenses in addition to their regular salary, for each municipal election attended.
4.Each appointed member to any City Council Committee, not serving an elected term to any City office, shall receive $40 per diem expenses, paid quarterly, for preparation and attendance at each committee to which said member is appointed. Any City employee, appointed to a City Council Committee shall only be entitled to the $25 per diem expense if such Committee meeting is held after 5:00 p.m. on a scheduled work day or at any time on a City approved holiday.
5.The Mayor of the City of Dover shall receive $100 per diem expenses, paid quarterly, for preparation and attendance at each meeting of City Council.
6.Members elected to City Council shall receive $75 per diem expenses, paid quarterly, for preparation and attendance at each meeting of City Council.
Mr. Lynn stated that many other items were discussed during Charter review discussions; one being dual registration. At that time, it was suggested that staff prepare a report that would include necessary procedures to merge the City of Dover registration system with the State of Delaware/Kent County.
Mayor Carroll suggested that the City Clerk prepare the report for members of Council that would include the many obstacles that must be overcome to initiate a registration merger with Kent County.
Noting that the Charter Review Committee addressed many possible amendments to the Charter such as the role of Mayor and Council, at-large voting, and a ninth member of Council, Mr. Lynn wanted to advise the citizens of Dover that these items were considered in discussion by members of the committee and Council. The items as presented tonight were amendments agreed upon by the committee to submit for action by the legislative body.
ANNUAL REPORTS - 1986
Inspections/Planning
By motion of Mr. Witt, seconded by Mr. Weyandt, the 1986 Annual Report for Inspections/Planning Department was unanimously approved as submitted.
Robbins Hose Company
Questioned by Mr. Ambruso, Deputy Chief Whitham stated that the relocation of sirens is 50% completed. The Robbins Hose Company is attempting to reduce the number of siren soundings due to citizen complaints.
Mr. Richter moved to approve the Robbins Hose Company 1986 Annual Report, seconded by Mr. Ambruso and unanimously carried.
Mr. Weyandt suggested that the Robbins Hose Company include their budget in the next Annual Report submitted to Council.
Mr. Christiansen stated that the 1986 financial report could be made available to Council members.
Police Department
By motion of Mr. Richter, seconded by Mr. Christiansen, the Police Department Annual Report for 1986 was unanimously accepted as submitted.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN - REFERRAL TO STANDING COMMITTEES
Mr. Witt moved that the Five Year Capital Improvement Plan be referred to the appropriate committees, seconded by Mrs. Legates and unanimously carried.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE REPORT
The Parks and Recreation Committee met on January 27, 1987 at 7:30 p.m. with Chairman Weyandt presiding.
Park - East Side of Saulsbury Road Between Route #8 and North Street (Lincoln Park Civic Association - Reuben Salters, President)
A letter from Mr. Reuben Salters, President of the Lincoln Park Civic Association, requested that the City consider developing a park on City owned land on the east side of Saulsbury Road, between Route #8 and North Street. Additional letters from Mr. & Mrs. John Baldwin, Mr. & Mrs. Robert Coppadge, and Mr. & Mrs. Harvey Johnson, objected to the development of a park, noting that they live adjacent to the land and have witnessed undesirable activities.
The committee recommended that staff meet with the Lincoln Park Association at their convenience to discuss the City's plans for the park area and to receive their input and suggestions concerning the development of the site. Those persons objecting to the park development will also be notified of the meeting.
Bandstand - The Green - Thelma Lewis
Mrs. Thelma Lewis suggested that a bandstand be built on The Green to shelter sensitive electronic equipment used during entertainment functions.
Mr. Weyandt stated that the committee will submit the proposal to Mr. Norman Day for further study since Mr. Day is the consultant involved with improvements to The Green area relative to Constitution Place.
A report will be submitted to Council upon receipt of Mr. Day's comments.
Civic Center - Thelma Lewis
An additional letter from Mrs. Thelma Lewis noted that Delaware is one of the few states that does not have a civic center facility that could cater to functions involving a large attendance. The committee suggested that the matter of a civic center be submitted to Mr. Al Hedgecock, Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce.
Improved Lighting - Dover Little League - Horsepond Road
Mr. Robert Young of the Dover Little League advised the committee that the League facility on Horsepond Road is in dire need of improved lighting, noting that the facility supports approximately 600 participants. The present lighting is obsolete and cannot be maintained. Mr. Young submitted estimates for the new lighting of approximately $12,000. Installation of the new lighting would probably cost $12,000 plus.
The committee suggested that the matter be submitted to staff for the purpose of determining the cost of the new lighting and financing available.
Mr. Weyandt expressed concern that the Dover Little League would like to have the lighting installed for the coming season, beginning in April or May.
Signs Denoting Requirements of Dog Ordinance
Councilman Lynn submitted a photocopied picture of a sign utilized by Rehoboth, briefly outlining control of dogs and related fines.
Noting that the City of Dover recently passed a dog control ordinance, the committee felt that posting of cemeteries, schools, and other public areas where dog owners walk their pets would aid in enforcing the ordinance. The public facilities involved will be asked to furnish financial assistance in the manufacturing of the signs.
The matter of producing a sign will be reviewed by the City Manager.
Mr. VanSant moved to accept the Parks and Recreation Committee Report as submitted, seconded by Mr. Lynn and unanimously carried.
SAFETY ADVISORY COMMITTEE REPORT
The Safety Advisory Committee met on January 27, 1987 at 8:00 p.m. with Chairman Weyandt presiding.
Capitol Cleaners - Request for Loading Zone - Two Parking Spaces - Governors Avenue
Mr. E. Stuart Outten, Jr. owner of Capitol Cleaners and Launderers, located on Governors Avenue, requested that two parking spaces in front of his facility be converted to a loading zone. The expansion of Capitol Cleaners has utilized a considerable portion of the land formerly used for loading and unloading. Mr. Outten stated that the loading zone Is essential to his operation.
The committee recommended approval of the loading zone, utilizing two parking spaces In front of 411 S. Governors Avenue.
Mr. Weyandt moved for the recommendation of the committee, seconded by Mrs. Legates and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Fire Siren - Dover and New Streets - Zacharia Bowers - Daytime Operation Only
A letter from Mr. Zacharia Bowers complained of the noise level created by the fire siren located at Dover and New Streets.
Deputy Chief Whitham advised that Chief Willson has contacted Mr. Bowers by telephone to discuss the matter.
Intersection of State and Reed Streets - Councilman VanSant
In a letter to Chairman Weyandt, Councilman VanSant stated his opinion that the intersection of State and Reed Streets is a traffic hazard due to vehicles attempting to cross State Street with inadequate vision of oncoming traffic.
In a report submitted by Chief Klenoski, it was noted that only five accidents have occurred at the intersection in the past 12 months. All of these accidents occurred between 12:00 noon and 5:30 p.m. Four of the accidents involved minor property damage and one Involved a personal injury.
After discussing the matter at length, the committee recommended that one parking space be removed on the northwest corner of Reed Street, providing more visibility.
Mr. Weyandt moved for the recommendation of the committee, seconded by Mr. Ambruso.
In observing an accident at the intersection, Mr. VanSant felt that the problem of visibility exists on State Street due to traffic backing up for vehicles wanting to make a left turn off State Street Into the Wilmington Trust parking lot. Vehicles attempting to cross State Street on Reed Street are blinded by the backed up traffic and pull out In front of motorists traveling north on State Street.
Mr. Weyandt's motion to remove one parking space on the northwest corner of Reed Street, at the intersection of State Street, was unanimously carried.
Removal of No Parking Signs - East Side of Queen Street Between Loockerman and Division Streets
The east side of Queen Street, between Loockerman and Division Streets, is presently posted for no parking. This ordinance was Initiated to afford additional travel for the Trailways buses using Queen Street for access to the bus station on Loockerman Street. Since December 1986, the Trailway bus station has been moved to the area of The Dry Goods on Route #113.
The committee recommended removal of the no parking signs on the east side of Queen Street, between Loockerman and Division Streets.
Mr. Weyandt moved for the recommendation of the committee, seconded by Mr. Christiansen and unanimously carried.
No Thru Traffic and Children Playing Signs - Quail Hollow Drive
Mr. Mike Adams, a resident of Quail Hollow Drive, requested signs stating "No Thru Traffic" and "Slow - Children Playing". He pointed out excessive traffic which is generated by motorists turning off Walker Road, using Quail Hollow Drive for access to McKee Road north.
In a report to the committee, Chief Klenoski recommended that the City post "Slow - Children Playing" signs where feasible on Quail Hollow Drive. He did not recommend the No Thru Traffic signs since Quail Hollow Drive Is a public street for the use of all traffic. The sign would eliminate very little thru traffic and would be almost impossible to enforce.
The committee recommended that "Slow - Children Playing" signs be erected on Quail Hollow Drive.
Mr. Weyandt moved for the recommendation of the committee, seconded by Mrs. Legates and unanimously carried.
Report on West Dover State Roads Study
The City Manager has written the State Highway Department to inquire about their plans for Walker Road and College Road between Saulsbury Road and Kenton Road. A letter from the State advised of no plans for improvement to Walker Road or College Road.
Mr. Weyandt advised of a meeting with State representatives who stated that College Road was placed in a bond bill for improvement, but there was no information available as to when the project will be initiated.
Mr. Weyandt stated that improvements to College Road will be investigated and a report submitted to Council at a later date.
Mr. Witt moved for approval of the Safety Advisory Committee Report as submitted, seconded by Mr. Christiansen and unanimously carried.
CORRESPONDENCE
Tom Dingle - 215 Old Flint Circle - Commendation to City Staff on Snow Removal Efforts
A letter from Mr. Tom Dingle of 215 Old Flint Circle commended City personnel for a job well done in cleaning snow during the recent excessive snow fall.
Mr. Witt moved to acknowledge receipt of the letter, seconded by Mr. Christiansen and unanimously carried.
Douglas Ross - Need for Comprehensive Parking Study for Downtown Area
Mr. D. Douglas Ross of 952 Monroe Terrace noted the difficulty in finding parking in the downtown area and suggested a comprehensive parking study.
Mr. Weyandt moved to forward a copy of the letter to the Dover Parking Authority for consideration under the Authority's present comprehensive study. The motion was seconded by Mr. VanSant and unanimously carried.
Mrs. Ann Harris - 56 S. New Street - Appreciation of Beauty of the City of Dover
A letter from Mrs. Ann Harris of 56 S. New Street, a new resident of Dover from Baltimore. Maryland, expressed her appreciation for the services provided by the City and cleanliness that contributes to the beauty of the City.
Mr. Witt moved to acknowledge receipt of the letter, seconded by Mr. Christiansen and unanimously carried.
Traffic Flow on North Street and Bank Lane - Chief Klenoski
A letter to Mayor and Council from Chief Klenoski stated the department's opposition to changing the traffic flow on North Street and in brief, submitted the following reasons:
1. Truck delivery will be backing from the blind side on North Street
2. Insufficient turning radius - North Street
3. Turning west on North Street from State Street would have to be prohibited, forcing traffic on Federal Street then to North Street
4. Entrances and exits on North Street are designed for west to east flow
5. Changing flow on Bank Lane will force residents to drive several blocks out of their way for access to business and residences.
Mr. Weyandt suggested that a copy of Chief Klenoski’s letter be forwarded to Mr. Norman Day, consultant for Constitution Place. He also could not understand why Mr. Day has not consulted the Police Department on recommended changes of traffic flow.
Members noted that during the Council Meeting of January 26, 1987, Council approved the closing of Court Street at Federal Street to vehicular traffic; that parking be eliminated from Water Street to Loockerman Street on State Street; the present east to west flow of traffic on Bank Lane be reversed to run west to east; the present flow of traffic on North Street from Federal Street to Queen Street be reversed; and that all changes be made effective 12:01 a.m. on February 16, 1987.
Mr. Richter pointed out that Chief Klenoski’s letter notes several difficulties that would be encountered through Council's action of January 26, 1987. In addition, Mr. Raymond Pusey, Traffic Division of the State Highway Department, also expressed some concerns with reversing traffic on North Street and the closing of Court Street. He suggested rescinding Council's action of January 26, 1987 to allow time for additional review of the matter.
Mr. Richter moved to rescind the action of Council on January 26, 1987 as aforementioned, pending a report back from the City Manager and the Safety Advisory Committee. The notion was seconded by Mr. VanSant and unanimously carried.
Reversing Traffic Flow on North Street - Peter Brockstedt
A letter from Mr. Peter Brockstedt stated that he is a strong supporter for the redevelopment of areas around The Green and State Street. However, he expressed concern for reversing the flow of traffic on North Street. Mr. Brockstedt noted many changes that will be necessary to handle delivery trucks. He also suggested notification to property owners before further changes are initiated.
Mr. Witt moved for referral to the Safety Advisory Committee and to acknowledge receipt of the letter, seconded by Mr. Christiansen and unanimously carried.
Locksmiths of Dover - Concern That Police Unlock Automobiles
A letter from Mr. William Frase, James Segfried, and Harry Wrench, local locksmiths, referred to a letter written by the locksmiths dated December 18, 1986 concerning Dover Police and a policy of providing free service to motorists who have locked their keys in their cars. The letter Issued an opinion that the City of Dover Police Department is infringing on a private licensed business who charges a fee for the service.
In the letter dated February 3rd, it was stated that over a month has gone by and no reply from the City of Dover has been received. The letter also noted that the matter was referred to the Mayor and the Chief of Police. It was the opinion of the locksmiths that the Police Department Is operating a total monopoly against them, noting that they pay City of Dover license fees to earn a livelihood performing a trade within the City.
Mr. Richter stated that he is aware of three cities where the Police Departments will not furnish a locksmith service; those being Brunswick, Georgia; Annapolis, Maryland; and Scranton, Pennsylvania. He wondered if the City of Dover Police Department is in step with policies of the rest of the country in providing free service to motorists who have locked their keys in their cars. Mr. Richter also wondered if the free locksmith service might Infringe on the manpower necessary to conduct the department for normal police affairs.
Chief Klenoski stated that his department receives one call for unlocking vehicles every six hours or 3.6 per day. The average unlocking procedure takes about two minutes. The time involved for this free emergency service has no affect on the budget of the police department. If the procedure for unlocking the locked vehicle cannot be accomplished in two minutes, the motorist is advised by the police officer to seek professional help. The department has received no complaints from car owners concerning damage to the locking mechanism of the vehicle.
Chief Klenoski advised that in January 1987, the department handled 133 lockjock jobs. During the year of 1986, the department handled 1,322 which is equivalent to approximately eight minutes per day.
Mayor Carroll felt that unlocking vehicles for citizens is a worthy courtesy extended to families who are in need of quick decisive action.
Meeting Adjourned at 10:20 P.M.
WILLIAM H. WILLIS
CITY CLERK
All orders, ordinances and resolutions adopted by City Council during their meeting of February 9, 1987, are hereby approved.
CRAWFORD J. CARROLL
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