REGULAR MEETING
November 14, 1977
The Regular Meeting of Council was held on November 14, 1977 at 7:30 p.m. with Mayor Legates presiding. Council members present were Messrs. McDonough, Weyandt, Muir, Hardcastle, Carey, Witt, Carson and Bewick.
The invocation was given by the Reverend J.H. Williams, Council Chaplain.
AGENDA ADDITIONS
Mr. Bewick requested an additional item to discuss the Social Security program and the City of Dover’s participation.
Mr. McDonough requested an additional agenda item to discuss the possibility of appointing an Acting City Manager.
Mr. Witt requested an additional agenda item to discuss the Annual Audit Report.
MINUTES - REGULAR MEETING OF OCTOBER 24, 1977
Mr. McDonough requested a correction in the Minutes of October 24, 1977 under the heading of “Nomination - Police Pension Board” as follows.
Mayor Legates presented the name of Sgt. Jerry Shepard to serve on the Police Pension Board. Mr. Witt moved for approval of the nomination, seconded by Mr. Muir and carried. Mr. McDonough voted no.
Mr. Weyandt requested an addition to the Minutes of October 24, 1977 under the heading of holiday trash collection to specify that proper publicity be given to the public in relation to the change in trash collection schedules when a holiday falls on a Monday.
By motion of Mr. Weyandt, seconded by Mr. Muir, the Minutes of October 24, 1977 were approved as corrected and bore the written approval of Mayor Legates.
MINUTES - SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF NOVEMBER 8, 1977
By motion of Mr. Hardcastle, seconded by Mr. Muir, the Minutes of October 24, 1977 were approved as corrected and bore the written approval of Mayor Legates.
KENT GENERAL HOSPITAL WEEK - 50th ANNIVERSARY - PROCLAMATION
By motion of Mr. Bewick, seconded by Mr. Witt, Council approved the following Proclamation.
WHEREAS, Kent General Hospital was constructed in 1927 to fulfill the urgent need for hospital facilities in Central Kent County; and
WHEREAS, through several expansion programs vigorously supported by the community Kent General Hospital increased its bed capacity from 40 to 138 and kept abreast of modern techniques in health care by including in these expansion programs a new Operating Room, Emergency Room, Pharmacy, Laboratory, enlarged Central Supply, and Intensive Care and Coronary Care Unit; and
WHEREAS, Kent General Hospital has won the support of the community as evidenced by the solid response of the citizens to its needs and the keen interest shown in its activities.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, CHARLES A. LEGATES, JR., Mayor of the City of Dover, do hereby designate the week of November 14, 1977 as Kent General Hospital Week in celebration of its 50th Anniversary and urge all citizens to take notice and be aware of the significant contributions in health care Kent General Hospital has provided to all citizens in and around the City of Dover.
PROCLAMATION - NATIONAL REACT MONTH
By motion of Mr. Bewick, seconded by Mr. Witt, Council approved the following Proclamation.
WHEREAS, through REACT (Radio Emergency Associated Citizens Teams), over 100,000 Americans participate as volunteers to provide highway safety and emergency communications using their own CB radios in their local communities; and
WHEREAS, their cumulative effort, totaling over 21 million volunteer man-hours this year, result in the saving of many American lives annually, through the greater speed with which medical aid is reached to an accident scene, and better communications provided in time of natural disaster;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, CHARLES A. LEGATES, JR., MAYOR OF THE CITY OF DOVER, do hereby designate the month of November, 1977, as NATIONAL REACT MONTH in Dover, during which all citizens shall take notice and be aware of the significant contribution every local REACT team makes to the welfare of their local community, and the nation as a whole. National REACT Month shall be dedicated as time to honor and recognize these local citizens groups and their individual members.
PROCLAMATION - BIBLE WEEK
By motion of Mr. Bewick, seconded by Mr. Witt, Council approved the following Proclamation.
WHEREAS, the truths of the Bible are eternal and their application to the complexities of modern society a continuing challenge; and
WHEREAS, the recovery of the moral and spiritual principles of the Bible remains a high priority goal as we move into America’s third century; and
WHEREAS, all the major religious groups and hundreds of clubs and organizations are united behind the Laymen’s Nation Bible Committee’s program to motivate Bible reading and study;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, CHARLES A. LEGATES, JR., MAYOR of the City of Dover, Delaware, in recognition of the importance of the Bible and its teachings, do hereby proclaim the week of November 20 - 27, 1977 as “BIBLE WEEK” in the City of Dover and commend this observance to citizens of all faiths.
PROCLAMATION - VOICE OF DEMOCRACY WEEK
By motion of Mr. Bewick, seconded by Mr. Witt, Council approved the following Proclamation.
WHEREAS, one of the basic aims of the Veterans of Foreign Wars as set forth in its Congressional Charter is “to foster true patriotism”, and
WHEREAS, the Voice of Democracy Scholarship Program sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and its Ladies Auxiliary, has proved to be an effective instrument for putting these words into action, and
WHEREAS, the Voice of Democracy Scholarship Program, in this its 31st year, provides an opportunity for high school students to think, write and speak up for our country and for freedom and democracy, and
WHEREAS, this year’s theme, “My Responsibility to America”, focuses the attention of youth on out country and its meaning for them and on their understanding of the ideals on which out nation was founded, and
WHEREAS, an active, dedicated and resourceful citizenry is vital to the preservation of Freedom as our Nation embarks upon its third century.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, CHARLES A. LEGATES, JR., Mayor of the City of Dover, do hereby proclaim December 1 - 8, 1977 as Voice of Democracy Week in Dover, and
IN OBSERVANCE THEREOF, I do hereby commend the Veterans of Foreign Wars and its Ladies Auxiliary for their sponsorship of the 31st annual Voice of Democracy Program and I call upon 10th, 11th and 12th grade students in our schools to think and write and speak up for America and to address the question “My Responsibility to America”.
PROCLAMATION - FAMILY WEEK
By motion of Mr. Bewick, seconded by Mr. Witt, Council approved the following Proclamation.
WHEREAS, the family is the basic strength of any free and orderly society; and
WHEREAS, it is appropriate to honor the family as a unit essential to the continued well-being of Dover; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting that official recognition be given to the importance of family loyalties and ties;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, CHARLES A LEGATES, JR., Mayor of the City of Dover do hereby proclaim the week of November 20 - 26, 1977 as FAMILY WEEK and I urge all people consider joining in meaningful activities such as family discussion, home improvement projects, church attendance, recreational sports, and family prayer; and I recommend that youth organizations, service clubs and other civic groups and churches feature speakers and activities during this week to focus attention on family solidarity.
RESOLUTION - MRS. EDNA BICE
By motion of Mr. Witt, seconded by Mr. Hardcastle, Council unanimously approved the following resolution.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the City of Dover have been greatly saddened by the untimely death of Mrs. Edna Bice, the first Librarian in the City of Dover, who departed this life on November 9, 1977; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Bice set up the first library system for the Dover Public Library in the days when the library was located upstairs in the old City Hall building; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Bice, in her capacity as Librarian, procured books for organizations, schools and individuals, thereby accumulating a wide variety of reading material for the people of the City of Dover and surrounding area; and
WHEREAS, because of the success of Mrs. Bice’s library system the Dover Public Library became extremely popular and outgrew its facilities in the old City Hall building, thus bringing about the creation of the new building presently in use on Reed and State Streets.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
1. That the Mayor and Council express their regret at the death of Mrs. Edna Bice and extend their deepest sympathy to her family and friends.
2. That the Mayor and Council recognize the contributions of Mrs. Bice in setting up the first library system in the City of Dover.
3. That the Mayor and Council direct the City Clerk to make this Resolution a part of the permanent records of the City of Dover in expression of their appreciation to Mrs. Edna Bice.
ADOPTED NOVEMBER 14, 1977 (The original document indicated “October 14, 1977" as the adoption date.)
LEGISLATIVE AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT
The Legislative and Finance Committee met on November 9, 1977 with Chairman Muir presiding.
Mr. Muir reviewed the various subjects considered by the Legislative and Finance Committee up to the proposed revised vacation policy.
Mr. Witt moved to accept the recommendation of the Legislative and Finance Committee to adopt the proposed revised vacation policy. The motion was seconded by Mr. Muir.
Mr. McDonough stated that various subjects preceding the proposed revised vacation policy required Council action as recommended by the Committee.
Mr. Witt withdrew his motion to adopt the proposed revised vacation policy, as did Mr. Muir his second.
Parking Meter Ordinance
The Committee discussed the possibility of amending the ordinance which mandates the use of parking meters until 9:00 p.m. on Friday nights only. All other days it is necessary to use meters until 6:00 p.m. except on Sundays and holidays.
The Committee recommended to defer action on this matter due to other necessary changes that may be necessary in the downtown revitalization project. Noting the confusion of some residents due to the Friday night parking meter prohibition, Mr. Bewick moved that an ordinance be drawn to facilitate a consistency in the parking meter prohibition by changing Friday night parking prohibition to 6:00 p.m. rather than 9:00 p.m. and that a public hearing be held on December 12, 1977 at 8:00 p.m. The motion was seconded by Mr. McDonough.
By a roll call vote of five (5) yes, three (3) no - Mr. Muir, Mr. Witt and Mr. Carson - the motion was carried.
City of Dover & Kent County Voter Registration Merger
Mr. Willis expressed a desire that Council take formal action on the question of a City-County voter registration merger before proceeding with the necessary work.
The Committee recommended approval of the concept of a merger and any necessary expenditures involved.
Mr. Witt moved to approve the concept of the merger to allow the City Clerk to continue with the various phases of work involved. The motion was seconded by Mr. McDonough.
Mr. Witt added that it is understood that approval of the concept of the merger would include any normal expenditures. Council approval would be required for any extraordinary costs incurred.
Mr. Willis stated that although approval of the concept will allow his office to continue with appropriate steps towards finalization of the merger, Council will be required to amend the Charter by a three-quarter vote for presentation to the General Assembly.
A general discussion followed on the changes that would take place in the present requirements of the Charter and Code. It was also mentioned that the County capitation tax might act as a deterrent for possible City registrants. In addition, the practice of the County to request party affiliation might associate City government with partisan politics.
By a roll call vote of four (4) yes, and four (4) no - Mr. Muir, Mr. Hardcastle, Mr. Carey and Mr. Carson - the motion was defeated.
Tax Delinquent Letters
Mr. McDonough reported to the Committee a complaint from a taxpayer who received the initial warning letter of taxes due, mailed by the Assessor’s Office. He suggested that Mr. Hayes develop a softer letter to improve the City’s image to the public.
Mr. McDonough moved that Mr. Hayes change the initial delinquent letter mailed to persons late in their tax payments to incorporate softer overtones and with a provision to pay if financial problems are being experienced. The motion was seconded by Mr. Bewick.
Although he complimented Mr. Hayes on his past performance in tax collections, it was Mr. McDonough’s opinion that the initial letter treats everyone in the same light, regardless of degree of arrears.
Mr. Carson stated that Council should not devise methods for the Assessor to collect taxes when the present procedures used are effective.
Questioned by Mr. Weyandt, it was the Solicitor’s opinion that the letter conforms with legal procedures to collect delinquent taxes.
By a voice call vote, the motion to change the initial letter mailed by the Tax Assessor was defeated.
Methodology of Attracting General Practitioners
Mayor Legates agreed that a letter would be forthcoming from his office to Kent General Hospital, indicating Council’s concern toward the shortage of general practitioners in the area. The letter will offer areas of assistance to further methods of attracting general practitioners.
Proposed Revised Vacation Policy
In reviewing the proposed revised vacation policy, the Committee recommended the following schedule by a vote of two (2) yes, one (1) no.
Reduce the present required number of years in service from 10 to 8 years earning 1½ days per month of vacation. Reduce the present plan from 20 years to 16 years earning 1 3/4 days per month of vacation. The present 20 years of service will remain at 2 days earned per month.
Mr. Witt moved for the recommendation of the Committee, seconded by Mr. McDonough. Mr. Witt stated that the proposed benefits to City employees is for the purpose of at least offering vacation and sick leave that is competitive with local industry and other governmental agencies.
It was Mr. Weyandt’s opinion that comparison information relating to local industry and figures of financial impact should be submitted for Council review before considering the increased benefits.
Mr. Bewick moved to table the matter until Council receives a report as requested by Mr. Weyandt. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hardcastle.
By a roll call vote of six (6) yes, two (2) no - Mr. McDonough and Mr. Witt - the tabling motion was carried.
Mayor Legates thought it advisable to hold Council Workshop Sessions if long and continued discussions are necessary in regards to policies of the City.
Proposed Revised City Manager Vacation Policy
A review of the proposed revised City Manager Vacation Policy resulted in the Committee recommending that the City Manager earn 20 days of vacation for the first five years. After the fifth year 25 days per year will be earned, allowing a carry-over of five days to the following year.
Mr. Witt moved for the recommendation of the Committee, seconded by Mr. Muir.
Mr. Bewick moved to table this matter, until Council receives a report as requested by Mr. Weyandt. The motion was carried by a vote of seven (7) yes, one (1) no - Mr. Witt.
Proposed Revised Sick Leave Policy
It was recommended by the Committee that the City’s sick leave plan be adjusted as follows:
The proposed plan would allow an employee to accumulate up to 300 days, but only 130 days could be applied towards retirement.
Mr. Witt moved for the recommendation of the Committee, seconded by Mr. Muir.
Mr. Bewick moved to table the proposed revised sick leave policy until Council receives a report as requested by Mr. Weyandt. The motion was seconded by Mr. Weyandt and carried by a vote of seven (7) yes, one (1) no - Mr. Witt.
Proposed Revised Educational Assistance Policy
The Committee recommended approval of the proposed revised educational assistance as presented by Mr. Hodge.
Mr. Witt moved for approval of the recommendation of the Committee, seconded by Mr. Muir.
Mr. Weyandt moved to table the above, until Council receives the previously stated report. The motion was seconded by Mr. Carson and carried by a vote of six (6) yes and one (1) no - Mr. Witt.
Mr. Bewick moved for approval of the Legislative and Finance Committee Report as submitted by Mr. Weyandt and carried by a vote of six (6) yes, one (1) no - Mr. Witt.
COUNCIL WORKSHOP SESSIONS - VERSUS INDIVIDUAL COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Mr. McDonough moved to return to full Council Workshop meetings, to be held on the first Monday of each month, with each Committee chairman presiding in their segment of the meeting. The motion was seconded by Mr. Bewick.
Mr. Witt expressed opposition to the motion, stating that each Councilman is assigned a Committee by virtue of the Charter and the Mayor. He did not feel that Workshop Sessions are as effective due to the detailed subject matter that each Committee is required to consider.
Mayor Legates suggested a Special Council Meeting to consider the proposed vacation policy, proposed City Manager vacation policy, proposed sick leave policy and the proposed revised educational assistance policy.
Mr. Witt reminded Council that the Roberts Rules of Order states that a Committee of the Whole meets to discuss specific items and is disbanded after these items are considered.
By a roll call vote of two (2) yes - Mr. McDonough and Mr. Bewick - and six (6) no, the motion to return to full Council Workshop Meeting was defeated.
REPORT - JOINT UTILITY COMMITTEE MEETING
A meeting with the City of Dover and Kent County Utility Committee was held on November 7, 1977 at 7:05 p.m.
A meeting between the two bodies was specifically called to discuss the eventual ownership of sanitary sewer pumping stations built by the City of Dover and connecting directly into the County sewer system and the claim of the City of Dover of an overcharge of $25,000 billed to the City for river water entering the sanitary sewer system through an overflow line.
Mr. Bewick reported a productive meeting and felt that it was the first step in resolving some of the long standing subject matter discussed during the proceedings.
Mr. McDonough moved to accept the final purge as submitted, seconded by Mr. Hardcastle and unanimously carried.
VOTER REGISTRATION PURGE LIST - SECOND REVIEW
The City Clerk presented the final review of the City of Dover Voter Registration Purge. Considering those residents who renewed their registration after official notice, the final purge list contained 991 names.
Mr. Weyandt moved to accept the final purge as submitted, seconded by Mr. Hardcastle and unanimously carried.
APPOINTMENT OF JUDGES - ROBBINS HOSE ELECTION
Mayor Legates submitted the names of Councilman Bewick, Councilman McDonough and City Clerk Willis to officiate as Judges at the annual Robbins Hose Election.
Mr. Hardcastle moved for approval of the appointments, seconded by Mr. Muir and carried by a vote of six (6) yes and one (1) no - Mr. Bewick.
(Due to subsequent commitments, Mayor Legates polled the Council and with approval appointed Mr. Muir, Mr. Witt and City Clerk Willis as Judges of the Robbins Hose Election for 1977.)
DOVER BY-PASS
Mr. Witt stated that a Dover By-Pass seems to have become a forgotten issue and moved to refer the matter to the Legislative and Finance Committee for the purpose of returning to Council with a peoples plan of action to spur future planning by the State governmental agencies. The motion was seconded by Mr. McDonough and carried by a vote of seven (7) yes, one (1) no - Mr. Bewick.
REZONING REQUEST - ANN D. BEHEN AND MARY B. CAMPBELL, EXECUTRIX - RAILROAD AVENUE
A request was received to rezone property on Railroad Avenue, bordered by Division Street and Forrest Street, owned by the Estate of Ann D. Behen - Mary B. Campbell, Executrix. Prior to amending the zoning map and zoning ordinance of the City of Dover, a public hearing is required.
By motion of Mr. Witt, seconded by Mr. Weyandt, Council unanimously adopted the following resolution and referred the request to the Planning Commission.
A RESOLUTION SETTING FORTH TIME AND PLACE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON A PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF DOVER AND DIRECTING THAT NOTICE OF SAID HEARING BE PUBLISHED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE DELAWARE CODE.
WHEREAS, certain lands located on the south side of W. Division Street and the north side of Forest Street are presently zoned for M and C-3 use, and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to hold a public hearing prior to amending the zoning map and zoning ordinance of the City of Dover.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
1. That a public hearing be held in City Hall on January 9, 1978 at 8:00 p.m. on a proposed amendment to the zoning map that would rezone from M and C-3 to C-4 that property located on the south side of W. Division Street and the north side of Forest Street, owned by the Estate of Anne D. Behen (Mary B. Campbell, Executrix).
2. That notice of the public hearing be given in accordance with the provisions of the Delaware Code.
ADOPTED OCTOBER 14, 1977
REZONING REQUEST - JUAN & ANAIS BADIA - SOUTH OF LAFFERTY LANE, EAST SIDE OF RT. #113
A request was received to rezone property located south of Lafferty Lane and the east side of Rt. #113, owned by Juan and Anais Badia. Prior to amending the zoning map and zoning ordinance of the City of Dover, a public hearing is required.
By motion of Mr. Weyandt, seconded by Mr. Witt, Council unanimously adopted the following resolution and referred the request to the Planning Commission.
A RESOLUTION SETTING FORTH TIME AND PLACE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON A PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF DOVER AND DIRECTING THAT NOTICE OF SAID HEARING BE PUBLISHED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE DELAWARE CODE.
WHEREAS, certain lands located south of Lafferty Lane and on the east side of Rt. #113 are presently zoned for R-20 use, and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to hold a public hearing prior to amending the zoning map and zoning ordinance of the City of Dover.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
1. That a public hearing be held in City Hall on January 9, 1978 at 8:00 p.m. on a proposed amendment to the zoning map that would rezone from R-20 to C-4 that property located south of Lafferty Lane and on the east side of Rt. #113, owned by Juan & Anais Badia.
2. That notice of the public hearing be given in accordance with the provisions of the Delaware Code.
ADOPTED OCTOBER 14, 1977
CONGRESSMAN EVANS TO ADDRESS CONRAIL SWITCHING ACTIVITY
Mayor Legates informed Council that a rail trip is planned for November 15th by Congressman Evans and Conrail officials who will stop at Blue Beach Drive and New Burton Road to address area residents with information concerning switching activity.
CORRESPONDENCE
Northeast Regional Ballet Festival
A letter was received from Marion Tracy, President of the Delaware Regional Ballet Company, informing Council that their organization has been invited by the Northeast Regional Ballet Association to host the Northeast Regional Ballet Festival. The festival will be held on May 18, 19 and 20, 1978 and will involve some 29 ballet companies from Canada to Washington and Ohio to Long Island. There will be approximately 450 out of state participants. The letter mentions difficulty in transporting this number of people and requests the use of two Senior Surreys or a grant of $800 from the City to help defray the cost of such transportation.
Mr. Bewick moved to refer this matter to the Legislative and Finance Committee, seconded by Mr. Weyandt and unanimously carried.
Hazards Committee Report
A letter from Mr. Dennis L. Cannon, Transportation Supervisor for the Capital School District, informed Council that the Hazards Committee of the State Board of Education has denied bus transportation for children living east of North Governors Avenue. The letter listed six recommendations to the City of Dover that might assist in avoiding dangers to children walking across State Street and Governors Avenue.
The recommendations included painting crosswalks, erecting signs, police enforcement of the speed limits, and relocating certain speed zones on State Street.
Mr. Witt moved for referral to the Safety Advisory Committee, seconded by Mr. Bewick, and unanimously carried.
Kent County Emergency Food and Fuel Fund Request
A letter was received from Mr. Dale R. Pruett, Co-Chairperson for the Kent County Emergency Food Fuel Fund, requesting a grant of $1,500 from Revenue Sharing Funds to assist in meeting emergency needs.
Mr. Hodge reported that all City of Dover Revenue Sharing Funds have been distributed, however new applications will be received in March of 1978.
Mr. Witt moved for acknowledgment of the letter, informing Mr. Pruett of the above information. The motion was seconded by Mr. Weyandt and unanimously carried.
Request to Build Pier - Capital School District
A letter was received from Mr. Edward W. Goate, Assistant Superintendent of the Capital School District, requesting permission to build a pier on the shore of Silver Lake that will allow students in the Environmental Science Program to obtain water samples. The pier would extend approximately 10' to 12' from the shore line.
Mr. McDonough moved for referral to the Safety Advisory Committee, seconded by Mr. Bewick and unanimously carried.
Annexation Request - J.A. Kennedy - 110 Wyoming Avenue
A request was received from Mrs. J.A. Kennedy of 110 Wyoming Avenue for consideration of Council to annex her property. A request was also received from Dr. James McClements requesting annexation of his property which is contiguous to the Kennedy property.
Mr. Witt moved for referral to the Utility Committee and the Planning Commission. The motion was seconded by Mr. McDonough and unanimously carried.
SOCIAL SECURITY STUDY
Mr. Bewick stated that a bill is being introduced by the General Assembly proposing that the State drop out of the Social Security Program with the idea of the City utilizing present contributions by initiating a special benefits program which would be more beneficial to the City and employees. The motion was seconded by Mr. Weyandt and unanimously carried.
C. DONALD HODGE - APPOINTMENT AS ACTING CITY MANAGER
In discussion, it was the general opinion of Council that legislative action should be taken to appoint C. Donald Hodge as Acting City Manager during the absence of Mr. James although the Assistant City Manager’s job description states that he shall assume the power and responsibilities of the City Manager during such absence.
Mr. McDonough moved that Mr. Hodge be appointed Acting City Manager until such time that Mr. James is fully recovered and able to resume his normal duties. The motion was seconded by Mr. Carey and unanimously carried.
AUDIT REPORT
Mr. Witt moved to refer the 1976-77 audit report to the Legislative and Finance Committee for an in-depth study and for the purpose of arrangements to have the report presented to the entire Council by the auditor. The motion was seconded by Mr. Bewick and unanimously carried.
ENGINEER’S PRESENTATION - DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION PROJECT
Mr. Donald Talley of Mann-Talley Engineers addressed Council on Phase I of the Downtown Revitalization Program which incorporates traffic and signalization. He stated that surveys, traffic counts and a base map have been finalized of nineteen intersections in the downtown area. Changes in traffic flow and signalization will be suggested for thirteen of these intersections.
Mr. Talley expressed the importance of Council’s approval of the concept of proposed traffic and signalization plans, to enable his company to finalize drawings and specifications for printing, advertise for bids, review bids and award the contract. This must be accomplished by December 23, 1977.
Mr. George Ryan, project coordinator and Mr. John Bickle, traffic control engineer, outlined the proposed signalization which would include the capability of protected left turns at Loockerman and State Streets, Loockerman Street & Governors Avenue, Loockerman & New Streets and Loockerman & Queen Streets. In addition, six fire lanes were proposed. All traffic signals may be controlled by a submaster switch board located at Robbins Hose Company.
Council voiced various questions on a protected left turn was based on the original drawing by Kendree and Shepard which specified no parking on the north side of Loockerman Street. The capability of the signalization will be incorporated in the equipment and wiring but Council will have the opportunity to accept or reject the plan.
Mayor Legates re-emphasized the importance of Council’s acceptance of the concept of the signalization and traffic plan to expedite finalization of bid proposals.
Mr. Ted Mercer, Landscape and Architectural Planner, briefly outlined some of his thoughts related to utilizing existing granite curbs and parts of the old sidewalk in crosswalks to implant some of the history of Loockerman Street in the renovation and proposed facelifting of the area around the State Street intersection.
Mr. Al Jenkins, Electrical Consultant, addressed the subject of street lighting, naming the following criteria as items of importance.
1. Lights will be colonial in design 2. Lights will not extend over street 3. Lights to be low post top mounted but high enough to avoid vandalism 4. Finish to be matt black 5. Mercury vapor lamps to be used 6. Incorporate Christmas decoration power supplies 7. Facilities for merchants background music system 8. Incorporate traffic control signals on light standards.
Except for intersections, Mr. Jenkins recommended a single colonial type luminaire mounted on a standard of fourteen (14') feet. The luminaire would be a hidden light source type, incorporating a 250 watt mercury lamp giving a gas light effect.
Mr. Schucker questioned removing the present 400 watt mercury luminaire, stating that the lighting intensity of the proposed luminaire, with a 250 watt lamp, would decrease the lighting in downtown Dover. He proposed that the present lighting remain at all intersections and also in the middle block, interdispersed with similar luminaries as proposed, but the lighting would incorporate 400 watt mercury lamps mounted on eighteen (18') feet posts.
Mr. Jenkins argued that the two lighting styles are not compatible and mixing would ruin the esthetics.
Mr. Schucker offered an alternative of 400 watt mercury lamps, of colonial style, mounted on a post of eighteen (18') feet.
Since there seemed to be a conflict on lighting Mr. Bewick suggested that Council act on the signalization to enable the consultants to proceed with contractural specifications.
Mayor Legates asked that Council consider the concept of a no left turn in the downtown area, momentarily disregarding any ordinance change which can be rejected or accepted at a later date.
Mr. Weyandt moved to approve the concept of the signalization as presented by the consultants, seconded by Mr. Hardcastle and unanimously carried.
Mr. Woods requested a date for a Council Workshop Session sometime after November 28th to explore the concept of Phase II of the Downtown Revitalization Program.
Mr. Witt moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. McDonough and unanimously carried.
Meeting Adjourned at 10:15 P.M.
WILLIAM H. WILLIS
CITY CLERK
All orders, ordinances and resolutions adopted by City Council in their meeting of November 14, 1977, are hereby approved.
CHARLES A. LEGATES, JR.
MAYOR
November 21, 1977
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