REGULAR MEETING
April 25, 1977
The Regular Meeting of Council was held on April 25, 1977 at 7:30 P.M. with Vice-Mayor Muir presiding. Members present were Messrs. McDonough, Weyandt, Hardcastle, Carey, Carson, Witt and Bewick. Mayor Legates was absent.
The invocation was given by the Reverend J.H. Williams, Council Chaplain.
AGENDA ADDITIONS
Item #25
Mr. Bewick requested an additional agenda item #25 to discuss the status of Downtown Dover improvements.
Item #26
Mr. Hardcastle requested an additional agenda item #26 to discuss the Workshop Sessions of Council.
Item #27
Mr. James requested an additional agenda item #27 to discuss a proposal from Mr. Edmund Ault, on the feasibility study of a proposed golf course.
Item #28
Mr. James requested an additional agenda item #28 to discuss a request from the Kent County Soccer Club to utilize City property for a League.
Item #29
Mr. James requested an additional agenda item #29 for the purpose of an Executive Session to discuss pending litigation. Vice-Mayor Muir stated that the Executive Session could be held during the time that the tape is being changed, since there was no objections voiced from Council.
VACATION REQUEST
Mr. Willis requested vacation for April 27th, 28th and 29th. Council voiced no objections to the request.
MINUTES
Vice-Mayor Muir reported to Council a letter received from the City Clerk in reference to corrections made in the Council Minutes of April 11, 1977 to the Council Minutes of March 28, 1977. The City Clerk monitored the tape recording of the Council Meeting of March 28, 1977 and found the Minutes to be correct as originally written.
Based on the above information, Mr. Witt moved to rescind the corrections made in the Council Meeting Minutes of April 11, 1977 to the March 28, 1977 Minutes. The motion was seconded by Mr. Bewick and unanimously carried.
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of April 11, 1977 were unanimously approved by motion of Mr. Bewick, seconded by Mr. Hardcastle and bore the written approval of Vice-Mayor Muir.
PINE GROVE FARMS PARKLAND - JUDGE DAVID P. BUCKSON
Since Judge Buckson was not present at the time of discussion, Mr. Bewick moved to table action until the next Regular Council Meeting. The motion was seconded by Mr. Weyandt and unanimously carried.
SCHOOL TRASH COLLECTION - DR. EDWARD POWELL
Dr. Edward Powell was present to request that Council waive an ordinance which limits the quantity of trash pick up by the City, for the Capital School District.
Mr. James explained that there is a City ordinance limiting trash collection to two cubic yards per pick up, and that the School District exceeds that limit. Dr. Powell was notified that the City would no longer pick up the excess trash from the schools without an additional charge. Picking up additional trash is a burden, since the City now has to pay the County for dumping at the County’s landfill. Therefore, the City is forced to charge for trash pickups in excess of the limit, as provided for the City ordinance.
It was Dr. Powell’s opinion that the citizens of Dover are presently paying taxes which should cover trash pickup and felt it unfair to ask for additional monies for this purpose.
Mr. Bewick moved to refer this matter to the Utility Committee and that the City Manager prepare a report for the Committee for their study. The motion was seconded by Mr. Weyandt and unanimously carried.
PROCLAMATION - KIWANIS CLUB PEANUT SALE DAY
On motion by Mr. Witt, seconded by Mr. Weyandt, Council unanimously approved the following Proclamation. A representative of Dover Kiwanis Club was present to accept the Proclamation and pictures were taken of the presentation.
WHEREAS, a community-wide Peanut Sale to raise funds for youth activities in Dover will be held May 21, 1977 by the Kiwanis Club of Dover, and
WHEREAS, the Kiwanis Peanut Sale began in Chicago in 1951 with eight clubs participating and is now a nation-wide event with more than 475 Kiwanis Clubs raising funds to support local Kiwanis projects, and
WHEREAS, the proceeds from the Dover Kiwanis Club Peanut Sale will support the following local projects:
Scholarship for underprivileged camper to Camp Barnes
Scholarship for underprivileged camper to YMCA
Sponsorship of Kiwanis Saturday Morning Basketball Clinic
Sponsorship of Annual Halloween Parade
Support of Muscular Dystrophy Skatathon
WHEREAS, volunteers will become peanut vendors on street corners throughout Dover on May 21st in an attempt to raise $1,500. The bags of peanuts will actually be “given away” to passersby for any donation they care to give.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, CHARLES A. LEGATES, JR. MAYOR OF THE CITY OF DOVER, do hereby proclaim May 21, 1977 as DOVER KIWANIS CLUB PEANUT SALE DAY and urge all citizens to be aware that every donation for a bag of peanuts will be bringing new hope to many, many children in Dover.
PROCLAMATION - DELAWARE DISADVANTAGED WEEK
On motion by Mr. Hardcastle, seconded by Mr. Weyandt, Council unanimously approved the following Proclamation.
WHEREAS, recognizing the importance of engaging in charitable work in all aspects of out modern society, many charitable organizations have been formed to combat disadvantaged persons; and
WHEREAS, it is important to the life of the City, of all parts of our State and County, be well versed and that they be able to continue in our expedient life pattern; and
NOW, THEREFORE, I, CHARLES A. LEGATES, JR., MAYOR OF THE CITY OF DOVER, do hereby proclaim April 24-30, 1977 as “DELAWARE DISADVANTAGED FOUNDATION WEEK” in Dover, and do urge all citizens to consider how vital the effectiveness of walking tall in a constituting manner, and do recommend that those who are dubious of life’s guidelines be recognized by D.D.F. in increasing their knowledge in this very important organization,
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hands and caused the Great Seal of the City of Dover this 25th day of April in the year of our Lord, one thousand nine hundred and seventy seven.
PINE GROVE FARMS PARKLAND - DAVID P. BUCKSON
Judge David Buckson was present and requested that Council remove the subject of the parkland in Pine Grove Farms off of the table for discussion. Mr. Weyandt moved to remove this matter from the table, seconded by Mr. Witt and unanimously carried.
Judge Buckson explained to Council a drainage problem which is being incurred by the owners of Pine Grove Farms. The drainage flows onto property which is not in the City limits and the owners are negotiating to purchase an easement along this property. However, because of this drainage problem only 19 lots, or one-fourth of the development, has been approved for development.
The original agreement was to pay the City $10,000 for parkland. Since only one-fourth of the development has been approved, due to drainage problems, Judge Buckson requested that the owners pay only a percentage of the $10,000, based on the percentage of lots approved for development.
Mr. Weyandt suggested that the owners of Pine Grove Farms be required to pay a percentage of the total amount agreed upon, based on the approval of the lots for development.
It was Mr. McDonough’s opinion that the owners of the development were aware of the drainage problems upon purchase of the property and should bear the responsibility of this problem. Mr. McDonough stated that this has never been done in the past and was skeptical of setting a precedent.
Mr. Witt moved that the owners of Pine Grove Farms be required to pay one-forth of the amount agreed upon in lieu of parkland for each of the four sections, with each quarter to be payable in advance, after the approval of each section.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Weyandt and approved by a roll call vote of four (4) yes, three (3) no, Mr. McDonough, Mr. Carson and Mr. Bewick.
RESOLUTION - WATER STREET YOUTH CENTER
Due to over-population of prison facilities, Mr. McDonough felt that the State of Delaware will be forced to use this facility as an adult correction center, therefore, felt it would be wiser to request limited uses of the correction facility.
Mr. Witt was of the opinion that a large majority of City residents were opposed to any use of the facility and therefore, the duty of Council to stand behind the wishes of Dover citizens.
Mr. Weyandt reasoned that any forceful opposition by Council could end in the State requesting the City to furnish their own prison facilities. He suggested that Council request limited use of the Center with ultimate elimination of same.
On motion by Mr. Witt, seconded by Mr. Bewick, Council by a roll call vote of five (5) yes and one (1) no, Mr. McDonough and Mr. Hardcastle not voting, adopted the following resolution.
WHEREAS, House Bill #120, introduced by Representative Bennett, transferring the Water Street Youth Center to the County for $1.00, has passed the House by a 23 to 14 vote; and
WHEREAS, a large amount of economic development has taken place in the particular area where said Youth Center is now located; and
WHEREAS, the citizens of the City of Dover have continued to protest and petition for other uses for this facility.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
1. That the Mayor and Council of the City of Dover, recommend that the Senate Committee immediately release House Bill #120 and call for a vote on the Senate floor for this bill, noting that the Mayor and Council urge a vote of approval.
ADOPTED APRIL 25, 1977
RESOLUTION - LITTER CONTROL
On motion by Mr. Bewick, seconded by Mr. Witt, Council by a unanimous roll call vote, adopted the following resolution.
WHEREAS, the indiscriminate dropping, throwing and disposal of litter, garbage and other debris throughout the City of Dover has become a serious problem and affects the health and welfare of the citizens of the City of Dover; and
WHEREAS, the collection and disposal of such litter, debris and other garbage has caused the City of Dover to incur substantial expenses; and
WHEREAS, the City of Dover understands that the State of Delaware, through the General Assembly is considering the passage of statutory requirements enforcing penalties for the indiscriminate dropping and throwing of litter, debris and garbage; and
WHEREAS, the City of Dover wishes to inform the General Assembly that the Mayor and Council are in favor of the passage of such legislation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
1. That the Mayor and Council of the City of Dover wish to go on record as favoring the passage of anti-litter legislation prohibiting the indiscriminate throwing and dropping of litter, garbage and other debris.
2. That the Mayor and Council of the City of Dove hereby authorize the City Manager to deliver this Resolution to the members of the General Assembly and/or other responsible persons to indicate the intent of the City of Dover regarding such anti-litter legislation.
ADOPTED APRIL 25, 1977
MONTHLY REPORTS
Chief of Police Report for the Month of March
The Chief of Police Report for the Month of March was unanimously accepted by motion of Mr. Bewick, seconded by Mr. Weyandt.
Building Inspector & Fire Marshal Report for the Month of March
The Building Inspector and Fire Marshal Report for the Month of March was unanimously accepted by motion of Mr. Hardcastle, seconded by Mr. Weyandt.
City Planner Report for the Month of March
The City Planner Report for the Month of March was unanimously accepted by motion of Mr. Witt, seconded by Mr. Bewick.
City Alderman Report for the Month of March
The City Alderman Report for the Month of March was unanimously accepted by motion of Mr. McDonough, seconded by Mr. Bewick. Total fines remitted - $1,916
General Fund, Cash Receipts Report for the Month of March
The General Fund, Cash Receipts Report for the Month of March was unanimously accepted by motion of Mr. Witt, seconded by Mr. Weyandt.
General Fund, Budget Report for the Month of February
The General Fund, Budget Report for the Month of February was unanimously accepted by motion of Mr. Weyandt, seconded by Mr. Bewick.
Electric Revenue Fund, Cash Receipts Report for the Month of March
The Electric Revenue Fund, Cash Receipts Report for the Month of March was unanimously accepted by motion of Mr. Witt, seconded by Mr. Bewick.
Electric Revenue, Budget Report for the Month of February
Electric Revenue, Budget Report for the Month of February was unanimously accepted by motion of Mr. McDonough, seconded by Mr. Weyandt.
Electric Improvement Fund, Cash Receipts & Disbursements Report - March
The Electric Improvement Fund, Cash Receipts and Disbursements Report for the Month of March was unanimously accepted by motion of Mr. McDonough, seconded by Mr. Bewick.
Library Fund, Cash Receipts & Disbursements Report - March
Questioned by Mr. McDonough, Mr. James reported conversations with the Library Commission concerning expansion. Although he would not recommend such a move at this time, since the City does not own the Library, Mr. James advised the Commission to present a plan and cash figure for his review and possible inclusion in the Capital Expenditure Budget.
Mr. McDonough moved for acceptance of the report, seconded by Mr. Weyandt and unanimously carried.
City Manager’s Report for the Month of March
Mr. Witt moved for acceptance of the City Manager’s Report, seconded by Mr. Bewick and unanimously carried.
J.P. COURT #7 REPORT - MARCH
A check was received from J.P. Court #7 for the Month of March in the amount of $6,166.80. As a result of an audit of the Court’s records, Mr. Willis reported $32,723.20 in deferred payments as of March 31, 1977.
On motion of Mr. Witt, seconded by Mr. Bewick, Council unanimously accepted the report as submitted.
ANNEXATION REFERENDUM RESULTS - PETERSEIL TRACT
The City Clerk read the results of the referendum of the Peterseil Tract as certified by the County Election Officials, said certifications being on file in the Office of the City Clerk. The results were as follows: Annexation - Peterseil Tract FOR ANNEXATION 1
AGAINST ANNEXATION 0
Mr. Nick Brown, representing Mr. Osias Peterseil, was present to address Council. He reminded Council that Mr. Peterseil has also requested rezoning of this property from RSPUD to C-1A and RM-1. Planning Commission recommended that Council rezone this property to the RM-1 zoning only.
At the time of the Planning Commission meeting, Mr. Brown felt that the Rm-1 zoning would be acceptable to Mr. Peterseil and that the owner could re-apply for the C-1A zoning at a later date. However, Mr. Peterseil took exception to the above, and requested that the property not be annexed if the rezoning was not approved as submitted.
The Planning Commission took exception to the C-1A zoning due to traffic congestion at the point of access and exit from the commercial site.
It was Mr. Brown’s request that Council consider both the annexation and the rezoning together as one action of Council.
Mr. McDonough suggested that the rezoning request be re-submitted to the Planning Commission for further study on the requested zoning.
Based on the above suggestion, Mr. Bewick moved to table action on the annexation. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hardcastle and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
PUBLIC HEARING - REZONING OF PETERSEIL TRACT
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider the rezoning of a tract of land located on the southeast corner of Road #100 and Road #156, owned by Helene and Osias Peterseil. Vice-Mayor Muir declared the hearing open.
Judge William Bush, adjoining property owner, expressed concern over the traffic flow on Route #100 and also was concerned with the drainage on this parcel of land.
Mr. Roe informed Council that the drainage would have to be approved by the City before final approval would be given for development.
Judge Bush stated that he had no objections to the proposal, but wished to express to Council his concern over situations which could arise if not planned properly.
Mr. David Perman spoke before Council, voicing his objections to annexation of this property. He informed Council of a plant in the neighborhood in question, which emits a very bad odor and would be a nuisance to the residential neighborhood which is planned on this tract of land.
Since the plant is not in the City limits, the City of Dover would have no control over the odor.
Based on the motion to table annexation, Council took no formal action on the rezoning request.
PUBLIC HEARING - WEBBS LANE - FIRST STATE DEVELOPMENT
A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider rezoning of a parcel of land on Webbs Lane, owned by First State Development Company, Inc.
The City Clerk reported a letter to Council requesting postponement of this hearing until the Council Meeting of May 23, 1977. The postponement is requested to allow time for resolving of legal matters.
Mr. Witt moved to postpone the public hearing until the Council Meeting of May 23, 1977 and that notice of the hearing be advertised. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hardcastle and unanimously carried.
SET PUBLIC HEARING - SPEED LIMIT ON NORTH GOVERNORS AVENUE
Mr. Witt moved to set a public hearing for May 23, 1977 at 8:00 P.M. to consider the adoption of an ordinance which would change the speed limit on North Governors Avenue from William Street to Walker Road. The motion was seconded by Mr. Carey and unanimously carried.
DEED - PARKLAND - FOXHALL PLANTATION
Mr. James presented to Council a deed for the parkland in Foxhall Plantation. All requirements have been met, therefore, the City Manager requested that Council accept the deed.
On motion by Mr. Hardcastle, seconded by Mr. McDonough, Council unanimously accepted the deed.
SET PUBLIC HEARING FOR GENERAL FUND BUDGET AND ELECTRIC FUND BUDGET
Mr. James requested that Council set a public hearing for the adoption of the General Fund Budget. Mr. James explained that in order to comply with the Revenue Sharing Act, it is necessary to hold two public hearings on any budget involving the expenditure of Revenue Sharing Funds. Since the General Fund does involve expenditures of revenue sharing, Mr. James requested that two public hearings be set for this purpose.
Mr. Witt moved to set the requested public hearings for May 23, 1977 and June 13, 1977 at 8:00 P.M. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hardcastle and unanimously carried.
Mr. McDonough moved to set the public hearing for the adoption of the Electric Fund Budget for June 13, 1977 at 8:00 P.M., seconded by Mr. Weyandt and unanimously carried.
SALE OF SURPLUS CITY PROPERTY
Mr. James requested that Council give blanket approval to the City Manager to hold public auctions to dispose of surplus City property. Mr. James explained that the Police Department was given similar approval some time ago.
Mr. Weyandt moved to give blanket approval to the City Manager to hold public auctions to dispose of surplus City property, seconded by Mr. Hardcastle and unanimously carried.
RESOLUTION - M.H. FISHMAN COMPANY (MASONS DEPARTMENT STORE)
Because of bankruptcy of the Masons Department Store, the City is in possession of 158 shares of stock of M.H. Fishman Co., Inc., in payment of an electric bill of Masons.
Mr. James requested that the following resolution be adopted to grant authority to the City Manager to sell, transfer and convey any stock, bonds, debentures or other evidences of indebtedness given unto the City of Dover in payment of bills.
On motion by Mr. Weyandt, seconded by Mr. Hardcastle, Council adopted the following resolution by a unanimous roll call vote.
WHEREAS, the City of Dover has received in payment of an electric bill 158 shares of stock of M.H. Fishman Co., Inc.; and
WHEREAS, it is necessary and desirable for the City of Dover to sell this stock and to convert the same into cash so that the same can be applied towards said bill; and
WHEREAS, the City of Dover frequently in the past has received stocks and other indentures from other corporations in payment of bills which also were required to be transferred and sold and converted into cash; and
WHEREAS, it is anticipated that in the future similar transactions will occur; and
WHEREAS, Council desires to give the City Manager blanket authority to sell such stock indentures, bonds or other obligations forwarded to the City of Dover in payment of any bills so that the same can be converted into cash.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
1. That the Mayor and Council of the City of Dover deem it desirable and necessary to grant unto the City Manager authority on behalf of the City of Dover to sell, transfer and convey and to execute all documents necessary to sell, transfer and convey any stock, bonds, debentures or other evidences of indebtedness given unto the City of Dover in payment of any bills so that the same can be converted into cash and utilized by the City of Dover.
2. That the Mayor and Council of the City of Dover hereby give the City Manager such authority so that he can execute all documents necessary to transfer said instruments as aforesaid and convert the same into cash.
ADOPTED APRIL 25, 1977
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Council recessed for a short executive session to discuss pending litigation.
SOLICIT AUDIT PROPOSALS
Mr. James submitted to Council proposed guidelines for Audit proposals for the City.
Mr. McDonough moved to refer the guidelines for audit proposals to the Legislative and Finance Committee for their study. The motion was seconded by Mr. Weyandt and unanimously carried.
SPECIAL DUES ASSESSMENT - LEAGUE OF LOCAL GOVERNMENTS
The Delaware League of Local Governments has recently changed their dues structure. Mr. James explained that the City of Dover is presently paying $3,500 per year in membership dues to the League. Under the new structure, the City of Dover would be required to pay $5,000, or an additional $1,500. The increased dues was contributed to the high costs of operating and additional benefits offered to members.
Mr. Hardcastle moved to authorize payment of an additional $1,500 in dues this year and $5,000 annual dues for every year thereafter. The motion was seconded by Mr. Witt and unanimously carried.
COUNCIL MEMBERS - LIABILITY INSURANCE
By request of Council, the City Manager reported his findings on liability insurance for Council.
The National league of Cities, in conjunction with the International City Manager’s Association, has negotiated with an insurance company to offer this type of insurance and is offered at a much lower premium than through a regular insurance company.
Mr. Bewick moved to refer this matter to the Legislative and Finance Committee, seconded by Mr. McDonough and unanimously carried.
DELAWARE TELESERVICE - RATE INCREASE
The Delaware Teleservice Company has requested a rate increase to become effective August 1, 1977.
Pursuant to requirements of the Federal Communications Commission, it will be necessary that Council set a public hearing after 15 days of the request and advertise same. If 90 days expire with no action, the rates automatically become effective.
Delaware Teleservice is requesting a 5% rate increase. The new monthly rate would be $6.55 for basic service, compared to the current rate of $6.25, plus 30¢ Delaware State tax, for a total charge of $6.85 per month. The one-time-only installation charge is to be raised from $20 to $25.
Mr. Witt moved to set a public hearing at 8:00 P.M. on May 9, 1977, seconded by Mr. Hardcastle and unanimously carried.
Mr. Bewick requested that Delaware Teleservice, in their presentation, outline the rate structure of other companies in adjacent areas.
SCHOOL BUS SHELTERS
Mr. Bewick requested that the City Planner make a study on school bus shelters in the City, to the determine the amount of unused shelters at present for the purpose of elimination.
Mr. Roe consented to furnishing this information, but informed Council that all shelters exist at this time under a non-conforming use, since they were in place prior to adoption of the zoning ordinance. The use expires after 20 years.
CHANGE OF ELECTION DATE
Mr. McDonough moved that a public hearing be set for May 9, 1977 at 8:00 P.M. to consider the adoption of an ordinance which would change the date of the Municipal Election from the third Monday in January to the first Monday in May, with other necessary related amendments to the Charter and Code.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Bewick and unanimously carried.
KENT COUNTY LODGE OF THE F.O.P. - TRUCKLOAD SALE
A request was received from the Kent County Lodge of the F.O.P. to hold a truckload sale on May 13 and 14, 1977. The sale will be held on lands formerly occupied by Robino Trailer Sales on Route #113 and north of Bay Court Plaza.
Mr. Bewick moved for the approval of the request, seconded by Mr. Witt and unanimously carried.
REZONING REQUEST - 595 NORTH DUPONT HIGHWAY - IDA V. KEMP
A request was received to rezone property at 595 North DuPont Highway, owned by Ida V. Kemp. Prior to amending the zoning ordinance and zoning map of the City of Dover, a public hearing is required.
On motion by Mr. Bewick, seconded by Mr. Hardcastle, Council 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 at 595 North DuPont Highway are presently zoned for R-8 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 May 23, 1977 at 8:00 P.M. on a proposed amendment to the zoning map that would rezone from R-8 to C-4 that property located at 595 North DuPont Highway, owned by Ida V. Kemp.
2. That notice of the public hearing be given in accordance with the provisions of the Delaware Code.
ADOPTED APRIL 25, 1977
FIREMEN’S CONVENTION - TERMINATION POINT
Mr. Hardcastle informed Council that the Capital School District has given permission for the Firemen’s Convention to terminate their parade at the William Henry School.
DOWNTOWN DOVER REVITALIZATION UPDATE
By request of Mr. Bewick, the City Manager reported that our request for funds for revitalization of Downtown Dover are still being considered by the EDA. Mr. James has been led to believe that all fund requests that are presently filed will be granted before any additional applications are accepted.
It is also Mr. James’ understanding that Delaware’s allocation, under the new Bill, will go from Four Million Dollars to Ten Million Dollars.
Mr. James will report any progress on this subject to Council as well as to the Downtown Merchants.
WORKSHOP SESSIONS
Mr. Hardcastle felt that Council should discontinue their monthly Workshop Sessions and revert back to their previous method of holding Committee meetings.
It was Mr. Hardcastle’s feeling that the Workshop Sessions do not allow for proper public input because there is no set time for a particular meeting to start. Therefore, a citizen may have to wait a considerable amount of time for an item of their interest to be discussed.
With the summer months approaching, and requests increasing, Mr. Hardcastle felt that the Workshop Sessions would become unbearably long.
Mr. McDonough felt that the Workshop Sessions are an advantage, both to the public and to Council, as all Committees meet on one night, rather than on four different dates and possibly different times and locations.
Mr. Bewick voiced his approval of the Workshop Sessions, as they allow for more Council input.
Although Mr. Weyandt enjoyed the Workshop Sessions, which served to enlighten him on decisions made in each Committee, he felt that it was a certain degree of inconvenience to the public.
Mr. Hardcastle moved to abolish the present Workshop Sessions and permit each Committee to meet separately. The motion was seconded by Mr. Witt and carried by a roll call vote of four (4) yes, three (3) no, Mr. McDonough, Mr. Weyandt and Mr. Bewick.
FEASIBILITY STUDY - EDMUND AULT
By request of Council, Mr. James submitted a proposal from Edmund Ault in the amount of $485 to cover the following services:
1. Update Huebner Farm golf course plan feasibility study.
2. Feasibility study on the nine hole Dover Country Club Golf Course as it exists.
3. Feasibility study on an additional nine holes at Dover Country Club, which would make it an 18 hole golf course.
Each of the feasibility studies will be made in detail for a total price of $485. It is the City Manager’s recommendation that Council authorize approval of the feasibility studies.
Mr. Witt moved for authorization of the $485 expenditure to cover the cost of a feasibility study as proposed. The motion was seconded by Mr. Hardcastle and unanimously carried.
KENT COUNTY SOCCER CLUB
Mr. James relayed to Council a request received from the Kent County Soccer Club for permission to lay out, build and use a Soccer field on City property which is located west of the ballpark on Dover and New Streets.
As there would be no cost to the City, it was the recommendation of the Recreational Director that this request be approved.
Mr. Witt moved that the City Manager be authorized to grant this request, seconded by Mr. Bewick and unanimously carried.
Meeting Adjourned At 10:35 P.M.
WILLIAM H. WILLIS
CITY CLERK
All orders, ordinances and resolutions adopted by City Council in their meeting of April 25, 1977, are hereby approved.
JAMES P. MUIR
VICE-MAYOR
May 2, 1977
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