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CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, July 25, 2022 at 6:30 PM
City Hall Council Chambers, 15 Loockerman Plaza, Dover, Delaware
AGENDA
VIRTUAL MEETING NOTICE
This meeting will be held in the City Hall Council Chambers with electronic access via WebEx.
Public participation information is as follows:
Dial: 1-650-479-3208
Link: https://rb.gy/temkxy
Event number: 2541 914 0124
Event password: DOVER (if needed)
If you are new to WebEx, get the app now at www.webex.com/ to be ready when the meeting starts.
The meeting can also be viewed on Comcast Channel 14, Verizon Channel 20, and on the City's
Streaming Player located at www.cityofdover.com under "Quick Links".
INVOCATION - Elder Ellis B. Louden
OPEN FORUM - 15 Minutes Prior to Official Meeting (6:15 p.m.)
The “Open Forum” segment is provided to extend the opportunity to the general public to share their
questions, thoughts, comments, concerns, and complaints. Discussion of any item appearing on the
agenda as a public hearing is prohibited during the Open Forum as an opportunity will be provided during
consideration of that item. Citizen comments are limited to three (3) minutes. Council is prohibited from
taking action since they are not in official session; however, they may schedule such items as regular
agenda items and act upon them in the future.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Councilman David Anderson
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
ADOPTION OF CONSENT AGENDA
All Consent Agenda items are considered routine and non-controversial and will be acted upon by a single
roll call vote of the Council. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a member of
Council so requests, in which event the matter shall be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
a separate item.
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REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - July 25, 2022 PAGE 2
PRESENTATIONS
1. Certificate of Recognition - National Disability Independence Day
2. Certificate of Appreciation - Purple Heart Day
3. Help Initiative, Inc
4. Transforming Downtown Dover by Mosaic Consulting
CONSENT AGENDA
ADOPTION OF MINUTES
5. Regular City Council Meeting of July 11, 2022
COMMITTEE REPORTS
6. Council Committee of the Whole Report of July 12, 2022
Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement
7. Presentation of Meeting House Branch Drainage Improvement Project
(Committee Action Not Required)
8. NCALL Donation of 7,176 square feet of 235 North Kirkwood Street to the City of
Dover (David S. Hugg, III, City Manager)
(Committee Recommendation: Approve acceptance of donation of 7,176 square feet
of 235 North Kirkwood Street to the City of Dover.)
Mayor and Council Reports
9. Council President Sudler
10. First District
11. Second District
12. Third District
13. Fourth District
14. At-Large District
15. Mayor Christiansen
Utility Committee
16. Engineering Support - Water Street & South Governors Avenue (Jason Lyon,
Director Water Wastewater)
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REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - July 25, 2022 PAGE 3
(Committee Recommendation: Authorizing additional engineering design support to
the Office of Management and Budget, Division of Facilities Management, to increase
stormwater storage in the amount of $16,500.)
Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee
17. Evaluation of Bids - Garrison Oak Technology & Business Park (GOTBP) Substation
Switchgear (Shawn Burgett, Engineering Services and System Operations
Superintendent, Electric Department)
(Committee Recommendation - Awarding contract #22-0036EL to Siemens.)
18. Proposed Budget Amendment to the 2019 CDBG Action Plan with the special
allocation authorized by the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security Act
(CARES Act)
(Committee Recommendation: Approval of the Proposed Budget Amendment
totaling $91, 931 for Fiscal Year 2019)
19. Consideration of School Resource Officers (SRO) requests (Chief Thomas Johnson,
Dover Police Department)
(Committee Recommendation: Approval of School Resource Officer Requests,
contingent on funding from requester.)
20. Engineering services required to complete the Meeting House Branch Drainage
Improvement Project design (Sole Vendor) (Mark Nowak, Public Works Director)
(Committee Recommendation: To Use AECOM (Sole Vendor) for engineering
services required to complete the Meeting House Branch Drainage Improvement
Project design.)
21. Adjustment to Police Promotion Process (Mayor Christiansen and Chief Johnson)
(Committee recommendation: Approve the revised table as requested for Fiscal Year
2024, with the possibility if funds are available to implement sooner.)
QUARTERLY REPORTS
22. Quarterly Revenue Report as of June 30, 2022
APPOINTMENTS (REAPPOINTMENTS) - RECOMMENDED BY CITY COUNCIL
23. Building Inspector - Mary Ellen Gray - One-Year Term to Expire May 2023
APPOINTMENTS (REAPPOINTMENTS) - RECOMMENDED BY MAYOR
CHRISTIANSEN
24. Ethics Commission - Lisa Enright - Five-Year Term to Expire July 2027
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REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - July 25, 2022 PAGE 4
ITEMS NOT ON THE CONSENT AGENDA
ORDINANCES
FINAL READING - The First Reading of the Proposed Ordinance was accomplished during the
Council Meeting of July 11, 2022. The ordinance is available at the entrance of the Council Chambers
and on the City's website at www.cityofdover.com under "Government."
25. Ordinance #2022-07 - Amending Chapter 2 - Administration, Article II. City Council,
Section 2-201 Compensation and expenses for mayor, council, and other elected or
appointed officials.
CITY MANAGER’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
COUNCIL MEMBERS’ ANNOUNCEMENTS
ADJOURNMENT
THE AGENDA ITEMS AS LISTED MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED IN SEQUENCE. PURSUANT TO
29 DEL. C. §10004(e)(2), THIS AGENDA IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE TO INCLUDE THE ADDITION
OR THE DELETION OF ITEMS, INCLUDING EXECUTIVE SESSIONS, WHICH ARISE AT THE
TIME OF THE MEETING
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Item #1.
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Item #2.
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Item #5.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular City Council Meeting was held on July 11, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. with Council President
Sudler presiding. Council members present were Mr. Neil, Dr. Pillsbury (via WebEx), Mr. Rocha,
Mr. Hare, and Ms. Arndt. Mr. Anderson, Mr. Boggerty, and Mr. Taylor were absent.
Staff members present were Police Chief Johnson, Ms. Peddicord, Mr. Hugg, Ms. Melson-
Williams, Mr. Rodriguez, and Ms. Bennett. Mayor Christiansen was present.
OPEN FORUM
The Open Forum was held at 6:15 p.m., prior to the commencement of the Official Council
Meeting. Council President Sudler declared the Open Forum in session and reminded those present
that Council was not in official session and could not take formal action.
Hasan Kelly, 16507 Governor Bridge Road, Apt. 1010, Bowie, Maryland, spoke to Council about
concerns and his efforts to clean up the City of Dover.
Bobby Wilson, 32 West Loockerman Street, Suite 101-D, Dover, Delaware 19901, spoke to
Council about an incident that happened downtown. He explained there is a gentleman that has
been terrorizing the downtown community. He further explained that he believes the person has
mental health issues and is worried it could escalate and turn into a much worse situation.
Mr. Wilson also inquired about the Dover Human Relations Commission and the Economic
Development Committee. Mr. Wilson then suggested that Dover Police Department have young
people from crime-affected areas on the Police Chief's Advisory Committee.
INVOCATION
The invocation was given by Mayor Christiansen
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Council President Sudler
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Hare, and unanimously carried.
ADOPTION OF CONSENT AGENDA
All Consent Agenda items are considered routine and non-controversial and will be acted upon by
a single roll call vote of the Council. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a
member of Council so requests, in which event the matter shall be removed from the Consent
Agenda and considered a separate item.
Ms. Arndt stated that the minutes from the June 28, 2022, Council Committee of the Whole
meeting had her as marked present. She would like them to be corrected showing that she was
absent.
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Item #5.
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the consent agenda, seconded by Mr. Rocha, and carried by
a unanimous roll call vote.
Ms. Arndt requested the minutes from the June 28, 2022, Council Committee of the Whole meeting
be corrected to reflect her not being present.
Mr. Hare moved for adoption of the agenda as amended to reflect Ms. Arndt’s absence from
the Council Committee of the Whole meeting held on June 28, 2022, seconded by Mr. Neil,
and unanimously carried.
PRESENTATION – 50-Year Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve - Above and
Beyond Award
President Sudler invited all City Council members who served to join Mayor Christiansen at the
podium to accept the Above and Beyond Award. This award is presented to the City of Dover on
behalf of the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve Forces, for their outstanding
service and continuing support to the National Defense. Mayor Christiansen thanked all the
departments within the City of Dover.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 27, 2022
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of June 27, 2022, were unanimously approved
by motion of Mr. Neil, seconded by Mr. Rocha, and bore the written approval of
Mayor Christiansen.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
The Council Committee of the Whole met on June 28, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. with
Council President Sudler presiding. Members of Council present were Mr.
Anderson, Mr. Boggerty, Mr. Neil, Dr. Pillsbury, Mr. Rocha, Mr. Taylor, and Mr.
Hare. Ms. Arndt was absent. Mayor Christiansen was also present. Civilian
members present for their committee meetings were Ms. Jackson (Safety, Advisory,
and Transportation), Mr. Shelton (Utility), Mr. Contant, and Mr. Shevock
(Legislative, Finance, and Administration). Mr. Hosfelt (Safety, Advisory, and
Transportation), and McCutcheon (Utility) were absent.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Boggerty.
Mr. Anderson moved to amend the Legislative, Finance, and Administration
Committee Agenda to add an Update on Wages.
Mr. Taylor moved to defer Item #1 on the Safety, Advisory, and
Transportation Committee Request for Waiver - Appendix A - Subdivisions,
Article VI - Subdivision - General Requirements and Design Standards,
Section A - Streets (Right-of-Way known as Raymond Street and Railroad
Avenue) - Waiver of Requirements for the Reduction of the Minimum Street
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Item #5.
Right-of-Way Width, Increase in Maximum Length of a Dead-End Street
(Cul-de-Sac), and the Elimination of Sidewalk on One Side of a Public Street
associated with a Site Development Plan for the improvements to the rights-
of-way of Raymond Street and Railroad Avenue to allow for further
development of the properties that these streets will give access. (Dawn
Melson-Williams, Interim City Planner) until the July 26, 2022, Safety,
Advisory, and Transportation Committee Meeting.
Mr. Anderson moved to amend the Legislative, Finance, and Administration
Committee Agenda to add an Update on Wages and to defer Item #1 on the
Safety, Advisory, and Transportation Committee Request for Waiver -
Appendix A - Subdivisions, Article VI - Subdivision - General Requirements
and Design Standards, Section A - Streets (Right-of-Way known as Raymond
Street and Railroad Avenue) - Waiver of Requirements for the Reduction of
the Minimum Street Right-of-Way Width, Increase in Maximum Length of a
Dead-End Street (Cul-de-Sac), and the Elimination of Sidewalk on One Side
of a Public Street associated with a Site Development Plan for the
improvements to the rights-of-way of Raymond Street and Railroad Avenue
to allow for further development of the properties that these streets will give
access. (Dawn Melson-Williams, Interim City Planner) until the July 26, 2022,
Safety, Advisory, and Transportation Committee Meeting the motion was
seconded by Mr. Rocha.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Ms. Dawn Melson-Williams, Interim City
Planner, stated the applicant's representative regarding the request for subdivision
waiver, planning site plan item S 2204. Ms. Melson-Williams explained the
planning office received a phone call from the project engineer between 8:30 and
9:00 this morning, advising that their client had some type of emergency that was
to take them out of town and would not be available to participate in this evening's
meeting. Ms. Melson-Williams advised them to reach out to the City Clerk's office,
and they did so this morning.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Ms. Melson-Williams stated the project
engineer did not identify what the emergency was. Ms. Melson-Williams explained
from the correspondence and conversations her office has had with the project team,
that the property owner is involved and wanted to participate and move the project
along.
Mayor Christiansen called for a point of personal privilege; he asked the members
of the audience to raise their hands if they had come to speak on Item #1 Request
for Waiver.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Ms. Melson-Williams explained the project team was in
contact and had an onsite meeting with the individuals that spoke at the last Safety,
Advisory, and Transportation meeting. Ms. Melson-Williams stated that included
in the packet is a report on that outreach effort and a series of exhibits to identify
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Item #5.
each of the waivers that they were requesting in hopes of clarifying their request.
Ms. Melson-Williams further explained that onsite visits of Council Members do
not typically occur due to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and having to
post a potential quorum or meeting agenda.
Responding to Mr. Boggerty, Mr. Anderson stated he was unaware of whether the
project team knew about the district 4 Town Hall Meeting. Mr. Anderson explained
he has had no contact or conversations with any of the parties involved regarding
this matter.
Mr. Boggerty stated he wanted to leave Item # 1 Request for Waiver on the Agenda
and asked if a vote was taken would the project team be able to come back and re-
present the item.
Responding to Mr. Boggerty, Ms. Melson-Williams stated the planning
commission has made a recommendation to Council and action resides with
Council. Ms. Melson-Williams stated she would have to defer first to code and it
would likely be a court provision. Ms. Melson-Williams warned that the applicant
has legal counsel as part of the project team and would tread lightly.
Mr. Neil stated he believed there are circumstances involving the section of land
that are very politically sensitive and could be misconstrued. He explained he would
rather have this item delayed than have it come back and have any recourse coming
back against the city for doing whatever actions may take place tonight. Mr. Neil
further explained he believed the better choice is to defer the item until
July 26, 2022. Mr. Neil stated he made the original motion to delay it for just that
purpose, so it is open, available, and transparent. Mr. Neil stated for transparency's
sake that the item is deferred until the 26th of July to go over it with both parties
involved in this.
Mr. Taylor stated he is also concerned with the legal aspect of Item #1. He
explained he is concerned about tying up taxpayer dollars when all council must do
is wait until the next Safety, Advisory, and Transportation Committee Meeting.
Mr. Anderson agreed with Mr. Neil and Mr. Taylor.
Responding to Dr. Pillsbury, Ms. Melson-Williams stated she does not believe that
the land subdivision regulations or the zoning ordinance, place a time frame for
reporting an absence. The Planning Department asks that if someone would like to
defer action on something or postpone, they submit the request in writing to her
office. Ms. Melson-Williams stated in the case of this applicant she referred it to
the City Clerk's Office since they are the Council's support staff and manage their
Agendas.
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Item #5.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Ms. Melson-Williams stated the written request is an
unwritten policy in the Planning Department. Ms. Melson-Williams stated the
applicant copied the Clerk's Office on the email requesting Item #1 be postponed.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Ms. Engle confirmed the project engineer called the
Clerk's Office right after talking with Ms. Melson-Williams and he sent an email
requesting the item be deferred to July 26, 2022, Safety, Advisory, and
Transportation Committee Meeting. Ms. Engle explained she called the Committee
Chair, Mr. Taylor, and left a voice message. Ms. Engle stated she spoke with
Mr. Taylor at approximately 9:45 a.m. and asked to defer Item #1 due to the
applicant having an emergency.
Responding to Dr. Pillsbury, Mr. Anderson stated legally it is Council's option to
decide whether it is a reasonable request to defer an Item. Mr. Anderson explained,
that if the request was made two weeks prior with an explanation that would be
considered reasonable, however, emergencies do happen. Mr. Anderson stated
precedent has been to give somebody one deferral due to an emergency however,
it is not reasonable to give two or three deferrals without an explanation.
Dr. Pillsbury agreed it is reasonable to give the applicant this exception but does
not want to see it become a pattern.
Mr. Boggerty recommended having the parties in attendance speak without having
to come back on July 26, 2022.
Mr. Anderson advised that then one side would know all the arguments in advance
with a month to prepare. Mr. Anderson did not feel this was fair to the parties in
attendance.
Mr. Anderson moved to adopt the agenda as amended to add an update on
Wages to the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee Agenda and
to defer Item #1 on the Safety, Advisory, and Transportation Committee
Request for Waiver - Appendix A - Subdivisions, Article VI - Subdivision -
General Requirements and Design Standards, Section A - Streets (Right-of-
Way known as Raymond Street and Railroad Avenue) - Waiver of
Requirements for the Reduction of the Minimum Street Right-of-Way Width,
Increase in Maximum Length of a Dead-End Street (Cul-de-Sac), and the
Elimination of Sidewalk on One Side of a Public Street associated with a Site
Development Plan for the improvements to the rights-of-way of Raymond
Street and Railroad Avenue to allow for further development of the properties
that these streets will give access (Dawn Melson-Williams, Interim City
Planner) until the July 26, 2022, Safety, Advisory, and Transportation
Committee Meeting the motion was seconded by Mr. Rocha and unanimously
carried.
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Item #5.
SAFETY, ADVISORY, AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
The Safety, Advisory, and Transportation Committee met with Chairman Taylor
presiding.
Adoption of Agenda
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Boggerty and
unanimously carried.
Update on School Safety (Chief Thomas Johnson, Dover Police Department,
Master Corporal Brian Gedney, Dover Police Department, and Dr. Vilicia
Cade, Superintendent of Capital School District)
Dr. Vilicia Cade, Superintendent of Capital School District reported the Capital
School District has a vision for safety and security and continues to be proactive.
Dr. Cade explained because of the incident in Texas, her first steps were to reach
out to Chief Johnson and all safety personnel to have a meeting to talk and revisit
their plans.
Dr. Cade explained she wanted the public to know that they proactively are
involved in developing safety plans. They focus on what she calls the four P's as it
pertains to the safety and security vision in the Capital School District, on the
preservation of people's wellbeing, prevention, and increasing access and
opportunities to key safety training at all levels of our organization. Expanding
understanding and access to opportunities around mental health and social-
emotional support is pivotal in terms of prevention. Protection is the second key,
strengthening the district's leadership focus on safety and security, and being
proactive, safeguarding, efficacy, fidelity, consistency, and equity when
implementing safety procedures before and during the crisis.
Dr. Cade emphasized partnerships are where they are very strong and one of the
things that she did with Chief Johnson was to revisit a lot of the safety protocols
and communications, relationships, and resources that they share with our key law
enforcement partners. She explained they focused on seven key areas, increasing
leadership focus on safety, implementing documented safety procedures with
efficacy, fidelity, consistency, and equity, improving communication relationships
between constables, SROs, and the Dover Police Department, and enhancing
training for constables and evaluating plans as an ongoing process. Dr. Cade stated
they are focused on trauma-informed care, really expanding access and opportunity
around trauma-informed care and understanding how social-emotional wellbeing
and mental health contribute to issues around safety.
Chief Johnson stated as Chief of Police, particularly in an incident that involves
children of tender years, in the aftermath of that event in Texas, where perhaps
response procedures and decisions that were made at that moment might not have
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Item #5.
been 100 percent the best. He stated as a parent and a cop watching that, he was
thinking about your backyard, school district, and your situation.
Chief Johnson explained Dover Police Department has trained School Resource
Officers, five of them. Four of them are at Capital School District facilities, one is
at a Kent County facility, and Master Corporal Gedney, who is the senior supervisor
in that core of school resource officers, takes care of his facility, and he floats and
networks at the elementary school level.
Chief Johnson stated he believes it is good information for the council to know that
they did get all the key safety and security stakeholders into one room, both
in- district employed, and city employed. They did around the table and
double- checked everything, and they had conversations about training, compliance
to Delaware statutes as far as exercises, drills., security of every facility down to
door locks and windowsills, and all the things that might come into play.
The Senator's Safety Task Force is made up of constables, police officers,
administrators, and supervisors from Dover Police Department. Chief Johnson
reported that the entire blueprint system for the entire Capital School District was
recently updated and downloaded into police databases and it's available both in the
field and in the 911 center in case we ever found ourselves standing outside of a
school building that we might not have complete familiarity with.
Chief Johnson stated at Dover High School in the Capital School District, there will
be a training exercise this July that's focused on the part of these events known as
reunification. Connecting parents back with their kids in the aftermath of a critical
event is paramount, so they're going to do some live simulations of an event while
the school district is in summer recess.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Dr. Cade stated Captain Robbins, SRO
Stevenson, Damien Burke, Sergeant Pierce, and Dr. Cade are on the task force.
Mayor Christiansen suggested inviting the City of Dover Emergency management
Director, Mrs. Kay Sass, Dover Fire Department, Emergency Management
Services (EMS), St. Francis Ambulance Services, and Kent County Paramedics.
Mr. Anderson asked that this item be placed on Dover TV at the earliest
convenience.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Master Corporal Brian Gedney stated they work well
together with Capital School District and their Constables. Master Corporal Gedney
stated the Constables are professionals, retired law enforcement officers and they
stay in close contact. Master Corporal Gedney explained within the school, they all
have school radios that are on the same frequencies, everyone understands their
role, and they know where the lines are as far as what would be Dover Police
Officers and what would be their job.
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Item #5.
Responding to Mr. Anderson, Master Corporal Gedney stated they have all the
safety equipment they need and are easily accessible.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Dr. Cade explained that safety training includes one
tabletop annually, two intruder drills, and fire drills.
Mr. Neil stated he was delighted with the due diligence, too often, the city council
is accused of not doing enough, of not taking enough guns away, and not removing
bad guys, to the point that you would have to have a police state, literally, to do
that. Mr. Neil stated the best thing we can do is what they are doing, to be prepared
when that attack comes because you don't know when it's going to happen, you
don't know where it's going to happen, you don't know how it's going to happen,
this is the best defense that any city can have, whether it is in general, or whether it
is with our precious kids. They are our future.
Responding to Ms. Lachelle Paul, Dr. Cade explained Capital School District has
on staff, 15 constables. There is one at every elementary school, two full-time at
Central Middle School, one part-time second shift at Central Middle School, three
at Dover High School, and one-second shift constable at Dover High School.
Dr. Cade further explained there are School Resource Officers at four schools
Dover High School, Kent County Secondary ILC, William Henry, and Central
Middle School. Dr. Cade stated Master Corporal Gedney does rounds at the
elementary school level, so he touches base with all the elementary schools.
Dr. Cade stated all Constables and School Resource Officers are armed.
Responding to Mr. Taylor Dr. Cade stated all school districts are required by
DEMA, the Delaware Emergency Management Agency, to have safety drills.
Capital School District does safety assessments and certain drills annually and is
required to upload safety plans and procedures. Dr. Cade stated there is a mix
between schools, some have state police officers, constables, and municipality
police officers and some have a mix.
Responding to Mr. Taylor, Chief Johnson stated The Caesar Rodney School is on
the south end of town, which is part of the rotation on the elementary school visit.
Chief Johnson stated the police department has already had some preliminary
conversations with at least one charter school inside the city and the same model is
going to be adopted and integrated as far as a common standard response package.
Mr. Taylor moved for adjournment of the Safety, Advisory, and
Transportation Committee, hearing no objection the meeting adjourned at
6:45 p.m.
UTILITY COMMITTEE
The Utility Committee met with Chairman Rocha presiding.
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Item #5.
Adoption of Agenda
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Boggerty, and
unanimously carried.
Evaluation of Bids – Water Street Stormwater Feasibility Study (Jason Lyon,
Director of Water Wastewater)
Mr. Jason Lyon, Director of Water Wastewater reviewed the background and
analysis regarding the Evaluation of Bids for the Water Street Stormwater
Feasibility Study.
Staff recommended awarding the contract to Century Engineering, LLC, for the
City of Dover, Water Street Stormwater Feasibility Project, for $22,500.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Lyon stated he had reached out to five
companies that fall under the category of consulting engineering firms that were
minority contractors out of 12 companies solicited. Mr. Lyon explained the
minority companies did not submit any bids.
Mr. Taylor stated he believed pre-bid meetings need to be mandatory, because some
of the minority businesses aren't large enough to get the contracts, but if everyone
is in the same room with who is going to get the contract, they know who to
subcontract from. Mr. Taylor stated he believed it would bring balance to the
minority business owners who are unable to get the large contracts but can have
steady work just by being subcontractors from them and it will also help large
companies as well.
Council President Sudler stated he concurred with Mr. Taylor.
Mr. Lyon stated for the record, pre-bid meetings are held for construction projects.
This job is for an engineering firm for a feasibility study and is very limited.
Mr. Neil moved to recommend awarding the contract to Century Engineering,
LLC, for the City of Dover, Water Street Stormwater Feasibility Project in the
amount of $22,500, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by
Mr. Boggerty and unanimously carried.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval for the committee's recommendation, as
seconded by Mr. Rocha and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Mr. Rocha introduced Mr. Dana Shelton, the newest Utility Committee member.
Mr. Rocha moved for adjournment of the Utility Committee, hearing no
objection the meeting adjourned at 6:55 p.m.
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Item #5.
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
The Legislative, Finance and Administration Committee met with Chairman
Anderson presiding.
Adoption of Agenda
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Rocha and
unanimously carried.
Update on Wages (David S. Hugg, III, City Manager)
Mr. Hugg thanked the council for being involved and concerned about the welfare
of City of Dover employees. Mr. Hugg stated during the budget process concerns
were brought to the council and the administration about the compensation of some
employees and the risk that they may leave to find other jobs in jurisdictions that
have higher compensation. Mr. Hugg explained they did hear the concerns about
competitiveness and the fact that there were potentially several dispatch jobs that
would be opening, particularly in our region. Mr. Hugg further explained as part of
the budget process for both police communications dispatchers, and fire
dispatchers, the council approved and included in the budget a second step to be
effective July 1, 2022, for all dispatchers.
Mr. Hugg explained that dispatchers effective July 1, 2022, were given the normal
step increase that is provided in their contract, and then they will be moved to an
additional step, one step further, also effective July 1. Mr. Hugg gave the example
that if they were a pay grade 18-4 today, and they were going to go to an 18-5 on
July 1st, otherwise we would take them to 18-6 so that they would see an additional
bump in their salary.
Mr. Hugg stated the pay increase is a part of a movement to get closer to at least
regional equity. Mr. Hugg assured dispatchers that as they complete the wage
studies, dispatchers are still one of the jobs that's clearly at the top of the list to look
at.
Mr. Hugg announced last week at a Special Executive Session, Council approved
a recommendation for everybody who works for the City of Dover, to express their
appreciation everyone will receive an appreciation bonus to be paid sometime
during July. The bonus will be a separate check from regular salaries.
Mr. Hugg further explained it will be a tiered bonus, employees making under
$75,000 a year as of July 1, will get a 2 1/2% bonus. Employees making between
$75 and $100,000 will get a 2% bonus. Senior management will get a 1% bonus,
and there will be an adjustment or a bonus for temporary work, or part-time workers
as well. Temporary or part-time workers do not have a comparable pay scale, so
they may be looking at an amount, as opposed to a 1% or something of that nature.
Mr. Hugg stated this will be a one-time across-the-board non-pensionable bonus,
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Item #5.
but it will be paid, in mid-July. Every employee will get some recognition, and
some additional funds from the city, to thank them for all their services.
Mr. Boggerty stated he wanted to be specifically clear to the 9-1-1 operators and
the city, so there will be no ambiguity. Mr. Boggerty stated this was an initial step
to say, "This is what we can do today." Mr. Boggerty further explained it does not
mean that they are not open to coming to the table and continuing to develop a
meaningful dialogue to come to a complete resolution, such as through the
mechanism of opening the contract with the compensation and benefit scope to
continue to discuss, where can they move from there.
Mr. Boggerty stated this is a new day and wants to continue to show that they are
committed to making sure our city, and the employees of the city, are well taken
care of, including the 9-1-1 operators.
Authorize a Compensation Study of all City of Dover Employees (Dave
Hugg, City Manager)
Mr. David S. Hugg, III, City Manager, reviewed the background and analysis
regarding the need for the Compensation Study of all City of Dover Employees.
Staff recommended approving the City Manager to conduct a wage equity study of
all City of Dover employees
Mr. Neil stated this is an ongoing process and it's been ongoing since they paid a
lot of money for the Segal Study, which none of the council at that time was
satisfied with. Mr. Neil explained in the reviews made by Mr. Hugg, that he was
puzzled by a lot of things in the Segal Study that they were concerned with. Mr. Neil
further explained that they have been looking at this for some time, it is not neglect,
Council has been looking at it, and looking to bring it up. Mr. Neil stated Council
is bringing this now with the people who know what the city is doing and how it
operates is a commitment that they have already made previously but were not
satisfied with. Mr. Neil explained Council is coming down to the nitty-gritty where
they have already committed, but money is being laid out to rectify certain
shortcomings, which is not the fault of the employees the fault of the Council for
not being able to provide it.
Mr. Neil stated he believed that the employees who say they don't have any trust,
understand that they have been around the edges. Mr. Neil noted this was a no-
brainer as far as he is concerned, it is necessary, and something to benefit, not only
dispatchers but everybody within the city who benefits because they are good
employees.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Hugg stated he expected the new study to
take about 6 months and hopes to not wait until the fiscal year 2024, to start acting.
Mr. Hugg noted Ms. Sharon Duca, Assistant City Manager, and Naomi Poole,
Human Resource Director, would help with the wage study.
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Item #5.
Responding to Mr. Contant, Mr. Hugg stated the $40,000 would be used to buy
reputable market data. Mr. Hugg explained they are not going to hire a consultant.
Responding to Mr. Hugg, Mr. Contant suggested using an intern program at a local
college to help compile data, as this would save money for the city. Mr. Contant
also suggested looking at comparable local municipalities as well as for linemen to
get information from Delmarva Power and Delaware Electric Co-op because that
is where all the municipalities lose their linemen to.
Dr. Wilma Mishoe, 353 Rita Wilma Road, Dover Delaware stated Delaware State
University (DSU) is eager to assist the City of Dover with any kind of issues the
city may need assistance with. Dr. Mishoe noted that DSU offers a degree in data
analysis. Dr. Mishoe urged the council to consider DSU because they truly want to
partner with the City of Dover. Dr. Mishoe suggested scheduling a tour for Council
Members and City Employees to see what DSU has to offer and all the research
they are currently doing.
Mr. Sudler stated he had been speaking with Mr. Tony Boyle, Vice President of
DSU, regarding sharing resources in lieu of property tax and good faith as a partner.
Mr. Neil moved to recommend approval of the City Manager to conduct a
wage equity study of all City of Dover employees, as recommended by staff.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Sudler and unanimously carried.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval for the committee's recommendation, as
seconded by Mr. Rocha and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Ordinance #2022-07 - Amending Chapter 2 - Administration, Article II. -
City Council, Section 2-201 Compensation and expenses for mayor, council,
and other elected or appointed officials (Council President Sudler and
Councilman Anderson)
Mr. Anderson reviewed the background and analysis regarding Ordinance #2022-
07.
Staff recommended approval for the ordinance to be retroactive on July 1, 2022,
and to send to the Regular Council Meeting of July 11, 2022, for First Reading,
contingent on HB 456 - An Act to amend the Charter of the City of Dover, being
passed by the General Assembly and signed by Governor John Carney.
Mr. Boggerty moved to recommend approval of the ordinance to be retroactive July
1, 2022, and to send to the Regular Council meeting of July 11, 2022, for First
Reading, contingent on HB-456 – An Act to amend the Charter of the City of
Dover, being passed by the General Assembly and signed by Governor John
Carney, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Mr. Sudler.
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Item #5.
Responding to Mr. Contant, Mr. Anderson stated the money for the Council pay
increase was allocated in the FY23 budget and was approved by Committee and
Council.
Mr. Hugg reminded Council that this ordinance is contingent on HB456 being
passed and signed by Governor John Carney.
Mr. Sudler thanked the city staff, the city manager, and all the staff that worked on
the budget and for dedicating their time and energy to our employees. Mr. Sudler
stated City of Dover employees in his view, are number one first and foremost.
Mr. Sudler thanked the staff for doing their due diligence and wanting to increase
the well-being of our employees overall.
Mr. Boggerty moved to recommend approval of the ordinance to be
retroactive July 1, 2022, and to send to the Regular Council meeting of July
11, 2022, for First Reading, contingent on HB-456 – An Act to amend the
Charter of the City of Dover, being passed by the General Assembly and
signed by Governor John Carney, as recommended by staff. The motion was
seconded by Mr. Sudler and passed by a roll call vote of 7-0 with 2 abstentions
(Mr. Neil and Mr. Contant).
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval for the committee's recommendation, as
seconded by Mr. Neil and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Discussion of Council Priorities (Councilman David Anderson)
Mr. Sudler stated his goals are to create more partnerships with Delaware State
University and its resources. Mr. Sudler stated he would like to increase the
partnership with the Capital School District in getting out our Delaware mortgage
assistance for Delaware graduates starting a little earlier, like in high school or
junior high to discuss that program as a way of providing an incentive for them to
go to college and when they got out of college to also prepare them for real-life
skills and real-life bills like mortgage and the whole dynamics. Mr. Sudler stated
he believes that the program was already in existence with HUD, the Delaware
State Housing Authority.
Mr. Sudler stated he wanted to increase partnerships and not have to reinvent the
wheel but share resources. Mr. Sudler stated with the scope of the legislative,
finance, and administration committee, he would like to see more organizational
support programs and policies focused on work-life balance and work-family
conflict issues, fulfilling psychological contracts, and unwritten promises in good
faith.
Mr. Boggerty stated he wanted to continue to build a meaningful relationship with
our city employees, let them know that they are our number one resource, and
hopefully reestablish some level of trust. Mr. Boggerty explained even when each
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side does not get a hundred percent of something that they understand that effort is
being made to take care of our city employees and our volunteers. Mr. Boggerty
stated he did not want to forget the volunteers at the fire department as well and
make sure to the best of the Council's ability, to take care of them.
Mr. Boggerty stated he is focused on economic development and has tried to attract
businesses such as Top Golf, and Golf Suites, and now is trying to work on an ax-
throwing business. Mr. Boggerty noted he is trying to find some level of
entertainment-type opportunities to come to Dover.
Mr. Boggerty stated he would like to see increased communication and
transparency, community partnership, and engagement with grassroots
organizations, or either those established, as Council President said, whether it's
Delaware State University or Wilmington University.
Mr. Boggerty stated pharmaceutical companies are successful in one thing and it's
marketing. The marketing budget is the biggest in pharmaceuticals. Mr. Boggerty
stated he would like to market the City of Dover and showcase our parks.
Mr. Boggerty explained the need to tell people why Dover is a great place to live,
and why it is fun to come down and hold events at the green.
Mr. Neil stated housing is a priority, empty houses need to be filled, and dilapidated
houses are taken down and put into the hands of NCALL and Habitat for people to
live in. Mr. Neil stated the need for rental housing and apartments. Mr. Neil
discussed the need to lease land communities that have sold shells of houses and
put people in danger to have those houses, have certificates of occupancy, to make
sure that's healthy housing. Mr. Neil explained someone who had to open a door of
a rental mobile home park that did not have a door handle, had to open it with a
knife and had to be evacuated, and had no place to go. Mr. Neil stated the
Downtown Dover Partnership is looking at housing for the simple reason that they
have affordable housing, medium-level, and even luxury housing. Mr. Neil noted
an apartment complex that's coming up, which he will not oppose because we
desperately need housing.
Mr. Neil explained Dover desperately needs housing because there just isn't enough
housing for our people. Mr. Neil explained there is not enough housing for the
homeless, they have no place to go, and this is where we must spend a concentration
on. Mr. Neil noted The State of Delaware dominates the housing, there are things
that they control that the city cannot control, but we must have that for here.
Mr. Neil explained the more housing that we have in this city, that means it's more
people to give business to the city. We need to have affordable housing.
Mr. Neil stated the two government agencies or quasi-government agencies that
lend money for housing, are Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Mr. Neil stated they
both have affordable housing in their mantra. Mr. Neil further explained the only
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Item #5.
problem is they are much better at developing and sustaining millionaires than they
are at developing and sustaining affordable housing.
Mr. Neil stated the city can't do it all, but what the city can do it has to do. Mr. Neil
stated that starts with the buildings that are existing, that aren't being maintained,
that should be taken down. Mr. Neil explained that is a load on our code inspectors
who do a terrific job in bringing houses around and bringing the landlords who
don't do what they're supposed to do around for it.
Mr. Taylor stated he would like to continue making Dover safe and market properly
as being safe, clean, welcoming, and inclusive. Mr. Taylor stated he believed in the
need to have a theme to it and that we need to unite with partners. Mr. Taylor noted
he would like to review our landlord-tenant code, so we can move a lot quicker
when it comes to getting out nuisance tenants, those who are drug dealers, and those
who are contributing to the degradation of our society. Mr. Taylor explained current
laws are keeping them in place.
Mr. Taylor stated the importance of good faith negotiations with all our employees,
and affordable housing, Mr. Taylor would like to see improved public
transportation as well. Mr. Taylor explained there are a lot of people who do not
have cars and again, gas is at $5 a gallon. It will be economically advantageous for
a lot of folks to be able to rely on a great partnership, whether it be with Dart,
DelDOT, or whomever it may be so that we can increase public transportation.
Mr. Taylor would like a strategic plan to be put together by Council so that the
501(c)(3) no longer compete with who they give their services, or they duplicate
services time and time and time again Mr. Taylor stated he believes that we have a
plan where we unite those 501(c)(3)s that are successful in their ventures,
successful in uniting people and bringing relief. He further explained by bringing
those successful ones together he believed they could create a strategy that is
sustainable and something they can all be proud of. Mr. Taylor noted in the strategic
plan, that he would like to pinpoint Dover pride, seems like the pride is not spoken
of highly enough or often enough and we are proud people.
Mr. Rocha stated his appreciation to Chief Johnson, transforming the Police
Department into a community policing model is not easy to do, but he is encouraged
by the actions that Chief Johnson has taken thus far in enabling your officers to
make that transition.
Mr. Rocha noted he had conversations with some of them and asked questions
about behavioral health issues, and across the board, it is easy to say, they must do
something about the homeless. Mr. Rocha asked how do we know that the homeless
want us to do something? He noted the citizens want them to do something, but
they must get back to the grassroots or at least identify and come back with facts
about what these situations are.
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Item #5.
Mr. Rocha stated his goal would be to do some fact gathering so that they know
what the data is saying, and kind of segment these facts, so that they can look at it
and see where the gaps are. So Council is not guessing or second-guessing what
they think is going on in the city. Mr. Rocha stated he believes the only way to
improve on it, is to get a deep understanding of what the critical needs are for all
citizens here in this city. Mr. Rocha noted there are a lot of great things going on in
Dover, such as Habitat for Humanity, which builds homes for families. Mr. Rocha
stated that is a wonderful thing that they should be touting and marketing to bring
people here, to make a vibrant community. Mosaic and a Downtown Dover
partnership.
Mr. Rocha stated Mosaic and Downtown Dover Partnership are moving forward
and that is a bright spot in our community. Mr. Rocha noted the schools are very
much doing what it needs to do, and that they can talk about it. Mr. Rocha explained
the safety of our citizens, taking care of our children, and making sure that our
children, regardless of their circumstances, that we ensure that we wrap our arms
around them so that they can be shown the love that they may or not see on daily
basis.
Mr. Rocha suggested looking at family circumstances so that they can put together
a comprehensive plan or a strategic plan as Councilman Taylor had suggested,
because they must balance this as a council, and they do not want to leave anybody
out.
Mr. Rocha stated he would like to set aside some time where they have a session
like when they talk about budget and looking at the social service, and nonprofit
organizations, but also pulling them in and having a deep, thorough discussion.
Mr. Rocha stated he believes going forward, if they understood or strived to
understand what the actual community needs are, it may be housing, it may be
social services, it may be behavioral health, it may be who is talking.
Dr. Pillsbury stated she believes that Mosaic and Downtown Dover Partnership
should present to the Committee of the Whole monthly or every other month, so
they know what they are doing and where they are going. Dr. Pillsbury noted the
city has given them money for this project and they should be reporting back some
of their plans to receive feedback.
Mr. Contant stated there is a crime issue, that the Chief and the department are
working on, but the reality is, that you could put all the money you wanted into a
police department, and you're never going to get rid of all the crime. Mr. Contant
explained they can address a lot of it and that starts with identifying the root causes
of it.
Mr. Contant agreed with Councilman Rocha, that they probably need to have
people out there and collect real data, and find out from these people, why they are
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Item #5.
committing crimes. We can have a very good idea, especially in the youth, which
crime among youth seems to be increasing. There's a lot of research out there on
criminogenic factors, which are very accurate when assessed in identifying those
who are most predisposed to being involved in a violent crime. Mr. Contant noted
there is not enough staff for that task.
Mr. Contant discussed the homeless population in the City of Dover. Mr. Contant
stated they needed to figure out why people are homeless and if they want to help.
Mr. Contant stated he worked for a nonprofit that worked in mental health and
substance abuse for eight years. Mr. Contant explained, unfortunately, without
looking at the data, that roughly half the people did not want to be helped.
Mr. Contant stated the other half that does want help, are the people that they need
to focus on.
Mr. Conant suggested college students that need to do research for a capstone or
thesis would be good opportunities to partner with non-profits and kind of be that
conduit to bring people together. Mr. Contant noted the city cannot do everything
however, they do have connections and can bring people together and kind of guide
them in the direction that we want the city to go and give them a purpose and an
opportunity to show what they can do and bring that back.
Mr. Contant expressed that economic development; more needs to be done.
Mr. Contant stated when they had the interviews for the city clerk and primarily for
the city manager, multiple applicants pointed out that our website is not the best.
Mr. Contant explained that if someone looks at the city, one of the first things they
do is go and they look at the website and it needs to be streamlined to put important
information upfront. Mr. Conant stated the city has a strong social media presence,
but every department has its own Facebook page. Mr. Contant stated the city could
improve communication both with the residents and with potential future
employers of the city.
Mr. Contant stated the city needs to do more for infrastructure. He noted they have
made some progress but more still needs to be done. Mr. Contant explained a lot of
large, what would be industrial users, that bypass the City of Dover because of the
electric rates. Mr. Contant stated that the city top loads utilities based on the pilot
situation because the State of Delaware must use utilities. Mr. Contant explained
they may not pay us taxes, but we'll get them on the back end. Mr. Contant further
explained the problem is that also gets our bigger users who might bring industry
to Dover. Mr. Contant suggested reviewing how the city structures rates and
whether there are incentives that can be provided to bring new businesses like what
they did with the box plant or some of the other businesses that are going to be
popping up in the next 12 months or so.
Mr. Contant mentioned marketing the city. He stated once the people start looking
at Dover, they must provide them with something. Mr. Contant suggested meeting
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Item #5.
with the Downtown Dover Partnership, Kent Economic Partnership, State of
Delaware, and other economic bodies to discuss what can be done for Dover.
Mr. Contant stated several people who are currently homeless or are currently
involved with gang violence or other things, are looking for a sense of purpose or
employment that can provide. Mr. Contant stated they need meaningful
employment or gainful employment that will help them to grow in their profession
and career. Mr. Contant stated Polytech Adult Education presented to the council
two weeks ago, the city could partner with them for people who are willing to learn
a new skill.
Mayor Christiansen stated every idea that had been presented by the members of
the council, and the members of the committee are terrific. Mayor Christiansen
explained the city works on several collaboratives. He also stated the city spends
money to market the city, both for tourism and economic development.
Mayor Christiansen reminded Council that the charter states specific
responsibilities that the Mayor and Council have for the City of Dover, and that is
to provide services, trash removal, fire, police, and basic services.
Mayor Christiansen explained that does not limit them from developing
collaboratives with other entities to do the things that have been mentioned. He also
reminded them that there are other social service agencies and other entities that are
already in place and that they need not reinvent the wheel but develop more
collaborative efforts.
Responding to Mr. Contant, Mayor Christiansen stated the enterprise funds that
were set up for the city, the water, sewer, and electric, were set up many, many
years ago. Mayor Christiansen explained the enterprise funds were set up to pick
up the slack on the budget, and that the property taxes that they collect today do not
even pay for the police department.
Mr. Anderson stated his goals are to cut property taxes to offset the property owner
stormwater maintenance fee, reimplement safe communities, enable conduit bonds,
help Chief Johnson to find funding for the five recommended officers downtown,
a plan for market wages for employees, investigate the viability of state pension
plan, find funding for a Silver Lake Master Plan, and research a tiny home
community. Mr. Anderson would also like to work with Safety, Advisory, and
Transportation to find a loitering ordinance for the city, remove vacant buildings,
implement agreeable recommendations for Mosaic, and institute a better supplier
diversity system.
Ms. Lachelle Paul suggested doing a true analysis, by sending surveys through
electric bills and electronic surveys, to get a true poll of residents and what they
need.
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Item #5.
Responding to Ms. Paul, Mr. Anderson stated by law the City Manager has
discretion within the departments of being able to move 5% and that is to give
flexibility because of unforeseen circumstances. Mr. Anderson explained that
besides that the Council must stick to the budget. Mr. Anderson further explained
in the past when that has not happened the committee has been at the forefront of
making sure that it has been reined back in. Mr. Anderson stated the budget
ordinance is law, and if flagrant abuse of that law occurred, it would result in
progressive discipline up to dismissal.
Mr. Anderson moved for adjournment of the Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee, hearing no objection the meeting adjourned at
8:04 p.m.
Mr. Sudler moved for the adjournment of the Council Committee of the
Whole, hearing no objection the meeting adjourned at 8:04 p.m.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for acceptance of the Council Committee of the Whole
Report, seconded by Mr. Rocha, and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
FIRST READING - PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2022-07
Council President Sudler reminded the public that copies of the proposed ordinance were available
at the entrance of the Council Chambers, on the City's website at www.cityofdover.com under
"Government," or by contacting the City Clerk's Office at (302) 736-7008 or
cityclerk@dover.de.us. Final action by Council on the proposed ordinance will take place during
the Council Meeting of July 26, 2022.
Mr. David Hugg III, City Manager, explained that this is the ordinance that accompanies the
approved budget and deals with the issue of compensation for the Mayor and Members of City
Council. He further explained that the amendments to the city charter are awaiting the Governor's
signature and it includes a provision allowing for the City Council to address its compensation
during this fiscal year. This ordinance is recommended for approval of recognizing that its
effective date will depend on when the Governor signs the legislation.
In accordance with Section 1-9 of the Dover Code, Council acknowledged the First Reading of the
proposed Ordinance as read by the City Clerk, by title only, as follows:
ORDINANCE #2022-07 AMENDING CHAPTER 2 – ADMINISTRATION, ARTICLE II. –
CITY COUNCIL, SECTION 2-201 COMPENSATION AND EXPENSES FOR MAYOR,
COUNCIL, AND OTHER ELECTED OR APPOINTED OFFICIALS.
CITY MANAGER'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. David Hugg, III, City Manager, reported that he received the list of General Assembly's Bond
Bill funding from the City Clerk, Andria Bennett. He further explained that the City of Dover was
awarded 3 million for wastewater and other public works improvements. Mr. Hugg stated that the
City of Dover's original request to the state for some of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
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Item #5.
funds were not awarded. The funds that the state had available were primarily transferred to the
Delaware State Housing Authority as part of a new program for affordable housing that will soon
be offered for applicants who want to do projects in Delaware, including the City of Dover.
COUNCIL MEMBERS' ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Neil announced that we were very fortunate to have terrific weather for the 4th of July parade
and the many people who did come out. Mr. Neil further stated that he thought it was great after
dealing with all the COVID cancellations. Mr. Neil explained that there was a second parade that
took place on Saturday, July 9, 2022, that was terrific, but it rained. The parade on July 9, 2022,
was for the Hundredth Anniversary of the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter’s Association. Mr. Neil
further explained how it was amazing how many of the volunteer fire groups from throughout this
state, and one from New Jersey that brought up the rear, came to this event and displayed their
equipment, both new and antique. Mr. Neil explained that City of Dover staff was in attendance
and did a magnificent job pulling it together and making it happen. Mr. Neil stated it was a shame
that they did not have the mayor's weather for this event, but the event was terrific. He further
explained that he was very fortunate to be able to be there and in his reign on council. Mr. Neil
went on to state that there were several of the members from the Congressional Delegation and
from the Kent County Levy Court who were in attendance as well. He stated it was a terrific
display, including a horse-drawn old piece of apparatus and the woman driving the apparatus,
originally from Denton with the horses. Mr. Neil applauded all involved and stated he was glad he
was there representing City Council on the reviewing stand because he did not have to walk in the
parade.
ADJOURNMENT
Mr. Sudler moved for adjournment of the Regular Council meeting, hearing no objection
the meeting adjourned at 6:50 p.m.
ANDRIA BENNETT
CITY CLERK
All ordinances, resolutions, motions, and orders adopted by City Council during their Regular
Meeting of July 11, 2022, are hereby approved.
ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
MAYOR
/AB
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS\Council-Minutes\2022\July 2022\07-11-2022 REGULAR.wpd
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Item #6.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
The Council Committee of the Whole met on July 12, 2022, at 6:06 p.m., with Council President
Sudler presiding. Members of Council present were Mr. Neil, Dr. Pillsbury (via WebEx), Ms. Arndt,
and Mr. Rocha. Mr. Anderson, Mr. Taylor, and Mr. Hare were absent. Mayor Christiansen was also
present. Civilian members present for their Committee meetings were Mr. Lewis and Mr. Tholstrup
(Parks, Recreation and Community Enhancement), Dana Shelton (Utility), and Mr. Contant and Mr.
Shevock (via WebEx) (Legislative, Finance, and Administration). Mr. McCutcheon (Utility) was
absent.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Ms. Arndt and unanimously carried.
PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee met with Chairwoman Arndt
presiding.
Adoption of Agenda
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Rocha and unanimously carried.
Presentation of Meeting House Branch Drainage Improvement Project (Joshua Barth, Public Works
Department)
Mr. Joshua Barth, Public Works Department, reviewed the presentation entitled "Presentation of
Meeting House Branch Drainage Improvement Project."
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Barth stated that the two concrete areas are clarifying rings left over
from the wastewater treatment facility. Mr. Barth explained they would act as a cap when they clean
up the site because sampling was not done under the concrete. Mr. Barth further explained that if they
tear up the rings or concrete, the city would have to sample and clean up whatever may be under it.
Mr. Barth stated leaving the concrete is an allowable cleanup option under the state, the concrete acts
as a cap or protective layer to the soil underneath.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Barth stated that the caps, like everything, have a lifespan. Mr. Barth
explained that it comes down to cost versus benefit. Mr. Barth further explained that it is a matter of
what resources and finances the city would like to invest in a property to clean up. Mr. Barth stated
everything has a lifespan of 25, 30, or 40 years.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Barth confirmed that the presented cleanup options would be the
Delaware Department of Natural Resources that will decide the cleanup options required given the
land use. Mr. Barth stated the Delaware Department of Natural Resources is aware the end land use
will be a Drainage Improvement Project and a potential park. Mr. Barth reassured that the state would
not approve of a cleanup option if it were inappropriate.
Mr. Neil stated they would be discussing this again when they make the AECOM contract because
this is the start of this thing. Mr. Neil explained that there were a lot of options for this area. Mr. Neil
explained one of the options was that they do not do anything. Mr. Neil stated he believed if they are
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COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING JULY 12, 2022 PAGE 2
Item #6.
going to be dealing with the remediation, it falls to the state to tell them what to do for this situation.
Mr. Neil stated that when they discuss the AECOM contract, which is starting the remediation, to see
what the expense looks like, it will be tremendous because of the options they have given. Mr. Neil
expressed there are still a lot of questions regarding crossing South Street, will there be a road or a
bridge, or do they want to use the south end of State Street to do that? Mr. Neil stated that all these
things are there, and he hopes they have the things that are not provided, which could add additional
costs.
Mr. Neil noted this would be an expensive project and hoped the attorneys look at it to ensure that
they cover all the grounds when preparing this contract. Mr. Neil stated the agreement should go
through quickly because they need it. Mr. Neil said it would be a very interesting process, and
everything done would affect what they were discussing with Downtown Dover Partnership and
Mosaic. Mr. Neil suggested touching base with Downtown Dover Partnership because he believes it
is essential in terms of what the plans will be in the future for the downtown. After all, this is the heart
of downtown that's affected.
Responding to Mr. Tholstrup, Mr. Barth stated he did not feel comfortable discussing the river walk.
Mr. Barth noted there are no conceptual plans yet for the park. However, Mr. Barth did explain that
the plan to open the channel that was once from State Street down to the St. Jones River is now a storm
pipe that carries stormwater to the river, and that essentially is where the Meeting House Branch used
to be. Mr. Barth further explained that the plan is to remove those pipes, allow the water to flow more
naturally, and restore the area to its original beauty, an open stream. Mr. Barth noted that it would fit
and compliment a park because there would be a natural water feature. However, there are not any
specific plans for a park.
Responding to Mr. Tholstrup, Mr. Barth stated the property adjacent to the St. Jones River, the city
owns 4.5-5 acres of that property.
Responding to Mr. Tholstrup, Mr. Barth stated the area was analyzed by three engineering firms PSC
Engineering in 1989, Becker Morgan in 2009, and AECOM in 2015. Mr. Barth noted the last report
he reviewed was the Becker Morgan, and they did a hydraulic analysis for the area based upon the
drainage area and would wipe out the 25-year storm event. Mr. Barth stated that it concerned him that
downtown floods during heavy rain would be a 10–15-year type flood event.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Mr. Barth stated the current plans do not include the parking lot
on the site of the old box outlet or the paving over the northeast corner of Governors and Water Street.
Mr. Barth noted once they are in the final stages of completing the design, they can have those firms
communicate with one another to account for that within the latest analysis. Mr. Barth stated that it
sounded like they were going to cover how to manage stormwater at the family courthouse and
potentially store stormwater. Mr. Barth explained this would help resolve the flooding issue downtown
even more, as there would be less water going down to the bottleneck.
Ms. Arndt suggested making sure the residents at Elm Terrace are involved in the process. Ms. Arndt
explained that if they know what is going on and why people are out there, it will alleviate any concerns
they might have regarding potential flooding on their properties.
NCALL Donation of 7,176 square feet of 235 North Kirkwood Street to the City of Dover (David S.
Hugg, III, City Manager)
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Item #6.
Mr. David S. Hugg, III, City Manager, reviewed the background and analysis regarding donating
7,176 square feet of 235 North Kirkwood Street to the City of Dover.
The staff recommended acceptance of the donation.
Mr. Sudler moved to recommend acceptance of the donation, as recommended by staff. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Rocha and unanimously carried.
Mayor and Council Reports
Council President Sudler
Mr. Sudler reviewed Attachment #1 entitled "Council – President/District 4 Report".
First District
Dr. Pillsbury stated she attended the 4th of July Celebration. Dr. Pillsbury said she received a complaint
from a constituent in Bicentennial Village regarding their electric bill. Dr. Pillsbury explained the
billing cycle was for 6/1-7/5, and the rate increase did not take effect until July 1st; however, they were
billed for the increased rate for the entire month. Dr. Pillsbury did not believe this to be fair. Dr.
Pillsbury stated the answer she received from staff is that is the way it has always been done.
Responding to Dr. Pillsbury, Ms. Arndt stated they would have someone look into this issue.
Mr. Rocha stated once Dr. Pillsbury returns; he would like to reach out to her about a plan of
constituent engagement in the First District. Mr. Rocha said they would develop a platform where
constituents or representatives of each housing area in the First District can communicate with the
councilpersons and bring issues to their attention in one forum.
Ms. Arndt asked Mr. Rocha to keep them updated, and it may be something they could use across all
districts.
Second District
Mr. Hare and Mr. Taylor were absent.
Third District
Mr. Neil stated he attended two special meetings, one on June 1st dealing with Kings Cliff, and thanks
to the staff, via WebEx, they were able to bring in the Attorney General's office on June 9th with
Councilman Boggerty. Mr. Neil also attended a renter's rights discussion with a representative of
NCALL, the Construction and Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals hearing with
Councilman Anderson, Councilman Rocha, and civilians on June 8th. Mr. Neil stated he testified twice
at Legislative Hall on bills that affect lease land homeowners in Dover. Mr. Neil noted he came out
on the short end of it, but that game will continue. Mr. Neil stated he attended two Habitat for
Humanity meetings during June. On June 10, 2022, the kickoff of the Restore event, and then on July
12, 2022, along with Mayor Christiansen, Dave Hugg, Councilman Taylor, and Dawn Melson
Williams, dealing with the remediation, their progress to date, and options that they put out for us.
Mr. Neil stated he spoke to Diane Laird, Director of Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP), and relayed
Dr. Pillsbury's request to have them report to council monthly or as quickly as possible. Mr. Neil stated
he and staff are invited to different meetings so that they have input and can report to council
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themselves. Mr. Neil explained that the DDP wants the council involved and to keep them informed
about what is happening.
Mr. Neil stated he attended the African American Festival on June the 11th, June the 16th, the tourism
meeting on June the 18th, Comic-Con Festival at the Dover Public Library, the entire area around
Legislative Hall, and to Downtown Dover Partnership's meetings.
Mr. Neil also attended the July 4th parade, and on July 9th, he sat on the reviewing stand of the
Hundredth Anniversary of the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter's Association. Mr. Neil noted there
were 10 council meetings from the beginning of June through July 12, including the homework that
goes into preparation for those meetings and emails from constituents and staff.
Fourth District
Mr. Anderson was absent. Mr. Sudler included his Fourth District Report in Attachment #1 - Council
– President/District 4 Report
At-Large
Mr. Boggerty was absent.
Mayor Christiansen
Mayor Christiansen reviewed Attachment #2 - Mayor's Report.
Ms. Arndt moved for adjournment of the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement
Committee; hearing no objection, the meeting adjourned at 6:50 p.m.
UTILITY COMMITTEE
The Utility Committee met with Chairman Rocha presiding.
Adoption of Agenda
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Ms. Arndt and unanimously carried.
Engineering Support – Water Street and South Governors Avenue (Jason Lyon, Director of Water
Wastewater)
Mr. Jason Lyon, Director of Water Wastewater, reviewed the background and analysis regarding the
engineering design support to increase stormwater storage.
Staff recommended authorizing additional engineering design support to the Office of Management
and Budget, Division of Facilities Management to increase stormwater storage for $16,500.
Responding to Mr. Neil, Mr. Lyon stated they cannot say if it would help with a 10-year or 25-year
storm because the design has not taken place yet.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Lyon stated the entire area would drain to the Meeting House Branch
and eventually out to the Saint Jones River. Mr. Lyon noted the stormwater would be held in the
parking lot, which is slightly higher than the road. Mr. Lyon explained the water would be let out,
and the downstream piping could handle it.
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Item #6.
Responding to Ms. Arndt, Mr. Lyon stated the design had not been completed, but the idea is a storm
tech system where the water goes under the pavement. Mr. Lyon explained the sediment and other
particulates that are carried with the water through the pavement will get stored in the stone and will
not be released out with the water. Mr. Lyon noted it is like a stormwater pond where you have a
stone, a veer that filters out before it gets to the actual pond. Mr. Lyon stated this should help
improve the quality of water.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Mr. Lyon stated he could not predict when it would need to be cleaned
without the completed design. Mr. Lyon explained that the system has a monitoring port where they
can open it like a manhole and use a back truck to clean it out.
Mr. Neil moved to recommend authorizing additional engineering design support to the Office
of Management and Budget, Division of Facilities Management, to increase stormwater storage
in the amount of $16,500, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Ms. Arndt and
unanimously carried.
Mr. Rocha moved for adjournment of the Utility Committee, hearing no objection, the meeting
adjourned at 6:59 p.m.
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee met with Council President Sudler
presiding.
Adoption of Agenda
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Ms. Arndt and unanimously carried.
Evaluation of Bids – Garrison Oak Technology & Business Park (GOTBP) Substation Switchgear
(Shawn Burgett, Engineering Services and System Operations Superintendent, Electric Department)
Mr. Shawn Burgett, Engineering Services and System Operation Superintendent, Electric Department,
reviewed the background and analysis regarding the Substation Switchgear.
Staff recommended awarding contract #22-0036EL to Siemens.
Responding to Mr. Neil, Mr. Burgett stated this is not part of the $5 million grant received.
However, Mr. Burgett explained this was approved in the budget for this project.
Responding to Mr. Contant, Mr. Burgett stated he did not have the previous two packages approved
by the council. Mr. Burgett said he did not want to give the wrong information and would get the
information to council.
Mr. Contant requested a breakdown of all the authorizations for Garrison Oak Technology & Business
Park Substation Switch Gear by project number to include the original amount authorized, the original
amount that was budgeted, the authorization they are seeking, and the amount that has been spent to
date.
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Item #6.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Burgett stated the $1.7 million is within the $7 million budget.
Mr. Burgett explained that by the time the second vendor began to progress, the price jumped
drastically, and the Electric Department could not sign off on the change order.
Mr. Contant suggested moving forward; the Committee Action Form states the amount budgeted for
the project and what portion of that budget is being requested for approval.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Contant stated he believed the committee should not wait to vote and
approve this item. Mr. Contant explained that most suppliers are securing 30-day contracts and are not
entertaining anything beyond that due to prices changing rapidly. Mr. Contant stated he would still
approve this item tonight, not to cause a delay but would like to see the breakdowns.
Ms. Arndt moved to recommend awarding contract #22-0036EL to Siemens, as recommended
by staff. The motion was seconded by Mr. Neil and unanimously carried.
Proposed Budget Amendment to the 2019 CDBG Action Plan with the special allocation authorized
by the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) (Tracey Harvey, CDBG
Program Manager)
Ms. Tracey Harvey, CDBG Program Manager, reviewed the background and analysis of the Proposed
Budget Amendment to the 2019 CDBG Action Plan.
Staff recommended the approval of the Proposed Budget Amendment totaling $91 931 for Fiscal Year
2019.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Ms. Harvey stated that there is no need to advertise vouchers or assistance
through Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing because there is already a waiting list.
Responding to Ms. Arndt, Ms. Harvey stated she did not know if there was a preference for families
over single individuals. Ms. Harvey explained she would have to get that information from Dover
Interfaith Mission for Housing. Ms. Harvey noted the invoices she has received thus far it has been
about 50/50.
Mr. Neil moved to recommend approval of the Proposed Budget Amendment totaling $91,931
for Fiscal Year 2019, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by Mr. Rocha and
unanimously carried.
Consideration of School Resource Officer (SRO) requests (Chief Thomas Johnson, Dover Police
Department)
Chief Johnson reviewed the background and analysis for approving SRO requests.
Staff recommended the approval of School Resource Officer requests, contingent on funding from
requestors.
Responding to Mr. Neil, Chief Johnson stated he informed the charter school that if this were
authorized, to be advised he may not be able to fill the position on a timetable due to finding the
appropriate staff. Chief Johnson explained he has 13 applicants in a background investigation and four
files from the first cycle of this year's hiring process that would be suitable for police employment.
Chief Johnson noted these applicants would fill his attrition. Chief Johnson further explained he still
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Item #6.
needs to fill the positions that council authorized for the downtown area. Chief Johnson stated he
would continue to work on the process of finding appropriate members of the police department to fill
these positions. Chief Johnson said he would make it available for the October academy.
Responding to Mr. Neil, Chief Johnson explained the police department is organized on missions, and
all divisions, sections, and units, have a specific mission, and they are either at strength or under
strength; the SROs would be an additional mission and would have to wait until staff was available.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Chief Johnson stated most retired Delaware Police Officers are beyond the
age of eligibility for hire as a Dover Police officer. Chief Johnson also explained a mandatory year of
service retirement piece that is pension-related and age-related. Finally, Chief Johnson noted it was
not impossible but more improbable that a retired officer that made an entire career anywhere could
come and be a police officer for the Dover Police Department.
Responding to Mr. Contant, Chief Johnson stated he had discussed implementation with the schools.
Chief Johnson explained he would need to recruit and fill slots, and attrition would take the first
precedence as a priority. Chief Johnson noted the Dover Police Department is in an SRO relationship
with Capital School District. If they requested more officers, they would also need to be filled and
balance the downtown mission. Chief Johnson stated that 85% of the children attending this charter
school live in the incorporated limits of Dover, and there is a waiting list. Chief Johnson noted the
school would continue to grow and needed to be included in their safety program.
Responding to Mr. Contant, Chief Johnson stated they use a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
modeled after the state police that has existed for many years. Chief Johnson noted revisions made as
the law changed, but it is a basic relationship agreement that is a fee for services.
Chief Johnson stated he would prefer the contact from an accounting standpoint to match cost for
expense in a particular budget year. Chief Johnson said the first year is the heaviest because they must
account for gear and uniforms for a new officer. He stated that after those initial overhead costs are
incurred, the cost is lower; in years two and three. Chief Johnson further explained that year three is
slightly higher than year two because you must adjust for the Federal Order of Police contract and
anticipated raises.
Mayor Christiansen stated other schools had made inquiries, but they have not formalized those
inquiries and will return to the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee for the approvals
to facilitate the protection of our school children.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Chief Johnson confirmed the new Gun Legislation that the
President signed does include provisions for funding school security and SROs. However, Chief
Johnson noted there is no supplemental guidance on what the process is to be followed or what the
criteria will be.
Mr. Sudler asked for clarity on the staff recommendation compared to the Committee Action Form.
Mr. Sudler stated as a District 4 representative, the constituents are concerned about the safety, and
even though he supports SRO's he does not feel comfortable supporting this with the shortage of
workforce and the need in his view for the community police officers and everything that the
community is calling for with the loitering issues. Mr. Sudler noted to extend their workforce to charter
schools could be a Public Relations nightmare; he believes the timing is wrong. Mr. Sudler explained
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Item #6.
they are asking for more officers and utilizing the officers they do have. Mr. Sudler further explained
this is stretching them thin, and officers are needed to address concerns in the downtown and
surrounding areas. Mr. Sudler stated he did not feel comfortable at this time supporting staff
recommendations, nor did he support the concept in theory. Mr. Sudler noted that if the police
department was at full strength and concerns downtown, loitering, and business owners had decreased
tremendously, he would feel more comfortable supporting this initiative.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Chief Johnson stated that through regular attrition and the two additional
officers for downtown, the total is six officers, and then approved SRO would be added to that number.
Chief Johnson explained that after discussion with the City Manager, he applied for a COPS grant to
try and get additional federal funding to accelerate the process of finding the money necessary to
increase the downtown officers to five.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Chief Johnson stated conceptually that the idea was to have five officers
for the downtown area; however, council approved two officers. Chief Johnson explained the COPS
grant would potentially add an additional officer. Chief Johnson further explained that in the FY24
budget, if it allows, they could discuss adding the extra two officers to reach the goal of five officers
for downtown.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Chief Johnson stated regarding an SRO; it would depend on if the applicant
was a certified officer or if they would need to go through the academy. Additionally, Chief Johnson
clarified a new officer would not be an SRO; they would go into patrol, and they would find a veteran
officer to fill the SRO position.
Mr. Rocha stated he understood Council President Sudler's concerns, and it is something to consider
but at the same time, he is a proponent of taking care of our children. Mr. Rocha noted in the school
system we must realize that protections in the schools based on the current climate are very needed
and necessary to brace ourselves for the protection of our children.
Mr. Neil stated they have a moral obligation to do this. Mr. Neil said this is mission directed, and the
last person coming in on this after the downtown commitment would be the SRO's; it does not change
downtown at all. Mr. Neil explained the officers for the downtown area would be filled first, and the
SRO would be a separate mission from that, it would not detract from what had been promised for
downtown. Mr. Neil stated he supported the SRO's and morally did not feel they could turn their back
on any charter school or others, knowing that they would have to wait until they had the talent and
trained officers in those schools.
Mayor Christiansen stated he rarely disagrees with Mr. Sudler; he does understand his position, but
the media has helped identify one of the most vulnerable and soft targets we have in our country,
which is our children. Mayor Christiansen stated he would not want to sit there with his fellow
government officials and council members and explain why they were reluctant to act on protecting
the most valuable asset we have in our community.
Mayor Christiansen stated he was not criticizing Mr. Sudler because he is a man of his word. Mayor
Christiansen explained they had instructed the Chief to take on a mission of providing public safety
downtown. He now has another mission to protect the most vulnerable amongst us.
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Item #6.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Dr. Michelle Marinucci, Head of the Academy of Dover Charter School,
stated they have not increased in troubling behaviors but have been paying attention to what is
happening across the nation. Dr. Marinucci said there had been an increase in violent acts near or
around them. Dr. Marinucci noted that the school has grown to K-8 this year and is aware of the new
experiences that having older children may bring. Dr. Marinucci explained that when the shooting in
Michigan took place, their team came together and discussed how they would handle the situation. Dr.
Marinucci further explained they took many steps to be as proactive as possible to provide a safe
environment for their students.
Dr. Marinucci noted that several families reached out after the last school shooting to ask about having
police protection and adding an SRO. Dr. Marinucci explained she had mixed feeling about it, but in
the end, she did not want it on her conscience that she did not take that extra piece of safety and action.
Dr. Marinucci explained they had lockdowns because of reports of shootings and guns at Delaware
State University. She further explained that it just makes sense to be proactive and not wish they had
taken those steps, but to take those steps now, and they realized there is a funding component to it and
are fully prepared to pick that up and make that happen.
Dr. Marinucci stated that feeling safe is critical if you think about the hierarchy of needs. She explained
most of their students are Dover students, and many of their students have sad stories. Dr. Marinucci
stated she has one student that is going into sixth grade, and she knows the Dover Police because they
are the ones that have locked up her three brothers. Dr. Marinucci further explained they have been
able to have the Dover Police in their schools to have the students see our police as what they are
rather than the person that comes and takes my sibling away or my parent away. Having the police
presence in the school gives the kids a different example of what our officers can do and creates those
bonds and critical relationships. Dr. Marinucci recollected the dare officers when she started teaching
and how much the students enjoyed that relationship; it was Officer Ralph Taylor when she was
teaching. She remembered the difference that the students had. Dr. Marinucci stated her students live
on New Street, Queen Street, and downtown, and they are living things you would not watch on TV.
Dr. Marinucci stated she recognizes students have access to those items that cause harm in a school,
she did not believe their students or parents would do that, but she could not guarantee it. She said she
did not know that it would not be somebody just coming in off the street. To be proactive, they
requested the Dover Police Department come in, do a walkthrough around their building, and discuss
safety, security, and the next logical step to ensure that they do not ever have something tragic
happening in their school.
Mr. Sudler commended Dr. Marinucci for her proactive approach.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Dr. Marinucci stated that 95% of the student population is African
American, and 70% is in high poverty and need.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Chief Johnson confirmed the sex offender's unit is retired officers working
in a civilian capacity. Chief Johnson explained they lack a specific enforcement authority and have
sworn police powers, so they would not be eligible as an SRO. Chief Johnson further explained the
SRO's job is to be the person who will take on active shooters, and they do not carry full complemented
equipment.
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COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING JULY 12, 2022 PAGE 10
Item #6.
Mr. Rocha moved to recommend the approval of school resource officer requests, contingent
on funding from the requester, as recommended by staff. The motion was seconded by
Ms. Arndt and carried unanimously.
Engineering Services required to complete the Meeting House Branch Drainage Improvement Project
design (Sole Vendor) (Mark Nowak, Public Works Director)
Mr. Mark Nowak, Public Works Director, reviewed the background and analysis to use AECOM for
engineering services.
Staff recommended using AECOM (Sole Vendor) for engineering services required to complete the
Meeting House Branch Drainage Improvement Project design.
Mr. Neil recommended having the attorneys look at the contract to make sure all the i's are dotted
and t's are crossed.
Responding to Mr. Contant, Mr. Nowak stated the money was carried over before becoming Public
Works Director and was placed under construction. Mr. Nowak noted the Committee Action Form
said they would need to move the money out of construction and into engineering. Mr. Nowak stated
there is a State Bond Bill that covers the construction of this project and pursuant to park place
drainage.
Responding to Mr. Contant, Mr. Nowak stated it would cover from where the Meeting House Branch
ran, the parking lot at Bay Health, the hospital, across/under State Street, and then down to become an
open channel into the Meeting House Branch.
Responding to Mr. Contant, Mr. Nowak stated this would cover the engineering design; a portion will
go towards the actual testing. Once that is complete, they will receive a bill for remediation's expected
costs.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Mr. Nowak stated there was no bidding process; this is a Sole Vendor due
to their experience and expertise that handed in a proposal.
Mr. Sudler stated he was concerned with the perception. Mr. Sudler said he believed they should open
the bidding process to allow others to bid and show whether they are qualified or not unless there is a
time constraint or emergency that needs to be done immediately.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Mr. Nowak explained they have already done business with AECOM. Mr.
Nowak further explained that AECOM, formally known as URS, had been on this project since the
beginning, which is the reason for the recommendation. Mr. Nowak stated he did not see the reason
for the name change.
Mr. Sudler stated what the council is confronted with is that they have been scrutinized for not making
sure that minorities and minority contractors or other groups of contractors had the capability, had the
opportunity to bid, to show that they are capable of being able to perform the work. Mr. Sudler stated
he would not vote to support this because it is a sole vendor and did not allow anyone else to compete.
Ms. Arndt stated she believes it to be a substantial saving to the city because they already have the
designs and data associated with the project. She explained I think at this point, if they were to go with
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Item #6.
a different vendor, then that vendor would have to recreate all that information to move forward with
a project unless AECOM would just hand over all that information to a competitor.
Ms. Arndt stated she was comfortable with the justification for the sole source because of the project's
complexity. And because AECOM, a different company from URS, has worked on this project since
2014.
Responding to Mr. Neil, Mr. Nowak stated that if they sent out to rebid, it would be a significant delay
to the project, and the price could be higher than AECOM.
Mr. Rocha requested that in the future, the public bidding for construction, the council be made aware
of how the process will take place to ensure that a portion of the bidding is offered to minority
contractors. Mr. Rocha agreed with Ms. Arndt that with AECOM being too deep in the project, it
makes sense to continue the progress of this portion of the project.
Mr. Contant stated that URS works with multiple state municipalities as their contract engineer. Mr.
Contant explained that AECOM, a global engineering firm, bought them. Mr. Contant further
explained that his experience with AECOM has always been great to work with in reviewing projects
and comments. Mr. Contant stated he felt confident in their abilities to perform the work at hand,
especially considering that they are already in the process.
Mr. Contant stated in his experience that it would be very costly to switch engineers mid-project and
cause a delay. Mr. Contant explained lead time on materials could be six to nine months on top of the
delay. Mr. Contant agreed with Councilman Rocha to approve the award with the caveat that as the
construction goes out through the bidding process, council has set forth notes to council before it is
published. This way council will be aware of the process, know the timeline, and make them more
comfortable with what is being done in the guidelines and regulations that the city has set out.
Mr. Sudler stated that council must take a stand. Mr. Sudler explained they do not know whether the
process could stand scrutiny from its conception. Mr. Sudler further said that Mr. Nowak does not
know because it was before his time, which is no fault that you cannot answer this question, but they
do not know if it was an open bidding process where other people had to compete from conception.
Then the same individuals initially awarded the contract switched to another agency or were merged
or bought out. Then, there still was no opportunity for other contractors to compete.
Mr. Sudler stated that they do not know whether it was the initial conception or if it was open to the
public to compete for that bid in the bidding process. Mr. Sudler stated he would assume not, and then
they have the opportunity the second time where it could be open for others to compete. However,
instead of opening it for others to compete, they went with who already was on there, who was no
longer an organization providing that service. Mr. Sudler stated in his view that there are two
opportunities that they could have had that the city could have provided to competitors, to contractors
to compete for this engineering bid proposal. Mr. Sudler asked, when are they going to take a stand as
City Council and say enough is enough, whether it is your fault or someone else's fault, the perception
is, and how many years have they been dealing with this perception that minority contractors, and this
does not mean just African Americans or Caucasian women, Caucasian women are also minorities, or
Hispanics or Asians.
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Item #6.
Mr. Sudler stated the bottom line is the City of Dover has a perception that people perceive them as
not being fair in the bidding process and excluding certain groups of individuals. So when is City
Council going to take a stand?
Mr. Sudler acknowledged it might delay the project, they may get bids from someone who is more
qualified at a lesser price or may get a bid higher, but the bottom line is the integrity of the process is
not compromised. Mr. Sudler stated he felt if he voted for this, he would subject himself to saying it
is okay to compromise the integrity of the process because they already had this contractor at one
point. They know all about the contract, and they know about the specifics of the work and just rolled
them over, even though they are a new agency with new leadership, they rolled them over and handed
it to them without allowing others to compete.
Mr. Sudler stated they must allow other groups or individuals to compete, regardless of whether they
are comfortable with certain contractors performing the work because this is the go-to person they
have been going to and are qualified. Mr. Sudler noted there are other groups of individuals that may
be qualified and groups of contractors that may be qualified too. Therefore, Mr. Sudler explained they
must allow them the opportunity to compete.
Mr. Sudler stated this is not a scolding but a passion for hearing the contractors and the people who
have said to them an enormous number of times that they are not, the City of Dover is not opening
their bidding process for other individuals to compete. Mr. Sudler wanted to ensure a fair and equitable
process across the board.
Mr. Sudler stated sometimes you must go back and get it right; it may cost a little bit of money, but if
you don't go back and get it right, roll with the punches because this is how it's moving, it may bite
you in the end, and you may get hit with a class action lawsuit. Mr. Sudler urged others part of the
bidding process to please consider the message and hear what he is saying because, as councilpersons
representing their constituents, staff does not listen to what they say. When he sees an action like this
one, he empathizes with them.
Mr. Sudler stated he was a minority contractor and understood where the constituents came from. Mr.
Sudler stated whenever they have an opportunity to allow others to compete, to do it because, in the
end, they can say they allowed everyone to compete.
Mr. Rocha agreed with Mr. Sudler and stated that moving forward, he believes they need to look at
the process so that the council is informed of the process and can monitor it before it gets to this point.
Mr. Rocha recommended having provisions put in place where the council is notified of when it goes
out to bid and get a demographic reading of who submitted for bid, so they are informed that this is
the process along the way.
Mr. Rocha stated they have to work on a process that will enable minority contractors to have a fair
and equitable opportunity to compete without the rubber stamp. Mr. Rocha recommended providing
provisions for minority contractors to work with those larger companies, maybe as subcontractors, so
that they can even improve and learn on their craft and understand the overall business that may be
eliminating them as a grooming process so that there is a fair and equitable opportunity across the
board
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Item #6.
Mr. Rocha moved to recommend using AECOM (Sole Vendor) for engineering services required to
complete the Meeting House Branch Drainage Improvement Project design, as recommended by staff.
Mr. Neil seconded the motion.
Mayor Christiansen referred to the City of Dover Charter and stated they have an enforcer to ensure
policies and council's concerns are addressed, including the City Manager. Mayor Christiansen said
he believed if council instructed the City Manager to do so, he would have the ability and the tenacity
to follow through and make sure that all contracts that go out are fair and equitable to the people that
would place bids.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Mayor Christiansen stated the City's Central Service Director currently
handles most of the bids that the City of Dover puts out. Mayor Christiansen suggested the City
Manager reiterate council's concerns to the Central Services Director would be sufficient instead of
hiring another person.
Mr. Rocha moved to recommend using AECOM (Sole Vendor) for engineering services required
to complete the Meeting House Branch Drainage Improvement Project design, as recommended
by staff. The motion was seconded by Mr. Neil and passed with a vote of 6 yes and 1 no.
Adjustment to Police Promotion Process (Mayor Christiansen and Chief Johnson)
Mayor Christiansen stated this item was in response to council's desires to pursue inclusion, diversity,
and equity within the city departments across the board. Mayor Christiansen explained the proposal
Chief Johnson is bringing forward will increase promotional opportunities within the Dover Police
Department, across the board in fairness and equity, and build future leadership for the Dover Police
Department.
Chief Johnson reviewed the background and analysis of the proposed adjustment to the Police
Promotion Process.
Staff recommended approving the revised table as requested.
Tim Mullaney, Federal Order of Police (FOP) President, Lodge 15, Thanked the Mayor, Chief
Johnson, and the City Manager. Mr. Mullaney stated he had been deeply involved in the sense that
they want to build a relationship with the council in the city, and they recognize the direction that
council's going with recruitment retention, maintaining a solid employee base, and making sure that
it's fair and equitable for everybody.
Mr. Mullaney stated they have looked up and down the state and see other agencies, the amount they
are making, bonuses, and perks. Mr. Mullaney explained his job, as well as Vice President Jake Rankin
is to hone in on what they can do to maintain what they have going forward. Mr. Mullaney further
explained this was an opportunity with some things that came up, working with the Chief. This scale
was a big topic mainly for recruitment, retention, and allowing people to promote sooner. Mr.
Mullaney stated there are only a certain number of spots, which is very competitive.
Mr. Mullaney stated this would allow many people to promote themselves sooner and apply
themselves to be leaders, which is what they strive on; they want people to excel and move to the top
if they can.
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COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING JULY 12, 2022 PAGE 14
Item #6.
Mr. Mullaney stated with this scale of change in the April and March timeframe, when they first started
this out, what the financial climate would be for the city, they took that into consideration. Mr.
Mullaney explained they held off and said, "We'll work with the city," in the sense of when they can
implement this. Mr. Mullaney explained that when hiring the Chief, the FOP gave up a lot; they
understood that he would not come in and do a year or two and then leave. Mr. Mullaney stated they
knew it would be a long tenure and are happy that they could work with the Mayor, the Chief, and
City Manager on this.
Mr. Mullaney stressed that they would love to see this occur in a year or sooner. Mr. Mullaney
explained the reason for that is that everyday agencies even smaller than theirs are coming very close
to where they are at, if not over where they are in certain positions, mainly the corporal positions.
Mr. Mullaney stated a town just north of Dover, in year five, will be much higher than Dover in the
position of where they are in an agency that is a third of the size of Dover. Mr. Mullaney explained
that the FOP wants to make sure that they are maintaining and giving qualified people who want to
apply to be a Dover Police Officer because of the benefits they have and to come work for them. Mr.
Mullaney requested that if this can be implemented sooner than later, that's what the men and women
of the FOP Lodge 15 would like.
Responding to Mr. Sudler, Mr. Hugg stated he had been working with the Mayor, Chief, and the
FOP to look at this issue to make working for the City of Dover more attractive and more equitable,
and it is something that needs to be done.
Mr. Hugg stated in March that the city had a seven-and-a-half million-dollar deficit, and at that point
in time, they were unable to discuss this. Mr. Hugg said they closed the year in a better position than
they thought; with the council's support, they implemented new revenue streams that gave a bit of a
cushion. Mr. Hugg explained since then; however, council has added police officers, some things for
dispatchers, and the promise of an across-the-board bonus for everyone, including police officers. Mr.
Hugg stated they do not have the money to be able to spend to implement another $260,000 at this
time.
Mr. Hugg did say he was optimistic that energy prices are down a little bit, and things are looking a
little better, and he would have no problem agreeing to look at this issue moving forward in fiscal year
23. However, Mr. Hugg stated he did not believe they could make that kind of financial commitment
now, not with the other things that council has asked them to do. Mr. Hugg reminded council they are
underway on the wage study, and some positions will need to be looked at mid-year because they are
clearly below the market.
Mr. Hugg stated conceptually that he agreed with this proposal and needs to be done. However, Mr.
Hugg said it is a question of timing and that tonight he asked council not to commit to those monies
immediately. Mr. Hugg stated he would agree that they could look at it again as they move forward,
just as he wants to look at the energy costs, the electric rates, and things they promised our citizens.
Mr. Neil stated the first thing they will do what they need to do or the recommendation as he sees it is
to agree that this is something they will do at least by FY24. Mr. Neil stated that is the case; they can
always, as Mr. Hugg has indicated, revisit this if they find out that the money is there and that they
can do that. Mr. Neil explained they made a commitment to the police department, and for the entire
salary structure that they are going to do this, so he is in favor of it since it will not necessarily be this
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COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING JULY 12, 2022 PAGE 15
Item #6.
year, but it could be. Mr. Neil further explained that they had committed the police department to
attract and hold people and part of this total salary review for the city.
Responding to Mr. Contant, Chief Johnson stated when they move more officers to the rank of
Corporal two years sooner, the positions above will change. Chief Johnson explained by default; it
would move every supervisor rank above that up the equivalent number based on the chart steps and
grades.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Chief Johnson stated there is a very narrow window of time over the career
band where an officer can take the non-competitive corporal test. If they pass it, they are not competing
with the organization. They will get that second Stripe and the dollars that go with it. Chief Johnson
explained that there is a narrow band in that timeframe where they can take both tests and try and
compete for master corporal. Chief Johnson explained that the way the system is constructed, and you
bring in time and grade, time and service, evaluations, the written test, the oral boards, all those things
together, it is challenging to be a competitive candidate for a master corporal the first year that they
are eligible. Chief stated it is not impossible, but the last time it happened was more than a generation
ago, and it was a weird year where nine people got promoted because guys retired. Chief explained
numerically that it is possible, and statistically, it's improbable.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Hugg stated that he believes the city could have the funds in FY24.
Still, Mr. Hugg cautioned council that they could not close the door on possible revenue increases that
may be asked to support to pay for the services of the city employees. Mr. Hugg stated equity and
retention would cost money.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Hugg stated it would be easier to look at this simultaneously with the
pay study and compensation because he needs to track energy costs and revenues. Mr. Hugg mentioned
if the State of Delaware builds the new family court building in FY23, the city will increase revenue
for FY24.
Mr. Hugg stated he agreed with Mr. Neil to implement the police promotion process no later than
FY24 with the option to implement earlier if funding is available.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Hugg stated he did not know how much it would cost to increase
salaries in the pay study. Mr. Hugg noted that 12-15 positions were clearly below market value with
high turnover. Mr. Hugg explained that these are low to mid-level positions and will be a significant
amount to market value.
Mr. Mullaney noted the initial conversation regarding the police promotion process began in
December 2021 and was well in advance of knowing what the current climate was going to be
financially and what the council's direction was going to be as a city as a whole with all the other
employees. Mr. Mullaney noted that the FOP never tried to be ahead of any other union or employee;
all staff is essential. Mr. Mullaney explained all staff has one mission in the city: to make it successful
and make it a place where people want to come, live, and stay safe.
Mayor Christiansen stated that Councilman Neil made a great point that council and committee should
support this effort to implement it sooner than later. Mayor Christiansen said he believes Mr. Hugg
will do his due diligence. Mayor Christiansen explained they need to make that commitment the same
way they did a study of all the job classifications. Mayor Christiansen explained they have a map of
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COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING JULY 12, 2022 PAGE 16
Item #6.
where they need to go to assist the Dover Police Department in promotion, developing leadership, and
using it as a recruitment tool.
Mayor Christiansen noted that if somebody is going to join the Dover Police Department, and it will
take 6 to 8 years for them to become a corporal, that certainly is no incentive to stop and pick up an
application and become a Dover Police Officer. Mayor Christiansen thanked Mr. Neil for his due
process on that, and they should endorse this concept and work with the City Manager and the Chief
to implement this sooner rather than later or as fiscally possible.
Mr. Neil moved to recommend approving the revised table as requested for FY24, with the
possibility if funds are available to implement sooner than that. The motion was seconded by
Mr. Rocha and unanimously carried.
Mr. Neil moved for adjournment of the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee
meeting, seconded by Mr. Contant and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
Mr. Neil moved for adjournment of the Council Committee of the Whole meeting. The motion
was seconded by Ms. Arndt and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
Roy Sudler, Jr.
Council President
RS/re
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS\Committee-Minutes\TEMPLATES\COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE TEMPLATE.docx
Attachments
Attachment #1 - Council – President/District 4 Report
Attachment #2 - Mayor's Report
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ATTACHMENT #1
Council Committee of the Whole Meeting of 07/12/2022
Item #6.
Running head: COUNCIL-PRESIDENT/ DISTRICT 4 REPORT
Council-President/ District 4 Report
Roy Sudler, Jr.
City of Dover, Delaware
July 12, 2022
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Item #6.
Running head: COUNCIL-PRESIDENT/ DISTRICT 4 REPORT
2
Council-President/ District 4 Report
In the capacity of Council President, on June 16, 2022, I accompanied the City Manager
and Mayor at the House Majority Leaders Meeting at Delaware's Legislative Hall to support the
approval ofHB456. As you are aware, HB456 amending the City's Charter was sponsored by
31st District Representative Sean Lynn; at that time, I thanked representative Lynn and the
House Majority Leaders for approving our Charter Amendments.
On June 27, 2022, at 8:00 a.m., I conducted a second exploratory meeting with the City
Manager, Assistant City Manager, At Large Council Representative, 32 District House of
Representative, DDP Representative, and DSU Representative. However, Mr. Boyl, a DSU
representative, encountered a flight delay, causing him to be unable to attend the Meeting. The
Meeting focused on three key issues. The first issues discussed the City's Cast Iron Pipes for the
transmission of water to our constituents/consumers and a site visit to the Delaware State
University's Certified EPA Water Testing Laboratory. The second issue highlighted the Food
Desert Issues in Dover and how to potentially establish a Hydroponics and Aquafarming System
to cultivate a food culture of growing plants without soil vertically and growing fish in a
controlled environment for food consumption. Lastly, we discussed incentives for Delaware
Graduates and Senior Administrators of Postsecondary Education Institutions to Live in Dover
via M01igage Assistance Programs and City Incentives.
On July 9, 2022, at 1:00 noon, I met with seventy percent of the El Salvador
Congresspersons along with the Governor and Lt. Governor's Aid and 32 District House of
Representatives to engage in a conversation about the international exchange of resources, data,
and potential entrepreneurship initiatives. The discussion also entailed how they are decreasing
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Item #6.
Running head: COUNCIL-PRESIDENT/ DISTRICT 4 REPORT
3
gang activity and enterprise in EL Salvador. The Meeting was most beneficial and culturally
enlightening. At noon on July 11, 2022, I met with Fraternal Order Police President to discuss
some of their concerns. The topic centered on job satisfaction, retention rate, and equitable
treatment in the Dover Police Department. The Meeting was extraordinarily informative and
constructive, in which the FOP President did an impeccable job representing his
constituents/members.
On July 12, 2022, at 11 :23 p.m. I secured a conference call with Delaware State
University's Dr. Cherese Winstead Casson, Dean of the School's College of Agriculture, Science
and Technology and a chemistry professor. To secure a site visit to DSU's Certified EPA Water
Testing Lab to discuss a partnership in lobbying for Federal Funds to address the Quality of
Water Issues and corrective action strategies for sustainable drinking water initiatives for the
Capital of Delaware.
As District 4 Representative for City Council, I help conduct two town hall meetings,
one in June 2022 and the other in July 2022. In June 2022, an array of topics were discussed,
such as the need to strengthen police and community engagement, loitering, and some
resolutions for addressing specific social problems such as constituents/homeless individuals
confronted with mental illness. July's Meeting focused on infrastructure concerns for downtown
and strategies for mitigating loitering and deviant behavior in the downtown domain. Both
meetings were very productive. Today, with the help of the Assistant City Manager (Ms. Sharon
Duca), I have resolved one complaint focused on a side-walk repair in the Woodcrest community
near 911 Wilson Drive. Additionally, I have fulfilled a request by another constituent to provide
the geographical location of all the downtown cameras for the business owners to review and
record. That concludes my report for June and July 2022.
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ATTACHMENT #2
Council Committee of the Whole Meeting of 07/12/2022
Item #6.
IJftfp#
Mayor's Report for June 2022 /~';I
1. Press conference with Attorney General Jennings guns off the street.
2. Special Council meeting and Regular Meeting.
3. Council Workshop at Maple Dale.
4. Spanish Festival at South Dover Elementary.
5. Ribbon Cutting at Tommy Car Wash.
6. Attended Rotary Meeting$
7. Safe Haven Event at Williams Park.
8. Morning Up Ceremony at South Dover Elementary.
9. Met with Executive Director Dover Kent MPO.
10. Attended funeral for Bishop Nelson Lewis.
11. Swearing in of the Fire Marshal.
12. Decertification Hearing for COPT.
13. Met with DAR for plaque placement.
14. Attended Positively Dover African American Festival.
15. Met with FOP Board Lodge #15.
16. Met with Col. Huseman from DAFB.
17. Swore in City Treasurev'Peddicord.
18. Attended Regular Council Meeting.
19. Met with Realtors monthly meeting.
20. Attended Friends of John Dickinson Annual Meeting.
21. Attended DDP Economic Vitality Meeting.
22. Attended former Chief Bernat's mother's funeral.
f<t74t1b
23. Swore in City Solicitor.
24. Attended Kent County Tourism meeting.
25. Attended meeting with City Staff/Personnel and Legal Matters.
26. Cut Ribbon for Harmony Senior Living.
27. Met with DVFA 100th Anniversary Committee.
28. Attended Friends of Old Dover Annual meeting.
29. Attended Central Delaware Houseifi nd Annual Event.
30. Attended Comic Con Event.
31. Attended Salary Discussions Committee.
32. Attended Fishing Derby at Silver Lake.
33. Attended Roll ~all~ of D9yer PD. ABCD platoor,rand special units. ~
CA v, k lM'\ M~
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Item #6.
34. Attended Kent Economic Partnership Board Meeting. ~~ .,J..iA J
35. Attended 101st Birthday Gordon Blythe.? A/' ,,,did Jt-
36. Attended DDP Board Meeting. 1)1_,1,.~
37. Attended Girls State with Shadow~- n1o/" ~ l,,C,f/".
38. Spoke at the Class of 2022 Graduation of James H. Groves at Del Tech.
39. Attended Delaware League of Local Government Executive Board
Meeting.
40. Attended Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce Awards for
excellence.
41. Dedicated DAR plaque at~tution Park.
42. Attended a community m.(j;@tiAg at the Well Church.
43. Attended the 2nd Annual African Heritage Music Celebration.
44. Attended NCALL and DSU event with Congresswoman Lisa Blunt
Rochester.
45. Attended Charles Guerin Director of the Biggs Museum retirement
event.
46. Met with Mike Harrington and Councilman Anderson.
47. Attended ESGR ceremony. 5~rii ~~ ~ ~
48. COVID working group meeting. ~ tR ~ 1
p-tlf'; f-t> c
49. Groundbreaking for the Temple of Deliverance.
SO. Various handling of constituent concerns in office and on site.
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Item #22.
City Council Meeting
CITY OF DOVER
July 25, 2022
FISCAL YEAR JULY 1, 2021 TO JUNE 30, 2022
1 of 2
PRELIMINARY QUARTERLY REVENUE REPORT
As of June 30, 2022
FY22 FY22 100%
ORIGINAL REVISED YTD % BUDGET FY21 FY20
GENERAL FUND BUDGET BUDGET REVENUES RECEIVED COMMENTS REVENUES REVENUES
1 Property Taxes $ 14,715,000 $ 14,715,000 $ 14,709,100 100.0% $ 14,328,100 $ 14,123,800
2 Payment In Lieu of Taxes 552,700 552,700 532,000 96.3% 514,400 560,300
3 Transfer from Electric Fund 11,000,000 11,000,000 11,000,000 100.0% 10,000,000 10,000,000
4 Intrafund Service Receipts Electric 3,641,442 3,641,442 3,390,200 93.1% 3,098,200 2,874,100
5 Transfer from Transfer Tax Fund 1,400,000 2,800,000 3,867,100 138.1% 4,833,300 1,828,000
6 Business Licenses 1,500,000 1,500,000 1,400,900 93.4% 1,378,100 1,408,200
7 Intrafund Service Receipts Water 993,721 993,721 925,200 93.1% 845,500 676,300
8 Intrafund Service Receipts Wastewater 715,837 715,837 666,400 93.1% 609,100 676,300
9 Sanitation Fees 3,421,000 3,421,000 3,371,700 98.6% 3,125,100 3,080,900
10 Permits & Other Licenses 1,400,000 1,564,000 1,746,600 111.7% 1,595,700 1,059,800
11 Transfer from Municipal Street Aid Fund 750,000 792,000 792,300 100.0% 797,800 796,200
12 Fines & Police Revenue 630,300 511,600 505,600 98.8% 442,700 571,500
13 Police Extra Duty Fees 370,000 370,000 394,200 106.5% 146,700 470,900
14 Transfer from Police Grant Funds 130,000 130,000 203,400 156.5% 221,000 219,900
15 Transfer from Police Fed Grant Funds 308,900 308,900 156,300 50.6% We have not received the last two qtrs COPS Grant. - -
16 Court of Chancery Fees 1,400,000 2,000,000 1,929,600 96.5% 1,658,600 1,602,400
17 Transfer from Water/Wastewater Fund 1,000,000 1,000,000 1,000,000 100.0% 1,000,000 1,000,000
18 Transfer from Civil Traffic Penalties Fund 400,000 250,000 172,400 69.0% We have not received May and June pymts. 267,100 430,300
19 Library Revenues & County Reciprocal Pymt 392,100 360,800 260,600 72.2% We have not received the qtrly pymt for April to June. 79,000 329,500
20 Franchise Fees 600,000 600,000 457,300 76.2% We have not received for the last quarter. 592,300 617,500
21 General Fund Grant Receipts 1,193,500 706,000 802,800 113.7% 1,294,600 625,700
22 Recreation Revenue 110,000 100,000 128,800 128.8% 46,500 84,900
23 Other Miscellaneous Receipts 115,000 339,600 369,600 108.8% 203,300 110,900
24 Interest Income 90,000 90,000 89,700 99.7% 92,700 291,200
TOTALS $ 46,829,500 $ 48,462,600 $ 48,871,800 100.8% $ 47,169,800 $ 43,438,600
Final Budget $ 47,169,800 $ 43,438,600
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Item #22.
City Council Meeting
CITY OF DOVER
July 25, 2022
FISCAL YEAR JULY 1, 2021 TO JUNE 30, 2022
2 of 2
PRELIMINARY QUARTERLY REVENUE REPORT
As of June 30, 2022
FY22 FY22 100.0%
ORIGINAL REVISED YTD % BUDGET FY21 FY20
WATER FUND BUDGET BUDGET REVENUES RECEIVED COMMENTS REVENUES REVENUES
1 Water Fees $ 6,353,800 $ 6,100,000 $ 6,144,800 100.7% $ 5,777,200 $ 5,557,800
2 Water Impact Fees 420,000 160,000 176,700 110.4% 172,100 215,900
3 Water Tank Space Leasing 436,700 408,600 502,800 123.1% Billed 100% at beginning of FY and includes PY accruals. 529,800 374,900
4 Interest Income 34,000 8,900 16,200 182.0% 9,500 43,500
5 Other Miscellaneous Revenues 104,600 30,000 89,700 299.0% 223,204 26,900
TOTALS $ 7,349,100 $ 6,707,500 $ 6,930,200 103.3% $ 6,711,804 $ 6,219,000
Final Budget $ 6,711,804 $ 6,219,000
FY22 100.0%
ORIGINAL REVISED YTD % BUDGET FY21 FY20
WASTEWATER FUND BUDGET BUDGET REVENUES RECEIVED COMMENTS REVENUES REVENUES
1 Wastewater Fees 4,709,500 4,153,500 4,349,200 104.7% 4,232,200 3,615,700
2 Wastewater Adjustment Fees - County Trtmt 3,275,100 3,275,100 3,022,600 92.3% 3,122,500 3,108,400
3 Groundwater Inflow Adjustment 2,023,100 1,621,000 2,013,800 124.2% 1,948,300 1,804,000
4 Wastewater Impact Fees 380,000 162,700 177,000 108.8% 151,700 211,500
5 Interest Income 20,000 20,000 11,200 56.0% 1,900 5,600
6 Other Miscellaneous Revenues 62,900 50,200 33,400 66.5% 38,200 7,100
TOTALS $ 10,470,600 $ 9,282,500 $ 9,607,200 103.5% $ 9,494,800 $ 8,752,300
Final Budget $ 9,494,800 $ 8,752,300
FY22 FY22 100.0%
ORIGINAL REVISED YTD % BUDGET FY21 FY20
ELECTRIC REVENUE FUND BUDGET BUDGET REVENUES RECEIVED COMMENTS REVENUES REVENUES
1 Sales to Customers $ 81,960,900 $ 78,921,000 $ 77,465,400 98.2% $ 77,492,200 $ 78,671,000
2 Distribution of Earnings (5,196,000) (5,196,000) (5,060,700) 97.4% (5,007,800) (2,727,100)
3 Utility Tax 1,271,500 1,182,500 1,151,100 97.3% 1,137,000 1,223,200
4 Rate Stabilization Reserve 2,800,000 2,800,000 2,800,000 100.0% 3,000,000 -
5 Miscellaneous Revenue 850,000 957,700 1,137,500 118.8% 263,000 1,049,400
6 Interest Income 175,000 100,000 138,300 138.3% 145,554 280,800
TOTALS $ 81,861,400 $ 78,765,200 $ 77,631,600 98.6% $ 77,029,954 $ 78,497,300
Final Budget $ 77,029,954 $ 78,497,300
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FINAL READING
Item #25.
City of Dover
PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2022-07
1 BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL
2 MET:
3 That Chapter 2 – Administration, Article II - City Council, Section 2-201 - Compensation and expenses for
4 mayor, council, and other elected or appointed officials be amended by inserting the text indicated in bold,
5 blue, and deleting the text indicated in red strikeout as follows:
6 Sec. 2-201. - Compensation and expenses for mayor, council, and other elected or appointed officials.
7
8 (a) Fees established. In accordance with section 12 of the Charter, authorizing the council to establish
9 compensation and expenses for the mayor, council members, and other elected or appointed officials,
10 the following fees are hereby established:
11 (1) Mayor. The mayor shall receive an annual salary of $45,000.00 $52,000.00 (FY 2023). In
12 addition, the mayor shall receive an expense allotment of up to $5,000.00, to be included in the city's
13 annual budget for miscellaneous expenses, to be reimbursed upon submission of receipts or proper
14 documentation. Expenses in excess of this amount shall only be permitted by council approval. The
15 mayor shall be entitled to all benefits customary to an employee of the city, except pension benefits,
16 and sick and vacation leave.
17 (2) Council members generally. Each council member shall receive an annual salary of $7,416.00
18 $18,000.00 (FY 2023), to be paid monthly. The council president shall receive an annual salary of
19 $8,652.00 $23,000.00 (FY 2023), to be paid monthly. Council members shall receive reimbursement
20 for actual and necessary expenses incurred when on official business as prescribed by ordinance or
21 policy.
22 (3) Board of assessment appeals. Each appointed member of the board sitting to hear appeals from
23 the municipal assessment shall receive $75.00 per diem reimbursement for expenses for the
24 preparation and attendance at each meeting of the board of assessment appeals.
25 (4) Nonemployee election officers. Each person not a city employee appointed to serve as an election
26 judge for any municipal election shall receive $200.00 for per diem reimbursement for each election
27 attended. Each person chosen to serve as a clerical assistant for any municipal election shall receive
28 $150.00 for per diem reimbursement for each election attended.
29 (5) Employee election officers. Employees of the city appointed to serve as election judges or
30 officials for any municipal election shall receive $150.00 for per diem reimbursement for expenses
31 for each municipal election attended in addition to their regular salary.
P.O. Box 475 Dover, Delaware 19903
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Community Excellence Through Quality Service
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Item #25.
DRAFT ORDINANCE #2022-07 PAGE 2
32 (6) Appointee to council committee. Each appointed member to any city council committee, not
33 serving an elected term to any city office, shall receive $75.00 for preparation and attendance at each
34 committee meeting to which the member is appointed.
35 (7) Employee on council committee. Any city employee appointed to a council committee shall
36 receive $25.00 for reimbursement for expenses per diem for each meeting attended which is held
37 after 5:00 p.m. on a scheduled workday or at any time on a weekend or city-approved holiday.
38 (8) Planning commission. Each appointed member of the planning commission shall receive $100.00
39 per diem reimbursement for expenses to be paid monthly for preparation and attendance at each
40 meeting of the planning commission.
41 (9) Board of adjustment. Each appointed member of the board of adjustment shall receive $75.00 per
42 diem reimbursement for expenses to be paid monthly for preparation and attendance at each meeting
43 of the board of adjustment.
44 (Code 1981, § 2-70; Ord. of 9-14-1987; Ord. of 8-27-1990; Ord. of 11-26-1990, § 1; Ord. of 1-11-1993;
45 Ord. of 6-27-1994; Ord. of 2-24-1997(2); Ord. of 1-10-2000; Ord. of 10-9-2000; Ord. of 1-22-2001; Ord.
46 of 6-24-2002; Ord. of 6-25-2007; Ord. No. 2009-16, 7-27-2009; Ord. No. 2009-23, 10-26-2009; Ord. No.
47 2009-17, 11-9-2009; Ord. No. 2017-09 , 8-14-2017; Ord. No. 2019-18 , 9-9-2019)
48 ADOPTED: *
49 S:\ORDINANCES\2022\DRAFT\ORDINANCE #2022-07 - COMPENSATION\Ordinance #2022-07 FINAL READING.wpd
50 SYNOPSIS
51 This ordinance updates mayor and councilmembers salaries to be consistent with HB 456 - An Act to amend
52 the Charter of the City of Dover. Also, by removing "to be paid monthly" will allow council to be paid with
53 staff. This change is intended to improve efficiency and ensure effective coordination among all
54 departments.
55 (SPONSORS: SUDLER AND ANDERSON)
56 Actions History
57 06/28/2022 - Council Committee of the Whole/Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee
58 07/11/2022 - First Reading
59 07/25/2022 - Scheduled for Final Reading
P.O. Box 475 Dover, Delaware 19903
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Community Excellence Through Quality Service