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REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular City Council Meeting was held on July 8, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. with Council President
Anderson presiding. Council members present were Mr. Hare, Mr. Boggerty, Mr. Neil,
Dr. Pillsbury, Ms. Arndt, Mr. Rocha, and Mr. Lewis (in at 6:29 p.m. and out at 7:06 p.m.).
Dr. Sudler was absent.
Staff members present were Police Chief Johnson, Ms. Marney, Mr. Hugg, Ms. Melson-
Williams, Chief Carey, Mr. Junge, and Ms. Bennett. Mayor Christiansen was also present.
OPEN FORUM
The Open Forum was held at 6:15 p.m., prior to commencement of the Official Council Meeting.
Council President Anderson declared the Open Forum in session and reminded those present that
Council was not in official session and could not take formal action.
There was no one present wishing to speak during the Open Forum.
INVOCATION
The invocation was given by Councilman Boggerty.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Councilwoman Dr. Pillsbury.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Boggerty, and unanimously
carried (Sudler absent).
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 requests, in which event the matter shall be removed from the
Consent Agenda and considered a separate item.
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the consent agenda. The motion was seconded by
Dr. Pillsbury and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Sudler absent).
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 24, 2024
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of June 24, 2024, were unanimously approved
by motion of Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the consent agenda. The motion was seconded
by Dr. Pillsbury and carried by a unanimous roll call vote (Sudler absent).
COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
The Council Committee of the Whole met on June 25, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. with
Council President Anderson presiding. Members of Council present were Ms.
Arndt, Mr. Boggerty, Mr. Hare, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Neil, Dr. Pillsbury, Mr. Rocha,
and Mr. Sudler (arrived at 6:20 p.m.). Mayor Christiansen was also present.
Civilian members present for their Committee meetings were Mr. Iriowen
(Utility), Mr. Garfinkel, and Mr. Shevock (arrived at 6:14 p.m. via WebEx),
(Legislative, Finance, and Administration). Mr. Pugh (Utility) was absent.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 08, 2024 PAGE 2
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Mr. Neil moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Boggerty and
unanimously carried.
UTILITY COMMITTEE
The Utility Committee met with Chairman Neil presiding.
Adoption of Agenda
Mr. Boggerty moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Dr. Pillsbury
and unanimously carried.
Annual Review and Approval of Governing Policy for Energy Commodity
Risk Management (David S. Hugg, III, City Manager, and Paul Waddell,
Electric Director)
Mr. David S. Hugg, III, City Manager reviewed the Governing Policy for Energy
Commodity Risk Management.
Staff recommended approving the Governing Policy for Energy Commodity for
Risk Management as presented.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Hugg stated that the policy is the same as
previously presented.
Responding to Mr. Iriowen, Mr. Hugg stated that the policy was last reviewed on
January 23, 2023. He explained that per the code, the city must adopt the policy
on an annual basis.
Mr. Hare moved to recommend accepting the staff recommendation. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Boggerty and unanimously carried.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Dr. Pillsbury and carried by unanimous roll call vote (Sudler absent).
Mr. Neil moved for adjournment of the Utility Committee meeting, hearing
no objection the meeting adjourned at 6:06 p.m.
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee met with Chairman
Rocha presiding.
Adoption of Agenda
Ms. Arndt moved for adoption of the agenda, seconded by Dr. Pillsbury and
unanimously carried.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 08, 2024 PAGE 3
Proposed Ordinance #2024-27 – Amending Appendix F – Fees and Fines:
Chapter 82 – Planning, Appendix A – Subdivisions, and Appendix B –
Zoning (David S. Hugg, III, City Manager, and Dawn Melson-Williams,
Principal Planner)
Mr. David S. Hugg, III, City Manager, and Ms. Dawn Melson-Williams, Principal
Planner, reviewed the changes in Proposed Ordinance #2024-27.
Staff recommended approving Proposed Ordinance #2024-27.
Responding to Ms. Arndt, Ms. Melson-Williams stated that they did look at some
adjacent jurisdictions such as Kent County, Smyrna, Milford, and Newark. She
explained that it proved hard to complete direct comparisons because, in many
cases, they do not have professional planning staff, and the reviews are completed
by a consultant, so the cost is higher. She stated that the directive from the city
manager was to look at a three percent increase while considering the ease of
calculation and the reasonableness of the fee.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Ms. Melson-Williams stated that the amount
of time staff spends on a particular application is not recouped in the application
fees. She explained that when a building goes to construction, the permit fees in
most cases cover things such as the Planning Commission and the Board of
Adjustment, both of which have stipends per meeting and public notice ads.
However, the fees do not cover the per hour by staff.
Responding to Mayor Christiansen, Ms. Melson-Williams stated that they could
consider reflecting the staff time spent in the fees, however, it is very hard to
calculate because every site plan varies in required staff time.
Ms. Arndt moved to recommend accepting the staff recommendation. The
motion was seconded by Dr. Pillsbury and carried with Mr. Lewis voting no.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for approval of the Committee’s recommendation,
seconded by Dr. Pillsbury and carried by unanimous roll call vote (Sudler absent).
Mr. Anderson recommended looking into a biennial cost of living adjustment to
the fees, so they stay current with inflation. He explained that the idea was
presented around 2014.
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Ms. Melson-Williams stated that there are
miscellaneous fees that go into the general fund. She further explained that the
total amount, which includes the presented fees and several other items collected
by the planning office, is about $20,000 per year.
Discussion – Update on Joint Use Agreement with Dover Air Force Base
(DAFB) (David S. Hugg, III, City Manager)
Mr. David S. Hugg, III, City Manager, updated council and committee members
on the Joint Use Agreement with the Dover Air Force Base (DAFB).
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 08, 2024 PAGE 4
Committee action was not required.
Mr. Hugg emphasized that the original agreement was set to expire in 2020,
however, several extensions have been granted. He stated that a newly revised
joint-use agreement has currently been provided to the Secretary of Defense for a
signature.
Mr. Hugg explained that some benefits of the new agreement include the removal
of the landing fee, the elimination of the requirement for prior authorization to
land, which previously had to be done 24 hours in advance, and an increase in the
number of takeoffs and landings from 13,500 to 25,000. He emphasized that the
agreement will be for 50 years and will allow for civilian aircraft of all sizes, not
just large aircraft, and includes the use of both runways. Mr. Hugg further
explained that the agreement recognizes the opportunity for important economic
development for the City of Dover, including aircraft maintenance and repair and
possible logistical operations.
Mayor Christiansen stated that the city has been in contact with major air carriers
who have outgrown their hubs in other cities like Baltimore, Washington,
Philadelphia, and Liberty, New Jersey. He emphasized that a captive audience
retires with certain skills in fixing airplanes and unloading them. The goal is to
keep them in Dover to be part of the community, helping improve the schools and
making Dover a better place to live. Mayor Christiansen explained that with the
expanded joint-use agreement, the goal is to create job opportunities in
cooperation with the Capital School District, Polytech High School, and Delaware
Technical Community College for young people in the community interested in
pursuing careers in aircraft maintenance, loading, and unloading. He further
explained that it would provide the city with the opportunity to create additional
warehouses.
Mr. Boggerty stated that as a veteran, he has seen firsthand how the proposed
expansion can benefit the city just like it has in Charleston, South Carolina. He
explained that in Charleston, when someone lands, half of the base is military and
the other half is civilian, which has created well-paying jobs. He stated that many
of the people he was previously stationed with left because there were no jobs
available in their career fields after leaving the military. Mr. Boggerty emphasized
that another challenge will be updating the infrastructure and housing
accommodations, but he is excited to see the city grow.
Dr. Pillsbury stated that Eglin Air Force Base has grown the civilian component
of the airport dramatically in the last 40 years and she would like to see private
flights out of Dover. She explained that to the best of her knowledge, Dover is the
only Air Force base without a commercial airport, or the only state capital without
a city airport. She emphasized that the changes would be a great service to the
people in the area.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 08, 2024 PAGE 5
Mr. Rocha moved for adjournment of the Legislative, Finance, and
Administration Committee meeting, hearing no objection the meeting
adjourned at 6:28 p.m.
Mr. Anderson moved for adjournment of the Council Committee of the
Whole meeting, hearing no objection the meeting adjourned at 6:29 p.m.
By consent agenda, Mr. Neil moved for acceptance of the Council Committee of the Whole
Report, seconded by Dr. Pillsbury and carried by unanimous roll call vote (Sudler absent).
MONTHLY REPORTS – MAY 2024
By motion of Mr. Neil, seconded by Dr. Pillsbury (Sudler absent), the following
monthly reports were accepted by consent agenda:
City Council’s Community Enhancement Fund Report
City Manager’s Report
Controller/Treasurer’s Budget Report
Fire Chief’s Report
Police Chief's Report
TITLE VI REQUIREMENTS AND PROPOSED PROCEDURES
Mr. Jason Lyon, Water/Wastewater Director, provided an update on the flyers distributed to all
water customers in the City of Dover, requesting information on the material of their water lines.
He mentioned that this was a federally mandated part of the Lead and Copper Rule, and flyers
were sent to 13,000 customers, and 1,000 people responded to the survey.
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mr. Lyon stated that they do not have any records of anything on the
private side, as the department only owns the water lines up to the property line, anything beyond
that was not recorded. He appreciated that the constituents were advised to call the Water &
Wastewater Department, which offers a service to assist with identifying water line materials.
Mr. Lyon noted that they have already helped an estimated 50 people with identifying the
material for the water lines in their house.
Mr. Jason Lyon, Water/Wastewater Director, reviewed the Title VI Requirements and Proposed
Procedures.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Lyon stated that it was a mixed bag. Upon receiving the
requirement from the EPA, they had a good liaison with the federal government assisting them.
He mentioned that there are plenty of templates available. For example, Oakland Bay Authority
had someone who was their sole position, other municipalities would have a split role, depending
on the size.
Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Lyon explained that if a case were to involve the Human
Relations Commission, they would need to adhere to the State of Delaware’s retention policy
regarding the duration for which the case must be saved. They would need to coordinate with the
City Clerk’s office to make sure the information is stored properly.
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Responding to Mr. Rocha, Mr. Lyon stated that if anyone feels wronged in relation to any of the
13 protected classes listed on the form, there is a form available for reporting such issues. This
could open the door for involvement, not only for water and wastewater concerns but also for
other departments. Given the Human Relations Commission's inactivity, Mr. Lyon noted that the
policy would be citywide.
Responding to Ms. Arndt, Mr. Lyon stated that the EPA was flexible about having a designated
name for the position, and it can be changed if someone changes their position. He emphasized
the need to stay on top of such changes. Mr. Lyon explained that the city has received funding
from the EPA before, though he could not confirm if that particular aspect was a requirement in
the past.
Mr. Anderson emphasized that there has been a regulatory change within the past two (2) years.
The federal government has modified several grants, updated regulations, and established
procedural policies in transportation and infrastructure. These changes were made pursuant to the
bipartisan infrastructure bill.
Responding to Mr. Lewis, Mr. Lyon stated that the city would receive federal funding through
the Omnibus package, which is several bills put together into one big funding source and issued
through the EPA.
Responding to Mr. Neil, Mr. Lyon noted that they have received a pre-award of $1.8 million for
water quality improvements, but the funds cannot be disbursed until all requirements are met.
Mr. Neil moved to implement the proposed procedures, including the new intake form to
comply with federal funding requirements, seconded by Mr. Boggerty and carried by a roll
call vote, seven (7) yes (Hare, Boggerty, Neil, Pillsbury, Arndt, Rocha, Anderson), one (1)
abstain (Lewis), and one (1) absent (Sudler).
FIRST READING PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2024-27 – AMENDING APPENDIX F-
FEES AND FINES: CHAPTER 82 – PLANNING, APPENDIX A – SUBDIVISIONS,
APPENDIX B - ZONING (DAVID S. HUGG, III, CITY MANAGER AND DAWN
MELSON-WILLIAMS, PRINCIPAL PLANNER)
Ms. Dawn Melson-Williams, Principal Planner, reviewed Proposed Ordinance #2024-27
– Amending Appendix F – Fees and Fines: Chapter 82 – Planning, Appendix A –
Subdivisions, Appendix B – Zoning.
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 #2024-27 – AMENDING APPENDIX F- FEES AND FINES:
CHAPTER 82 – PLANNING, APPENDIX A – SUBDIVISIONS, APPENDIX B
- ZONING
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FINAL READING PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2024-22 – AMENDING
CHAPTER 26 – BUSINESSES, ARTICLE II – LICENSES, AND APPENDIX F –
FEES AND FINES (DAVID S. HUGG, III, CITY MANAGER)
Mr. Neil moved that the Final Reading of the proposed ordinance be acknowledged by title
only, seconded by Mr. Rocha, and unanimously carried. (Sudler absent) (The First Reading
of the proposed ordinance was accomplished during the Council Meeting of June 24, 2024.)
Mr. David Hugg, III, City Manager, reviewed Proposed Ordinance #2024-22 –
Amending Chapter 26 – Businesses, Article II – Licenses, and Appendix F – Fees and
Fines. Chapter 82 – Planning, Appendix A – Subdivisions, Appendix B – Zoning.
By motion of Mr. Boggerty, seconded by Mr. Rocha, by a roll call vote, seven (7) yes (Hare,
Boggerty, Pillsbury, Arndt, Rocha, Sudler, Anderson), one (1) no (Lewis) and one (1)
absent (Sudler) adopted Ordinance #2024-22 as follows:
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN
COUNCIL MET:
That Chapter 26 – Business, Article II – Licenses, be amended to read as follows:
Sec. 26-31. Definitions.
The following words, terms, and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
Advertising agency means every person engaged in the business of displaying advertising
matter by billboards, posters or circulars, signs or window displays, or undertaking the writing or
composition of advertisements for other persons on a commission, rental, or flat fee basis.
Amusement operator means every person or company engaged in the business of exhibiting
public amusements, such as rides, games, demonstrations, and sideshows. This category shall
include circuses, amusement parks, and carnivals, but shall not include persons defined as
Entertainers.
Architect means every person engaged in the business of designing, planning, and
technically supervising the construction of any building, edifice, or other structural unit.
ATM machines (third-party or off bank premises) means each machine that offers limited or
full banking services.
Attorney-at-law means every individual duly admitted to the bar of any court of this state
and engaged in the active practice of such profession, whether self-employed or a member or
employee of a law firm or private corporation.
Auctioneer means every person engaged in the business of crying sales of real or personal
property on behalf of other persons for profit, except as otherwise provided by this article. No
auctioneer shall be authorized by virtue of the license granted to employ any other person to act
as auctioneer in his behalf, except in his own store or warehouse or in his presence, nor shall the
term "auctioneer" apply or extend to a judicial or executive officer making sales in pursuance of
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any execution, judgment, or decree of any court, nor to public sales made by executors or
administrators.
Automobile race operator includes every person in the business of conducting motor
vehicle races for profit, including competition involving all recognized classes of stock, modified
or sports car, midget racers, drag racers, and every type of motor vehicle in any form of race,
competition, or time trial. For purposes of this license, motorcycle races shall be included in such
definition.
Bank and loan and trust company mean each bank, or building and loan association, or trust
company, including non-deposit and limited-service banks.
Barber means every person operating a business of shaving the beard and cutting, trimming,
washing, waving, or otherwise dressing the hair of human beings.
Beautician means any person operating a business of doing work which is generally and
usually performed by so-called hairdressers, cosmetologists, beauticians, or beauty culturists and
however denominated in so-called hairdressing and beauty shops, which work is for the
embellishment, cleanliness, and beautification of women.
Bottler means any person engaged in the business of bottling from the bulk all beverages
commonly known as soft drinks, whether the beverages shall be prepared in whole or in part by
the bottler.
Broker means every person operating a business of buying and selling for the account of
other persons for a commission or for profit, stocks, bonds, currency, negotiable paper,
securities, and any other intangible personal property.
Car wash includes every person operating a continuing business of cleaning, washing, or
waxing motor vehicles for profit and not for charitable or educational purposes.
Certified public accountant means every individual qualified and registered under the laws
of the state to practice as a certified public accountant and engaged in the active practice of such
profession, whether self-employed or a member or employee of a firm or private corporation.
Cesspool cleaner means every person engaged in the business of cleaning cesspools for
profit or reward.
Chiropodist and podiatrist mean every person engaged in the practice of caring for the feet
of human beings.
Chiropractor means every person engaged in the practice of treating human ailments by
means of muscular or bone manipulation.
Clinical social worker includes every person qualified under the laws of the state to practice
social work and engaged in active practice of such profession.
Coin-operated amusement machine owner means any person engaged in the business of
owning and operating, on his own account or by his agent, or leasing to or placing with another
on a commission or other basis, any coin-operated machine, device, or table upon or by means of
which games are played by the general public for amusement and entertainment, but not for the
purpose of obtaining any money or other thing of value.
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Coin-operated vending machine owner means any person engaged in the business of
owning and operating, on his own account or by his agent, or leasing to or placing with another
on a commission or other basis, any coin-operated vending machine, contrivance or device
which, upon the insertion of a coin, slug, token, plate, disc or key into any slot, crevice or other
opening, or by the payment of any price, operates or may be operated for the emission of goods
or services. Coin-operated stamp vending machines owned by the United States government and
any pay telephone shall be exempted from any taxation.
Coin-operated video machine means any person engaged in the business of owning and
operating, on his own account or by his agent, or leasing to or placing with another on a
commission or other basis, any coin-operated video machine, device, or table upon or by means
of which games are played by the general public for amusement and entertainment, but not for
the purpose of obtaining any money.
Commercial sign business includes all persons engaged in an outside sign advertising
business consisting of the erection, construction, maintenance, or leasing of outside signs,
bulletin boards, and poster boards.
Computer-related services includes persons or companies engaged in computer program-
related services, system designing and consulting, computer processing and data preparation and
processing, information retrieval, computer facilities management, and computer maintenance
and repair.
Consultant means every person operating a business, not more specifically defined
otherwise in this section, who gives expert advice for profit or reward.
Contractor means any person or company, whether operating from a place within the city or
not, engaged in the business of the construction, alteration, repairing, dismantling, or demolition
of buildings, roads, bridges, sewers, water and gas mains and every other type of structure within
the definition of real estate, including all subcontractors.
Day care operator means any person or company that provides care, supervision, and
guidance for six or more children or dependent adults.
Dentist means every person qualified under the laws of the state to practice dentistry and
engaged in active practice of such profession.
Distributor means every person engaged in the business of distributing samples, handbills,
or posters for compensation or on commission.
Drayperson and mover mean every person operating a business of transporting for profit
tangible personal property of other persons.
Eating establishment means any restaurant, coffee shop, cafeteria, short order cafe,
luncheonette, tavern, sandwich stand, soda fountain, drink stand and all other public eating
establishments where food is prepared, handled and served to the public at wholesale or retail
prices or for no price at all, as well as kitchens and other places in which food is handled or
prepared for sale elsewhere to the public, provided that food processing and distributing
establishments that do not sell prepared food to the public directly are not included in such
definition.
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Eating establishment operator means any person engaged in the business of operating a
public place for the sale of food prepared or consumed on the premises for the accommodation of
casual visitors.
Employment agent means every person operating, for profit, a business of hiring laborers or
securing positions for other persons to be employed within the limits of the state.
Entertainer means every person or group of persons, whether operating from within the city
or not, performing together and engaged in the business of entertaining the public in the city
through live or recorded music, theater, or dance.
Entertainment agent or operator means persons or companies in the business of collecting
fees or commissions, or other payment for furnishing live or recorded music, theater, or dance
entertainment, whether in their own place of business or in the place of another.
Finance or small loan agency includes every person engaged in the business of lending
money, with or without security, to other persons, with repayments of the loans to be made by
installments or otherwise, but shall not include, either in reference to future or past transactions,
banks, or trust companies.
Fitness trainer means every person operating a business, whether full-time or part-time, of
providing physical training services to paying clients.
Food truck means any mobile or temporary cooking operation that stores, transports, cooks,
prepares, serves, or sells food and/or drinks. Any cooking apparatus or equipment operated on a
one-time basis, interim basis, or for less than 90 days in the same location, other than at a fixed
location, building, or structure that has been inspected and permitted by the City of Dover Fire
Marshal’s Office, City of Dover Licensing Office, and State of Delaware Public Health.
Funeral director means every person engaged in the business and qualified under the laws
of the state to be so engaged as funeral directors and in active conduct thereof.
Gaming position means every individual space or seat, whether standing or sitting,
authorized to conduct gaming activities as identified on an approved floor plan.
General repairman means every person operating a business of repairing, reconditioning, or
otherwise restoring to useful service personal property of every kind and description not
otherwise provided for under this section.
Gas, light, and power company and cable TV and telephone company include the license fee
for utilities, provided that this license does not cover sales of appliances or equipment for which
a separate license shall be required.
Health spa and health club include every person engaged in the business of operating
private health, weight control, or physical culture facilities designed to establish and maintain the
optimum weight or physical conditioning of other persons.
Home daycare operator means any person that provides care, supervision, and guidance for
six or fewer children in an occupied residence excluding dependents of the operator or close
relatives.
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Hotel includes every person engaged in the business of operating a place where the public
may, for a consideration, obtain sleeping accommodations and meals and which, within city
limits, has at least ten permanent bedrooms for the use of guests.
Income tax consultant means every person, not licensed as an attorney or accountant under
this section, engaged in the business of providing federal or state income tax assistance to other
persons for a fee.
Incorporator includes every person operating a business or procuring corporate charters or
acting as resident, registration, or transfer agent of domestic corporations, except attorneys-at-
law having a license to practice such profession in this state.
Insurance adjustor office includes any person engaged in the business of settling claims for
any insurance company or for any other purpose where insurance is involved, and a fair appraisal
must be made of the loss, injury, or damage.
Itinerant merchant means any person, whether as owner, agent, or employee, who engages
in a temporary business of selling and delivering goods, prepared foods, beverages, wares, or
merchandise within the city who is not located within a licensed "open market," as defined by
this article, or participating in a "nonprofit sponsored event," as defined in this article, shall be
required to obtain an itinerant merchant's license for each event or holiday season during which
the itinerant merchant operates. The term "event" means any three-week period during which a
special occurrence or holiday falls.
Janitorial and cleaning service includes persons or companies engaged in the business of
maintaining and cleaning building and structures, including pool maintenance services, in-house
rug and carpet cleaners, and house washing businesses.
Land lease community operator includes every person engaged in the business of providing
home sites and facilities, for rent or lease, to owners of separately owned dwellings, including
owners of mobile homes and manufactured homes.
Landscape services includes persons or companies, whether operating from a place within
the city or not, engaged in the business of designing or maintaining lawns, trees, bushes, or other
ornamental plants, including but not limited to tree surgeons, grass cutting services, and
landscape architects.
Laundry service operator means every person engaged in the business of operating a
laundry, including coin-operated self-service laundries, and/or of securing goods or fabrics to be
so laundered, whether the actual work of laundering such goods or fabrics is done within or
without the state.
Linen supplier means every person actively engaged in holding himself out to do the
business of supplying, furnishing, or making available coats, caps, aprons, uniforms, towels,
dresses, diapers, industrial wipers, smocks, linens, or other like articles and laundering and
otherwise renewing such supplies for profit.
Manicurist means every person operating a business of caring for the appearance of hands.
Manufacturer means any person, as owner or agent, in the practice, conduct, pursuit, or
carrying on the business of working raw materials into products of a different character, finished
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or unfinished, or of effecting any combination or composition of material, the nature of which is
changed; or of finishing, by hand or machinery, goods, wares, or merchandise, or any article or
material.
Manufacturer's agent or representative means every independent contractor in the business
of representing one or more manufacturers for purposes of promoting the sale of the goods,
product, or line of goods or products of such manufacturer or manufacturers within the city.
Massage and bodywork therapist shall mean a person who represents himself or herself to
the public by any title or description of services incorporating the words “bodywork”,
“massage”, “massage therapist”, “massage therapy”, “massage practitioner”, “massagist”,
“masseur”, “masseuse”, or who engages in the practice of massage and bodywork for a fee,
monetary, or otherwise.
Mercantile agency and collection agency include every person operating a business or
investigation of financial ratings and credit and/or the collection of commercial accounts for
other persons, except attorneys-at-law having a license to practice such profession in this state.
Merchant means any person, as owner or agent, in the business of buying and selling
merchandise for cash or by barter, or engaged in prosecuting, following, or carrying on a retail or
wholesale business by purchasing and selling produce, goods, wares, or any property of whatever
description.
Motel includes every person engaged in the business of furnishing, for a consideration,
transient guests with sleeping accommodations, private bath and toilet facilities, linen service,
and a place to park an automobile and who is not in the business of operating a "hotel" or "tourist
home," as such terms are defined in this section.
Motion picture theater includes every person engaged in the business of displaying motion
pictures for public entertainment, regardless of the physical location of the projection facilities,
and shall include drive-in theaters.
Motor vehicle serviceman means every person operating a business of repairing, rebuilding,
repainting, or otherwise reconditioning motor vehicles or their parts.
NAICS means the North American Industry Classification System developed by the United
States Census Bureau and published as a manual. The NAICS was developed for use in the
classification of establishments by type of activity in which they are engaged. The licensing
officer shall use the NAICS to assist in the determination of license classes for this article and
shall keep a current copy of the NAICS on file in the licensing office.
Nursing, rest, or convalescent home (private) includes every person engaged in the business
of operating any institution, building, or agency in which accommodation is maintained,
furnished, or offered for any fee, gift, compensation, or reward for the care of aged, infirm,
chronically ill, or convalescent persons.
Open market operator means any person or company primarily engaged in the business of
renting space, on a temporary or limited basis, to persons or businesses selling products and
services. This category shall include but not be limited to flea markets, bazaars, farmers' markets,
and common areas of shopping malls available for lease. Persons or businesses operating from
open markets shall not be required to obtain licenses under this Code.
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Optometrist includes every person qualified under the laws of the state to practice
optometry and engaged in active practice of such profession.
Pawnbroker means every person operating a business of lending money on pledge of
tangible personal property or purchasing the same on the condition of returning it to the seller at
a stipulated price and of selling the property in default of the pawner.
Payment means the annual license taxes paid by persons engaged in the occupations listed
and defined in this section, at the rates specified in section 26-35(d). In addition to the annual
license fee indicated in such section, each such person shall pay a fee for each additional separate
branch or business location.
Pest control services includes persons or companies engaged in the business of
exterminating or controlling vermin from structures or properties.
Pharmacist means every person qualified under the laws of the state to practice pharmacy
and engaged in active practice of such profession.
Photographer means every person operating a business of taking, making and/or developing
photographs or pictures by action of light, for profit or reward.
Physical therapist means every person operating a business of practicing physical therapy
as defined in 24 Del. C. § 2601 et seq.
Physician and surgeon mean every individual qualified under the laws of the state to
practice medicine, osteopathy, and surgery, and engaged in active practice of such profession,
whether self-employed or a member or employee of a firm or private corporation.
Plant nursery and florist include every person in the business of operating a place where
trees, shrubs, plants, flowers, and the like are cultivated, grown, or propagated from seed or
otherwise for transplanting, for use as stock, for grafting, and for sale. Persons purchasing trees,
shrubs, plants, flowers, and the like for resale are subject to the appropriate license fee in this
article.
Pool table operator means every person operating a business of maintaining pool or billiard
tables for public use.
Printer means any person engaged in the business of impressing letters or characters upon
paper or other substance by mechanical act.
Professional counselor means every person qualified under the laws of the state to practice
counseling and engaged in active practice of such profession.
Professional engineer means every individual qualified under the laws of the state to
practice professional engineering and is engaged in active practice of such profession, whether
self-employed or a member or employee of a firm or private corporation offering professional
engineering services to the general public.
Professional land surveyor means every individual who is a professional specialist in the
techniques of the principles of mathematics and the related sciences; is experienced in the
application of the principles of mathematics and the related sciences; understands the relevant
requirements of law for the presentation of adequate assistance relating to property descriptions
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and the surveying of real property; is efficient in the practice of land surveying; and holds a valid
certificate to practice land surveying as defined by the state.
Psychologist means every person qualified under the laws of the state to practice
psychology and engaged in active practice of such profession.
Public accountant means every person actively operating a business of general public
accounting, who is not qualified and registered under the laws of the state to practice as a
certified public accountant.
Publisher includes any person engaged in the business of manufacturing, promulgating, or
selling books, pamphlets, magazines, newspapers, or other literary productions, or issues or
causes to be issued books, pamphlets, magazines, newspapers, or other literary productions from
the press, for sale or for circulation.
Real estate brokers of record, appraisers, and property managers mean and include every
person or company, whether operating from the city or not, either certified by the state real estate
commission as brokers or appraisers engaged in the real estate business and/or those engaged in
real estate property management, whether owned by the management company or when acting as
an agent. The term includes those among such persons who deal exclusively or partly with rental
property. Persons or companies that combine one or more of these services shall pay for one
license only.
Real estate development corporation means every person or company in the business of real
estate development.
Real estate property manager means every person or company, whether operating from the
city or not, in the business of real estate rental property management and not required to be
licensed as a real estate broker of record, appraiser, or real estate agent by the state real estate
commission.
Real estate salesperson or associate broker means every person, whether operating from
within the city or not, certified as such by the state real estate commission, and engaged in the
real estate business. Such term includes those among such persons who deal exclusively or partly
with rental property.
Rental services includes persons or companies engaged in the business of renting
equipment, motor vehicles, machinery, tools, furniture, videotapes and games, electronic sound,
computer or video systems, tents, and any other article.
Sales representative means every person, whether operating from a place within the city or
not, who works selling or supplying goods, commodities, or merchandise from place to place,
including fuel, food, services, goods, wares, and other articles. The term shall include peddlers,
home demonstrators, solicitors, and hucksters.
Schools and educational services (nonvocational) includes persons or companies engaged
in the business of providing instruction in areas of knowledge and skill not intended or
principally designed to provide a career. This definition shall include but is not limited to
nonvocational art, music, dance, driving, charm, and athletic instruction.
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Schools and educational services (vocational) includes persons or companies engaged in
the business of providing instruction in areas of knowledge and skill intended or designed to
provide a career. This definition shall include but is not limited to barber, beautician, and
modeling instruction.
Scientific laboratory includes every person who operates, as a private business for a profit, a
scientific or medical laboratory offering testing, research, analytical, and other such technical
services to the public.
Scrap and waste material dealer includes every person or company engaged in assembling,
breaking up, sorting, and distributing, either wholesale or retail, scrap, or waste material of all
compositions, including but not limited to junkyards, salvage yards, and recycling centers.
Security services includes every person or company engaged in the business of providing
private security services, including security officers, guards, or private patrol officers.
Shoe repairman means any person engaged in the business of repairing or rebuilding shoes.
Tailor and garment services include persons or companies who make repairs and alterations
to clothes and other fabric products, including textile renovators.
Taxicab or bus operator means every person in the business of the operation of motor
vehicles in transporting persons for hire in the accommodation of the general public. The tax
shall not apply, however, in the operation of school buses used solely in the transportation of
children to and from kindergarten, grade school, vocational school, and high school.
Tourist home includes every person who operates a place where tourists or transient guests,
for a consideration, may obtain sleeping accommodations and which has at least two permanent
bedrooms for the use of tourists or transient guests and who is not in the "hotel" or "motel"
business as defined in this section.
Travel agency includes every person who operates a full-service travel bureau which assists
in the planning and acquisition of tickets for trips of its customers by land, sea, or air and for
related accommodation, and includes transportation agents who sell tickets on behalf of others,
for commission, and airline ticket sales offices.
Veterinarian means every person qualified under the laws of the state to practice veterinary
medicine and engaged in active practice of such profession.
Warehouse Operator means every person operating a business of public storage of tangible
personal property, including all services in connection therewith.
Sec. 26-35. License required; fees.
(a) Nonprofessional service businesses. Except where expressed by definition in section 26-
31, nonprofessional service businesses shall pay an annual license fee for each store,
place of business or vehicle from which the licensee conducts the business operated
within the city.
(b) Professional services. Persons engaged in professional services, such as accountants,
certified or public, landscape architects, architects, optometrists, lawyers, dentists,
physicians and surgeons, psychologists, physical therapists, podiatrists, professional
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 08, 2024 PAGE 16
engineers, and veterinarians shall pay an annual license fee for engaging in such
professional services within the city.
(c) Corporate employees. No license shall be required of any individual practicing a
profession or trade who is in the employ of any corporation licensed under any other
provision of this article and who does not practice his profession, except in his capacity
as an employee of such corporation and, provided further, that no attorney in the employ
of any such corporation shall be required to obtain a license under this section so as to
fulfill assignments made to him by any state court.
(d) Businesses licensed.
(1) No person shall conduct or engage in any of the following trades, businesses, or
occupations within the city without a license and paying the appropriate fee as
provided for in Appendix F—Fees and Fines.
(2) Manufacturers and contractors shall pay a license fee as provided for in Appendix
F—Fees and Fines.
(3) Merchants and bottlers shall pay a license fee as provided for in Appendix F—
Fees and Fines.
(4) Sports betting and horse racing (Simulcast) shall be licensed for each activity and
shall pay a license fee as provided for in Appendix F—Fees and Fines.
Sec. 26-36. Determination of license fee; duties of license officer; refunds.
(a) Generally. License fees shall be in the amounts established in this article, and as further
determined in this section.
(b) Duties of license officer. The license officer shall:
(1) Higher fee. Require the payment of an additional or higher license fee, to be
prorated for the balance of the license period, when a licensee places himself in that
status under this article by:
a. Increasing the number of his employees.
b. Expanding the size of his business, plant, or premises.
c. Increasing the number or size of his vehicles.
d. Making any other lawful and material change of any kind in his business.
(2) Partial refund. Refund a proportion of the amount of fee already paid, prorated
for the balance of the license period, upon notification by a licensee of his voluntary
retirement from business.
(3) Late commencement of business. Prorate the license fee quarterly for the balance
of any license period, including minimum license fees of any business commenced
after the beginning of the license period. Prorating of the license fee shall not occur
for contractors who receive a per job license, or for itinerant merchant licensees. The
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 08, 2024 PAGE 17
first pro-ration begins on November 1st, the second pro-ration begins on February 1st,
and the third pro-ration begins on May 1st, of each year.
(c) Refund.
(1) Except as provided, no rebate or refund of any license fee or part thereof shall be
made by reason of the nonuse of the license or by reason of a change of location or
business rendering the use of the license ineffective. The license officer shall have the
authority to refund a license fee or prorated portion thereof where:
a. Error. The license fee was collected through an error.
b. Hardship. Some particular hardship might be involved.
c. Death or incapacity. The licensee has been prevented from enjoying the full
license privilege due to his death or incapacity to engage in the business.
d. Armed services. The licensee has entered the armed services of the United States
through induction or enlistment and is thereby rendered unable to conduct the
business.
e. Government takeover. The licensed business is forced to close before the
expiration of the license period by reason of the taking over of the business or
licensed premises by the United States government, the state, or this city.
f. Fire, casualty. The licensed business was destroyed by fire or other casualty
through no fault of the licensee.
(2) A rebate or refund provided for in this subsection (c) shall be based upon the
number of days in the license period remaining after the occurrence of the event
relied upon for the rebate.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
That Appendix F – Fees and Fines, be amended by inserting the text indicated in bold, blue font
and deleting the text indicated in red strikeout as follows:
Chapter 26. – Business
Chapter 26. Businesses Fees and Fines
Article II. Licenses
Fines not paid within 14 days of the day the fine was issued, including the day the fine was
issued, shall be automatically doubled in amount.
Sec. 26-35. License required; fees
Subsec. (d)(1) Businesses licensed
Advertising agency $96.00
Amusement operator $160.00
Architect (per person) $256.00
Attorney-at-law (per person) $320.00
ATM machines (third-party or off-bank premises) $52.00
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Auctioneer $160.00
Automobile race operator $380.00
Bank, or loan and trust company $320.00
Barber $64.00
each additional chair over two $4.00
Beautician $64.00
each additional chair over two $4.00
Broker $160.00
Car wash $192.00
Certified public accountant (per person) $256.00
Cesspool cleaner $128.00
Chiropractor (per person) $320.00
Clinical social worker (per person) $100.00
Coin-operated amusement machine owner, per machine $4.00
Coin-operated vending machine owner, per machine $4.00
Coin-operated electronic video machine, per machine $128.00
Commercial sign business $128.00
Computer-related services $128.00
Consultant $52.00
Daycare operator:
Center or home provider with greater than six children $52.00
Dentist (per person) $320.00
Distributor $64.00
Dray person or mover $128.00
Eating establishment and/or eating establishment operator $128.00
Employment agency $128.00
Entertainer:
One—three entertainers per group $52.00
Four—nine entertainers per group $96.00
Ten or more $128.00
Entertainment agent $192.00
Finance or small loan agency $256.00
Fitness trainer $72.00
Food Truck $180.00
Funeral director $256.00
Gaming position $160.00
Gas, light, power, cable TV, and telephone company $960.00
General repairman $64.00
Health spa or health club $192.00
Home daycare operator $28.00
Hotel:
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Per room $12.00
Per suite $12.00
Income tax consultant $192.00
Incorporator $128.00
Insurance adjustor office $128.00
Itinerant merchant, per event $100.00
Janitorial and cleaning service:
One—three employees $52.00
Four—nine employees $96.00
Ten or more employees $128.00
Land lease community operator, per home site within $24.00
community
Landscape service company:
One—three employees $52.00
Four—nine employees $96.00
Ten or more employees $128.00
Laundry service operator:
Primary facility $128.00
Additional drop-off locations $52.00
Linen supplier $128.00
Manicurist (per person) $32.00
Manufacturer's agent or representative $128.00
Massage Therapist (per person) $60.00
Mercantile agency or collection agency $128.00
Motel, per room $8.00
Motion picture theater $192.00
Motor vehicle serviceman $96.00
Nursing, rest, or convalescent home $192.00
Open market operator:
First 20 spaces, per rented space $24.00
21st—50th space, per rented space $12.00
Each space over 50, per rented space $8.00
Outdoor tables, per table $8.00
Optometrist (per person) $320.00
Pawnbroker $192.00
Pest control services $96.00
Pharmacist (per person) $192.00
Photographer $128.00
Physical therapist (per person) $192.00
Physician and/or surgeon (per person) $320.00
Plant nursery and florist $96.00
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Podiatrist (per person) $320.00
Pool table operator, per table $64.00/
Maximum fee
$192.00
Printer $128.00
Professional counselor (per person) $64.00
Professional engineer (per person) $256.00
Professional land surveyor (per person) $256.00
Psychologist (per person) $320.00
Public accountant (per person) $192.00
Publisher $320.00
Real estate broker, appraiser, and manager $160.00
Real estate development corporation $352.00
Real estate property manager:
One—three units managed $52.00
Four—ten units managed $128.00
Ten + units managed $128.00
Real estate salesperson or associated broker $52.00
Rental service $128.00
Sales representative $52.00
School and educational service (nonvocational) $64.00
School and educational service (vocational) $128.00
Scientific laboratory $256.00
Scrap and waste material service $128.00
Security service $192.00
Shoe repairman $52.00
Tailor and garment service $52.00
Taxicab or bus operator:
First vehicle $28.00
Each additional vehicle $28.00
Tourist home, per room $8.00
Travel agency $128.00
Veterinarian (per person) $320.00
Warehouse Operator $256.00
All other businesses not listed:
One—three employees $52.00
Four—nine employees $96.00
Ten—50 employees $128.00
51—100 employees $320.00
Subsec. (d)(2) Manufacturers/contractors rate $0.00046 of
aggregate gross
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receipts/
Minimum fee
$128.00
Subsec. (d)(3) Merchants/bottlers rate $0.00046 of
aggregate gross
purchases for
resale/
Minimum fee $64.00
Subsec. (d)(4) Sports betting and horse racing (Simulcast) rate of $0.00046 of
the aggregate gross
receipts (defined as
commission) for
each activity/
Minimum license fee
$128.00
Sec. 26-42. Penalty for late payment of license fee A penalty fee in the
amount of ten
percent per month of
the amount of the
license fee until the
same is paid
Article III. Going-Out-of-Business Sales; Fire Sales
Fines not paid within 14 days of the day the fine was issued,
including the day the fine was issued, shall be automatically
doubled in amount.
Sec. 26-108. Violations; penalties Not less than
$25.00, nor more
than $1,000.00
Sec. 26-137. Fees $25.00; renewal fee
$25.00
ADOPTED: July 8, 2024
FINAL READING PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2024-23 – AMENDING CHAPTER 106 –
TRAFFIC AND VEHICLES, ARTICLE I – IN GENERAL, SEC. 106-14. – OFF-ROAD
VEHICLE REGULATIONS (COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANDERSON)
Mr. Neil moved that the Final Reading of the proposed ordinance be acknowledged by title
only, seconded by Mr. Rocha, and unanimously carried. (Sudler absent) (The First Reading
of the proposed ordinance was accomplished during the Council Meeting of June 24, 2024.)
Chief Johnson, Chief of Police, reviewed Proposed Ordinance #2024-23 – Amending Chapter
106 – Traffic and Vehicles, Article I – In General, Sec. 106-14. – Off-road Vehicle Regulations.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 08, 2024 PAGE 22
By motion of Mr. Neil, seconded by Dr. Pillsbury, by a roll call vote, eight (8) yes (Hare,
Boggerty, Neil, Pillsbury, Arndt, Rocha, Sudler, Lewis, Anderson) and one (1) absent
(Sudler) adopted Ordinance #2024-23 as follows:
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN
COUNCIL MET:
That Chapter 106 – Traffic and Vehicles, Article 1 – In General, Section 106-14. Off-road motor
vehicle regulations be amended to read as follows:
Sec. 106-14. Off-road motor vehicle regulation:
(a) Definitions. The following words, terms, and phrases, when used in this section, shall
have the meanings ascribed to them in this subsection, except where the context clearly
indicates a different meaning:
Off-road vehicle, or ORV, is interchangeable with the 21 Del. C. term of “Off-Highway
Vehicle”, or OHV, and means any motor vehicle or other motorized vehicle not licensed
to travel on the public roads of the state or permitted to travel on the public roads of the
state. It also means a motor driven off-road vehicle capable of cross-country travel
without benefit of a road or trail, on or immediately over land, snow, ice, marsh,
swampland or other natural terrain. It includes, but is not limited to, a multi-wheel drive
or low pressure tire vehicle, a motorcycle or related 2-wheel vehicle, an amphibious
machine, a ground effect air-cushion vehicle or other means of transportation deriving
motive power from a source other than muscle or wind, including dirt bikes and all-
terrain vehicles. ORV does not include a farm vehicle being used for farming, a vehicle
used for military, fire, emergency or law-enforcement purposes, a construction or logging
vehicle used in performance of its common function, electric personal assistive mobility
device or a registered aircraft. However, nothing in this section shall be construed to
include snowmobiles or electric bikes, scooters, etc., incapable of speeds exceeding 20
mph.
Victim Services means the support of victims and/or survivors of crime, fire, or serious
traumatic injuries of any mechanism occurring within the city limits.
(b) Ownership, Control, or Possession
(1) A person may own and/or control and/or possess an ORV so long as they adhere to all of
the owner and/or operator provisions of 21 Del. C. § 6801 through § 6813, § 6825, § 6827,
and § 6830 in publication at the time of the adoption of this Section, and any future revisions
by the Delaware General Assembly regarding owner or operator responsibilities; and,
(2) A person may own and/or control and/or possess an ORV in the City so long as the
vehicle is securely locked or otherwise immobilized by a wheel clamp or other object, device,
method, or mechanism, whether attached to the vehicle or not, that:
i. prevents the vehicle from being freely moved; and
ii. cannot be removed or deactivated without the assistance of the vehicle’s owner.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 08, 2024 PAGE 23
(c) Use, Driving or riding vehicle
(1) A person may use and/or drive and/or ride an ORV, on private property only, so long as
they adhere to all of the owner and/or operator provisions of 21 Del. C. § 6814(a), § 6821(a),
and § 6823 in publication at the time of the adoption of this Section, and any future revisions
by the Delaware General Assembly regarding owner or operator responsibilities; and,
(2) A person may use and/or drive and/or ride an ORV so long as they adhere to all of the
owner and/or operator restrictions of 21 Del. C. § 6815 through § 6820, § 6822 and § 6824 in
publication at the time of the adoption of this Section, and any future revisions by the
Delaware General Assembly regarding owner or operator responsibilities; and,
(3) No person may use and/or drive and/or ride an ORV, on public property anywhere in the
City. The provisions of 21 Del. C. § 6814(a) (1) do not apply to the movement of an ORV
from one private property to another. The provisions of 21 Del. C. § 6814(a) (2) will apply to
any public event with an approved City permit.
(4) City license. The owner of a private property must obtain a license from the city in order
to operate, or allow the operation, of ORV’s on said private property within the corporate
limits of the city, which license shall be issued according to regulations adopted by the city
regarding the amount of the fee, display of the license, proof of insurance coverage, etc.
(5) Muffler. Any ORV operated under the umbrella of a city license must have a muffler
system which limits engine noises to state noise violation standards.
(d) Penalties.
(1) Civil Penalty. Any person who violates any part of sub-sections (b) or (c) (4) or (c) (5) is
subject to a civil fine of five hundred dollars ($500) for the first offense and one thousand
dollars ($1,000) for every additional offense.
(2) Civil Penalty. Any person who violates any part of sub-sections (c) (1), (c) (2) or (c) (3)
is subject to a civil fine of two thousand dollars ($2,000) for the first offense and an
additional one thousand dollars ($1,000) for every additional offense documented prior to the
identification of the offender and seizure of the unlawfully driven ORV. After an adjudication
favorable to the City of the first recorded case, any person who violates any provision of
these sub-sections, and charged a second or subsequent time, is subject to a civil fine of four
thousand dollars ($4,000) for the first offense and an additional two thousand dollars ($2,000)
for every additional offense
i. Any owner to whom a penalty is issued may, within forty-eight (48)
hours of being fined, agree to forfeit the vehicle in lieu of contesting the
violation and in lieu of any other fines or penalties.
ii. It should be considered a mitigating factor during judicial proceedings if
an individual charged under this Section, and who has contested such charge,
can provide proof that, after the time of a violation, the vehicle in question
has since been properly registered and an appropriate immobilization device
and transportation mechanism have been secured in order to ensure future
compliance with this Section.
(3) Confiscate. In addition to any civil fines a police officer may issue pursuant to this
section, whenever a police officer has probable cause to believe that an ORV is being used in
violation of this section and either the ORV is not registered or the ORV does not bear a valid
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 08, 2024 PAGE 24
registration decal pursuant to state law, the officer may confiscate the ORV, either on view or
upon execution of a lawfully obtained search warrant, whereupon the Police Department shall
comply with the remaining provisions of this chapter.
(4) Disposition. Any confiscated or forfeited ORV will be disposed of by a city-approved
vendor at auction. Revenues returned from the disposed ORVs will be directed to a special
City account and can only be used for purposes related to victim services. A standing
committee that includes the Mayor, the President of Council, the Emergency Management
Coordinator, the Fire Chief and the Police Chief will inform the City Manager of authorized
expenditures from the fund.
(Code 1981, § 13-15; Ord. of 9-13-1982, § 2; Ord. of 9-22-2003; Ord. No. 2009-09, 6-22-2009)
ADOPTED: July 8, 2024
CITY MANAGER'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mr. Hugg had no announcements.
MAYOR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mayor Christiansen took the opportunity to thank everyone involved in organizing the successful
4th of July festivities, including the 4th of July committee, and Brett Scott from Walter L. Fox
Post 2. He congratulated the winners of the Peach Pie Eating Contest and extended thanks to
Fifer’s Farm for donating the pies. Mayor Christiansen also acknowledged Mr. Neil and
Dr. Pillsbury for riding with him in the parade. He announced that at the July 22nd meeting, he
would be announcing plans for at least two or three other festivals in Dover.
COUNCIL MEMBERS' ANNOUNCEMENTS
Ms. Arndt wished Mr. Hare a happy birthday.
Mr. Neil wished Mr. Hare a happy birthday.
Mr. Boggerty expressed his gratitude to the City of Dover and everyone who supported and
attended Unity Day. He extended thanks to the Parks and Recreation Department and the Police
Department for their contributions. This year, the event focused on anti-bullying, with speakers
addressing topics ranging from cyberbullying to issues faced by the LGBTQA + community.
Mr. Boggerty mentioned that candidates running for office participated by giving introductions
and speeches, and there were activities such as voter registration and COVID-19 vaccinations.
Nonprofit groups were present, along with former gang members playing basketball with others.
Looking ahead, Mr. Boggerty mentioned that he has not decided on a theme for next year, but
aims to expand the event, always striving to support worthy causes.
Mr. Rocha announced that on July 29th at the Capital Green area, there would be a five (5) on
five (5) basketball tournament and Dr. Sudler would be grilling. The event will start at 4:00 p.m.
and it is open to the public. Mr. Rocha expressed that a collaboration with the City of Dover, the
Library, and the United Way of Delaware is presenting a Back-to-School bookbag bash on
August 10th, at the library, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 08, 2024 PAGE 25
Mr. Anderson announced that on July 11th, Reptile World will feature reptilian demonstrations at
the Green, starting at 7:00 p.m. On July 18th, River and Roads, the Acoustic Duo will perform at
the Green, also starting at 7:00 p.m. He mentioned that the City of Dover website has a full
schedule of events, including weekly activities with Hope Zone throughout the summer.
Mr. Anderson extended thanks to local legislators for their advocacy and time with the General
Assembly.
Chief Carey expressed gratitude to Senator Trey Paradee and the Joint Finance Committee for
allocating $1,150,000 in funding for the fire departments serving higher education institutions
with on-campus residence halls. He highlighted that the funding addressed ongoing challenges
over the years with nuisance fire alarms at Delaware State University. Chief Carey emphasized
that this initiative would positively impact volunteerism in the City of Dover. Currently, there is
an ongoing meeting with council members and city management to collaborate on strategies
aimed at maximizing a positive impact.
The meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.
ANDRIA BENNETT
CITY CLERK
All ordinances, resolutions, motions, and orders adopted by the City Council during their
Regular Meeting of July 8, 2024, are hereby approved.
ROBIN R. CHRISTIANSEN
MAYOR