ANNUAL COUNCIL MEETING
The Annual Council Meeting was held on May 11, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. with Mayor Carey presiding. Council members present were Council President Hogan, Mr. Leary, Mrs. Russell, Mr. McGlumphy, Mr. Slavin, Mr. McGiffin, Mrs. Williams, Mr. Salters, and Mr. Ruane.
Council staff members present were Police Chief Horvath, Ms. Russell, Mrs. Mitchell, Mrs. Townshend, Deputy Fire Chief Christiansen, Mr. DePrima (departed at 7:52 p.m.), City Solicitor Rodriguez, and Mrs. McDowell.
The invocation was given by Deacon Erich Gillespie of the Holy Trinity Church of the Living God, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Leary moved for approval of the agenda as presented, seconded by Mr. Slavin and unanimously carried.
Mr. Salters moved for approval of the consent agenda, seconded by Mrs. Williams and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 13, 2009
The Minutes of the Special Council Meeting of April 13, 2009 were unanimously approved by motion of Mr. Salters, seconded by Mrs. Williams and bore the written approval of Mayor Carey.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 27, 2009
The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of April 27, 2009 were unanimously approved by motion of Mr. Salters, seconded by Mrs. Williams and bore the written approval of Mayor Carey.
OATHS OF OFFICE - CITY COUNCIL
The Honorable Henry duPont Ridgely, Justice of the Delaware Supreme Court, administered the Oath of Office to members of City Council, as follows:
Council-At Large - Thomas J. Leary
Council - First District - Kenneth L. Hogan
Council - Second District - Eugene B. Ruane
Council - Third District - James G. McGiffin, Jr.
Council - Fourth District - Reuben Salters
ELECTION OF COUNCIL PRESIDENT/VICE-MAYOR
Mayor Carey noted that each member of Council was provided a paper nominating ballot. He requested that members write the name of their nominee for Council President/Vice-Mayor on the ballot to be placed in an envelope to be submitted to the City Solicitor for determination of the nominations.
Mayor Carey announced that the following names were nominated to serve as Council President/Vice-Mayor: 1) Kenneth L. Hogan; and 2) Beverly C. Williams.
Mr. Leary moved to accept the nominations for Council President/Vice-Mayor as submitted, seconded by Mr. Salters and unanimously carried.
Mr. Leary moved to close nominations for Council President/Vice-Mayor, seconded by Mr. Salters and unanimously carried.
Mayor Carey noted that each member of Council was provided a paper election ballot. He requested that members cast their vote for Council President/Vice-Mayor and place the ballot in the envelope to be submitted to the City Solicitor.
Mr. Leary moved to have the City Solicitor provide the final election result in lieu of reading each ballot, seconded by Mrs. Russell and unanimously carried.
Mayor Carey announced that Mrs. Beverly C. Williams will serve as Council President/Vice-Mayor for the next year.
On behalf of members of Council, Mayor Carey thanked Mr. Hogan for his leadership in serving as Council President/Vice-Mayor for the past year.
Mayor Carey reminded members that the envelopes containing the nominating and election ballots have been sealed by the City Solicitor and will be retained until after the next Annual Council Meeting, after which time, the unopened envelopes will be destroyed.
RECESS
Mr. Leary moved to recess to take photographs of the Mayor and City Council, seconded by Mr. McGlumphy and unanimously carried.
Meeting recessed at 7:52 p.m. and reconvened at 8:02 p.m.
PROCLAMATION - WOMEN'S HEALTH WEEK
The City Clerk read the following Proclamation into the record:
WHEREAS, National Women's Health Week celebrates the extraordinary progress in women's health and recognizes that more needs to be done to safeguard the health of women for generations to come; and
WHEREAS, women from all walks of life and at every stage of life have unique health needs that should be addressed in their own right; and
WHEREAS, keeping women healthy and safe and promoting awareness of women's health issues depends on partnerships with social, health and other services; and
WHEREAS, women can promote health and prevent disease and illness by taking simple steps to improve their physical, mental, social and spiritual health; and,
WHEREAS, women's health remains a priority for families, communities and government and our commitment to keeping women healthy is stronger than ever.
NOW THEREFORE, I, CARLETON E. CAREY, SR., Mayor of the City of Dover, Delaware do hereby proclaim May 10-16, 2009 as National Women's Health Week throughout the City of Dover and encourage all citizens to work together to promote and improve health of women and to increase awareness and understanding of women's health issues.
Mayor Carey presented the Proclamation to Dr. Jacqueline Christman of the Delaware Office of Women’s Health.
PROCLAMATION - NASCAR DAY
The City Clerk read the following Proclamation into the record:
WHEREAS, May 15, 2009 is the sixth annual NASCAR Day, a one-day celebration of the NASCAR Spirit; and
WHEREAS, the mission of NASCAR Day is to encourage individuals and corporations involved in NASCAR to join together to support NASCAR-related charities; and
WHEREAS, with a small donation, you will receive a collectible NASCAR Day lapel pin and are encouraged to wear your favorite NASCAR gear; and
WHEREAS, proceeds benefit the NASCAR Foundation which embodies the compassion of the NASCAR family and their commitment to serving communities and also the Greater Dover Foundation which strives to improve the quality of life for the residents of the Greater Dover area.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, CARLETON E. CAREY, SR., Mayor of the City of Dover, Delaware, do hereby proclaim May15, 2009 as NASCAR DAY in the City of Dover and encourage all citizens to join me in honoring the spirit and accomplishments of this outstanding organization.
Mayor Carey presented the Proclamation to Mr. Jerry Dunning of Dover Downs.
STATE OF THE CITY MESSAGE - MAYOR CARLETON E. CAREY, SR.
Mayor Carleton E. Carey, Sr. presented the State of the City Message (Exhibit #1) and provided a Power Point presentation.
UTILITY COMMITTEE REPORT - APRIL 27, 2009
The Utility Committee met on April 27, 2009 with Chairman Ruane presiding.
Members held a moment of silence for the death of Mr. Brian Duca (husband to Mrs. Sharon Duca, Water/Wastewater Manager) and expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to Mrs. Duca.
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant
Mr. DePrima reminded members that during their meeting of March 9, 2009, staff informed members of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program and explained that these monies would be given directly to municipalities. At that time, he noted that there were unresolved issues regarding the program, such as how the program will work, the formulas, etc.; however, staff was encouraged to identify projects and build a file and contact list so that the City could move quickly once the issues regarding this program are resolved.
Mr. DePrima advised members that the City of Dover was recently informed that it is eligible for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant formula funding. Based on the formula, he stated that the City of Dover can receive $180,400 and that applications are due by June 25, 2009. At this time, he stated that staff is seeking guidance on use of these funds. He explained that the purpose of the program is to implement strategies to reduce fossil fuel emissions, total energy use, and improve energy efficiency in all sectors. The success of the program will be measured by the following: jobs created and/or retained; energy savings on a per dollar invested basis; renewable energy capacity installed; and greenhouse gas emissions reduced. He reviewed the specific activities that are eligible for the grant funds.
Mr. DePrima explained the three (3) programs that staff recommended the City apply for, as follows:
•10kW Photovoltaic installation at McKee Run Power Plant. Mr. DePrima stated that the Solar PV project, located on the roof of the McKee Run power plant, has already been bid out and the cost would be $65,000. He indicated that although it cannot be called “shovel ready”, since the project is on a roof, in the spirit of the Stimulus Bill, it is ready to go.
•Replacing water and wastewater station motors with premium efficiency motors. Estimated cost is $54,280.
•Replacing standard high pressure sodium lights with LED lights - 64 lights on Route 8 from Kings Highway to Ridgely Road. Estimated cost is $61,120.
Mr. DePrima noted that the total potential cost is $180,400. Since it is only $180,400, he discouraged any use that has high administrative costs, such as grants to other non-profits and financing programs. In addition, he stated that there is a great deal of money coming forward through the State Energy Office for home energy audits, weatherization programs, residential and commercial renewable energy, and energy efficiency programs; therefore, there is no need to duplicate these programs.
Mr. Ruane requested that there be a standing agenda item for “Green Energy Funding and Programming” and that staff provide a monthly report in an effort to keep the committee abreast of these issues.
The committee recommended approval of staff’s recommendations for applying for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant, as follows: 1) 10kW Photovoltaic installation at McKee Run Power Plant; 2) Replacing water and wastewater station motors with premium efficiency motors; and 3) Replacing standard high pressure sodium lights with LED lights - 64 lights on Route 8 from Kings Highway to Ridgely Road.
By consent agenda, Mr. Salters moved for approval of the committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mrs. Williams and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Review - Public Utilities
During their meeting of April 13, 2009, members were provided the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for Public Utilities for Fiscal Year 2009-2010 (the Plan included Fiscal Years 2010-2011 through 2013-2014). Due to time constraints, it was noted that the review of the CIP would continue with the “Water Management” items during their next meeting and that the additional information requested regarding the residual bond money and revolving low interest loan program would be provided to members for their review at that time as well.
Mrs. Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, provided members with information regarding the Electric Revenue Fund 2008 Bond Proceeds and the Water/Wastewater Capital Improvement Plan and Financing with 20 Year Bonds. She advised members that a new Resolution is forthcoming to be presented to City Council for use of the excess bond proceeds and approval of the projects. Referring to “Table 7”, regarding the Water/Wastewater CIP and financing with 20 year Bonds, Mrs. Mitchell noted that the colors depicted on Table 7 - Funding Sources, correspond with Table 7 - Capital Project. She advised members that “Pear Street” project should not include “DWSRF”.
At the request of Mr. Ruane, Mr. Lunt, Public Utilities Director, continued to review the details regarding the CIP’s for both the Electric and Water/Wastewater for fiscal year 2010, which were provided to members, beginning with the Water Management Remote Control and Monitor Wells.
The committee took no action.
PACE/NAES Monthly Report (February and March)
Members were provided the PACE/NAES Monthly Reports for February and March 2009. The reports are being provided to allow members the opportunity to monitor what is being sold in electric and the revenues received, which will give members a better understanding of any fluctuations and make improvements if deemed necessary. Although it was not staff’s intention to make a presentation of the report, they welcomed any questions.
The committee recommended acceptance of the PACE/NAES Monthly Report for February and March 2009.
By consent agenda, Mr. Salters moved for approval of the committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mrs. Williams and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
By consent agenda, Mr. Salters moved for acceptance of the Utility Committee Report, seconded by Mrs. Williams and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE REPORT - APRIL 27, 2009
The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee met on April 27, 2009 with Mr. Salters presiding in the absence of Chairman Slavin.
Mr. Salters requested the deletion of agenda item #1, Review and Recommendations - Filling Critical Positions and agenda item #2, Recommendations - Phase II of the MAG Study (to be considered during the committee meeting of May 26, 2009).
Proposed Ordinance #2009-05 - Chapter 102 - Taxation
Ms. Russell, City Assessor, advised members that the proposed amendments to Chapter 102 -Taxation were based on an audit of the City of Dover Assessor’s Office performed by Mr. Frederick Chmura, CCMA, AAS and Mr. William Ford IAO, AAS of IAAO (International Association of Assessing Officers) dated June 2008, as well as the recommendations of the Tax Appeals Committee and the City Assessor.
Ms. Russell reviewed the proposed amendments and explained that the amendments would require that all owners of income producing property complete and file annual reports of income and expenses, establish filing deadlines for appeals, provide language that an individual’s right to appeal is lost if any designated appeal date is missed, and establish that appeals or refunds would not be heard for prior years.
Mr. Salters expressed concern regarding penalizing an individual with a “denial of appeal”. It was his feeling that if the Income and Expense form is not returned, the penalty should be acted on at that time instead of denying an appeal, which would take place one (1) year later. For clarification, Mr. Salters requested that a legal opinion be obtained from the City Solicitor.
Ms. Russell noted that a confidentiality notice will be placed on the Income and Expense Report and it would remain confidential.
The committee tabled the proposed ordinance amending Chapter 102 - Taxation until a legal opinion is obtained from the City Solicitor.
Referring to Section 102-77 on the Committee Action Form, Mr. Salters requested that the wording be revised to state “amendment to update the language”.
By consent agenda, Mr. Salters moved for approval of the committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mrs. Williams and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Proposed Ordinance #2009-09 - Consolidation of Fees - Appendix F
Members were provided a proposed ordinance (#2009-09) that would consolidate all City fees and charges into one appendix in the City of Dover Code of Ordinances. Mrs. Terry Tieman, Senior City Administrator, explained that, currently, revisions of fees require that amendments be made in several areas of the City of Dover Code, and that consolidating the comprehensive fee schedule would be more efficient.
Mrs. Tieman assured members that there were no additional fees in Appendix F.
The committee recommended adoption of Proposed Ordinance No. 2009-09 - Consolidation of Fees - Appendix F.
By consent agenda, Mr. Salters moved for approval of the committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mrs. Williams and carried by a unanimous roll call vote. (The First Reading of the ordinance will take place during the latter part of the meeting).
Scope of Work and Cost Estimate Analysis of Re-opening the Defined Benefit Plan
During their meeting of March 13, 2009, members of the Civilian Pension Board recommended that the Controller/Treasurer be authorized to spend $4,000, using five (5) employees, to conduct an analysis of re-opening the Defined Benefit Plan.
In response to Mr. McGlumphy, Mr. DePrima explained that during the Civilian Pension Board meeting of November 21, 2008, members were provided a petition from several employees requesting that the City re-open the Defined Benefit Pension Plan. He stated that many employees feel that they were provided inaccurate information at the time they elected to join the 401(a). He further indicated that it was the belief of some employees that they are early enough in their employment that they could leave the City and obtain employment elsewhere that would provide for a pension plan, or that they could leave the City only to return and opt to become a member of the Defined Benefit Pension Plan.
Mr. David Carden stated that he elected the Deferred Pension Plan since, at that time, he was under the impression that it was the better plan. Due to the recent decline in the stock market, he now realizes the selection was a mistake. He indicated that employees would like the opportunity to buy back into the Defined Benefit Pension plan or have the option of joining a new pension plan.
In response to Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. DePrima felt that the cost of the analysis could be paid for through various budgets and that the funds would be presented to Council.
Mrs. Mitchell stated that the analysis does not affect current members of the Defined Benefit Pension Plan; therefore, members of the Civilian Pension Board were not in favor of using pension funds to pay for the analysis.
Responding to Mr. McGlumphy, Mr. Carden stated he opted into the 401(a) Plan in 1994 and he is willing to contribute the money necessary to join the Defined Pension Benefit Plan.
Mr. DePrima explained that the actuary will calculate the amount of buy back and the actuarial liability for the selected employees and that the information could then be used to determine the cost implications for re-opening the Defined Benefit Pension Plan. He also indicated the cost to perform the analysis would be $2,000, plus an additional $400 for each employee reviewed.
In response to Mr. McGlumphy, Mr. DePrima stated there would not be an impact on the Defined Pension Benefit Plan and that it would be designed to be cost neutral. He also noted that Mrs. Mitchell had suggested the possibility of opening a new pension plan as a viable alternative.
Mrs. Mitchell stated that Council would need to take action as to whether or not the 401(a) Pension Plan would be eliminated.
Responding to Mrs. Williams, Mrs. Mitchell indicated that approximately 100 (one hundred) employees would be eligible to join the Defined Pension Benefit Plan and that the 401(a) Pension Plan began in 1993.
Mr. Salters questioned what the advantages were in proceeding with the study. Responding, it was Mr. DePrima’s opinion that it is an employee satisfaction issue and the impact will not be known until the results of the study have been received.
Concurring with Mr. DePrima, Mr. McGiffin felt that there is high level of discontent amongst employees and before Council makes a decision as to whether or not to pursue re-opening the Defined Benefit Pension Plan, they should await the results of the study.
In response to Mrs. Russell, Mr. DePrima stated that his request to join the Defined Pension Plan would be treated separately.
The committee recommended approval of the Civilian Pension Board’s recommendation to authorize the Controller/Treasurer to spend $4,000 to conduct an analysis using a sample of five (5) employees to transfer from the 401(a) plan to the Defined Benefit Pension Plan.
Councilman McGiffin, Chairman of the Civilian Pension Board, advised members that there is a level of interest within the ranks of the employees to either re-open the defined benefit plan or to create a new defined pension benefit plan for those who opted out of the plan. He noted that a petition had been presented and the issue was discussed during several meetings.
During the April 27, 2009 meeting Mr. DePrima stated that funds for the $4,000 scope of work could be paid through various budgets and a funding plan would be presented to Council. Mr. McGlumphy noted that Mr. DePrima provided a memo indicating that the funds for the $4,000 scope of work would be charged to the "contracted services" line item in the City Manager's budget. There are sufficient excess funds in the "travel and training" line item and also in the "printing" line item. The excess funds for these two line items will be transferred to the "contracted services" line item.
Mr. Ruane questioned whether or not the document that was signed was irrevocable and, if so, under what legal remedy employees would have the opportunity to opt out of one and into another. He felt that the decision was made irrevocable so that the City would know what its financial responsibilities were. Mr. Ruane stated that without a legal opinion he would be unready to make a decision on this matter. Mr. McGiffin stated that the document indicated that it was irrevocable; however, both parties to a contract could agree to amend the contract. He also noted that several employees have indicated that they were not provided accurate information with regard to the plans.
Mr. Leary reminded members that the pension fund is currently gravely underfunded.
Responding to Mrs. Russell, Mrs. Mitchell stated that the defined benefit plan has never been reopened to employees who have chosen to opt out.
Mr. Salters stated that he felt it was an employee morale issue and it should be considered.
Responding to Mr. Ruane, Mrs. Mitchell stated that approximately 80 employees are in the deferred pension plan. Mr. Hogan stated that more than 20 employees signed the petition to consider reopening the defined benefit plan.
Mr. Hogan moved for approval of the Civilian Pension Board’s recommendation to authorize the Controller/Treasurer to spend $4,000 to conduct an analysis using a sample of five (5) employees to transfer from the 401(a) plan to the Defined Benefit Pension Plan. The motion was seconded by Mr. Salters and carried by a roll call vote of five (5) yes and four (4) no. (Mr. Leary, Mr. McGlumphy, Mrs. Williams, and Mr. Ruane).
Recommendation of Civilian Pension Pension Board - Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA)
During the Civilian Pension Board Meeting of January 27, 2000, members directed the City Clerk to maintain a permanent pending agenda item to review a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for City of Dover retirees prior to the third week in February each year.
During the Civilian Pension Board Meeting of March 13, 2009, members recommended forgoing a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) this year due to the funding level of the Defined Benefit Plan, the current CPI, market losses, and poor budget conditions.
In response to Dr. Jones, Mrs. Mitchell stated that an analysis was not completed to determine the cost of a COLA; however, an increase would impact the City’s unfunded liability.
The committee recommended approval of the Civilian Pension Board’s recommendation to forgo a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for FY 2010.
Mr. Hogan moved for approval of the committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Leary and unanimously carried.
Mr. Leary moved for acceptance of the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Hogan and unanimously carried.
SAFETY ADVISORY AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE REPORT - APRIL 28, 2009
The Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee met on April 28, 2009 with Chairman Leary presiding.
Review of Requested Waivers, Land Subdivision Regulations, Streets: Right-of-Way Length of Dead-End Street for Lafferty Industrial Park (SB-09-01C)
In accordance with Appendix A, Article VI, Section A15 of the Land Subdivision Regulations, a street waiver request was received from Fogarty Enterprises, LLC for property located on the south side of Lafferty Lane, west of Horsepond Road, consisting of 76.9546 +/- acres, known as the Lafferty Industrial Park. The applicants have requested a waiver of 300+/- feet from the maximum length of a dead-end/cul-de-sac street (400 feet) to permit the construction of a 700 foot cul-de-sac street, since the size of the property and the layout of the lots support the need to extend beyond 400 feet in length.
The Planning Commission recommended approval of the requested waiver from the maximum 400 foot length of a dead-end (cul-de-sac) street to allow for a street of 700 feet in length. Mrs. Melson-Williams advised members that the Planning Commission recommended approval of the waiver to exceed the maximum length of a dead-end street. Members were provided a summary of the requested waiver as follows:
Street Design Standard Required/Permitted Proposed Waiver
Maximum Length of a dead-end street 400 feet 700 feet +/- 300 feet +/-
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that, due to the shape of the property and surrounding wetlands, there is not a lot of development potential; therefore, the owner could not come forward at a later date to request another waiver to further extend the dead end street. She advised members that the property is subject to the Airport Environs Overlay Zone (AEOZ), Noise Zones C and D, Accident Potential Zone 1 (APZ1), and the Clear Zone (CZ). Building construction techniques would have to be complied with in areas with public usage, as well as height limitations for structures within those zones.
The committee recommended approval of the requested street waiver to allow for a 700 foot cul-de-sac street for the Lafferty Industrial Park.
By consent agenda, Mr. Salters moved for approval of the committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mrs. Williams and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
By consent agenda, Mr. Salters moved for acceptance of the Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee Report, seconded by Mrs. Williams and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
SEMI-ANNUAL INSPECTION BY CITY MANAGER - ROBBINS HOSE COMPANY
In accordance with Chapter 46 - Fire Prevention and Protection, Article II - Fire Department, Section 46-43 of the City Code, the City Manager, Mr. Anthony J. DePrima, met with the Fire Chief to discuss fire company issues, including Chief Strochine’s vision for the Fire Department, staffing, fleet size, turnout of fire fighters, truck maintenance contracts, and fund raising.
The vehicles appeared to be in their usual good condition. There were several vehicles away at the time of the inspection. Engine #2, the newest engine, has been in for service the past several months. The Department is very pleased with its operations as a combined engine escue truck. They are unsatisfied with their truck maintenance contractor. They intend to rebid the services when the contract runs out later this year.
By consent agenda, Mr. Salters moved for acceptance of the report of the Semi-Annual Robbins Hose Company Inspection, as submitted by the City Manager, seconded by Mrs. Williams and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
APPROVAL OF 2009 CDBG ACTION PLAN AND PROPOSED RESOLUTION
During their Regular Meeting of April 13, 2009, City Council approved the recommendation of the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee for approval of the following grant and program requests for the FY2009:
Applicant Amount Recommended
GEMS Properties 217-219 West Reed Street $6,956
Murphy School $50,483
First State; Resource Conservation and
Development Council (RC&D) $35,000
Dover Housing Authority $60,000
Downtown Dover Partnership, Inc. $42,000
City of Dover Community Development Project:
Homeownership Assistance Program $30,000
Members were provided the proposed 2009 Action Plan and Resolution. The Action Plan is a required HUD document that establishes a one year strategy for the CDBG program.
Mrs. Townshend, Director of Planning and Community Development, advised members that on April 13, 2009, Council approved the Parks, Recreation and Community Enhancement Committee’s recommendation to award Dover Housing Authority $60,000 in CDBG funding to construct 1-2 homes on vacant lots in the downtown target area for program year FY09. After the recommendations were made, Dover Housing Authority received additional grant funding through another funding source in the amount of $600,000 to assist in revitalizing the downtown area and increase homeownership through new construction and rehabilitation of existing vacant structures.
Mrs. Townshend noted that, in light of this new information, Council may wish to reconsider funding for this project. The remaining applicants; the House of Pride, Whatcoat Social Service Agency, and 301-305 West Loockerman Street were not recommended for funding due to funding limitations and their scoring below the 70 points needed to receive funding according to the City of Dover's Community Development Block Grant program guidelines. If Council determines that, due to the new information received, the Dover Housing Authority request should not be funded, funding recommended for Dover Housing Authority could be reallocated to these unfunded projects.
Following is the amount of funding requested and Committee average ranking of the three remaining funding requests:
|
House of Pride - Rehabilitation of the property at 110 S. New Street. Installation of a fire escape and vinyl siding that will service 10-15 people |
$43,000 |
67 out of 100 points |
|
Whatcoat Shelter - Rehabilitation of the educational center. New siding, windows and doors |
$15,000 |
55 out of 100 points |
|
Tolano Anderson for 301-305 W. Loockerman Street - Rehabilitation of three rental units that will service low to moderate income persons |
$75,000 |
43 out of 100 points |
The Dover Police Department also submitted an application which did not get recommended for funding; however it cannot be funded with this money, as this would exceed the amount that the City could allocate for Public Services according to HUD regulations.
Mrs. Townshend noted that the $60,000 could be used to fund the City’s Housing Rehab Program, which would be used to have contractors rehabilitate owner occupied houses for people who are income qualified.
Mr. Ruane noted that the Housing Rehab Program would fall under the 2009 Action Plan Goal #2 - Preserve the Existing Housing Stock in the City of Dover.
Mr. Ruane moved to amend Section 1.8, Proposed Activities to be Undertaken, of the 2009 CDBG Action Plan, by deleting Project 6 - Dover Community Partnership, and substituting in lieu thereof a new Project 6 - Dover Rehab Program in the amount of $60,000. The motion was seconded by Mr. McGlumphy and carried by a roll call vote of six (6) yes, three (3) abstentions (Mrs. Russell, Mr. Slavin, and Mr. Salters - Members of the Downtown Dover Partnership Board which is an applicant).
By motion of Mr. Ruane, seconded by Mr. Leary, and carried by a roll call vote of six (6) yes, three (3) abstentions (Mrs. Russell, Mr. Slavin, and Mr. Salters - Members of the Downtown Dover Partnership Board which is an applicant) Council adopted Resolution No. 2009-12, as follows:
WHEREAS, the City of Dover is entitled to $269,266 through the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block Grant program; and
WHEREAS, the City of Dover has prepared the 2009 Action Plan, in accordance with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development guidelines, that serve as the primary planning document for identifying and meeting the housing and community development needs for the low and moderate-income residents of Dover; and
WHEREAS, the City of Dover is in favor of utilizing the Community Development Block Grant funds for the community development purposes in accordance with the National Community Development objectives of benefiting low and moderate income families, eliminating slums and blight, and meeting other community development objectives; and
WHEREAS, the United State Department of Housing and Urban Development requires the City of Dover to submit a Consolidated Plan and an Action Plan for Application for Federal Assistance including the proposed use of funds and including certain certifications and policies to obtain its $269,266 entitlement; and use of $11,282 in program income for eligible activities; and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER APPROVE THE 2009 Community Development Block Grant Action Plan and application for Federal Assistance included in the Action Plan, along with certifications and policies attached and authorize its forwarding to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for consideration.
ADOPTED: MAY 11, 2009
COUNCIL APPOINTMENTS - 2009/2010
By consent agenda, Mr. Salters moved for approval of the Council Appointments for 2009/2010, seconded by Mrs. Williams and by a unanimous roll call vote, the following appointments were made:
City Assessor - Cheryl Russell
Building Inspector - Scott D. Koenig
City Clerk - Traci A. McDowell
Assistant City Clerk - Amber L. Clendaniel
Controller/Treasurer - Donna S. Mitchell
Assistant Treasurers - Traci A. McDowell and Amber L. Clendaniel
Fire Marshal - David J. Truax
City Planner - Ann Marie Townshend
City Solicitor - Nicholas H. Rodriguez
Deputy City Solicitor - William Pepper
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS - COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Mrs. Williams moved to defer the Council Standing Committee appointments until the Council Meeting of May 26, 2009, seconded by Mr. Leary and unanimously carried.
MISCELLANEOUS APPOINTMENTS - COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Mrs. Williams moved to defer the Council Standing Committee appointments until the Council Meeting of May 26, 2009, seconded by Mr. Leary and unanimously carried.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS - MAYOR
By consent agenda, Mr. Salters moved for approval of the Committee Appointments for 2009/2010, as recommended by Mayor Carey. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Williams and by a unanimous roll call vote, the following appointments were made:
Dover 4th of July Celebration Committee
Greg Patterson, President/Vice Chairman Elaine Brenchley
Donna Mitchell, Treasurer/Secretary Brad Holden
Dave Bonar Carleton E. Carey, Sr., Chairman (ex-officio member)
(City Clerk’s Office Note: Three appointments to this committee were deferred)
Dover Public Library Advisory Commission
Eugene B. Ruane
Downtown Dover Partnership
Councilwoman Sophia R. Russell Anthony J. DePrima, City Manager
Councilman Reuben Salters Ann Marie Townshend, City Planner
Councilman Timothy A. Slavin Laura Simmons, State of Delaware Representative
Gary Patterson, Resident of the Downtown Dover Area - Three Year Term (Expires 5/2012)
Cindy Small, Downtown Cultural Arts Representative - T