Regular City Council Meeting
iCal

Apr 11, 2005 at 12:00 AM

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

The Regular Council Meeting was held on April 11, 2005 at 7:30 p.m. with Council President Williams presiding. Council members present were Mr. Carey, Mr. Pitts, Mr. Sadusky, Mr. Slavin, Mr. Ritter, Mr. Hogan, Mr. Salters, and Mr. Ruane.

Council staff members present were Police Chief Horvath, Mrs. Mitchell, Mr. Galvin, Fire Chief Bashista, Mr. DePrima, City Solicitor Rodriguez, Mrs. Green, and Mayor Speed.

OPEN FORUM

The Open Forum was held at 7:15 p.m., prior to commencement of the Official Council Meeting. Council President Williams declared the Open Forum in session and reminded those present that Council is not in official session and cannot take formal action.

Mr. Joseph Cugnini, 133 Upland Avenue, advised members that he has been having difficulty sending e-mails from the homepage of the City of Dover’s website. Council President Williams noted that the IT Director was in the audience and suggested the Mr. Cugnini talk with him directly regarding the problem. Mr. Cugnini also relayed concern with the Delaware State News Shopper being distributed throughout the City. They are being blown around the yards and have been caught in the drains causing blockage. He questioned if they could either be weighted down or distributed in another manner that would prevent them from blowing around.

The invocation was given by Chaplain Dixon, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS

Mr. Carey moved for approval of the agenda as presented, seconded by Mr. Sadusky and unanimously carried.

Mr. Hogan requested the removal of items #8A-#8D from the consent agenda.

Mr. Carey moved for approval of the consent agenda as amended, seconded by Mr. Salters and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.

ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 28, 2005

The Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of March 28, 2005 were unanimously approved by motion of Mr. Carey, seconded by Mr. Salters and bore the written approval of Mayor Speed.

CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION - GEOFFREY “ROCKY” MYERS

The following Certificate of Recognition was read into the record by Mayor Speed:

WHEREAS, Geoffrey R. Myers is a Dover native and student at Wesley College with a perfect 4.0 grade point average; and

WHEREAS, Geoffrey R. Myers has received the prestigious Gagliardi Trophy for being the top Division III football player in the nation; and

WHEREAS, Geoffrey R. Myers has volunteered at St. Thomas More’s Youth Basketball Camp, as a math tutor for high school students, in the Guidance Office at Central Middle School and at various other youth oriented programs; and

WHEREAS, Geoffrey R. Myers has received a host of institutional scholarships and awards for outstanding academic performance; and

WHEREAS, Geoffrey R. Myers is an exceptional young man who has been a tremendous help to others at Wesley College and in the Dover community.

NOW THEREFORE I, STEPHEN R. SPEED, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE, do hereby award this Certificate of Recognition to Geoffrey “Rocky” Myers on this 11th day of April 2005, and commend him for his commitment to the youth of Dover and extend best wishes on all future endeavors.

Mayor Speed presented Mr. Myers with the Certificate of Recognition, explaining that the Gagliardi Trophy is the Division III equivalent of the Heisman Trophy, with the addition that it includes academics. On behalf of the City of Dover, Mayor Speed commended Mr. Myers for his efforts in achieving such a prestigious award.

Mr. Myers thanked the Mayor and Council for the recognition and his appreciation to his family, and friends, and the administration at Wesley College for their support.

CERTIFICATE OF COMMENDATION - MEMBERS OF THE DOVER FIRE DEPARTMENT

The City Clerk read the following Certificate of Commendation into the record:

WHEREAS, on Saturday, January 1, 2005 the Robbins Hose Fire Company was alerted for a motor vehicle accident at Scarborough and McKee Roads; and

WHEREAS, upon arrival, members observed three cars involved in the accident, one of which had fire coming through the back window impinging on the unconscious patient who was trapped in the vehicle and inhaling smoke and heated gases from the burning vehicle; and

WHEREAS, the patient was removed from the vehicle, under extremely dangerous conditions to the firefighters involved, within 13 minutes from time of dispatch; and

WHEREAS, while crews worked on the priority vehicle, additional crews worked on the second vehicle which had two patients severely trapped, both of whom were extricated within 21 minutes from time of dispatch; and

WHEREAS, due to the quick response, training, and leadership of the Dover Fire Department, lives were saved by those volunteers who assisted in this rescue, and who are deserving of special recognition.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE, are honored to present this

Certificate of Commendation to

EDWIN BAKER, III

BRIAN BASHISTA

CHARLES BOYER

DAVID CAREY

MATTHEW CAREY

CARLETON CAREY, JR.

CARLETON CAREY, SR.

SEAN CHRISTIANSEN

ALAN FARLING

JACK FORTNEY

GLENN GILLESPIE

MARK HALL

REED JONES

DAVID KNIGHT

VALERIE KNIGHT

DEREK LARSON

JOHN LECOMPTE, II

NICOLE MARK

SHADRACK MINOR

ALLEN MOORE, JR.

TIMOTHY MULLANEY

JOHN OLIVER, III

JASON OSIKA

JONATHAN OSIKA

RAYMOND OSIKA

STEPHEN SAPP

JOSEPH SIMMONS

SHARON SIMPKISS

TREY SMALL

BENJAMIN SMETANA

RICK THOMAS

MICHAEL THOMPSON

TERRY WHITHAM

JOHN WILLSON

ROGER WOLFGANG

JASON ZIEGLER

on this 11th Day of April 2005

Mayor Speed and Council President Williams presented Chief Bashista with the Certificate and relayed their appreciation to the men and women who volunteer to serve for the Dover Fire Department.

In thanking members for the recognition, Chief Bashista explained that although every day there are serious incidences in the City, this particular incident was one of the most serious accidents he has responded to during his career. Those that responded had to go beyond what is normally required to save a life and members of the Dover Fire Department did an outstanding job.

PRESENTATION TO COUNCILMAN SALTERS - GFWC FEDERATION GUILD - MRS. TRICIA RODRIGUEZ

Mrs. Rodriguez advised members that the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) Federation Guild recently raised $20,000 for the purchase of a school bus van, as well as text books and desks, for an orphanage in Kakamega, Africa. The previous mode of transportation for these children was a bicycle. She noted that there are 707 AIDS orphans who are healthy children. Mrs. Rodriguez advised members that when the group went on a Safari she thought of all that Mr. Salters has done for our community in educating us on African culture, including his vision in starting the Cultural Center in the City of Dover. As a result, while in the Masada National Park, Mrs. Rodriguez purchased an African Scarf for him.

Mrs. Rodriguez presented Mr. Salters with the scarf and requested that he wear it for the duration of the meeting to represent all that he has meant to this City and State of Delaware.

PUBLIC HEARING/FINAL READING - REZONING OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT 585 FOREST STREET, 111 SOUTH WEST STREET, AND 122 SOUTH KIRKWOOD STREET, OWNED BY ROBERT M. DUNCAN

A public hearing was duly advertised for this time and place to consider rezoning of property located on the north side of Forest Street, between South West Street and South Kirkwood Street, being 585 Forest Street, 111 South West Street, and 122 South Kirkwood Street, owned by Robert M. Duncan. The properties are currently zoned C-3 (Service Commercial) and C-2 (Central Commercial) and the proposed zoning is C-1A (Limited Commercial).

Planner's Review

Mr. Galvin, Director of Planning and Inspections, reviewed the petition to amend the zoning district and the findings and recommendations of the Planning Commission (Exhibit #1). The Planning Commission recommended denial of the rezoning request for property located at 585 Forest Street, 111 South West Street, and 122 South Kirkwood Street.

Responding to Mr. Ruane, Mr. Galvin explained that this area of the City from Kirkwood Street to the railroad tracks is primarily zoned for offices and service commercial uses. The retail uses along Loockerman Street ends at Kirkwood Street, which Mr. Galvin stated should remain. The office and service uses are appropriate as a transition between the retail uses and the residential neighborhood.

Public Hearing

Council President Williams declared the hearing open.

Mr. Robert Duncan, 2219 Morgans Choice Road (Camden), property owner and applicant of the rezoning, felt that this was a simple rezoning application. He explained that the area has been made into an office and retail area. At the present time, he stated the convenience store is a large retail store and that there is other retail in this area. Mr. Duncan stated that the proposed use for the property is for a package store. He noted that during the Planning Commission meeting, there was opposition to alcohol being sold in this area and felt that this is a decision for the Alcohol Beverage Control Commission, not the City of Dover. Mr. Duncan disagreed that the retail on Loockerman Street ends at Kirkwood, explaining that his current establishment entails retail; therefore, it was his opinion that retail ends at the railroad tracks. He stated that there have been substantial improvements made in this area and that the concerns of what happened 10-15 years ago should no longer be considered an issue. Without retail, it was his feeling that there will be no reason for people to come to the area.

Pastor Theodore Henderson, 506 Wyoming Avenue, stated that he is the current Pastor of the Dover Christian Church and that he is not anti-development. Growing up, he advised members that he lived in a “high risk” area, similar to Kirkwood Street, where there was an abundance of establishments that were there for the sake of profit. He felt that those that make a profit should give consideration to the neighborhood, explaining that the residents also have an investment in the area, their children. Unless there is a guarantee that there will be no alcohol sales, he will not support the rezoning request. Mr. Henderson requested that members keep in mind that it is their responsibility to assure responsible development in our City.

Pastor Richard Avant, 9 Waterwheel Circle, stated that he is the Pastor of the Calvary Baptist Church located at Queen and Fulton Streets, as well as the Route 8 complex. He is also the President of the Inter-denominational Ministerial Alliance in this area, which is comprised of approximately 15 churches and 4,000 members. Pastor Avant relayed his opposition to the rezoning request, explaining that he remembers back in the 1980's when the ministers of this area were contacted by the Police Chief to help “clean up” Kirkwood Street. He advised members that 15 years ago Kirkwood Street was in deplorable condition. Today, Kirkwood Street is totally different, which is the result of all the work that was done in this area. It is feared that a liquor store in this area will jeopardize its integrity and historical value. Pastor Avant advised members that the residents of the House of Pride are recovering alcoholics and drug addicts and that property proposed for rezoning is within walking distance of the House of Pride and requested that members consider not placing this temptation in such close proximity.

Bishop L.T. Blackshear, 996 Boggs Drive, stated that he is the Pastor of Bible Way Temple Church of God in Christ located on Kirkwood and Reed Streets. He indicated his concurrence with those that previously spoke in opposition of the rezoning. Bishop Blackshear stated his strong opposition to the request, feeling that it would do a disservice to this community and be a step backwards to endorse the rezoning request.

Pastor Anthony Wallace, Towne Point, stated that he is the Senior Pastor of the Crossroads Christian Church in north Dover; however, he owns two (2) properties within 1,000 feet of the property proposed for rezoning. He also relayed his concurrence with the previous speakers in opposition to the request. Although it is not the only component that involves their opposition, alcohol is a major concern, explaining that he is personally involved with people who have succumbed to the ravages of alcohol. Pastor Wallace stated that there is a precedence that there be a buffer between residential homes and retail establishments. He too felt it would be taking a step backwards by allowing a liquor store in this area and suggested that members approve the Planning Commission’s recommendation to deny the rezoning request.

Ms. Bridget Avant, 9 Waterwheel Circle, stated that she was born and raised on Fulton Street and she relayed appreciation for what Mr. Duncan has done for the community. Ms. Avant also relayed appreciation to the City for their efforts in cleaning up Kirkwood Street and stated she would appreciate if retail uses would be required to remain on Loockerman Street.

Mr. William Charlton, 258 Beechwood Avenue, stated that a few years ago, Kirkwood Street had that reputation that you were not to go there to keep yourself out of trouble. That is not the case today. All residents of the City deserve, need, and look forward to feeling safe and secure in our community. It was his feeling that alcohol is not a substance that allows us to grow in a positive manner.

There being no one else wishing to speak, Council President Williams declared the hearing closed.

At the request of Mr. Ruane, those in the audience in opposition to the rezoning request were asked to stand, as well as those in favor. Note by the City Clerk: It is estimated that more than 20 people stood in opposition, with two (2) people that stood in support of the rezoning request.

Mr. Hogan commended Mr. Duncan, residents of Kirkwood Street, and former Mayors, Council, and City Staff for the improvements made to the west area of downtown Dover. He also felt that the terminology of retail has been misused as it is permitted under the current and requested zoning classifications. He agreed with Mr. Duncan that the proposed liquor store is not the subject matter, but that consideration should be given to the types of uses permitted in the C-1A zoning classification. Mr. Hogan noted the different types of retail permitted in C-3, C-2, C-1, and C-1A, and explained his support for the current retail that is permitted; however, he does not support the type of retail that is requested.

Mr. Salters moved to deny the rezoning request for properties located at 585 Forest Street, 111 South West Street, and 122 South Kirkwood Street, as recommended by the Planning Commission. The motion was seconded by Mr. Ruane and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.

LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE REPORT -MARCH 28, 2005

The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee met on March 28, 2005 with Chairman Salters presiding.

City Assessment Update - Cole Layer Trumble Company

The City Assessor’s Office has been conducting a reassessment of properties throughout the City of Dover during the past year, to be effective with the tax billings for May 1, 2005. Mr. Joe Pizzoli of Cole Layer Trumble Company provided committee members with details of the commercial valuations for the reassessment. For the top 50 properties, there will be a significant percentage increase from the old to the new assessment, from a value of $434M to $593M. He stated that a few areas of concern were with the industrial properties that have decreased in value. One specific property is that of Kraft Foods, who appealed their old assessment, which decreased from $31.4M to $20.6M. Collectively, the value for the major industrial properties has decreased approximately $30M. Fortunately, with the increase in value of other properties, that decrease has been off-set, providing a 37% increase overall. He reminded members that this is for the top 50 commercial properties only.

Mr. Pizzoli stated that of the highest 50 commercial properties, the lowest property on the list was previously appraised at $3.8M, and that this property has been reassessed at $8.8M. The highest property on the list was previously appraised at $48.8M, which was the old assessment for Dover Downs.

Mr. Rob Engel, Project Manager with Cole Layer Trumble Company, advised members that there has been a significant increase in residential values in the City of Dover. Unfortunately, he stated that he has not yet finalized the total reassessment. Unlike commercial properties, he explained that the income approach is not considered in the appraisal of residential properties; however, the cost and market value approach is used. With a revaluation, areas that have increased dramatically in value will have an increase in their property assessment and will pay accordingly. Mr. Engel explained that the same is true for those areas where there has not been an increase, and property owners have essentially been paying too much. He stated that the effective date of value of the property reassessment is as of January 1, 2005.

The committee recommended acceptance of the report on the City Assessment Update provided by Cole Layer Trumble Company.

By consent agenda, Mr. Carey moved for approval of the committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Salters and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.

By consent agenda, Mr. Carey moved for acceptance of the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Salters and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.

PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE REPORT - MARCH 29, 2005

The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee met on March 29, 2005 with Chairman Pitts presiding.

Discussion - Drafting of a Vacant Building Ordinance

The Downtown Dover Merchants Association requested consideration of amendments to Chapter 5 of the Dover Code with regard to vacant buildings to include the following: 1) Vacant Buildings in the Business Improvement District (BID) be subject to the same code as occupied buildings; 2) A vacant building in the BID Tax District be subject to “Vacancy Registration Fees”, similar to Wilmington’s Annual Registration and Vacant Building Fees (Wilmington Ordinance 03-019). Properties are deemed vacant if “No person or persons actually currently conducts a lawfully licensed business, or lawfully resides or lives in any part of the building” (Wilmington City, Chapter Four, City Code Section 4-27,125.0(b)(1)(F); and, 3) This ordinance would be enforced by the City of Dover Department of Planning and Inspections. Registration fees and fines could be used to fund additional inspectors for enforcement and, therefore, would be virtually self supporting.

During the committee meeting of March 15, 2005, staff provided members with a draft outline of a possible Vacant Building ordinance modeled on the City’s existing ordinance and several ordinances obtained from other communities. However, discussion on the concept was deferred.

During the committee meeting, representatives of the Downtown Dover Merchants Association expressed their concern about the many vacant buildings downtown and suggested that the City should take action to make the current property owners of these vacant buildings responsible for bringing their buildings up to code. Although they felt that a great deal of effort has been made by the City of Dover, Main Street Dover, and the Downtown Dover Development Corporation to revitalize the downtown area, Downtown Dover is still not vibrant or thriving. It is still an area with problems and the first noticeable problem is the many vacant buildings. If this problem of vacant buildings can be solved, it was felt that it would help with solving the other long term problems.

Mr. Ed Perez of Main Street Dover stated that the revitalization of Dover was started over two (2) years ago. Meetings were held with many of the vacant property owners and there was not much progress. Mr. Perez added that attracting new investors is hard with all the vacant properties.

After much discussion, Mr. Galvin advised members that any ordinance considered would apply Citywide and there would be other attributes that would have to be taken into account. Mayor Speed and Mr. Galvin suggested that members get an endorsement from Council to move forward with the creation of a vacant building ordinance before the committee spends too much time defining the specifics of the ordinance. Mayor Speed also stated that the merchants present were only a small group of people, however; the proposed ordinance would have an impact on a much larger group; therefore, by getting Council’s endorsement it will be presented to the public and would give others an opportunity to provide input.

The committee recommended that the City move forward with the development of a vacant building and lot ordinance, covering residential, commercial, and industrial properties and that this process involve the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee holding public evening meetings, along with the Planning Department.

Mr. Pitts advised members that there has been information received from other interested parties regarding the development of a vacant building ordinance. He suggested that this matter be referred back to staff to provide them the opportunity to meet with all interested parties and report back to the committee.

Mr. Pitts moved to refer the development of a vacant building and lot ordinance for residential, commercial, and industrial properties back to staff. The motion was seconded by Mr. Carey.

Mr. Hogan stated that the committee’s recommendation was to obtain Council’s support for the development of a vacant building ordinance using staff, the committee, and the public. It is not creating or guaranteeing that there will be an ordinance. It simply allows for the committee to study the issue. He questioned the purpose in sending the matter back to staff. The recommendation was to determine if Council felt the matter deserved further consideration, if not, he suggested that Council reject the committee’s recommendation.

Mr. Salters felt that by referring the matter back to staff, they could then meet with the various groups that are interested in this issue and then report back to the committee with a recommendation.

Mr. Carey explained that his intention for seconding the motion was to refer the matter back to staff to allow additional information to be gathered, more input from the public, business people, real estate people, etc. so that everyone will understand the issue if a vacant building ordinance is proposed.

Noting that the committee has already held a couple of meetings on this issue, Mr. Ruane felt that they should have participated and relayed their concerns at that time. He also felt that members should be sensitive to a request made by the Downtown Merchants Association for the City to consider the development of an ordinance to address vacant buildings.

Responding, Mr. Pitts stated that there has only been one (1) meeting when the committee discussed the concept of a proposed vacant building ordinance. At that meeting, he stated that there was a lot of disagreement as to how the City should move forward with this matter. It was his opinion that more information is necessary that should be obtained by staff to be presented to the committee. Mr. Pitts felt assured that another month would not delay the City from adopting an ordinance and that the committee will receive better input from the citizens once the additional information is obtained.

Mr. Ritter reminded members that if they wish to discuss the concept of developing an ordinance or have staff develop an ordinance, all that is necessary is for three (3) members of Council to support the concept. Upon receipt of the required sponsors, staff would then develop the proposed ordinance for consideration by the committee. It was his opinion that at this point in time, members have no real idea of what is desired; therefore, he concurred that the matter be referred back to staff for gathering enough information that will allow members to make an intelligent decision. Should three (3) members wish to push forward in having an ordinance drafted at this time, then they should contact staff to draft an ordinance for sponsoring.

Mr. Hogan questioned why, if members desire more input, the motion was to develop an ordinance by using the committee, the public, and staff during public evening meetings to obtain as much participation as possible.

The motion to refer the matter back to staff for the development of a vacant building and lot ordinance for residential, commercial, and industrial properties was carried by a roll call vote of seven (7) yes and two (2) no (Mr. Hogan and Mr. Ruane).

By consent agenda, Mr. Carey moved for acceptance of the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee Report, seconded by Mr. Salters and unanimously carried.

PROPOSALS/BIDS

Members reviewed the following proposals/bids:

IT Help Desk Tracking and Network Security/Performance Monitoring

The City currently utilizes a variety of methods developed in-house to track IT related work orders and assets. By utilizing one common commercial tool for tracking all IT service requests, central records would be more timely, comprehensive, and accurate. In addition, a knowledge base would begin to form which would assist personnel in identifying patterns or recurrences of problems. As a part of the approved IT plan, Berry, Dunn, McNeil, and Parker (BDMP) recommended that the City also purchase a software package that would allow staff to monitor server and network security, as well as monitor network hardware and bandwidth utilization.

The two (2) projects were combined since staff determined that there were vendors that could provide an integrated solution. Staff recommended awarding the contract for Help Desk Tracking System and Network Security/Performance Monitoring to the low bidder, Intuit Information Technology Solutions, in the amount of $31,316.25 (an amount of $4,493.75 is the projected annual maintenance for next four fiscal years).

Mr. Carey moved for approval of staff’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Sadusky and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.

Agenda and Legislative Management Software

The City Clerk submitted a request for the purchase of Agenda and Legislative Management Software, which is a legislative work flow and document management system that manages drafting, tracking, indexing, attachments and exhibits, and reporting for the City. The software will include the posting of agendas, minutes, and packets to the City’s Website. The purchase of this software will provide the consistency of one program for all aspects of legislative documents and eliminate the need to manually track pending items, such as citizen requests, staff directives, etc. that do not necessarily require committee/council review.

Mrs. Green explained that this project will improve the ability to generate legislative type reports quickly and efficiently, improve communications with city staff, provide exceptional benefits for the Paperless Packet Project and improve community relations. Staff recommended authorizing the purchase of Agenda and Legislative Management Software (NovusAGENDA) from the lowest acceptable bidder, Novusolutions, in the amount of $28,500.

Mr. Carey moved for approval of staff’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Sadusky and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.

Radio Console Furniture Purchase - Police Department

The Police Department is in the process of upgrading its current 800 MHz radio system in its dispatch area, which includes radio consoles (radio computers) and radio console furniture. The money for this upgrade has been secured through the FY 2004 Weapons of Mass Destruction funding through the Law Enforcement funds. The funds are secured and currently at DEMA awaiting disbursement.

Staff has researched different consoles and is of the opinion that the Xybix Systems consoles fit the current and future requirements adequately. Members were provided the sole vendor justification for purchasing radio console furniture from Xybix Systems. Captain Sammons explained that the purchase through the City’s processing system is more expedient than the State of Delaware. Due to the time constraints on the funding, staff requested permission to purchase the radio console furniture through the City’s Purchasing Policy. He assured members that if approved, the Police Department will place the order with assistance from DEMA and that the invoice will be paid by DEMA with the Weapons of Mass Destruction funds which have been secured for this project.

Mr. Carey moved to approve the purchase of the radio console furniture from Xybix Systems, in the amount of $62,966, to be paid by DEMA utilizing Weapons of Mass Destruction funds for the City of Dover Police Department. The motion was seconded by Mr. Salters and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.

Replacement of Heating and Cooling Units - Dover Parks and Recreation Building

During the committee meeting held earlier in the evening, members considered a request to increase the Parks and Recreation Department budget by $25,515, to allow for the replacement of the heating and cooling units at the Dover Parks and Recreation building. Members were advised that the Parks and Recreation Department budget includes $11,980 for replacement of the cooling unit for the Dover Park building, which was revised to $12,485 in November 2004 based on a more recent cost estimate. During March 2005, after a complete re-evaluation with our heating contractor was conducted, staff recommended that the heating unit, along with the cooling unit, be replaced in the Dover Park building. This is due to the age of the heating equipment, along with the fact that the heater company is no longer in business. The current AC unit must be replaced at this time and it would be cost efficient to replace the aging heating unit at the same time.

The committee recommended that line item 110-1500-525-40-25 (Parks and Recreation Department budget) be increased by $25,515, for a total line item amount of $38,000, for the replacement of the heating and cooling units at the Dover Parks and Recreation building, as recommended by staff.

During the committee meeting, it was noted that since the cost estimate is over $25,000, bids would be solicited and presented to Council for approval.

Mr. Salters moved for approval of the committee’s recommendation, seconded by Mr. Hogan and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.

FINAL READING - PROPOSED ORDINANCES

Mr. Salters moved to vote on the adoption of item #9C, Chapter 4.5 - Bicycles and Other Similar Human-Powered Vehicles, separately, seconded by Mr. Carey and carried with Mr. Ritter voting no.

The First Reading of the following proposed ordinances was accomplished during the Council Meeting of March 28, 2005:

Revised Budgets for Fiscal Year 2004/2005

Mr. Slavin moved that the Final Reading of the proposed ordinance be acknowledged by title only, seconded by Mr. Hogan and unanimously carried.

Mr. Slavin moved for adoption of the following ordinance, seconded by Mr. Salters and carried by a roll call vote of eight (8) yes, and one (1) no (Mr. Ritter):

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:

That the amounts hereinafter named in various City funds are changed from the currently approved revenues/receipts and appropriations to the revised revenues/receipts and revised appropriations for use by the various departments of the Municipal Government for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2004 and ending June 30, 2005:

A.  GENERAL FUND                                                                                                    

                                                                                           Current                Additions              Revised

      RECEIPTS                                                                  Budgets            (Reductions)             Budgets

      Beginning Balance                                                 $2,917,154               $(141,107)        $2,776,047

      Business Licenses                                                    1,214,793                     15,207          1,230,000

      Permits & Other Licenses                                         1,040,580                 (100,000)             940,580

      Transfer Tax                                                             1,400,000                   300,000          1,700,000

      DSWA-Trash Fee Rebate                                            162,000                     13,583             175,583

      Court of Chancery Fees                                               480,000                     40,000             520,000

      Internet Service Revenue                                              26,460                     (6,460)               20,000

      Sale of Land                                                                          ---                     16,750               16,750

      Intrafund Service Receipts Water/Wastewater         1,025,270                   (18,982)          1,006,288

      Intrafund Service Receipts Electric                          3,873,593                   (66,663)          3,806,930

      Grants:

             Recreation                                                             130,000                 (110,000)               20,000

             State Grant- Trail Maintenance                                      ---                       1,200                 1,200

      Tree Planting Grant                                                              ---                     13,000               13,000

      Transfer from Municipal Street Aid                            780,000                     12,000             792,000

      Transfer from Civic Traffic Penalties                          800,000                 (300,000)             500,000

      Net Adjustments                                                                                       (331,472)

                                                                                            Current              Additions              Revised

      EXPENSES                                                                 Budgets            (Reductions)             Budgets

Council148,387(6,550)141,837

      Tax Assessor                                                 &#

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