REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
The Regular Meeting of Council was held on October 12, 1987 at 7:30 p.m. with Mayor Carroll presiding. Members present were Councilmen Richter, Daisey, Legates, Lynn, Christiansen, Levitt, Weyandt and VanSant.
Staff members present were Assistant Inspections Director/Planner Cregar, City Manager Bartolotta, City Assessor Lucas, Chief of Police Klenoski, City Clerk Bittner, and City Solicitor Rodriguez.
The invocation was given by the Reverend J. H. Williams, Council Chaplain.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mayor Carroll requested that a Resolution be added to the agenda concerning emergency services relative to the Route #13 By-Pass and that a letter be added under correspondence from former Councilman Charles L. Witt.
Mr. Richter requested that an item be added to the agenda, directly following the adoption of the Minutes, to discuss the Johnson property located on Whiteoak Road. Mr. Richter also requested that an executive session be added to the agenda for legal and personnel matters.
The agenda was approved as amended by motion of Mr. VanSant, seconded by Mr. Levitt.
RESOLUTION - WORKPLACE WELLNESS MONTH
By motion of Mr. Legates, seconded by Mr. VanSant, Council unanimously adopted the following resolution:
WHEREAS, healthy employees are recognized as a valuable asset to a company; and
WHEREAS, over fifty percent of disease is caused by lifestyle risk factors such as poor diet, smoking, sedentariness, excessive stress, and obesity; and
WHEREAS, the workplace is recognized as an ideal arena for promoting the health of employees and therefore the community; and
WHEREAS, workplace wellness programs are becoming more popular as employers learn to understand disease prevention and health promotion and the increased evidence of its cost-effectiveness; and
WHEREAS, health care costs contribute significantly to a company's expenses; and
WHEREAS, planned wellness programs are considered a viable strategy for controlling health care costs;
WHEREAS, the Workplace Health Promotion Council of Delaware is holding its first annual workplace wellness conference for the employers in Delaware on November 5, 1987;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET, that November be declared Workplace Wellness Month.
ADOPTED: October 12, 1987
RESOLUTION - EMERGENCY SERVICES - ROUTE #13 BY-PASS
Mayor Carroll stated that the resolution stemmed from a meeting of personnel of the Police, Paramedic, and Fire Departments who have expressed grave concern over the Route #13 By-Pass relative to emergency services.
By motion of Mr. Weyandt, seconded by Mr. VanSant, Council unanimously adopted the following resolution:
WHEREAS, a meeting was held between the Police, Fire, and Ambulance emergency service providers and this group of dedicated people unanimously endorsed an access to the proposed by-pass from State Route #8 (Division Street) for both directions northbound and southbound for the following reasons:
1. State Route #8 is the most direct, rapid, and less encumbered route from center city Dover.
2. The intersection at U.S. Route #13 and State Route #8 is an open line of sight intersection, making it safer to cross for emergency vehicles.
3. State Route #8 is the broader, better maintained and less populated roadway leading east from Dover, giving vehicles room to yield for emergency vehicles.
4. State Route #8 is a better roadway for responding Mutual Aid Companies with tractor-trailer tank wagons for utilization in the case of a hazardous materials incident where water would have to be trucked in.
WHEREAS, this group also endorsed the need for more emergency crossovers, to be located halfway between Dennys Road interchange and the proposed Toll Gate Plaza, and halfway between the Toll Gate Plaza and the Lafferty Lane interchange; and
WHEREAS, this group endorsed the placing of emergency call boxes approximately every two miles and fire department standpipes to be located at every elevated crossover; and
WHEREAS, this group openly disagrees with the proposed emergency access from Whiteoak Road at the Toll Gate Plaza for the following reasons:
1. Whiteoak Road is a very narrow roadway with sharp curves and deep ditches and travels through a heavily congested residential area.
2. The intersection at U.S. Route #13 and Whiteoak Road is a very blind intersection for traffic traveling southbound.
3. The intersection at Whiteoak Road and Acorn Lane is a blind intersection, allowing vehicles the opportunity to pull into the path of oncoming emergency vehicles.
4. Whiteoak Road has no paved shoulders and does not allow room for vehicles to yield to emergency vehicles.
5. Whiteoak Road is a narrow, round top road, making it very dangerous to travel during adverse weather conditions.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
1. That the City of Dover formally requests that the Route #13 by-pass design incorporate the above emergency provisions into the final plan.
2. That the City Clerk be directed to make this Resolution a part of the permanent records of the City of Dover.
ADOPTED: October 12, 1987
ADOPTION OF MINUTES - REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 1987
The minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of September 28, 1987 were unanimously approved by motion of Mr. Weyandt, seconded by Mrs. Legates and unanimously carried.
JOHNSON PROPERTY - LOCATED ON WHITEOAK ROAD
Referring to Council action on September 28, 1987, concerning demolition of the Johnson property, Mr. Richter requested that Council be brought up to date on the status of the property.
Assistant Inspections Director/Planner Cregar reported that Mr. Roe and Solicitor Rodriguez visited the site and determined that the house is no longer in violation of the dangerous building ordinance. Therefore, they feel that the City is not in a position to order the building demolished. Mr. Rodriguez stated that although the building has not been completed on the inside, the exterior of the structure is no longer considered dangerous and would not fall under the dangerous building ordinance.
Mr. Richter expressed concern that Council appears to have been thwarted in their efforts and felt that consideration should be given to adoption of some means of preventing this type of situation in the future.
Mr. Levitt questioned the time limit that was set by Council for renovations. Mayor Carroll explained that a time limit was set by the date of application for a building permit, since a building permit remains in effect for one year, or as extended by the Building Inspector. Mayor Carroll stated that a certificate of occupancy will not be issued until the interior of the structure meets City Code such as electric, plumbing, heating, etc. However, Council has no jurisdiction as long as the house remains unoccupied, is secured, and is not considered a hazard to the public.
Mr. Richter moved that the matter be referred to the Legislative and Finance Committee for further discussion, seconded by Mr. Lynn and carried with Mr. VanSant voting no.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE REPORT
The Parks and Recreation Committee met on September 29, 1987 with Chairman Legates presiding.
Stemming from a request of surrounding property owners, the Parks and Recreation Committee tabled action on the proposed Saulsbury Road park. Residents requested that action be tabled to allow them an opportunity to meet and formulate their opinions and recommendations.
A letter and petition was received from surrounding property owners who voiced their support for the City to have a playground with equipment for children under the age of twelve and a sitting area for adults, with benches and flowers. Residents offered to cooperate with the City in the planning process of the proposed recreational area. It was noted, however, that a letter was received from Mrs. Harvey Johnson who expressed opposition to the proposed park.
The park proposal has been scaled down considerably since its original plan. The plans no longer call for the purchase of Dover Housing Authority property and will only encompass City owned property which totals approximately 1.5 acres of land.
Based on the overwhelming support of a majority of the residents, the committee recommended to the Committee of Committees that the City move forward with plans for the proposed park on City owned land (consisting of approximately 1.5 acres) on Saulsbury Road, in conjunction with input from involved residents.
Mrs. Legates moved for approval of the committee recommendation, seconded by Mr. Lynn and unanimously carried.
The committee also discussed a recommendation by the City Manager that the City cease maintaining the Dover Housing Authority parcel at the end of this season. For several years the City has maintained the parcel. According to City personnel, the practice stemmed from a verbal agreement between the City and the Authority that the City could utilize the vacant lot at any time in exchange for maintaining the lot.
Since the City has no use for the parcel, the committee recommended that the City Manager be directed to notify the Housing Authority that the City will cease maintaining the lot at the end of this season.
Responding to questions by Mr. Richter relative to baseball and football games being held at this lot, Mr. Bartolotta stated that the games are not City related.
Mr. Richter moved to approve the recommendation of the committee, seconded by Mrs. Legates and unanimously carried.
Dogwood Tree Replacement - Division Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
Upon inspection by the City Grounds Department, it was discovered that the Dogwood tree located in the City park at the corner of Division Street and Pennsylvania Avenue is in very poor condition. The Grounds Superintendent, Mr. William Cooper has recommended that the tree be removed and that a new tree be planted in its place. He recommended the tree be replaced with a long-living tree such as a Holly or an Oak tree. Mr. Cooper did not suggest the tree be replaced with another Dogwood since they are not considered long living trees and a Dogwood tree would be very susceptible to the same disease suffered by the present Dogwood tree.
The tree is on the Historic Trees of Dover Walking Tour and is also on the 100 Outstanding Delaware Trees list. However, noting the deteriorating condition of the tree, Mr. John Schwalm, a representative of the Delaware Forest Service, supports the recommendation to remove the tree.
The committee spent a considerable amount of time discussing the appropriate replacement for the Dogwood tree with some committee members feeling that the blooming of the Dogwood coincides with the celebration of Old Dover Days and felt that the community would be more receptive to the replacement with another Dogwood tree.
It was recommended by the Parks and Recreation Committee that staff be directed to replace the Dogwood tree, located in the City park at the corner of Division Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, with another Dogwood tree.
Mrs. Legates moved for approval of the committee recommendation, seconded by Mr. Daisey and unanimously carried.
Long Range Recreation Study
The committee approved the Scope of Work submitted by City staff for a Long Range Recreation Plan for the City of Dover. Dates were set for workshops which should assist Council members in making short-term and long-term decisions regarding recreational needs for the City of Dover.
The workshops will be held during the regular meetings of the Parks and Recreation Committee on October 27, 1987, November 24, 1987, and December 29, 1987.
Mrs. Legates urged Council attendance at the workshops on the Long Range Recreation Study and welcomed input from all members of Council.
Mr. Lynn moved for approval of the Parks and Recreation Committee Report as submitted, seconded by Mr. Daisey and unanimously carried.
SAFETY ADVISORY COMMITTEE REPORT
The Safety Advisory Committee met on September 29, 1987 with Chairman Legates presiding.
Request for Street Signs in the Woodlands of Fox Hall - Charles C. K. Martin
A request was considered for street signs in the Woodlands of Fox Hall, from Mr. Charles C.K. Martin who is a member of the Fox Hall/Woodlands Neighborhood Watch Steering Committee. The request consisted of the placement of two "Caution - Children Playing" signs and two "No Outlet" signs. The "Caution - Children Playing" signs would be located on Oakmont Road, for cars entering The Woodlands of Fox Hall, and on Carnoustie Road, for vehicles entering Fox Hall. The "No Outlet" signs would be located at Troon and Carnoustie Roads and at Merion and Troon Roads.
The committee discussed the fact that sidewalks do not exist in the Fox Hall development, making it dangerous for children to walk along or play near the streets.
It was staff's feeling that the signs would not be very effective since the vast majority of vehicles traveling within the development are residents who are already aware of the need to slow down. Mr. Martin agreed with staff on this matter, although he felt that the signs could help to remind residents of the need to slow down due to the many children playing in the area. Mr. Martin stated that his committee will attempt to reinforce this need through resident newsletters.
The committee recommended that the request be approved to place "CautionChildren Playing" signs on Oakmont Road, at the entrance the Woodlands of Fox Hall, and on Carnoustie Road, at the entrance of Fox Hall. They further recommended that "No Outlet" signs be placed at Troon and Carnoustie Roads and at Merion and Troon Roads.
Mrs. Legates moved to approve the recommendation of the committee, seconded by Mr. Lynn and unanimously carried.
Traffic on Wyoming Avenue between Governors Avenue and State Street - Millard Biddle
The committee considered a suggestion by Mr. Millard Biddle to consider the possibility of extending Gooden Street through to Governors Avenue from State Street. This would serve as a relief route for cross traffic in south Dover. Mr. Biddle referred to plans by the State of Delaware to change traffic flow on Wyoming Avenue, between Governors Avenue and State Street, in an attempt to flow more traffic through the area.
Mr. Biddle requested that the City plan for the future growth of the City by considering this proposal. He suggested, however, that the City maintain ownership of a vacant parcel of land which is located in the pathway of the proposed relief route until the matter can be investigated. This parcel of land is presently being considered for possible sale by the Committee of Committees.
It was the committee's recommendation that the contents of Mr. Biddle's letter be referred to the Committee of Committees for further consideration during their discussions on disposition of vacant properties.
Mrs. Legates moved to approve the recommendation of the committee, seconded by Mr. Daisey and unanimously carried.
By motion of Mr. Weyandt, seconded by Mr. Levitt, the Safety Advisory Committee Report was accepted as submitted.
LEGISLATIVE AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT
The Legislative and Finance Committee met on October 5, 1987 with Chairman Weyandt presiding. Referring to the minutes, under the heading "Faw Casson & Company - Parking Authority/City's Financial Statement", Mr. Weyandt stated that the date of the Parking Authority resolution should read "October 13, 1986" and not as October 13, 1987, as shown in the second paragraph.
Request for Increase in CIP Funds - Robbins Hose Company
Representatives of the Robbins Hose Company addressed the committee relative to a request for an increase in Capital Improvement Plan funds. The Robbins Hose Company is requesting funding to acquire two pieces of apparatus which need to be replaced.
On February 17, 1987, the Legislative and Finance Committee adopted a policy to fund the capital needs of the Robbins Hose Company at a level of $60,000 per year for the next 10 years. It was Council's feeling at that time, that the commitment of $60,000 over a 10 year period of time would fund one-half of the equipment needs for the Fire Company based on their Ten Year Capital Replacement Schedule.
Fire Chief Willson informed the committee that Engine #4 was scheduled for replacement during 1989 in the Capital Improvement Plan and Engine #2 was scheduled for replacement in 1994. The Fire Company has found that it is now necessary to replace the two pieces of apparatus due to extreme maintenance problems that are being incurred. A ladder was scheduled for replacement in 1993 which can be delayed for a few years.
Fire Department President, John Oliver, informed committee members that the funding program referred to was never brought before the voting members of the Robbins Hose Company and they were unaware that this was the intent of the City.
The committee spent a considerable amount of time discussing possible funding alternatives. The City Manager suggested that he and the Finance Director meet with Chief Willson and President Oliver to offer technical assistance in structuring a private loan. The loan could be guaranteed by the City's $60,000 payment, in addition to some payment by the Fire Company, and would be repaid over a 10 year period.
The committee tabled action on the matter and directed that Fire Company officials meet with the City Manager and Finance Director to review possible funding plans that would meet their needs. The funding proposals will be brought to the next Legislative and Finance Committee meeting for review.
Mr. Weyandt stated that during committee discussions, Mr. VanSant offered the suggestion of the City holding a referendum for the requested $505,000, if Robbins Hose Company would agree to revoke the $60,000 annual payment from the City for the next 10 years. No action was taken on the idea. However, Mr. Weyandt feels that the suggestion has merit and should be considered at a later date.
Forward Central Delaware - Request for Grant
During previous meetings, the Legislative and Finance Committee deferred action on a request by Forward Central Delaware for a $5,000 grant, pending the outcome of their request to Kent County. Representatives of Forward Central Delaware reported that Kent County has allotted $22,000 to their organization.
Mr. Weyandt explained that when the Forward Central Delaware Committee was created, the City of Dover approved a $5,000 grant per year for three years. it was felt at that time that the organization would be self-sufficient at the end of the three year period. Their projection fell short and they are now requesting that the City of Dover approve an additional $5,000 grant.
Members of the committee agreed that the efforts of Forward Central Delaware have proven worthwhile to the City of Dover and recommended that the City appropriate $5,000 to the Forward Central Delaware Committee from the 1987/88 fiscal year Electric Administration budget.
Mr. Weyandt moved for approval of the committee's recommendation to appropriate $5,000 to Forward Central Delaware from the Electric Administration budget for the 1987/88 fiscal year budget only. The motion was seconded by Mr. Lynn and unanimously carried.
Salvation Army - Request for Tax Exemption for Property Located on Forest Street
The committee considered a request from the Salvation Army for tax exemption for a .5876 parcel of land located on Forest Street in accordance with 9 Del. C. Sec. 8104. The property was purchased by the Salvation Army in July 1987 and the taxes had been paid by the previous owner. At the time of settlement, the Salvation Army reimbursed the seller for prorated taxes amounting to $198.25. The Salvation Army requested tax exempt status, but did not request reimbursement for the taxes already paid.
Mr. Lucas stated that 9 Del. C. Sec. 8104 specifically denotes the Salvation Army as a tax exempt organization. A portion of the building is being rented at the present time; however, the Salvation Army will advise the City on the status of any portion of the building being rented prior to April 30, 1988.
It was recommended by the committee that tax exemption be approved for the Salvation Army, Mr. Weyandt moved for approval of the committee's recommendation to grant tax exempt status to the Salvation Army for a parcel of land on Forest Street, containing approximately .5876 acres. The motion was seconded by Mr. VanSant and carried by a unanimous roll call vote.
Proposed Legislation to Abolish the Mandatory Charitable Corporation Exemption9 Del. C., See. 8013
City Solicitor Rodriguez urged the City to take action to sponsor legislation by the General Assembly to abolish the mandatory charitable corporation exemption. He stated that the Delaware Constitution leaves it to municipalities -to decide tax exempt status for real property within its boundaries. However, Sec. 81.03 takes away this discretion from the municipality and mandates that a corporation created for charitable purposes must be granted tax exempt status. It is Mr. Rodriguez's opinion that Sec. 8103, passed by the General Assembly, is contrary to the intent and spirit of the Constitution.
Mr. Weyandt reported that the City Solicitor has corresponded with other cities and towns in Delaware for their opinion on the subject.
It was the recommendation of the committee that the City Solicitor be directed to move forward with the requested legislation.
Mayor Carroll suggested the Delaware League of Local Governments be utilized to coordinate the proposal with other Delaware towns and cities.
Mr. Weyandt moved that the City Solicitor be authorized to move with the proposed legislation to abolish the mandatory charitable corporation exemption as found in 9 Del. C. , Sec. 8103. The motion was seconded by Mr. VanSant and unanimously carried.
Proposal for State Revenue Sharing Expenditures
The City Manager submitted an outline depicting his suggestion on proposed uses of State Revenue Funds, as follows:
Funds Available
State Revenue Sharing $375,900
Unallocated carry forward funds
(402,290 less 293,391 already
budgeted) +108,899
Total Funds Available $484,799
Proposed Uses of Funds
Alternative A - If Council decides to proceed with mechanized refuse collection system
Mechanized System $427,049
Replace 1978 Ambulance 57,750
Total Uses of Funds $484,799
Alternative B - If Council decides not to proceed with mechanized refuse collection system
Replace 1978 Ambulance $57,750
Raise Contingency to 3%74,904
Transfer to Park Escrow Fund125,000
Street Resurfacing Program130,145
Front End Loader 75,000
Police Radio/Telephone Recorder22,000
Total Uses of Funds $484,799
It was the City Manager's recommendation that approval be granted for the two above alternatives, pending the outcome of Council's decision on mechanized refuse collection.
Mr. Weyandt voiced concerns regarding the replacement of the 1978 Ambulance, when the formation of a Statewide Paramedic Program is still pending. He requested that the City Manager supply him with copies of all maintenance records and accident reports on City ambulances.
The Legislative and Finance Committee recommended approval of the City Manager's proposal for distribution of the new monies as outlined in Alternative A or B, depending on the City's decision on implementation of the mechanized refuse collection system.
Mr. Weyandt moved for approval of the committee's recommendation, seconded by Mr. Daisey and unanimously carried.
Mr. Richter suggested that the matter be tabled until such time as the question on the mechanized refuse collection system has been settled.
Mr. Richter moved to table the motion on the proposal for State revenue sharing expenditures, seconded by Mr. VanSant and unanimously carried.
Faw Casson & Company - Parking Authority/City's Financial Statement
The Finance Director explained that in 1981, the City assumed the management and responsibility of the Dover Parking Authority. During this period of time, the City started recording assets and liabilities of the Parking Authority as if it were one of the enterprises of the City of Dover.
Council approved a resolution on October 13, 1986 reactivating the Parking Authority which is considered an independent entity. Based on their review of the matter, the City's auditors, Faw Casson & Company, have notified the City of an intended change, feeling that the Authority should not be considered part of the City for reporting purposes and should instead be treated as an agency fund. The City Solicitor has concurred with the decision of the auditors.
It was the recommendation of the committee that the City accept the directive of Faw Casson & Company.
Mr. Richter questioned the present procedure on payment of the debt of the Parking Authority.
Mr. Worley stated that basically, the City is loaning the Parking Authority funds to pay off the debt service and according to the adopted Resolution, the City is holding in abeyance all related indebtedness to the Parking Authority until such time that the Authority becomes financially solvent to repay the debts.
Mayor Carroll stated that no Council action is necessary since this is a requirement that we must abide by.
Tax Revaluation - City Assessor
The City Assessor submitted the following tentative schedule relative to the process of revaluating all properties for the May 1988 tax billing:
October 15 - Distribution of new values to Council for review
October 22 to 29 - Prepare notices for mailing to City property owners
October 30 - Mail notices of new values
November 1 thru
February 29 - Informal appeals
March 15 to 30 - (dates tentative) Formal Council appeals
In an attempt to make the letter mailed to property owners more explicit and less complicated, members of the committee suggested that a sentence be typed in all capital letters so that it would stand out to draw the attention of property owners, to read as follows: YOUR ASSESSMENT, UPON WHICH YOUR TAXES WILL BE BASED, IS 60% OF THE FAIR MARKET VALUE.
The committee also suggested that notices show: (1) the fair market value; (2) assessed value; and (3) previous assessed value.
The City Assessor informed the committee that the letters are being printed and that he would attempt to have the changes made prior to final printing.
Since the date of the committee meeting, the City Assessor has been informed that the changes can be made to the letter before printing.
Mr. VanSant moved that Council ratify action of the Legislative and Finance Committee to expedite the required mailings, seconded by Mrs. Legates and unanimously carried.
FERC System of Accounting 1987/89 Budget
Based on a recommendation of R.W. Beck, consulting firm, Council directed that the City implement the FERC System of Budget Accounting for fiscal year 1988/89. The consultants recommended this method of accounting in order to make it easier for cost of service studies to be done in the future.
During the staff planning cycle for implementation of the FERC System, major concerns have been revealed. The present general ledger used for City accounts cannot accommodate the FERC Accounting System. Therefore, the City would be forced to either replace the existing general ledger or run a dual system of accounts. In order to replace or build a new general ledger, the City would need to expend large sums of money and resources to find a computer system that is capable of running both municipal and FERC accounts.
In reviewing PURPA requirements for the FERC Accounting System, it was indicated that utilities of our size are not required to use the FERC system at this time. It appears that it will be seven to ten years before the requirement would affect the City of Dover.
It was Mr. Weyandt's suggestion that no change be made until such time as the purchase of new computers is warranted.
Based on the many complexities involved in utilizing the FERC System of accounting, the committee recommended that the City maintain their present system of accounting until such time that the change is federally mandated and/or financially feasible to warrant the change, at which time the matter will be brought back to the committee for review.
Mr. Weyandt moved for approval of the committee's recommendation, seconded by Mr. VanSant and unanimously carried.
Wellness in the Workplace - Workplace Health Promotion Council of Delaware
Lori Christiansen, Director of Cardiovascular Disease Programs with the Division of Public Health, commended employees of the Dover Power Plant for their successful efforts in promoting wellness in the workplace. The month of November has been proclaimed Wellness in the Workplace Month in Delaware by Governor Castle. Ms. Christiansen requested that the City support the promotion of healthy lifestyles for City employees and to support an expanded wellness program within the City.
Mr. Levitt pointed out that organizations involved in a healthy lifestyle commitment usually notice less utilization of health care facilities which results in lower insurance premiums.
Mr. Weyandt commended Power Plant employees on their involvement in the program and encouraged all departments of the City to participate.
The committee recommended that the City of Dover support the promotion of healthy lifestyles in the City of Dover.
Mr. Weyandt moved for approval of the recommendation of the committee, seconded by Mr. Daisey and unanimously carried.
Discussions - Charter Changes
The committee discussed several possible changes to the City of Dover Charter. Mr. Weyandt stated that the committee will continue with these discussions through November and will bring a full list of recommendations to Council upon completion.
Mr. Levitt moved for approval of the Legislative and Finance Committee Report as submitted, seconded by Mr. Lynn and unanimously carried.
UTILITY COMMITTEE WORKSHOP - COMPREHENSIVE SEWER STUDY
The Utility Committee met in a workshop session on October 8, 1987 to discuss financing alternatives outlined in the Comprehensive Sewer Study, as prepared by Whitman, Requardt and Associates. It was recommended that a public hearing be held on this subject on November 2, 1987 at 7:30 p.m. , in conjunction with the Quarterly Open Town Meeting of Council.
Mr. Richter moved that a public hearing be set for November 2, 1987 at 7:30 p.m. to receive public input on financing alternatives outlined in the Comprehensive Sewer Study. The motion was seconded by Mr. Weyandt and unanimously carried.
Mr. Weyandt reiterated previous concerns of the projection accuracy of Whitman, Requardt & Associates, reminding members of Council of the large discrepancy between estimates and actual costs in the Constitution Place Project.
REZONING REQUEST - PROPERTY LOCATED ON ROUTE #8 (150' EAST OF STONEY DRIVE) VILLAGE BUILDERS, INC.
A rezoning request was received for property located on Route #8 (1501 east of Stoney Drive), owned by Village Builders, Inc.
Prior to amending the zoning ordinances and zoning map of the City of Dover, a public hearing is required.
By motion of Mr. VanSant, seconded by Mr. Lynn, Council unanimously adopted the following Resolution and referred the request to the Planning Commission.
A RESOLUTION SETTING FORTH TIME AND PLACE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON A PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE ZONING MAP FOR THE CITY OF DOVER AND DIRECTING THAT NOTICE OF SAID HEARING BE PUBLISHED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE DELAWARE CODE.
WHEREAS, certain lands located on Route #8 (150' east of Stoney Drive) are presently zoned for R-8 and RG-2 use, and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to hold a public hearing prior to amending the zoning map and zoning ordinance of the City of Dover.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
1. That a public hearing be held in City Hall on December 14, 1987 at 7:30 p.m. on a proposed amendment to the zoning map that would rezone from R-8 and RG-2 to RM-1 that property located on Route #8 (1501 east of Stoney Drive), owned by Village Builders, Inc.
2. That notice of the public hearing be given in accordance with the provisions of the Delaware Code.
ADOPTED: October 12, 1987
CORRESPONDENCE
Request for Annexation - Howard F. Pollitt
A letter was received from Howard F. Pollitt requesting annexation of his property located on Forest Avenue, consisting of lots 35, 36, 37, 58, 59, 60, and 5' of lots 34 & 57.
Mr. Richter moved for referral to the Utility Committee and Planning Commission, seconded by Mr. Lynn and unanimously carried.
Mechanized Trash Collection - Jean M. Ringer
Ms. Jean M. Ringer of 527 William Street directed a letter to Councilman Christiansen voicing her objections to the mechanized trash collection system, feeling that the containers are unsightly and too large, making it difficult for utilization by the elderly. Ms. Ringer is presently utilizing the large alley container and she requested the opportunity to experiment with the smaller, 90 gallon container.
Mr. Richter moved for referral to the Utility Committee for consideration, seconded by Mr. Levitt and unanimously carried.
Parking in Front of Queens Manor Apartments - Patrick Knight
A letter was received from Mr. Patrick Knight explaining a hazardous intersection at Queen Street and Bank Lane. Mr. Knight stated that due to vehicles parked in front of Queens Manor Apartments, it is very difficult to see oncoming cars when making a left turn onto Queen Street from Bank Lane. It was his suggestion that parking be prohibited in front of Queens Manor Apartments.
Mr. Lynn moved that the matter be referred to