Kent County Levy Court Business Meeting - April 28, 2026
Kent County Levy Court Business Meeting
The Kent County Levy Court convened on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Levy Court Chambers, Room 203, 555 Bay Road, Dover, Delaware. All seven commissioners were present (Commissioners Angel, Hall, Hertz, Pepper, Scott, Sweeney, Maston, and President Maston). The meeting began with an invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, a moment of silence for fallen first responders, and roll call establishing a quorum.
Consent Calendar
- The agenda (unanimously adopted).
- Consent Agenda 2607 (unanimously adopted). No public comments were received on agenda items.
Employee of the Month – May 2026
- Valerie Rocha, Deputy Register of Wills, was recognized as Employee of the Month for May 2026. Register of Wills Douglas Cox read a resolution and a memo highlighting her exceptional dedication, compassion, and professionalism since joining the county in May 2025. Commissioners praised her work, especially in assisting families navigating the loss of loved ones. She resides in Commissioners Hall's and Pepper's districts.
Proclamations & Presentations
- Resolution 4156 – Kent County Business Week (May 3–9, 2026): Unanimously approved. The resolution recognizes the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce and nominated businesses/individuals.
- Resolution 4152 – Public Works Week (May 17–23, 2026): Unanimously approved. Public Works Director Sam Batista presented the proclamation and introduced the Public Works team. Commissioners commended the department's 24/7 work on wastewater, solid waste, and infrastructure. The team gathered for a photo. Theme: "Rooted in Service, Powered by Community."
New Employee Introductions
- Michelle Wynne Fagan – Hired March 9, 2026, as a librarian; previously worked at DHSS and New Castle County libraries. She resides in New Castle County. Commissioners welcomed her and joked about commuting.
- Jake Eddy – Hired March 30, 2026, as a computer support technician; previously a BOH manager at Chick-fil-A and desktop support at Bay Health. Resides in Sweeney's and Pepper's districts.
- Kristen Beechum – Hired March 23, 2026, as a utility services specialist; previously a patient scheduling coordinator and medical assistant. Resides in Scott's and Pepper's districts. Commissioners welcomed the new hires.
Public Hearings
- Resolution 4149 – Satterfield Stormwater Maintenance District: Staff reported all conditions met (majority petition, repairs complete, plan finalized). No public speakers for or against. Unanimously approved, effective April 28, 2026, with billing starting August 2026.
- Conditional Use Application C2602 – Delmarva Power & Light: Proposal to replace a control building at an existing electrical substation (legal nonconforming use). The Regional Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval. Attorney McKenzie Sindelar spoke in favor; no opposition. Unanimously approved based on staff and RPC recommendations.
Discussion Items
- FY27 Employee & Retiree Health Insurance Renewal: Chief Human Resources Officer Tiffany Horsey presented the renewal with Delaware Valley Health Trust/Aetna. The plan includes using $200,000 from stabilization funds to offset costs. Motion by Commissioner Angel, seconded by Hall. Unanimously approved.
- Diffuser Replacement Project – Sole Source Purchase: Sam Batista explained that 936 diffuser assemblies at the wastewater treatment plant need replacement (estimated $734,450 from Parkson Corp., plus hoses/clamps $65,550). Total equipment ~$800,000 from retained earnings. Installation and disposal (~$260,000) to be funded from contingency. Motion by Commissioner Hertz, seconded by Scott. Unanimously approved.
Key Outcomes
- Unanimous votes on all agenda items: adoption of agenda, consent agenda, resolutions 4156, 4152, 4149, C2602, health insurance renewal, and diffuser purchase.
- Information Item: Commissioner Angel reported a meeting with Senators Rochester and Coons regarding data centers, housing, energy, telecommunications reauthorization, and ARPA funding.
- Commissioner Comments: Vice President Scott encouraged supporting local community events.
- Adjournment: Motion carried unanimously.
Meeting Transcript
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