Okay, that's like one.

Hey, Kevin.

I have a you know that's that's what happened.

Oh, that's right.

Uh when you think what you're gonna do.

Yeah, we're gonna send this idea.

Do I compete?

Well, come on, look.

No problem.

I was just saying right there.

Oh, you should work like what we want to do.

Oh, do you want to do that?

Which letters in front?

We got a follow you.

I don't think you have this program.

They just married the day.

I can't watch cars.

I don't know what's called.

I'm just here back.

So Jack and Jim.

Jack should have a lot of things.

I slide it on the road.

Oh, it's not speaking.

Right.

7 p.m.

on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.

I'd like to call the Kent County Levy Court Business Meeting to order.

We're at 555 Bay Road, Dover, Delaware, Levy Court Chambers, Room 203.

With that, I will turn it over to the County Administrator, Kevin Sippel.

Thank you, Madam President.

This meeting is being held in person at 555 Bay Road, Dover, Delaware.

And the learning court chambers.

We're also making it available via the internet through WebEx.

Participants can join us by phone or by computer during the meeting.

There will be opportunities for public comment for those attending in person or online.

When the President opens a press a public comment period.

Those attending in person may step forward to one of the two podiums and be recognized.

If you're joining us by phone and wish to comment, please press star three, which will raise your electronic hand.

Our operator will identify you and bring you into the meeting.

Pressing star six will mute and unmute your line.

If you are online, you will see a hand and microphone icon at the bottom of your screen.

Please use those at the appropriate times.

We ask guests to begin public comments by setting your name and address for the record.

The county attorney will administer an oath of affirmation to anyone giving testimony during a public hearing.

We ask that public comments relate to the subject announced by the President.

In addition to public hearings, there are two public comment periods, one at the beginning of the meeting for agenda items and one near the end of the meeting for general comments.

This meeting is being recorded and we will follow the rules and procedures adopted by Levy Court as well as a Mason rules of order.

Thank you.

I would ask Commissioner Pepper for the invocation.

Commissioner Hall to lead the Pledge of Allegiance.

Commissioner Sweeney for a moment of silence for our troops and first responders, and I would ask everyone to please remove your hats and please stand.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing us to come together this evening to consider important issues dealing with your land.

Please guide us, let us make decisions that are not only pleasing to you, but pleasing to our constituents.

Amen.

Please remember these individuals.

First responders who died in the line of duty as well as keeping their families in your thoughts and prayers as they deal with the loss of their loved ones.

Deputy Sheriff Thomas LeMay from the LaFour County Sheriff's Office in Oklahoma.

Police Officer Dallas Hinton from the Thomasville Police Department, Alabama, and Police Officer John Bartholomew from the Chicago Police Department, Illinois.

Thank you.

Mr.

Angel.

Here.

Mr.

Hall?

Here.

Mr.

Hertz.

Here.

Mr.

Pepper?

Here.

Mr.

Scott.

Here.

Mr.

Sweeney?

Here.

Mrs.

Maston.

Here.

Madam President.

Roll call and reveal.

Seven present.

Let the record show we have seven commissioners present, so we have a quorum.

Uh motion to adopt the current current agenda.

So move, Madam President.

Second.

Any questions?

Roll call.

Mr.

Angel.

Yes.

Mr.

Hall.

Yes.

Mr.

Hertz.

Yes.

Mr.

Pepper.

Yes.

Mr.

Scott?

Yes.

Mr.

Sweeney?

Yes.

Mrs.

Maston.

Yes.

Madam President, roll call reveal seven years.

Let the record show seven commissioners approve the agenda.

At this point in time, we open up the meeting to public comment on anything on the agenda that's not covered by a public hearing.

Does anyone here have any comments they would like to make?

Please come to the podium.

For our guests joining us online, if you would like to make public comments at this time, please indicate by raising your electronic hand or pressing start three if you are joining us by phone.

I see no hands raised online, Madam President.

Thank you.

Motion to accept the consent agenda 2607.

So moved.

Second.

Motion by Commissioner Pepper, second by Commissioner Hall.

Any questions?

Roll call.

Mr.

Angel.

Yes.

Mr.

Hall?

Yes.

Mr.

Hertz.

Yes.

Mr.

Pepper.

Yes.

Mr.

Scott?

Yes.

Mr.

Sweeney?

Yes.

Mrs.

Mathsden.

Yes.

Madam President, roll call, reveal seven years.

Let the record show seven years for the consent agenda twenty-six zero seven.

We have some presentations.

Mrs.

Horsey.

Good evening, Commissioners.

We're going to start with our employee of the month for May 2026, which is Valerie Rocha, and I am going to ask that the Register of Wills, Douglas Cox come up and read her memo in for the record.

That's right.

I appreciate it.

Good evening, Commissioners.

I come today, not asking for anything.

I come today to tell you what a great staff I have.

She joined the office.

I appointed her May of 2025.

So she's really new to the staff, but yet she has come in and she has turned the office into a place that the public, I think, feels welcome, a place that the public knows that when they come in, they can have someone that listens to them and helps them.

Valerie typically guides all new new estate openings, makes the meetings with everybody, the public to come in, and she explains to them the importance of how to file the paperwork and how to move forward with it.

So it is my honor tonight, not only to be here, but to to just share with the public the importance and uh how well Valerie works, just not in our office, but not for the county, but for the people of Kent County.

So, Valerie?

Madam President, are you the one that wants to read the resolution or do you want me to?

You can feel free to read it.

I'm sorry.

You respond to the question.

I'm sorry.

I think I read the wrong thing.

I apologize.

So moving forward, um this is Valerie, and uh I think we're ready to move forward with photos at this time.

Let me read the resolution in for the record, please.

Kent County Levy Court, May 2026, employee of the month, Valerie Rocha, on this, the 28th day of April 2026, the levy court of Kent County, State of Delaware does hereby recognize Valerie L.

Roche, Deputy Register of Wills, Kent County Register of Wills Office for her exceptional initiative, dedication, and conscientiousness in the delivery of services to the citizenry of the county.

Would you still like me to read the memo?

Or are you ready to move forward, Madam President?

I'm sorry, could you repeat your question?

Would you still like me to read the memo or are you ready to move forward?

I think you should read the memo.

Okay.

Kent County Department Heads have selected Valerie Rocha from the Register of Wills office as the May 2026 employee of the month.

Valerie currently serves as the Deputy Register of Wills and joined Kent County in May 2025.

Since her arrival, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, compassion, and professionalism.

She quickly became an invaluable member of the team, making an immediate and lasting impact.

Her extensive experience as a legal assistant with Ward and Taylor has provided her with a strong foundation in a state administration and legal processes, allowing her to navigate complex matters with confidence and efficiency.

In her role, Valerie is responsible for reviewing wills and petitions submitted to open estates for probate.

She often serves as a point of balance between personal representatives and family members or beneficiaries, ensuring that all parties are heard and that the pro that the process remains fair and respectful.

Valerie oversees each case from beginning to end, ensuring the accuracy of documents while clearly explaining the fiduciary responsibilities involved in the estate process.

Valerie approaches her work with a positive attitude and genuine care for the family she serves, particularly those who are navigating the loss of a loved one.

She takes the time to communicate patiently and respectfully, offering both clarity and reassurance during difficult moments.

Her commitment extends beyond regular hours as she frequently stays late to ensure all work is accurate and that each day begins seamlessly.

Her attention to detail and strong work ethic reflects both her pride in her work and her dedication to the residents of Kent County.

According to the register, Douglas Cox, Kent County is truly fortunate to have someone as caring, hardworking, and reliable as Valerie on the team.

She embodies the qualities that this recognition represents and serves as a role model for her peers.

Congratulations, Valerie on a job well done, and Valerie resides in Commissioners' Halls and Peppers districts.

Congratulations, Valerie.

It's always good to have an employee up here, especially this time of the month.

You certainly have proven to be an asset to the county, and we look for look forward to even more things coming from you.

And hopefully you're back here in December for the check.

You know, Valerie, it um every politician wants to make an appointment for something.

And what when you get those lists of people, and I'm sure the commissioners can attest to this, you look at them over and over and you meet people and you wonder who's going to fit in the best.

And I can say from the moment I met you, I knew that we were going to have a great relationship, and I knew you were the right person for the county.

And today I think just amplifies that feeling that I had, and I think everyone sees that you were and you are the right person for the job.

So thank you.

Valerie, I think it's uh it's absolutely great that you're standing up here, and I can tell you that you've definitely earned it.

I know who uh who you work under, so but uh you got a you've got a very good staff and BJ does a very good job for his employees in his office.

So I just commend you for for all your hard work and loyalty and dedication that you are providing to the residents of Kent County.

Thank you.

Valerie, congratulations.

Working in that department has got to be one of the toughest jobs here, and not because of DJ.

You you meet with people who are mostly facing the worst day of their lives.

And to be able to carry them through that and gain the respect not only of uh the register, but also your peers who nominated you for this is uh something to be proud of.

So congratulations.

Yeah, Valerie, what Jody said is very true.

Uh we certainly do appreciate you and your demeanor of being calm, cool, and collected at all times and being able to deal with trust trustful moments uh when people come in.

A lot of times the world has been turned upside down, and you're the one that has to help put it back together again.

So thank you very much.

Congratulations.

It's a tough job and a challenging job, and you're meeting people in some of the worst times of their lives.

So thank you for everything you do for our county.

Valerie, congratulations on behalf of all the employees here at Kent County, as you can see, a lot of them came out for you today.

Uh we've never seen this amount of employees at one of these meetings before, but uh for someone that's only been here eleven months to be recognized as employee of the month, that's shows the work ethics that you have, and congratulations.

Commissioners and DJ.

Uh thank you for the recognition.

I really appreciate it.

Thank you.

Commissioner Angel.

Well, thank you, Madam President.

Valerie, it uh takes a very special person to help people, especially when they're their needs are and they're they're deep in the loss of their loved ones, family or friends.

Thank you for that.

Like I said, it takes a special person to really make that work.

And it seems like you are doing a fantastic job.

Keep it up.

Thank you very much.

Commissioner Hertz.

Yeah, there's not too much to add, but congratulations on a job well done.

Thanks.

Make it official making your work.

Three to one.

Congratulations.

Anyone else?

No.

No, I don't think.

Yeah, but business week, there's nobody here to get it.

That's going to be part of the governor.

So back.

There's nobody here, it goes for the Congress.

That one won't be up there.

It will be back up for when Sam does his magic.

Public works, right?

We don't have anybody here.

Next item on the agenda is resolution 4156, Kent County Business Week, uh slated for May 3rd to the 9th, 2026.

We have a resolution, Kent County Levy Court, resolution 4156, Kent County Business Week, May 3rd to the 9th, 2026.

Whereas the success of a business invariably depends upon its representation in the community it serves, and the reputation is nearly always the result of a strong company leader, and whereas the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce engages in activities to assist the business community, and each year nominates business persons' companies as examples of the quality of the businesses in Central Delaware.

And whereas this year the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce has nominated the following individuals and companies as outstanding business persons, companies.

Need a resolution for approval.

Motion to approve resolution 4156.

Motion by Commissioner Pepper, second by Vice President Scott.

Any questions?

Roll call.

Yes.

Mr.

Hall?

Yes.

Mr.

Hertz.

Yes.

Mr.

Pepper.

Yes.

Mr.

Scott?

Yes.

Mr.

Sweeney?

Yes.

Mrs.

Maston.

Yes.

Madam President Roll Call revealed seventy-eighths.

The record shows seven years for the approval of resolution 4156.

Next presentation is resolution 4152, declaring May 17th to the 23rd, 2026.

That's public works week in Kent County.

And I believe Sam, you're handling this.

Good evening, Mayor, Vice Mayor, and President, Vice President and Commissioners.

Thank you very much for this recognition.

I am going to read resolution 50 uh 4152.

Kent County Levy Court declaring May 17th through the 23rd, 2026 as Public Works Week in Kent County, Delaware, rooted in service, powered by community.

Whereas public works professionals focus on infrastructure, facilities, and services that are of vital importance to sustainable and resilient communities and to public health, high quality of life and well-being of the people of King County, Delaware, and whereas these infrastructures, facilities, and services could not be provided without the dedicated efforts of public works professionals who are engineers, managers, and employees at all levels of government and the private sector who are responsible for rebuilding, improving, and protecting our nation's transportation, water supply, water treatment, and solid waste systems, public buildings and other structures and facilities essential for our citizens.

And whereas the Kent County Public Works Department ensures the public health and safety of its customers by providing efficient and effective wastewater collection and treatment and managing countywide garbage collection services and whereas it is in the public's interest for the citizens, civic leaders, and children in Kent County, Delaware to gain knowledge of and maintain an ongoing interest and understanding of the importance of public works and public works programs in the respective communities.

And whereas the year 2026 marks the 66th annual National Public Works Week sponsored by the American Public Works Association.

Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Kent County Levy Court does hereby proclaim May 17th through the 23rd, 2026 as Public Works Week in Kent County, urging all citizens to celebrate our public works department and to recognize the substantial contributions they make to protecting our health, safety, and advancing quality of all of life for all.

Be it further resolved that this resolution be and hereby is incorporated into the official minutes of the April 28th, 2026 meeting of the Kent County Levy Court.

We have a motion to accept resolution 4152.

Make a motion to accept resolution 4152.

We have a motion by Vice President Scott, second by Commissioner Angel.

Any questions?

Roll call.

Mr.

Angel.

Yes.

Mr.

Hall?

Yes.

Mr.

Hertz.

Yes.

Mr.

Pepper.

Yes.

Mr.

Scott.

Yes.

Mr.

Swing?

Yes.

Mrs.

Maston.

Yes.

Madam President Roll Call reveals seven years.

Let the record show seven years for resolution 4152.

Sam, you want to continue?

Yes.

Thank you, Madam President, Mr.

Vice President, and Commissioners for approving resolution 4152, proclaiming May 17th, 2017 through the 23rd, 2026 as public works week.

This year's theme is rooted in service powered by community and acknowledges the roots of service that runs deep in public works.

It recognizes all the hard work and passion our women and men continue to provide to the residents of Kent County.

Besides managing the street lights and solid waste contracts, public works oversees one of the most intricate systems in Kent County.

After you wash your hands, after you wash your dishes, or flesh the toilet, the wastewater generator travels through miles of pipe and pump stations to the wastewater treatment plant, where a complex weather dependent process begins to clean the water.

Let me give you a uh let me give you and the audience a snapshot of what happens at public works on a daily basis.

Wastewater operates uh wastewater operators monitor and adjust flows and ensure the equipment is working so that wastewater is pre properly treated.

Collection and transmission maintenance mechanics, fix man holes, broken sewer lines, and broken forest means, even in freezing temperatures.

Electricians ensure power is provided to pumps and blowers and the UV disinfection system to destroy bacteria and viruses during the final treatment of wastewater.

And they also ensure that the SCADA system is providing important data to management.

Biosolid operators manage treatment, handling, and disposal of sludge as fertilizer or soil soil amendments at approved farm sites while we wait for the completion of the new $54 million biosolids building.

Lab technicians sample and test the water quality to ensure the effluent meets all environmental regulations.

Procurement orders all needed equipment and material to keep the system running.

Pre-treatment ensures industrial users remove pollutants like fat soils and grease and inspect grease interceptors before they discharge into the county system.

Whether in heat, snow, or torrential storms, your public works team is a dedicated dedicated group of professionals willing and ensuring that vital infrastructure, public health, safety, and environmental protection are provided for his residents around the clock.

With me tonight are members of your public works team, and they're here to celebrate this proclamation.

I am honored to introduce them to you and the audience and people watching from home.

As I call their name, they will line up along with diet, and we'll eventually have a photo with you.

So once again, thank you for recognizing and acknowledging Public Works and Public Works Week.

So with that, I'm going to start the introductions.

So starting with the collections and transmission maintenance group, Jason Gary, Joshua White, Dave Melvin, Phil Parsons, Zachary Dorson, Mike Lynch, Bob Brooks, Mark Wombold, Patrick McPhail, Chris Wallace, in terms of our electrician group.

Dave Richter, John Oates, Tim Jones, Eric Warden, Keith Boris, Caleb Pritchard Warnic, Biosolids, Chris Horsey, Vincent Parsons Sr., Danny Coning, Operations, Tom Gates, Jonathan Cole from our laboratory, Amber Melvin.

From plant maintenance, we have Justin Hurley, Marshall Trippett, Corday Showell, Jesse Wallace from Procurement.

We have Christina Elliott, Julia Simpson, John Ocina, pre-treatment.

We have Jim Burke, inspection and utilities, JJ Johnson and Johnny Wernicke, Wastewater Facilities and Administration or Engineering Administration, Kristen Beechum, Austin Walls, Cynthia Ross, Superintendent Dave Whitney, and assistant director of public works, Colby Harrington.

And we do have four employees that did, or three employees that wanted to be here.

Kelly's been at the stamina 4%.

Rick Watkins?

Oh, Rick.

Yeah, Rick.

Come on up.

From the lab.

Rick?

Anyone else from Public Works?

Come on up.

Rick.

Okay.

Join the group.

And we do have three employees who wanted to be here, but they're on the shift.

But I wanted to read their names into the record.

Linda Lawrence, Cody Stevens, and Devin Dupree.

So with that, I welcome the commissioners to come up and take a picture with us.

Okay.

Everybody can work.

I'm impressed.

I really am.

He said you guys were getting bonuses.

Okay, so they handed me the mic first.

And I'll be the first to say that I've been with the county for 40 years.

I've never seen this amount of employees from one department in the levy court chambers.

But again, it's testament to what you guys do day in and day out to protect our community through the public works infrastructure.

I can't say enough about all that you guys do.

I did get an opportunity to participate the other day with the uh adopt the highway, and it was nice to see a lot of employees out there, the interaction.

It's it's rather obvious.

It seems like it's a f family atmosphere down there, and I applaud all of you for this recognition.

Enjoy your week uh for public public works week.

Yeah, uh very much appreciate everything that you do.

And um it's it's hard work.

I remember going down and touring the plant years ago, just completely impressed with everything that gets done down there and uh and the impact that has on everyone in the county.

And uh I just have to ask, there there are some people down there now, right?

Okay.

You know, a lot of people don't think about it much, but uh I do, and uh reason why Commissioner Banty used to say this all the time.

It said if you folks didn't do your jobs, and the county sewer didn't function, this county would come to a stop.

Literally come to a stop.

Because if you can't flush, you can't put water down the drain.

Um so many companies and so many households depend on that.

It would literally stop this county.

So I truly do appreciate everything you folks do.

Um I know it's hard work.

Uh it's uh a lot of you uh take calls and get up in the middle of the night and come out when it's cold and nasty, and um that's probably the only time you get called out when it's cold and nasty outside.

Or seemed like it anyhow, right?

But uh I appreciate everything you all do.

And you do a great job for the county, and um uh you know, we're extremely proud of the treatment facility we have, and um uh you know, just keep up the good work.

So I like I said, I don't know what you were threatened by or promised to get you all here, but like Kevin says, uh this first time I've seen this many employees here one time.

Um I'm I'm pr impressed.

As Commissioner Pepper said, it's overwhelming to see all of you here, and it's a testament, I think, to the leadership that's at the plant as well as here in in the county, and that all of you know just how much we as commissioners appreciate everything you do.

The only reason a commissioner looks great is because the employees come to work every day, they do their jobs, they want to serve the residents, and you do a great job.

I know as Commissioner Pepper said, if that sort of plant doesn't work, I can tell you seven commissioners' lives are going to be miserable, as well as Sam's and and a few other people.

So I don't know how you do what you do.

I just hope you continue to do it, and if there's ever anything we can do to help, my goodness, don't hesitate to ask.

But again, hats off to every one of you that are here today.

It is so much appreciated.

So I think everybody's already said everything, so we'll keep it short.

It's it's pretty amazing to see how many of you showed up tonight.

It's it's absolutely amazing.

The problem is a lot of people in the county don't realize what you guys do.

And I think that's that's even more of a problem sometimes.

Um I got a call about a week ago, and I just knew when he said, Well, this is about your public works department.

I said, Okay.

So I'm thinking, where is he going with this?

It wasn't.

It was just over trash that he thought was going to be picked up by noon and it was 10 of and they weren't there yet.

So we were good.

We were good.

But you know, that it's one of the uh one of the unique things if you look around, you don't hardly hear any complaints about public works.

You just don't you don't have them.

And that's a testament that you guys are doing exactly what you're supposed to be doing.

And as far as I'm concerned, I appreciate it a great deal, as every other commissioner here.

Commissioner Maston and Pepper both hit it right on the head.

You make us look good.

And that's something that you know you guys need to remember that.

We're here to support you and help you all that we can to get what you need to do the job right and to be comfortable with doing it.

So don't ever hesitate to reach out to the county administrator or to your public works director.

Um let him bring it to us.

So that's that's part of what he's here for.

And I think uh I think morale's picked up, and I think you guys are doing a great job.

So thank you for everything that you do.

Yeah, I'm not even gonna be that long.

Look.

Really a short joke.

So I was impressed with all the laughter that was going on out there in the audience while you guys were getting set up.

That tells me that you guys work as a family.

You get along with each other, and pun intended, all the shit you have to put up with.

So congratulations on this recognition, and we appreciate everything you do for not only the county commissioners, but also every person that uses our systems in the county.

I think so.

Commissioner Angel.

Yes, from my perspective, sitting here looking out on the screen.

It's amazing to see all of you there on that by that dias.

It's fantastic to see you there.

And uh comments by Commissioner Pepper and and Commissioner Masson.

Um about uh the past.

I can remember 21 years ago.

Sitting up on the diaspora on Federal Street before we moved to that building.

A lady coming forward says, Look, when I flush, I don't want to see it again.

And uh that would that said a lot back then because we had some issues, not with just with that with but with odors too.

And you guys have come a long way in making this look great from everything you're doing.

Keep up the great work.

Thank you.

Commissioner Hertz.

Yeah, I got a chance to go down to the plant Friday and take a tour with Dave Whitney and got to spend a lot of one on one time with play a few employees, and uh I gotta say that not only do you guys do a great job, but I see uh a big difference in the attitude down there, and uh it's very positive and uh I'd love to see a big things coming in the near future with all the projects that we're gonna have to be having to go at all.

Good job, guys.

Thank you, Commissioner Hertz.

Would any of you employees here like to speak?

You all give a chance, everybody.

Colby, would you like to speak?

Just real quick.

That's okay.

I just want to say thank you.

Uh this is uh one of the best groups that I've ever worked with.

I know a lot of times it's a thankless job, and I don't get the FaceTime every day with everybody, but you guys do an awesome job and uh I appreciate everything that you do.

Absolutely nothing.

Sam's a good leader.

He he put this all together and we appreciate the recognition and and uh appreciate Levy Court recognizing everybody.

So thank you.

Anyone else like to speak?

Don't be shy.

Thank you again.

We appreciate your participation here and more so we appreciate your efforts at the plant.

Have a great one and thank you for coming.

All right, we need y'all to suit in.

Well, one one other thing, one other thing.

Uh since the uh plant is in Commissioner Scott's area.

Um feel free to call him anytime you get called out in the middle of the night.

Um and let him know.

He's that type of person, he's concerned.

He he does like to know those kind of things.

And um he can let me know the next day.

Okay.

I agree, and I think everything's done in pairs, Commissioner.

Kelly, are you all done with us?

Oh, I had to take a 50 minutes.

Mr.

Ricknot, the church.

And come on, you come over.

There we go.

Thank you.

Could I get Marshall, could you move over a little bit from the people and then let's get some easy and Amber and Jesse and y'all?

Okay.

Okay.

Thank you all.

Thank you, sorry.

I never remember.

I don't work that way.

Oh my business one of our prove it.

We didn't approve it.

He's talked to me and Terry.

I think that's something to you.

The county has a policy.

Yeah, it's been combined for some of them maybe.

I think you could be off a weekend and come back.

Yeah, so I'm in the cell.

There's only three of them.

Oh, yes.

Well, it's everything you do, it's appreciated.

I got a short.

Oh.

Okay.

Thank you for coming.

Thank you for coming.

Ms.

Orsey, I believe you have some introductions.

Yes, we do.

Thank you, Madam President.

Okay.

So we have two employees present for uh that were hired in March to be presented for um introductions to the levy court.

I am going to start with Miss Michelle Wynne Fagan, if you would join me at the podium, please.

She joined Kent County on March 9th, 2026.

She brings valuable experience from her previous role as a senior librarian with the Delaware Health and Social Services Office.

And prior to that, she worked at Newcastle County Public Libraries in the Bear Library as a library specialist.

And Michelle resides in Newcastle County.

Would you like to say anything to the commissioners?

Hello, Madam President, Vice President, uh Commissioners of Kent County, uh everyone here present.

Uh thank you so much for uh having me here as uh part of your beautiful community, and I look forward to uh all the coming months and years to spend uh with the library and extending our services and accessibility.

And if uh you don't have a library card, I'm happy to help sign you up.

Any commissioners have any comments Michelle uh welcome aboard.

Uh when you get tired of that commute from Newcastle County down to here, you can feel welcome to move into Kent County anytime you want to.

Thank you.

Welcome aboard, Michelle.

Look forward to many years here at the county with you.

Thank you.

Any other commissioners want to comment?

Thank you so much.

Thank you.

Next, I would like to introduce Mr.

Jake Eddy.

If you'll join me at the podium, please sir.

Mr.

Eddy was hired in the information technology office as a computer support technician, one.

Uh he joined us on March 30th.

He brings value valuable experience from his previous role as a BOH manager with Chick-fil-A, and prior to that he worked at Bay Health as a desktop support technician.

Jake resides in Commissioner Sweeney and Pepper's districts.

Would you like to say anything at this time, Jake?

Thank you for having me.

Thank you, Commissioners.

And I'm looking forward to spending many years here and starting my career.

Mr.

Pepper.

Welcome aboard.

And can I hear you say one more time?

It's my pleasure.

It is my pleasure to be here.

And you're welcome.

We're glad to have you with your long career here.

Thank you.

Yeah, welcome to the Kent County Levy Court.

We're happy to have you on board.

Thank you.

I apologize.

I have one more.

So Miss Kristen Beechum, would you join me?

Miss Beeachamp joined the county on March 23rd of 2026 as our utility service services specialist.

She brings valuable experience from her previous role as a patient scheduling coordinator with the deceased home health medicine home health.

Thank you so much.

Prior to that, she worked at Green Dermatology as a medical assistant in Kristen Resides in Commissioner Scott's and Peppers District.

Kristen.

Would you like to speak there?

I just want to thank you guys for the opportunity to work in such a great place.

I have friends that have worked here for a few years, so I'm looking forward to having my career here as well.

Thank you.

Kristen, welcome aboard.

You uh you hit the trifecta.

You not only get to work for the best county, but you also live in the best district in Kent County.

And you have some of the best people around you.

So hit a trifecta, but thank you for for joining us and welcome aboard and hopefully a lot of longevity there.

Thank you.

You also live in my district.

I'm part of that trifecta.

Move just a little north, you can be in my district.

Commissioner Angel, did you want to comment?

Just welcome to the family.

Glad to have you.

Thank you.

Commissioner Hertz.

Yeah, welcome to uh the county.

Good luck.

Thank you.

That's reassuring.

Thank you.

Thank you.

This point we're going to start our public hearing.

Commissioner Hertz.

Yeah, I'd like to introduce resolution 4149, Satterfield Stormwater Maintenance District.

Turn it over to uh Sarah.

Good evening, Commissioners.

First, just a word about how the hearings tonight will be conducted.

This public hearing is being conducted for the purpose of giving the citizens of the county the opportunity to present testimony on the applications before the levy court.

Everyone will have a chance to speak.

All statements are to be made from the podium at the front of the room.

For the record, please give your name and address.

Copies of any written statements or exhibits used during the hearing should be presented for identification and inclusion in the record.

For each application before the levy court, the president will introduce the application.

The levy court will then receive testimony from all of those in favor.

Testimony will then be received from those who may be opposed.

After everyone has had an opportunity to speak, the hearing on the application will be closed, and the levy court will take what action it deems appropriate.

Levy Court's decision will be based upon public hearing testimony given at this meeting and a recommendation submitted to the levy court by the Regional Planning Commission.

I would ask that that recommendation be included by reference in the permanent record of the meeting established by the clerk of the peace.

The public notice of this hearing was published in the April 8th, 2026 edition of the Delaware State News.

Resolution 4149 is the creation or the addition of Satterfield into the county stormwater maintenance district.

A majority of the lot owners have signed a petition in the affirmative.

Those signatures were verified by our staff.

All necessary repairs have been completed.

The operation and maintenance plan has been finalized.

Given the effective date of this resolution is April 28th.

Billing would actually commence with the next tax billing in August of this year.

Seeing as it meets all of the requirements for joining the district, staff recommends approval.

I'm happy to answer any questions.

Commissioners have questions for Ms.

Kiefer.

Commissioner Angel, any questions for Ms.

Kiefer?

I'm fine, thank you.

Commissioner Hertz.

No, I'm good.

Thank you.

At this point, uh, is there anyone here in the audience who would like to speak in favor of resolution 4149, Satterfield, please come forward?

For our guests join, if you would like to speak in favor of resolution 4149, please indicate by raising electronic hand or pressing star three if you're joining us by phone.

I see no hands raised online at this time, Madam President.

Is there anyone here who would like to speak in opposition to resolution 4149?

Satterfield, please step forward.

Similarly, if you are online and would like to speak in opposition to resolution 4149, please indicate by raising electronic hand.

Still no hands raised online, Madam President.

Thank you.

Uh back to you, Commissioner Hertz, for a motion.

Okay, I make a motion finding that the proposed stormwater maintenance district expansion is adequate and appropriate, that all the property owners within the district are benefited directly or indirectly thereby, and that it is in the public interest to extend the stormwater maintenance district in the matter proposed.

I move to approve resolution 4149 creating the Satterfield Stormwater Maintenance District.

Second motion.

Okay, we have a motion by Commissioner Hertz and second by Commissioner Angel.

Any questions?

Mr.

Angel.

Yes.

Mr.

Hall.

Yes.

Mr.

Hertz.

Yes.

Mr.

Pepper.

Yes, this is a great program.

And it will save the residents a lot of money over time.

Mr.

Scott?

Yes.

Mr.

Sweeney?

Yes.

Mrs.

Maston.

Yes.

Madam President, roll call reveals seven years.

Let the record show seven years for the resolution 4149.

Satterfield.

Next item on the public hearing is the C2602.

Delmarva Power Light.

Commissioner Hertz.

Yeah, I'll turn it over to Sarah.

Thank you, Commissioner.

Application C2602 is a conditional use application for Delmarva Power and Light.

There is an existing electrical substation that should be noted.

That certainly predates zoning by a number of decades.

So the use would be considered legal nonconforming.

It requires a conditional use at this point because the proposal is to demolish an existing control building and replace it with a larger one.

But it should be noted the site area is not changing substantially.

The Regional Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend conditional approval, finding that the application indeed complies with all of the relevant conditions in the county's code.

So again, this comes with a recommendation for approval.

I am happy to answer any questions you may have.

Anyone have questions for Ms.

Kiefer?

Commissioner Angel.

I'm fine, thank you.

Commissioner Hertz?

I'm good.

Thank you.

At this point, we open up the uh hearing for anyone here who would like to speak in favor of C 2602 Delmarva Power Light, please step forward, state your name and be sworn or affirmed.

Good evening, uh President Maston and Commissioners.

My name is McKenzie Sindelar.

I'm an attorney at the law firm of Sol Uing.

I just wanted to confirm I'm here on behalf of Delmarva Power and Light.

If there's any questions that we can answer, our team is available.

We'd ask, of course, for your approval for the conditional use and again are available for any questions.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Anyone here?

Anyone here who would like to speak in favor of C 2602 Delmar Power Light, please come forward.

If you are joining us online and we would like to speak in favor of application C2602, please indicate by raising electronic hand or pressing star three if you joining us by phone.

I see no hands raised online, Madam President.

Is there anyone here who would like to speak in opposition to C 2602 Delmarva Power Light?

Please come forward.

Similarly, if you're online and would like to speak in opposition to C 2602, please indicate by raising electronic hand or pressing star three if you're joining us by phone.

Still no hands raised online, Madam President.

Thank you.

Back to you, Mr.

Hertz.

Our Commissioner Hertz for a motion.

Okay.

I make a motion.

I move that Levy Court grant conditional approval of application C 26-02, a conditional use for the electric substation located inside the Gross Zone Overlay District.

This is based on exhibit A.

Staff recommendation report dated April 2nd, 2026, and exit B.

Correction, exhibit B, public hearing testimony dated April 2nd, 2026.

This is based on exhibit A, staff recommendation report dated April 2nd, 2026, and exit B, correction, exhibit B, public hearing testimony dated April 2nd, 2026, testimony at tonight's meeting, and the findings of the fact that A, the parcel of zone IG, General Industrial, in which code 205-5-3 permits an electric substation as a conditional use.

B the applicant shall comply with all staff and agency recommendations as described in the staff recommendation report, and C, the application complies with all conditions for that use.

We have a motion.

Do we have a second?

Second.

Motion by Commissioner Hertz, second by Vice President Scott.

Any questions?

Roll call?

Yes.

Mr.

Angel.

Yes, uh, based on Commissioner Hertz's uh description, no opposition, RPC uh approval and staff recommendation, yes.

Mr.

Hall?

Yes, based on staff and RPC recommendations.

Mr.

Hertz.

Yes, based on my record or my motion.

Mr.

Pepper.

Yes.

Uh for all regions previously stated.

Mr.

Scott?

Yes, based on staff and RPC recommendations.

Mr.

Sweeney?

Yes, all reasons stated.

Mrs.

Maston?

Yes.

Reason stated.

Madam President, roll call reveal seven years.

Let the record show seven years for C2602 until more of a power and light.

At this point, we'll close our public hearings for this evening.

We have any old business.

New business?

Commissioner Angel?

Thank you, Madam President.

Treaty?

Thank you, Commissioner Angel.

Good evening again, Commissioners.

So in your packets, you'll see the memorandum that discusses the FY27 health insurance premiums and the cost share.

We are also asking to use about $200,000 of our uh stabilization funds that we've earned over the years to help offset some of the cost of the health insurance for the upcoming plan year.

Are there any questions at the time about the rates or anything I can answer for you at the moment?

Any questions for Ms.

Worsey?

Mr.

Angel, any questions?

No.

Mr.

Hertz?

No.

Okay.

Okay.

Commissioner Angel, back to you for a motion.

Thank you, Madam President.

I move to authorize the renewal with the Delaware Valley Health Trust Aetna of the Excisting Health Insurance Plan, designs for eligible employees and retirees, including the integrated health reimbursement arrangement, HRA, to approve the use of the reserves out of 200,000.

And to adopt the Phantom 2000 2026, 2027 plan year.

We have a motion by Commissioner Angel.

Do we have a second?

Second.

Second by Commissioner Hall.

Any questions?

Roll call.

Mr.

Angel.

Yes.

Mr.

Hall?

Yes.

Mr.

Hertz.

Yes.

Mr.

Pepper?

Yes.

Mr.

Scott.

Yes.

Mr.

Sweeney?

Yes.

Mrs.

Maston?

Yes.

Madam President, roll call, reveal seven years.

Let the record show seven years for the FY27 employee retiree health insurance plan.

Commissioner Hertz.

Yeah, I'd like to turn it over to Sam Batista.

Thank you, Commissioner Hertz.

Madam President, Vice President, Commissioners.

The item before you is uh diffuser replacement project and full source purchase.

So the Kent County wastewater treatment facility operates a Biolak system manufactured by Parks Incorporation.

Each of the two aeration basins contains 26 aeration chains.

Each chain supports 18 diffusers for a total of 936 diffusers across the system.

The diffusers were replaced in 2018 and the North Aeration Basin, those diffuses were replaced in 2021.

Diffuser assemblies typically follow a replacement cycle of five to seven years, and the current diffusers are nearing the end of their life.

This project has been identified in the recent implementation plan submitted to Denric.

The Department of Public Works has evaluated alternative manifactors for diffuser replacements.

However, no suitable options have been identified that can provide the required performance guarantees.

Given that the current system is specifically designed around the Parks and Biolac system, Parkson Corporation remains the only viable supplier at this time.

Therefore, it is a sole source purchase.

Public works is starting the biological process capacity upgrade project by evaluating and analyzing the efficiency and effectiveness of the ration basins and its hydraulics.

Staff anticipates improvements to the biological treatment system within the next five to six years.

The replacement of these diffusers ensures continued permit compliance and operational reliability while the biological process capacity upgrade project is being planned, designed, and constructed within the seven-year lifespan of the new diffusers.

The portion of the project includes the sole source procurement of the 936 diffuser assembly components and freight from Parkinson and amount of 734,450.

Public courts will also procure hoses and clamps from various vendors, and that is estimated to cost $65,550.

The equipment and material purchases will be funded through retained earnings in an estimated amount of approximately $800,000.

Public works will return to Levy Court to award a contract for installation services, which is estimated at around $200,000.

And we would need to also dispose of the existing diffusers, which is which will cost approximately $60,000.

Installation disposal will be funded through the public works contingency line item.

And with that I can answer any of your questions.

Any questions for Sam?

Commissioner Angel.

Commissioner Hertz.

No, I'm good.

Thank you, Sam.

Back to you, Commissioner Hertz.

Okay.

I moved to allocate $800,000 from retained earnings for the purchase of replacement diffusers, equipment, and other materials and the diffuser replacement project.

Move to award the sole source purchase of Biolac diffuser assemblies to Parkinson Corporation and amount of 734,0450, and move to authorized insurance purchases ordered to Parkinson Corporation for purchase of diffuser assemblies.

We have a motion by Commissioner Hertz, second by Vice President Scott.

Any questions?

Roll call.

Mr.

Angel.

Yes.

Mr.

Hall?

Yes.

Mr.

Hertz?

Yes.

Mr.

Pepper?

Yes.

Mr.

Scott?

Yes.

Mr.

Sweeney?

Yes.

Mrs.

Maston?

Yes.

Madam President, roll call reveal seven years.

Let the record show seven years for the diffuser replacement project and sole source purchase.

Thank you.

We have no executive session tonight.

Do we have any information items?

Commissioner Aingles, do you have any information items?

Thank you.

Yes.

Just uh follow up on that to let everybody know that uh myself, uh Commissioner Sweeney and County Administrator, uh Kevin Simple, we met with uh a delegation from Washington, Lisa Senators Lisa Rochester and Senator Coons on Monday, yesterday, and we had a combined meeting with our DAC for all three counties, and we had a very healthy discussion and data centers, housing, uh, rent, energy, which would include uh uh nuclear and grasse seam, telecommunications uh reauthorization, especially for AI, ARPA funding, which will never happen again, we are being told, and a lot of other topics, but those were the main ones.

Uh, just to let everybody know, we had a very healthy meeting.

Anyone else have any information items?

We open it up for public comment.

Anyone like to make a comment?

Any commissioner comments?

Vice President Scott?

Just uh more or less to let you guys know there's a lot of uh a lot of events going on throughout the county this time of the year, and a lot of uh a lot of places are trying to naturally they're trying to be somewhat self-sustain with these programs and what that they're running.

So if you get a chance, maybe try to stop and support them when you can.

Having nothing else, I'll entertain a motion to adjourn.

So moved to second.

All in favor?

Second.

Thank you all.

Aye, I'm not sure.