Public Meetings - Milford, Delaware

The Milford City Council met on October 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM to address a full agenda that included public comments, multiple public hearings, and decisions on development projects, a fee waiver for the fire-damaged Lulu Ross Elementary School, and sidewalk waivers. The meeting lasted approximately 2.5 hours. Key actions included approval of the Cyprus Hall Phase 4 subdivision (6-0), unanimous fee waivers for Ross Elementary, and conditional use approvals for a downtown restroom and a Baltimore Air Coil pavilion. Public comments raised concerns about litter, dog waste, school capacity, and pedestrian safety near 10th Street. Public Comments & Testimony - Eric Johnson (703 N Walnut Street) requested more trash bins and anti-littering signs, noting that city employees mow over trash instead of picking it up. - Tom Chilton (38 Metal Art Drive) urged the council to adopt a pooper scooper law for dog waste, citing the lack of HOA restrictions in his community. He also expressed concern about three empty council seats. - Jennifer Snelly Miller (715 New Street), former state transportation planner, asked the council to pause certificates of occupancy for new housing to allow the school district time to recover from the Ross Elementary fire, citing her experience with a condemned facility in Dover. - During the public hearings, additional comments were made: - Eric Johnson and Tracy Jones (18575 Eleanor Lane) opposed the Cyprus Hall subdivision, citing school capacity and traffic congestion. - Tracy Titian (Cypress Hall resident) reported electricity and internet outages from ongoing development. - Julie Morris (21142 Cedar Beach Road) questioned the validity of expired deviations for Cyprus Hall and accused the applicant of threatening council with liability. - Julie Morris also opposed the downtown restroom, raising concerns about sewer backups into the wellhead protection area. - Jennifer Snelly Miller and Julie Morris opposed the 10th Street sidewalk waiver, emphasizing the danger to students walking to the academy and high school. Discussion Items and Key Outcomes 1. Cyprus Hall Phase 4 Preliminary Subdivision (Reconsideration) - The applicant’s attorney (John Pardee) argued that the plan meets all code requirements and that council lacked discretion to deny. Public opposition cited school capacity and infrastructure strain. - Vote: 6-0 to approve. Council members stated that the plan complies with the approved PUD and city codes, and that denial would be unsupported by law. 2. Lulu Ross Elementary School Fire – Fee Waiver - Superintendent Travis Morman requested a city engineer inspection to formally condemn the building and a waiver of all city fees for demolition, repairs, and temporary structures. He noted 600+ students and 100 staff displaced. - Vote: Unanimous approval to waive all permit, impact, and related fees. 3. Downtown Restroom Conditional Use - A proposed public restroom near the pickleball courts within a wellhead protection area. City engineer found minimal risk. Planning commission recommended 8-0. - Vote: 6-0 to approve. 4. Chapter 200 Subdivision Amendment - Amended to allow appeals of the planning director’s expiration decisions to the planning commission and council, and to require recording of an affidavit of expiration. Planning commission recommended 8-0. - Vote: 6-0 to approve. 5. Baltimore Air Coil Conditional Use - A small pavilion (under 1,000 sq ft) within a wellhead protection area; no water or sewer connections. Planning commission recommended 8-0. - Vote: 6-0 to approve. 6. Sidewalk Waivers - Resolution 2026-19 (Sullivan Place): Temporary waiver for curb and sidewalk on an undeveloped portion of the lot, to be installed when the rear portion is developed. Vote: 6-0. - Resolution 2026-20 (10th Street): After public opposition and a planning commission tie (4-4 on curbing, 7-1 on sidewalk), council debated safety concerns. A motion to require curbing now and grant a temporary sidewalk waiver with a two-year time limit passed 6-0 (amended from an earlier 5-1 vote). 7. Final Acceptance of Milford Pond Streets - Accepted phases 1-9 and 10A (82 lots, 0.80 miles of roadway) and released the performance bond. Vote: 6-0. 8. KCI Capital Improvement Plan Proposal - Authorized $90,200 for the 2026 pavement rehabilitation project covering nine roads. Vote: 6-0. Other Business - Proclamation: November 1, 2026, proclaimed Extra Mile Day. - Recognition: City manager thanked water/sewer staff for addressing a resident’s concern; new Deputy City Clerk Crystal Wheeler introduced. - Town Hall Report: Fourth ward town hall held on October 13; topics included homelessness, ALPRs, red light cameras, water quality. Next town hall: February 10, 2027, at Benjamin Banneker Elementary School. - Parade: Council commended police and volunteers for the successful Halloween parade. - 100th Birthday: Reba Hollandsworth recognized. - Buccaneer Educational Foundation sponsorship: Tabled to allow council to consider increasing support.

The Finance and Audit Committee of the City of Milford met on October 26, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Three of four committee members were present, establishing a quorum. The sole agenda item was the quarterly investment review for the quarter ended September 30, 2026, presented by Jeff Facino of PFM Asset Management (PFMAM), the city's longstanding investment advisor, and introduced by Finance Director Lou Vitola. The committee received the report, discussed market conditions, portfolio performance, and credit quality, and adjourned without taking any formal votes. Public Comments & Testimony - The 15-minute public comment period was opened and closed with no speakers; no one was present in the audience, and no one came forward online via the raise-hand feature. Discussion Items Quarterly Investment Review (Quarter Ended September 30, 2026) — Presented by Jeff Facino, PFM Asset Management - Market conditions: Mr. Facino described U.S. growth as resilient, supported by AI-related and consumer spending, but noted that inflation accelerated during the quarter. He cited the conflict involving Iran as a driver of elevated energy prices (oil above $115 per barrel) and supply-chain disruptions, including sharply reduced ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. - Federal Reserve policy: The Fed raised rates by 25 basis points during the quarter, bringing the federal funds rate to 3.75%–4.00%. PFM expects rates to hold steady in October (with no typical pre-election move) and anticipates one additional hike at the December 2026 meeting; the market is pricing in one more hike this year and possibly one in 2027. Mr. Facino cited the enactment of an independent Fed as a positive, noting the new Fed chairman made an independent decision to raise rates despite presidential opposition. - Economic indicators: The labor market was described as steady and resilient; GDP through the second quarter was 2.2%, and private domestic final purchases (PDFP) indicated strong underlying demand. Negative factors in PFM's outlook include persistent inflation, geopolitical uncertainty, and supply-chain disruptions; positive factors include resilient domestic demand, a low-unemployment labor market, and strong corporate fundamentals. - Treasury yields: The two-year Treasury yield rose sharply from 4.14% in June to 4.89% on September 30, easing to 4.68% by the end of October. Mr. Facino noted yields are now above their 10-year and 20-year averages. - Sector performance: Asset-backed securities (ABS) was the only sector with a positive return during the third quarter; triple-A corporates were the worst-performing sector. - Portfolio summary (as of September 30, 2026): - Total portfolio just under $31 million: approximately $30.667 million in securities, $195,000 in accrued interest, and $95,000 in cash. - Portfolio duration of 2.07 years, slightly longer than the benchmark. - Yield at cost of 4.42%. - Average credit quality of double-A, with approximately 4% of investments rated triple-A and the lower end of the range at triple-B plus. - Returns: -0.52% for the three-month period; +1.75% over one year; and 4.06% annualized since inception. - Finance Director comments: Lou Vitola noted this was the first negative quarter in the entire relationship with PFM and that significant withdrawals during the quarter — to help fund the corporate center project — may have influenced results, though he had not taken a deep dive into the specific effect. He added that the city's investment policy statement constrains PFM to investment-grade securities, with protocols to restore compliance if a holding is downgraded after purchase, and that PFM's traders have the city's policy parameters loaded into their trading systems. Committee Discussion & Questions - A council member asked which industries support the economy's resiliency. Mr. Facino cited AI, technology, and financials, noting that corporations are currently profitable (unlike during the dot-com bubble) and that the long-term effects of AI spending on labor and production remain uncertain. The council member observed that the same megacap tech companies driving the stock market are also driving the economy, and questioned whether that is cause for celebration or caution. He also expressed concern that AI is ultimately designed to increase efficiency by eliminating large portions of the workforce; Mr. Facino noted some companies have reversed large AI-driven workforce reductions after finding they needed more people than expected. A council member cited figures such as roughly $6 million in revenue per employee for Anthropic, which was described as filing for an IPO. - In response to a question about whether consumers are actually spending, Mr. Facino confirmed consumer spending remains positive (citing the PDFP data), but noted consumer debt is also still rising. - A council member asked whether PFM factors political and electoral outcomes into its analysis, referencing the upcoming November 3 midterm election. Mr. Facino said PFM's fixed-income research team monitors macroeconomic, sector, and individual-holding data daily, including geopolitical factors, and is both current- and forward-looking. - A council member asked for clarification on the portfolio's credit quality. Mr. Facino explained the double-A figure is the average credit quality of the portfolio, with roughly 4% of investments in triple-A and the remainder ranging down to triple-B plus; each individual holding's rating is disclosed. Councilman James emphasized that this information is public, posted on the city's website, and included in meeting packages, and that all investments must comply with the city's investment policy statement. - Councilman James expressed appreciation for the committee's active investment oversight during volatile markets and stressed the importance of transparency so that residents — as owners of the funds — can find answers to their questions in the public record. He also noted that yields reflect risk and that past performance does not guarantee future returns. Key Outcomes - The committee received the quarterly investment review report from PFM Asset Management; no motions, resolutions, or formal votes were taken. - No new business was introduced, and the meeting was adjourned following the presentation and discussion. Note on Transcript Discrepancies - The chair introduces the finance director as "Mr. Botala," but the speaker self-identifies as Lou Vitola, Finance Director; this summary uses the self-identified name. - The PFM presenter's name appears in the transcript as both "Jeff Facino" and "Jeff Asino"; this summary uses "Jeff Facino," as stated in his introduction. - The transcript describes "Tormoon straight ship traffic," which in context (the Iran conflict, the oil price spike, and supply-chain disruptions) is interpreted as ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Milford Planning Commission convened on October 20, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The agenda included three public hearings, a preliminary site plan with multiple waiver requests, and a workshop on the 2028 Comprehensive Plan update. No members of the public provided comment during the public comment period or the hearings. Commissioners Longo and Regan were welcomed as new appointments, and Commissioner Deakin Stanza as a reappointed member. Eight commissioners were present; Commissioner Purcell was absent. Public Hearings The commission heard three applications, acting as a fact-finding body to make recommendations to City Council. All hearings had no speakers in favor, opposition, or general comment. Ordinance 2026-15: Downtown Restroom (Conditional Use) - The City of Milford, through Parks and Recreation Director Brad Danahy, applied to construct a public restroom in a wellhead protection zone one area (C2A Riverfront Development District). City staff engineer determined the proposal posed minimal risk to the well. The commission voted 8-0 to recommend approval. Ordinance 2026-16: Subdivision Expiration Appeal Process (Code Amendment) - Planning Director Rob Pierce presented a text amendment to Chapter 200-7 to add a formal appeal process to the Planning Commission and City Council for developers appealing staff decisions on subdivision expirations, strengthening due process. The commission voted 8-0 to recommend approval. Ordinance 2026-17: Baltimore Air Coil Pavilion (Conditional Use) - To provide employee amenities, Baltimore Air Coil Company sought a conditional use for an 828-square-foot pavilion in a wellhead protection zone one area (I-2 General Industrial District). City staff found it posed minimal risk to the well. The commission voted 8-0 to recommend approval. New Business Preliminary Site Plan: Salivan 10th Street Development (PSP 256-2026) - Applicant David Miller proposed a three-unit commercial food establishment with a drive-through at the corner of NW 10th Street and Salivan Place in the C3 district. The applicant, owning adjacent undeveloped property, requested the continuation of two temporary waivers along NW 10th Street and new temporary waivers along Salivan Place, citing the need for DelDOT coordination on the intersection. - Waiver Votes: - Curbing Waiver (NW 10th St): Motion to recommend continuance failed (4-4). - Sidewalk Waiver (NW 10th St): Motion to recommend continuance passed (7-1). - Curbing Waiver (Salivan Pl): Motion to recommend temporary waiver passed (8-0). - Sidewalk Waiver (Salivan Pl): Motion to recommend temporary waiver passed (8-0). - Site Plan: The commission voted 8-0 to recommend approval of the preliminary site plan. Workshop: Comprehensive Plan Update The workshop focused on housing and regulatory reforms. Smart Growth America (SJR8 Program) - Analysts Kathy Carter and Sam Gordon reviewed Milford's demographics, noting 49% of residents are renters (vs. 27% statewide) and 52% of renters are cost-burdened. They presented preliminary recommendations for zoning reforms including allowing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by right, expanding 'missing middle' housing, and reducing minimum lot sizes and parking requirements. - Commission members discussed the financial barriers of impact fees for ADUs, the utility of owner-occupancy requirements, and the difficulty of reducing parking minimums in a largely car-dependent region. Draft Housing Chapter (University of Delaware) - Consultant BJ DeCoursey presented data showing the growing gap between incomes and rents. He reviewed Milford's obligations under Senate Bill 23 for a housing affordability plan. The commission discussed selecting five optional elements from the state's menu, favoring practical, near-term actions like fee waivers over complex measures like inclusionary zoning. Key Outcomes - Public Hearings: Three applications recommended for approval (8-0 each). - New Business (Salivan) continued: The curbing waiver for NW 10th Street was not recommended, while the sidewalk waiver was recommended (7-1). Curbing and sidewalk waivers for Salivan Place were recommended (8-0). The overall site plan was recommended for approval (8-0). - Comprehensive Plan: Staff will continue drafting chapters incorporating commission feedback, focusing on economic development and transportation next. Smart Growth America will present their findings to City Council.

The Milford City Council convened on October 12, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included the swearing-in of a new council member, public comments, departmental reports, and approvals for a shared-use path agreement, Halloween dates, and construction change orders. Consent Calendar - The council approved the agenda as amended (removing the executive session) and the previous meeting minutes. - Monthly staff reports from the Police Chief, City Clerk, and City Manager and his direct reports were accepted by unanimous consent. Public Comments & Testimony - Kathy Stetson (311 South Walnut Street): Requested the council place an item on a future agenda to discuss Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs/Flock cameras). She noted she emailed the mayor and council on October 1st without receiving an acknowledgment. - One Eita Mitaro (4502 E Summer, Brookway): Expressed concern about slow maintenance response times at Hearthstone Manor following a change in the HOA management company from Cscape to Premier. Discussion Items - Oath of Office: Judge Noel Easton Primos administered the oath of office to Joan King, the certified winner of the uncontested Ward 3 special election, for a two-year term. - Staff Reports Highlights: - Police reported 1,249 calls for service in September; the new evidence building is nearing completion. - Planning & Zoning reported 185 new dwelling permits issued year-to-date (72 apartments, 24 condos, 10 townhouses, 10 duplexes, 71 single-family homes) and a sharp rise in grass violations (452 open vs 235 in Sept 2025). - Public Works noted 400 utility locates in September and provided updates on the Wilbur Street storm drainage project stalled by gas line relocation. - Parks & Rec detailed progress on the Riverwalk fishing platform, the downtown restroom project (ordinance introduced), and soil borings for the Rehoboth Boulevard parkland. - Human Resources reported zero retirements in 2026. A concern was raised that some employees were not invited to service awards; the City Manager stated all employees were invited per department records. - Economic Development noted two Milford census tracts nominated for federal Opportunity Zone status and identified three vacant downtown storefronts. - Finance reported collecting $4.2 million in taxes. - Council Communications: Councilmember Medura clarified the city has no authority over HOA operations. Councilmember Jason raised concerns about abandoned shopping carts and noted the Public Safety Committee meeting on ALPRs did not meet quorum and is postponed. - Ordinance Introductions: Three ordinances were formally introduced: 2026-15 (Downtown Restroom conditional use), 2026-16 (Subdivision expiration amendment), and 2026-17 (Baltimore Air Coil pavilion). They will be heard by the Planning Commission on October 20 and return to council on October 26. Key Outcomes - DelDOT Shared-Use Path Agreement (US 113): Council authorized the Mayor to execute the maintenance agreement. The city will maintain the path; DelDOT retains responsibility for the Route 113 roadway and drainage. Passed unanimously. - Halloween Resolution (Res. 2026-18): Trick-or-treating was officially set for Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Passed unanimously. - Milford Corporate Center Change Order 8: A no-cost, 30-day extension was approved for contractor George & Lynch to complete punch list items by October 30, 2026. - Police Evidence Facility Change Order: A $3,010 change order for breaker panel relocation was approved, funded from contingency. - Upcoming Events: A 4th Ward town hall was announced for October 13. Carlisle Fire Company announced an open house for its new Station 2 and its fire prevention open house on October 31.

The Milford Board of Adjustment convened on October 8, 2026, to conduct public hearings on three variance applications and adopt findings of fact for three previously heard cases. All motions carried unanimously. Two public comments were submitted by a single speaker during the hearings. Public Comments & Testimony - Julie Morris (21142 CDB Troy, Milford) addressed two applications. For the Clean Energy Inc. application, Ms. Morris opposed the reductions of the side yard setback and landscape buffer along the southern property line, arguing that a six-foot fence does not adequately mitigate the building being five feet closer to a neighboring residence. She also requested further clarification that the proposed use is not an automotive service. For the Halpern Plaza sign variance, Ms. Morris questioned the legal necessity of the variance, arguing the city's ordinance does not explicitly restrict freestanding signs to tenants of specific buildings and citing the Delaware Supreme Court ruling Jack Lingo (2022) regarding ambiguous zoning ordinances. She suggested the issue should have been handled as an appeal of interpretation rather than a variance request. Discussion Items 1. Clean Energy Inc. – Variances (BOA-379-2026) - Applicant's Representation: Chad Warren (Davis Bell & Fradel) presented on behalf of Clean Energy Inc. for the property at 1022 North Walnut Street (southwest corner of Buccaneer Boulevard and North Walnut Street), zoned C3. The application requested three area variances: front yard setback reduction (30 ft to 20 ft on Buccaneer Boulevard), side yard setback reduction (20 ft to 10 ft on the south side), and landscape buffer reduction (15 ft to 10 ft on the south side). - Proposed Use: The 2,400-square-foot warehouse will house a filter cleaning operation. The applicant explicitly stated the business is not an automotive service center and no heavy trucks would remain on site. The existing single-family home will be retained. - Hardship Argument: The parcel (0.4 acres, 70 ft wide) is a pre-existing non-conforming lot under the current code (minimum 1 acre, 170 ft wide). Current standards leave only a 20-foot buildable area, making normal improvements impractical without relief. - Board Deliberations: Board members acknowledged the practical difficulty imposed by the lot's non-conforming dimensions. A letter of support from the neighbor to the south was noted as evidence the variances would not seriously affect surrounding properties. 2. Joseph Phillips – Fence Height Variance (BOA-395-2026) - Applicant's Representation: Joseph Phillips requested a variance from the 3.5-foot maximum fence height in the front yard (R-1 district) to allow a 4-foot fence around an existing fish pond on his property at Causeway Avenue (southwest corner of Causeway Avenue and South Walnut Street). - Proposed Use: The fence is intended to ensure safety for guests attending events held on the property, such as Hippie Fest and a ghost tour. - Board Deliberations: Members noted the proposed fence will be located inside an existing perimeter fence and would not be more visible from the street than the current fencing. The Board found the variance reasonable for public safety. 3. Halpern Plaza – Sign Usage Variance (BOA-401-2026) - Applicant's Representation: Kevin Esslinger requested a variance to allow either of the two permitted freestanding signs at Halpern Plaza (North DuPont Boulevard) to advertise tenants operating from either building within the shopping center, rather than being restricted to building-specific signage. - Proposed Use: The plaza functions as one integrated commercial property with common ownership, management, and parking. The variance sought flexibility to balance tenant advertising across the two signs as tenancy changes. - Staff Position: Staff interpreted the code as requiring each building's sign to serve that specific building, creating the need for the variance. The variance does not increase the number, size, height, or illumination of signs. - Board Deliberations: The Board found the restriction created an unnecessary hardship given the integrated nature of the development and approved the request for greater flexibility. Findings of Fact The Board approved findings of fact for three applications heard previously: 387-2026 (Lands of Timothy Lesnar), 374-2026 (Telos Properties), and 380-2026 (Baltimore Air Coil). No further discussion was held on these cases. Key Outcomes - Clean Energy Inc. Variances: Motion to grant all three variances (front setback, side setback, landscape buffer). Vote: 5-0 (Rizzo, Wiley, Muscola, White, Warful). - Joseph Phillips Fence Height Variance: Motion to grant the 0.5-foot variance. Vote: 5-0 (Wiley, White, Muscola, Rizzo, Warful). - Halpern Plaza Sign Variance: Motion to grant the variance for flexible advertising across signs. Vote: 5-0 (Wiley, Rizzo, White, Muscola, Warful). - Findings of Fact: Approved unanimously for applications 387-2026, 374-2026, and 380-2026.

The Milford City Council convened at 6:00 PM on Monday, September 28, 2026. The meeting opened with a 15-minute public comment period, followed by routine approvals, employee recognitions and proclamations, a monthly finance update, a Milford Corporate Center marketing presentation, a grant notification, and votes on Watergate Phase One acceptance and a DelDOT agreement. One council member (Councilwoman Khleesis) was absent. The meeting closed after motions to enter executive session and then to adjourn. Public Comments & Testimony - Jennifer Sinelli, of 715 New Street, Milford, identified herself as a former DelDOT transportation planner for Sussex County and a former task force member for the state Office of State Planning. She stated that special-needs students must be picked up and dropped off at their door, and argued that approving roadway-width waivers that prevent school buses from entering neighborhoods violates students' ADA rights. She said she would start with the ACLU and affected parents and 'sue the city' and developers if the waivers continue. She also warned about flooding and roadway maintenance, asserted that developers seek waivers only for profit, and criticized the mayor's vision and an attempt to compose the planning commission of only men. - Julie Morris, of 21142 C to Reach Road, said she agreed with everything Sinelli said. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved by unanimous voice vote after a motion and second. - The previous meeting minutes were approved by unanimous voice vote. Recognitions, Proclamations & Awards - The mayor read an email from John DiTommaso thanking customer service employee Vicky Jones for compiling utility and tax records for four Milford properties, creating new water/sewer accounts, and outlining service reconnection steps. - Finance Director Lou Vitola read Proclamation 2026-18, honoring National Customer Service Week (October 5–9, 2026). - Proclamation 2026-19 recognized Public Power Week (October 4–10, 2026), and a second Proclamation 2026-19 proclaimed October 2026 as Cybersecurity Awareness Month. (The same proclamation number appears twice in the transcript.) - Electric Director Tony Chapo reported that Milford Electric received the APPA RP3 designation at the platinum level, a Navajo Nation appreciation plaque for Light Up Navajo volunteers Matt Patterson and Tyler Sewell, and that Susanna Frederick completed the DMEC Certified Power Supervisor program. - Public Works Superintendent Steve Ellingsworth introduced Ronnie Simonson as the new Water and Wastewater Supervisor; Simonson moved from Colorado to be closer to family in New Jersey. Discussion Items - Monthly Finance Report: Lou Vitola said July results were too early to draw conclusions, utilities were not as strong as expected, and expenses were affected by three bi-weekly payrolls in July. He stated that formal approval of the July and August reports would come next month. In response to a council question, he estimated the collection percentage for taxes due by September 30 at about 19%, then clarified it might be closer to 14%, with roughly $1 million of the $7.3 million collected as of two weeks before the meeting. - Milford Corporate Center Update: Neil Killey and Ann Bailey of NAI Emery Hill presented the marketing program. They reported over 50,000 engagements across digital platforms, including 25,000 on CoStar/LoopNet and 22,000 on Crexi, and a digital billboard on Route 1 for three months. They are targeting industrial, distribution, manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics users, and have had physical site visits. Council members stressed the importance of aggressive marketing, employment levels, and making Milford a place where future generations can work. City Manager Chris Coleman noted staff are working with Emory Hill to track job numbers and plan community tours for prospects. The presenters said they plan to pause the Route 1 billboard after September because only one inquiry could be tied to it. - Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant: Sergeant Tim Maloney, on behalf of Chief Ash, notified council of the FY26 grant funding amount; no council action was required. Key Outcomes - Adopted Resolution 2026-15 (the transcript also reads '2025-15'), accepting the Watergate Phase One water system, wastewater system, stormwater system, roadway pavement, concrete curb, and MUTCD signage for public use. Public comment was opened and closed with no speakers. Councilman James asked City Manager Coleman whether the city had verified documentation and was comfortable with maintenance responsibilities; Coleman confirmed he was '100% comfortable.' The roll-call vote was 6–0 with one absent. - Voted unanimously (6–0) to table the DelDOT Agreement T2023 for the US 113 Pathway Phase One after Councilman Marabella identified potentially conflicting language between DelDOT and city maintenance obligations. Staff will seek clarification from DelDOT and return to council. - Approved a motion to enter executive session, and later approved a motion to adjourn.

The Planning Commission met on September 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM for a workshop on the 2028 Comprehensive Plan Update. The meeting covered Chapter 4 (Government/Community Services) and Chapter 5 (Housing), with presentations from University of Delaware and Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA). No public hearings were held. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Commissioner Redden moved to approve the minutes from April 21, 2026; seconded and unanimously approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the general comment period. Discussion Items - Chapter 4 - Government/Community Services: BJ DeCourcy from University of Delaware presented the updated chapter, which includes sections on water, wastewater, stormwater, electricity, sustainability, and goals. Discussions addressed stormwater issues in downtown, climate change projections (days above 75°F increasing from 6 to 15 by 2050), and sustainability goals including electric vehicles and equipment. Commissioners expressed concerns about the environmental impact of electric equipment and the need for battery storage for solar energy. City staff noted new objectives for facility plans and stormwater facilities plan. - Chapter 5 - Housing Chapter: DSHA representatives Karen Horton and Samuel Quinn presented on housing challenges and legislative requirements. They highlighted that 44% of Milford households are single-person, and Delaware faces a 19,000-unit housing gap. Milford currently has 10% of its housing stock as subsidized affordable housing. SB23 requires an affordable housing plan with three required elements: increasing density through bulk standards, parking reform, and inclusionary zoning—which align with Milford's SJR8 technical assistance program with Smart Growth America. DSHA discussed optional menu strategies for SB23, including density bonuses, transit-oriented development, expedited permit review, fee waivers, form-based codes, multifamily housing by right, supportive housing, mixed-use residential, and other approved policies. Commissioners raised concerns about housing preservation and rehabilitation, noting that 44% of homes pre-date 1980, and emphasized the need for incentives for rehab and conversions. - Housing Data and Pipeline: BJ DeCourcy presented housing stock data. Since 2024, 175 single-family attached/duplex units and 112 multifamily units have been built. The approved pipeline includes 1,070 single-family detached, 1,004 single-family attached/duplex, and 1,547 multifamily units. Rob noted that 30% of land within city limits is vacant or agricultural, potentially yielding 3,200 more units. Commissioners discussed that despite approvals, many units are not being built, and the city may need to adjust regulations. Key Outcomes - The minutes from April 21, 2026, were approved. - The fire chief presentation will be rescheduled for a future meeting. - DSHA committed to providing guidance on SB23 and HB 450 soon, with training available. - The commission will continue drafting the housing chapter, incorporating feedback from tonight's discussion. - The next workshop in October will include DelDOT for the transportation chapter. - Three new planning commission members appointed by city council will join in October.

The Milford City Council held a regular meeting at 6:00 PM on September 14, 2026. The agenda included public comments on community support for Haitian families and state land-use policy, the reading of a FOIA settlement statement, a presentation on economic development, approval of several resolutions and easements, and departmental reports. Key actions included tabling a decision on the Kent County Economic Partnership, adopting a fund reserve policy, and approving appointments to the Planning Commission. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the monthly police report (1,362 calls for service in August). - Unanimously approved the city clerk's report, which noted the Ward 3 council member (Joan King) would be sworn in on October 12th, and listed upcoming community events. - Unanimously approved the city manager's and all indirect reports' reports. - Proclamation 2026-17 declared September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. The proclamation stated suicide is the 12th leading cause of death in the U.S., with 49,476 annual deaths, an estimated 1.6 million attempts, and the number one killer of police officers. Public Comments & Testimony - Dan Bond (105 North Street, Fourth Ward): Expressed strong support for an estimated 100 Haitian families in Milford facing difficulties due to the revocation of Temporary Protective Status (TPS). He noted that families have lost jobs and are in shock. He urged the city council to consider how it can formally and informally help mobilize churches and organizations to recognize the problem and provide assistance. - Jen Sidnella Miller (former DelDOT Transportation Planner for Sussex County): Expressed full support for Mr. Bond's comments. She then expressed opposition to Senate Bill 23, arguing that the state was forced to act because some local governments have been unaware of the infrastructure responsibilities that come with local control. She urged the city to make responsible decisions and work with the state, stating that all state taxpayers should not be paying for Milford's responsibilities. Discussion Items - FOIA Violation Acknowledgment: As part of a settlement with an individual, the city council read a statement acknowledging that the state Attorney General's office found the Delaware Freedom of Information Act was violated by denying Lance Tressler's rights to speak at the meeting on January 13, 2025. The city agreed to review its meeting and hearing procedures with legal counsel. - Kent County Economic Partnership (KEP) Presentation: Linda Parkowski, Executive Director of KEP, presented the benefits of rejoining the partnership, citing economic development successes in similar municipalities and requesting a $25,000 annual membership. Council discussed the history of Milford's withdrawal, which occurred when funds were redirected to hire an in-house Economic Development Director. Concerns were raised about existing contractual marketing obligations for the Milford Corporate Center (Emory Hill). A motion to table the decision until a future meeting when council has full information on existing obligations was approved. - Independence Commons Deed Restriction Amendment: A public hearing was held on the proposed amendment. The council voted to approve the amendment, which revises sign requirements in the deed restrictions to allow signs coordinated with architectural styles and provides an appeal process to the Planning Commission. - Milford Corporate Center Easements: Council approved two easement agreements. The first was with Blue Wired LLC for 406 square feet ($1,400) of land disturbance from roundabout construction. The second was with Delmarva Vitrio Retinal Building LLC for 46 square feet ($250). Both were funded by Realty Transfer Tax reserves. - DelDOT Agreement Amendment: Council authorized the mayor to sign an amended maintenance agreement with DelDOT for the Northeast Front Street/Rehoboth Boulevard project. - Fund Reserve Policy Update: Finance Director Lou Vitola presented an updated Fund Reserve Policy. The policy formalizes utility-to-general fund transfer limits (12.5% for electric, water, sewer) and updates the Realty Transfer Tax pledge formula. The updated policy was approved. - Carlisle Fire Company Residency Incentive: The fire chief requested a revision to the residency incentive for volunteer firefighters, proposing a reduction in the required annual call volume from 30% to 25%, citing additional community event requirements. The request was referred to the city manager and finance director for further review and a report to council. - Staff Reports and Deliberations: - Planning Director Rob Pierce reported 167 new residential dwelling permits were issued year-to-date (72 apartments, 24 condos, 6 townhouses, 65 single-family). Councilmember Wilson raised concerns about a perceived decline in proactive code enforcement regarding tall grass and overgrowth. - Public Works addressed a water leak on Northwest Front Street, confirming it is a city issue and a quote is being sought. Updates were given on cloudy water concerns and the EPA lead pipe inventory program. Council discussed the possibility of a public forum on the lead issue. - Councilman Marabella raised safety concerns regarding the North Rehoboth Boulevard and Route 14 intersection, requesting a traffic study. - Finance Director Vitola reported that $7.1 million in property taxes was billed for Fiscal Year 2027, $544,000 higher than the previous year. The monthly finance report was tabled to the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Tabled: Decision on rejoining the Kent County Economic Partnership. - Approved: Fund Reserve Policy, Independence Commons deed restriction amendment, DelDOT agreement amendment, MIFR Corporate Center easements (Blue Wired and Delmarva Vitrio). - Appointed: Shelby D'Costanzo (reappointed), Robert Longo, and Francis Reagan to the Planning Commission. - Referred: Carlisle Fire Company's residency incentive revision to the city manager and finance director for study. - Tabled: Monthly finance report to the next council meeting. - Acknowledged: Statement regarding the FOIA violation was read into the record.

The Milford Finance and Audit Committee met on September 14, 2026, to receive the quarterly investment performance review for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, and the annual Investment Policy Statement (IPS) review. A fiscal 2025 audit update was also on the agenda, but the available transcript does not show it being presented before adjournment. No agenda or minutes were provided; this summary is based solely on the raw transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - A 15-minute public comment period was opened (three minutes per person). No members of the public appeared in the audience or online, and the period was closed without testimony. Investment Policy Statement Annual Review - Finance Director Lou Vitola reported that PFM led the required annual IPS review and recommended no changes; staff reviewed and concurred. - Vitola said he will update the IPS headers to note the review at the start of fiscal 2027 and recirculate the statement; any future issues would be brought to the committee. - Jeff Facino of PFM Asset Management said last year's minor sector-allocation tweaks (such as increasing asset-backed securities) were sufficient and the policy is in good shape for the coming year. Quarterly Investment Performance Review (Quarter Ended June 30, 2026) - Jeff Facino presented the market outlook and portfolio results. - Market context: The economy remained resilient despite geopolitical noise (including the Strait of Hormuz); the Fed held its policy rate at 3.5%–3.75% during the quarter. Treasury yields rose, especially at the front end, and the 10-year Treasury was at 4.99% around the meeting date. Energy prices rose dramatically, keeping inflation elevated, while the labor market stayed strong; earlier expectations of rate cuts were reversed. - Fed outlook: PFM expected a quarter-point rate hike at the Fed's meeting that week, possibly another later in the year, and then a wait-and-see period. - AI spending: A council member cited Anthropic's warning to the AI industry and asked whether slowing AI-related capital spending could lead to additional unemployment. Facino agreed a slowdown would come at some point but said AI-driven efficiencies could still benefit other sectors. - Volatility protection: A councilwoman asked what Milford is doing to protect the portfolio, citing an equity market concentrated in a few companies and international bond-market shifts. Facino replied that the city holds no equities and no international debt; the portfolio consists of high-quality U.S. bonds, with liquidity and safety prioritized ahead of yield. - Portfolio composition: Total portfolio just over $35 million; AA credit quality; diversified across U.S. treasuries, agencies, commercial paper, corporations, and asset-backed securities (ABS at 4.8% of the portfolio, representing equipment leases, auto loans, and high-quality collateral). The 43% corporate allocation consists of high-quality senior debt vetted by PFM's corporate credit research team. - Sector changes: Commercial paper declined from 5% to 1%, reflecting the $4 million withdrawal during the quarter; other sector changes mostly reflected that withdrawal. - Performance: The portfolio outperformed its benchmark for the quarter, one-year, and since-inception periods. Councilman Mariabella (transcribed variously as 'Mara Pela' and 'Bell') asked how much was withdrawn and what portion represented profit; Vitola said $4 million was withdrawn, the portfolio's net value declined by $3.6 million for the quarter (with earnings covering the difference), and over the trailing 12 months the portfolio was down $2 million after the $4 million withdrawal – roughly $2 million of positive performance – exceeding the city's conservative budget expectation of about $1 million. - Duration and policy: Vitola explained that securities purchased at par and held to maturity return the stated yield, and unrealized losses from rising rates erode to zero as interest is collected. Yield ranks third behind safety and liquidity; the IPS governs all decisions, and a future withdrawal would be sourced across sectors proportionally to remain policy-compliant. - Upcoming cash needs: Vitola said additional withdrawals are expected this quarter for the Milford Corporate Center, including water and sewer reserves to pay contractor George & Lynch. The segment tied to the 2016 general obligation bonds is about $3 million-plus, with draws planned over the roughly six years remaining. Presentation Format - The committee was asked to evaluate the new slide format (pages 1–16 before the account summary on page 17). Members said the more visual, easier-to-digest layout was a plus; one member with computer trouble still praised it. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The committee received the quarterly investment report and accepted PFM's recommendation of no IPS changes; Vitola will update the IPS headers and recirculate the statement. - Councilman Mariabella said he was glad the portfolio is conservative; Councilman Bell later concurred that 'it's not our money' and praised the decision to engage PFM about three to four years ago. - The chair emphasized safety, liquidity, and yield, stated the city is 'not gamblers' with taxpayer dollars, and credited the investment program with helping Milford avoid tax increases. - The city manager thanked the committee for its questions, and the meeting adjourned. - The fiscal 2025 audit update was listed on the agenda and mentioned by the Finance Director, but it does not appear in the transcript before adjournment; this may reflect an incomplete transcript.