Public Meetings - Milford, Delaware

The regular city meeting scheduled for July 13, 2026, was not held. The presiding officer announced that the meeting would be canceled due to the absence of a quorum. The meeting will be rescheduled at a later date and time, with public notification to follow. No agenda, minutes, or substantive discussion were presented.

The Milford Board of Adjustments held a meeting on July 9, 2026, addressing variance requests for three properties and conducting annual officer elections. All variance requests were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the open comment period for non-agenda items. Two individuals signed up but their topics were on the agenda. Discussion Items - Southern States Sign Variance (BOA-339-2026): The applicant sought to replace two existing non-conforming signs with a single 10-foot freestanding sign located 4 feet from the front lot line, requiring a reduction from the required 10-foot setback. Staff noted the existing signs were already at 4 feet. The applicant argued that moving the sign back would impact parking. The Board granted the variance unanimously, citing hardship and aesthetic improvements. - Pierce Hardy Storage Shed Variance (BOA-308-2026): The applicant proposed constructing a 5,250 sq. ft. accessory storage shed in the front yard of an industrial property (I-1), requiring two variances: (1) to place an accessory structure in the front yard instead of the rear, and (2) to reduce the setback from a non-industrial (C3) boundary from 200 feet to 135 feet. The shed was needed for relocated equipment. The Board approved both variances unanimously, noting the shape of the lot and existing building placement created a hardship. - Brian Scheipe Fence Variance (BOA-349-2026): The applicant sought a variance to erect a 5-foot tall privacy fence along Wild Goose Lane on a corner lot, where the code allows only 3.5-foot non-privacy fences in front yards. The fence would enclose backyard space lost to a retention area and provide safety for pets. The Board approved both height and privacy fence variances unanimously, citing safety and hardship. Key Outcomes - Votes: All three variance requests (Southern States, Pierce Hardy, and Brian Scheipe) were approved by unanimous votes of the five board members (Rizzo, Wiley, Maskola, White, Werfel). Each variance had a motion and second, and all members voted in favor. - Organizational Officers: The Board elected Brendan Werfel as Chair, Joe Wiley as Vice Chair, and Andrea White as Secretary for the upcoming term. - Next Steps: The findings of fact for the June meeting will be prepared for the August meeting, along with the July meeting findings.

The Milford City Council met on June 22, 2026, beginning with a 15-minute public comment period and moving through department updates, two authorization votes, a split retainage vote, and executive session actions. This summary covers the Deep Branch Park Phase One update, selection of an audit firm, and contract actions for the Milford Corporate Center project. Public Comments & Testimony - Reggie Davis, with the Utility Workers Union of America, gave the only public comment. He said Milford Public Works employees recently selected the union as their bargaining representative and want a voice and a fair union contract. - Davis alleged that immediately after union certification, city management unjustly discharged one union supporter on the same day it learned workers had selected the union, despite naming that employee Employee of the Month; terminated another union supporter; disciplined another; and told workers they would lose their COLA increases because they chose union representation, even though state law guarantees this right. He said these abuses will not stand, vowed to fight every retaliatory action, and urged the city to end this conduct and build a constructive relationship. Recognition and Communications - The Mayor and councilmembers thanked Councilwoman Katrina Wilson and her family for the Juneteenth festival, and thanked Public Works, Parks and Recreation, and the police department. Keynote speaker Reba Hollandsworth, who will be 100 in October, was praised for her valuable history. - A reminder was issued that the Ward 3 election is July 25, with a filing deadline of July 2. - The DLLG dinner will be Thursday at the Cheswold Fire Hall, with Kent County Deputy State Solicitor Stacey Bone Mandy as guest speaker; it is the final DLLG meeting of the season until September. - A councilmember announced being installed as President of the Delaware Municipal Clerks Association, with the term beginning that Thursday. Discussion Items Deep Branch Park Phase One Update - Parks and Recreation Director Brad Denny provided an informational update. At the May 27, 2025 council meeting, council voted to move forward with Phase One of Deep Branch Park, approve the preliminary site plan, pursue agency approvals, and competitively bid the project. - The phase includes the entranceway, sub-base, curb, parking lot, sidewalk, perimeter stone trail, stormwater pond excavation, topsoil and bank stabilization, runoff pipe, grinder pump and force main, water service for a future restroom, landscape buffering, privacy fencing, and an automated gate. - The design consultant's construction cost estimate is $1,479,810.20; with contingencies, the total project cost is about $1.5 million. Funding includes $1,097,500 in anticipated grants from Community Reinvestment Funds, Community Transportation Funds, and the Outdoor Recreation, Parks and Trails program, of which $963,823 remains available or anticipated. The $576,177 balance is made up of $436,177 in previously approved general fund reserves from the downtown restrooms and Marshall Pond projects and $140,000 in FY26 Realty Transfer Taxes. - Denny explained that soil borings are needed for Sussex County Conservation Authorization. This will require clearing an overgrown access way and bringing equipment onto the site for one or two days. He stressed that this is not construction; after agency approvals, Phase One will be advertised for competitive public bidding and brought back to council. Audit Services Bid Award - Finance Director Lou Vitola reported that the Finance and Audit Committee unanimously recommended engaging ZNA for a three-year audit of the city. - The RFP process used independent scoring by two committee members, with a third scorer held in reserve in case of a tie. Price counted for 25 percent of the scoring, and the selected firm had relevant public-sector and utility audit experience. - Council approved the recommendation unanimously. Milford Corporate Center - George & Lynch Change Order No. 5 - Public Works Director Willis Shea presented two contract actions for the Milford Corporate Center Phase One project. - Change order no. 5: George & Lynch requested a 49-day, no-cost time extension because of delays in Verizon telecommunication line relocation on Milford Harrington Highway and electric conduit construction. The contract completion date would move from July 10, 2026 to August 28, 2026. - Retainage reduction: George & Lynch requested reducing retainage from 6 percent to 3 percent. Current retainage is $1,015,685.99 with 89 percent of the project complete; the reduced final retainage would be $569,582.53. The contractor would provide a one-year guarantee after conditional acceptance. KCI Technologies and staff recommended approval. - During discussion, a councilmember asked about financial exposure from the retainage reduction. Vitola said the release was already recorded as an expense and did not create a financing problem, and that KCI's support indicated solid work; with the 49-day delay, holding full retainage creates a significant cost of funding for the contractor on the $18 million project. Councilman James said he rarely saw retainage reduced before the punch-list period. Willis Shea said George & Lynch had been an excellent partner, the project was about 95 percent complete, and the remaining work was mostly electrical conduit. - A councilmember voting no cited the unknown amount of the one-year bond and the fact that this was the fifth change order. Executive Session and Motions - Council moved into executive session and later returned to open session. - A motion on issue no. 1 authorized the city manager and city solicitor to move forward with contract negotiations as discussed in executive session. The motion passed without opposition. - A motion on issue no. 2 authorized the city manager and city solicitor to take actions as discussed in executive session; after a request for specificity, a councilmember clarified the action as rescinding the withdrawal of the affidavit. The motion passed without opposition. - Council then adjourned. Key Outcomes - Unanimously approved engaging ZNA to perform the city's financial audit for three years. - Approved George & Lynch change order no. 5, extending the Milford Corporate Center Phase One completion date to August 28, 2026, at no additional cost. - Approved the George & Lynch retainage reduction from 6 percent to 3 percent by a 4-3 vote. - Authorized city staff to proceed with executive session actions related to contract negotiations and to rescind the withdrawal of the affidavit. - Took no formal vote on the Deep Branch Park Phase One update; it was informational, with next steps of soil borings, agency approvals, and then competitive bidding.

The Finance and Audit Committee met on June 22, 2026 at 5:00 PM to review quarterly investment performance, an S&P Global rating update, audit services recommendation, and reserve policy amendments. The meeting began with a 15-minute public comment period; no members of the public signed up to speak, either in person or online, so it was closed. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made; the period was closed with no speakers. Discussion Items - Quarterly Investment Performance Review: Jeff Facino of PFM Asset Management presented the first quarter 2026 review (ended March 31, 2026). Key points: unemployment remained steady at 4.3% through May; inflation (CPI) rose to 4.2% in May due to energy price spikes from the Iran war; Treasury yields increased over the quarter, but the portfolio's three-month return was 0.44% vs. a benchmark of 0.33%, outperforming by 11 basis points. One-year return was 4.54% vs. 3.91% benchmark. The portfolio market value was just under $39 million with an effective duration of 2.08 years and a yield of 4.15%. Annual fees are 15 basis points (0.15%). Lou Vitola noted that prior to professional management, the city earned only 56 basis points blended (including earnings credit), and the professional management has generated approximately $4–5 million in returns over 2.5 years, avoiding $2 million in lost earnings. Council members expressed appreciation for the fiscal responsibility. - S&P Global Rating Update: Lou Vitola reported that S&P Global downgraded the city's 2016 GO bond rating from AA- (excellent) to A+ (strong). The downgrade stems from two factors: (1) under GASB rules, the city's interfund loan for the police facility construction created a negative unrestricted net position on the governmental fund balance sheet (despite overall net position increasing for 11 straight years); (2) S&P assessed the city's economic metrics (income, employment, etc.) as weaker than surrounding counties or the state. Lou explained that the rating has minimal practical impact since the city does not currently rely on public debt markets (using state/federal loans and grants). He emphasized the $600,000 in interest savings achieved by paying off the construction loan early using internal reserves. Council members discussed the disconnect between S&P's view and the city's strong financial management. - Audit Services Recommendation: Kevin Gaboria, Acting Finance Director, presented the results of an RFP for independent audit services for FY 2026–2028 (with two one-year options). Three proposals were received and evaluated using a scoring rubric (75% qualitative, 25% cost). All three firms were qualified. One firm was double the cost and received a zero in cost. The top two firms had similar scores, but ZA (the current auditor) was recommended due to its 100% public sector focus, experience with cities offering electric utilities (matching Milford's electric, water, sewer, and solid waste), and the majority of ZA's clients reporting on a calendar-year basis, offering more flexibility. The committee voted unanimously to recommend ZA to the full council. - Reserve Policy Amendments: Lou Vitola proposed updates to the city's reserve policy originally adopted in 2021. Key changes include adding a utility transfer policy (based on American Public Power Association research) that sets maximum transfer percentages from electric, water, and sewer funds at 12.5% each, and a minimum of 0% from solid waste. The policy also updates the realty transfer tax reserve to a five-year average. The committee voted unanimously to recommend adoption to the full council, though Lou noted that the recommendation will appear on a future council agenda, as it was not expected for final approval at this meeting. Key Outcomes - Motion 1: A motion to recommend to the full council that ZA be selected for audit services for FY 2026–2028 passed unanimously (all in favor). - Motion 2: A motion to recommend adoption of the reserve policy amendments passed unanimously (all in favor). This item will be placed on a future council agenda for final approval. - The committee received the quarterly investment report and S&P rating update as informational items; no formal action was taken.

The Milford Planning Commission met on June 16, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, a public hearing for a conditional use application, and an update on upcoming workshops. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a conditional use application for an electronic message center sign at a daycare facility, finding it functionally equivalent to a private school under the zoning code. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (August 2025): Motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak at the start of the meeting, and none joined remotely. - During the public hearing for CU 313-2026, no comments were made in favor, opposition, or general. Discussion Items - Conditional Use Application CU 313-2026 – Beach Babies: An application by Beach Babies (6251 Radian Circle) for a freestanding sign with an electronic message center (EMC) on property zoned R3 (Garden Apartment and Townhouse District). The daycare sought approval under the category "public and private schools" in Chapter 230-24.11, which permits EMC signs for schools, churches, and civic organizations via conditional use. - Applicant Presentation: Eric Wall and Mark Davidson (Pannoni Associates) argued the daycare serves a preschool curriculum, making it functionally equivalent to a private school. They cited American Planning Association definitions and noted the sign would comply with all dimensional, dimming, and operational standards. They emphasized the request did not change the use or intensity. - Commission Questions: Commissioners questioned whether the daycare qualifies as a private school. Planning Director Rob Pierce noted the zoning code lacks a definition of "school" and staff interpreted it broadly in favor of the applicant. Commissioners explored licensing under Delaware Department of Education and the curriculum’s educational nature. Concerns about future residential impacts were addressed by noting existing illumination standards and the conditional use process. - Future Workshop Update: Planning Director Pierce announced that starting next month, the commission will hold workshops to review feedback from city council and community on the comprehensive plan update. Presentations from Carlisle Fire Company (July) and the school district (August) are anticipated. Key Outcomes - Motion to Recommend Approval of CU 313-2026: The motion stated satisfaction that the daycare qualifies as a private school under Chapter 230-24.11 and meets the criteria of Chapter 230-48. - Vote: 7-0 in favor. Commissioners Di Costanza, Sylvester, Hammond, Redden, Solz, Purcell, and Wright each cited the applicable code sections and the applicant’s justification. - Next Steps: The application will be reviewed by city council on July 13, 2026. The commission’s recommendation is advisory.

The Milford Board of Adjustment convened on June 11, 2026, with three of five members present (later four voted) to consider four variance applications, approve findings of fact from prior meetings, and defer organizational elections. All variance requests were unanimously approved, and no public comments were received in person or online. Consent Calendar - Approval of Findings of Fact for prior applications: The Board approved findings for applications 292‑2026 (Ashley Furniture sign), 289‑2026 (Bay Health Campus Medical), 294‑2026 (Miller Investment), 293‑2026 (Billion Holdings), 281‑2026 (ML TJ LLC), and 260‑2026 (second Ashley Furniture item). All motions carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the open comment period. For the Lands of Brian West application, a written statement from property owner Gavin Leg was read into the record expressing concern that a lot significantly smaller than the minimum size should not be approved solely to facilitate sale or construction. Discussion Items - Sussex Habitat for Humanity – 21 Columbia Street (BOA‑325‑2026): The applicant sought a variance to reduce the southern side yard setback from 8 feet to 3 feet (5 feet less than required) after an as‑built survey revealed the dwelling was constructed closer to the property line than previously approved. The original variance had permitted a 4.5‑foot setback. The applicant acknowledged human error and agreed to install fire‑rated construction per building official requirements. The Board questioned the applicant about the sequence of construction and the cost of fire‑rating. The variance was granted unanimously. - CK Holdings Worldwide LLC – 200 West Liberty Way (BOA‑317‑2026): The applicant requested a reduction in required off‑street parking from 53 spaces to 49 spaces (a 4‑space reduction) to allow a martial arts studio in a medical office building. The studio operates only in the evenings, so parking demand does not overlap with daytime medical office use. The applicant’s engineer noted that adding four spaces would be an unnecessary expense. The studio owner confirmed membership‑based operation controls attendance. The Board found the request reasonable and voted unanimously to approve. - Lands of Brian West – 43 Fisher Avenue (BOA‑328‑2026): The applicant sought three variances to subdivide one parcel into two: Lot A (6,045 sq ft, required 8,000 sq ft) and Lot B (5,278 sq ft, required 8,000 sq ft; width 54.22 ft, required 80 ft). The property is in an R2 district with existing homes of similar size. The lot line was shifted to preserve a garage/shed. A nearby property owner submitted a letter of opposition. The Board noted that the lot sizes are in line with the neighborhood and that the hardship stems from the inability to widen the lot. All three variance requests were approved unanimously. - Maston Trade Yards (BOA‑331‑2026): The applicant, Jack Lingo Asset Management (successor to PUGS 2 LLC), requested two variances to reduce the required 200‑foot setback from non‑industrial district boundaries: from 200 ft to 45 ft for the adjacent R3‑zoned property (solar farm) and from 200 ft to 40 ft for the adjacent C3‑zoned property. The same variances had been approved for the prior owner, but site plan changes (reconfigured buildings, added stormwater pond) required new approval. Without the variances, only one building could be built. The Board noted the neighboring uses (solar farm, warehouses) and approved both variances unanimously. Key Outcomes - Votes: All four variance applications were approved, each by unanimous roll‑call vote (four members voting). - Deferrals: The election of chair, vice chair, and secretary was deferred to the next meeting to allow absent members to participate. - Next Steps: Approved variances allow Habitat for Humanity to complete the dwelling with fire‑rating; CK Holdings to operate the martial arts studio with 49 parking spaces; Brian West to subdivide the property into two legal lots; and Maston Trade Yards to develop five buildings with reduced setbacks.

The Milford City Council met on June 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM to conduct its regular business. Key actions included the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2027 operating and capital budget with a one-cent property tax increase, approval of several conditional use applications, and recognition of waste/recycling workers, the Garden Club, and Juneteenth. Council also authorized matching funds for a July 3rd laser light show hosted by Downtown Milford Inc., and approved multiple resolutions related to infrastructure, public safety, and community development. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda as amended (removed discussion of Deep Ranch Park Phase 1 plan). - Accepted staff reports from the city manager, police chief, and city clerk. Public Comments & Testimony - Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Hearing: Brandy Nauman (Sussex County Community Development) and Aaron Cooper (Kent County) presented the CDBG program, highlighting $290,000 in housing rehabilitation funding for Milford over the last five years (14 households assisted) and a current waiting list of 19 homeowners in the Kent County portion. They requested endorsement of applications for FY27 funding. No public comments were offered. - Conditional Use – Daycare (Ordinance 2026-07): Jamelia Scott proposed converting 825 sq ft of a shopping center into a before/after school daycare. Gary Rhodes (Southern States Milford Cooperative, the building owner) spoke in favor, praising the applicant's passion. No opposition. Council approved 7-0. - Conditional Use – Museum (Ordinance 2026-08): John Roach (engineer) and Terry Rogers (trustee, Parson Thorne Mansion) proposed a 2,000 sq ft museum building and a waiver from curbing requirements (Chapter 230-20K) to preserve historic character. The museum would display period artifacts and replicas. No public comments. Council approved the waiver and conditional use, each 7-0. - Conditional Use – Commercial Redevelopment (Ordinance 2026-09): Alan Dector (Pennoni Associates) represented MLTJ LLC to redevelop 3 acres at 250 N. Rehoboth Blvd. into flex office/warehouse space (four buildings totaling 34,000 sq ft). The project reduces impervious cover from 95% to 78% and provides 62 parking spaces. Three waivers were requested: (1) curbing waiver (recommended approved by Planning Commission) – granted 7-0; (2) temporary sidewalk waiver along DelDOT road, with a $5,500 fee-in-lieu paid – granted 7-0; (3) bicycle parking waiver (Planning Commission recommended denial) – council voted 7-0 to approve the waiver, achieving a supermajority. The conditional use was then approved 7-0. Public comment: James Grant spoke in favor, praising the applicant's property maintenance standards and the need for revitalization. Discussion Items - Proclamations: Council issued three proclamations: (1) Waste and Recycling Workers Week (June 15–20, 2026); (2) Garden Club Week (noting the club’s 60th anniversary); (3) Juneteenth Celebration in Milford (fourth annual, taking place June 19). - Electric Department Recognitions: City staff introduced new team member Robert Paladino (returning after private sector experience) and recognized Matt Patterson and Tyler Sewell for volunteering on the “Light Up Navajo” project, which brings electricity to Navajo Nation homes. - Carlisle Fire Company Update: Chief reported May statistics: 62 fire calls (39 within city), 505 EMS calls (410 within city), average EMS response time 1 minute 31 seconds. Recognized junior member Landon Hill (high school graduate) and two firefighters completing academy. - Downtown Milford Inc. (DMI) Funding for July 3rd Event: Shade Troy (executive director) and Terry Rogers (president) requested financial support for a laser light show on July 3, 2026, to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary. Cost $30,000; DMI committed $15,000. Council discussed a matching proposal from Finance Director Lou Vitola. After questions on weather contingencies and budget impact, council voted to match DMI’s fundraising dollar-for-dollar up to $15,000. - DMI Agreement: City Manager Chris Coleman presented updates to the annual agreement, including performance reviews, insurance requirements, and event limits. Council approved the agreement unanimously. - Special Election Board: Council appointed members and set the special election for Ward 3 on July 25, 2026 (filing deadline July 2). - Resolution 2026-12: Set July 27, 2026 as the date for the Board of Revision and Appeal to hear property tax assessment appeals. Approved unanimously. - Change Orders: (1) Police pole barn roof replacement ($13,219) – approved; (2) Refund to Richard Y. Johnson for building permit fees ($46,000) – approved. - I&I Rehabilitation Contract: Authorized two proposals from a New Castle County contract to rehabilitate 9 sanitary sewer manholes (Phase 1: 5 manholes for $49,403.37; Phase 2: 4 manholes at a separately stated amount). Approved unanimously. - DelDOT Bridge Agreement: Authorized the mayor to sign a letter of agreement for utility relocation (water and electric) as part of replacing bridge BR3-927 on Cedar Beach Road (SR 36). Approved unanimously. - First State Inspection Agency Contract: Renewed on-call building inspection contract for FY27 with no fee increase. Approved unanimously. - Comprehensive Plan Annual Report: Approved for submission to the Office of State Planning Coordination. - Fiscal Year 2026–2027 Budget Adoption: City Manager Coleman and Finance Director Vitola presented the final balanced budget (Version 2). Key features: $68.3 million in operating expenditures, $6.1 million in capital projects. The property tax rate increase was reduced from 2.5 cents to 1 cent per $100 of assessed value. Average residential monthly increase is under $4.25 (including utility adjustments). Police deferred two of three requested positions and a part-time red light camera position; general wage increase reduced from 3% to 2% for non-represented employees. After opening the floor for public comment (none offered), council voted 7-0 to adopt Resolution 2026-13. - Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan (FY27–31): Adopted as a planning document (Resolution 2026-14) with a 7-0 vote. Key Outcomes - CDBG Resolutions (2026-05 through 2026-09): All five resolutions endorsing housing rehabilitation applications for Sussex and Kent Counties were approved unanimously. - Conditional Use Approvals: Three applications (daycare, museum, commercial redevelopment) were all approved with 7-0 votes, including necessary waivers. - FY27 Budget: Adopted with a one-cent property tax increase; total operating budget $68.3 million; capital budget $6.1 million. - DMI Laser Show Support: Council will match DMI’s fundraising dollar-for-dollar up to $15,000 for the July 3rd event. - Special Election Schedule: Ward 3 special election set for July 25, 2026; candidate filing deadline July 2. - Ordinance Introduction: A new conditional use application for an electronic message sign was introduced for future hearing (July 13, 2026). - Public Hearings Closed: All required public hearings were conducted; no opposition testimony was received for any item.

The Tree and Landscape Commission met on May 20, 2026, to discuss multiple tree and landscape management issues in downtown Milford, including the condition of street trees, a new contract arborist, tree inventory software, the removal of invasive Bradford pear trees, and updates on the City Hall Plaza project. The commission also reviewed specific planting beds along the riverwalk and at Memorial Park. Discussion Items - North Walnut Street Downtown Trees and Soil (Median) The commission reviewed the overgrown and poorly performing median on North Walnut Street. Members expressed support for native, drought-tolerant plantings that can withstand salt spray and traffic. They advised against adding a crosswalk through the median due to safety and liability concerns. Suggestions included fragrant sumac (Rhus aromatica) as a low-growing ground cover and other native plants. Commissioners emphasized the need for plants that do not exceed two feet in height and trees that branch above six feet to maintain sight lines and security. The designer will bring options to the next meeting. - North Walnut Street Downtown Trees in Sidewalk The commission discussed widespread issues with street trees, including tree branches scratching windows, roots pushing up brick sidewalks, and frequent pruning needs. Members noted that many trees (e.g., Bradford pears, cherries, willow oaks) were likely the wrong species for the location. Several commissioners advocated for a comprehensive removal and replacement project all at once to minimize disruption and public outcry. They recommended a public education campaign before any removals, possibly including an open house. Lighting on trees was also discussed; the current decorative lights are frequently damaged and expensive to maintain. Uplighting or downlighting LED options were suggested, with the potential for color-changing lights. - Contract Arborist for the City The city has contracted with Brandywine Tree and Shrub, a certified arborist firm based in Wilmington with a local crew. They have already been engaged to remove a dead tree on city property. The city plans to have them prune trees in the Farmers Market area (from Walnut Street to Washington Street) as a trial, with the goal of establishing a yearly contract for ongoing pruning and maintenance. The commission also discussed using tree inventory software (Tree Plotter) to create a database of all city trees. The aim is to hire summer interns to survey and catalog trees, track maintenance, and meet Tree City USA requirements. The software was praised for being user-friendly. - City Hall Plaza Update The City Hall Plaza redesign project (including brick walkways, flagpoles, and plantings) has been shelved after council voted against it due to the $300,000–$400,000 cost. The commission discussed what to do with the existing plantings around the building and the three Bradford pear trees near the Finance building. Given that Bradford pears are invasive and structurally weak, there was consensus to remove them, preferably as part of the larger downtown tree removal project. The group noted that a sudden removal could spark public backlash, so a coordinated plan with public education is necessary. - Anchor Bed and Riverwalk Planting Holly presented two areas needing replanting. The anchor bed downtown had burning bushes removed (cut down and poisoned). The bed gets half-day sun and is near a bench. Suggestions for the anchor bed included a mass planting of shrubby St. John's wort (Hypericum) or fothergilla (witch alder). Along the riverwalk, the parking lot edge needs screening from cars. Commissioners proposed beach plum (salt-tolerant) on the inner edge with switchgrass on the parking lot side, or cherry laurel. There was discussion of using native, salt-tolerant species due to snow and salt runoff. No formal action was taken; Holly will proceed with recommendations. - Memorial Park Planting A shady bed near the new playground was discussed. The bed currently has a low sign and rocks. Commissioners suggested replacing it with shade-tolerant shrubs like oakleaf hydrangea, rhododendron, or summersweet (Clethra). They also considered moving the sign out of the bed to simplify planting. Holly will gather recommendations by email and make a decision. Key Outcomes - The commission agreed to avoid adding a crosswalk through the North Walnut Street median. - The designer will return with new planting concepts for the median at the next meeting. - The contract arborist (Brandywine Tree and Shrub) will begin work on tree removal and pruning in the Farmers Market area. - The city will pursue tree inventory software (Tree Plotter) and seek summer interns to build a comprehensive tree database. - Bradford pear trees at City Hall will be removed as part of the future downtown tree replacement project, with public outreach beforehand. - No formal vote was taken on the anchor bed or Memorial Park plantings; staff will proceed with input from the commission. - The next meeting is scheduled for August 19, 2026. - The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

The Milford Planning Commission held a regular meeting on May 19, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Four commissioners were present: Redden, Salls, Sylvester, and Wright. The meeting included three public hearings for conditional use applications, two new business items for permitted use site plans, a final site plan extension request, and annual officer elections. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar was presented; minutes were skipped due to absence of prior approval. Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment (pre-meeting): No members of the public came forward to speak before the meeting was called to order. - Read Den Play (Conditional Use - Daycare): - Gary Rhodes (164 Marsh Branch Road, Greenwood, DE), general manager of Southern States Milford Cooperative (building owner), spoke in favor, expressing enthusiasm for the daycare concept and noting it would fit well with existing tenants (animal hospital, accountant, window cleaning, beauticians). - Julie Morris (2142 Cedar Beach Road) spoke in favor via Zoom, praising STEM activities but raising concerns about pickup/drop-off logistics and potential future outdoor play area safety on the busy road. The applicant clarified that no outdoor play area is planned for this location. - Milford Historical Society (Conditional Use - Visitor Center): No public comments were made for or against. - MLTJ LLC (Conditional Use - Flex Office/Warehouse): - Zach Brabull (555 South Bay Road, Dover), director of operations for the Kent Economic Partnership, spoke in favor, citing the project's importance for attracting and supporting local businesses and creating jobs. - Julie Morris spoke in opposition via Zoom, arguing that the sidewalk waiver was premature given a 10+ year timeline for DelDOT improvements, that bicycle parking waivers conflicted with city goals, and that landscaping requirements should not be concentrated in one area. She also noted that only one variance was presented at the Board of Adjustment hearing. - New Business (Marijuana Cultivation Facility and Bay Health, Deep Branch Plaza): These items were not public hearings; no public comment was taken. Discussion Items - Public Hearing 1: Ordinance 2026-07 – Read Den Play (Conditional Use - Daycare) - Applicant Jamelia Scott (406 Northeast Fourth Street, Milford) proposed a child care center with before/after school STEM activities in an existing five-tenant commercial space at a 1.9-acre property on Milford Harrington Highway (C3 zoning). No outdoor play area is planned; indoor activities only. The building owner expressed support. Staff confirmed the application met parking and conditional use criteria. Commissioner Redden raised a condition that any future changes to the space or lot would require reapproval. The motion included that condition. - Public Hearing 2: Ordinance 2026-08 – Milford Historical Society (Conditional Use - Visitor Center) - Ralph Pritiman (29 Valley Forge Drive, Milford) and engineer John Roach (22184 Melson Road, Georgetown) presented plans for a 2,000 sq ft visitor center at the Parson Thorne Mansion (R3 zoning). They sought a curb waiver for grass parking areas (building would have bollards and curbing). Staff noted that five variances had been approved by the Board of Adjustment. The site is well-drained; stormwater will be reviewed by the Conservation District. Parking will remain on grass except for a small stabilized area near the building. The commission separated the waiver from the conditional use vote. - Public Hearing 3: Ordinance 2026-09 – MLTJ LLC (Conditional Use - Flex Office/Warehouse) - Engineer Alan Dector (18072 Davidson Drive, Milton, DE) described redeveloping a 3-acre site at 250 N. Rehoboth Boulevard (C3 zoning) into 10 flex office/warehouse units (total 29,000 sq ft). Three waivers were requested: (1) upright curb waiver (to allow sheet flow drainage around garage doors), (2) sidewalk waiver (will pay $5,500 fee-in-lieu to DelDOT for future pedestrian improvements), and (3) bicycle parking waiver (due to industrial nature). Staff noted the property is surrounded by commercial/industrial uses. The commission debated the bicycle parking waiver; Commissioner Sylvester argued it was an overreach, while others cited city comprehensive plan goals. - New Business: Marijuana Cultivation Facility (PSP-271-2026, 196 & 188 Mullet Run Street) - Dave Heatwall (SiteWorks Engineering) and applicant Amar Kalindi (Middletown, DE) presented a preliminary site plan for a permitted marijuana cultivation facility in the BP Business Park. The site includes two existing buildings (one occupied by Assurance Media) and a new 7,500 sq ft building. Two waivers: upright curbing (existing parking lot has no curbing, drainage flows to storm basins) and bicycle parking (no existing bike facilities in the business park). Commissioners questioned whether bicycle parking should be required; the motion to waive bicycle parking failed 2-2 (Commissioners Sylvester and Salls in favor of waiver; Redden and Wright opposed), so bicycle parking will be required. The curb waiver passed 4-0. - New Business: Bay Health Sussex Health Campus Medical Office Building (PSP-271-2026) - John Folkowski (Becker Morgan Group), Mitchell Breeze (Bay Health), and Justin Istonese (Anchor Health Properties) presented an 86,200 sq ft, four-story medical office building on the Sussex Health Campus (IS zoning). Two waivers: (1) upright curb waiver in two small areas near the traffic circle and an existing drive aisle (to preserve existing sidewalk and drainage), and (2) 20% parking reduction (providing 354 spaces instead of 431 required, with a 77-space reserve area to be built if needed within six months of city notice). The commission expressed concerns about enforcement but noted similar waivers had been granted on this campus without issues. Both waivers and the site plan were approved. - Authorization: Deep Branch Plaza Final Site Plan Extension 6 - Ryan Mitchell (14220 Pepper Box Road, Delmar) representing Windward Milford LLC requested a one-year extension (through May 2027) for the final site plan approval of a shopping center (originally approved May 2020). The project has faced delays due to COVID and market conditions. The applicant noted significant infrastructure investments (DelDOT entrance, water/sewer, stormwater) and ongoing discussions with a medical user. The property is listed for sale. Staff confirmed up to one-year extensions are permitted without limit. Commissioner Sylvester voted against, citing five prior extensions and suggesting the applicant should restart the process. The motion carried 3-1. Key Outcomes - Public Hearing 1 – Read Den Play (Daycare): Motion to recommend approval of the conditional use (Ordinance 2026-07) carried 4-0, with condition that any changes to the space or lot require reapproval for noise mitigation and safety. - Public Hearing 2 – Milford Historical Society: - Motion to recommend approval of the curb waiver carried 4-0. - Motion to recommend approval of the conditional use (Ordinance 2026-08) carried 4-0. - Public Hearing 3 – MLTJ LLC (Flex Office/Warehouse): - Motion to recommend approval of the upright curb waiver carried 4-0. - Motion to recommend approval of the sidewalk waiver (fee-in-lieu to DelDOT) carried 3-1 (Commissioner Sylvester opposed, citing lack of timeline from DelDOT). - Motion to recommend denial of the bicycle parking waiver (i.e., requiring bike parking) carried 3-1 (Commissioner Sylvester voted against denial, in favor of the waiver). - Motion to recommend approval of the conditional use (Ordinance 2026-09) carried 4-0. - New Business – Marijuana Cultivation Facility: - Motion to approve waiver of bicycle parking facilities failed 2-2 (tie, so waiver not granted; bicycle parking will be required). - Motion to approve upright curb waiver carried 4-0. - Motion to approve the preliminary site plan (with approved waivers) carried 4-0. - New Business – Bay Health Medical Office Building: - Motion to approve upright curb waiver carried 4-0. - Motion to approve 20% parking reduction (with reserve area condition) carried 4-0. - Motion to approve the preliminary site plan carried 4-0. - Deep Branch Plaza Extension: Motion to approve the sixth one-year extension (through May 2027) carried 3-1 (Commissioner Sylvester dissented). - Annual Elections: - Chairperson: Ian Wright re-elected (3-0, Commissioner Wright abstained). - Vice Chairperson: Commissioner Redden elected (3-0, Commissioner Wrigh abstained). - Secretary: Commissioner Sylvester elected (3-0). - Adjournment: Motion carried 4-0.