Talks turn heated
as members
disagree on issues

Milford Chronicle

MILFORD — Council members traded barbs with one another several times at its Monday meeting, but most heatedly over whether to debate a vote taken during a Sept. 22 meeting.

At that session, council voted 4 to 3 in favor of granting a conditional-use permit for plans to build a Royal Farms convenience store at the intersection of Del. 1 and North West 10th street.

Council approval was needed for the convenience store because, according to Milford’s zoning ordinance, gas pumps require special city approval.

The favorable vote meant that developer Dennis Silicato could proceed with plans before he returns to the city for approval of a final site plan for the project.

Meanwhile, 1st Ward Councilman Michael Spillane asked Tim Willard, the city’s attorney, to research whether the vote is legal since Mr. Spillane is debating the language of the law: are gas pumps a service station?

Mr. Spillane argued that Milford’s laws forbid a service station within 500 feet of school property, but those who favor the project say the pumps are not an additional risk, citing nearby Valero and Wawa pumps.

"The root of the issue is the councilman seems to be appealing the council’s action," said David Baird, city manager.

"The approach you’re taking by trying to open debate seems you are trying to undo the decision."

Third Ward Councilman Douglas Morrow urged council to not revisit the matter.

"We took a vote. I think it’s done. He disagrees, but that’s why we vote," Councilman Morrow said.

"I have no interest in discussing it any more."

But 1st Ward Councilman John Workman addressed another issue surrounding the controversial project.

"We voted on a gas station. Their site plans had a car wash and that wasn’t in the original site plan," Councilman Workman said.

While Mr. Willard cited cases from Michigan and from New Castle County to argue that the Sept. 22 vote was valid, he asked for time to review the record before he offered an opinion on the proposed car wash.

Fourth Ward Councilman James Starling echoed Councilman Morrow’s sentiments.

"It’s time to move on. We will fix the loopholes," he said.

Third Ward Councilman Owen S. Brooks Jr. had other concerns.

"They just don’t care. Nobody cares about the kids," he said.

"I still want a light at 10th Street."

• Council honored Milford Parks and Recreation Department director Gary L. Emory for 30 years of service to the city.

• City manager David Baird said he expects the Oct. 27 council meeting to be held in the newly refurbished Milford City Hall.

Dedication ceremonies will be held in November or early December.

Mayor Dan Marabello appointed a committee to decide how the lower level of the building will be used.

Members of the committee are Councilman Workman, Councilwoman Wilson, Councilman Spillane and Mayor Spillane.

• City inspectors continue to monitor efforts to demolish a portion of a home at the corner of North West Front and Church streets.

Dan Bond, the owner, will hire a structural engineer to assist in the project so that demolition of one half of the building does not destroy the owner-occupied other side.

The Bonds will also install a chain-link fence around the site.

"Would you ask them to clean out the debris and take that toilet off the second floor. That’s an eyesore," said Councilman Workman.

• Milford will hire an engineering firm to determine if the city-owned Washington Street bridge can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced.

City engineer Mark Mallamo said the bridge is showing signs of wear and will need an additional inspection.

The city may be able to get matching funds for the project.

• Three people spoke during the 15-minute public comment session.

• The city reviewed a new subdivision code that was initially introduced in July 28.

The discussion launched another heated debate over topsoil.

Councilman Spillane wanted a definition of topsoil included in the ordinance as well as in the specifications for contractors.

"I’d argue just the opposite," said Mr. Baird.

"We have engineers and city managers in place. We have to trust them enough," said Councilwoman Wilson.

"I am not here to put a blame. It doesn’t spell out what topsoil is in detail," said Councilman Spillane.

• Council heard a proposed law governing rental properties. Landlords would have to pay $75 per unit for a license.

If the landlord does not live in the area, he or see would require a local contact living within a 10-mile radius of the city.

• Council granted a one-year extension to developers planning a project called The Homestead located on the Fry property at Del. 14 and Canterbury Road.

The project for the 186 acres was sold to Bolis Properties in August.

Originally started in 2006, it includes 40 acres designed for commercial development.