Milford City Council March 23 Meeting

The Milford City Council met March 23, hearing resident concerns about group homes while approving infrastructure projects and two ordinances following public hearings. (Photo courtesy of Milford City Council.)

The Milford City Council met March 23, with residents voicing concerns about group homes, council approving multiple infrastructure items, and two public hearings resulting in approvals.

Residents raise concerns about group homes

Several residents spoke during public comment about the impact of group homes and recovery housing in residential neighborhoods.

Bob Starkey raised concerns about the number of unrelated individuals allowed in a single home, describing instances where four-bedroom houses are converted to accommodate up to 10 people. He said the trend could affect property values and alter the character of neighborhoods, urging council to consider occupancy limits.

Sue Harris voiced support for recovery homes but encouraged the city to follow established standards, including those outlined in House Bill 114 and by the First State Alliance of Recovery Residences. She highlighted the importance of safety, infrastructure and adequate living space for residents.

Nina Pletcher pointed to a growing concentration of group homes in Ward Two, asking the city to ensure that no single neighborhood bears a disproportionate share. She also called for transparency and proactive planning.

In a letter read into the record, Dave Pickrell expressed support for recovery efforts but emphasized the need for balance with neighborhood stability. He suggested creating a registry of recovery housing properties and setting occupancy limits based on property size.

Community members highlight other concerns, feedback

Rex Shea introduced Refuge Church and its mission to support individuals in recovery, noting efforts to engage more directly with the community.

Kim Wells thanked city staff for a quick response to a pothole issue, but also suggested creating a city outage map to better inform residents of service disruptions and improve transparency.

Council also shared positive feedback from residents, including praise for the city’s response to power outages and snow and ice removal efforts.

Ordinance 2026.02 approved for North Rehoboth Boulevard property

Council held a public hearing on Ordinance 2026.02, a conditional use site plan for a property on North Rehoboth Boulevard.

The applicant, CCGTL Properties, LLC, proposed adding a fourth tenant space and making minor parking lot modifications. The Planning Commission had recommended approval, including waiver requests.

During discussion, council confirmed the project meets required off-street parking standards. Questions were also raised about traffic flow and left turns onto North Rehoboth Boulevard, though no roadway modifications are required.

After discussion, council approved the ordinance with one member absent.

Ordinance 2026.03 approved for short-term rental

A second public hearing was held for Ordinance 2026.03, a conditional use request for a short-term rental on Cause Avenue.

The property, currently a single-family home in the central business district, is not explicitly permitted for short-term rental use under current zoning, requiring conditional approval.

Council discussed potential impacts on the neighborhood and property values before voting to approve the application.

Customer service report highlights growth, improvements

The city’s annual customer service report highlighted an increase in tax parcels and electric accounts, along with a continued goal of reducing payment plans.

Staff outlined ongoing efforts to improve service, including a transition from a call tree system to a call queue to help residents reach a live representative more quickly.

Council members noted they frequently hear positive feedback from residents about the department.

Riverwalk Freedom Festival alcohol waiver approved

Council approved a request to allow alcohol service during the Riverwalk Freedom Festival, planned within a confined area from noon until 10 p.m.

Well redevelopment project moves forward

Council authorized redevelopment work on Wells 2, 5R and 13, which are still operational but showing decreased performance. The project will refurbish the wells to maintain reliability.

Riverwalk repair option selected

Council also approved moving forward with a preferred option to repair a damaged section of the Riverwalk.

The area has remained closed since a major snow and rain event caused a sinkhole and compromised sections of concrete. Of three options presented, council selected a hybrid sheet pile wall design, citing aesthetics and long-term benefits.

Subdivision resolutions approved

Council approved Resolution 2026-02, accepting infrastructure for Phases 1B and 1C of Simpson’s Crossing, including water, sewer and roadways, and releasing the performance bond.

Resolution 2026-03, related to Lighthouse Estates Phase 2, was also approved with corrected language following an earlier approval.

Council discusses zoning for group homes

Council held a discussion on Chapter 230 zoning regulations related to group homes and recovery houses.

Staff reviewed updates made under Ordinance 2023-28, which defined different types of group homes and outlined where they are permitted.

Council also discussed Delaware code and potential future changes, including whether to require rental licensing for rehabilitation and mental health group homes.