Milford City Council July 13 Meeting

The Milford City Council approved an electronic message center sign for Beach Babies daycare during its July 13 meeting and recognized the Milford Police Department for reaching 365 consecutive days without a firearm homicide. (Photo courtesy of Milford City Council.)

The Milford City Council approved a conditional use application for an electronic message center sign at Beach Babies daycare during its July 13 meeting, despite concerns from one council member and a nearby property owner about the proposed sign’s height.

Council members also recognized the Milford Police Department for reaching 365 consecutive days without a firearm homicide, while department heads provided updates on development, infrastructure, employee initiatives and city finances.

Council approves Beach Babies electronic sign

The council held a public hearing on Ordinance 2026-10, a conditional use application submitted by Beach Babies daycare seeking approval for a freestanding electronic message center sign at its property in the R-3 Garden Apartment and Townhouse District.

City Solicitor David Rutt explained the public hearing process, noting that the council’s role was legislative and that members would consider the Planning Commission’s recommendation before making a decision.

The Planning Commission had previously recommended approval of the request.

Representing the applicant, Eric Wall said the proposal involved an accessory sign for an existing daycare that has operated on the property since at least July 2019. He explained the proposed sign would stand approximately 9.83 feet tall.

During public comment, nearby resident Julie Morris expressed concerns that the sign was taller than others in the area and questioned whether the application documents clearly reflected the requested height. She also said she was concerned about how approving the sign could affect future development in the neighborhood.

After closing the public hearing, council members discussed whether the proposal met city code and whether the sign’s height was appropriate.

Several members said the application complied with the city’s regulations and supported approving the request, while others questioned whether a shorter sign would have been more suitable.

The council ultimately approved the conditional use application by a 5-1 vote. Perez cast the lone dissenting vote, citing concerns about the height of the proposed sign.

Police department marks milestone

Chief Ashe presented the department’s monthly report, highlighting that Milford has gone 365 consecutive days without a firearm homicide.

The chief credited the milestone to proactive investigations, targeted enforcement efforts and community policing initiatives. He also thanked officers for their work and recognized Councilwoman Zychal for participating in a Group Violence Intervention call-in.

Council members praised the department’s efforts and acknowledged the significance of reducing gun violence in the community.

The council unanimously accepted the police report.

Department reports highlight city activity

City Clerk Katrina White highlighted several upcoming community events, including the Milford Area Chamber of Commerce 5K, Word of Life’s “Take It to the Streets” event and the Milford Public Library’s Music in the Park series.

City Manager Mark Whitfield highlighted the success of the city’s employee appreciation event and encouraged employees to participate in volunteer opportunities with the Food Bank of Delaware. He also recognized city employees who participated in the Special Olympics Torch Run, noting every city department was represented.

Public Works officials discussed the city’s distributed lead service line notification letters and the 2026 Water Quality Report, with Steve Ellingsworth providing additional background and answering questions from council.

The Electric Department reported on a recent 10-day Lunch & Learn program and meetings focused on preparing for extreme heat and related operational procedures.

Planning and Zoning officials reported issuing 146 new residential construction permits during the first half of 2025. Staff also said one site plan is scheduled for Planning Commission review later this month.

Parks and Recreation announced the department welcomed its second-ever intern, Jacob Welch, on May 18. Officials said Welch has already made a significant impact by helping expand the department’s online presence.

Human Resources announced an upcoming employee workshop in August focused on personal budgeting and financial literacy titled “Where Is Your Money Going?”

Economic Development and Community Engagement staff reported continued progress on the Milford Corporate Center, noting the city has received additional assistance from DelDOT that will allow Emory Hill to market more than 75% of Phase 1.

The Information Technology Department provided an update on the Tyler payroll project, reporting Delaware’s Family and Medical Leave Act reporting component has been completed. Staff also highlighted a successful Microsoft Excel Lunch & Learn session and the launch of a statewide AI user group with 29 participants.

Finance officials reported utility collections rebounded from the previous month and expressed optimism about closing out the fiscal year on a strong note.

The council approved all departmental reports.

Finance report

Finance staff reported cash and investments decreased by approximately $1.5 million during the month, noting the decline is typical for this time of year.

Officials said the city’s general fund operating cash remains strong and stable, while the electric and sewer funds experienced some expected cash draws. Inventory increased in the electric fund and accounts payable declined.

The council approved the monthly finance report.

Carlisle Fire Company update

Carlisle Fire Company reported responding to 67 fire incidents in June, including 40 within Milford city limits and 27 outside the city. Of those calls, 22 occurred in Sussex County and 45 in Kent County.

The department also responded to 510 EMS calls during the month.

Officials said the company has implemented a three-crew summer staffing plan that has been working well and announced renovations have begun at its main EMS campus.