Milford City Council March 2 Meeting

Milford City Council approved a heated downtown restroom, Milford Corporate Center change orders and related development agreements at its March 2 meeting. (Photo courtesy of Milford City Council.)

Milford City Council moved forward on several infrastructure and development initiatives during its recent meeting, including approval of a heated downtown restroom facility, construction change orders for the Milford Corporate Center, and agreements tied to future commercial development.

Agenda Approval and Acknowledgments

The meeting opened with a roll call noting the absence of Lori and Katrina Wilson. The agenda and previous meeting minutes were approved unanimously.

Council members thanked city staff for their work clearing roads and restoring electric service during recent storms.

The Milford Police Department was recognized for its support in emergency preparedness. The police report, city clerk’s report and city manager’s report — including department head updates — were accepted.

Council also acknowledged the contributions of African Americans during Black History Month.

Financial Update

December financials were presented, reflecting significant cash draws and spending from reserves and restricted funds. However, more than $100,000 in investment earnings, along with strong realty transfer tax receipts and impact fee collections, helped offset expenditures. The monthly financial report was accepted.

An update was also provided on the activities of the Carlisle Fire Company, including fire and EMS responses and ongoing projects.

Election Board and Advisory Council Appointments

Council approved the appointment of Karen Boone, Carlene Wilson and Donna Merchant to serve on the Board of Elections for the 2025 election.

Jason Peel was appointed to the Tree Preservation Advisory Council, with council approval.

Downtown Restroom Project Moves Forward

Council reviewed a proposal for a new downtown restroom facility supported by funding from the Federal Highway Administration and a T-Mobile Hometown Grant.

Discussion centered on whether to construct a four-unit or three-unit facility. Considerations included heating, maintenance costs and year-round functionality. Several members expressed support for a three-unit, heated option, noting it would allow for use during colder months and special events such as the Holiday Stroll.

Concerns were raised about cleanup frequency, extended hours and the possibility of individuals using the heated space for shelter during winter months. Officials noted proposed operating hours of 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., with flexibility to explore on-call cleaning services if hours are extended. Police patrols were identified as a key component of monitoring the facility.

Council also discussed pursuing grant funding for security cameras to enhance safety.

A motion to move forward with the heated three-unit option passed, with two members opposed.

Milford Corporate Center Change Orders Approved

Council authorized the mayor to execute Change Order No. 1 with George & Lynch, Inc. in the amount of $693,515 for installation of electric conduit at the Milford Corporate Center, funded through Electric Impact Fees.

Change Order No. 2, in the amount of $200,255, was also approved for additional milling and overlay work on Canterbury Road. Funding will come from Realty Transfer Tax reserves and is expected to be reimbursed by the State of Delaware through the Transportation Infrastructure Investment Fund.

Both motions passed.

Additional Work Authorizations and Development Agreements

Council approved Work Authorization No. 3, not to exceed $25,000, and Work Authorization No. 4, not to exceed $20,000, utilizing Realty Transfer Tax reserves.

Members also authorized the city to enter into a Transportation Improvement District infrastructure recoupment agreement with the Delaware Department of Transportation for the Dollar General Deep Branch Plaza development, allowing the project to move forward.

Police Storage Building Project

Council approved a re-bid proposal for a new Milford Police storage building. Next steps include executing AIA contracts, submitting permit applications and beginning the submittal process. Construction is targeted to begin in late March 2026, with estimated completion in December 2026.