Kent County LEVY COURT Serving Kent County with Pride Community Newsletter & Parks, Recreation and Library Activity Guide

Summer 2020

@KCLevyCourt About the LEVY COURT Levy Court is your County government. Kent County Levy Court nications; emergency management; approving sewer system is comprised of seven elected Commissioners: six are elected construction; establishing the yearly tax rate; appointing de- from the districts in which they reside, and the seventh elect- partment heads and overseeing the county departments that ed at-large to represent the entire county. The Commissioners support the mission of Levy Court. The Commissioners appoint serve at the will of the electorate and answer solely to their con- a County Administrator who is responsible for managing the stituents. Since the Commissioners are elected officials, it is cus- day-to-day operations of county government. tomary to refer to them with the designation of Honorable. Levy Court offices are located at 555 Bay Road. Residents may Levy Court responsibilities include: enacting planning and land call 744-2300 to reach a County Office. use ordinances; providing parks and recreation facilities; estab- For more information on Levy Court, please visit our website at lishing fees; providing emergency medical services; 911 commu- www.co.kent.de.us.

HON. P. BROOKS BANTA HON. TERRY L. PEPPER HON. ALLAN F. ANGEL HON. ERIC L. BUCKSON President Vice President At-Large Commissioner 3rd District Commissioner 4th District 1st District Committee: Committee: Committee: 302-242-2572 Public Safety Administration Planning Services 302-531-8803 302-382-6735 302-943-2832

HON. JODY SWEENEY HON. GLEN M. HOWELL HON. JEFFREY W. HALL MICHAEL J. Commissioner 5th District Commissioner 6th District Commissioner 2nd District PETIT DE MANGE, AICP Committee: Committee: Committee: County Administrator Community Services/ Public Works Finance 302-744-2305 Information Technology 302-531-8832 302-632-0757 302-943-7328 About the ROW OFFICES Kent County has four Row Officers: each of which is an elected Row Officers are held accountable to the electorate and it is official. Row Officers serve four year terms and each is empow- customary to refer to them with the designation of Honorable. ered to manage their office. Each row office performs a distinct These offices are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. function within the County Government. to 5:00 P.M. REGISTER OF WILLS: RECORDER OF DEEDS: SHERIFF: Hon. Harold K. Brode Hon. Betty Lou McKenna Hon. Brian E. Lewis [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] (302) 744-2330 (302) 744-2321 (302) 736-2161

Chief Deputy - Dianne M. Rager CLERK OF THE PEACE: Chief Deputy - Chris White [email protected] Hon. Brenda Wootten [email protected] (302) 744-2328 [email protected] (302) 736-2161 (302) 744-2346 Deputy - Jason Mollohan [email protected] Deputy - Patricia A. Brown (302) 744-2327 [email protected]

2 Kent County Levy Court | Summer 2020 Kent County PHONE DIRECTORY Kent County Administrative Complex Kent County Emergency Services Building 555 Bay Road, Dover, DE 19901 911 Public Safety Blvd., Dover, DE 19901 Levy Court 744-2305 Emergency Communications 735-2200 Assessment Office 744-2401 Emergency Management 735-3465 Building Permits & Inspections 744-2451 Emergency Medical Services 735-2180 Code Enforcement 744-2452 Community Development 744-2480 Kent County Library Economic Development 678-3028 497 South Red Haven Lane, Dover, DE 19901 Engineering 744-2430 Library Services 744-1919 Facilities Management 744-2357 Finance 744-2386 Kent County Parks and Recreation Tax Section 744-2341 1683 New Burton Road, Dover, DE 19904 GIS/Mapping 744-2416 Main Number 744-2495 Information Technology 744-2365 Parks & Recreation 744-2495 Kent County Wastewater Treatment Plant Personnel 744-2310 139 Milford Neck Road, Milford, DE 19963 Planning 744-2471 Wastewater Facilities 335-6000 A Dedicated Telephone Number and Email Established for Inspections and Enforcement Department Building and Code Inspection activities necessitates Kent Any plans, permit applications or documents can be left County Planning Services to dedicated a telephone num- in the paramedics truck parked in front of the County ber and email address for violations and complaints. Administrative Complex. The truck is checked several times a day, and correspondence is immediately deliv- The Telephone number is: 302-744-1913, and email ad- ered directly to the various Departments in which they dress is: [email protected]. are intended.

Coronavirus Bought More Time to Complete the 2020 Census The Coronavirus crisis may have set back many Kent County Census activities. But the good news is, there’s more time to participate! The Census deadline has been extended to October 31, 2020. That means, Kent County has more time to do even better! It takes about 6 minutes to answer 10 ques- tions. Make sure you fill out your 2020 Census online atmy2020census.gov or by phone at 1-844-330-2020. We’re counting on you!

Summer 2020 | Kent County Levy Court 3 Kent County Building Inspectors Remain Active AMID CORONIVIRUS CRISIS It was just before noon on Thursday, One of the effects of the coronavirus, April 23, and by that time, Kent County stay at home orders, and social dis- Building Inspector Paul Modesto, was tancing is the way people exchange in- on his 5th building inspection for the formation. Keeping things going could day with several more to go. His day entail a number of adjustments to the began at the office where he checks way business is transacted while be- his emails and telephone messages ing aware of what’s happening in the from the day before, then he plots his world and making adjustments to em- path for the day ahead. Once Building ploy safety techniques. Inspectors hit the road, they don’t return until the next day. To limit exposure, at times, Inspectors can handle matters over the telephone On this particular day, Modesto had a or via email; other times they may need combination of at least nine inspec- to set a limit to the number of people Building Inspector Paul Modesto tions and re-inspections and his three coming into and out of a house. “In inspects. other colleagues Steve Hastings, Bruce some cases, we’ll contact a homeown- Slody, and Dan Twardus had schedules er to let them know what we’re looking into the building for staff without too that were about the same. Kent Coun- for and we can exchange information much interruption to the flow of daily ty spans across 798 square miles: from electronically.” And, for the time being, business. For those who have corre- Smyrna to Milford north to south and Kent County is not charging fees for spondence and paperwork for any of from the Delaware Bay to the Maryland expired permits. Kent County Departments, including line, east to west. For four inspectors, Public one could spend over an hour in trav- Communication and social distancing Works, Office of Deeds, Register of el time depending on where he needs are two human traits that puts a strain Wills, the Clerk of the Peace, and Sher- to go; and, while we’re in the midst of on us all. “The biggest problem is that iff’s Office, a vehicle is parked in front the coronavirus pandemic, houses are people want to talk”, Modesto added. of the entrance to the County Complex being built, and Kent County is still in- “If Kent County was to shut down con- to leave an exchange. To contact Kent specting their progress. struction we would not have enough County Building Inspections, the num- “We’re trying to keep things as nor- staff to keep up once we reopen.” ber is 302-744-2451 and of course, the mal as possible,” said Modesto. “We’re Early-on Kent County established a main telephone number to the Kent aware of permit time limits, and we means for the public to get permit ap- County Complex is, 302-744-2300 if have to keep them going.” plications, plans, and other documents additional information is necessary. KENT COUNTY LEVY COURT ESTABLISHES A COVID-19 BUSINESS RELIEF FUND Dover, Del. — What grew out of a re- grants to qualified Small Businesses faith based organizations, pawn shops, quest for assistance from the Central not to exceed $500 per applicant. The adult entertainment stores and real es- Delaware Chamber of Commerce to request moved forward for a vote at tate businesses. help businesses acquire Personal Pro- the May 12, Business Meeting. All Com- To apply, complete and submit an ap- tective Equipment and cleaning sup- missioners agreed that establishing plication, a vendor form, complete plies, became the establishment of the Covid-19 Relief Fund is a step in a W-9, and a valid business license and the Covid-19 Business Relief Fund. At positive direction. submit to: the May 12, 2020 Combined Business To qualify, businesses must be located and Committee Meetings, Levy Court in Kent County; hold a valid business Kent County COVID Fund Commissioners voted in solidarity to license, must have been in business for c/o Kent Economic Partnership 555 establish the Fund that would help at least one year; with a maximum of Bay Road small business owners as they re-open 20 employees; and the funds can not Dover, DE 19901 their businesses. be used to pay debts incurred before Forms can be found at these links: Initiated at the May 8 Committee March 17, 2020. Other exclusions to Application and vendor form: Meetings, Commissioner Eric Buck- grant funds are real estate and vehicle purchases. http://www.co.kent.de.us/ son asked his colleagues to consider media/989448/COVID-19-Business- allocating $50,000 of which $18,000 Businesses that are not covered under Relief-Fund-fillable-form.pdf would cover Kent County’s contribu- the grant include: any essential busi- tion toward the Chamber’s Back to ness which was open during the State W-9 Business Start Up Kits request. The of Emergency; Franchises and national If you already have a W-9 with us, remaining balance would go to the chain stores/restaurants; Home-based you may provide that. If not, use this newly established Covid-19 Business businesses, internet-based business- form: Relief Fund divided equally among es, and virtual businesses; and, pay- http://www.co.kent.de.us/ the six Levy Court Districts to award day loan businesses, tobacco stores, media/989463/W-9.pdf

4 Kent County Levy Court | Summer 2020 Kent County Levy Court Administrative Complex Reopened to the Public: Visitors Are Encouraged to Make Appointments Dover, Del. — Kent County began a buildings and we have secured quan- ing, especially for the Tax Department. graduated reopening of County facil- tities of PPE and other supplies that Application deadlines for the School ities to the public, June 1 in confor- are essential to a safe, sanitary and Property Tax Credit and the Senior mance with Federal and State Guide- successful reopening.” From deep and Disability Tax Exemption have lines. cleaning -work stations, restrooms, en- been extended to June 1 and June 15 The reopening guidelines came with trances, customer counters, - to strip- respectively. The Finance Department assurances that County facilities are ping and waxing floors, custodial staff will also be preparing for the County’s clean and well maintained, activities in have been preparing for the reopening new Fiscal Year and tax season. Resi- county facilities are appropriate, and since the closure of County facilities dents paying their tax and sewer bills measures are in place to avoid com- in late-March. As the new norm takes are encouraged to continue to use the munity spread. “The team, headed up shape, it’s for sure that deep cleaning drop box located at the south end of by County Administrator, worked non- activities will continue along with the the visitors parking lot of the Kent stop in preparation for reopening our nightly cleaning and sanitation to the County Complex. buildings”, said Levy Court President P. grounds to keep Kent County facilities Meanwhile, the Community Services Brooks Banta. sanitary. Department under which Parks, Parks Kent County Administrator, Michael Face coverings are standard equip- and Recreation and the Public Library Petit de Mange attests to that and ment for both the public and employ- fall, will have similar opening criteria. scrupulously worked toward making ees for now. Upon arrival to work, each At the parks, full-time staff will return the Kent County environment safe employee’s temperature will be taken to work in staggered shifts. Kesselring while maintaining quality service to with No Touch Thermometers. Park will be open to limited low occu- the community. Employees whose temperature regis- pancy uses, limiting groups to no more than ten (10) people. “As we emerge from the State of Emer- ters above 99.5 degrees shall be sent gency and reopen County Facilities, home. Along with thermometers, the All other parks will remain open to lim- our primary focus will be on the health, County purchased masks, gloves and ited public use of trails, fields, passive safety, and wellness of our Employees hand sanitizer for personnel use. Em- recreation and parking areas. Play- and our Visitors. We’ll be instituting ployees with compromised health and grounds, Pavilions, and restrooms will several measures and physical chang- weakened immune systems are al- remain closed. Face coverings are es in buildings to manage the number lowed to work remotely from home; required for staff and visitors and are and flow of people and to promote others may work alternating days requested on trails. social distancing and hand sanitation”, upon the Department’s discretion. At the Kent County Public Library, staff he said. The popular vehicle Drop Box remains will return to work while the library re- For starters, visitors are encouraged to in-tact, at least for a while, for Depart- mains closed to the public. ment drop-offs. Mr. Petit de Mange schedule an appointment prior to their continued on page 7 visit. Entrances and exits have been stated, “Since closing Facilities to Pub- separated. For sanitary and safety pur- lic Access, the County has continued poses, doors throughout the Complex to meet all of its core business func- are equipped with hand sanitizer stations and obligations”, “Initially, several tions and chimes have been placed at offices will provide services on an Ap- doorway entrances in key locations to pointment basis, and group meetings Kent County help employees know someone is ei- will be held to ten (10) or fewer people Levy Court ther entering or exiting the building. at a time with physical distancing to be observed at all times.” Congratulates Floor decals have been added so that the Class of social distancing at customer counters While the building hours of operation will remain from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 2020 on your can be maintained, as well as, clear di- well deserved rectional signage installed to assist vis- p.m., Security Guards will manage the itors moving within the buildings. public entrance greeting, screening success! and maintaining the customer waiting A new Customer Service Station has area while visitors wait to be escorted been added on the First Floor, and to their business or meeting location. Plexiglas Shields are now installed at customer counters. “We have attempted to satisfy all of our constituents concerns and have a Also, there are now designated “Em- dedicated staff on hand every day to ployee Only” areas that are cordoned be available by phone to address any off to separate public from non-public other concerns that the public may spaces. have” President Banta said. One of the “We have also taken this time to dou- busiest seasons for the County occurs ble-down on deep cleaning of our right around the time of the reopen-

Summer 2020 | Kent County Levy Court 5 Employees of the Month WARREN F. COLLINS JANUARY 2020 Warren joined Kent County in August shares stories about his children and grandchildren. 2015 and serves as a Computer Support According to Director of Information Technology Kim Technician I in the Information Technol- Crouch, “Warren should be recognized for his outstanding ogy Office. work on the Recorder of Deeds hardware and software His primary duties are to respond and replacement project this past summer. troubleshoot I.T. Help Desk calls; obtain As the project leader, Warren managed the orders for all quotes for technology equipment; place the hardware and software and coordinated the hardware technology supply orders for the Coun- configuration with fellow co-workers and the software ty, and oversee the video surveillance vendor. He led the team on a weekend to deploy the hard- and badging systems. Warren is the first Department of ware and verify the system was operational. The Recorder line of support for those systems. Administration of Deeds office was up and running the next business day.” Co-workers describe Warren as very Congratulations Warren on a job well done! knowledgeable in the technology field and always willing to help solve any Warren resides in Commissioner Banta’s and Pepper’s dis- problems which arise. He is a family man and frequently tricts.

ROBERT L. WATTS FEBRUARY 2020 Robbie has worked for Kent County demanding and challenging situations. since October 2002 and now serves as Today, his co-workers say the same, adding that he is al- the Operations Support Officer in the ways willing to tackle new projects and will get the job Emergency Communications Division. done. His primary duties include maintaining the computer aided dispatch (CAD) “Robbie spends countless hours trying to find ways to im- system channels the proper dispatch prove our delivery of 911 services to the public, says Assis- responses for fire services, ambulance tant Director of Public Safety Kevin Sipple. He oversees the services and paramedics of Kent Coun- newly created Drone program; oversees and manages the ty; training all new dispatch employees Tyler Computer Aided Dispatch, Fire Records and Mobile Department of on the computer system, and providing Data Program; and manages the GIS data for all programs Public Safety support for all emergency services and involved with Public Safety. Robbie has also enhanced our related computer systems. outreach programs to include Rave Panic Button, Smart911 and PulsePoint.” Robbie was previously recognized as the February 2013 Employee of the Month when he was a Congratulations Robbie on a job well done! Dispatcher III. At the time, his co-workers said he could be Robbie resides in Commissioner Banta’s and Pepper’s dis- counted on to remain calm and professional in the most tricts.

MICHAEL R. LYNCH MARCH 2020 Mike has worked for Kent County in the According to Director of Public Works Diana Golt, Division of Wastewater Facilities since “Through his hard work and dedication, Mike maintains October 2014. He began his career as a a large section of the County collection and transmission Maintenance Worker and advanced to system and performs a wide array of maintenance duties a Maintenance Mechanic III work team with the assistance of his crew. He has taken every oppor- leadership position in a relatively short tunity to learn new skills and obtain relevant certification period of time. His primary duties include which makes him an exemplary Public Works employee. performing highly skilled mechanical, Mike provides friendly public service whenever he is called pipe fitting and electrical maintenance upon, including stressful situations. He sets an example as and repair tasks, such as instrument a team player and is always willing to jump in and get the Department of calibration. His position requires special job done. Mike is an excellent selection deserving of the Public Works training for welding and brazing of cast honor of being called Employee of the Month.” iron, steel, stainless steel and aluminum. Congratulations Mike on a job well done! Mike also oversees, inspects, repairs and maintains sewage pumping stations, performing a variety Mike resides in Commissioner Buckson’s and Pepper’s dis- of mechanical work assignments. tricts.

6 Kent County Levy Court | Summer 2020 Kent County Levy Court Joins the Boy Scouts of America in the WAR AGAINST THE CORONAVIRUS Stemming from a long standing part- Garden plots, named The Coronavirus So far, the Scouts have received com- nership with the Boys Scouts of Amer- Victory Gardens, are being offered at mitments for seed and plants from ica, Kent County Levy Court joins the the Akridge Scout Reservation, 1910 Clark Seed in Kenton, Willey Farms in battle in the war against the corona- Baden Powell Way, just south of Do- Smyrna, and Rose Valley Greenhouse virus. J. Ray Teat Director of Special ver, for any family in need of space to in Dover. Other donations will not get Projects said, “Today we are in a war grow vegetables for themselves. Plots turned away from anyone else wishing against the coronavirus and the Boy that are 10’ by 20’ in size are being pre- to make a donation. To find out more Scouts are here once again to promote pared to be offered through a lottery about how one can donate or for more family self-reliance. system. Eleven of the 24 plots have information contact the Del-Mar-Va Council by email at [email protected]. Over 10 years ago Kent County Levy already been leased out, but there’s plenty of room to grow Court and the Del-Mar-Va Council of Do A Good Turn Daily is a long promot- the Boys Scouts of America, entered in future years. The plots cost $25 per ed slogan for the Boy Scouts of Amer- into an agreement to purchase three growing season, which runs April 1 ica. Efforts by the Del-Mar-Va Coun- parcels from the Kesselring Family, through the end of November. Garden cil are intended to make the Akridge which would be used for preserving plots are separated from each other property available to neighbors, as the property for recreational and con- with 20’ wide lanes to maintain social well as Scouting families. “We view it servation uses. Other entities in the distancing. as an opportunity to help make fami- agreement include: the Delaware De- Parking, tools, water, seeds and plants lies more self-sufficient in the current partment of Transportation and the are all provided by the Del-Mar-Va atmosphere of economic and food Kent Conservation District to work Council. A team of gardening edu- supply chain uncertainty,” Teat said. in concert with Kent County with re- cators lead by Mike McGrath, retired If growing your own tomatoes, radish- spect to effectively serve the property Chief of Planning, Delaware Depart- es or squash to supplement your home in each party’s respective area. Levy ment of Agriculture in conjunction groceries — and provide a great out- Court Commissioner Jody Sweeney with Agriculture Extension agents door family activity sounds good to said, from the University of Delaware and you, please visit the Coronavirus Vic- “The best ideas in government have Delaware State University will as- tory Gardens webpage at www.dmvc. always stemmed from great partner- sist with online instruction, site visits, org/victorygardens or email Adrienne ships. This partnership to develop the and advice by email, for participating Wrona at [email protected] to get Kesselring Farm into a great location families. your application to join the fight! for kids of all ages and their families is about to take a huge leap forward in continued from page 5 only service that will not be provided showing the concern for families from to the public during the early stages the Boy Scouts and Levy Court during The bookdrop is now available for the of the reopening. With the uncertainty these troubling times.“ return of library materials. Throughout over the future and what it may look In the 1940’s labor and transportation the month of June, fines will not be like, some of the County’s adjustments shortages due to WWII made it hard imposed to library patrons. A curbside may become a part of the new norm; to move fruits and vegetables to mar- pick-up service was phased in June 2 but for now, County Administration ket. During this time nearly 20 million through June 6. Library staff was avail- and Leadership has moved ahead. Americans, encouraged in part by the able Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. scheduling curb- “We look forward to opening our Boy Scouts of America, planted their doors again, welcoming our citizens, own Victory Gardens to supplement side pick-up service, and answering customer inquiries by telephone. and progressing toward a resumption home grocery supplies. They planted of high quality services in the public gardens in backyards, empty lots, and During the State of Emergency Kent interest” said, Petit de Mange. “Stay even city rooftops. Neighbors pooled County maintained all of its services to well and God Bless any family who has their resources, planted different kinds the public with the exception of group lost love ones during this catastrophic of foods, and formed cooperatives. meetings and activities, which is the event,” added President Banta. Now, more than 70 years later the Del- Mar-Va Council of the Boy Scouts of Kent County Administrative Complex Office America revived the Victory Gardens numbers to schedule an appointment with County Departments concept with the Coronavirus Victory Gardens. Tax Office 744-2341 Planning Services 744-2471 Sewer Billing 744-2391 GIS 744-2416 “The Akridge property is somewhat unique in the Scouting world because Finance Department 744-2386 Inspections and of its location in a relatively urban Assessment Office 744-2401 Enforcement 744-2445 neighborhood.” “We are pleased to Clerk of the Peace 744-2346 Public Works 744-2430 be able to offer these garden plots to County Administrator/ Recorder of the citizens of Kent County, both from Levy Court Office 744-2305 Deeds 744-2314 within our Scouting community and from surrounding neighborhoods”, Library 744-1919 Register of Wills 744-2330 said Teat. Parks & Recreation 744-2495 Sheriff’s Office 736-2161

Summer 2020 | Kent County Levy Court 7 TMYK (The More You Know) about Fats, Oil and Grease HELPS PROTECT COSTLY SEWER REPAIRS FOG and its effects on sewer systems is increasingly becoming an alarming concern for municipalities and has always been a concern for operators and owners of wastewater infrastructure. FOG stands for fats, oil and grease associated with cooking, which under any cir- cumstances should not be poured into a drain or flushed into a sewer system. While these contaminants may be- gin as liquid from your residence, they eventually solidify and will cause problems - - if not at your residence, your neighbor’s, a mile down the road or even at your local Wastewater Treatment Facility. Fats, oil and grease can congeal and its effects can be time intensive and costly. Think about making a snow- Thames Water/PA man and the more you roll the snowball in the snow, the A 40-tonne fatberg has been removed from a sewer in more the size increases as it picks up more snow along London. its path. That’s what happens when FOG picks up flush- able wipes and other non-biodegradable materials like The repairs and grease trap replacement caused a signif- diapers, feminine products, prescription medications, icant cost. Kent County has also experienced FOG issues bacteria and almost anything else that has entered the of smaller sizes throughout the years. In 2017, one such sewer system. When this happens, the outcome becomes incident occurred in an older development with lots of what is called a Fatberg. trees. The FOG entered the system through household Fatbergs cause clogs to sewage pipes and sewage over- drains, coagulated around tree roots that had grown into flows, and could go undetected until a problem arises, the sewer system causing numerous problems. The roots which could be a backup onto a property, an odor or and debris and FOG formed a fatberg over time. During damaged pipes. In 2013, a fatberg was discovered in Lon- these types of backups, the FOG adds another challeng- don weighing 17 tons which is about the size of a bus. An- ing aspect to cleaning out sewer laterals and gravity other fatberg in Baltimore, Maryland caused more than sewer and can lead to costly repairs. Diana Golt, Kent 1.2 million gallons of sewage to overflow in September of County Public Works Director, indicates “if residents un- 2017. Just this past April, a fatberg weighing 42 tonnes, derstand the importance of controlling what goes into which equates to 46.2971 US tons, about the size of a the pipes and sewer infrastructure, we can protect the Petrol Tanker, was discovered in Melbourne, Australia. environment and avoid costly repairs due to FOG and This fatberg was blamed primarily on the shortage of toi- other debris.” Fatbergs can take weeks and even months let paper caused by the COVID-19 outbreak. Kent Coun- to remove. ty, Delaware has been fortunate and hasn’t seen fatbergs Just as recycling is important to the environment, so is like any of those mentioned above, but given our current the proper disposal of grease, oils and fat associated situation, it’s important to bring this topic into public with cooking, aka FOG. The best way to dispose of cook- awareness in an effort to avoid this for our community. ing oil and grease is to: Kent County Department of Public Works hasn’t been n Let the oil or grease cool and solidify. without fatbergs, if fact a small fatberg formed in a sew- n Once cool and solid, scrape the grease into a container er lateral from a dining facility. The FOG congealed in the that can be thrown away. sewer lateral and a short run of the gravity sewer pipe. n When your container is full, place it in a plastic bag to prevent leakage and then throw it in the garbage. Not the recycle bin. NEVER put motor oils, grease or gasoline in the sewer. Such hazardous and flammable liquids are prohibited as they disrupt wastewater treatment and harm the environment. Delaware Solid Waste Authority advises when disposing car or truck motor oil, to take the used oil and oil filters to a nearby DSWA Drop-off Center that accepts them. This way, you’ll know you’re helping the environment. To find out where the nearest drop-off center is in your area visit: DSWA maps https://dswa.com/programs/ oil-oil-filters/ Adrian Dennis/AFP/Getty Images But, by all means, do not pour Fat, Oil, or Grease down It’s horribly gross. into the sewer system.

8 Kent County Levy Court | Summer 2020 KENT COUNTY LEVY COURT, COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT

Upcoming Programs and Activities for KENT COUNTY PARKS Recreation, Parks, AND RECREATION and Libraries PHASE TWO OPENING INFORMATION Effective June 15, 2020 l Parks continue to be open l CLOSED Facilities at parks m Playgrounds m Pavilions m Howell Mill Nature Center l REOPENED Facilities at parks m Public Restrooms m Fitness Station m Sand Volleyball Courts m Turf Field (with approval only) l Recreation Center may be opened for pre-registered programs only, no drop-in activities. l Spring recreation programs were issued credits or Summer 2020 refunds or are in process KENT COUNTY l Parks and Recreation office staffed 8 AM to 5 PM PARKS AND RECREATION Monday - Friday & RECREATION CENTER All park patrons are required to abide by Governor 1683 New Burton Road, Carney’s Phase 2 public guidelines which include: proper Dover, DE 19904 social distancing, wearing of cloth face coverings when social distancing is not possible, stay at home if you feel Office Hours: sick, and continue hand washing and use of approved Monday — Friday, sanitizers. 8:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m. Phone: 744-2495 Fax: 744-9681 Email: [email protected] ABOUT THE COVER www.co.kent.de.us/ Photo taken by Kara Okonewski, Park Naturalist. parks-recreation.aspx In the photo: Recreation Programmer, Kaitlyn Schech, leads a group of canoe adventurists along WWW.CO.KENT.DE.US the St. Jones River in Kent County, DE.

Summer 2020 | Kent County Levy Court 9 .1.2 # //00 %$ .350 ' 5- 1.4 ) .1-- "% .3/1 "% ) $$$"$) %"$ ) ) (" ) &" ) &" "" $ &" &" %#$" 666 6 (" % 666 6 "## $# 66 $%"" 66 6 6 " 666 66 ( 66 & 666 $# 666 %$* %"! ## 666 6 " 66666 %$ "" 666 6 $%" $" 6 $ ##" 666 666666 $# 666 6 $ 6 # 6 " 6 # " 6 $! 6 "$ $" 6

Big Oak County Park 417 Big Oak Rd., Smyrna DE, 19977

10 8

7 P 4 3

5 1 2

P 11 6 P

KEY 1 Pavilion 5 Small Kid Playground P Parking 2 Fitness Station 6 Multipurpose Fields 9 DASEF Outpost Bathroom 3 Rocket Ship Playground 7 Softball Fields 10 Boardwalk Walking Path 4 Climbing Rock 8 Multipurpose Fields 11 DASEF ITEC (under construction)

10 Kent County Levy Court | Summer 2020 Brecknock County Park 80 Old Camden Rd, Camden DE, 19934

7 6 8 11 5 3 4 P 2 13 P 1 12 P 15

KEY 1 Piccadilly Castle 5 Butterfly Garden 9 Tennant House P Parking 2 Piccadilly Stage 6 Red Barn 10 Howell Mill Nature Center 13 Multipurpose Fields Bathroom 3 Pavilion 7 Goggin House 11 Youth Baseball Fields 14 Horseshoe Pits Walking Path 4 Pavilion 8 Multipurpose Fields 12 Sand Volleyball Courts 15 Fitness Station

Browns Branch County Park 1415 Killens Pond Rd., Harrington DE, 19952

4 3 11 P 5 2 1 9 P 6 7

8 10 N

KEY 1 Little Kids Playground 5 Multipurpose Fields P Parking 2 Big Kids Playground 6 Soccer Field 9 Sand Volleyball Courts Bathroom 3 Fitness Station 7 Multipurpose Fields 10 Multipurpose Fields Walking Path 4 Softball Fields 8 Horseshoe Pits 11 Picnic Tables

Summer 2020 | Kent County Levy Court 11 Hunn Nature Park 1624 Sorghum Mill Rd., Dover DE, 19901

P Rt. 10 (Lebanon Rd.)

Sorghum Mill Rd. 2 4 3

1 N

KEY

P Parking 1 Gateway South Shopping Center 3 Fishing Pier Walking Path 2 Lebanon Landing 4 Small Boat Ramp

Kesselring County Park 1683 New Burton Rd, Dover DE, 19904

2 3 6 P P

1 4 5 P 8

KEY P Parking 1 Recreation Center 4 Bleachers 7 Multi-Purpose Fields Bathroom 2 Multi-purpose fields 5 Pavilion 8 Boys & Girls Club Walking Path 3 Turf Field 6 Multi-Purpose Fields

12 Kent County Levy Court | Summer 2020 Lebanon Landing 1400 Sorghum Mill Rd., Dover DE, 19901

P 2

1 N

KEY

P Parking 1 Small Boat Ramp 2 Fishing Pier 3 Picnic Tables

Tidbury Creek County Park 2233 S. State St., Dover DE, 19901

P 7

1 2 3 4 5 6

KEY

P Parking 1 Fishing Pond 3 Playground 5 Dog Watering Station 7 Loop Trail Walking Path 2 Pavilion 4 Small Dog Area 6 Large Dog area

Summer 2020 | Kent County Levy Court 13 KENT COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY 497 S. Red Haven Ln., Dover (302) 744-1919 SUMMER 2020 CHANGES IN HOURS/PROCEDURES/ PROTOCOLS: The library will be operating with limited services and reduced hours this summer. Our operating hours will be Monday – Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Please monitor the library’s Facebook page (search “KCPLibrary”) and the Kent County Levy Court website (www.co.kent. de.us) for updates as services change in response to on- going developments. Social distancing and other proactive measures related to COVID-19 will be strictly enforced until statewide restrictions have been lifted and/or amended. Kent County Public Library conference room reserva- tions have been suspended until further notice.

BOOK DONATIONS

While we appreciate your continued generosity, the Friends of Kent County Public Library WILL NOT be accepting book, magazine or audio/visual donations during June, July, or Au- gust. We will gladly accept donations again beginning Tuesday, September 8, 2020 (pending changes in public health policy/developments). Please do not put donations in the outstide book drop. Thank you.

While some walk-in and in-person services will be lim- Flipster — Read your favorite magazines for free on vari- ited or unavailable at the Kent County Public Library, ous devices – 100s of titles to choose from. Visit your de- there are many statewide online resources available to vice’s app store or lib.de.us to download the Flipster app. Delaware public library cardholders including: Ask A Delaware Librarian — Got a question? Email, text Libby/Overdrive — Libby is a free app that gives you ac- or chat with a Delaware reference librarian who will help cess to e-books and audiobooks across multiple devices you find an answer. (Depending on the depth of infor- – both on and offline. Titles are automatically returned mation requested, it may take up to 24 hours for a re- and removed from your device at the end of the lending sponse.) Visit http://answers.delawarelibraries.org/ for period. Visit your device’s app store or lib.de.us to down- more information. load the Libby app. Don’t have a library card yet? Apply for an online li- Hoopla — Hoopla is the new free digital media service of- brary card and get instant access to all available e-me- fered by Delaware public libraries that allows you to bor- dia including e-books, audiobooks, video and more. Visit row movies, music, audiobooks, e-books, comics/manga, https://lib.de.us/help/librarycard/ (Online cards cannot and even TV shows via multiple devices including your TV. be used for borrowing physical in-library materials. You You can stream or download for viewing/reading offline. can upgrade your e-card at any public library for full ac- Titles are automatically returned and removed from your cess to all materials and services.) device at the end of the lending period. Visit your device’s app store or lib.de.us to download the Hoopla app.

14 Kent County Levy Court | Summer 2020 KENT COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

VIRTUAL BOOK CLUBS & DISCUSSIONS Ages 16 and up. Discussions will be conducted via Zoom, an online meeting platform. Attendees can join the discussion via computer or telephone. Pre- registration is required with e-mail address. Reg- istrants will receive instructions for joining the session the morning before it is scheduled. You can register online at www.tinyurl.com/KCPLvirtual or IMAGINE YOUR STORY by calling 302-744-1919. 2020 Summer Reading Program Breakfast Book Club June 1 – August 12 1st Mondays at 8:30 a.m. Children, teens and adults can earn online vir- Share what you are currently reading with the tual badges and other prizes/incentives sim- group, no assigned book. ply by reading over the summer. Foodies Book Club Register and track your progress online 1st Mondays at 2:00 p.m. at https://kentcounty.beanstack.org August 3 – A Culinary History of Southern Dela- ware (Denise Clemons) Arts & Letters Book Club SUMMER 2020 VIRTUAL 1st Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m. PROGRAMS/EVENTS August 5 – I’ll Take You There (Wally Lamb) While our in-person programming and events have The Princess Bride: book vs. movie been sidelined for the summer, we will be offering Wednesday, July 22 – 6:30 p.m. many online virtual programs. Please monitor our William Goldman’s beloved novel has sold over a Facebook page (“KCPLibrary”) for the most up-to- million copies worldwide. The movie, released 33 date listing and new program/event announcements. years ago, captured the spirit of the book and has introduced new fans to its pages ever since. Join Many of our virtual programs will be conducted via us for a discussion of The Princess Bride book and Zoom, an online meeting platform. Preregistration movie. with an e-mail address is required. Registrants will receive instructions for joining the Zoom session Meet Jodi Porter: Book Sculptor the morning before the scheduled program. You Tuesday, July 28 – 6:30 p.m. can register online at www.tinyurl.com/KCPLvirtual “What we see in our imaginations as we read should or by calling 302-744-1919. be there for the world to see. My book sculptures are my way of making stories come to life,” says ONLINE STORY TIME award-winning book sculptor, Jodi Porter. Join us Monday – Friday daily, 10:00 a.m. for a special live chat with Ms. Porter who will dis- Join Miss Robin on the library’s Facebook page (search cuss her art process and display samples of her “KCPLibrary”) as she shares a storybook or two. work. MUSICAL SING-A-LONG WITH JIM The Night Circus Book Discussion REZAC Wednesday, August 5 – 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 17 – 10:00 a.m. Join us for a discussion of Erin Morgenstern’s #1 Delaware musician and songwriter Jim Rezac will bestselling imaginative debut novel about two star- share “honest tunes played on cool guitars” with crossed magicians who engage in a deadly game of youngsters. Program will be conducted via Zoom, an cunning. online meeting platform. Attendees can join the program via computer or telephone. Preregistration is required with e-mail address. Registrants will receive THE LIBRARY AND instructions for joining the session the morning before MOBILE LIBRARY it is scheduled. WILL BE CLOSED JULY 3 & 4.

Summer 2020 | Kent County Levy Court 15 KENT COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION PRSRT STD 1683 NEW BURTON ROAD U.S. POSTAGE DOVER, DE 19904 PAID DOVER, DE PERMIT #23

ECRWSS POSTAL CUSTOMER

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