The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!

—— The December 6, 2024 Edition (Ed.150) ——

Delaware County Proposes Budget to Fix Deficit and Build for the Future

Delaware County has released its proposed budget for 2025, focusing on fixing long-term financial problems and improving community services. This plan shows the County's commitment to running efficiently and investing in the community despite widespread economic pressures.

Budget Changes and What They Mean for You

The budget calls for a property tax increase to 3.873 mills; this would mean an approximate $185 increase annually for the average homeowner, with about a third of Delaware County residents seeing an increase of less than $100 per year.

This increase is a response to address rising inflation and flat revenue growth, ensuring the county can continue to deliver essential services without significant reductions.

This year’s proposal is only the second increase in over twelve years.

A Plan to Reinvest and Modernize: Enhancing Public Services and Safety through Technology and Community Initiatives

Operational Efficiency and Technological Advancements

The county eliminated positions that have been vacant for over a year and has asked departments to cut their spending. These steps help the government focus on important services without losing quality.
Significant funds are being directed toward updating technology, including major improvements to 911 services which will use AI to help handle emergency calls better, including transcribing them, finding caller locations more accurately, and sending critical information to first responders.
The County is also improving access to online services, such as passport appointments, while upgrading outdated processes and software systems with modern enterprise resource planning solutions

Public Safety and Community Support

Safety is a top priority, with ongoing support for the county radio system and new upgrades in the District Attorney's office. These include new forensic tools and public surveillance equipment, like street cameras and license plate readers, which will help prevent and solve crimes.
The budget continues to support essential community services, particularly in mental health and substance abuse treatment, through initiatives like ConnectED. This program shows the county's comprehensive approach to public health by working together with schools and other services.

Investments in Capital Projects and Building and System Upgrades

The County continues to invest in building and system upgrades to enhance efficiencies and improve service delivery. These projects include roof replacements at the George W. Hill Correctional Facility and the County Courthouse, long-overdue interior renovations of multiple properties, infrastructure improvements to County parks, electric vehicle acquisitions and charging station installations, upgrades to heating systems, ADA upgrades, the adoption of energy efficient lighting, and the development of a comprehensive plan for stormwater management.

A detailed PowerPoint presentation prepared by the County can be downloaded at DelcoPA.gov/Budget, or by clicking the image below.

Click to Review the FY2025 Proposed Budget Presentation

Getting Everyone Involved

Delaware County is committed to transparency and encouraging public participation in the budget process. The first public hearing, held on Tuesday, December 3, drew a nearly full room of residents eager to engage in discussions about the proposed budget.

The second hearing, held on Wednesday, December 4, also saw strong attendance and a significant number of comments and interactions between residents and County officials. This hearing included the first official reading of the proposed budget.

The third and final public hearing on the proposed budget will occur on Wednesday, December 11, which will include the second reading of the proposed budget.

All residents are encouraged to take part in these hearings to learn how funds are allocated, to gain insight into the thoughtful decision-making process behind the budget, and to share their ideas to help shape the future of our community.

Recordings of the budget hearings, as well as the link to the livestream of the December 11 hearing, are available on the County's Budget Management website at DelcoPA.Gov/Budget.

Looking to the Future

As Delaware County navigates these challenging times, the 2025 budget serves as a guide for sustainable growth and enhanced community well-being. By balancing prudent spending with strategic investments in technology and public services, the county is prepared to meet both current and future needs of its residents.

This detailed budget addresses immediate financial issues but also sets the stage for continued investment in the county’s infrastructure and services, promising a better-connected and safer community moving forward.

District Attorney’s Office Leads Ribbon Cutting at Little S Park Highlighting Latest Step in Revitalization of Chester

On Monday, December 2, District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer and Chester City Mayor Stefan Roots were joined by Senator John Kane and other local officials to celebrate the ribbon cutting at Chester’s Little S Park.

Once overgrown and in disrepair, the park has been transformed into a safe and welcoming community space, thanks to funding from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime & Delinquency through a grant to the District Attorney’s Office for the Chester Partnership for Safe Neighborhoods (CPSN).

The improvements to Little S Park included replacing the concrete walkway, removing overgrown brush, installing new benches, fencing, and trash receptacles, and adding new plantings. These changes reflect a shared commitment to creating spaces where families and neighbors can connect and thrive.

“Little S Park is more than just a green space—it’s a tangible result of the Chester Partnership for Safe Neighborhoods and the incredible work being done to create a safer, stronger community,” said District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer. “This project is an example of how we can make meaningful changes by investing in our neighborhoods and working together.”

Since its inception in 2020, the CPSN program has contributed to a 54% reduction in gun violence incidents in Chester. Strategies have included the installation of lights and cameras, the presence of trained gun violence interrupters, and support for projects like Little S Park and Concord Playground.

“Delaware County is proud to support the efforts of the District Attorney’s Office and the Chester Partnership for Safe Neighborhoods,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “This program has been a great example of how collaboration and targeted investments can make a real difference for our residents and neighborhoods.”

County Council thanks the District Attorney’s Office, the City of Chester, and all partners involved in the Chester Partnership for Safe Neighborhoods for making projects like Little S Park possible.

This revitalized space reflects our shared commitment to renewal and progress in Chester and communities throughout Delaware County.

Delaware County’s Tree Lighting Ceremony Opens 49th Annual Festival of Lights

Delaware County officially kicked off its 49th Annual Festival of Lights at Rose Tree Park on Thursday, December 5, with the annual tree lighting ceremony.

Hundreds of residents joined Delaware County Council, District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer, Santa Claus, and the County’s Parks and Recreation team, led by Interim Director Anne Stauffer, for a festive evening of lights and entertainment. The Springton Lake Select Choir, under the direction of James Smith, set the tone for the season with joyful musical performances.

The Festival of Lights, which began as part of the nation’s Bicentennial celebration nearly five decades ago, has grown into a beloved local tradition.

Visitors can stroll through more than 100 trees and displays including candy canes, a penguin family, and Santa’s reindeer, illuminated by over 100,000 lights, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Rose Tree Park.

A Special Thanks to our Partners, Sponsors, and the Community

Delaware County Council extends its appreciation to Visit Delco, with special thanks to Steve Byrne and Rob MacPherson, for their support in funding and promoting this year’s Festival of Lights and Delco Flair and Fare Nights.

Gratitude also goes to Parks Board President Kathleen Lopez, Parks Groundskeeper Superintendent Don DeMutis, and the entire Parks and Recreation team for their dedication to creating this dazzling winter wonderland. Additional thanks are extended to TD Bank, Sheet Metal Workers Local Union Number 19, Ford Brothers Electric, Penn State Master Gardeners, and the Upper Darby Police Department for their contributions to this magical event.

“This festival is a magical experience for families and visitors alike,” said Director Anne Stauffer, “The lights, the festive displays, and the new Flair and Fare Nights offer a perfect opportunity to celebrate the season, connect with loved ones, and enjoy all that makes Delaware County special.”

More about the Delco Flair and Fare Nights

In addition to the spectacular light display, the Festival of Lights features the inaugural Delco Flair and Fare Nights on five select evenings over two weekends:

Saturday & Sunday, December 7-8
Saturday & Sunday, December 14-15

These special nights will include local vendors, live entertainment, food trucks, and seasonal refreshments, offering visitors the perfect opportunity to celebrate the holidays in true Delco style. With a rotating lineup of vendors, each night promises a fresh experience for returning guests.

Saturday, December 7

Sunday, December 8

Plan Your Visit: Now through Jan. 4

The Festival of Lights runs nightly from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. through Saturday, January 4, at Rose Tree Park, located at 1671 N. Providence Road, in Media. Admission and parking are free, and handicapped parking is available. Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome.

For weather-related updates, cancellations, or schedule changes, text DELCOPARKS to 888777 or select Parks & Recreation Alerts in the Delco Alert system.

For updates about Delco Flair and Fare Nights, including participating vendors and any weather changes, visit www.holidayvillagedelco.com.

Delaware County Health Department Partners with Pennie to Provide Affordable Health Coverage

The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) is proud to announce its partnership with Pennie, Pennsylvania’s official online health insurance marketplace. Created by the state and supported by top private insurance companies, Pennie helps residents access affordable, high-quality health insurance plans that meet their needs.

To ensure residents receive the support they need, Pennie staff members will be available at the Delaware County Wellness Center in Yeadon every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. during the 2025 open enrollment period. These in-person sessions provide an opportunity for individuals and families to get assistance with understanding plan options, completing enrollment, and accessing available savings.

The 2025 Pennie open enrollment period runs from November 1, 2024, through January 15, 2025. Key deadlines include:

December 15, 2024: Last day to enroll for coverage starting January 1, 2025.
January 15, 2025: Last day to enroll for coverage starting February 1, 2025.

For many, navigating health insurance can be overwhelming, and Pennie aims to simplify the process while ensuring no Pennsylvanian is left without coverage. By offering access to multilingual Assisters and free resources, Pennie helps individuals and families secure the best coverage at the lowest cost possible.

Affordable, quality health care is fundamental to the wellbeing of our residents, and this partnership will help ensure that individuals and families in Delaware County have better access to the support they need to make informed choices about their health coverage

Residents can learn more, explore their options, and access free multilingual support by visiting Pennie.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to secure affordable health coverage and take an important step toward protecting your health and future.

Delaware County Seeking Nominations for the Heritage Commission Preservation Awards

Nominations are now open for the 2025 Heritage Commission Preservation Awards. These awards, first held in 1978, celebrate those in Delaware County—including individuals, groups, organizations, businesses, and institutions—who have made significant strides in safeguarding and revitalizing our local landmarks and the abundant historical narratives of Delaware County.

Help us honor those who are preserving our heritage by restoring or rehabilitating a building, object or site, publishing an article, book, or any written material about our history or our heritage, contributing to the general public knowledge and awareness of Delaware County history, or creating a special program or project that highlights a facet of community history.

We want to know about these projects and accomplishments and ensure that the people and organizations in Delaware County who are working hard to preserve our heritage are recognized and celebrated. Any group or person can make nominations for any category.

By helping us recognize Delaware County’s successes, you will be helping to encourage the continued preservation of our county’s heritage. Coordinated by the Delaware County Heritage Commission, these awards are presented annually by County Council during National Preservation Month in May.

2025 Heritage Commission Preservation Award categories include:

Site Preservation. Recognizes efforts towards exterior and interior restoration, preservation, or rehabilitation of an historical structure and/or site.

Publications. Recognizes those who have published books, articles, magazines, videos, calendars, social media, and websites, that present the heritage of Delaware County.

Special Programs/Projects. Recognizes education, research, archival activities, or other creative processes used to preserve Delaware County’s heritage.

Individual or Group Achievement. Recognizes an individual or group whose contributions in support of projects or activities. Group Achievement recognizes a group who has formed for the purpose of history or preservation.

Historic Preservation Planning. Recognizes efforts in planning to preserve Delaware County’s heritage, including preserving buildings, complexes, archaeological sites, and community character.

Youth. Recognizes a youth who has made outstanding efforts to preserve Delaware County’s heritage through various projects undertaken, in school or outside.

The Leedom B. Morrison Heritage Award. Recognizes preservation projects in the City of Chester that involve restoration, rehabilitation, or adaptive reuse of an historical structure.

Legacy Award. Recognizes the efforts of long-standing members of the business community that have demonstrated good stewardship and have maintained the architectural integrity and architectural elements of their historic buildings and site.

Veterans Legacy. Recognizes efforts to memorialize veteran’s history, sites, cemeteries, monuments, or objects.

Indigenous Heritage. Recognizes projects that ensure preservation of Indigenous objects, traditional places or lifeways, and intangible heritage or languages.

2024 Heritage Commission Preservation Award Winners

Nominations will be accepted through February 28, 2025.

Details about the Heritage Commission Preservation Award categories and nomination forms are available online at DelcoPA.Gov/HeritageAwards. Award nominations can be submitted through an online form, via email, or through the mail.

We strongly encourage you to thoroughly review the award criteria, fully complete the form, and include all materials requested. We look forward to receiving your nominations. If you have any questions, please contact Kate Clifford at DelawareCountyHeritage@co.delaware.pa.us or by phone at (610) 891-5223.

Award winners and individuals and organizations who submitted a winning nomination will be invited to attend the 2024 Heritage Commission Preservation Awards ceremony in May.

Thank you to the members of the Delaware County Planning Department, the Heritage Commission, local municipalities, historical societies, and individuals from the community who are dedicated to preserving and honoring the historic sites throughout our County.

Supporting Veterans During the Holiday Season

In the spirit of the holiday season, a time typically marked by joy, festivities, and togetherness, the Delaware County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, in collaboration with the Delaware County Suicide Awareness and Prevention Task Force, acknowledges a more somber reality for some of our community's Veterans. For some, the holiday cheer often brings with it a contrasting sense of sadness and isolation.

Understanding the complex emotional landscape that many veterans navigate during this season, Military and Veterans Affairs and the Task Force are reaching out to emphasize the importance of setting realistic expectations for the holiday season and recognizing that it's normal to experience a mix of both positive and negative emotions. This acknowledgment is a crucial step in fostering a supportive environment for the County’s Veterans.

As part of their initiative to provide guidance and support, a list of practical tips to help Veterans cope with the emotional challenges that the holiday season may bring has been created. These tips are aimed not only at helping Veterans navigate their feelings but also at reminding them that they are not alone in their experiences.

The recognition of these challenges and the subsequent outreach efforts reflect Delaware County's commitment to Veterans, ensuring that even in times of solitude, support and understanding are readily available.

Tips for coping this holiday season:

Both positive and negative feelings can be felt around the holidays, this is normal!
Try to reframe unrealistic expectations you may have about the holidays.
Getting out and around others can help put you in a positive mood.
Consider volunteering for a non-profit organization, an animal shelter, or visiting a nursing home to remember the spirit of giving.
Surround yourself with supportive and positive people.
Re-connect with someone you have lost touch with.
Find opportunities to increase your natural supports during the holidays.
Maintain a balanced healthy diet. Everything in moderation. Get plenty of rest.
Exercise regularly.
Go outdoors. Be active!
Pace yourself with commitments and activities so you remain regulated.
Remember it’s okay to say “no,” and not attend every function.
Set priorities and budgets before the holidays. Create a calendar or "To Do List" for shopping, baking, visiting, and other events.
Give gifts that can't be bought, such as time and the sharing of memories.

Tips for Coping this Holiday Season

To further aid Veterans in navigating the emotional challenges of the holiday season, the Military and Veterans Affairs and the Task Force collaborated to create a helpful, downloadable flyer.

The printable resource encapsulates these valuable coping tips, providing an easy reference for Veterans and their loved ones.

[ Download ]

Are you a Veteran in need of peer support?

Contact the Delaware County Critical Incident Stress Management Team at (610) 565-8719 — or through any 911 dispatcher. Veterans can also call the Delaware County Mobile Crisis Team at (855) 889-7827 or dial 988 (Ext. 1).

Experiencing suicidal thoughts?

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, please dial 911.

Delaware County Sustainability Commission Seeks Voices for Justice and Marginalized Communities

The Delaware County Sustainability Commission has extended its deadline to Thursday, December 12, to receive applications for two board openings for individuals with experience in environmental justice or who hail from an historically marginalized community.

“It’s vital that all communities and residents, especially those who have been historically underserved, feel heard and represented as we work to protect our natural resources, improve climate resilience, and ensure equitable access to a healthier environment for all of Delaware County,” said Rebecca Yurkovich, Interim Chief Sustainability Officer. “The Delaware County Sustainability Commission is committed to fostering an inclusive and sustainable future for all.”

Strong voices and a deep commitment to environmental justice are essential to advancing sustainable policies that address the needs of underserved populations. Individuals with this background bring unique perspectives and expertise to the Commission’s work, ensuring that sustainability initiatives reflect the County’s diverse communities and prioritize equity alongside environmental progress.

The Sustainability Commission provides review, feedback, and recommendations to County Council and County departments on environmental and energy-related matters. This includes areas such as energy efficiency, natural resource protection, climate resilience, sustainable transportation, air quality, stormwater management, wildlife preservation, and climate change mitigation.

Commission members also play an active role in shaping the Delaware County Sustainability Action Plan and recommending actions, programs, and projects that promote sustainability through a Triple Bottom Line lens—balancing environmental stewardship, economic responsibility, and social equity.

Additionally, the Commission helps educate the public and supports municipalities, businesses, and non-profits in advancing sustainability goals across the County.

Members include designated County officials and residents of Delaware County appointed by the Delaware County Executive Director. The County encourages passionate residents ready to commit their time, expertise, and energy to apply for these important positions.

How to Apply

Interested residents should send a resume, a letter of interest, and an indication of their applicant category (environmental justice expertise or historically marginalized background) to DelcoBoards@co.delaware.pa.us.

Applications will be accepted through 4:30 p.m. on Friday, December 13.

For a full list of board vacancies, detailed descriptions, and application instructions, please visit DelcoPA.Gov/Board-Vacancies.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Sassy Massey Toy Drive Donation Deadline is Dec. 12

The Delaware County Sheriff's Office is wrapping up its collection for the 9th Annual Sassy Massey Toy Drive on Thursday, December 12, at 4:30 p.m. Unwrapped gifts can be delivered to the Sheriff's Office in Room 101 of the Courthouse, located at 201 W. Front Street in Media.

This initiative, organized by the Sassy Massey Smiles Foundation, celebrates the vibrant spirit of Jillian Massey, a courageous 5-year-old whose infectious joy inspired so many during her battle with cancer. The foundation continues her mission of spreading smiles by bringing toys and comfort to children receiving treatment in local hospitals.

During this season of giving, let’s come together to make a difference for children and families in our community. Whether it’s a toy or a small gesture of kindness, your generosity can make the holidays brighter for those who need it most.

A huge thank you to our Delaware County employees and residents who have already contributed—helping bring hope, joy, and holiday magic to children in need.

Let’s make this season unforgettable! For more information, contact the Sheriff’s Office at (610) 891-4296.

Delaware County Park Police’s "Operation Blue Christmas" Toy Drive is Underway!

The Delaware County Park Police are proud to announce their 9th annual “Blue Christmas” Toy Drive.

New, unwrapped toys will be collected through December 22 at various locations across the county for children in need this holiday season. Residents and County employees are encouraged to donate new, unwrapped gifts for children ages 2-16. The gifts will be donated to local families in need.

“All children deserve to feel joy on Christmas morning,” said Delaware County Park Police Chief John Deihl. “For children in foster care, those battling cancer and other illnesses, and those experiencing hard situations, Christmas can be a difficult time. We hope the small gesture of giving them a gift to open on Christmas morning brings them some happiness.”

Donations are being accepted at the following locations:

Delaware County Government Center. 201 W. Front St., Media (Ground Floor Lobby)
Delaware County Park Police/69th Street. 20 S. 69th St., Upper Darby (3rd Floor)
Chester District Court. 529 Penn St., Chester (desk at the main lobby)
Sharon Hill Probation Office. 1600 Calcon Hook Rd., Sharon Hill
Delaware County Bureau of Elections. Wharf Building, 2501 Seaport Dr., Chester
The Fronefield Building. 201 W. Front St., Media
The Falcon Center. 525 West Chester Pk., Havertown

Thank you to Delaware County employees and residents who will help to make Christmas a little merrier for some children this year!

Delaware County’s 30-Day Burn Ban Expires

The 30-day countywide burn ban, enacted by Delaware County Council on November 7, officially expires at midnight on Friday, December 6, with responsible outdoor burning permitted again starting on Saturday, December 7.

The temporary ban, originally recommended by Delaware County’s District Forester, supported by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and backed by more than 70 Fire Chiefs across the County had been established in response to heightened wildfire risks caused by ongoing dry conditions and strong winds.

Recent rainfall and improved weather conditions have helped lower immediate fire risks, making it safe to lift the ban. However, drought conditions persist in the region, and residents are encouraged to remain vigilant about fire safety and water conservation.

“While the burn ban has been lifted, we urge all residents to continue practicing responsible burning to protect their families, neighbors, and communities,” said Delaware County Vice Chair Richard Womack. “It’s also important to take simple steps to conserve water as drought conditions remain.”

Fire Safety

Never leave fires unattended and keep them contained in approved fire rings or barrels.
Keep water sources or fire extinguishers nearby when burning.
Avoid burning on windy days to prevent fires from spreading.

Water Conservation

Turn off faucets while brushing teeth or washing dishes.
Fix household leaks promptly.
Limit lawn watering and outdoor water use.
Take shorter showers and use water-efficient fixtures.

Additional Resources

For fire safety tips, residents can visit the National Fire Protection Association website at NFPA.org.

Delaware County extends its gratitude to residents for their cooperation during the burn ban and for continuing to prioritize safety and environmental responsibility.

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