The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!

—— October 4, 2024 (140th edition) ——

This week, the Delaware County Bureau of Elections completed the mailing of approximately 59,700 mail/absentee ballots for the upcoming General Election on November 5, 2024.

The Bureau anticipates Delaware County addressees will receive their ballots by Sat., Oct. 5. Additionally, the Voter Service Center in Media is open now, six days a week, to help voters apply for and receive mail/absentee ballots in person.

This initial mailing included ballots for voters who applied by Sep. 21. Voters who applied on or before this date and do not receive their ballot by Sat., Oct. 5, should contact the Delaware County Election Hotline at (610) 891-VOTE (8683). 

A second batch of roughly 5,500 mail/absentee applications received through Sep. 30 will be mailed next week. Additional mail/absentee ballots will be mailed in weekly batches as applications are submitted until the October 29 application deadline.

Returning Your Ballot

Delaware County voters can return their completed ballots in the following ways:

• Govt. Center Ballot Drop Box. Voters can return their ballots immediately at the ballot drop box located on the ground floor of the Government Center Building (201 W. Front Street, Media), which is open 24/7.
• Mail. Ballots can also be returned via USPS or other mail delivery services.
• Other County Drop Boxes. Starting Mon., Oct. 14, voters will have access to over three dozen ballot drop box locations across the county. Most sites will be open 24/7, and the complete list of locations and hours is available at DelcoPA.Gov/Dropbox. Ballots must be received by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, Tues., Nov. 5.

Steps for Returning Your Mail/Absentee Ballot

To ensure ballot are counted, voters must properly mark, seal, and return their ballots:

1. Place the marked ballot in the yellow ‘Secrecy Envelope’ (labeled "Official Election Ballot").
2. Seal the yellow Secrecy Envelope.
3. Insert the Secrecy Envelope into the purple-and-white Ballot Return Envelope.
4. Seal the purple-and-white Ballot Return Envelope.
5. Sign and date the declaration on the back of the purple-and-white Ballot Return Envelope.
6. Return the ballot via USPS or any Delaware County Ballot Drop Box.
7. If a mistake is made, or if assistance is needed, voters may contact the Delaware County Election Hotline at (610) 891-VOTE (8683). or visit the Delaware County Voter Service Center in Media for a replacement ballot.

In-Person Voter Service Center for Mail/Absentee Ballots

The Delaware County Voter Service Center, located at 201 W. Front Street, offers in-person voting for registered voters. Voters can visit the center to apply for and cast their ballot in-person before Election Day. The Voter Service Center is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with extended hours on Wednesdays (until 7:00 p.m.) and Saturdays (9:00 a.m. to noon) through Nov. 1. On Election Day, the Voter Service Center will be open from 7:00 a.m. until polls close at 8:00 p.m.

Important Reminders for Voters

• Mail/absentee ballots are sent only to those who have completed a valid application to vote by mail in 2024. Applications are available on the Delco Votes! website at DelcoPA.Gov/VBM.
• Voters may track the status of their ballots on the PA Department of State website at Vote.PA.Gov/MailBallotStatus.
• Voters must only return their own ballots, unless assisting a disabled voter or emergency absentee voter, which requires a signed declaration form. This form is available at DelcoPA.Gov/Dropbox.

The Delco Votes! Website provides election news, sample ballots, ballot drop box locations, polling site information, and access to forms and livestreams of Board of Elections meetings at DelcoPA.Gov/Vote.

Delaware County Council and the Delaware County Public Works Department celebrated the reopening of the New Road Bridge, also known as County Bridge #7, in Aston Township on Monday, September 30. Joined by PennDOT officials, Aston Township representatives, and the engineering and construction firms that led the project, the event marked the completion of a crucial infrastructure project for the community. 

The new 125-foot single-span steel girder bridge replaces the original 1931 reinforced concrete T-Beam structure, which had become structurally deficient, enhancing safety and accessibility for local residents and commuters.

The $4.4 million project, fully funded through the Federal Highway Administration's Highway Planning and Construction Program, represents a significant investment in Delaware County’s transportation infrastructure. This funding is part of a broader effort to address aging infrastructure across the nation, supported by the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which allocates billions of dollars to improve roads, bridges, and public works projects across the country. 

The New Road Bridge project was a collaboration between engineering firm McCormick Taylor, construction contractor Road-Con, and construction inspection firm JMT.

“Projects like these are about more than just concrete and steel—they’re about ensuring that our residents can travel to work, visit loved ones, and access essential services safely and reliably,” said Delaware County Council Member Christine Reuther. “This bridge connects neighborhoods, businesses, and schools and is a critical part of daily life for many in Aston Township.”

Project Overview

Construction on the New Road Bridge began in August 2022. Key features of the project include:

• The replacement of the original bridge with a 125-foot single-span composite steel multi-girder structure.
• Relocating the abutments outside of the existing streambed to prevent scour, which is the erosion of sediment around bridge piers and abutments due to fast-moving water.
• Upgrading safety features, including the installation of guide rails that meet current standards.
• Widening the bridge to include sidewalks and pedestrian-safe parapets on each side.
• Delaware County’s Broader Bridge Program

Pennsylvania faces ongoing challenges with aging infrastructure, including having the second-highest number of structurally deficient bridges in the nation. However, Delaware County has been tackling these challenges head-on through a comprehensive bridge program that continues to upgrade and modernize its 43 bridges. Since July 2024, three bridges have reopened, and seven additional bridges are in the design phase, with construction on two expected to begin in 2025.

“In 2024 alone, the County’s bridge program represents an investment of over $11 million, and we are proud of the progress we’re making,” added Reuther. “Today marks the third bridge reopening in Delaware County since July, and our bridge program not only reflects good use of federal and state dollars but also ensures the safety and resilience of our transportation network for years to come.”

Partnerships and Acknowledgments

The successful completion of the New Road Bridge was made possible by the strong partnerships between Delaware County, PennDOT, and local government entities. Special thanks were given to the Aston Township Board of Commissioners, including Township Manager Bill DeFeo and Commissioner Joe McGinn (2nd Ward), as well as emergency services personnel and community members for their cooperation throughout the construction process.

Delaware County Council also expressed gratitude to Danielle Floyd, Director of Public Works, and the project teams from McCormick Taylor, JMT, and Road-Con for their dedication and hard work in ensuring the timely completion of this vital project.

In addition, members of the Rockdale Arts District and the Delaware County Planning Commission are commended for their successful efforts to research and incorporate decorative bridge lighting fixtures that match the original lighting style from the nearly 100-year old bridge.

As Delaware County continues to prioritize infrastructure improvements, the reopening of the New Road Bridge stands as a testament to the County’s commitment to maintaining a safe, reliable, and well-connected transportation network.

The New Road Bridge spanning the Chester Creek

2nd annual report issued by DCHD highlights progress in public health efforts in the County

The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) released its 2024 Annual Report this week, spotlighting a year of significant strides by the two-year old health department in addressing public health throughout the Delaware County. 

Since its founding in 2022, DCHD has been dedicated to improving the well-being of Delaware County residents through a focus on health equity, disease prevention, and environmental protection. This year's report, titled “Empowering Communities Together: Building Partnerships to Promote a Healthier Delaware County,” highlights the department's key efforts to build a healthier community through collaboration and innovation.

Building Healthier Communities Together

Over the past year, DCHD has partnered with local organizations, businesses, and government agencies to tackle public health challenges and enhance the quality of life for Delaware County residents. These collaborations are the cornerstone of the department’s work, which is focused on ensuring that all residents have access to the resources they need to lead healthy lives.

Key Achievements from 2024

• Public Health Initiatives. DCHD rolled out a variety of public health programs, from licensing and inspecting food establishments to organizing health screenings and vaccination campaigns. These efforts are aimed at preventing the spread of disease and promoting healthy behaviors across the county.
• Data-Driven Insights. One of the year's major milestones was completing Delaware County’s first-ever Community Health Assessment (CHA). The department then worked with partners to develop the Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP), using local data to identify health disparities and guide future public health priorities.
• Innovative Programs. DCHD launched several groundbreaking initiatives, such as an electronic inspection management system and a liquid waste hauler program. Additionally, the department revived the county’s Immunization Coalition to ensure greater access to vaccines.
• Emergency Preparedness. Recognizing the importance of readiness, DCHD took proactive steps to enhance emergency preparedness. These efforts included disease surveillance for tuberculosis and measles, as well as distributing over 1,700 Narcan kits as part of overdose prevention.

Reflecting on the past year’s successes, Delaware County Health Department Interim Director Lora Siegmann Werner noted, “We have accomplished so much in such a short amount of time thanks to DCHD’s dedicated staff of public health professionals. We can’t do this work alone. We are so grateful to be collaborating with partners in other departments of the county and across Delco to develop strategies and approaches to tackle public health issues that matter to our community.”

“Establishing the Delaware County Health Department was a major priority for Council, and seeing the department make such an immediate, positive impact is something we’re incredibly proud of,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “DCHD’s work is improving the quality of life for Delaware County residents, particularly among the uninsured and underinsured. We look forward to their continued success in promoting health equity across the County.”

Looking Ahead to 2025

As DCHD prepares for its third year, the department is focused on expanding its services and strengthening partnerships to better serve Delaware County residents. Plans for 2025 include further developing the CHIP, increasing public outreach, and continuing to advance health equity initiatives. The department remains committed to working with community partners to address the county’s most pressing health needs.

For more information and to view the full 2024 Annual Report, visit the Delaware County Health Department's website at delcopa.gov/health/news/dchdannualreport2024.html.

For more information about the department and its services, please call the Delaware County Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100 or send an email to DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.

Delaware County Council and the Delaware County Health Department remind residents that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a crucial time dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer and emphasizing the life-saving importance of early detection. Breast cancer continues to affect millions of women worldwide, with more than 4 million survivors in the United States alone. Locally, efforts in Delaware County aim to support women through education, screenings, and vital resources to combat this disease and improve outcomes.

In Delaware County, women aged 50 and over are nearly nine times more likely to develop invasive breast cancer than those under 50. This statistic highlights the critical need for regular screenings and increased access to healthcare resources, especially for those at higher risk. Delaware County is committed to offering vital resources to its residents through collaborative efforts and events during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Empowering One Another Event

In partnership with the American Cancer Society and Jefferson Health, DCHD will host the “Empowering One Another” event on Friday, October 11, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Wellness Center in Yeadon. This event will focus on the importance of breast cancer screenings and offer opportunities for attendees to engage with educational talks, inspiring speakers, and interactive activities.

Participants will have a chance to learn more about breast cancer prevention and early detection, while also connecting with others in the community. Light refreshments and giveaways will be provided to create a welcoming atmosphere for attendees.

Registration is required and can be completed by contacting the DCHD at (484) 276-2100 or via email at DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.

Free Mammogram Screenings

In further recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the DCHD and the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center are offering free mammogram screenings on Friday, October 18, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Delaware County Wellness Center in Chester, located at 151 W. 5th Street, Chester, PA.

The screenings are available to all women aged 40 and over, regardless of insurance status. This initiative aims to underscore the life-saving potential of early detection. Regular screenings, particularly for those over 50, significantly increase survival rates by identifying breast cancer in its early, more treatable stages.

To schedule a screening, call (484) 276-2100 or email DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.

The Importance of Early Detection

Breast cancer remains one of the leading health concerns in Delaware County. Early detection through regular screenings, especially mammograms, is essential in reducing mortality rates. Women aged 50 and over face a significantly higher risk of developing invasive breast cancer, making awareness and access to screenings a top priority for Delaware County.

Support networks, education, and community resources are critical in ensuring that those affected by breast cancer receive the necessary assistance. Breast Cancer Awareness Month provides an important opportunity to spread awareness about these vital services and encourage individuals to take proactive steps in their health journey.

A Call to Action

Delaware County Council urges residents to take action during Breast Cancer Awareness Month by participating in local events, scheduling regular screenings, and raising awareness within the community. Empowering One Another and free mammogram screenings offer valuable opportunities for individuals to stay informed, take charge of their health, and support the fight against breast cancer.

For more information on these events and additional resources, visit the Delaware County Health Department website at DelcoPA.Gov/Health or contact the department at (484) 276-2100.

The Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner (OME) has been recognized as one of only six offices nationwide to receive the FY2024 Strengthening the Medical Examiner-Coroner System Program grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance.

This $95,054 grant is a significant achievement for Delaware County, marking the first time the OME has received an award from the Department of Justice.

“This grant is a critical first step toward achieving our goal of national accreditation from the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME),” said Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner Administrator Jeffrey Lange. “We have many more hurdles to overcome to obtain accreditation, but we are determined to reach those goals for the community. Accreditation represents the gold standard in forensic and medicolegal investigations, and securing it will significantly enhance the quality and credibility of the Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner.”

Funds from the grant will be used to purchase essential equipment and resources, including state-of-the-art microscopes, a carbon monoxide tester for examining decedents, specialized turnout gear for investigators entering hazardous environments such as arson scenes, and an upgraded case management system to streamline operations. These tools will be instrumental in ensuring the OME operates at the highest standards of professionalism and efficiency.

“We’re extremely proud to have been selected for this grant,” said Dr. Albert Chu, Chief Medical Examiner. “It reflects our commitment to improving services and ensuring we have the necessary resources to achieve accreditation and better serve the community.”

While NAME accreditation remains a long-term goal, the DOJ grant is a pivotal step in enhancing the Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner’s capabilities and improving service delivery. Delaware County is committed to using this opportunity to strengthen the OME and ensure it is equipped to meet the complex needs of the community.

Delaware County is holding a Fall Career Fair on Thursday, October 10, from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., at the Delaware County Department of Emergency Services complex, located at 360 N. Middletown Rd., in Media.

Attendees will have an opportunity to meet the County Recruitment Team to discuss open positions and gain a better understanding of the job duties and the benefits offered, and have the team review their resumes and skills to help determine the best fit for available positions.

A wide range of Delaware County departments will be participating, actively seeking dedicated individuals for various full-time positions. Departments and offices include the Delaware County Department of Human Services, our Health Department, Human Resources, COSA, District Justice, the Office of Judicial Support, Delaware County Court Administration, the County Sheriff’s Department, the George W. Hill Correctional Facility, Park Police, Facilities, Parks & Recreation, Planning, and the Register of Wills & Clerk of Orphans' Court Division. 

We encourage attendees to bring their resumes and be prepared for the possibility of on-the-spot interviews. This is a unique chance to make a personal connection with our Recruitment Team, learn about the roles that may intrigue you, and even receive immediate feedback on how your skills and experiences align with the County’s needs. Positions offer competitive employee benefits as well as opportunities for advancement. 

For more details about the career fair, a full listing of available positions, and to apply online, please visit our website at DelcoPA.Gov/Jobs. Even if you cannot attend the fair, we still encourage you to explore and apply for open positions online. 

Delaware County Fall Career Fair

Delaware County Emergency Services

Thursday, October 10 | 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

360 N. Middletown Rd., Media, PA 19063

The Fair Acres Geriatric Center will hold its Fall Fest on Thursday, October 10, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., on its Lima campus. 

The Fall Fest is a day of fun, food, and socialization for the residents, their families, community, friends, and staff, and helps raise funds for the Residents' Special Aid and Entertainment Fund. This fund is controlled and administered by the residents and is used to enrich their lives by financing trips, entertainment, ice cream socials, specialized clubs, bingo prizes, sporting events, parties, and more.

The Fair Acres Fall Fest will feature:

• Mini Flea Market and Craft Vendors. Featuring jewelry, household goods, crafts, and other treasures for sale.  
• Food Trucks. Tons of great food, featuring Delco Steaks, Dos Gringos, Doris’s Donuts, Mister Softee, a roving hot dog cart and From the Boot on the Move, and more.
• Clothing Drive. Attendees are welcome to bring clothing, accessories, shoes, and linens (all items should be tied in plastic bags). If you are cleaning out your closets, please consider bagging up your items and bringing them to the Fall Fest in tied plastic kitchen trash bags. We have a company that will pay us by the pound for everything we collect, and 100% of those proceeds will go to the residents' fund.
• Job Fair. Fair Acres is looking to hire high-performing, caring, and qualified individuals for several open positions. Positions include RNs & LPNs (FT and per diem), Nursing Supervisors, CNAs (FT, starting at $21.05/hour), Dieticians (no weekends, flexible schedule), and Food Service Workers. Positions offer great benefits, competitive pay, paid vacation and holidays, tuition reimbursement, and provide an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of our residents, who thrive with high-quality care, companionship, and support. Note that the job fair is right down the street—less than 1/2 mile—from the Delaware County Career Fair. Stop in at both!

Date and Time: Thursday, October 10, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Location: Fair Acres Geriatric Center, 340 N. Middletown Rd., Lima, PA 19037

For more information, contact Sue Harrar, Director of Therapeutic Activities/Volunteer Services at (610) 891-5770 or harrars@fairacres.org.

Delaware County is excited to celebrate the 200th anniversary of General Marquis de Lafayette’s historic 1824 visit to Chester this Saturday, October 5. The event will take place on the 400 block of the Avenue of the States in Chester, featuring family-friendly activities, historical reenactments, and tours of the 1724 Chester Courthouse.

Lafayette’s visit in 1824 was part of a grand national tour celebrating the 50th anniversary of the United States’ independence. During his time in Chester, Lafayette dined with local dignitaries and Revolutionary War veterans at the historic 1724 Chester Courthouse—a moment now being re-enacted for this special bicentennial celebration.

Event Highlights

The free event will include:

• Reenactors portraying Lafayette’s arrival at 2:00 p.m. followed by his remarks and a proclamation to the City of Chester.
• Tours of the 1724 Chester Courthouse at 3:00 p.m., celebrating its 300th anniversary.
• Children’s activities, historical displays, vendors, and more.

“This celebration of General Lafayette’s visit honors not only his bravery during the American Revolution but also his enduring legacy of freedom and justice,” said Delaware County Planning Director Gina Burritt. “We are proud to bring the community together to relive this pivotal moment in history and commemorate 200 years of his impact on Chester and the nation.”

Schedule of Events

1:00 p.m.: Courthouse Opens

1:45 p.m.: Bell ringing to announce Lafayette’s arrival

2:00 p.m.: Lafayette’s Ceremonial Arrival

2:30 p.m.: Speeches and Proclamation

3:00 p.m.: Guided Courthouse Tour

This event is part of the national Lafayette200 commemoration, retracing Lafayette’s historic Farewell Tour across 24 states. Delaware County’s involvement celebrates Lafayette’s legacy and his contributions to the fight for freedom in both the U.S. and France.

For more information, visit the Delaware County Planning Department website.

Let’s honor Lafayette’s legacy of freedom, bravery, and his fight against slavery! Don't miss out on this memorable celebration! 

On Tuesday, October 2, the Phillies Red October Bus Tour made an exciting stop at Veterans Square in Media, where local residents, Delaware County employees including Executive Director Barbara O'Malley, Media Borough Mayor Bob McMahon, and former Phillies came together to celebrate the start of what is hoped will be a long Phillies’ postseason run.

Phillies fans of all ages joined the fun, grabbing exclusive Red October swag, signing the iconic tour bus, and enjoying appearances from special guests.

The atmosphere was electric as county employees and residents united to show their Phillies pride. The event highlighted the team’s playoff spirit, as the crowd cheered, danced, and rallied behind the Phillies. With rally towels in hand and postseason excitement in the air, Delaware County is officially ready for Red October!

Let’s go, Phillies!

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