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The Delaware County Digest
Your source for the latest news from Delaware County | October 24, 2025
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Delaware County Controller’s Office: Independent Oversight, Modernization, and Fiscal Excellence
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Delaware County Controller Joanne Phillips, Esq., delivered a detailed State of the Controller’s Office presentation on Wednesday, October 22, at the Government Center, highlighting her office’s independent role and wide-ranging financial responsibilities.
Joined by First Deputy Jeff Powers, Phillips described a small but highly skilled team managing hundreds of millions of dollars in public funds while maintaining award-winning transparency.
“We serve an independent role. We don’t work for Council, and we don’t work for the Executive Director,” Controller Phillips said. “Our commitment is to make sure taxpayers receive what they pay for and that we protect the County’s financial integrity.”
As established under the Home Rule Charter, the Controller’s Office operates separately from both County Council and the Executive Director, ensuring objective financial oversight. In addition to overseeing auditing, payroll, and accounting functions, Phillips serves on the Jail Oversight Board, Juvenile Detention Management Board, and Retirement Board—statutory appointments that reinforce the Controller’s independent fiscal accountability role.
Managing Millions with a Small but Mighty Team
With just 17 staff, the Controller’s Office oversees an annual spend of more than $422 million, payroll for nearly 3,000 employees, and a fully funded $754 million pension fund. Phillips noted that “we’re hard at work every day,” ensuring accuracy, compliance, and service across all departments.
The Accounts Payable team processed 38,443 checks in 2024 and 27,187 checks through September 2025, issued nearly 1,900 1099s, and handled more than 2,200 election payments per cycle. The Payroll Department manages biweekly pay, union dues, and benefits for 12 unions and issued 3,634 W-2s for 2024—all handled entirely in-house.
| Controller Joanne Phillips and members of the County's high-performing watchdog office | |
Innovation and Modernization
Phillips’ office continues to modernize County financial systems through the implementation of Workday, a next-generation enterprise resource planning platform that will streamline payroll, budgeting, reporting, and accounting across all County departments.
“Even while managing their daily responsibilities, 12 of our 17 staff are leading the County’s transition to Workday,” Phillips said. “It’s a huge effort and a testament to their dedication to improving County operations and data quality.”
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That modernization comes on top of the office’s continued recognition for financial reporting excellence. The Controller’s Office once again earned the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the County’s 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report—one of the most prestigious honors in public finance.
The award recognizes state and local governments that achieve the highest standards of transparency and accuracy in their financial reporting. Delaware County has received this distinction multiple years in a row, underscoring the Controller’s commitment to clarity, accountability, and public trust in the management of taxpayer dollars.
Innovation in Returning Unclaimed Funds
Phillips also spotlighted the County’s Unclaimed Funds Program, which her office developed and other counties are now emulating. In 2025, the office mailed 772 letters, received 262 responses, returned $729,540 to rightful owners, and escheated $420,640 to the Commonwealth. '
“We’d rather reunite people with their money than send it to the state,” Phillips said, noting the program’s success rate.
Independent Praise from Council
Councilmember Christine Reuther praised the Controller’s Office for managing a difficult and highly technical job with professionalism and precision. “It’s a tough job, especially when people are pushing to get checks out the door or make changes,” Reuther said. “They’re managing a complex, aging financial system with incredible skill and patience—and doing it while maintaining their independence and objectivity. My hat’s off to them for the work they do.”
Councilmember Kevin Madden called the Controller’s Office “the spine that keeps the County running effectively day in and day out,” adding, “They consistently put their heads down and get it done, whatever hour is necessary.”
Fiscal Stewardship and Public Trust
The Controller’s Office closed 2024 with an 8% budget savings, continuing its commitment to cost-conscious management. In addition to managing audits, filings, and payrolls, Phillips’ office administers a healthy pension fund, conducts targeted internal audits—including an ARPA grant audit of volunteer fire companies—and ensures compliance with all state and federal reporting requirements.
“In an era when taxpayers demand transparency and accountability,” Madden said, “the Controller’s Office stands out as a model of stewardship. Their work isn’t just numbers—it’s the backbone of public trust.”
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Delaware County and MVP Recovery Showcase ConnectED’s Expansion and Collaborative Approach to Youth Behavioral Health and Wellness
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On Wednesday, October 22, County Council and members of the public received an update on the Healthy Schools, Healthy Kids’ ConnectED program from the Delaware County Department of Human Services and MVP Recovery, the community-based behavioral health organization that partners with the County to deliver the program and provide direct support to students and families.
The presentation—introduced by Shannon Fitzpatrick Thomas, the Healthy Kids, Healthy Schools Administrator with the Department of Human Services, and presented by MVP Recovery CEO Brian Corson—outlined how ConnectED is expanding access to timely, confidential behavioral health support for students and families across Delaware County.
Upholding the Mission: Fast Access, Fewer Barriers
Now five and a half years into Delaware County’s ten-year Healthy Kids, Healthy Schools strategic plan, the ConnectED initiative continues to strengthen its core purpose—creating access, reducing barriers, and providing a clear, 24/7 pathway to help for young people in distress.
Fitzpatrick Thomas opened the presentation by thanking District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer for his early leadership in helping establish the program, as well as County Council for their ongoing support. She also recognized Chief Sandra Garrison and Human Services Director Angelique Heirs for their partnership and support before introducing Corson to provide the program update.
What ConnectED Is and How It Works
Presenting on the program, MVP Recovery CEO Brian Corson explained that ConnectED “was built off the ‘warm handoff’ foundation we have here in Delaware County, one of the most successful in Pennsylvania.” He explained that ConnectED builds on the County’s successful Warm Handoff model by providing immediate, personal assistance to adolescents and families facing mental health or substance use challenges—connecting them directly to treatment and recovery services without delay.
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Through ConnectED, anyone can call 1-855-MVP-2410 at any hour and be connected with a person in recovery—either a Certified Recovery Specialist or Certified Peer Specialist—someone who has personally experienced and overcome mental health or substance use challenges. These trained peers help guide families through the process, navigating resources and linking them to professionals and services in real time.
The model emphasizes prevention, early intervention, and close collaboration among schools, families, community partners, and treatment providers.
Corson noted that partnership remains the key to the program’s success. “When we talk about prevention, a key component is collaboration,” he said. “Working with County leaders, the Department of Human Services, and our school districts—those relationships are what make this program possible.”
Measurable Growth and Outcomes
Corson reported significant year-over-year growth in both engagement and successful connections to care. In 2024, ConnectED engaged 66 adolescents and linked 67 percent directly to treatment. Through October 17, 2025, engagements climbed to 246 adolescents, with 78 percent linked to treatment or resources in real time.
Referrals came from schools (29 percent), community members (31 percent), and partner agencies (40 percent), reflecting ConnectED’s “no wrong door” approach to access. Most families served—84 percent on Medical Assistance and 16 percent with private insurance—illustrate the program’s accessibility across income levels and its role in reaching underserved populations.
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Prevention in Action Across Schools and Communities
ConnectED is intentionally designed to reduce stigma and make help visible and accessible. In 2025, ConnectED Coordinator Kayla Taylor delivered over 25 presentations and seminars to schools and community organizations, ensuring students, parents, and educators know how to get help quickly.
The team also uses program data to identify and share emerging trends with schools and partners. Alcohol, marijuana, and vaping remain the most common substances among local adolescents—vaping increasingly in middle and even elementary grades. The team also identified a concerning pattern of some teens mixing Benadryl with fentanyl, an insight immediately shared with schools and first responders to strengthen education and prevention efforts.
Councilmember Elaine Paul Schaefer commended the partnership for its responsiveness. “You’ve made an impact and a real difference in our community,” she said. “It’s inspiring to see how collaboration between the County, MVP, and our schools can make this kind of tangible progress.”
A Collaborative Model That Sustains Progress
Corson described the program’s guiding principle as “early connection changes trajectories.” “What’s most powerful is seeing how early intervention changes the trajectory for students,” he said. “When help comes quickly, we see families regain hope and kids return to school ready to move forward.”
The model also emphasizes follow-up. Through 30-, 60-, and 90-day check-in protocols, staff identify and resolve barriers such as transportation or insurance lapses—already re-engaging 20 youth who had paused care. ConnectED’s family-centered approach ensures that long-term recovery is supported not only through treatment but at home.
| Stories Behind the Numbers | |
Kayla Taylor shared a story of a 16-year-old referred to ConnectED for PTSD and anxiety who struggled with basic self-care in a difficult home environment. With trauma-informed care and consistent support, she rebuilt her daily routines, took the SATs, and is now preparing to become the first in her family to attend college.
“Every challenge we face, every success we celebrate, creates stability,” Taylor said. “It’s an impact that can change families for generations.”
Following the presentation, County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor praised the program for its vision and results. “When we started this, it was about creating access and reducing barriers,” Dr. Taylor said. “Now we’re seeing that vision realized—anyone who sees a young person in distress can call for help 24/7 and get real support. That’s what makes this program so special.”
How to Get Help
ConnectED is administered by MVP Recovery in partnership with the Delaware County Department of Human Services as part of the County’s Healthy Kids, Healthy Schools initiative. Anyone—teachers, school counselors, parents, or community members—can reach a certified peer or recovery specialist 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 1-855-MVP-2410.
The program also includes a Program Coordinator who works directly in schools and the community to provide education, presentations, in-person assessments, and real-time linkage to behavioral health and substance-use services. MVP Recovery’s 24/7 Peer Support Team ensures that families and students receive help whenever they need it, with follow-up and coordination that continue beyond the first call.
For more information, visit DelcoPA.Link/ConnectED or call the number above anytime.
| ConnectED, formerly the School-based Assessment Program, was rebranded in 2024 to better reflect its mission of connecting students and families to real-time behavioral health support, emphasizing collaboration, access, and community connection. |
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Delaware County Shares Key Reminders Ahead of the November 4, 2025 Municipal Election
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Delaware County Council is reminding residents to make their plan to vote in the upcoming Municipal Election on Tuesday, November 4.
Polls will be open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and voters can confirm their polling place, review sample ballots, and access comprehensive election information at DelcoPA.Gov/Vote.
For those voting by mail, Delaware County’s ballot drop boxes are now open ahead of schedule. Voters may return their mail-in or absentee ballots at any Delco drop box location through Election Day.
Drop boxes are open 24/7, except for the Chadds Ford location, which operates Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and Tuesday and Thursday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
If you plan to return your ballot through the mail, the U.S. Postal Service recommends mailing it by October 28 to ensure it arrives by the County’s 8:00 PM Election Day deadline. To avoid postal delays, voters are encouraged to use the County’s drop boxes whenever possible — the most direct and reliable way to ensure timely delivery.
The deadline to apply for a mail-in or absentee ballot is Tuesday, October 28, at 5:00 PM. Voters applying close to the deadline, or those who make an error on their ballot, are encouraged to visit the Voter Service Center at the Government Center in Media to receive a replacement ballot over the counter. Valid ID is required.
The Voter Service Center, located on the ground floor of the Government Center, will be open on Election Day from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and on Saturday, October 25, and Saturday, November 1, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon to assist voters with mail ballot applications, replacements, or other election questions.
Delaware County Seeking Paid Poll Workers
Delaware County is also encouraging residents to serve as poll workers for the upcoming election and future elections. These are paid positions, and training is provided. Even if a local precinct is fully staffed, nearby polling places may still need additional support.
Poll workers play a vital role in ensuring that elections run smoothly, securely, and fairly — and the County is grateful to the many residents who serve each year. Interested voters can learn more by visiting DelcoPA.Gov/Vote and clicking on the Poll Worker Resources page or by calling the Poll Worker Hotline at (484) 460-3750.
Finally, voters are reminded that ballots have two sides — please remember to review and complete all contests on both sides before casting your vote.
For questions or assistance, contact the County’s Election Hotline at (610) 891-VOTE (8683).
Make your plan to vote — and let your voice be heard on or before November 4.
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Delaware County Budget Task Force Invites Public to Final Meeting on November 10
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Delaware County Council Vice Chair Richard Womack announced that the County’s Budget Task Force will hold its final public meeting on Monday, November 10 at 6:00 PM, inviting residents to hear directly from the task force participants about their findings, recommendations, and ideas.
The Budget Task Force, launched earlier this year to strengthen public engagement in the County’s budgeting process, welcomed more than 60 residents and taxpayers to participate in four working subcommittees: Budget Presentation, Capital Investments, Cost Containment, and Revenue Enhancement. Each group examined a different facet of the County’s financial operations and explored ways to improve transparency, efficiency, and long-term fiscal health.
Task force members received in-depth presentations from departments such as the County Treasurer’s Office, Economic Development, Public Works, Parks and Recreation, Emergency Services, and Central Purchasing, and toured several County facilities, including the Delaware County Health Department in Yeadon, Fair Acres Geriatric Center, the Office of the Medical Examiner, and Rose Tree Park.
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“I’m proud to say that no member of the public who wished to serve was turned away,” said Vice Chair Womack. “Whether they joined as a friend or a critic, whether they joined to find fault or to learn more, they rolled up their sleeves and dedicated their time and their talents to their neighbors.”
Vice Chair Womack emphasized that budgets are a reflection of community values, and that local governments are increasingly challenged by inaction and gridlock at the federal and state levels. “There are investments not being made and work not being done in Washington and in Harrisburg that our residents need,” he said. “But here in Delaware County, we’re moving forward, and we want to thank the members of the public who joined us in that effort.”
The Budget Task Force was created to give residents a meaningful role in shaping the County’s financial priorities, providing feedback on spending, revenues, and investments ahead of the annual budget cycle. Its final report and recommendations will help inform future budget strategies and strengthen transparency in the years ahead.
Residents are encouraged to attend the final Budget Task Force meeting on November 10 at 6:00 PM and hear firsthand from the participants who helped shape this important community-driven effort.
For more information about the Budget Task Force and its work, visit DelcoPA.Gov/Budget-Task-Force.
| | Take Part, Spread the Word, Stay Connected | | |
2026 Opportunity. Be Seen. Be Ready. Be Delco!
Join the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce and Visit Delco, PA on November 6 at 8:00 AM at Subaru Park to explore how global events like the FIFA World Cup and America 250 will boost local business visibility and community engagement. Free to attend. Registration required. Click here to register
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Not So Spooky StoryWalk Returns October 24
Families are invited to join Delaware County Libraries on Fri., Oct. 24 for the Not So Spooky StoryWalk® featuring The Leaf Thief by Alice Hemming. Enjoy fun activities, giveaways, and story time with beloved librarians and our local ELRC 15.
Registration required (10:30 | 11:00) — each family receives a free book!
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Manage your chronic disease and live better!
Join COSA at Wayne Senior Center for the free Steps to Healthy Living: Chronic Disease Self-Management Program for those age 60+, Thursdays from 1–3:30 PM, Oct. 30–Dec. 11. This interactive, evidence-based program helps participants build confidence and practical skills to manage chronic conditions. Space is limited — call (610) 872-1383 or email williamse@co.delaware.pa.us to register.
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Free Mammogram Screenings — Early Detection Saves Lives
Delaware County Health Department and Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center offer free mammogram screenings October 30 in Yeadon. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, County Council urges residents to prioritize breast health and schedule a screening — because early detection saves lives. Register at (484) 276-2100.
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U.S. Marine Corps 250th Birthday Flag Raising
Join Delaware County’s Office of Military & Veterans Affairs for a U.S. Marine Corps Flag Raising Ceremony on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 12:00 PM at the County Courthouse, 201 W. Front Street, in Media. The event honors 250 years of the Marine Corps and its commitment to the United States with remarks and remembrances.
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