The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!

—— January 17, 2025 (156th edition) ——

This week, Delaware County Council, joined by members of the Delaware County delegation and the broader Delaware County Team, held a press conference to address the abrupt bankruptcy announcement by Prospect Medical Holdings, the parent company of Crozer Health.

Officials acknowledged that while Crozer Chester Medical Center and Taylor Hospital remain fully operational for now, with no closures or reductions in services currently announced, the situation remains precarious.

Prospect Medical Holdings’ track record of financial mismanagement and service reductions has left the community on edge, and County leaders are preparing for the possibility that additional closures may be forthcoming. Although Prospect has committed to continuing hospital operations, paying staff, and maintaining vendor payments during the Chapter 11 bankruptcy process, officials emphasized that the company's past actions warrant skepticism and close scrutiny.

“This bankruptcy places our community’s most vulnerable—patients, families, and frontline healthcare workers—in an increasingly precarious position,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “It is the unfortunate culmination of years of mismanagement, financial exploitation, and an alarming disregard for public health and the well-being of our residents. However, this also presents an opportunity to take Crozer back from Prospect and transfer it into responsible hands to stabilize the system for patients and workers.”

Senator Tim Kearney flanked by fellow Senators John Kane and Amanda Cappelletti, Representatives Jenn O'Mara, Heather Boyd, and Dave Delloso, and District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer and County Controller Joanne Phillips

Immediate Impact on Hospital Operations

Officials emphasized that Crozer’s hospitals, EMS operations, and mental health services are open and will remain open during the bankruptcy process. Employees will continue to be paid, and Prospect is cooperating with the Pennsylvania Attorney General and Governor Josh Shapiro’s office to divest Crozer Health and transfer it to a responsible nonprofit healthcare organization.

“County leadership is working closely with state and local partners to ensure that there is no interruption to emergency and behavioral health services,” said Dr. Taylor. “Our newly formed Delaware County Health Department, led by Director Lora Werner, is here to support residents with questions and provide updates during this uncertain time.”

“Our goal is to support our county residents with the information they need to navigate this challenging time,” said Director Werner. "The Health Department is here to provide updates and to help residents navigate available healthcare resources in the area."

Residents may call the Delaware County Health Department Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100 for updates regarding the bankruptcy as they become available and for assistance navigating available healthcare resources in the area.

The Financial Burden of For-Profit Healthcare

The impact of Prospect’s ownership extends beyond the hospital walls. Prospect has not only neglected its obligations to patients and staff but has also imposed a significant financial burden on the County and its municipalities by failing to pay over $13 million in real estate taxes.

Taxing authorities, including the County of Delaware, Springfield Township, Springfield School District, Upland Borough, Ridley School District, and Upper Darby School District, have been forced to shoulder this gap—resources that should have been reinvested in local communities rather than subsidizing the failures of a for-profit operator.

“This is yet another example of how for-profit healthcare prioritizes shareholder dividends over community well-being,” said Delaware County Council Member Christine Reuther. “The financial impact of Prospect’s failure to pay taxes has rippled through our schools, our municipalities, and our County. These funds could have been used to improve education, public safety, and community services, but instead, they’ve been diverted to offset the failures of a corporation that has shown little regard for its obligations.”

Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Process

Prospect filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy in the United States Bankruptcy Court in Northern Texas. Chapter 11 allows a company to continue operating while restructuring its debt. This includes addressing significant financial obligations such as their $150 million mortgage to Medical Properties Trust, obligations to the Crozer pension fund, and other liabilities.

The Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office is representing Delaware County communities in the bankruptcy case and remains committed to removing Prospect from ownership and ensuring the system is transitioned to responsible leadership.

Legislative Delegation’s Role

Members of the Delaware County delegation are actively working with Governor Shapiro’s office to determine a long-term solution for Crozer Health. The delegation is also reintroducing legislation to provide state oversight of hospital sales and major financial transactions, aiming to prevent such crises in the future.

“Hospitals are closing or declaring bankruptcy across the state,” said Dr. Taylor. “This is a statewide issue, and we are working with bipartisan leaders to address it head-on.”

Rep. Carol Kazeem

Senator Amanda Cappelletti

Senator John Kane

Rep. Regina Young

Huge media turnout

Peggy Malone, Crozer-Chester Nurses Ass. President

Rep. Lisa Borowski

Rep. Leanne Kruger

County Chair Dr. Taylor

Delaware County’s Role

Delaware County has convened a working group of healthcare providers, officials, and community partners to prepare contingency plans in the event of any disruption to Crozer Health’s operations. Officials emphasized that the creation of the Delaware County Health Department and partnering with the Delaware County Department of Emergency Services and Regional Emergency Medical Services has been instrumental in responding to this crisis.

Dr. Taylor also expressed deep appreciation for healthcare workers at Crozer Chester Medical Center and Taylor Hospital, calling them “the rock of this community,” adding “Despite layoffs, underfunding, and worsening conditions, they have continued to provide care with dedication and professionalism. These healthcare heroes deserve not only our gratitude but meaningful action to support their work.”

A Path Forward

Delaware County leaders reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that healthcare services remain accessible and reliable for all residents. “This is our home, and together, we will rise to meet these challenges,” said Dr. Taylor. “We will not rest until we have rebuilt a system that puts people first.”

For more information, residents are encouraged to visit Delaware County’s website at DelcoPA.Gov/Prospect or contact the Delaware County Health Department Wellness Line by phone at (484) 276-2100 or by email at DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.

Delaware County Director of Elections James P. Allen unveiled a data-driven plan to consolidate over 100 precincts to 51 during the January 14, 2025, Board of Elections Meeting. Aimed at boosting efficiency and cutting costs, this initiative would streamline the County’s 428 precincts by merging adjacent, low-voter-count areas, reducing the total precincts by 53.

Delaware County currently has approximately 410,000 registered voters and 428 precincts, averaging 958 voters per precinct. By comparison, Montgomery County averages 1,400 voters per precinct, and Chester County averages 1,650. The disparity in Delaware County stems from 24 “micro-precincts” serving fewer than 400 voters and 197 precincts serving between 401 and 900 voters.

“This plan will save over $53,000 per election, more than $106,000 annually, while improving service to voters,” said Allen. “This is a reasonable step to merge small precincts, that already vote together in the same room or the same neighborhood. None of these mergers will result in super-sized precincts.”

The proposal is the result of a comprehensive multi-year assessment of voter registration data by the Elections Department. The review focused on identifying opportunities to consolidate precincts with low voter counts while maintaining accessible locations and minimizing voter disruption.

“Jim Allen and his team deserve great credit for taking a deep dive into the voter registration data and identifying opportunities to streamline and improve our election processes,” said Delaware County Council Member Christine Reuther. “This is a thoughtful, data-driven approach that will help ensure that we continue to provide accessible and efficient voting options for all residents.”

Plan Details and Expected Impact

Under the proposed plan, smaller precincts would be merged with adjacent ones that share common voting districts, resulting in more balanced precinct sizes within the ideal range of 1,200–2,000 voters. No precinct would exceed 1,800 voters, ensuring manageable polling locations and efficient operations. Importantly, 89% of voters in the consolidation areas would continue voting at their current polling sites, while the remaining 11% would shift to new locations within 0.2–0.3 miles of their original sites.

This reduction in precincts would lead to significant cost savings, including an estimated $600,000 in future equipment upgrades over the next decade, while improving voter services and operational efficiency.

In reviewing potential consolidations, considerations included:

• whether the precincts are adjacent,
• whether the precincts share common voting districts such as State House, State Senate, Magisterial District Judge, local municipal ward/district, and school district region, and
• whether the prospective consolidated precincts already share a polling place or have polling places in close proximity.

The proposed consolidation plan will be subject to review by the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas, with implementation expected either prior to the May 20, 2025, Primary Election or before the November 4, 2025, Municipal Election.

Proposed Precinct Consolidations Presentation

Delaware County has prepared a detailed presentation and a list of precincts proposed for consolidation to help residents understand the changes. These materials, along with additional information, can be found at DelcoPA.Gov/PrecinctPlan.

The proposed consolidations are currently under review by the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas and the Pennsylvania Department of State.

For more information about the upcoming primary election, voter registration, and other election-related details, visit DelcoPA.Gov/Vote.

Delaware County has declared a Code Blue emergency, with extreme cold temperatures already impacting the region and snow expected to fall starting Sunday. This declaration activates the County’s Cold Weather Plan (CWP) to protect vulnerable and unsheltered individuals during dangerous winter weather conditions.

What Code Blue Means for Residents

During Code Blue conditions:

• Outreach teams intensify efforts to locate and assist unsheltered individuals, encouraging them to seek refuge in warm shelters.
• Overflow shelter beds are made available to accommodate increased demand, ensuring that everyone has access to a safe and warm space.

If you or someone you know is in need of emergency shelter, call the Delaware County Emergency Shelter Line at (267) 671-4357.

How You Can Help

• Check on elderly neighbors and friends to ensure their homes are adequately heated.
• Report individuals in need of emergency shelter to the Emergency Shelter Line at (267) 671-4357.
• For immediate emergencies, call or text 9-1-1.
• For additional details about Delaware County’s Cold Weather Plan [download here] and for support services, visit DelcoHomelessServices.org.

Personal Safety Tips

• Prepare your vehicle with antifreeze, a full gas tank, properly inflated tires, and an emergency kit.
• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are functioning properly.
• Wear warm, layered clothing and limit time outdoors.
• Protect pets by keeping them indoors during extreme temperatures.
• Report power outages directly to your utility company—do not call 9-1-1 for outages.

Supporting Agencies and Resources

Delaware County works closely with local organizations and agencies to provide expanded services during Code Blue conditions:

• Emergency Shelters: Available at Breaking Bread Community (484-462-0135), Life Center of Eastern Delaware County (610-734-5770), and the Salvation Army (610-874-0423).
• Adult and Family Services: Coordinates Code Blue responses, publishes resources for homeless individuals, and facilitates connections to emergency services. Contact (610) 713-2365 or visit DelcoHSA.org.
• Community Action Agency of Delaware County (CAADC): Offers weatherization programs, heating assistance, and support with LIHEAP applications. Contact (610) 874-8451 or visit CAADC.org.

The Delaware County Health Department also provides resources to prevent hypothermia, frostbite, and other cold-related medical emergencies. Contact the DCHD Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100 or visit DelcoPA.Gov/Health.

Delaware County is pleased to announce the launch of its Real Estate Tax Deferral Program, designed to help eligible homeowners manage increases in real estate taxes caused by millage rate changes.

This program allows qualified homeowners to defer (postpone) tax increases, with the deferred amount becoming a lien on the property. Deferred taxes are repaid only when the property is sold, transferred, or upon the death of the claimant, unless paid earlier voluntarily.

There is no cost to participate in the program, and eligible homeowners must meet the following criteria:

• Have a household income of $46,520 or less.
• Own and occupy the property as a primary residence for at least 12 months.
• Maintain fire or casualty insurance coverage equal to or exceeding the amount of deferred taxes.
• Have no outstanding property taxes or special assessments.
• Written approval is also required from a spouse (if filing jointly) or Trustee (if held in a qualifying Trust).

In addition to the Tax Deferral Program, homeowners may also benefit from the Homestead/Farmstead Exclusion Program, which reduces school property taxes for primary residences, and the Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, which provides financial relief to qualifying seniors, widows/widowers, and individuals with disabilities.

Delaware County residents can also save 2% on their county tax bill by paying within 60 days of the February 1 mailing date. Taxes paid between February 1 and April 1 qualify for the discount, while taxes paid after April 1 are due in full by June 1.

Delaware County is committed to helping residents manage their tax obligations and stay in their homes. To learn more about the Real Estate Tax Deferral Program and other available tax relief options, visit DelcoPA.Gov/TaxHelp or contact the Treasurer’s Office at 201 W. Front Street in Media, PA.

Take advantage of these resources and find the support you need to manage your taxes and secure your financial future.

Delaware County is proud to partner with Widener University, the Philadelphia Union, the Downtown Cultural Arts and Technology Center, the Making a Change Group, and America250PADelco to host the 3rd Annual Delaware County MLK Day of Service on Monday, January 20, 2025, in celebration of the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

This Day of Service, rooted in Dr. King’s principles of equality, social justice, and compassion, invites residents to engage in activities that promote volunteerism, unity, and community well-being. The events are designed to address current social issues, foster inclusivity, and uphold Dr. King's vision of peace and understanding.

A Reminder to Dress Warm!

With outdoor activities like the Peace March and community cleanups, residents are encouraged to dress warmly in layers and wear appropriate shoes to stay comfortable while participating in the day’s events.

Activities for the Day

• Breakfast and Opening Ceremony: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. | Union Yards at Subaru Park, 12 Reaney St, Chester, PA
• Women’s Health & Wellness Fair: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Primepoint Club inside Subaru Park, 1 Stadium Drive, Chester, PA
• Peace March: 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. | Union Yards at Subaru Park to the CAAT Center, 2300 W. 4th St, Chester, PA
• Community Cleanup (Weather permitting): 11:00 a.m. - 12 p.m. | CAAT Center, 2300 W. 4th St, Chester, PA
• Community Projects: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | CAAT Center, 2300 W. 4th St, Chester, PA (A variety of community-building activities, including art projects, cleanups, and lunch—provided by Aunt B's Country Kitchen—will conclude with remarks from elected officials and community leaders at the CAAT Center.)

Residents are invited to register at DelcoPA.Gov/MLK. Registration is not required but is strongly encouraged to help organizers plan accordingly. When registering, please indicate the event(s) you plan to attend.

Parking Information

For those attending the events at Subaru Park, including the breakfast, opening ceremony, and Women’s Health Clinic/Fair, please park in Lot G, accessible from Rt. 291 and Reaney St. A map is available at PhiladelphiaUnion.com/stadium/parking.

Join us on January 20 as we honor Dr. King’s legacy through meaningful dialogue, impactful community service, and a shared commitment to unity and compassion. We look forward to seeing you there!

Moments from the Delaware County Women’s Commission 2024 Annual Awards Brunch - See you in 2025!

The Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner (DCOME) is excited to announce that its Externship Program is set to begin its second year, continuing to provide college students with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field of forensic science.

Applications are now being accepted for the upcoming Spring 2025 semester of this innovative program, which has already earned praise for offering an in-depth look into forensic death investigations and inspiring the next generation of professionals in this critical field.

The Spring semester will run from March 17, 2025, to April 18, 2025, with an application deadline of February 10, 2025.

Building on the success of its inaugural year, the externship program will continue to be offered on a quarterly basis, with additional semesters beginning in the Fall and Winter.

“We are thrilled to continue offering this program and engaging with students passionate about forensic science and public health,” said Dr. Chu, Delaware County’s Chief Medical Examiner. “Our goal is to provide an immersive learning environment where students can gain invaluable insights into the field—insights that simply cannot be obtained through textbooks alone. This program is about fostering a deeper understanding of our work and inspiring the next generation.”

What Participants Are Saying

The transformative impact of this one-of-a-kind externship program shines through in the experiences shared by its participants. Abby G., a student from West Chester University, Class of ’24, described it as a pivotal opportunity to gain hands-on insight into the healthcare field.

“Having uninterrupted time with each department allowed me to truly understand their day-to-day operations and dive deeper into specific roles,” Abby shared. “I always felt like a valued member of the team, fully included in everything that was happening. Anytime I had questions, they were answered thoughtfully, which made me confident and comfortable seeking guidance.”

This program isn’t just about learning—it’s about fostering connections, building confidence, and preparing future leaders for success.

Sharlene B., a participant from Wilmington University’s MSN Program, Class of ’25, described how the program expanded her professional horizons and redefined her perspective on nursing.

“This was truly an amazing experience,” Sharlene shared. “I’ve been a nurse for many years, but this was unlike any clinical experience I’ve ever had. Meeting everyone and learning about their roles was incredible and getting to explore autopsies was absolutely fascinating—there’s nothing like seeing anatomy in that way. It was a valuable experience that I highly recommend for any nursing program. It highlights forensic nursing and areas that aren’t typically offered or advertised.”

Program Highlights

Participants in the externship will:

• Observe autopsies and medicolegal death investigations
• Gain insight into the daily operations of the Medical Examiner’s Office
• Experience an immersive learning environment designed to educate and inspire

Application Requirements

• Applicants must be 18 years or older
• Proof of enrollment at a college or university
• Submission of a letter of interest, a waiver showing proof of health and car insurance coverage, and a recommendation letter

Completion of an interview with DCOME’s externship coordinator and administrative staff

Participants are expected to complete 100 hours during the externship, engage in reflective writing about their experiences, and adhere to a semi-professional dress code. It is important to note that while externs will observe critical aspects of forensic investigations, they will not directly handle evidence, decedents, or hazardous materials.

This externship program is a testament to Delaware County’s commitment to fostering education and professional growth, and would not be possible without the dedication and support of the entire Medical Examiner’s Office staff. The commitment to mentoring, teaching, and sharing their expertise with the next generation of forensic professionals is invaluable.

How to Apply - Deadline is Febraury 10, 2025

Students interested in applying for the Spring 2025 Externship Program should submit their applications via email to omeintern@co.delaware.pa.us by February 10, 2025.

For questions or additional information, please contact the Office of the Medical Examiner at (610) 891-5953.

The Delaware County Office of Judicial Support is here to help you get your passport ready! Whether it's travel abroad, a tropical retreat, or just the perfect time to explore new horizons, having the necessary documents to apply for your passport is the first step to making those travel dreams come true.

And, we’ve made it even easier to get started!

The Passport Division, located in Room 127 of the Government Center at 201 West Front Street in Media recently began offering the convenience of online appointment booking.

Residents can now schedule their passport appointments with ease by completing the Delaware County Passport Appointment form. Most appointments take only 20 minutes.

Appointment Preparation Reminders

Before arriving for your appointment - make sure all documents are filled out completely and all supporting documents such as birth certificates, expired passports, driver's licenses, social security cards, and any other information needed to process your application are included. All applications must be completed using black ink only before arriving for your appointment.

Fees:

• Photos: $10 (cash or money order only)
• Execution fee: $35 (cash or money order only)

All other passport fees must be paid via check or money order only made payable to the US Department of State.

Adult Renewals

Adult passport renewals are not processed at the Delaware County office. A renewal can be done six months before the passport expires and is considered a renewal for up to 5 years after expiration.

Adult renewals can be done online through the U.S. Department of State.

It’s important to remember that while the Delaware County Office of Judicial Support assists with passport applications, all passports are processed through the U.S. Department of State. 

For more information on passport services please visit the Delaware County Passport division online or call at (610) 891-4967.

Delaware County Council Public Meeting Scheduled for January 22

Delaware County Council’s next Regular Public Meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 22, at 6:00 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room on the 1st floor of the Government Center, 201 W. Front Street, Media.

County Council holds bi-weekly public meetings to address important County matters, including contracts, purchases, agreements, amendments, and reports on ongoing initiatives and community programs.

A public Preliminary Agenda Meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 21, at 1:00 p.m. to prepare for the Regular Meeting.

Both meetings are open to the public and live-streamed at DelcoPA.Gov/Meetings. Residents are encouraged to attend, share comments, and participate in shaping the future of Delaware County. Your voice matters—join us and make a difference in your community!

Residents can also schedule appointments with members of Council to discuss matters of concern or interest. To make an appointment, contact the County Council office by email at DelcoCouncil@co.delaware.pa.us or by phone at (610) 891-4270.

This month, the Delaware County Weekly e-Newsletter proudly celebrates its three-year anniversary with its 156th edition! Since January 2022, the County has published nearly 1,500 articles, keeping thousands of residents informed about the latest County news, programs, services, and events.

With our subscriber base soon expected to top 10,000, the Delaware County Weekly continues to grow as a trusted resource for staying connected with our community.

As we reach this exciting milestone, we’re asking for your feedback one more time. We’re especially eager to hear your thoughts on the topics and stories that matter most to you.

What content do you prefer the most? Are there specific programs or services you’d like us to highlight more often? Do you want more opportunities for engagement and feedback? Would you like to see more behind-the-scenes looks at County operations? Are there new features or recurring topics we should add? Can we improve the design or format to make the newsletter more enjoyable?

Pass the Word! Signing up is Quick, Easy, and Free

Do you know someone who would benefit from staying connected to all that’s happening in Delaware County? Encourage them to sign up! It’s easy—just click the subscription button at the bottom of any edition. Sharing the newsletter with friends and family is a great way to help them stay informed and see how the County is working hard to provide meaningful services and programs.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Your support and insights have shaped the newsletter into what it is today, and we’re excited to keep improving and serving you in the years ahead.

Delaware County residents have an opportunity to become certified in Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR through the Delco Revive program. Coordinated by the Delaware County Health Department and supported in part by funds from the County’s Opioid Settlement, Delco Revive provides essential life-saving training to help residents respond to emergencies effectively.

The class will take place on Monday, February 10, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Delaware County Wellness Center, located at 125 Chester Ave., in Yeadon.

Registration is required by February 6, 2025.

To register, contact the Delaware County Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100 or email DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable skills and make a difference in your community!

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