Upper Darby Township · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Upper Darby public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Fire Station 74 and Volunteer Fire Funding
Council members raised serious concerns regarding long-standing municipal fueling arrangements and billing disputes involving the Garrettford Fire Company and township paramedic services, prompting calls for a formal investigation.
Rat Infestations and Sanitation Services
Residents reported severe rat infestations and missed trash collections, demanding better municipal services and property maintenance.
Municipal Pension Funding Obligations (2027 MMO)
Council approved the statutorily mandated minimum municipal pension obligation totaling nearly $13 million for police, fire, and municipal workers.
Property Maintenance Quick Ticket Program
The township introduced a new quick-ticket program to let inspectors hand out fines immediately for property violations like high grass and trash, aiming to clean up neighborhoods.
MS4 Stormwater Permit Compliance
Residents voiced frustration over clogged storm drains, chronic flooding on Marshall Road and surrounding areas, and delayed maintenance.
El Car Wash Land Development Project
Developers presented plans to convert a vacant Rite Aid at 832 N. Lansdowne Ave into a modern car wash, promising stormwater improvements, tree planting, and local jobs.
Sewer Infrastructure and Storm Flooding
Residents highlighted ongoing stormwater flooding issues on Marshall Road and questioned the effectiveness of recent sewer fund investments.
Public Safety and Paramedic Staging
Council members and residents discussed ongoing traffic safety concerns, speeding on local roads, and efforts to establish a paramedic staging area.
Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Action Plan
The township formally adopted Vision Zero to prioritize pedestrian and driver safety, aligning with countywide efforts to reduce traffic deaths and secure federal funding.
600 Garrett Road Mixed-Use Development
Residents strongly criticized proposed zoning changes and mixed-use developments along State Road and West Chester Pike, citing concerns over overpopulation, traffic congestion, and neighborhood character.
Licenses & Inspections Department Modernization
L&I presented major operational upgrades, moving away from 40-year-old paper systems to digital tablets, online permits, and proactive street-by-street rental inspections.
Apartment Building Emergency Evacuation Support
Residents from Barkley Square Apartments spoke out about a major pipe burst during freezing weather that displaced vulnerable tenants. They called on the township to establish better emergency protocols and support for displaced renters.
New Public Comment Policy and Meeting Rules (Resolution No. 4-26 & Ordinance No. 2026-03)
Council approved new rules requiring public comments to be made in person and stay focused on local township business, while also allowing votes at both monthly meetings. Residents pushed back hard, claiming it restricts free speech and limits citizen oversight.
Winter Storm Recovery and Snow Removal
Residents voiced frustration over unplowed streets, lack of salt during freezing temperatures, and unmanaged snow emergency routes. Public Works Director Joe Martin and Police Superintendent Timothy Bernhardt explained the logistical challenges and severe temperature limits on salt effectiveness.
Interfund Borrowing for General Fund Cash Flow
Council approved borrowing up to $5 million from the Capital Reserve Fund to the General Fund to manage early-year cash flow before tax revenues arrive.
Safe Haven Declaration
Upper Darby just made it official: the township is a safe haven for LGBTQ+ residents, strengthening local protections to make sure everyone feels welcome and secure. It's a clear statement that the city stands with its queer community against outside rollbacks.
Crime Data Reporting
An investigation revealed that Upper Darby has been quietly underreporting homicides to the state crime database. This serious drop in transparency makes local neighborhoods look safer than they actually are on paper.
Trash Collection Delay
Trash pickup in Upper Darby might be delayed by up to two weeks because a COVID-19 outbreak hit the sanitation department. You'll need to leave your bins out longer while the city hustles to cover the staffing shortage.
Policing Reform
Upper Darby is giving its police department a major makeover with new policies and reforms. If you live around here, get ready for some big changes in how local cops do their jobs.