Upper Darby Township · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Upper Darby public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Debt Reimbursement Resolution for Real Property Acquisition
The township is issuing new general obligation bonds to fund capital improvement projects and refinancing older 2021 debt to save on interest. Residents questioned the exact financial impacts, interest rate caps, and the lack of a bond rating during public hearings.
Proposed FY2027 Township Budget and Fee Increases
The township proposed a $97.7 million budget for fiscal year 2027 that keeps real estate taxes flat but introduces a $100 increase to annual trash fees and a 30% sewer fee hike to establish self-sustaining enterprise funds. Residents and council members questioned the long-term sustainability and impact on fixed-income homeowners.
Preservation of the Mozino Forest
Activists and residents urged council to protect the Mozino Forest and provide updates on conservation efforts.
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.
School District Schedule Proposal
Council members expressed opposition to the school district's proposed four-day school week and planned collaborative talks.
Rat Infestations and Sanitation Services
Residents reported severe rat infestations and missed trash collections, demanding better municipal services and property maintenance.
Public Safety and Police Response
Residents and council members discussed recent local violent crimes, police staffing, and public safety committee initiatives.
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.
Immigration Enforcement and Local Services
Residents and council discussed a proposed policy preventing local police from cooperating with civil immigration enforcement by ICE. Supporters urged council to pass stronger protections, while some raised concerns about federal law compliance.
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.
Lead Poisoning Prevention and Hazard Control
Council introduced a new ordinance requiring lead inspections and safety certifications for pre-1978 rental and childcare properties to protect children from lead poisoning.
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.
MS4 Stormwater Permit Compliance
Residents voiced frustration over clogged storm drains, chronic flooding on Marshall Road and surrounding areas, and delayed maintenance.
Sewer Infrastructure and Storm Flooding
Residents highlighted ongoing stormwater flooding issues on Marshall Road and questioned the effectiveness of recent sewer fund investments.
Environmental Advisory Committee Formalization
Council advanced an ordinance to officially formalize the Environmental Advisory Committee, giving structured backing to local environmental volunteers.
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.
Taxicab and Commercial Vehicle Parking Regulations
Taxicab drivers and union representatives asked Council to exempt yellow cabs from strict commercial vehicle parking restrictions, explaining that their vehicles serve as both family transportation and their sole source of income.
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.
Eminent Domain Acquisition of Firehouse Property
The township voted to seize the Bywood fire station property via eminent domain after it was put up for sale, sparking intense debate about transparency, the treatment of volunteer firefighters, and municipal spending.
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.
Youth Community Center and Teen Programs
Local teens and advocates spoke passionately about the need for a larger community center space and expanded youth programs.
FY2026 Capital Budget and General Obligation Bonds
Upper Darby is advancing an $83.5 million capital plan to replace aging fire trucks, repair infrastructure, upgrade parks, and meet stormwater mandates without overwhelming local taxpayers.