Beloved theater listed on the National Register of Historic Places to re-open in 2024 

Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor and Vice Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer, Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, State Senator Tim Kearney, Lansdowne Mayor Magda Byrne, and other elected officials were thrilled to join Matt Schultz, Executive Director of the Historic Lansdowne Theater Corporation (HLTC), and donors and representatives from a variety of supporting organizations at a restoration kick off for the historic Lansdowne Theatre on July 24. 

Efforts to restore the historic theater, led by Schultz and supported with grants from the County and State, have been ongoing for over a decade.  

“Council is absolutely thrilled to see this amazing theater start to return to its former glory,” said Council Chair Dr. Taylor. “The investment into the theatre will revitalize the surrounding area, create jobs, and will breathe new life into the community.”

Delaware County Council was able to support restoration efforts through allocation of $2.5M grant through the American Rescue Plan Act, and an additional $570,489 in block grants by way of the Delaware County Office of Housing and Community Development, through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

This investment, combined with $1.5M federal earmark co-introduced by Senator Casey and Congresswoman Scanlon — in combination with significant donations from over 1,000 individuals and private groups including the Foundation for Delaware County, The National Endowment for the Arts, The Connelly Foundation, The Dapplecroft Fund of the Philadelphia Foundation, The Presser Foundation, the Greater Lansdowne Civic Association, Ethel Sergeant Clark Smith Memorial Find and the National Trust for Historic Preservation — has boosted efforts to restore and revive the theater. 

“Delaware County Council, under Dr. Taylor’s leadership, has been steadfast in its support of the Lansdowne Theater Project recognizing the potential to catalyze private investment nearby the theater and to create jobs. The theater will be a major player in the efforts of the county to grow the tourism industry in the county,” said HLTC Executive Director Matt Schultz.

Additional financial support Commonwealth of PA (Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program ($4M), the Department of Community and Economic Development ($1M), Commonwealth Financing Authority ($200,000), PA Historical and Museum Commission ($124,000), the DELCO Interactive Gaming Revenue Authority ($25,000), and the Borough of Lansdowne (in the form of permit and easement fee relief of $200,000).

“We took on this project because we want to preserve this landmark building and recognized the potential of the project to spur economic development throughout the business district. We are excited to partner with a concert promoter to bring nationally and internationally known musicians to enliven not only the building, but the surrounding neighborhood,” said Schultz. 

The historic and beautiful Hollywood Moorish-style 1,280-seat theater was a regional hub for the arts for decades since it first opened in 1927, just before the advent of the “talkies,” during the height of the ‘roaring twenties.’ 

The first feature was the silent film “Knockout Riley,” starring Richard Dix, and over the decades the theater showed countless films and occasional live performances. On July 3, 1987, an electrical fire broke out in the basement during a showing of Beverly Hill Cops II, and the theater hasn’t been used since. 

The theater, once fully restored, will reopen as a major concert venue, expected to attract 100,000 patrons annually. The theater is also expected to have a significant impact locally, spurring additional investment and bolster local restaurants in Lansdowne, Clifton Heights, Upper Darby, Havertown, and other nearby communities. HLTC representatives project that over 100 jobs will be created during the construction phase, and approximately 75 jobs after construction either directly in the theater or among businesses that are expected to spring up within the area of the theater.

Plans include the preservation and restoration of the architectural integrity of the theater, the historic lighting fixtures – including the grand chandelier – and other architectural finishes. New theater seats will match the original 1927 design, and plush draperies and stage curtains will be manufactured and installed. In addition, new and expanded restrooms, a fire suppression system, a lobby bar, a 1,500 square foot patron lounge, and a new state of the art box office will be added. 

The entire roof, HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems will also be replaced. A building addition will be constructed at the rear of the historic theater to accommodate dressing and storage rooms, a kitchen, and temporary storage. The first floor of the theater and building addition will be fully ADA-compliant.

Restoring this theatre will breathe new life into the surrounding community and County Council is extremely supportive of this project and is looking forward to enjoying the theater next fall when it opens.

Restoration Project Architect: Atkin Olshin Schade Architects is the contracted restoration project architect, with engineering work being provided by Keast & Hood (structural), H. Gilroy Damon and Associates (civil), Bruce Brooks & Associates (mechanical), Accentech (A/V and Acoustics). Columbus Construction is the Construction Manager.

Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer announced this week that charges have been brought against David Zandstra, 83, of Marietta, Georgia, for the 1975 abduction and murder of eight-year-old Gretchen Harrington of Marple Township.

Zandstra has been charged with criminal homicide, murder of the first, second, and third degree, as well as kidnapping of a minor and the possession of an instrument of crime.

“The murder of Gretchen Harrington has haunted members of law enforcement since that terrible day in August 1975. This heinous act left a family and a community forever changed. At long last I can announce today that her killer—David Zandstra—has admitted to his crime. Justice has been a long time coming, but we are proud and grateful to finally be able to give the community an answer,” said District Attorney Stollsteimer.

On the morning of August 15, 1975, Gretchen Harrington left her home in Marple Township to walk to her nearby summer bible camp, which utilized two local churches.

The defendant, David Zandstra, pastor of the Trinity Church Chapel Christian Reform Church, was responsible for transporting the children from Trinity to the second camp location at the Reformed Presbyterian Church. When Gretchen didn’t show up at the second camp location, the defendant contacted the Marple Police Department to report the victim’s disappearance.

Two months later, on October 14, 1975, skeletal remains were found at Ridley Creek State Park and identified as those of Gretchen Harrington.

Efforts to solve the case continued over the years, and on January 2, 2023, investigators conducted an interview of an individual who provided fresh evidence that led investigators to Zandstra, who was residing in Marietta, Georgia.

Contact was made with the Cobb County Police Department, and investigators traveled there to meet with the defendant on July 17, 2023. Although initially denying his involvement in Gretchen’s disappearance, after being confronted with the evidence, the defendant admitted to seeing Gretchen walking alone along Lawrence Road on the morning of her disappearance, offering her a ride, and taking her to a nearby wooded area where the victim was murdered. 

“Justice does not have an expiration date. Whether a crime happened fifty years ago or five minutes ago, the residents of the Commonwealth can have confidence that law enforcement will not rest until justice is served,” said Lieutenant Jonathan Sunderlin of the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP). He continued, “This case has been investigated by generations of detectives, and they all are owed a debt of gratitude for never giving up. Particular recognition is due today to Corporal Andrew J. Martin, of the Criminal Investigation Assessment Unit, Missing Persons Unit, Troop K. His determination to build upon the work of his predecessors, and his belief that the case could still be solved, have been instrumental in getting us to today’s announcement.” 

“Numerous law enforcement agencies have been involved in this case over the years, and we must also recognize the work and dedication of the Marple Police Department, particularly Chief Brandon Graeff. Like the state police, they never gave up hope that Gretchen’s killer would be identified, and they should be recognized for their tenacious pursuit of justice,” said District Attorney Stollsteimer. “I also want to acknowledge and thank Deputy District Attorney Stephanie Wills and Deputy District Attorney Geoff Paine, both of whom have contributed to ensuring that justice is secured for Gretchen and her family,” said Stollsteimer.

The Harrington family released a statement that read, in part, “With today's announcement of an arrest, we are extremely hopeful that the person who is responsible for the heinous crime that was committed against our Gretchen will be held accountable.”

“Today’s announcement is a testament to the power of perseverance, and a family and community's commitment to justice,” said Michelle DeLaune, president and CEO of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. “Regardless of how much time has passed, we know answers can be found. As we mark this achievement, we applaud the incredible efforts of the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Marple Township Police and their partner law enforcement agencies, for their unwavering dedication in this case.”

Zandstra has been denied bail and remains in jail in Cobb County, Georgia. The defendant refused to waive extradition to Pennsylvania. The District Attorney’s office will be submitting a petition for requisition which will be sent to Governor Shapiro for his approval. 

A DNA sample was collected from the defendant and will be compared to DNA collected in open cases in Pennsylvania and across the country. Following his residence in Pennsylvania, Defendant Zandstra lived in the Plano, TX, and Marietta, GA, area. Anyone with additional information about Zandstra’s activities when he was living in Texas or in Georgia are asked to call the Pennsylvania State Police.

For more information, read the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office press release, linked below.

Delaware County is pleased to offer a fourth round of its popular municipal grant program for open space, trails, and recreation. The grant program, Delco Green Ways, makes funds available to municipalities (and non-profit organizations working with municipalities), for projects that advance the goals of the Delaware County 2035 Open Space, Recreation and Greenway Plan: Conserve, Enhance, Connect. 

Building upon the success of the previous rounds, the fourth round of the Delco Green Ways Grant Program is tailored to meet the unique needs of Delaware County communities. The program includes four broad funding categories, including: “Conserve” (open space and natural features); “Enhance” (environmental and recreational uses); “Connect (communities, cultural/historic resources, and natural features); and “Planning & Design” (future amenities in a prioritized, strategic fashion).

The ease of application remains, as do the kinds of projects eligible for funding. Eligible municipal or multi-municipal projects may include fee simple acquisition of land, conservation or trail easements on private land, capital improvements to existing public parkland, regreening efforts, construction of trails, and plans such as comprehensive open space plans, feasibility studies, design, and engineering plans.

A comprehensive list of eligible project types, program guidelines, sample grant applications, and the online application are available on the Delco Green Ways Grant Program website at delcopa.gov/greenways. 

Delco Green Ways Grant Round 4 Highlights:

• Maximum grant amounts in each category are unchanged
• A grant match is not required, but submissions including a match (either cash or in-kind services) receive a scoring bonus
• Projects in areas identified by regional or state agencies as “potentially disadvantaged” or as “Environmental Justice Areas” receive a scoring bonus
• “Conserve” projects for conservation easements require significant public benefit but do not require public access
• “Enhance” projects have a 15% allowance of the total project cost for planning and design expenses
• “Connect” projects for trail design & engineering have a $250,000 cap unless they are part of the Primary Trail Network. 
• Applications include standard grant agreements that awardees must sign before the distribution of award money
• Electronic signatures are accepted for the purposes of submitting applications, executing contracts, and submitting payment requests.

Additional Administrative Requirements for Round 4:

• Planning projects will need to have their RFP and Consultant selection approved by the Green Ways Program before receiving the first award payment.
• Conserve Projects grantees will need to submit closing documents for approval by the Green Ways Program prior to release of the final award payment.

Round 4 Application Period:

The application period for Round 4 of the Green Ways Grant Program officially opens on Monday, July 31, 2023, and closes September 29, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. 

Awards will be announced by County Council later in the fall. 

Round 4 Eligibility:

• Municipalities in Delaware County
• Multiple municipalities in Delaware County working in partnership on a project
• Private non-profit organizations with IRS (501(c)(3) status and in operation for at least three years who have formed a partnership with a municipality for the project as evident in a municipal resolution.

Grant Program Question and Answer Sessions:

During the open application period, two virtual Q&A sessions have been scheduled for September 7, from 6:00 p.m.- 7:00 p.m., and on September 12, from 2:00 p.m.- 3:00 p.m.

For additional information regarding the Q&As, including Q&A registration links, please visit the Delco Green Ways Grant Program web page, linked below.  

Delaware County Court of Common Pleas President Judge Linda A. Cartisano has issued an administrative order that significantly reduces the bail administration fee — the portion of an individual’s posted bail that is retained as a fee and not returned to the individual at the conclusion of their case — for all Delaware County defendants.

Prior to the change, issued on July 24, 2023, Delaware County’s 40% bail retention fee was one of the highest fee rates among Pennsylvania counties. A person accused of a crime with a cash bail amount of $10,000, and who was required to post 10% to remain out of jail while their case was pending, would have previously needed to pay $400 in administration fees (40% of the $1,000 posted). This fee imposed a heavy burden on many individuals and families.

The new rule, effective twenty days from the date of the order, imposes a flat fee of $25 plus 3% of the first $1,000 of bail posted and 2% of any amount above $1,000. Now, a defendant who is issued a $10,000 bail, and who will be required to post 10% to stay out of jail pre-trial, will pay just $55 in administration fees: $25 + 3% of the $1,000 posted. This greatly eases the financial burden and will allow individuals to keep significantly more of the bail money posted.

The decision to reduce the bail fee was accomplished through the thoughtful and considered actions of many stakeholders. Delaware County Council unanimously approved a recommendation to adopt the new rule. The Delaware County Criminal Justice Advisory Board, led by the Honorable John Capuzzi, Sr, unanimously approved the adoption of the rule. The Honorable Linda Cartisano issued the administrative order effecting this important change.

“This rule change will have a real and practical benefit for many in Delaware County who are involved in the criminal justice system,” said Delaware County Councilman Kevin Madden. “A disproportionate number of people in the criminal justice system are low-income. We should not be incarcerating based on who can or cannot afford to walk away from 40% of their posted bail. I am grateful to President Judge Cartisano for supporting this important change to the administration of justice in Delaware County.”

With the rule change, Delaware County’s bail administration fee is now in line with most other counties in the Commonwealth.   

“We applaud President Judge Cartisano, County Council, and the Criminal Justice Advisory Board for working together to change this policy that disproportionality impacted our clients and their families,” said Delaware County Public Defender’s Office First Assistant Lee Awbrey. “Bail is not supposed to be a punishment or a tax. A grandmother posting $1,000 to keep her grandchild out of jail before trial should not get only $600 back when the case is over. This is an example of good government at work.”

“The change in the bail fee may not make headlines, but it is a superb example of our elected officials working together to solve a problem,” said District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer. “County Council, President Judge Cartisano, and the members of the Criminal Justice Advisory Board all recognized the disproportionate impact the previous fee structure had on indigent defendants. In substantially reducing those fees, Delaware County officials have taken a step that aligns its values with its practices. Everyone who contributed to this important change should be congratulated on this important step.” 

The rule change reducing the Delaware County bail administration fee represents one more step in the process to improve the county criminal justice system to provide for the fair administration of justice.   

County Council will continue working with our partners and stakeholders to bring beneficial reforms to the criminal justice system to ensure fair, efficient, and equitable treatment of individuals and their families.  

The Delaware County Health Department will hold a second round of Community Conversation health events to be held in Chester on Wed., Aug. 9 from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. and in Concord Township on Thurs., Aug. 10, from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 

These Community Conversations are an opportunity for residents to share their thoughts regarding existing barriers to good health, community factors that guide healthy choices, and insights for improving health opportunities in Delaware County. 

The conversations will also include time to talk about how Opioid Settlement Funds should be used to address the opioid epidemic in Delaware County.

Chester 

Access Community Center

701 Booth St., Chester, PA 19013

August 9, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

RSVP Here

Concord Township

Concord Township Municipal Building

43 Thornton Rd., Glen Mills, PA 19342

August 10, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

RSVP Here

These events are open to all in Delaware County and are not limited to residents living in the municipalities the events are held. Each event will include a brief presentation, followed by table discussions about health in Delaware County.

A healthy meal will be provided at each event, and children are welcome to attend. Volunteers are available to help look after kids at the craft table while parents join in the conversation.

Attendees are asked to please arrive 10 minutes early for registration.

RSVPs are requested to assist with planning but are not required. Click the RSVP links above to sign up, or call the Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100. 

Results from the Community Conversations will help the Delaware County Health Department and its partners set health priorities and develop a plan to address the health needs of residents across the county. 

Reminder: Take the Delaware County Community Health Survey!

The Delaware County Community Health Survey, first launched in May, will remain open through August 31. All individuals are strongly encouraged to complete the survey, but people of color, males of all races, young adults (ages 18-24), people with high school or GED as highest level of education, those with an annual household income of less than $50,000, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community are underrepresented in responses to-date and are asked to complete the survey and spread the word to others. 

More responses are also needed from residents of Chester City, Collingdale, Colwyn, Darby, Eddystone, Folcroft, Millbourne, Newtown, Radnor, Tinicum, Upland, and Upper Darby. 

The survey and preliminary results are available by clicking the button below.

Active members of the U.S. Coast Guard and Coast Guard Veterans are invited to join County officials in the raising of the U.S. Coast Guard flag on Friday, August 4 at 10:00 a.m. in front of the Courthouse, located at 201 West Front Street in Media.

The flag will be raised to commemorate the anniversary of the U.S. Coast Guard, which was established on August 4, 1790. It will fly from the flagpole in the courtyard of the Government Center and Courthouse complex throughout the week. 

Throughout the year, the County raises flags in honor of all branches of the military and invites active military and Veterans to join in the flag raisings.

Council extends its gratitude to all of those who have served or are serving, protecting our country.

The Delaware County Department of Parks & Recreation annual Rose Tree Park Summer Festival concert series continues, with free concerts scheduled throughout the summer, Wednesdays through Sundays, typically at 7:30 p.m.

Below is the slate of upcoming concerts!

Concerts are weather permitting; there are no rain dates. Admission and parking are free and handicapped parking is available.

For the complete schedule, visit the Rose Tree Summer Festival website (linked below). For more information — including recorded messaging about cancelations that may occur due to inclement weather or air quality concerns — please call (610) 891-4455.

Delaware County Council’s next Preliminary Agenda Meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 1, with a start time of 10:00 a.m.

The Regular Public Meeting, held on the day following the Preliminary Agenda Meeting, is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 2.

What are “Preliminary Agenda Meetings” and “Regular Public Meetings”?

Council holds bi-weekly Preliminary Agenda Meetings, typically on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, for the purpose of updating themselves, other government representatives in attendance, and the public on matters of discussion pertaining to County Government before Council votes on agenda items at the Regular Public Meeting scheduled for the following evening.

During the Regular Public Meetings, County Council members discuss County activities and important developments, make announcements, issue reports and resolutions, and review and vote upon administrative matters ranging from County contracts and purchases to agreements, ordinances and amendments to the County code.

In addition to County Council members, the Chief Administrative Officer, County Controller, County Solicitor, and County Clerk, invited speakers, and members of the public are typically present during these meetings.

County Council meetings are open to the public and Council encourages public participation. Meetings are held in the County Council Meeting room, on the first floor of the Government Center Building at 201 W. Front St., in Media, PA.

Downloadable agendas, including key documents related to items enumerated on the agenda, are available for download from the County website linked below as are full recordings of all County Council meetings. The website also includes a link to the live-stream of any County Council meetings in session.

Delaware County Govt Official 2023 Calendar

Meet your Delaware County Council members

The Delaware County Health Department website