The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!

—— January 31, 2025 (158th edition) ——

The Delaware County Conservation District (DCCD), in partnership with Penn State Extension, is excited to announce the upcoming Master Watershed Steward (MWS) Program Informational Session on Thursday, February 6, at 7:00 p.m.

This partnership-based program is a one hour webinar, that provides introductory education, hands-on training, and a network of dedicated volunteers committed to protecting and improving local waterways.

Who Are Master Watershed Stewards?

Master Watershed Stewards are trained volunteers who play a vital role in preserving the health, quality, and beauty of our waterways. This engaging program welcomes individuals passionate about environmental conservation, regardless of prior experience.

What Do Stewards Do?

All volunteers complete a Basic Training program covering fundamental watershed health topics. Since everyone lives in a watershed, projects typically take place in streams, along shorelines, and across the land. Examples of past projects include:

• Watershed-Friendly certification
• Native tree and streamside plantings
• Rain garden installations and stormwater infiltration basin naturalization plantings
• Community outreach and education at festivals and schools

What Will you Learn During this MWS Info Session?

• Volunteer efforts in which MWS volunteers participate
• Partnerships established by the MWS program
• Topics covered during the training program
• The application process to become an MWS
• Program costs and associated fees

Delaware County Conservation Director Karen Wilwol provides instruction to MWS volunteers for the morning's activities

Critical Partnerships & Community Impact

Penn State Extension is a key partner in advancing watershed conservation efforts, working closely with the Delaware County Conservation District on impactful projects that protect and enhance local ecosystems. These initiatives include Master Watershed Steward (MWS) Basic Training for new volunteers, stormwater infiltration basin plantings, meadow restoration workshops, streambank repair projects, residential conservation guidance, and youth education programs.

Beyond Penn State Extension, a strong network of partners helps drive this important work. Delaware County Parks & Recreation, the Delaware County Office of Sustainability, local watershed associations, school districts, nonprofits, and other environmental organizations all play a role in supporting these initiatives.

Together, these partnerships provide education, resources, and hands-on opportunities to foster environmental stewardship across Delaware County. We hope you can join us!

Online Info Session Details & Registration

Thursday, February 6

7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Online Webinar | Click Here to Register

For for more information about the MWS program and questions about the Info Session, contact Meagan Hopkins-Doerr, Chester & Delaware Counties Coordinator, by email at mxh1135@psu.edu or by phone at (484) 472-5115.

Stream Workshop held in Smedley Park 2024

Check out this short Penn State Extension Master Watershed Steward recruitment video

More About the Delaware County Conservation District

The Delaware County Conservation District is a state-affiliated yet County-operated service, guided by a volunteer board appointed by County Council. The District evaluates environmental challenges, implements conservation programs, and advocates for sustainable solutions to protect natural resources.

Learn more on the Delaware County Conservation District website.

The Delaware County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA), in collaboration with the PA Department of Aging, is offering a free program this winter to help older adults reduce their risk of falling.

The program, titled A Matter of Balance, is a virtual, evidence-based program designed to help adults age 60 and older improve their strength, flexibility, and balance while addressing the fear of falling—an often-overlooked factor that increases fall risk—and emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls.

Studies show that falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injury among older adults, and every 20 minutes in the U.S., a senior dies from a fall. However, many falls are preventable with the right knowledge and exercises.

This eight-session program will be held virtually on Zoom, making it accessible from the comfort of home. Sessions will take place on Fridays, February 7 through March 28, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Participants Will Learn To:

• View falls as controllable
• Set goals for increasing activity
• Make changes to reduce fall risks at home
• Exercise to increase strength and balance

Who Should Attend?

• Anyone concerned about falls
• Anyone interested in improving balance, flexibility, and strength
• Anyone who has fallen in the past
• Anyone who has restricted activities because of falling concerns

Registration Details

Registration is required. To sign up, contact Ellen Williams at williamse@co.delaware.pa.us or call (610) 499-1937. Please provide your name, address, phone number, and email.

Over $100K in Unclaimed Funds Available to Delaware County Residents and Organizations

Hundreds of Delaware County residents, businesses, and nonprofits are owed unclaimed funds—sometimes totaling thousands of dollars—from the County of Delaware. Currently, Delaware County has over 750 listings of unclaimed funds, with amounts ranging from a few dollars to $8,000, totaling more than $113,000 County-wide.

These funds, often from uncashed or undeliverable checks, result from transactions such as vendor payments, polling site rentals, or reimbursements. There are many reasons why funds go unclaimed.

Sometimes people move without leaving a forwarding address, making it impossible for checks to reach them. In other cases, checks get lost in the mail, misplaced, or accidentally destroyed.

The Delaware County Controller’s Office, led by Joanne Phillips, Esquire, has worked diligently to make the process of claiming these funds simple and accessible, and is dedicated to helping Delaware County residents recover their unclaimed funds.

The County launched an Unclaimed Funds section (linked below) on its website last summer allowing individuals to search for their names, view amounts owed, and follow a user-friendly process to reclaim their money.

“Our goal is to ensure that individuals, businesses, and organizations in Delaware County can recover funds that rightfully belong to them,” said Phillips. “Whether it’s $50 or $5,000, this money could make a real difference, especially in today’s economic climate.”

How to Search for Unclaimed Funds

To search the Unclaimed Funds List to determine if you, a loved one, or business may be owed funds from the County, visit the Controller's Office Unclaimed Funds web page and click on the link titled "Unclaimed Funds Listing."

Open the Unclaimed Funds List document, and scroll through the alphabetical listing of individuals and organizations that are due money.

How to Submit a Claim

To claim funds, complete the downloadable claim form found on the Controller's Office Unclaimed Funds web page. The page provides a downloadable form with clear filing instructions.

All submissions must include appropriate documentation.

• For individuals: Include a photo ID and proof of address.
• For businesses: Submit a claim on company letterhead with authorization.
• For deceased individuals: Provide estate documentation, such as a death certificate and proof of executorship.

For claims exceeding $250, your signature must be notarized to ensure the rightful payee receives the funds. The good news is that notary services are widely accessible. You can find notaries at local banks, shipping centers, and even online through virtual notary services, making it easy to complete this important step.

Once the form and documentation is completed, mail your claim to the following address: 

County of Delaware Joanne Phillips, Controller 

Attn. Jeffrey Powers, First Deputy Controller 

201 W. Front Street

Media, PA 19063  

Forms and associated documentation must be submitted via the U.S. Postal Service—faxed or emailed forms will not be accepted.

Avoid Fees from Third Parties

Residents are cautioned about using third-party agencies offering to help claim funds for a fee or commission. “You don’t need to pay anyone to recover your money," said Controller Phillips. "This service is completely free through the County or the Pennsylvania Treasury Department."

Nothing Listed?

The County is mandated to hold unclaimed funds for three years before transferring them to the State Treasury, where they become part of a larger unclaimed property pool.

If your name does not appear on the County’s list, you are encouraged to search the Pennsylvania Treasury’s Unclaimed Property Database.

We hope you find something!

Delaware County Women’s Commission Extends Deadline for 2025 Annual Awards Nominations

The Delaware County Women’s Commission (DCWC) is extending the deadline for nominations for its Annual Awards, recognizing outstanding women who have made a lasting impact on Delaware County. Nominations will now be accepted until Friday, February 7.

Each year, DCWC honors three exceptional women whose contributions have strengthened our communities, advanced opportunities for others, and inspired future generations. Whether through leadership, mentorship, or advocacy, these honorees have played a pivotal role in shaping Delaware County’s present and future.

This year’s celebration is part of Women’s History Month, which in 2025 embraces the theme, “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.” The theme highlights the invaluable role of women in education, mentorship, and leadership, recognizing those who have guided, taught, and empowered others.

The 2025 DCWC Annual Awards Brunch, taking place on Saturday, March 29, will provide a special opportunity to honor these remarkable women and their contributions to the county.

Now is the time to shine a light on the inspiring women in your life. Submit a nomination before February 7 and help recognize those who are making a difference!

Call for Nominations

DCWC invites the community to nominate outstanding women who exemplify this year’s theme. Nominations are open to current or past residents of Delaware County in the following categories:

• Woman of Distinction (Past): Honors the memory of a deceased female leader.
• Woman of Achievement (Present): Recognizes a current visionary leader actively driving positive change.
• Woman of Inspiration (Future): Celebrates a young woman under 45 who is already making a difference today.

To submit a nomination, visit the DCWC Women’s History Month Awards web page. If your nominee is selected, you will be notified and asked to present the award at the brunch.

Event Details - Purchase Your Tickets Today

The brunch will spotlight the incredible contributions of women in shaping our democracy, fostering innovation, and inspiring future generations.

Saturday, March 29, 2025

The Austin Room

1405 Meetinghouse Road, Boothwyn, PA 19061

Tickets for the event are now available on the DCWC webpage.

Support the Event - Sponsorships Available

Interested in sponsoring the brunch? Sponsorship opportunities are available until March 3, 2025. Sponsors will show their commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion while supporting the work of the Women’s Commission.

For questions about nominations, sponsorships, or the event, email DelCoWomensCommission@delcohsa.org or visit the DCWC web page for more information.

Let’s come together to celebrate the women who are shaping our present and future while honoring those who paved the way!

Delaware County is inviting residents to apply for two open seats on the Delaware County Planning Commission, a vital advisory body that has been shaping the County’s future since its establishment in 1950. The Commission provides thoughtful recommendations on subdivision and land development proposals, as outlined by the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code, helping municipalities make informed decisions about growth and development.

The deadline to apply is Friday, February 7.

Supported by the staff of the Delaware County Planning Department, the Commission meets monthly to review development proposals, zoning ordinances, and land use regulations.

These public meetings, held on the third Thursday of each month at 4:00 p.m. in the Government Center Building in Media, offer an excellent opportunity for community engagement in the County’s planning efforts.

The current openings are for one at-large-member from anywhere in Delaware County and the second is for a member from Planning District 6 which includes Bethel Township, Chadds Ford Township, Chester Heights Borough, Concord Township, Thornbury Township.

How to Apply

To be considered, submit your resume and a letter of interest via email to the Delaware County Clerk at DelcoBoards@co.delaware.pa.us. For more information about this opportunity and other board vacancies, visit DelcoPA.Gov/Board-Vacancies.

Join us in shaping the future of Delaware County through thoughtful and inclusive planning.

For the 36th year, Delaware County Libraries and the Mad Poets Society are excited to announce the Delaware County Young Poets Competition.

Entries are being accepted now through April 4, 2025.

All first through twelfth grade students living or attending school in Delaware County are invited to submit one original poem to any of the 28 Delaware County locations or online at http://www.delcolibraries.org/poetry-contest.

Poems will be judged by grade level and may not have previously won an award. Original poems must be typed and on 8 ½” by 11” paper.

Please include student’s name, phone number, address, email (no school emails), grade, and school on the top right (front) of the poem. If the information is not listed, the entry will be disqualified. Contact information is for notification purposes only and will not be shared. 

First, second, and third place winners from each grade level will be contacted by email by May 4. Winning poems will be published in our annual poetry anthology and posted on Delaware County Libraries’ website, as well as the Mad Poets Society’s website. The Young Poets Competition will culminate in a special awards ceremony and reading.

For information on this contest, contact Cheri Crow, Coordinator of Youth Services for Delaware County Libraries, at ccrow@delcolibraries.org or email info@madpoetssociety.com.

Delaware County Libraries is an agency of county government that provides support services for 26 independent member libraries. For information about the wide range of library services available to all county residents, visit the Delaware County Library website.

Delaware County is pleased to announce the opening of the new Orange Street Parking Lot for metered public parking on evenings and weekends, starting Sunday, February 2—one day earlier than previously announced.

The earlier opening will allow Eagles fans attending Media Borough’s Pep Rally and Parade another free parking option before the Sunday celebration begins at 3:00 p.m.

Free Parking for County Council Meetings on Wednesdays!

In addition to providing new parking option that will provide additional convenient access to downtown Media throughout the week, the lot will also serve as a convenient and free parking option for residents attending the bi-weekly County Council meetings held Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m. at the Government Center.

“We’ve listened to the community’s concerns about parking availability, and we’re proud to provide a convenient, new option for residents and visitors,” said Delaware County Council Member Christine Reuther.

Orange Street Parking Lot Location

The lot is located at 301 W. Front Street, between Citron and N. Orange Street, adjacent to Delaware County Courthouse and Government Center Complex.

Orange Street Parking Lot Public Hours

• Monday through Friday: 5:00 p.m. to 12 midnight (regular metered rates apply through 8:00 p.m.). The lot remains reserved for County employees during business hours.
• Weekends: 8:00 a.m. to 12 midnight (regular metered rates apply through 8:00 p.m. on Saturdays). Sundays are free to all visitors.

Overnight parking and the use of the County’s new EV charging stations in this lot are not permitted. When metered rates are in effect, visitors can use pay kiosks located outside of the parking lot on Front Street and Orange Street, or use the Passport Parking App.

The County is happy to offer Eagles fans additional parking for Sunday’s rally and provide residents and visitors more parking options every weeknight and weekend going forward.

Go Eagles, and we hope to see you at an upcoming Council Meeting!

This free event offers an exciting opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in walking and biking infrastructure throughout the western suburbs of Philadelphia, including Delaware County. 

Hosted by the Delaware County Trails Alliance, Delaware County Planning Department, Friends of Haverford Trails, and Haverford Recreation Department, the summit brings together regional planners, local governments, advocacy groups, and consultants to share updates and insights.

What to Expect

• Updates on recently completed trail sections.
• Overviews of ongoing planning and design efforts for future trails.
• Discussions about improving biking and walking mobility in our communities.
• Opportunities to learn how you can help prioritize and advocate for better connectivity in your area.
• At 12:30 p.m., attendees can participate in a guided trail walk through the forests of Andy Lewis Community Park, departing directly from the summit venue.

Registration Information

While the summit is free and walk-ins are welcome (subject to space), attendees are encouraged to register in advance to streamline entry and facilitate planning for refreshments. Presenters are pre-registered and do not need to sign up. To register, visit SignUpGenius Registration.

Explore Past Summits

For agendas and presenters’ materials from previous summits, visit the Haverford Trails website.

This annual event is an excellent opportunity for residents to engage in the region’s trail planning efforts and play an active role in shaping the future of walking and biking in Delaware County and beyond.

Don’t miss your chance to connect with fellow trail advocates, learn about exciting projects, and explore the beautiful trails of Haverford!

Eagles fans, get ready to show your Delco pride! Media Borough is hosting an Eagles Pep Rally and Parade along State Street in Media on Sunday, February 2, from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m.

The celebration will feature the official Eagles Pep Band, The South Philly String Band, The Ferko String Band, Delco’s own Aunt Mary Pat, Ultimate Eaglezphan Shaun Young, floats, surprises, and more!

Wear your best Eagles gear (or something green) and join in the excitement!

While this is not a County government event, members of County Council and County leadership will be joining the festivities. Whether you're a lifelong Birds fan or just looking for a fun afternoon, this is an event you won’t want to miss.

Come out, bring your energy, and let’s rally for the Eagles!

Your Delaware County Council Members

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