The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!

—— February 21, 2025 (161st Edition) ——

Delaware County Health Department Launches “Lead-Free in 1-2-3”

New family-facing lead awareness campaign uses engaging "Lead Monsters" to illustrate the risks of lead

Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor was excited to join Delaware County Health Department Director Lora Werner and the DCHD team on Tuesday for the launch of "Lead-Free in 1-2-3," a comprehensive awareness campaign aimed at reducing lead poisoning in the area.

Centered on the theme "Is Lead Lurking in Your Home?," the campaign, launched at Widener University’s Child Development Center in Chester with a special children's book reading of Happy, Healthy, Lead-Free Me! by Council Chair Taylor, seeks to educate Delaware County children and parents about the dangers of lead exposure, promote testing, and share prevention strategies.

The campaign takes a friendly yet informative approach, using engaging "Lead Monsters" to illustrate the risks while reassuring families that lead poisoning is preventable with the right precautions.

Lead poisoning is particularly concerning for young children and pregnant women, as exposure can lead to serious health issues such as slowed brain development, lower IQ, and speech and hearing problems.

"Many families may not realize that lead hazards still exist, especially in older homes built before 1978," said Delaware County Health Department Director Lora Siegmann Werner. "Data from 2022 in Delaware County shows that 307 children out of 9,438 tested were found to have elevated blood lead levels. Our goal is for this campaign to help families, landlords, municipalities, health professionals, and other partners understand this is still a concern in Delaware County and there are steps we can take together to protect our children.”

Key components of the campaign include:

Community Partner Outreach: Engagement with local municipalities, healthcare providers, and community organizations.
Digital and Printed Materials: Posters, social media content, and informational videos.
Public Awareness Efforts: Billboards, bus shelter posters, and social media promotions.
Giveaways & Support Tools: Community informational events, free HEPA filter vacuums, baby bibs, water bottles, and "Lead Monster" magnets to reinforce the campaign’s message.

"I’m incredibly excited about this initiative because it brings a fresh, dynamic perspective to lead poisoning prevention," said Dr. Taylor. "Director Werner and our DCHD team have embraced an innovative and engaging strategy that not only educates but inspires. By reaching out to children and parents alike, we are taking significant steps to safeguard our community’s health and move the needle on public well-being in Delaware County."

"Widener University is proud to support the launch of this campaign by welcoming county officials to our Child Development Center," said Robin Dole, dean of the College of Health and Human Services. "Lead poisoning prevention is critically important for the health of our community's children. We are happy to partner with Delaware County in their efforts to raise awareness."

Residents can find essential information about lead poisoning, prevention tips, data, and local testing resources at LeadFree123.org.or on the Delaware County Health Department website at DelcoPA.Gov/Lead.

The campaign, funded by a $188,819 grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, reflects Delaware County’s continued commitment to protecting public health and ensuring that all children have the opportunity to grow up in a lead-free environment.

Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor, DCHD Director Lora Werner, and the DCHD Team showing off some of the 'Lead-Free in 1-2-3' promotional materials that will help kids avoid the dangers of lead.

Delaware County Council Approves $1 Million Grant for Lead Safety Initiatives

This week, Delaware County Council voted unanimously to accept $1 million in funds from the HUD Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes Office to enhance lead safety across the community. The grant is earmarked for lead abatement in 35 residences that house children under the age of six, part of a targeted effort to reduce the risk of lead poisoning among the county’s most vulnerable residents.

Phil Welsh, Director of Housing and Community Development, noted that lead exposure remains a serious concern, particularly in older buildings where lead-based paint and pipes are common. With lead poisoning known to affect young children and pregnant women—potentially causing developmental delays and other long-term health issues—the council’s decision is seen as a proactive step toward safeguarding public health.

The initiative, which will be supported with required 10% match from Community Development Block Grant and Affordable Housing funds, underscores the County’s commitment to preventive action. Addressing lead hazards prevents more serious consequences later, ensuring a healthier future for families across Delaware County.

This funding decision follows closely on the heels of the Delaware County Health Department’s Tuesday launch of the “Lead-Free 1-2-3” campaign—a campaign focused on raising awareness about lead risks and equipping residents with the information they need to identify and mitigate potential hazards in their homes.

By combining robust public education efforts with targeted financial support, Delaware County is taking significant strides toward a safer environment. County Council and DCHD encourage residents to remain informed about lead risks and take advantage of the available resources to protect their families.

Delaware County Council Honors Pennsylvania’s 2025 Teacher of the Year and Superintendent of the Year

This week, Delaware County Council was thrilled to host two extraordinary local educators—Mr. Leon Smith, the 2025 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year, and Dr. Tina Kane, the 2025 Pennsylvania Superintendent of the Year—at the February 19 Delaware County Council Meeting held at the Government Center in Media.

Mr. Leon Smith, a social studies and African American studies teacher at Haverford High School, was named Pennsylvania’s Teacher of the Year by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, while Dr. Tina Kane, Superintendent of the Marple Newtown School District, was selected as Pennsylvania’s Superintendent of the Year by the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators. These statewide recognitions highlight not only their personal dedication but also the strength of Delaware County’s educational leadership.

With 67 counties across Pennsylvania, it is a remarkable distinction for Delaware County to be home to both of this year’s top education honorees. This achievement reflects the excellence of our schools, the dedication of our educators, and the strong commitment to education throughout the county.

Recognizing Two Leaders in Education

Mr. Leon Smith, a social studies and African American studies teacher at Haverford High School, has spent more than 20 years inspiring students and shaping the future of education. His commitment to representation in the classroom ensures that every student sees themselves reflected in their educators. His recognition as Pennsylvania’s Teacher of the Year reflects his dedication, leadership, and profound impact on the students and community he serves.

"I think it’s important for students to realize the power of educators and how our influence extends outside of the classroom," said Mr. Smith. "We really need to elevate the profession. Right now, we’re in a teacher shortage, and it’s vital that we inspire the next generation of teachers."

Dr. Tina Kane, Superintendent of the Marple Newtown School District, has spent over 30 years in education—first as a teacher, then as a principal, and now as superintendent. Under her leadership, Marple Newtown has seen significant advancements in STEM education and social-emotional learning, preparing students for the challenges of the modern world.

Dr. Kane, a graduate of Marple Newtown High School, reflected on the deep meaning of receiving this recognition from the county where she was raised and now serves.

"This award is especially meaningful because Delaware County is home to me. I was born and raised here, a proud graduate of Marple Newtown High School, and now have the privilege of serving the very community that shaped me," said Dr. Kane.

She also credited the educators, administrators, and families in her district for their contributions to student success.

"Our success is built on teachers who inspire, administrators who lead with purpose, families who support us, and staff who care deeply for every student’s needs. Together, we strengthen not just our district, but the entire county," she added.

Haverford High School's Leon Smith announced as the 2025 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year at the PA Department of Educations annual professional development conference in Hershey.

Investing in Future Educators

As Delaware County celebrates these two remarkable educators, Council also highlighted the Teacher Education Program (TEP), an innovative initiative that prepares high school juniors for careers in education by offering up to 38 college credits at no cost.

This groundbreaking program, currently available at Haverford High and Marple Newtown High Schools, gives students a head start on their careers in education by combining early exposure, college-level coursework, and hands-on teaching experience.

Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor emphasized how TEP reflects Delaware County’s commitment to supporting the next generation of educators.

"As someone deeply invested in the education and advancement of our community, I find it essential to highlight programs like TEP, which create a pipeline of future educators and ensure we continue to build a strong foundation for students across the county," Dr. Taylor said.

A Moment of Delco Pride

Wednesday’s celebration of Mr. Smith and Dr. Kane was more than just a recognition of their personal achievements—it was a reflection of Delaware County’s leadership in education and the excellence of its schools.

County Council is immensely proud that both Pennsylvania’s Teacher of the Year and Superintendent of the Year are from Delaware County, reinforcing the County’s reputation for educational excellence and innovation, and congratulates Mr. Leon Smith and Dr. Tina Kane on their incredible achievements and their dedication to students, educators, and the entire Delaware County community.

Congratulations again to both honorees!

Delaware County Adopts Vision Zero Action Plan to Improve Road Safety

On February 19, 2025, Delaware County Council officially adopted a Vision Zero Action Plan, a comprehensive, data-driven initiative aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and severe injury crashes on roadways. With this resolution, Delaware County becomes the first county in Pennsylvania to adopt a Vision Zero plan, reinforcing its commitment to making streets safer for everyone.

Vision Zero is a proactive approach to road safety that recognizes traffic deaths and severe injuries are preventable, not inevitable. The plan focuses on safer road design, lower speeds, equitable enforcement, and community education to ensure that everyone—whether driving, biking, walking, or using mobility devices—can travel safely.

“Traffic fatalities are not accidents—they are preventable,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “Through this Vision Zero Action Plan, we are committing to policies and investments that prioritize safety and save lives. Our goal is clear: zero fatalities, zero serious injuries, and safer streets for all.”

Delaware County Planning Department Director Gina Burritt emphasized the significance of Vision Zero, explaining how this initiative shifts the focus from reactive safety measures to a proactive, system-wide approach.

“Vision Zero challenges us to rethink how we approach road safety,” Burritt said. “Instead of placing the burden on individuals to ‘be more careful,’ we look at the whole system—road design, speed limits, and infrastructure—to prevent crashes from happening in the first place.”

A Collaborative Approach to Safer Streets

Unlike some counties that directly own and manage roads, Delaware County does not own or maintain roadways—a responsibility that falls primarily to local municipalities and PennDOT. However, the Vision Zero Action Plan provides a clear, data-driven framework that municipalities can adopt to implement safety improvements in their communities.

The Delaware County Planning Department will work closely with municipalities by providing guidance, technical support, and resources to help implement the plan’s recommendations. By partnering with local governments, the County aims to coordinate safety strategies, improve infrastructure, and secure funding opportunities to make roads safer for all residents.

Planning Department Director Gina Burritt and Infrastructure Planner Cathy Spahr presented the plan to Council prior to its adoption, highlighting how it identifies high-risk roadways, crash patterns, and key strategies for improving safety.

“Behind all of the data are people—people who just want to go home to their families at the end of the day,” said Director Burritt. “We want to ensure that everyone who drives, walks, or rolls in and through Delco can do that safely. This plan gives municipalities the tools they need to make meaningful safety improvements in their communities.”

Infrastructure Planner Cathy Spahr, who has led much of the County’s work on multimodal transportation, stressed that safety improvements must be integrated into everyday planning and decision-making.

“Safety isn’t just a transportation issue—it’s a public health issue,” Spahr said. “By prioritizing Vision Zero in our policies, we’re ensuring that safety is built into our roads and intersections, not just an afterthought.”

Planning Department Infrastructure Planner Cathy Spahr emphasizing the importance of data, partnerships, and sound policy in achieving Vision Zero's goals.

A Community-Driven Vision

The Vision Zero Action Plan was developed through an extensive community engagement process. A team of 16 Safety Ambassadors, along with the Delaware County Planning Department, conducted outreach across the County, gathering feedback from over 2,310 residents. Engagement efforts included:

Eight focus groups
A public survey with 1,730 responses
Sixteen walk audits
Participation in more than 90 community events

Community input played a key role in shaping the plan, with 20 of the 43 recommendations in the Safety Action Plan stemming directly from public feedback.

“Vision Zero is more than just a plan—it’s a shift in how we think about road safety,” said Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer. “By taking a proactive approach to engineering, enforcement, and education, we are working toward a future where no one loses their life in a preventable crash. Our municipalities play a critical role in making this a reality, and the County is committed to supporting them every step of the way.”

Vision Zero in Action: 43 Steps Toward Safer Roads

The Vision Zero Action Plan includes 43 specific recommendations to reduce traffic injuries and fatalities in Delaware County. Of these, 11 initiatives are already underway or will begin within the next year.

The plan prioritizes measures that enhance road safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike, with a focus on:

Safer street design
Traffic calming measures
Improved pedestrian and bike infrastructure
Data-driven enforcement strategies
Community education on road safety

How to Get Involved

Residents can learn more about the Vision Zero Action Plan and ways to support safer streets in Delaware County by visiting the Vision Zero Action Plan project website.

Delaware County Controller’s Office Recognized for Excellence in Financial Reporting

Controller Joanne Phillips and staff awarded prestigious recognition for governmental accounting

The Delaware County Controller’s Office, under the leadership of County Controller Joanne Phillips, has been awarded the prestigious Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023.

The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, and receiving this award represents a significant accomplishment. At this time, Delaware County is just one of only 8 of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties to achieve this distinction.

The GFOA established the Certificate of Achievement program to encourage local governments to go beyond minimum accounting requirements and prepare comprehensive, transparent financial reports each year. These reports are filed with regulatory agencies overseeing municipal finance and are relied upon by stakeholders—rating agencies, creditors, grantors, investors, developers, and business owners—to assess the County’s financial position and fiscal health.

“Receiving the GFOA’s Certificate of Achievement is a tremendous honor and underscores Delaware County’s commitment to transparency and accountability,” said County Controller Joanne Phillips. “This recognition reflects our dedication to safeguarding taxpayer dollars, maintaining the highest standards in financial reporting, and ensuring that residents have a clear and accurate understanding of the County’s fiscal health.”

Phillips and her staff have earned this honor every year since she took office in 2018, continuing Delaware County’s long-standing record of excellence in financial reporting. “This award is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team,” said Phillips. “The requirements of the report grow more stringent and complex each year because the report must reflect the complexity of the finances and programs required of a modern government. The volume of work being done by the County and programs being delivered to residents involves thousands of financial transactions. We work with every County department with a focused goal of producing a financial report that meets the highest industry standards, ensuring accountability and understanding of the County’s financial condition. We appreciate the cooperation and help we get from every County department.”

The GFOA commended the Delaware County Controller’s Office, expressing its hope that Delaware County’s example will inspire other government officials to strive for excellence in financial reporting. The Controller’s Office remains committed to financial integrity, compliance with evolving governmental accounting standards, and providing a clear and comprehensive picture of the County’s financial position.

A copy of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for 2023, along with other financial reports and audits, is available on the Controller’s Office website at DelcoPA.GOV/Controller.

Controller Joanne Phillips announces her office has been awarded the "Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting" for the year ending December 31, 2023. Pictured, left to right: Bartoe Massaquoi, Accountant; Joshua Affainie, Senior Accountant; Joanne Phillips, Controller; Jeff Powers, First Deputy Controller; and Kelly Diaz, Deputy Policy Analyst.

Delaware County Register of Wills & Clerk of Orphans’ Court Vincent A. Rongione Leads Oath of Office Ceremony

Delaware County Council Vice Chair Richard Womack Participates in Ceremony Honoring Deputies and Probate Clerks

Delaware County Register of Wills & Clerk of Orphans’ Court Vincent A. Rongione, Esq. led a formal Oath of Office ceremony for the office’s Deputies and Probate Clerks, reaffirming the team’s dedication to serving the residents of Delaware County with integrity, professionalism, and efficiency. Delaware County Council Vice Chair Richard Womack was honored to participate in the ceremony, recognizing the critical role these professionals play in guiding residents through essential legal processes.

During the ceremony, Chief Deputy Jason Kutz and Probate Clerks Jonathan Ollison, Ourania Krenitsky, and Nicholas Michetti took their Oaths of Office. Held at the Delaware County Government Center in Media, the event highlighted Mr. Rongione’s commitment to strengthening the office through dedicated leadership and a highly skilled team.

The Register of Wills & Clerk of Orphans’ Court Office plays a vital role in assisting Delaware County residents through marriage, estate probate, adoptions, and guardianships. Whether issuing marriage licenses, guiding families through probate, or managing guardianships, the office ensures these essential legal processes are handled efficiently and with care.

“The work of the Register of Wills & Clerk of Orphans’ Court Office is essential to so many families in Delaware County during some of life’s most significant moments,” said Vice Chair Womack. “I wanted to be here today to recognize and thank this team for their dedication to serving our residents with professionalism, compassion, and integrity. Their commitment to modernizing services and ensuring a seamless experience for those navigating legal processes is truly commendable.”

Probate Clerk Ourania Krenitsky, accompanied by her daughter, is sworn in by Register of Wills Vincent A. Rongione and Council Vice Chair Richard Womack

The Key Role of Deputies and Probate Clerks

At the heart of the office’s operations are its Deputies and Probate Clerks, who are sworn to uphold the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the United States Constitution.

Their meticulous work ensures that estates and other legal matters are handled lawfully, compassionately, and with great attention to detail, reinforcing the office’s commitment to public service.

Their responsibilities include:

Administering oaths of office to executors and administrators
Issuing and preparing petitions for probate
Evaluating wills and ensuring proper legal processing
Providing guidance to families navigating the complexities of estate administration

Essential Services for Delaware County Residents

The office provides a range of critical services, including:

Marriage License Issuance: Valid for marriages in any county in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Marriage Clearances: Indicates that the individuals have not applied or received a marriage license in Delaware County (for residents who want to get married abroad)
Copy Requests: Obtain plain, certified, or exemplified copies of marriage records for legal purposes such as name changes, DMV, Real ID, immigration, and dual citizenship
Estate Probate: Schedule in-person or virtual appointments for estate probate processes
Legal Certificates: Acquire certificates for managing assets solely in the decedent's name
Inheritance Tax Filings: Submit and pay inheritance taxes
Post-Probate Documentation: File necessary documents post-probate, including notices, status reports, and inventory filings
Records Search: Conduct online searches for probated wills, estate documents, and marriage licenses
Family Legal Matters: Apply for adoptions and establish guardianships for minors and incapacitated individuals

Pictured, left to right: County Council Vice Chair Richard Womack, Register of Wills Vincent A. Rongione, Probate Clerks Jonathan Ollison, Ourania Krenitsky, and Nicholas Michetti, and new Chief Deputy Jason Kutz.

Contacting the ROW Office for Services and Information

For those in need of services, visit DelcoPA.Gov/ROW or call (610) 891-4400. In-person services are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Government Center, 201 W. Front St., in Media.

Congratulations to all newly sworn-in Deputies and Clerks. Your dedication and expertise are invaluable to Delaware County.

Make a Difference in Your Community – Volunteer for the Keep Delco Beautiful Clean-Up and Celebration on March 15

Calling all changemakers, park lovers, volunteers, and anyone who is tired of seeing litter in our communities!

The Delaware County Office of Sustainability invites residents to be part of the Keep Delco Beautiful Launch Clean Up and Celebration event on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at Sun Village Park in Chester City.

This event marks the official kickoff of Keep Delco Beautiful, an initiative that unites community groups, volunteers, and organizations in a shared mission to keep Delaware County safe, clean, and beautiful. Participants will take part in a park cleanup and beautification project, followed by a celebration with free food, refreshments, and opportunities to connect with local organizations that are leading the charge in environmental stewardship.

"There is power in partnership, and this event perfectly highlights that power," said Becca Yurkovich, County Sustainability Officer. "Keep Delco Beautiful brings together the many organizations that are working to keep our community safe, clean, and beautiful. Participants in this event can expect a high-energy day of fun and togetherness as we work to make and Keep Delco Beautiful."

“Keep Delco Beautiful is about more than just picking up litter; it's about fostering pride, connection, and responsibility for the spaces we share,” said County Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer. “This event is an opportunity for residents to come together, make a visible impact, and be part of something bigger."

Residents and County volunteers team up to 'Keep Delco Beautiful' in celebration of Earth Day in 2024 in Chester

Keep Delco Beautiful Event Details

Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. (Cleanup: 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.; Refreshments and celebration: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.)

Location: Sun Village Park, Chester, PA (9th and Elsinore Streets) – Additional parking on Curry Street

Residents of all ages and abilities are welcome, and all cleanup supplies, including gloves, vests, litter pickers, and bags, will be provided by the Office of Sustainability.

To learn more about Keep Delco Beautiful, to register, and to sign up to table, click the buttons located below. For questions, please contact Becca Yurkovich, County Sustainability Officer, at yurkovichr@co.delaware.pa.us or by phone at (484) 846-2075.

Join us in making an impact—let’s Keep Delco Beautiful together!

More About Keep Delco Beautiful

Register Now! "Cultivating Synergy" Event to Connect Delaware County Businesses with Higher Education

Collaborative initiative from the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, Delaware County Economic Development Corporation, and the Delaware County Workforce Development Board kicks off February 25

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Delaware County Economic Development Corporation and the Delaware County Workforce Development Board, is launching a bi-annual initiative to strengthen collaboration between local businesses and higher education institutions.

The initiative launches on Tuesday, February 25, at The Inn at Villanova University with Cultivating Synergy: Collaboration Between Higher Education and the Business Community of Delaware County. This event, open to all Delaware County businesses, will explore the vital role of higher education in the local economy.

The program will also highlight how Delaware County’s higher education institutions and local businesses can work together to create a stronger talent pipeline and better job opportunities for students. By expanding internship programs and other collaborative initiatives, the event aims to help students gain real-world experience while supporting local employers in need of skilled workers.

“This collaboration is an excellent example of how higher education and the business community can come together to create a more skilled and sustainable workforce in Delaware County,” said Delaware County Council Dr. Monica Taylor. “We recognize the importance of internships and job training for our students, and this event demonstrates our collective commitment to strengthening our local economy.”

The event will feature a panel discussion with local business leaders who have successfully partnered with higher education institutions, interactive networking opportunities, and presentations designed to encourage stronger business-education partnerships.

Trish McFarland, President of the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of these collaborations in shaping the future of the local economy. “Internships offer invaluable experiences that prepare students for the workforce while helping businesses find their next generation of talent,” McFarland said. “Through this event, we strive to create pathways for students to enter the local workforce while also ensuring the long-term growth and prosperity of Delaware County businesses.”

“Williamson College of the Trades is proud to be part of this important initiative. It’s essential that educational institutions and the business community align to ensure that students have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the workforce,” said Michael Rounds, President of Williamson College of the Trades. Rounds emphasized the importance of collaboration in bridging the gap between education and employment. “By working together, we can provide students with the hands-on experience they need to transition smoothly into careers, benefiting both the students and the local economy.”

Businesses will learn how to engage with higher education institutions, create meaningful internship programs, and address their workforce needs. The event underscores the mutual benefits of aligning educational initiatives with the demands of the job market, ensuring students are better prepared to transition into fulfilling careers while supporting local economic growth.

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Location: The Inn at Villanova University

Registration Fee: $20

For more information, visit the registration link above or contact the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce at (610) 565-3677.

DCHD Recognizes Spring Valley African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) as a 2025 Black History Month Public Health Pioneer

As part of the County’s Black History Month celebrations, the Delaware County Health Department is highlighting Delaware County Black leaders advancing public health, showcasing pioneers promoting healthy habits and community well-being.

This week, the DCHD Black Public Health Pioneer is the Spring Valley African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME), congratulations!

You cannot look forward until you reflect on the past. Concord Township has restored a historical site, the Spring Valley African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME), to share its past with fellow residents. This Delaware County historical site has a deep cultural history, dating back to the 1880s when it was first built. When the township announced the church's restoration, many members and relatives of past members came together to help the township discover numerous interesting facts about Spring Valley's AME church.

In 1794, Reverend Richard Allen founded the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia. Richard Allen was born into slavery in 1760 and attended meetings of the Methodist Society, which was welcoming to free and enslaved Black people. After joining the Methodist movement, he began evangelizing, preaching, and attracting attention. He eventually earned enough money to buy his freedom in 1780. Over time, Allen became the church's first bishop in 1816, when he organized a denomination where free Black people could worship without discrimination. He dedicated 37 years to ministering before dying in 1831, but his legacy continues with the AME Church being America's oldest and largest Black institution.

The land on which the Spring Valley African Methodist Episcopal Church was built was purchased in the 1880s. For almost a century, it served the surrounding community, which consisted primarily of Black farm workers. As time passed, the town developed, and real estate became too expensive. Attendance declined as the community moved away from the church, abandoning it in the 1980s. The building remained vacant and was sold to a developer in 1997.

Picture from 2024 ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the re-opening of Spring Valley African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME)

The developer intended to restore the building as a non-denominational church; however, the church’s social hall caught fire. No one was hurt, but the fire caused severe damage. It was suspected to be arson because the building did not have an electrical system that could have caused the fire. The exact cause remains unknown. After that, the building remained vacant with only minimal restorations completed. The developer passed away in 2009, putting the land back on the market. The township bought the property in 2014 to restore it due to its historical significance as the only Black church in the township.

When the township started working on restorations, a small group of community members revealed more information about the property and its history. It was discovered that there were people buried on the church property. The township started an investigation, using radar to discover objects that resembled caskets. In response, Concord Township installed a memorial tombstone inscribed with the words, “To all the persons known and unknown buried here at Spring Valley AME Church.”

With all the repairs finally completed, the church has become an African American History Museum, collecting artifacts and exhibits for display—many of which were donations from the church’s founding family.

The Spring Valley African Methodist Episcopal Church reflects public health goals. It is a living testament to the intersection of history, community well-being, mental health, and cultural preservation. By ensuring that these churches are preserved, respected, and used as spaces for healing, education, and advocacy, they contribute to broader public health goals of equity, access to care, and community wellness.

Last Call! Deadline for 2025 Heritage Commission Preservation Award Nominations is Feb. 28

Time is running out to nominate individuals for the 2025 Heritage Commission Preservation Awards.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, February 28!

These awards, first held in 1978, celebrate those in Delaware County—including individuals, groups, organizations, businesses, and institutions—who have made significant strides in safeguarding and revitalizing our local landmarks and the abundant historical narratives of Delaware County.

All individuals, community members, peers, and organizations are encouraged to submit nominations for deserving candidates. Whether honoring a passionate historian, a tireless advocate for cultural preservation, or an inspiring leader in heritage initiatives, your nomination helps recognize invaluable contributions.

By helping to recognize Delaware County’s successes, you’ll play a vital role in encouraging the ongoing preservation of our County’s history. Coordinated by the Delaware County Heritage Commission, these awards are presented annually by the County Council during National Preservation Month in May.

These awards honor efforts that safeguard and revitalize our local landmarks, history, and community identity. Categories include:

Site Preservation. Recognizes efforts towards exterior and interior restoration, preservation, or rehabilitation of an historical structure and/or site.
Publications. Recognizes those who have published books, articles, magazines, videos, calendars, social media, and websites, that present the heritage of Delaware County.
Special Programs/Projects. Recognizes education, research, archival activities, or other creative processes used to preserve Delaware County’s heritage.
Individual or Group Achievement. Recognizes an individual or group whose contributions in support of projects or activities. Group Achievement recognizes a group who has formed for the purpose of history or preservation.
Historic Preservation Planning. Recognizes efforts in planning to preserve Delaware County’s heritage, including preserving buildings, complexes, archaeological sites, and community character.
Youth. Recognizes a youth who has made outstanding efforts to preserve Delaware County’s heritage through various projects undertaken, in school or outside.
The Leedom B. Morrison Heritage Award. Recognizes preservation projects in the City of Chester that involve restoration, rehabilitation, or adaptive reuse of an historical structure.
Legacy Award. Recognizes the efforts of long-standing members of the business community that have demonstrated good stewardship and have maintained the architectural integrity and architectural elements of their historic buildings and site.
Veterans Legacy. Recognizes efforts to memorialize veteran’s history, sites, cemeteries, monuments, or objects.
Indigenous Heritage. Recognizes projects that ensure preservation of Indigenous objects, traditional places or lifeways, and intangible heritage or languages.

Act now to ensure nominations are completed by the deadline. Please share this opportunity widely to help spotlight those making a difference in preserving our shared legacy.

For nomination guidelines and submission details, visit DelcoPA.Gov/HeritageAwards. Nominations can be submitted through an online form, by mail, or via email.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Kate Clifford in our Planning Department at DelawareCountyHeritage@co.delaware.pa.us or call (610) 891-5223.

Delaware County Sustainability Commission Vacancy: Seeking Expertise and Experience in Water Resource Management

The Delaware County Sustainability Commission has an immediate opening for a representative with expertise and experience in the field of water resource management and invites qualified individuals to apply.

Applications will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 6, with the selected candidate to serve through the completion of the term in September of 2026.

What is the role of the Sustainability Commission?

The Sustainability Commission provides review, feedback, and recommendations to County Council and county departments on environmental and energy-related matters. Its focus includes energy efficiency, natural resource protection, climate resilience, sustainable transportation, air quality, stormwater management, wildlife preservation, and climate change mitigation.

Commission participants play an active role in shaping the Delaware County Sustainability Action Plan by recommending actions, programs, and projects that promote sustainability through a Triple Bottom Line approach—balancing environmental stewardship, economic responsibility, and social equity. In addition, the Commission helps educate the public and supports municipalities, businesses, and non-profits in advancing sustainability goals across the county.

The Commission is comprised of designated County officials and Delaware County residents appointed by the Delaware County Executive Director. The County welcomes passionate individuals ready to commit their time, expertise, and energy to this important role.

How to Apply

Interested residents should send a resume, a letter of interest, and an indication of their applicant category to DelcoBoards@co.delaware.pa.us. Applications will be accepted through 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 6.

For a full list of board vacancies, detailed descriptions, and application instructions, please visit DelcoPA.Gov/Board-Vacancies.

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