Delaware · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Delaware public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Fire Station 305 Construction
Chief Pyle laid out Fire/EMS capital needs, headlined by a ~$2.25 million ladder truck to replace the trouble-prone 2012 model, plus AEDs, a deferred hazmat trailer, and outfitting the new Station 305. The ladder truck has a 32-48 month delivery window, so planning ahead matters.
EMS Billing Services Transition
Delaware County is ending its decades-long EMS reimbursement, leaving a roughly $1.1 million hole in the fire/EMS fund. Staff pitched an EMS billing program — likely insurance-only for residents, meaning no out-of-pocket bills — with a vendor recommendation due November 9.
ADA Policy and Transition Plan adopted
The city's complaint-driven sidewalk repair program has fixed nearly 25,000 square feet of sidewalk in two years, mostly damage from street trees, and will grow to $225,000 across three cycles in 2027 to reduce trip-and-fall injuries.
Fire lieutenant promotions and new Station 305
Seven new firefighters were added to the department, six tied to the new fire station opening next year. Three lieutenant promotions and three replacement hires are still coming later this year.
Police officer hiring pipeline
Delaware police are at 58 sworn officers against an authorized strength of 63, with five openings. City Council added three positions in this year's budget, so the department is close to its pre-2026 strength and continues hiring from the certified list.
Justice Center space and condition
The police headquarters turns 34 in November and is full — no desk space left, an expanded-to-its-limit property room, and a flood-prone basement. Chief Moore warned the city needs to decide soon whether to build new, remodel, or relocate, noting a new station would take four to six years.
Emergency Management Plan and City-County Coordination
Delaware County's EMA director explained how the county supports the city during disasters — tornadoes, flooding, hazmat spills, and big events like the Little Brown Jug. The city handles incidents first; the county steps in when local resources are overwhelmed. Residents are urged to get insurance, sign up for Delco Alerts, and consider a NOAA weather radio.