Delaware · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Delaware public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Carriage Drive Commercial Vehicle Parking
A resident reported utility trucks, inoperable vans, and detached trailers cluttering Carriage Drive and blocking driveways near the high school apartments. The committee directed him to submit photos and documentation through the clerk for staff follow-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.
Resident alleges court and water department failures
A resident criticized council for ignoring his emails, alleged unconstitutional water shutoffs without notice, and demanded answers about overspending protections.
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.
Sergeant promotion process overhaul
The sergeant promotion test was rebuilt: a Delaware-specific written exam, oral interview, and leadership assessment replace the old single-assessment format. The change follows union feedback that one test put all the eggs in one basket.
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.
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.