Delaware · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Delaware public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
London Road water line replacement closures
An aging water line with repeated breaks is being replaced; westbound lane closures run October 19-23 and a full closure west of Sandusky Street runs October 26-30, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., with detours posted.
Alley drainage at 1806 London Road
A homeowner reported stormwater funneling down an alley from High Street, damaging his railroad-tie wall and car, with the alley narrowed from 14 feet to about 10.5 feet. He asked engineering and public works to investigate.
Utilities capital program — $126.8 million over five years
Residents near Lake Street said basements flood when an aging storm sewer backs up and lights flicker as new apartments come online. Staff said utilities are sized for growth and redevelopment must meet modern stormwater standards, but promised to loop in the utilities department.
Lead and copper rule compliance
New federal rules kick in hard in 2027: service line replacement plans are due, and from 2028 the city must begin replacing lead or galvanized lines over the next ten years. Inventory is posted on the city website.
Stormwater flooding after '100-year' storms
After repeated flooding — three '100-year' storms in six years — a council member demanded to know the city's plan to protect flooded basements downtown. Staff acknowledged larger pipes won't help if rivers can't absorb the runoff and promised a more active planning dialogue.
Tiered water rates performing as designed
The new water rates are working: most typical households are seeing lower bills while heavy lawn irrigators pay more in the higher tiers, and revenue is up.
Water system cybersecurity
Following national news of cyberattacks on public water systems, the city confirmed its water system isn't directly connected to the internet and is adding multi-factor authentication even to alarm systems.
Del-Co Water presentation recap
A resident shared takeaways from a Del-Co Water presentation on how the utility delivers and treats 45 million gallons a day, tying it to her point that carbon used in water filtration is not a toxin.
Water utility mutual aid network
The city joined Ohio WARN, a free statewide network letting utilities borrow parts, equipment, and trained crews during water emergencies.
Utility upgrades on the west side
Three consecutive water and sewer projects are underway on US 42, Sawmill, and Pittsburgh Drive to upgrade utility service for the industrial area — expect construction traffic on the west side.