West Chester, Pennsylvania Development News
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Borough Council Voting Session
Published: Jul 15, 2026
Westchester Council Highlights Community Efforts, Parks, and Parking Information
Council members shared updates and expressed appreciation for various community aspects. Public Works was thanked for their service during hot weather and for addressing sinkholes caused by aging storm sewers. The Parks and Recreation department and 'Friends of Parks' associations were highlighted for their efforts in maintaining and organizing events in local parks, such as 'Music in the Park.' A new mural celebrating America 250 was also mentioned, along with a shout-out to the Westchester Chronicle for an article on data centers. A parking information town hall was announced for August 19th to train residents on using the new ParkMobile app and discuss parking times and procedures.
Westchester Borough Council Approves Ordinance for Tobacco and Smoke Shops
The Borough Council discussed and voted on an ordinance to amend the zoning code to add definitions and regulations for tobacco stores and smoke shops. The amendments include adding definitions for 'tobacco store' and 'smoke shop,' and permitting these uses as conditional uses in the town center and commercial services districts. The ordinance also establishes new section 112-917 with specific regulations for these establishments. The vote to adopt the ordinance passed unanimously.
Westchester Council Debates Public Safety Tax for EMS Funding; Proposal Tabled
The Borough Council discussed and debated the establishment of a public safety tax, primarily to fund emergency medical services (EMS). Council members expressed divided opinions. Some argued that a dedicated tax provides a stable revenue stream, planning for future expenses, and transparency, preventing reliance on the general fund which could lead to higher overall tax increases. Others opposed it, citing the existing tax burden on residents, the need to exhaust other funding sources, potential inflexibility of a dedicated fund, and the impact on private donations to EMS providers. Concerns were also raised about the fairness of a flat $13 per household tax and the contract with the current EMS provider, Good Fellowship Ambulance Company. The council ultimately decided to return the proposal to the finance committee for further discussion.
Westchester Borough Council Debates and Tables Mayor and Council Compensation Increase
The Borough Council discussed proposed increases to the compensation for Borough Council members and the Mayor. The ACT Committee recommended a $1,000 increase for the next election cycle and another $1,000 increase two cycles later. The council debated whether to increase salaries to the maximum allowable under state law ($6,915 per year for council members based on population) or to implement smaller, staggered increases. Concerns were raised about the impact on the budget, the perception of elected officials voting for their own raises, and the caliber of individuals who would run for office. Ultimately, the council decided to table the discussion and send it back to the ACT Committee for further input, particularly to incorporate the Mayor's requested salary increase and to explore a unified salary for all council members after 2030.
Westchester Announces Community Events, Food Drive, and Mural Dedication
The council announced several upcoming community events and initiatives. These include a 'Friendly Food Fight' with neighboring townships to collect non-perishable food items until August 31st, with the collection site in the borough lobby. They also promoted the 'America 250' event on August 2nd, featuring a drone show, with tickets available for the Chestnut Street and Bicentennial garages. Additionally, council members provided updates on local parks, including music events in Marshall Square Park, and highlighted a new mural dedication on Hannam Avenue featuring local historical figures. The mayor also announced the commissioning of a mural by the PAC committee.
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The West Chester News archive
West Chester Area School District Monthly Board Meeting 7/20/26
Borough Council Voting Session - July 15, 2026
Borough Council Worksession - July 14, 2026
Borough Council Worksession
Planning Commission Voting Session - July 13, 2026
Borough Council Committee Meetings
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