Hello, West Chester,
It’s Friday, December 7, the fifth day of Hanukkah. Here’s what people are talking about this week.
The tax increase. West Chester Borough Council has increased the Borough’s Earned Income Tax from 1% to 1.25%
The petition. A group of concerned citizens are going door-to-door collecting signatures in hopes of repealing the newly enacted tax increase. Their suggestion? The borough find a way to work smarter. They point to a series of cost saving measures brought by an independent group of residents a few years back that were never implemented.
The rebuttal. The Borough reports the tax increase is needed to pay down the $19.6 million unfunded pension liability and that cost cutting measures are already in effect. Borough staff reports they have cut $887,000 from the budget in 2018.
The hard truth. The increase which will take effect January 1, 2019. The increase affects all Borough residents who earn wages and salaries.
The return to Borough Hall. Have questions or comments about the proposed tax hike? You can find borough personnel back at 401 W. Gay Street. While, you’re there take a tour of the updated facilities.
The Christmas parade. Businesses and residents are celebrating another successful Christmas parade. It is reported that tens of thousands made their way downtown for the event which included 22 bands, antique cars, fire engines, inflatables, several lively dance routines and of course, the big man himself.
Too cold for you? Highlights of the parade will be aired on QVC on Christmas day.
The Naloxone giveaway. Chester County will be participating in a one-day Naloxone giveaway as part of a state-wide campaign to reduce overdoses from opioid use. Free doses of the drug will be available no question asked. Two distributions sites will be set up including one at the Chester County Government Services Center located at 601 Westtown Road in West Chester. Pick up will run from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. or while supplies last.
The marijuana drug bust. Consider this your PSA for the week: Marijuana use is not legal in Pennsylvania. Just in case the will they, won’t they debate over legalizing marijuana for medical purposes had you confused, the West Chester Police department sent a stern reminder this week. According to Daily Local reporting, police arrested a WCU student after a months-long undercover sting operation uncovered his pot business.
Street closures. West Chester borough is reporting the following road closures for Saturday: Church Street will be closed from Sharpless Street to Rosedale Avenue.
University Avenue will be closed from High Street to Church Street. Closures due to construction at West Chester University.
The freakin’ weekend. The Nutcracker returns. This timeless classic is once again being performed by the Brandywine Ballet. You can catch the first performance tonight. Plus, Santa is coming to town. Again and again and again. And don’t forget to add some green to all that red – Eagles face the Cowboys on Sunday.
Still feel like you’re missing something? Check last week’s round up or better yet, follow this blog to make sure you receive the next one.