At least two Borough Council members have announced they will not seek re-election. West Chester Borough Council President Patrick McCoy and Ward 7 Representative Lisa Dorsey shared that they will end their terms this year. Two other council members’ terms are also ending. Ward 3 representative Brian McGinnis is seeking re-election, and Ward 5 representative Sheila Vaccaro – who knows? She did not respond to several emails asking her intentions.

[Not sure which Ward you live in? You can find out here.]

Time to learn

“It’s true, I will not be seeking re-election,” Borough Council President Patrick McCoy, who represents Ward 1, shared last week, citing time as the biggest factor. “Done well, a Council position requires time to read materials, research what you don’t already know (there’s a lot of that!) and talk to people who DO know and have done the day-to-day work, and most importantly listen to residents.”

“I suspect there’s a reason many long-term council persons do it in retirement!” he added.

Lisa also recognized the time commitment required. “Serving on Borough Council requires a significant commitment of time and effort,” she said.

However, she’s proud of the progress the Borough has made in the last five years.”I have witnessed significant changes in our council and within the Borough. In 2020, I was the only woman on the council, and I am proud to say we now have three women serving. Each of us brings our unique experiences and perspectives to the table.”

Ongoing priorities

There has also been a new Borough Manager, Parking Director, Public Works Director, and Building and Housing Director (soon two.) “These key roles contribute to our success, and each change has helped move the Borough forward,” Lisa said. During her tenure, she has participated in the development of four new apartment complexes, an auxiliary dwelling unit (ADU) ordinance, and a new short-term rental ordinance. Still, she suspects housing will remain a priority.

“Housing will continue to be a topic of discussion for the Borough, including affordable and attainable options, as it is at the county and national levels,” she said.

Governing temperment

While Patrick won’t be running, he does hope others will consider it.

“My advice to Council candidates or residents that vote for them is to understand that meaningful and lasting change to improve life in the Borough isn’t one or two ‘big’ things, it’s many, many small issues. To deal with those, elect people with the entire Borough constituency in mind with a broad range of experiences solving problems and the patience and character to respectfully engage with people who don’t share their beliefs.”

Wise words. Mr. McCoy and Ms. Dorsey will serve through Tuesday, January 6, 2026.

And speaking of new Borough leadership, Parking Director and Interim Housing Director Ramsey Reiner shared that interviews for a new Building and Housing Director will begin next week.

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Originally published on Mar. 14, 2025

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