🌊 Downingtown Dam Study | 💰Attempted Bank Fraud | 🚨 $65k Real Estate Fraud

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☀️ Downingtown PA Weather

🌊 Study Could Reveal Hidden Costs of Downingtown Dam Removal

💰 Attempted Bank Fraud Under Investigation in West Chester

🚨 Suspended Lawyer Accused of Stealing $65K in Real Estate Fraud

🏘️ Planning Commission Reports Drop in Housing Proposals, Rise in Non-Residential Projects

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Barry Cassidy Applies for Study That Could Reveal Hidden Costs of Downingtown Dam Removal

DOWNINGTOWN, PA — The Downingtown Resilience Fund, led by mayoral candidate Barry Cassidy, has applied for nearly $150,000 in federal aid to investigate the consequences of removing the S. Austin Bicking Dam. The study would examine sediment contamination, shifts in hydrology, and changes in stream velocity, using scientific analysis and public input to determine potential damage.

The dam, built in 1751 and later reinforced, played a key role in shaping Downingtown’s water system. Since its removal, groundwater levels have risen, and local hydrology has changed, raising environmental concerns. While the fund does not plan legal action, it may challenge the permit that allowed the dam’s removal and push for its reconstruction.

Attempted Bank Fraud Under Investigation in West Chester

WEST CHESTER, PA — West Chester Borough Police are seeking assistance in identifying a suspect involved in an attempted bank fraud. On October 8, 2024, police responded to a report of fraudulent activity and discovered that the suspect had created a fake ID using the victim’s personal details but substituted their own photo. The individual then tried to access the victim’s bank account at WSFS Bank in Kennett Square but was unsuccessful. The police are seeking assistance in identifying the individual and ask anyone with information to contact Cpl. Hill at [email protected] or 610-696-2700.

Suspended Lawyer Accused of Stealing $65K in Real Estate Fraud

WEST CHESTER, PA — A suspended attorney has been charged in a Chester County real estate fraud case after allegedly stealing more than $65,000 from a couple purchasing a home in Downingtown. Authorities say James Vassallo, who lost his law license in 2018, failed to pay required taxes and fees, never filed the home’s deed, and provided fraudulent title insurance. He was arrested last month and faces multiple charges, with a preliminary hearing set for March 28.

Planning Commission Reports Drop in Housing Proposals, Rise in Non-Residential Projects

WEST CHESTER, PA — Development activity in Chester County shifted in 2024, with a significant drop in proposed residential units and a rise in non-residential construction. The Chester County Planning Commission’s annual review reported 1,484 new residential units proposed, compared to 4,008 in 2023. Single-family homes remained the dominant housing type, with notable projects in West Whiteland Township and West Chester Borough.

Phoenixville Borough recorded the highest number of proposed residential units, followed by East Whiteland and Caln townships. Meanwhile, East Whiteland and East Nottingham townships led in non-residential development, each surpassing one million square feet.

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3310 WALNUT ST Downingtown ($375,000)

390 MARY ST Downingtown ($450,000)

110 ASPEN DR Downingtown ($999,990)

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