🚨 Behavioral Health Worker Wanted For Assault

In Today’s Edition of Downingtown Local Pulse
*Limited Summer Posting Schedule*

☀️ Downingtown PA Weather

🚨 Behavioral Health Worker Wanted for Alleged Sexual Assault of Juvenile

🚰 CASD Address Water Safety with New PFAS Filters

🐐 Youth Showcase Talents at Chester County 4-H Fair

🚲🪡 Pedals for Progress Collects Bicycles and Sewing Machines

🏛️ New Director of Chester County Facilities Department Appointed

🗝️ Old Caln Historical Society Hosts Open House with Guided Tours

🛶 🚧 Uwchlan Begins Final Phase of Peck Road Improvements

🏡 Downingtown Real Estate

📆 Upcoming Local Events

🔎 Local Business Finder

Behavioral Health Worker Wanted for Alleged Sexual Assault of Juvenile

WEST WHITELAND TWP — Shakur Austin, a 26-year-old staff member at a nonprofit behavioral healthcare organization, is wanted by Chester County authorities on charges of sexually assaulting a minor. The incident, which allegedly took place on June 30, 2024, involved a 14-year-old client and was captured on surveillance footage. According to the criminal complaint, Austin initiated a game of "truth or dare" that escalated into sexual activity. Austin reportedly used a clipboard to obstruct the view of a surveillance camera during the act. He had developed a rapport with the victim, often buying her food and allowing her to contact family and friends. Austin faces charges including involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a child, statutory sexual assault, and corruption of minors. He is currently at large.

Coatesville Schools Address Water Safety with New PFAS Filters

COATESVILLE, PA — During a recent board meeting, the Coatesville Area School District approved contracts with Suburban Water to install filtration systems at East Fallowfield and Kings Highway elementary schools. These schools, relying on well water, showed concerning levels of PFAS—chemicals linked to various health issues. The Environmental Protection Agency and Pennsylvania regulations have set strict limits for PFAS, which were exceeded in recent tests at both schools.

The new filtration systems, costing $3,800 for East Fallowfield and $4,600 for Kings Highway, aim to ensure safe kitchen water, complementing the existing filters on water fountains. This initiative is part of a broader plan, which includes the eventual demolition of East Fallowfield and renovations at Kings Highway.

Youth Showcase Talents at Chester County 4-H Fair, August 5-10

HONEY BROOK, PA — The Chester County 4-H Fair will take place from August 5 to 10 at the Romano 4-H Center in Honey Brook. The event showcases the talents of local youth through animal shows and various project exhibits. Highlights include a livestock sale on August 7 and the 4-H Horse Show on August 10. The fair is open daily to the public, celebrating the achievements of over 2,500 4-H members.

Pedals for Progress Collects Bicycles and Sewing Machines For Those in Need

WEST GOSHEN TWP — Pedals for Progress and Sewing Peace will hold a collection event for used bicycles and sewing machines on October 20, 2024, at the West Goshen Municipal Complex. The items will be refurbished and shipped to developing countries, where they provide essential transportation and economic opportunities. A $20 donation per item is suggested to cover shipping costs. All contributions are tax-deductible.

George Martynick, Jr. Appointed Director of Chester County Facilities Department

CHESTER COUNTY, PA — Chester County has appointed George Martynick, Jr. as the new Director of the Facilities Department. Martynick, who has been Acting Director since October 2023, will manage the county’s buildings, parks, and trails. His responsibilities include overseeing staff and contractors, managing maintenance and repairs, and leading capital improvement projects.

Martynick’s appointment comes with a focus on meeting the county's Climate Action Plan goals, which aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in county-owned buildings by 80 percent by 2050. His role will involve enhancing energy efficiency and incorporating sustainable practices. With over 30 years of experience at the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, Martynick is well-versed in various systems and building codes. He is a member of several professional organizations and has been actively involved in the Boy Scouts of America for 45 years, currently serving as a Scoutmaster.

Old Caln Historical Society Hosts Open House with Guided Tours

CALN TWP — On Sunday, August 4, the Old Caln Historical Society will host an open house at the Old Caln Meetinghouse, offering guided tours and a look at its growing museum collection. From 1 to 3 PM, volunteers will lead visitors through the historic site, providing an in-depth exploration of its past and significance. The event also features a history scavenger hunt, encouraging participants to visit other local historic open houses and discover more about the area's rich cultural heritage. This event provides a unique opportunity for community members and history enthusiasts to engage with the local history in an interactive and informative way.

Uwchlan Township Begins Final Phase of Peck Road Improvements

UWCHLAN TWP — Uwchlan Township has confirmed the resumption of the Peck Road culvert project, scheduled to begin on August 5. The project had been delayed due to the necessary relocation of a water main, which Aqua has now completed. The township's contractor will proceed with installing the new culvert, along with storm water piping, grading, concrete work, and paving.

The work is expected to last three to four weeks, depending on weather conditions. The project aims to improve storm water management and road safety, leading to the eventual reopening of Peck Road.

Catch up on previous issues…

Newly Listed Homes:

106 Lloyd Avenue, Downingtown, PA ($429,900)

1223 Delaware Lane, Downingtown, PA ($475,000)

8 Shamrock Circle, Downingtown, PA ($589,227)

296 Prospect Avenue, Downingtown, PA ($639,000)

Search for homes CLICK HERE

Catch up on previous issues…