💰Double-Digit County Tax Increase | ⛽️ Hoagie Battle | 🚜 Ag Leaders

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In Today’s Edition of Downingtown Local Pulse

☀️ Downingtown PA Weather

💸 Commissioners Raise Taxes by 13.4% Amid Public Outcry

🥪⛽️ New Wawa’s Hoagie Contest Puts First Responders and Local Charities in the Spotlight

🚜 Chester County Honors Leaders in Farming and Agricultural Education

🎅 🥁 Downingtown Christmas Parade Replay

🏡 Upcoming Real Estate Listings

📆 Upcoming Local Events

🔎 Local Business Finder

Chester County Commissioners Raise Taxes by 13.4% Amid Public Outcry and Dissenting Vote

WEST CHESTER, PA — On Wednesday, the Chester County Board of Commissioners approved a 2025 budget exceeding $730 million that raises property taxes by 13.4% - significantly higher than previous annual increases.

"I don't want to watch my grandkids grow up on Facetime or Zoom..."
Minority party, Commissioner Eric Roe gave an impassioned speech as he cast his dissenting vote at the county commissioner's meeting over the vote that resulted in the double-digit tax increase.

The two Democratic commissioners who voted in favor framed the plan as necessary to address a backlog of public safety and infrastructure projects. Key initiatives include enhancements to the county’s emergency communication network, security upgrades at the Chester County Prison, and expanded support for child welfare services. According to county officials, these investments are crucial to maintaining essential services and adapting to inflationary pressures.

The lone Republican commissioner, however, voted against the increase, voicing concerns that the steep hike would disproportionately affect homeowners already struggling with the rising cost of living. Public opposition to the measure was widespread during the meeting, as residents urged the board to identify cost-saving measures and avoid what they viewed as an undue financial burden. County leaders acknowledged the hardships posed by the increase but underscored that neighboring counties impose similar tax levels, and that the improvements were long overdue. In the end, the budget’s passage reflected a contentious choice: investing in long-term needs while shouldering residents with a higher tax bill. Watch the replay on Facebook

New Wawa’s Hoagie Contest Puts First Responders and Local Charities in the Spotlight

WEST WHITELAND TWP — In West Whiteland, a friendly rivalry between the township’s police department and fire company unfolded inside a new Wawa this week. Both teams set aside their regular uniforms to assemble hoagies in a contest that celebrated the convenience store’s arrival and raised funds for good causes. With Wawa pledging donations to each department’s chosen organization, the police selected the Families Behind the Badge Children’s Foundation, which offers financial aid to families of injured or fallen first responders, fosters relationships between police and young people, and promotes mental health support for those in public safety roles. The event, marked by good-spirited competition, underscored the community’s appreciation for those who serve and the importance of strengthening the bonds between residents, local institutions, and the first responders who protect them. From Crimewatchpa

Chester County Honors Leaders in Farming and Agricultural Education

WEST CHESTER, PA — AgConnect recognized two pillars of Chester County’s agricultural community this week, naming Bob and Ryan Rohrer of Rob-Roy Farm as Farmer of the Year, and Lisa McNamara as the recipient of the Duncan Allison Distinguished Service to Agriculture award. The Rohrers were honored for their longstanding commitment to sustainable farming and youth engagement, while McNamara was lauded for expanding career and technical education programs that brought modern agricultural practices into the classroom. The awards highlight the county’s ongoing dedication to preserving farmland, fostering innovation, and inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders.
From Chesco.org

Downingtown Christmas Parade Replay is up, Experience The Excitement!

DOWNINGTOWN, PA — Over the weekend, Downingtown celebrated the season with its annual Christmas parade, offering a lively procession of festively decorated floats, skilled marching bands, and enthusiastic community organizations that lined the streets. Residents and visitors gathered to take in the music, costumes, and cherished traditions that have come to define the town’s holiday celebrations. For those who could not attend, or for anyone wishing to relive the excitement, a recorded replay provides an opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds of the parade

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