Chester County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Chester County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Prison Security and Facility Upgrades
Warden-requested projects include panic buttons for non-uniformed staff, a storage barn replacing an unsafe wooden structure, bulletproof glass at guard shacks, and a canine unit HVAC buildout.
911 and Emergency Communications Upgrades
Multiple projects modernize the 911 system: computer-aided dispatch server replacement, microwave power refresh at 16 tower sites, call-handling equipment refresh, and a P25 radio backbone upgrade — mostly driven by end-of-life hardware and cybersecurity.
Surveillance Video Retention Policies
Drop box security dominated public comment. The board extended camera footage retention at drop boxes and the mail-ballot room from 60 to 90 days, with staff saving footage manually until a new camera system is installed.
County Prison Yard Security Enclosures
The county approved a nearly $4 million contract with Promax Fence Systems to install secure enclosures across four prison yards, completing upgrades for all seven yards at the facility.
Mental Health Mobile Crisis Expansion Grant
The county is applying for a $3 million federal grant, supplemented by state funds, totaling over $4.6 million to expand and sustain the 24/7 mobile crisis resolution team.
Appointment of New Prison Warden
Brian Sheller was officially appointed as the new Warden of the Chester County Prison, taking over leadership of facility operations.
Police Department Disbandment
Oxford Borough council voted to axe the local police department despite residents screaming bloody murder, leaving everyone wondering who's going to answer 911. It's a massive shift in how public safety is going to be handled in the area.
Measles Outbreak and Immunization Awareness
The Chester County Health Department highlighted an ongoing measles outbreak with 36 confirmed cases, emphasizing the vital role of vaccinations in protecting school children and the broader community.
Police Department Future
Oxford Borough is holding public meetings to figure out the future of its police department, which directly affects neighborhood safety and how your tax dollars are spent. Residents have a chance to weigh in on how local law enforcement will operate moving forward.
Visitation Procedures and Family Communication
Family members voiced frustration over lengthy wait times for visits, lack of communication regarding inmate medical visits and bills, and schedule coordination for inmates with mental health needs.
Prison Infrastructure and Electrical Study Contract
The board approved a $75,640 contract with EnerG Test, LLC to study medium voltage distribution and design a backup generator concept for the facility.