Haverford Township · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Haverford public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
PFAS firefighting foam regulations affecting local fire company
Pennsylvania's new PFAS ban is forcing Haverford's Llanerch Fire Company to swap out firefighting foam and gear linked to 'forever chemicals.' The company has already dropped over $100,000 on safer equipment—good for health, but a real budget hit.
Manoa Road and Farwood Road Intersection Safety
Residents petitioned the township to address dangerous sight lines and pedestrian safety concerns at the intersection of Manoa and Farwood roads.
Haverford School Institutional Expansion and Zoning Concerns
Homeowners voiced strong opposition to portions of the Haverford School's master plan that propose closing Panmure Road and expanding athletic facilities into residential areas.
Zoning Ordinance Rewrite Adoption
Residents expressed frustration over delayed mailers and short review windows for the major zoning code update, as well as concerns about definitions and mapping accuracy.
Belfield Avenue Parking and Traffic
Walker Consultants presented a detailed study of the township's parking supply, recommending higher meter rates, extended enforcement hours, and better wayfinding.
Infrastructure Grant Applications
The board reviewed multiple state grant applications aimed at upgrading traffic signals, stormwater channels, and bridge repairs across the township.
Naylor's Run Channel Emergency Repairs and CDBG Reallocation
Residents from Woodland Drive questioned the township about the bidding details and historical design of the emergency channel wall repairs following a collapse behind their properties. Township engineers and officials explained the safety necessity of replacing the temporary wall before winter storms arrive.
Police License Plate Reader Data Retention
Residents raised privacy concerns regarding the police department's automated license plate readers, questioning data retention limits and vendor security. Police Chief Viola assured the board and public that data is used strictly for real-time criminal investigations and is securely managed under state and accreditation standards.
Zoning Ordinance Rewrite (Ordinance P15-2026)
The township is moving forward with a comprehensive rewrite of its zoning code, utilizing consultant presentations and direct mailers to engage residents and local businesses.
Chapter 123 Free Speech and Assembly Regulations
Multiple residents pointed out that the township's outdoor gathering and parade code contains unconstitutional provisions requiring permits for any gathering and carrying harsh penalties. Commissioners noted the code dates to 1925 and is currently under review.
Proposed Panmure Road Closure
Residents are concerned about the Haverford School's sketch plan proposing to close Panmure Road, arguing it reduces public access and tax base.
Parks and Recreation Software Replacement
The township is moving to a new recreation management software platform to save money and improve customer service compared to its current provider, ActiveNet.
Curbside Food Waste Collection Launch
The township is launching a voluntary curbside food waste composting pilot program to reduce trash volume and save on tipping fees.
Brookline Park Phase 4 Parking Improvements
The township approved a contract for parking improvements at Brookline Park to accommodate visitors and ensure adequate parking capacity.
83 South Eagle Road Lot Consolidation & Warehouse Development
The applicant for 83 South Eagle Road presented plans to combine lots, build a 5,000 square foot warehouse, and address open space fee-in-lieu calculations.
Subdivision and Land Development Proposal for 1039 Sproul Road
Developers of a proposed 4-lot residential subdivision at 1039 Sproul Road discussed roadway widening, retaining walls, and sidewalk requirements with the board.
Woodmere Way School Parking Restrictions
To address severe congestion and emergency vehicle access issues caused by student parking, the township is considering parking prohibitions on Woodmere Way during school hours.
Fiscal Year 2025 Independent Audit Review
Financial consultants presented the annual pension review, highlighting that Haverford's pension plans have met or exceeded their 7.5% assumed rate of return and passed a rigorous state audit with zero findings. Commissioners discussed future minimum municipal obligations (MMOs) and market volatility.
Gas-Powered Leaf Blower Regulation
Residents urged the board to explore phasing out gas-powered leaf blowers due to environmental and health concerns.
Zoning Map Amendment for 24 S. Eagle Road
GK Property Holdings is requesting to rezone a small portion of a property at 24 S. Eagle Road from office to residential to combine it with an adjoining parcel for a 10-unit apartment building. Neighbors are worried about increased traffic, privacy loss, and inadequate buffers.
Snow Removal and Winter Weather Operations
Residents and commissioners discussed challenges and community communication regarding snow removal and street clearing following recent winter storms.
Traffic Safety and Parking Regulations
The board reviewed traffic ordinances to improve safety, including establishing a special purpose parking zone on Woodland Drive and prohibiting parking near the Darby Road library entrance to improve sightlines for drivers.
Immigration Policy and Local Law Enforcement
The township debated and passed a resolution barring police from engaging in federal civil immigration enforcement or entering into 287(g) agreements. Residents and commissioners expressed sharply divided views on public safety, trust, and federal policies.
Township Board and Commission Appointments
The Board of Commissioners filled numerous volunteer positions on local advisory boards and commissions, setting the roster for community oversight and planning for 2026.
Election Information
It's primary election day in Haverford Township, which means it's time to head to your local polling place and cast your ballot. Your vote today directly decides who gets to represent you in upcoming elections, so don't sit this one out.
Alleged Corruption
Local officials in Haverford Township are caught up in a corruption scandal uncovered by the Inquirer, making everyone wonder if our tax dollars and local government are actually being handled honestly. It's a big wake-up call about how transparent our town leaders really are.