West Chester Weekly News Roundup: Oct. 10, 2025

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It’s Friday, Oct. 10, 2025: And rain is messing with my weekend plans, but first, West Chester University looks to sneak through a major renovation that would include razing half a city block and building a Welcome Center. So far, neighbors are having none of it. Speaking of big changes, the Chili Cook-off has a new date, 44 West finally has a second shop, and the Biscuit Lady is coming to town. I don’t know much about her, but I am guessing her 40,000 fans are onto something. 

Plus, WCU announces another enrollment increase, West Goshen looks to usher in a new holiday tradition, and we meet an artisan baker setting up shop on her front porch. When rents are high, sometimes you have to think outside the storefront. 

Ok, who’s ready? Let’s catch up. 

West Chester University’s Sneak Play…

…And, no, it didn’t happen on the football field where it sounds like it was needed.

On Monday, much to the dismay of neighbors, a new item was dropped on the Smart Growth Committee agenda, “Discuss amending Chapter 112-314 Planned University Campus District,” particularly as it relates to the College Arms student housing redevelopment. It’s in those last three words where controversy lies.

The Warnings.

The cost of living is going up, again. In Sept, Borough Manager Sean Mettrick gave his first budget presentation of the season. At the time, two Borough funds were out of balance: the General Fund and the Wastewater Fund. So, do you want the good news or the bad news first? Good news. Ok.

“As of today, the Wastewater Fund is balanced,” Finance Director Barb Lionti told Borough Council Finance Committee members on Wednesday. “We balanced that with a 3 percent increase in the sewer revenues for both residential and commercial.” 

Ok, a 3 percent fee increase isn’t too bad. 

And for the bad news? 

The General Fund is still out of balance to the tune of $387,170. While this is a definite improvement from the $2.6 million overage presented in September, it still points to a likely tax increase. Currently, the 2026 budget, yes, the one still out of balance, includes a 3 percent increase in Earned Income Tax revenues. 

While the words “tax increase” were not mentioned once during the Finance Committee presentation, one has to wonder where that additional revenue is coming from. 

For their part, the Borough has worked to eliminate just over $2.8 million in spending from the 2026 budget, with cuts coming mainly from the Public Works and Parks and Rec budgets. 

While there is still work to do, Barb teased some positive developments.  “We’ll have better news for you next week,” she told Council members.

The full budget presentation is expected to be given by Mr. Mettrick at next week’s Borough Work Session. That’s Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. at Borough Hall, for those who’d like to attend.

There’s nothing to see here. Last weekend, the West Chester Fire Department responded to a propane leak at the Chester County History Center. Firefighters addressed the leak by draining the tanks through a process called flaring, a controlled burn that closed Chestnut St. on Saturday afternoon and sent 30-foot flames shooting up into the air above the building. While another high-visibility incident for the department, fire calls are actually down year over year. “We like that,” West Chester Fire Chief Mark Scanlon said on Tuesday.

Lock your doors and take in your keys. Over the last several months, West Chester Borough has been experiencing an increase in car thefts, and while the numbers aren’t crazy high, for each of the last three months, two to three cars have gone missing. West Chester Police believe the incidents are connected. “We believe it’s the same actor or actors and we are working on that,” West Chester Police Chief Josh Lee said at Wednesday’s Public Safety Meeting. He also believes all but a few could have been prevented. “All but one or two could have been prevented if the keys weren’t left in the car or the doors were locked,” he added.    

You can no longer park here for free. For all of you who thought you had a parking hack by parking in the upper levels of the Justice Center Garage after 4 p.m., well, the County is on to you. 

“The county owns that lot and they realized they were losing revenue,” Bernie Flynn shared at this week’s Parking Committee Meeting. Parking in the garage costs $1/hour or $8/day with 24-hour enforcement. Signage is up and websites have been updated. 

Expect a little mud in the street. A new stormwater management project is set to get underway on N. Everhart St and Hannum Ave. Letters were sent to residents on E. Biddle Street this week, updating them on the pending Taylor Run Stream Restoration project, which will clear excess sediment from the waterway. No major disruptions are expected outside of some increased activity in the area and perhaps a little mud in the street.

Retail theft at Wawa. West Goshen Police are seeking community assistance in identifying an individual wanted in connection with a Wednesday afternoon theft from the Gay St. Wawa. If you have any information, please contact WGPD at 610-696-7400.  

Lost pup. Hazel went missing around 3 p.m. on Sunday, in the area of Westtown Rd and Barbara Dr. She is reportedly very skittish and barks a lot. If you see her, contact West Goshen Police at 610-696-7400. 

The Sunshine Report.

Your inside look at local government at work. Each week, key decisions are made about how to spend tax dollars, what new developments go forward, and the best way to deliver key services, like trash - and parking. The Report is here to make sure you don’t miss a single one.  

Holiday Lights Coming to West Goshen Community Park

Get ready to shine a little brighter this winter! West Goshen Supervisors approved a first-ever-not-to-exceed- $18,500 township Holiday Light Display at Community Park.

The idea received unanimous support from the Board of Supervisors, with hopes that it will become an annual tradition.

One detail still under discussion: whether a star will top a lighted tree. Supervisor Nate Wolman expressed concern that it might lean too much toward one religion, saying, "If you are going to have a Christmas tree, that's pretty specific to a certain religion. Excluding a menorah and a Kwanzaa candelabra - I just don't think that's right."

Discussion will continue on whether any symbols of religion should appear in the display, or whether it should remain simply a festive light display with no religious connotation.

Star or no star, the park is set to sparkle this holiday season, and for the very first time, West Goshen residents will have their very own local light display to enjoy.

Speaking of, until next time, keep shining! - Margie

Hello.

Last Friday, Alexa Geiser opened Lulu’s Bread and Bakery on her W. Miner St. porch. The porch stand offers organic sourdough, sandwich-style loaves, and chocolate chip cookies, all freshly baked that day. 

Goodbye.

Txt.It’s been two weeks now, but I know quite a few people are still trying to process Iron Hill not being at the corner of Gay and Church. Unfortunately, it’s time to make peace with it. 

The Accolades.

For several years, the Chester County Art Association hosted a Christkindl Market on its Bradford Ave. campus. It was very popular. So popular in fact, it quickly outgrew the space and has since relocated to downtown West Chester, where it has continued to grow to the financial, if not, awareness, benefit of the CCAA. 

“I don’t think anyone knows it’s our event,” said CCAA Board Member Bob Perna of the popular Christmas market. 

Bob, a former builder, had an idea on how to bring people back on-site, and a couple of years ago, he began to clear some paths through the property’s woods. The paths led to a new idea, a sculpture garden ensconced in nature, which, while in development, led to a third idea - Art in the Woods.

“It is the only place in Chester County where you can view framed art on the trees in the woods,” said Bob. “It’s a one-day art exhibit in the woods.” 

And so it is. 70 pieces of original art are being hung on 40 trees along wood-chipped paths that wind through the 3-acre lot’s back woods. 

The event started last fall, as an idea. “We went pretty basic last year. A lot of artists weren’t aware of the concept,” said Bob. But once they saw the final product, they got it, and so did the public. Estimates set the turnout for the lightly marketed event at between 300 and 400 people. 

So, this year, they are turning up the heat on their wooded event. Nearly doubling the number of works exhibited and adding food and beverage trucks, sound bath sessions, and bringing back the classically trained, not always classical music playing, string quartet.  

“I just kept thinking a string quartet would be awesome,” said Bob. And they are. 

In addition to the art and the woods, the food, beverages, and sound immersion, there is also the member show in the Allinson Gallery and a Carol Lesher solo show in the Huston Gallery. Everything, with the exception of the food and drink and the art, which is available to purchase, is free and open to the public. 

“It’s not so much a money-making event. This is more of a brand builder. We just want people to be more aware,” said Bob. 

The details: 

• Date/time: Saturday, Oct. 11 - 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

• Location: 100 N. Bradford Ave. 

• Food truck: Philly Hots; Beverages: Yep Beverages (canned tequila drinks), Suburban Brewery

• Extras: Member Show, Carol Lesher Solo Show, Sound bath presentation, String Quartet

• Cost: The event is free, but attendees are encouraged to bring a soup donation for the West Chester Food Cupboard.

• Rain status: As of now, the event is happening as planned. The rain date is Sunday, so I am guessing this will stay put as long as possible. 

Other things we are celebrating this week:

Friendly competition. Shout out to Josh Lee of West Chester and Michael Carroll of West Goshen and the rest of the area police chiefs who out poured their fire department counterparts. It was all part of the first-ever Crime Victims’ Center “Cheers to CVC” police vs firefighter fundraiser event that had area police and fire chiefs tending bar and competing to earn the most tips. While police beat fire, CVC was the real winner with just over $24,000 raised for counseling, advocacy, and education programs run by the group. Read more about the event here. 

Steady as she goes. Congratulations to the West Chester Borough Housing Department, which is down to its final 350 outstanding rental inspections. While that in and of itself may not sound like great news, at the beginning of the year, the Department, which is responsible for inspecting the Borough’s 4,290 apartment and house rentals, was behind by nearly 500. So progress. 

Marching up that career ladder. Still no word on what happened with Don Edwards, but a shoutout this week to his number two, Don Anderson. After 27 years with the Borough, beginning in 1998 as a driver laborer, Mr. Anderson has worked his way to the top of the career ladder. Last week, he was named the Borough’s interim Public Works Director. 

Speaking of West Chester Public Works, there was a nice profile in the paper this week of 41-year veteran of the department and unofficial West Chester mayor, Anthony Jones.

The community building power of sport. You know when it doesn’t matter if you are a Republican or a Democrat? When you’re playing Pickleball. East Goshen Township and Finding Common Ground are teaming up to bring you Red, White, and Blue Adult Sports. According to their messaging, public parks have always been places where shared experiences bring people of differing viewpoints together. Now they are looking to do it again with a friendly game of bocce, ping pong, or kickball. Advance registration required.  

Being a style icon. Congratulations to Deborah Ann Mack Fashions on being selected as a finalist for the Style Icon Award, presented by Elton John and his foundation. To advance further, Deborah will need your help. Cast a vote and help Deborah win $20,000, a feature in Flaunt Magazine, and tickets to Milan Fashion Week in December! Sounds pretty fancy. Vote here.

Pay it Forward.

Run a race. Could it be lucky number 13 for the annual Unite for HER Run/Walk for Breast Cancer? Organizers hope so. 

“So far, we have over 2,300 registrants and hope to make it our largest event yet!” Director of Marketing and Communications Corianne Armstrong shared last week. 

The race, now in its 13th year, began in Kennett Square’s Anson B. Nixon Park as a way to diversify fundraising for the nonprofit. In 2015, it moved to downtown West Chester and has grown into a local tradition. With its signature bold t-shirts, it provides an opportunity not only to raise money but show support for the more than 270,000 women in the United States affected by breast and ovarian cancer each year. 

This year, the race will be held on Oct. 18 at 9 a.m. on the corner of Church and Market St. Registration is still open if you would like to be part of the record-breaking celebration. Nudge, nudge. It’s $35 to race, and you can sign up here. Besides the 5K run and accompanying 2K walk, there will be a post-race tailgate on E. Gay St. Map and race day schedule here.

Other ways to give back this week: 

Find a forever friend. Last week, more than 100 animals, including dogs, cats, and kittens, were taken from a home in New Castle County, DE and brought to the Brandywine Valley SPCA. Now, the SPCA is looking for help to care for such a large number of animals. “We are asking the community to step up to help us help them by signing up as an emergency foster, adopting one of the animals already in our care, or making a donation toward the care of these nearly 100 survivors,” BVSPCA CEO Adam Lamb told the Daily Local. Read more about the situation and how you can help here.   

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The Freakin’ Weekend.

What are you up to this weekend? With two tournaments, a birthday party, and a Girl Scouts meeting, we have a packed weekend. Assuming a certain tropical storm doesn’t wash everything out. 

If you are around this weekend, there is a lot to squeeze in before the rain. Not only is there the aforementioned Art in the Woods event, East Goshen Township is holding its popular Pumpkin Festival at East Goshen Park on Saturday morning, followed by the Food and Music Festival in the afternoon. Heading into town? La Baguette Magique has crispy-baked egg gratinee with creamed leeks or warm up with Slow Hand’s fried chicken special - $32 with fries, coleslaw, and enough to share. Speaking of chicken dinners, Chick-fil-A is giving away free chicken for a year to one lucky October customer. Or maybe you’re feeling Carter Drive? The Artisan Exchange looks to add to the hype by serving up the best BBQ in town, their words.

I did a quick search, and so fa,r most are holding strong against the weather. However, that could change by tomorrow. I advise you to double-check any activity held outdoors.  

Finally, a special thanks to our newest Community Sponsor, Gregory Dexter! Gregory has a full-service, one-stop, holistic financial advisory practice proudly serving clients across the Commonwealth and the country. Looking to get a better handle on your financial future? Give Gregory a call at 302-757-5260.

View a list of all our amazing Community Sponsors here.

Business leaders: Want exclusive access to this amazing community? Of course, you do. There are only three spots an issue so each one gets a lot of attention, and from what I hear, responses. Placements are filled first come- first served. Send me an email if you are interested.

Mark Your Calendars:

• Oct. 10 – And Now: A Word From Our Friends, WCU Ware Family Recital Hall, 11 a.m. West Chester University’s jazz lecture series featuring esteemed guests from the world of jazz. This is a free event. Tickets are not required. RSVP to [email protected] if you need a parking pass. 

• Oct. 11 –West Chester Growers Market, corner of Church and Chestnut Streets, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

• Oct. 11 – Community Fall Yard Sale, West Goshen, various, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Must be a West Goshen resident to participate, but not to buy. Register by Oct. 3 if you would like to participate.

• Oct. 11 – Fall Bazaar – United Methodist Church of West Chester,  9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Baked goods, Cabot cheddar cheese, homemade crafts, jewelry, handbags, and gently used items. All proceeds go to local and national missions for women and children.

• Oct. 11 – Pumpkin Festival, East Goshen Park, 10 a.m. West Chester’s favorite way to score a free pumpkin. 

• Oct. 11 – Art in the Woods, Chester County Art Association, 100 N. Bradford, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. 50 artists’ works plus s’mores by the fire. 

• Oct. 11 – Chilling West Chester: A Dark History Walking Tour, Chester County History Center, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Your beloved West Chester ghost tour. 

• Oct. 11 – Food Truck and Music Festival, East Goshen Park, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. A day of music, food, and fun.  

• Oct. 11 – West Goshen Fall Movie Series – How to Train Your Dragon, West Goshen Community Park, 7 p.m. This is a free event. In the event of rain, movies will be cancelled. For weather updates, please call 610-696-5266, ext. 4104 or visit www.westgoshen.org after 5 PM on the day of the event

• Oct. 12 –  Narcan Training & Medication Drop-off, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 10:15 a.m. The Office of Drug and Alcohol Prevention will offer NARCAN Training. No signups needed. Please bring your unwanted or expired over-the-counter or prescription medications for proper disposal. NO Syringes, please. Drop box available from 9 to 11 a.m.

• Oct. 12 – POSTPONED: New Date - Oct. 19 - West Chester Chili Cook-Off, Gay St., West Chester, 12 p.m.- 4 p.m.  From traditional beef chili to vegetarian, and everything in between, attendees can sample and vote for their favorites. Winner takes home the coveted “People’s Choice Award.”

• Oct. 13 – $5 Monday Movie: Psycho, Uptown Theater, 7 p.m. includes complimentary popcorn

• Oct. 14 – Senior Expo, West Chester University South Campus, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event is hosted by State Senator Carolyn Comitta. Registration is not required, but encouraged. 

• Oct. 14, 15 – Haunted Tales Dinner, The Social Lounge, 6 p.m. 3-course, price-fixed menu followed by haunted tales of West Chester. Tickets: $48 Reservations required. First-come, first-served. Call to book: 610-738-3948.

• Oct. 15 – Phone-free Schools Action Team Meeting, West Chester YMCA – Airport Road,  7:00 p.m.. Join us in person at the YMCA conference room or via Teams. Group contact is Loretta Cohen

• Oct. 17 – Free Play Family Day, Boot Road Park, 12:45 p.m. Bring a packed lunch. Hosted by MCH Unplugged – Event contact is Erin Arizzi.

• Oct. 15, 16 – Chilling West Chester: A Dark History Walking Tour, Chester County History Center, 5:30 and 6 p.m. Your classic West Chester ghost tour. 

• Oct. 15 – Art Happy Hour: Halloween Edition, Bierhaul Townhouse, 6:30 p.m. Collage bar ticket includes supply and welcome drink. Tickets: $50

• Oct. 16 – The Beans: Story Slam, Sidebar Restaurant, doors open at 7 p.m., storytelling starts at 8 p.m. To participate, sign up on arrival and be prepared to tell a 5-minute story related to the theme of the night. Tickets: $14. October’s theme: Creepy

• Oct. 17 – Oct. 31 – Halloween Door Tour, various, self-guided. Help support the West Chester Library with this fun event. Participant sign-ups accepted until Oct 1.

• Oct. 17, 18 – Haunted History Tours, 21 W. Market St., 7 p.m. They say every West Chester house is haunted

• Oct. 18 – West Chester Growers Market, corner of Church and Chestnut Streets, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

• Oct. 18 – 13th Annual Unite For HER 5K, Gay & High St., 9 a.m. Help paint the town pink and teal at this popular 5K event! Family tailgate to follow. 

• Oct. 18 – Chilling West Chester: A Dark History Walking Tour, Chester County History Center, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Your beloved West Chester ghost tour.  

• Oct. 18 – Free a Tree volunteer day, Starr Farm Park (Meet at parking lot at 1079 Skelp Level Rd., West Chester, PA) 10 a.m. Learn basic natural land stewardship skills and become more familiar with East Bradford parks. Can be used to count towards public service hours for students.

• Oct. 18 – Flick’r Treat: A Spooktacular Film Festival, Uptown Theater, 6 – 8 p.m. and 8:30 – 10:30 p.m. Family-friendly films will run from 6-8 p.m. with scary films to follow from 8:30-10:30 p.m. Tickets by showing: $17/adult; $12/kids

• Oct. 18 – West Goshen Fall Movie Series – Wicked, West Goshen Community Park, 7 p.m. This is a free event. Movie selections will be announced Sept. 1. Check the West Goshen website for updates.

• Oct. 19 –  Days for Girls Menstruation Kit Making Event, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 9 a.m. or 10:45 a.m. Help shatter stigma and limitations associated with menstruation. Join for one of two shifts 9-10:45 am or 10:45 am – 12:30 pm. The kits are hand-sewn washable pads and will be distributed both locally and internationally. Sewers and non-sewers are welcome. Click here to register.

• Oct. 19 – Fall Festival, East Bradford Park, 12 – 4 p.m. Live music, food, beer, and kids’ activities. 

• Oct. 20 – School’s Off Day Camp, First Presbyterian Church, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Open to students kindergarten through 5th grade. Camp theme: Dinosaurs. Registration required. Suggested fee: $30

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That’s it. Stay safe, stay happy, and thanks to everyone who helped make this week’s issue possible. I’ll see you next week!

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