In the tug of war that has developed between Clifton Heights and the Upper Darby School District, both sides seem to be digging in for a lengthy battle.
The school district is considering a proposal to build a much-needed middle school on athletic fields located on Springfield Road in the borough.
The plan is being vehemently opposed by Clifton Heights residents, who consider the site 'sacred ground,' the borough's last bit of open green space, and the site of generations of family gatherings, youth sporting events, and special events such as the annual Fourth of July celebration and fireworks show.
But there is one item that is not in dispute.
The school district owns the ground. It has been leased to the borough for a nominal fee dating back to the days when Clifton was merged into Upper Darby School District. The school board now is likely going to terminate that lease as it moves forward with its plans for the new middle school. In fact, they were going to vote on it last week before the matter was pulled from the agenda at the last minute.
That is countered by the borough, which has now unearthed old deeds to the site that indicate "the aforesaid premises be used by said Borough of Clifton Heights for recreational and/or municipal purposes and for no other purpose."
The borough is vowing not to back down. Many residents understand the need for a new school, they just don't know why the district has decided to build it on their last sliver of open space.
There actually is a very good reason. The district already owns the land. Most other alternatives would involved costly acquisition of property.
They certainly have legions of supporters, as evidenced by the nearly 500 people who showed up for a rally at the site a few weeks back.
Why do I get the feeling that this is going to wind up in court?
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