For weeks it has been the talk of the town out in Aston. Tonight it becomes the talk of 'Live From the Newsroom.'
We're devoting our weekly live-stream Internet broadcast to the controversy surrounding the proposal by the Delaware County Intermediate Unit to expand their Aston campus.
The IU is looking to consolidate much of their county operations at the site of the existing tech school in Aston. The move would double the number of students attending the local campus from 400 to 800. They also would relocate their alternative school from Collingdale and Middletown to the Aston campus.
Neighbors have concerns, and have not been shy about voicing them, along with a belief that this project was flying under the radar until news hit the newspaper.
Residents packed a recent informational meeting with township commissioners meetings after the plan went public. Some also attended a recent meeting of the IU.
For their part, the IU now says it is taking residents' suggestions to heart and mulling over their next move. The commissioners, for their part, are saying there is no final vote coming any time soon on the plan.
Tonight we'll be joined by IU Executive Director Dr. Lawrence O'Shea to offer the IU's side of this controversy. I get the feeling Dr. O'Shea does not think they have received a fair shake in the coverage so far, and I want to give him every opportunity to lay out his side of the argument.
We'll also be joined by several residents who will be affected by the proposal, including their fears of decreased property values, increased traffic, and problems associated with kids in the alternative school program. Carol Cannon, John Mancinelli, Glenn Walrath and Brian Matteo will speak of their concerns.
We have an invitation for a member of the township board of commissioners to join us as well. So far we have not heard back from them.
You also can take part in our show. If you have a question, particularly if you are an Aston resident, email it to me at editor@delcotimes.com and I'll put it to our panel.
Then tune in tonight at 7 at DelcoTimes.com and take part in our live chat on the issue that is red-hot in Aston.
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