In a community like Chadds Ford, it is expected that residents will not agree on every issue. That diversity of thought is healthy. What should unite us, however, is a shared expectation that our local government operates with transparency, fairness, and a genuine commitment to representing all residents—regardless of political affiliation.
Right now, that expectation is not being fully met.
Chadds Ford’s electorate is approximately 45 percent Republican, 35 percent Democrat, and 20 percent Independent. Yet, close to 90 percent of the township’s 58 elected and appointed positions are held by Republicans. Democrats and Independents are largely absent from meaningful roles of influence or counsel. Whether intentional or not, this imbalance creates a perception — and increasingly, a reality — that participation in local government is limited to a narrow subset of politically connected groups.
Public trust depends not just on outcomes, but on process. And that is where improvement is both necessary and achievable.
The current vacancy on the Planning Commission offers a timely opportunity to reset expectations. This body plays a critical role in shaping land use, development, and traffic patterns—decisions that will impact the township for generations. Filling such a position should be done through an open and competitive process: publicly advertising the role, inviting applications from all residents, conducting consistent interviews, and documenting how decisions are made.
These are not burdensome reforms. They are basic standards of good governance.
More broadly, the township should adopt consistent procedures for all board and committee appointments. Doing so would not only improve transparency but also encourage broader civic engagement. Too many residents assume — rightly or wrongly — that these opportunities are not available to them. That perception alone is damaging.
To campaign for public service is a noble and honest effort to provide services, expertise, and one’s willingness to handle complex challenges as an elected supervisor. It’s the earned role to act on behalf of all residents on matters in the present and to create a path for the future CF residents. The other element I strongly believe is to engage the populace of this amazing historical township to participate in this process of good local governance. Attend local meetings, participate in the township discussions, and offer help as you can.
Service on a township board or committee should be seen as an opportunity to contribute, not a permanent entitlement. Communities benefit when new voices, perspectives, and expertise are welcomed into the conversation.
Finally, the recent resignation of Planning Commission member Thomas Bradley should give the township pause. His professional background in engineering, land development, and construction brought real value to the role. When individuals with that level of expertise step away, it is worth asking whether the environment is one that encourages participation—or discourages it. Our township has a wealth of experienced individuals with skills, passion, and most importantly, a sense of curiosity that will be needed to join the Planning Committee.
A community that listens only to those who already agree risks standing still. One that actively seeks out and values a range of perspectives is far more likely to grow, adapt, and thrive. Disinterest or not engaging in the public space serves no one who wants to strengthen our township. I believe that as good citizens, we have a responsibility for the present quality of life and environmental stewardship of our land and habitat, but also a legacy we leave to our children and future Chadds Ford citizenry.
The strength of Chadds Ford lies in its personalities. Our local government should reflect that reality.
Hank Somer
Chadds Ford Township
About Rich Schwartzman
Rich Schwartzman has been reporting on events in the greater Chadds Ford area since September 2001 when he became the founding editor of The Chadds Ford Post. In April 2009 he became managing editor of ChaddsFordLive. He is also an award-winning photographer.
