Ordinance Would Allow Out-Of-Delco Hiring — Delaware County Council, yesterday, March 6, held the first reading of an ordinance that would allow the hiring of non-county residents for all posts except solicitor, executive director and other positions mandated by state law.
Councilwoman Christine A. Reuther said the county was having trouble filling positions and noted that government employment has fallen by 7 percent over the last decade.
Councilwoman Elaine Paul Schaefer pointed out that the county has lost good workers because they had to move a mile away. She said Philadelphia is the only other county that has a residency requirement. She said that 42 percent of the county workers already have an exemption.
Councilman Richard R. Womack said he had mixed feelings about changing the policy and that, if it should change, he would hope county residents would still get a preference in hiring.
Executive Director Barbara O’Malley also said she had mixed feelings but that the change was necessary.
Solicitor Jonathan Lichtenstein said the part of the bill providing for reimbursement for relocating only applies to those moving to the county and is not automatic.
Speaking against the ordinance were Joy Schwartz of Upper Darby and Carris Kocher of Concord.
John Baldini (phonetic) of Upper Darby said the county should open up but there should be a salary cap on non-county residents.
The ordinance is expected to pass at the March 20 meeting.
