Op/Ed: Chester County government prepared for emergencies

New plan, developed in-house, provides for county services when disaster strikes By Terence Farrell, Chester County Commissioner Terence Farrell Being prepared for all emergencies is a daunting task for those elected officials responsible for the safety and well-being of their constituents but planning for such emergencies is necessary. Some months ago the county commissioners took steps to develop...

Police: Armed home-invasion with hostages a hoax

 Authorities called incident an example of dangerous prank called “swatting” The 9-1-1 operator relayed details of the report:  A home invasion in Westtown Township was unfolding with four armed intruders seizing hostages, according to the caller – self-described as a terrified, 13-year-old hiding in a closet. A little after midnight on Wednesday, the Chester County Department of Emergency...

County’s emergency radio system closer to overhaul

Commissioners authorize finalizing of contract for $42.1 million By Kathleen Brady Shea, Managing Editor, The Times County Commissioners Terence Farrell (from left), Ryan Costello, and Kathi Cozzone authorized the completion of a $42.1 million contract to replace the county’s emergency radio system. It is expected to be signed at the commissioners’ Feb. 14 meeting. As expected at Thursday’s...

60-plus eateries vying to satisfy culinary appetites

33rd Annual Chester County Restaurant Festival set for Sunday After feasting on fungi at last weekend’s Mushroom Festival in Kennett Square, area foodies will likely be heading to West Chester on Sunday for the 33rd Annual Chester County Restaurant Festival. One of the biggest annual events in the area, the free festival will be held from noon to 5:30 p.m. More than 60 restaurants and food vendors...