Residents urge Upper Darby council to preserve Mazino tract, warn against developer-written zoning

Dozens of residents told the Upper Darby Township Council on July 1 that the Mazino tract must be preserved and warned that allowing developers to draft zoning language would surrender local control.

At the start of the public forum, several speakers described the Mazino tract as the last substantial piece of passive open space in the township and pressed councilors to reject an anticipated mixed‑use zoning ordinance scheduled for July 15. Evan Hunt said the tract is the community’s “last significant piece of passive open space,” noting planning surveys and past votes that favor protecting woodlands. Terry McGrath urged the council to “choose conservation over construction,” saying the land provides stormwater management, wildlife habitat and public health benefits.

Speakers repeatedly raised concerns about process and transparency. Multiple residents said a developer had a large role in drafting the proposed ordinance and warned that language written by the developer could permit uses—one commenter suggested a data center—that residents oppose. David Dryden and others said they believed the developer had undue influence and asked why council would accept draft zoning language prepared by a private proponent rather than consider variances or a separate public-drafted ordinance. John Deamassie asked the council to obtain a second legal opinion about the township’s contract procedures and the authority of the CAO, saying he believed the acting CAO had been operating without formal reappointment.

Conservation groups and residents proposed alternatives to development. Dolores Lombardi urged the township to pursue acquisition through grants and partnerships with land-trust groups and to create trails. Speakers suggested fundraising, state grants and leveraging organizations such as Natural Lands to buy and preserve the tract rather than rezoning it.

Councilors and officials did not take a final position during the meeting. Counselor McIntyre, who chairs the planning, zoning, and building code committee, said council is "exploring all options" and will provide information and presentations as details become available. The municipal clerk offered to collect written questions from residents and provide answers on outstanding items such as who on council supports rezoning and whether eminent domain would be used.

What’s next: Council has scheduled public hearings and action on related zoning and ordinance items for July 15, 2026. Residents who asked for more information were told the township will follow up through the clerk’s office and future committee meetings.