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Residents give mixed feedback on green‑space bond and demand answers on county cyber incident
Summary
Public comment at the July 15 meeting focused on a proposed $120 million green-space bond with speakers both supporting and opposing the measure; multiple residents also pressed the county for transparency after a recent cybersecurity intrusion affecting services.
A large portion of the public-comment period at Delaware County Council's July 15 meeting revolved around a proposed $120 million green-space bond question and concerns about county cybersecurity.
Supporters including representatives of local conservation groups urged the council to let voters decide. Oliver Bass of Natural Lands said placing the question before voters would provide tools to revive green-grant programs and protect threatened open spaces. Kathy Lopez, a parks-conservancy co-founder, tied parks investment to public health and equity, noting the county's population and park-access gaps. "Excellent parks contribute to physical and mental health," she said.
Opponents argued the bond is vague or ill-timed amid broader tax concerns. Charlie Alexander told council that "the taxes have gone up over 50% over the last 3 years," urging fiscal caution. Several speakers asked for more precise spending priorities and safeguards before authorizing debt.
Separately, residents including cybersecurity experts requested a public accounting of the June 26 network intrusion. Gregory Stenstrom, who identified himself as a cybersecurity expert, asked whether election-related systems were included in the forensic investigation and what verification procedures will be used before future elections. Council members and staff said forensic work is ongoing and pledged to follow notification requirements if sensitive data was accessed.
