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Upper Darby council reorganizes leadership after weeks of tension
Summary
Councilors voted to reorganize leadership during a packed meeting that included hours of public comment. Michelle Billups was elected council president, Noah Fields retained the vice presidency, and Danielle Blackwell was chosen secretary. Members cited procedural concerns and a need to restore trust.
Michelle Billups was elected president of the Upper Darby Township Council on Aug. 5 after a contentious reorganization vote that councilors and residents said was intended to restore consistent procedures and cooperation.
“Council leadership should facilitate the work of all 11 independently elected members,” Councilor McIntyre said during the discussion, arguing that delays and inconsistent procedures left many ordinances stalled. “This reorganization is about turning the page instead of a protracted political fight.”
The motion to reorganize carried after debate and nominations; the council then conducted roll-call votes for officers. Following the vote, Billups addressed the room and thanked colleagues for the support. Noah Fields was chosen vice president and Danielle Blackwell was elected secretary.
Mayor Ed Brown called the reorganization an opportunity to “refocus, reenergize, and rededicate ourselves to the job at hand.” Councilors said the shift aims to improve collaboration during an upcoming budget process, infrastructure planning and other priorities.
The council’s procedural change was preceded and followed by several rounds of public comment in which residents urged transparency about the reasons for the reorganization and asked that leaders explain decisions before votes were taken. Councilors and staff said they would publish a timeline and follow-up materials explaining next steps for the public record.
Actions: Motion to reorganize — carried. Officers elected by roll-call and voice votes: President (Michelle Billups), Vice President (Noah Fields), Secretary (Danielle Blackwell).
