ROYERSFORD — Borough officials said they may consider issuing guidance to residents about the role of local police if federal immigration enforcement activity occurs in the area, following reports of recent activity in neighboring communities.
During the Tuesday, Feb. 10 Borough Council meeting, Mayor Alex Metricarti said she and Police Chief Scott Fennelly had discussed the possibility of drafting a community statement based on guidance from the International Association of Chiefs of Police. The goal, she said, would be to explain the respective roles of federal and local authorities and help manage public expectations if a situation were to arise.
Metricarti noted that no specific incidents had been reported within Royersford but said federal activity had recently been seen in nearby Phoenixville and Lower Providence. She emphasized that federal and local agencies operate under separate jurisdictions and that any guidance would aim to clarify those boundaries for residents. Council did not take formal action on the idea but indicated that language could be drafted and reviewed by the borough solicitor at a future time.
Police Brief Council on Student Walkout
Chief Fennelly also informed council of a student walkout related to immigration issues scheduled for the following day at Spring-Ford Area High School. Initial plans called for students to leave campus and march along several borough streets, but after discussions with school officials, the event was expected to remain on school grounds between approximately 12:15 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. Fennelly said residents might see news media or demonstrators in the area during that window.
Other Borough Business Council also addressed several routine administrative items:
- Safe Digging Month: Council adopted Resolution 2026-03 proclaiming April as Pennsylvania 811 Safe Digging Month and encouraging residents to use the state’s 811 service before excavating.
- Resignations: Council accepted the resignations of Sarah Schmalbach from the Parks and Recreation Committee and Careyann Farrell from the Planning Commission.
- Civil Service Vacancy: Officials announced a vacancy on the Civil Service Commission following the death of member John Grispon.
- Community Service Award: Nominations are open through the end of February for the borough’s annual Community Service Award. Officials said nominees do not need to live in Royersford but must contribute to the community.
Upcoming Event
Officials also noted that the Schuylkill River Sojourn is scheduled to pass through the area on Wednesday, June 17.