Malvern Boro Council Stumped Looking For Safe Outdoor Activities

MALVERN, PA — Malvern Borough Council members agreed families in the community could use some stress relief as the pandemic continues, but few ideas seemed workable.

Council Vice President Jamie Grossman suggested the borough prioritize providing event outlets for kids and families to have outdoor activities, even as social distancing and other safety measures are observed.

"They need to get outside while the weather is still good," Grossman said in the borough council's Sept. 1 virtual meeting.

Council members discussed the difficulties of various community event options. Parades were off the table everywhere, the council noted. Council member Brendan Phillips expressed concern about any outdoor events at all, but noted that the matter would be discussed in the next Parks and Recreation committee meeting. Philips said he'd be wary of most public gatherings, saying an outdoor movie event might be among the few options that were "maybe OK."

The board approved participation in upcoming fall events sponsored by the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County. The "Paint the Town Purple" campaign comes in October and Malvern will officially take part this year.

"Many communities don't want to admit they have a problem," said Malvern Chief of Police Louis Marcelli. He said when his department handles domestic calls, they often refer victims to Chester County's Domestic Violence Center.

Malvern Borough is still forming its Comprehensive Plan Task Force and last night authorized the solicitation of task force volunteers.