Residents urge preservation of last forested tract as council considers zoning change

A broad group of residents and members of the Upper Darby Shade Tree Commission pressed the commission to act to preserve the remaining Mosino/Mazino tract, a largely forested parcel residents described as one of the last substantial open‑space pockets in the township.

Speakers at the commission meeting said a developer currently holds an agreement to purchase the land but has not closed and that a zoning amendment that would allow a denser, mixed‑use proposal could appear before township council in early to mid July. Several commenters urged the Shade Tree Commission to send a recommendation or comment letter to the council and the mayor opposing a zoning change that would remove existing limitations on the site.

Bonnie (identified in public comment) and other residents described the parcel as ecologically and recreationally significant, citing wildlife habitat value, canopy coverage and historical inclusion of the parcel in the township comprehensive plan as land the township sought to acquire and preserve. Former and current commissioners and volunteers suggested immediate steps: (1) ask council to delay or decline a zoning change so required county land‑development rules continue to apply, (2) open dialogue with the property owner and developer about conservation or acquisition options, and (3) reach out to land-conservation organizations and grant sources to explore purchase or easements.

Josh, a township planning staff member, clarified process and regulatory constraints: zoning changes would not remove subdivision/land‑development review requirements — developers still must meet the subdivision/land‑development ordinance and could face waivers or conditions at that stage — but commissioners and residents said a zoning change would materially alter the economics and therefore the range of feasible outcomes for preservation.

The Shade Tree Commission recorded a motion (moved and seconded) to draft and submit a letter to council and the mayor urging preservation and requesting that the commission's views be considered before any zoning change is approved.

What’s next: Commission members said they will draft the wording and try to deliver the recommendation before the next council meeting. Residents said they will coordinate outreach to conservation groups and investigate the parcel’s market value and existing county protections.