Delaware County Council adopts parameters for up to $126 million in bonds to fund capital projects

Delaware County Council voted unanimously on Sept. 16 to adopt Ordinance 2026‑02, a parameters ordinance authorizing the county to issue general‑obligation debt under the Local Government Unit Debt Act with a combined ceiling of $126,000,000.

County CFO Kelli Diaz explained the scope of the ordinance: "This 2026 parameters ordinance outlines a maximum amount in principal and interest greater than what is anticipated for the final borrowing amount to allow us flexibility to, complete due diligence, finalize our documents, and enter the market," and said the ordinance contemplates $120,000,000 of new money and up to $6,000,000 to refund prior county notes. Solicitor Aubrey confirmed notice of the second reading had been published and that bond counsel found the issuance complies with the statute cited.

The council opened a public hearing on the ordinance and heard no comments. A roll‑call vote followed; Council recorded unanimous "aye" votes and the ordinance passed. Vice Chair Ruther framed the borrowing as a way to pay for long‑term capital needs — including radio systems, prison renovations and courthouse repairs — that the county argued should be financed rather than deferred. The ordinance leaves final interest rates, maturities and redemption terms to be set when the bonds are priced and sold.