Upper Darby welcomes new council members, holds testy vote for new president

Upper Darby Township on Jan. 5 swore in six new council members elected in a Democratic rout this November, and it chose a new vice president and president — but not without some controversy.

First to be sworn in was Noah Fields, who beat incumbent council member Laura Wentz for an at-large seat, followed by Kyle McIntyre, another new at-large council member.

Brian O’Neill (District 1), Melissa DiNofia-Bozzone (District 3), Myron McNeely (District 5) and Syama Disa (District 7) also officially joined the council. Md Sayduzzaman was sworn in as the township treasurer.

“I look forward to serving with you all, and we’re going to do some wonderful things in Upper Darby,” Mayor Ed Brown said to the new and old faces on council.

Marion Minnick was then chosen as the council’s new president, replacing Hafiz Tunis Jr., who opted not to run for re-election. First, however, two Upper Darby residents during the public-comment portion of the meeting voiced support for incumbent council member Danyelle Blackwell to serve as president.

“She has the experience, she cleaned up our neighborhood — she’s there all the time,” said Stephanie Nottingham. “My neighbors call me; if I can’t do it, I call Danyelle.”

Blackwell herself challenged Minnick’s nomination based on “ethical and parliamentary concerns,” arguing that the outcome of the vote had already been decided. The township solicitor, though, stated that Blackwell’s comment did not have any sway over the final vote, and Minnick prevailed.

The council also chose Fields for the position of vice president — over Blackwell’s objection.

“Private vote-whipping, especially in advance of leadership elections on formal votes, creates the appearance of a predetermined outcome…which is inconsistent with the spirit of open deliberation contemplated by Robert’s Rules [of Order],” Blackwell said.

Finally, Michelle Billups was chosen — without opposition — to continue as the council’s secretary.