Sunday
September 24, 2023 
Every community in America could use a citizen like Walter Wydro.
Upper Makefield and Bucks County have been lucky enough to have him.
The fact isn’t lost on local officials: The Bucks County Commissioners recently passed a resolution declaring May 7, 2019 “Walter Wydro Day” throughout Bucks County.
And, the Upper Makefield Board of Supervisors passed a formal resolution praising and thanking Walt – as he’s known to friends – for his 50 years of dedicated volunteer service to Upper Makefield.
Supervisors surprised Wydro with their resolution at their regular May 7 meeting. The long-serving volunteer’s daughter was in attendance to enjoy the moment with him, officials said.
“His wealth of knowledge on many municipal subjects has been an invaluable resource,” said Township Manager David Nyman.
Wydro has served on Upper Makefield’s planning commission since 1972. Over that time, he has been integral to the township’s efforts to manage and balance responsible development and land preservation efforts, which have helped turn Upper Makefield into the desirable community it is.
Perhaps especially notable, Wydro was a founding member of the Newtown Area Zoning Jointure, which regulates zoning in Upper Makefield, Newtown Township and Wrightstown. Established in 1993, the entity was the first such jointure in Pennsylvania, officials said.
“Walt was a pioneer and visionary in open space and environmental preservation through helping set up the jointure, which has promoted sensible zoning,” said Supervisor Ed Ford. “He has been an incredible mentor and resource on zoning issues for planning board members and township supervisors.”
Recognized as Upper Makefield’s volunteer of the year in 2004, Wydro extended his community do-gooding in 2005 when he joined the Bucks County Planning Commission. Since then, he has dedicated “countless hours toward review and recommendations for the greater good of all 54 Bucks County municipalities,” a resolution honoring him states.
Upper Makefield Supervisor Diana Nolan said that Wydro’s commitment and work should serve as an inspiration to all.
His story is “positive, uplifting and a good example of community service,” Nolan said.
