Democrats and Republicans have

Democrats keep their stronghold in West Chester; but Republicans are on move.

Republicans and Democrats in West Chester are headed in opposite directions, but their opposing opinions aren’t based on political differences.

While the elephants are considering moving their county headquarters to a location outside the borough, the donkeys are staying put after recently buying theirs.

The Chester County Democrats have worked from an office at 37 S. High St. for 16 years and the Republicans have been housed at 15 S. Church St. for more than a quarter of a century.

The Democrats bought their long-standing headquarters July 27 from Vivian Lasko, widow to longtime West Chester Businessman Oscar Lasko, who died at age 96 earlier this year.

The Republicans are searching for a spot outside borough borders.

Shannon Royer, senior advisor for the Republican Committee of Chester County, said that times have changed.

There is no longer as much walk-in traffic, with visitors seeking literature, wanting information on the candidates, or registering to vote, according to Royer.

A strong physical presence in the borough is no longer coveted since most of those wanting information go online to the party’s website or Facebook account.

“Politics has evolved,” Royer said.

The Republican headquarters is for sale.

“We love West Chester,” Royer said. “It’s a great town. The biggest challenge is parking.”

Royer said the party seeks a space with a large number of onsite parking spaces.

Part of the three story headquarters goes unused. The basement is stacked full with political signs from long-past campaigns.

“We’ve got too much space,” Royer said. “There are weeks at a time we don’t turn on a light in some rooms.”

If a buyer doesn’t come forward, the Republicans would consider renting out space. A lawyer now leases a single room.

Lani Frank is vice chair of the Chester County Democrats.

“West Chester is our county seat,”

Frank said. “Much of the business activity in the county occurs here.”

Frank said while parking in the borough is restricting, the location features high visibility and offers continuity.

“We’re known for this location,” Frank said. “There is no substitute for meeting in person.”

Lisa Longo, treasurer of the Chester County Democratic Committee said the Dems often convene at the headquarters.

“It offers us a place to do our planning and to offer space for candidates,” Longo said.

Longo also noted that training takes place on High Street, along with a spot to launch canvasing and host guest speakers.

“It gives us a real sense of permanency in our community,” she said.

BILL RETTEW JR. — DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA What’s a campaign without signs? Hundreds of signs are stored in anticipation of the next election at the Republican Committee Headquarters in West Chester.