Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Philadelphia public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues in development
Affordable housing at risk at Neighborhood Restoration
Tenants and organizers packed chambers demanding the city commit $36 million to save 925 affordable units in West and Southwest Philadelphia. Gauthier's resolution authorizing hearings was adopted, and she demanded an acquisition agreement by year's end.
H.O.M.E. housing plan oversight (Resolution 260934)
Both minority leader Kendra Brooks and majority leader Gilmore Richardson called for Finance Committee hearings on the nearly billion-dollar housing bond plan, amid reports that bond money isn't being spent.
Land Bank property dispositions
Council approved dispositions of dozens of vacant properties across the 3rd, 4th, and (held) 5th Districts to move land back into productive use.
Tenant protections and proactive rental inspections
Tenants organized by the Citywide Tenant Union are withholding a mandatory $25 monthly 'resident benefits package' fee charged by New Age Realty, citing mold, elevator outages, and unfulfilled benefits. Council honored their organizing, and speakers urged citywide legislation against junk fees.