Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Philadelphia public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in parks rec
Academy of Natural Sciences closure
Drexel and Academy boards announced in September that the museum would close and the Parkway building could be sold. Council adopted Ahmad's resolution creating a task force to study reopening it, backed by former staff, educators and the Save the Academy coalition.
Center City park land acquisition and Love Park concession
Council will consider acquiring parcels between Vine Street, Fairmount Avenue, 8th and 12th Streets for park use, and a multiyear food-and-beverage deal for the Love Park "Saucer" building.
Creative Philadelphia charter amendment
Council advanced a charter amendment creating a permanent cabinet-level arts and culture office, 'Creative Philadelphia,' which will go to city voters in a special election. Artists and arts administrators testified in support.
FDR Park lease to Fairmount Park Conservancy
Council passed the bill leasing portions of FDR Park to the Fairmount Park Conservancy on consent. Opponent Rich Garella called it a 'blank check' privatizing public park space with no required public benefits or revenue sharing.
Joyce Hill Way street renaming
The 4700 block of Wyalusing Avenue is now 'Philadelphia Masjid Way,' honoring 50+ years of the Masjid's faith, education and community service. Supporters called it the first street in Philadelphia named for a masjid.