Jerrett Johnson

A group of coalition representatives for labor and community organizations went to City Hall to push and protect against employer retaliation, wage theft, discrimination and harassment, and have City Council approve a new bill called POWER (Protect Our Workers, Enforce Rights).

SEPTA's board discusses a proposal to move the SEPTA Key card program to a new system, after errors with the collections system have resulted in a significant net loss.

Members of the public, particularly parents of students, spoke in opposition of the Board's decision to interview new principal of GAMP (Girard Academic Music Program) on December 10th, with concerns about this impacting the on-going school year.

In the second hearing of the day related to SEPTA's proposed fare hikes, the agency heard public testimony from those for and against the hikes. SEPTA has not raised fares since 2017 and had previously delayed fare increases because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Committee on Streets and Services discussed several bills concerning the permitting of new bike lanes and the installation of security bollards to protect cyclists riding in the city.

SEPTA Board discussed the major lack of funding and it's approach for the rest of the year, which includes reinstating parking lot fees and a hiring freeze.

The heavily attended second meeting of the Special Committee in Kensington lasted about six hours and featured testimony from panelists detailing data-driven studies and solutions. Councilmembers also heard first hand experiences and personal stories form residents.

SEPTA Committee heard many from board members about the upcoming development in Ambler and parking stations at SEPTA stations.

This meeting concerned climate change and environmental city policy.

Several bills concerning rezoning school buildings were given favorable recommendations. Bill 240020, which would institute residency requirements for RCO leadership in the 8th and 9th districts, was discussed, amended, and is still an ongoing conversation.

There were no objections to any item on the agenda during this meeting.

This meeting discussed resolutions concerning the Philadelphia Land Bank, authorizing the appointment of a Chief Ethics Officer, and public safety.

SEPTA officials gave new information on the opening of an ADA-accessible train station and followed up on previous discussions.

The meeting was never aired. Documenters reached out to Chief Clerk's office and have not heard back.

The Tax Review Board hears and resolves residents' petitions about their L&I Code Violations.

Residents dispute their water bills with the City, which is largely settled. The meeting was not very organized and led to delays.

CSS moved 4 bills to Council re: commercial parking restrictions, sidewalk cafes, and right of way management.

City is working on a bill aiming to reduce nuisance businesses to lessen drug activity and improve quality of life.