Philadelphia lawmakers approved an 0 million housing plan in June, but it now requires revision.
City Council President Kenyatta Johnson has introduced new legislation to amend an existing bill that authorized 0 million in debt to support the Housing Opportunities Made Easy (H.O.M.E.) initiative spearheaded by Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. This latest development is part of an ongoing legislative dialogue that has witnessed several procedural conflicts, including significant public disagreements between Johnson and Parker, and delays in the administration’s plans to issue city bonds for housing.
The urgency for this fix arose after the Council amended related legislation earlier in the week, specifically the H.O.M.E. budget resolution, which sets initial spending levels for programs established under the initiative. The adjustments were significant enough to necessitate a re-evaluation of the bond authorization approved in June, as the Council’s changes meant the original legislation could no longer serve as a legal basis for borrowing.
The newly proposed bond bill reflects these changes, which include an increase in the first-year H.O.M.E. funding from 4.6 million to 7.2 million. Additionally, the eligibility requirements for certain programs will be modified to prioritize assistance for the lowest-income households in Philadelphia. This move aims to ensure that while the H.O.M.E. initiative caters to a broad audience, the most vulnerable populations are given special attention in the funding strategy.
As the bill proceeds to committee, Johnson noted that ongoing negotiations might result in further adjustments. With the final meeting of the Council scheduled for next week and no plans for an additional session, the passage of the bill is unlikely until January at the earliest. Parker had initially aimed to issue two 0 million tranches of H.O.M.E. bonds this fall; however, the legislative delays have now pushed this timeline back, potentially until March or later.
In a related development, the City Council has initiated measures to combat the proliferation of convenience stores and pharmacies in Kensington and certain areas of North Philadelphia. Legislation introduced by Councilmember Quetcy Lozada will require new businesses selling sundries, pharmaceuticals, and convenience items to obtain approval from the Philadelphia Zoning Board of Adjustment, a process that can be both lengthy and costly.
These legislative efforts reflect a broader initiative by the Council to address what they perceive as “nuisance” businesses that could attract crime and disrupt community harmony. Additional measures aimed at empowering the Department of Licenses and Inspections to swiftly tackle violations were also approved, indicating the Council’s commitment to maintaining an orderly and safe urban environment while advancing housing opportunities.
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