City Council passes budget, Parkers housing plan

Mayor Cherelle Parker's second city budget, approved Thursday, totals approximately $13. 4 billion and includes an $800 million bond for her Housing Opportunities Made Easy initiative, aimed at creating or preserving 30,000 affordable housing units over four years. The budget reflects Parker's ongoing priorities, such as extended schooling and programs addressing the opioid crisis. Additionally, it features business tax cuts that have drawn ire from progressive activists, who argue they are inadequate. Parker defended the budget, stating it represents the best effort under current circumstances, while also committing nearly $800 million to SEPTA to address impending service cuts.

This budget is notable as the first in over 15 years to reduce both the Business Income and Receipts Tax and the wage tax, costing the city $210 million in the coming year. Lawmakers added $17 million to support businesses affected by tax changes and secured additional funding for community initiatives. The council's approval was largely unanimous, with dissent from one council member and vocal opposition from the public. Critics warn that the long-term impact of the tax cuts could lead to significant funding reductions for city services over the next decade.