Here's what we're reading this week about the projects, people and policies driving local development:
Inquirer: Kenney proposes spending plan without tax increases. Council likes it but wants changes.
Claudia Vargas and Laura McCrystal, March 7, 2019
Mayor Kenney’s budget address doubled as a campaign policy speech. Council was generally supportive, although debate over the ten year real estate tax abatement was presaged in the speech and reaction to it.
Plan Philly: 7 takeaways from Mayor Jim Kenney's $5 billion spending plan
Jake Blumgart, March 7, 2019
PlanPhilly provides a summary of the Mayor’s proposed budget, including using expiring real estate tax abatements to fund affordable housing.
Plan Philly: Troubled city land sale office facing takeover after scandals
Ryan Briggs, March 8, 2019
In a first move to improve City land disposition, the staff of the Vacant Property Review Committee (VPRC) will report to the Land Bank, but Councilmanic letters of approval will still be required for each land sale.
Pennsylvania Capital-Star: Why Pennsylvania transportation funding could be in deep trouble
Sarah Anne Hughes, March 12, 2019
Transportation funding in Pennsylvania could face drastic cuts in the multiple sources that support highway, bridge, transit and trail maintenance and capital projects.
Inquirer: Petitions are in, and indicted Councilman Bobby Henon won’t have a Democratic challenger Chris Brennan and Julia Terruso, March 12, 2019
There will be 37 candidates running for City Council At-Large on the Democratic primary ballot-barring any successful petition challenges-seven on the Republican side, and two Democratic challengers to Mayor Kenney.
Plan Philly: Philadelphia launches $40 million home repair loan program
Jake Blumgart, March 13, 2019
After three years, Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority rolled out a home repair loan program funded by 40% of the real estate transfer tax increase enacted in 2016.
Natalie Kostelni, February 7, 2019
With funding for a block wide cap to I-95 in place, plans for the Delaware River waterfront are becoming clearer, in part due to the economic recession’s relaxing immediate pressures on waterfront sites.