Residual Friday round-up
- Politicians
- Chaka Fattah suggests that money that comes in as current tax-abatements expire should go directly into the city's Housing Trust Fund, which helps build and maintain affordable low-income housing. A great idea, as long as that money hasn't already been "pre-spent" like future casino revenues... Other housing support proposals also listed here.
- In a not-unrelated vein, Gov. Rendell suggests an electricity fee to fund alternative energy development.
- Mayoral contenders ask Brady to step down as head of the local Democratic organization. Apparently the City Committee is already sporting Brady posters and giving him money. But it's *Knox* that's the threat...
- The Daily News opinion page agrees with US Sen. Specter that the President is not the only "decider" when it comes to war, but points out that it would have been helpful if the Senator had realized this fact a bit sooner...
- Alex U-A plugs Damon Roberts in the 2nd Council District, and I have to agree that Damon is a dedicated guy with lots of experience who could bring energy and ideas to improving our city.
- AAJane offers notes from a lengthy PCN call-in show on the State House Reform Commission with a couple of its leaders.
- Mayor Street contributed to the Fattah campaign on Christmas day. Who hasn't web-surfed during a lull in family festivities?
- Chaka Fattah suggests that money that comes in as current tax-abatements expire should go directly into the city's Housing Trust Fund, which helps build and maintain affordable low-income housing. A great idea, as long as that money hasn't already been "pre-spent" like future casino revenues... Other housing support proposals also listed here.
- Casinos
- The Gaming Board finally released it's rationale for the Philadelphia casino locations chosen, including such details as that Riverwalk's financing arrangement made their heads spin (and appeared to allow for little real local control), and that Trump's location didn't appeal. Investment groups with Atlantic City connections (including the Pinnacle group and Trump) also lost some brownie points over fears that they'd redirect their business there. Expect more analysis of the 100+-page report, and possibly appeals of the decisions.
- You can read the report yourself (as well as see links to lots of related coverage) at the Inquirer's special reports page.
- The Gaming Board finally released it's rationale for the Philadelphia casino locations chosen, including such details as that Riverwalk's financing arrangement made their heads spin (and appeared to allow for little real local control), and that Trump's location didn't appeal. Investment groups with Atlantic City connections (including the Pinnacle group and Trump) also lost some brownie points over fears that they'd redirect their business there. Expect more analysis of the 100+-page report, and possibly appeals of the decisions.
- Other news
- Apparently unfazed by word that their price might be unjustified (see here), Edison seeks more business with the school district, and more autonomy to boot. More on the story here. I'll take lack of political instincts for $400, Alex.
- Philadelphia City Council finally approves funds for the reorganization of Housing agencies desired by Mayor Street (see previous here).
- Biodiesel has gone live in Philadelphia. Find out here whether your car can use it.
- Street talks additional photo surveillance, saying he wants civic involvement... (also a bit here about possible rubber sidewalks for the city)
- Apparently unfazed by word that their price might be unjustified (see here), Edison seeks more business with the school district, and more autonomy to boot. More on the story here. I'll take lack of political instincts for $400, Alex.
posted by ACM at 6:49 PM
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