Philadelphia Council plans budget advocacy for Built to Last home repair program

The Philadelphia City Council Town Hall Meeting held on April 14, 2025, focused on critical budget discussions, particularly regarding housing, tax reductions, and community support programs. Residents voiced their concerns about the proposed budget, emphasizing the need for increased funding for essential programs that support working families and address housing issues.

One of the main topics was the Philadelphia Energy Authority's "Built to Last" home repair program, which seeks $10 million in funding. Currently, only $1.3 million is proposed, leaving a significant gap that residents believe undermines efforts to keep families in their homes. Lisonbee Wallach, a resident of Roxborough, highlighted the program's benefits, including improved health, reduced energy bills, and its role in decreasing gun violence. She urged council members to advocate for full funding, noting the high demand with hundreds on waiting lists for assistance.

Council members acknowledged the importance of home repairs and the need for a balanced approach that includes both new housing construction and the rehabilitation of existing homes. They expressed commitment to fighting for increased funding for the Philadelphia Energy Authority and other housing repair initiatives.

Additionally, residents raised concerns about property tax assessments, suggesting that the current model unfairly overvalues homes in lower-income areas while undervaluing properties in wealthier neighborhoods. Council members confirmed that a disparity study is underway to address these issues and ensure fair property assessments.

The meeting also touched on community concerns regarding the Logan Triangle area, where residents have faced challenges due to sinking homes built on unstable land. Council members assured the community that a new request for proposals (RFP) would be issued to find a suitable developer for the site, following previous unsuccessful attempts.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's ongoing efforts to address housing and community needs while navigating budget constraints. Council members committed to advocating for necessary funding and addressing residents' concerns in the upcoming budget discussions.