Philadelphia Council addresses housing crisis as waiting lists grow for repair assistance

The Philadelphia City Council's Committee of the Whole convened on April 23, 2025, to address the pressing issue of housing affordability and the ongoing housing crisis in the city. Council members and experts discussed the alarming rise in home prices and rents, which have outpaced income growth, exacerbating the challenges faced by residents seeking affordable housing.

Angela Brooks and Ira Goldstein, consultants from the Reinvestment Fund, presented data highlighting the severity of the crisis. Goldstein noted that the typical home price in Philadelphia has surged from $175,000 before the pandemic to over $240,000, marking a 37% increase. The lowest-priced homes have seen an even steeper rise, making it increasingly difficult for low- and moderate-income residents to enter the housing market. The discussion emphasized that both a housing crisis and an income crisis are at play, with structural issues in the housing market contributing to the problem.

The waiting list for the Basic Systems Repair Program (BSRP) currently stands at approximately 7,054 individuals, indicating a significant demand for emergency home repairs. David Thomas, who oversees the program, explained that while they manage about $1 million in repairs weekly, the need continues to grow, particularly following adverse weather events. The council members expressed concern over the long wait times and the urgent need for increased funding to address these issues.

The meeting also covered the Turn the Key program, which assists first-time homebuyers with down payment support. Despite expectations that demand would decrease post-pandemic, the program has maintained steady interest, underscoring the ongoing need for affordable housing solutions. The Philly First program, which provides settlement assistance, has similarly seen high demand, with several thousand applicants seeking support.

Council members discussed strategies to align housing initiatives with the actual income levels of Philadelphia residents, which often differ from federal metrics. They emphasized the importance of tailoring programs to meet the needs of low-income individuals and families, ensuring that housing policies do not inadvertently contribute to gentrification or displacement.

The meeting concluded with a call for a substantial investment of $1 billion to address the housing crisis, with discussions on how to effectively utilize city land for future housing developments. The council members recognized the urgency of the situation and the need for comprehensive strategies to ensure that all residents have access to affordable housing options.