Democratic candidate for City Council's 1st District, Vern Anastasio, unveiled his vision for a strong local economy today. "I know the needs of our local economy first hand," he said. Anastasio grew up in his family's business on the 9th Street Market. His plan provides job growth and ensures prosperity for future generations.

The Anastasio Plan for A Stronger Economy

A Trained Workforce: Bring the building trades into every high school so students will either go on to higher education or learn a trade – with no exceptions.

Property Tax Reform: Protect older homeowners and those of modest means by offering “Longevity Abatements” on property taxes. Lower the tax burden on all homeowners and encourage economic development with a heavier land tax for speculators.

Make Philly Competitive: Eliminate the gross receipts portion of the Business Privilege Tax and scale back the rest of the BPT for small businesses – without sacrificing city services.

Encourage Arts & Culture Growth: Anastasio’s Creative Housing Initiative that focuses on cultural economic expansion by offering artists quality live/work units in expanding neighborhoods and uses existing housing subsidies to provide these units at dramatically reduced rates.

Small Business Support: Vern’s Neighborhood Growth Initiative makes it easier for entrepreneurs to start a business and puts energy, time and resources into neighborhood “main streets” like Richmond Street in Port Richmond, Fabric Row in Queen Village, Antique Row near Washington Square and the South 7th Street business corridor in South Philly. Through targeted incentives, we will fill new homes above new shops and provide new stores with a ready customer base to grow quality retail.

Make Business a Priority: Appoint an Economic Ambassador to actively court large companies and industry and make Philadelphia a destination location for business.

Build On Our Strengths: Expand on the growing health care industry in Philadelphia. Work with our research universities and hospitals to attract more pharmaceutical research and upstart biotech companies.

Cut the Red Tape: Divest ourselves of the city’s land bank. Convey city-owned properties to people who will develop with a plan, create good paying jobs and grow our local economy. We will finally end the petty political bickering and red tape that keep smart economic projects from getting off the ground.

For more information on Vern Anastasio, visit www.vernanastasio.com

Learn more about Vern's Vision for Honest Change: