There is an inclusionary zoning bill that, if passed, would put Philadelphia at the forefront of cities in making sure that average city residents benefit from all that high-end development cropping up everywhere. Inclusionary zoning mandates that some portion of new construction over a certain size contains affordable units, or allows "in lieu" contribution to a fund that will build that affordable housing and provide other crucial services. This bill was drafted with the accumulated wisdom of our own Community Legal Services lawyers, and with the knowledge of leading national experts.

This great inclusionary zoning bill, which Philadelphia greatly needs, is NOT the one that City Council will be voting on tomorrow.

The bill before City Council, drafted by Councilman Darrell Clarke and put up for last-minute vote before Mayor Street leaves office, looks like an inclusionary zoning bill. However, the affordable housing that it would mandate is not affordable to the average Philadelphian. Councilman Clarke's bill only requires that developers build units that would be affordable to people making between 80% and 150% of the median income for Philadelphia. That works out to $57,000 to $104,000 per year in income. Most Philadelphia families do not come close to even the low end of that spectrum. (Click here for a comparison of the two bills.)

We have the chance to pass a model bill in the new year, with a new mayor and a revived City Council. It is crucial that we get Councilman Clarke's bill voted down tomorrow, so we do not squander that opportunity.

As the mayor elect has said (and I've quoted twice this week): "We no longer need to chase growth; now we need to guide it." True words. We need to stop settling for less than we deserve. Come to City Hall room 400 tomorrow at 9:45 am. Testify why each Philadephian deserves the chance to buy a house he or she can afford. Tell City Council we will wait for the right bill.

From David Koppisch

Hi Folks:

I am writing to urge you to join the Philadelphia Campaign for Housing Justice's fight for real housing solutions in our city. Last year I helped launch this campaign and the coalition is now on the verge of getting historic affordable housing legislation passed.

Next Thursday, they will rally in front of City Hall and deliver thousands of signatures in support of the Inclusionary Housing ordinance - an ordinance that will dramatically increase affordable housing in Philadelphia. You can add your voice by filling out this on-line petition.

To find out more about the campaign, please visit PCHJ's website.

Stand with others for housing justice on Thursday!

Join with the Philadelphia Campaign for Housing Justice for a
Rally for Inclusionary Housing* in Philadelphia

Thursday, September 6 - 11:30 am

Dilworth Plaza, City Hall, Northwest corner