One Philly Budget

One Philly Budget Good morning to my friend, Council President Kenyatta Johnson, to Council’s Leadership team, Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Majority Whip Isaiah Thomas, Deputy Majority Whip Cindy Bass, Minority Leader Kendra Brooks, Minority Whip Nicolas O’Rourke, and every Member of City Council; Members of the Philadelphia Delegation; Faith Leaders, Men and Women of Organized Labor, Community Leaders, the Business and Philanthropic community; Members of my Cabinet and our City Workers; Everyone watching online, listening on WURD, or tuning in on TV... Good morning and oh my, it sure feels good to be back! This Council Chamber is where my journey to public service began. When I was 17-years-old, I stood here and gave a Black History Month speech. I was joined by elementary school winner Liberty Carpenter and middle school winner, and now Grammy and Tony Award winner, Leslie Odom Jr. I was so nervous then (and look, might still have butterflies now...). Then, to work here as an intern for my mentor Councilmember Marian Tasco. Awestruck by sheroes like Augusta “Gussie” Clark, Anna Verna, and Joan Krajewski. Humbled by the responsibility of public service. Then, 10 years in Harrisburg serving in the State House. I eventually was elected to City Council and spent seven years in this Chamber. Every day mattered. Then and now. I am proud and honored to be with you today, having submitted my Fiscal Year 2025 Budget, Five-Year Plan, and Capital Budget and Program to…