Philadelphia City Councilmember Cindy Bass, who represents the 8th Council District had concerns about what she says was a lack of equitable distribution of funds among councilmanic districts to make improvements to their community facilities like parks, playgrounds, libraries, and recreation centers, particularly in the neediest districts.
It’s all about the Philadelphia Rebuild funds. Interestingly enough, one district that abuts hers with potentially less need, for example, is slated to receive about $20 million more than Councilmember Bass’s 8th District. During a Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs Committee hearing last week, Councilwoman Bass asked for deeper clarity surrounding the rationale, formulas, and methodology used to determine these funding allocations.
Once the Councilwoman voiced her concerns, before we knew it, the decision to cut some of the funds for the 8th District, which is in great need, was re-thought. Go Councilwoman Bass! Do that.
Here’s a quick review of what Philadelphia Rebuild is supposed to be all about. There are more than 400 neighborhood parks, recreation centers, and libraries in Philadelphia. They serve as safe spaces for people to learn, play, exercise, and get access to important services. However, about 90 percent of these places need investment.
The whole concept of Philadelphia Rebuild is a historic investment in Philadelphia communities. Philadelphia Rebuild was made possible by the Philadelphia Beverage Tax.
Rebuild is supposed to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in improving community facilities.
Through its projects–Rebuild is supposed to make physical improvements to parks, recreation centers, and libraries.
It is supposed to promote diversity and economic inclusion.
Rebuild is also supposed to support minorities and women who work (or want to work) in the design and construction industries.
The other thing that Philadelphia Rebuild is supposed to do is to engage with community members to leverage their knowledge, power, and expertise.
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