Jobs and Economic Development Group - May 22

A City That Works - May 22, 2008
Jobs and Economic Development Discussion Group at The Inquirer

The group began by focusing on the idea of "Philadephia grows as a green city," with discussion about parks and healthy neighborhoods. The discussion then turned to jobs and economic development.

-- Carol Lydon

What does this goal mean to you?

• All neighbors are included in planning and development.

• Restored importance of Philadelphia as a major port. 

• Emphasis is placed on Schuylkill River development, including maintenance of bridges.

• Focus of Delaware is trade-oriented, but good development and green spaces.  Make sure there is a balance between trade and recreational development.

• Less people are “hanging out”  on the streets, at the Gallery, etc, i.e. more people are working.

• Five major companies relocate to Philadelphia and/or Center City. (This could be companies that moved out of the city or who move here from somewhere else.)

• Vibrant parks; streets with trees and LEED buildings.

• Philadelphia is able to attract companies – smart development.

• Development within the context of “green.”

• Historic and architectural integrity of city is maintained.  Historic assets are recognized and maintained, not compromised. 

• Students graduate and stay here because of good, well-paying and challenging jobs are available and it’s a good place to live.

• Clean city and safe.

• The tax rates decrease and more $$$ comes into the city.

• Money comes in from All Over the city, not just Center City.  Jobs and development reaches all areas of the city.

• We are able to attract "green" companies. Some objections were raised with the thinking the "green-ness" is a constaint and also "not the city's business."

Performance measures (What success would look like)

• The time and money it takes to complete process for opening a business in the city is cut in half.  It takes 30 days to open a business.

• Traffic on the Delaware River is the same as it was at its peak, plus 10 percent.

• City revenue from tourism is increased 20 percent within two years. (This includes hotel rooms, restaurants, music venues, etc.)

• New business increase.  Three new Fortune 500 companies relocate to Philadelphia by the end of the mayor’s first term.

• City attracts three agribusinesses re: development of urban farms within the city (in four years).

• The amount of college graduates who remain in the city after graduation doubles.

• Citizens see themselves as residents of a worldclass city.

• A “revolving door” of educators serves as leaders in city departments.  They serve for a certain term then rotate off.  The thinking behind this was to combine the academic knowledge that they bring with the experience of those already in government.

• Student interns from local universities in government offices – five in each department every semester/year.  City develops program re: same.

• Philadelphia has as many jobs as it had at its population’s peak.

• The city has an Office of Hospitality/Tourism with well-trained people.

• Wage tax is eliminated.

• Commuter tax is eliminated.

• Business privilege tax is eliminated or at least renamed. (Some wondered how the tax could be called a “privilege.”)

Customer-service standards

• Telephone/Internet assistance is available for application processes.

• Able to complete all applications online.

• Use of citizen surveys.

• City Hall employees are trained in their job and in customer service.

• Make City Hall security less imposing or remove it all together.

• Open Independence Hall grounds.

• End construction barriers on sidewalks.

• End police officer use of profanity.

• Improve cab quality.

• End “coffee klatches” of police officers (standing together talking).

• End police smoking in uniform.

• Dress code for city workers (appropriate, professional vs. “well”).

• School training re:  work basics (proper dress, manners, etc.).

• Retrain police officers in traffic direction (old form:  gloves, exaggerated, clear motions).