Statement by Donna Cooper on Mayor’s Budget Proposal

PCCY once again lauds Mayor Kenney for adopting the cause of school children of Philadelphia as his top priority. We wholeheartedly agree with the Mayor that it’s time for a new chapter for our schools and we commend him for getting the tone exactly right in his gutsy budget proposal.

His common sense approach to investing in schools now so we don’t have to pay for the costs of prisons and substance abuse later is refreshing. In light of the fact that the State has failed to meet its constitutional obligation to fund public education, we look forward to the Mayor and City Council significantly addressing the underfunding of Philadelphia’s schools and we will ask our fellow city residents to support this action. We must also not let the State off the hook and continue to press legislators to step up to the plate.

In the weeks ahead, Council will debate the four-part tax package. PCCY recognizes that these are very tough decisions. We urge all Philadelphia residents to keep their eye on the prize and support Council in their efforts to come up with the full $980 million our students need to succeed. The future strength and prosperity of our city depends on their success.  

Donna Cooper, Executive Director, Public Citizens for Children and Youth

DOWNLOAD: Donna Cooper Statement on Mayor Kenney 2018 Budget Proposal