Philadelphia City Council reluctant to hike taxes even to help schools

Philadelphia City Council plans to hold a hearing Friday about funding the school district. The proposed tax hikes are running into trouble.

Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell said she doesn’t want to raise taxes in this difficult economy even if it is for public education.

“I do not believe there are votes there for a tax increase I think we have to talk about how dollars are spent now, given the fact we are using title one money for kindergarten and that SEPTA will wait for Transpass money, so I don’t understand where the new tax increase need is and why we can’t work that out,” said Blackwell.

Councilman Bill Green has been fighting against a tax increase for the schools.

“I fully believe in the combined $6.5 billion budget of the city and the school district we can find $50 million in loose change including using some of the surplus some savings from the city other outrageous communications cost of $2.8 million and other examples I’ve given,” said Green.

Other councilmembers are working to form a coalition to hike some taxes and parking meter fees to give the school district money.