Cindy Bass eyes Mt. Airy for District office location

Eighth District Councilwoman Cindy Bass has an offer from a nonprofit organization to use a Mt. Airy building rent-free.

“We were offered space. Right now, we are still trying to figure out due to ethics codes (whether) this would be allowed,” said Joe Corrigan, Bass’ director of communications. Corrigan would not disclose the name of the nonprofit.

Corrigan said Bass has asked the City Ethics Board for an advisory opinion on whether this is an acceptable arrangement.

Philadelphia’s City Charter prohibits city officials from accepting anything of value. But past advisory opinions show there is wiggle room. In November of 2010, the Ethics Board told a Housing department official that he could use (donated) gift certificates as a reward to workers.

Bass has strong ties in Mt. Airy. She is a resident, she served as president of East Mt. Airy Neighbors and was the first employee of Mt. Airy USA. The Eighth Council District covers Chestnut Hill, Mt. Airy, Germantown as well as parts of North Philadelphia.