Councilwoman-elect vows to work for education, ‘quality life’ for all Philadelphians

One of the newly elected members of Philadelphia City Council says she will have a “laser focus” on several priorities, not just the one she’s known for. 

Education activist Helen Gym, who will take office in January, said she will continue to crusade for the issues she cares about as an at-large member of Philadelphia City Council.

“A quality life for every Philadelphia resident,” she said. “Including, and most importantly, for schoolchildren in the city, for workers and for people who are really struggling.  I think that’s a  very important aspect of why I ran and something I hope to bring some energy to on City Council.”

Combating poverty, hunger and a lack of housing are all near the top of the list, she said.

She is one of five new members who will join Council in January.  Most, like Gym, are Democrats, but one is Republican.