Councilman Jones Jr. reacts to city tax tussle

For two days, City Council has debated a plan opposed by Mayor Nutter to dramatically overhaul Philadelphia business taxes.

Councilman Curtis Jones Jr. represents the city’s fourth district, which covers all or parts of Manayunk, Roxborough and East Falls.  In a statement issued on Wednesday, Jones said council is guessing on which way the market will fluctuate with a new tax paradigm.

“It is evident that our tax structure has stressed the small resident company compared to ignoring the sales within city limits of the “big box” larger enterprise,” said Jones Jr. “What has become clear from these hearings is tax reform is here to stay.” 

Jones went on to say that tax reform fosters neighborhood transformation and City Council will play a key role in making sure all aspects of Philadelphia industries are secure. 

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WHYY’s All Things Considered anchor Dave Heller asked our senior reporter Dave Davies to explain what’s at stake in the controversy.  Listen to their conversation by playing the audio above.

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