Philadelphians convey their reactions to investments in creating a Safer, Cleaner, and Greener city with Access to Economic Opportunity for All.
PHILADELPHIA — Today, City Council approved Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s ‘One Philly 2.0’ budget. The budget is a $6.8 billion investment across five sectors: Public Safety, Clean and Green, Economic Opportunity, Housing, and Education. It includes a $2 billion investment in the Housing Opportunities Made Easy (H.O.M.E) Plan.
Read more below about the reactions from community leaders, business representatives, and public safety officials regarding Mayor Parker’s budget for Fiscal Year 2026 in Philadelphia.
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION
Senator Vincent Hughes, Senate Democratic Appropriations Chair: “Our city, our Commonwealth, our country works best when we embrace the fact that we are all working toward the same goal. We all want our communities to be safe, clean, and thriving. Mayor Parker’s budget delivers on that goal. When our systems of government work together, as partners, we can achieve great things. I’ve seen it firsthand with the building of a new elementary school, more resources for our police officers, and more groundbreakings for affordable housing. I’ve believed in the mayor’s vision of One Philly since day one and this budget makes that vision a reality.”
Rep. Jordan A. Harris, Majority Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee: “Today marks an important step forward for Philadelphia. With the passage of Mayor Parker’s budget, our city is doubling down on a bold, people-centered agenda that makes public safety, clean neighborhoods, and economic opportunity top priorities. This budget reflects the kind of partnership it takes to build the safest, cleanest, and greenest big city in America, and to ensure that every Philadelphian has a safe and stable place to call home. As Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee and a proud son of Philadelphia, I remain committed to working alongside Mayor Parker, Council President Johnson, and members of City Council to ensure Harrisburg stands ready to support this shared vision for progress.”
WELLNESS
Tara L. Gontek, Community Advisory Council, Riverview Wellness Village: “I am extremely excited about Mayor Parker’s bold, forward-thinking budget. The continued expansions to the wellness ecosystem, particularly at Riverview Wellness Village, will greatly improve quality of life for all Philadelphians. Investing in quality, holistic, hand-up services to help folks from all walks of life who are struggling with substance use disorder shows Mayor Parker’s commitment to truly making us ‘One Philly, A United City’.”
Dr. Ala Stanford, Founder, Black Doctors Consortium & Center for Health Equity: “It is a privilege to work alongside Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and her administration as they lead Philadelphia toward a stronger, more sustainable future. Her commitment to improving health, economic mobility, housing, safety, and the environment will leave a lasting impact on our city for generations to come. I am grateful to be part of this transformation and the positive change taking place in Philadelphia.”
Chantay Love, President of EMIR Healing Center: “Healing a city requires a collective effort. EMIR Healing Center values Mayor Parker’s investment in partnerships that address trauma, uplift survivors, and create lasting pathways for resilience and recovery.”
Peter Smith, Father of someone suffering from substance use disorder: “I would like to congratulate and commend Mayor Cherelle Parker on her FY26 budget and vision. I would especially like to highlight her historic efforts and financial commitment regarding opioid addiction. Her extraordinary foresight to envision a facility that is more than just a rehab center in The Riverview Wellness Village will become a model for other cities to follow. This effort, unlike any other initiative, sets the example for complete recovery from start to finish including outstanding rehabilitation, treatment, and the transition to those affected back into their families and society. As a father of a child who has battled addiction for a long time, I now see a pathway of hope and recovery for him and look to a future where I will have my child back home, and it’s all thanks to a forward thinker and tremendous leader in Mayor Cherelle Parker.”
Christopher Zagacki, CEO of New Foundations Charter School: “When Mayor Parker sees a challenge, she looks for a solution. The Riverview Wellness Center fills in a gap that existed for far too long and provides critical support for those on the road to recovery. I appreciate the communication and collaboration between the Mayor’s Office and the surrounding communities to ensure that all voices and concerns are heard and addressed. Philadelphia is at its best when its residents are at their best and Mayor Parker’s budget helps solve challenges and pushes Philadelphia forward!”
Joseph S. Martz, CEO of Merakey: “The Parker Administration is making good on its promise to engage and listen to the communities they serve. Initiatives such as the Wellness Village at Riverview are part of an ambitious vision to help support historically underserved neighborhoods including those that have been hardest hit by the opioid crisis. Merakey is honored to work with the mayor and her team to make these much-needed investments in Philadelphia.”
PUBLIC SAFETY
Anton Moore, Founder of ‘Unity in the Community’: “The Parker administration has done an excellent job making sure grassroots organizations across the city have resources to combat the gun violence epidemic in the City of Philadelphia. As you can see with the declining numbers, we have to continue to work with the Parker administration to improve the lives of our young people here in the city.”
Casey O’Donnell, CEO of Impact Services: “Mayor Parker’s budget is grounded in safety and growth for Philadelphia families. The foundation of trauma-informed principles and practices is the creation of interpersonal, environmental, and emotional safety. Every family, block, and neighborhood seem to agree with Mayor Parker that safe spaces to play, pray, learn, work and grow are fundamental to quality of life in Philly.”
Lillian Penn, Executive Director of Voices of Village: “Mayor Parker’s budget represents a historic investment in our city’s future, prioritizing the well-being of our communities and the opportunities available to our most vulnerable youth. By supporting key initiatives that uplift justice-involved youth and expand mental health resources, this budget lays the foundation for a stronger, more equitable city. I am excited to stand alongside Mayor Parker in championing these transformative investments—because when we invest in our young people, we invest in a safer, healthier, and more hopeful future for all.”
HOUSING
Ira Goldstein, Senior Advisor at the Reinvestment Fund: “As President Obama once said, A budget is more than just a series of numbers on a page. It is an embodiment of our values. Mayor Parker’s budget shows how much she values the multi-generational and multi-dimensional importance of a stable and quality home to Philadelphians, regardless of if they own or rent their homes, or in her words, whether they ‘have-not’ or ‘have-little’.”
Robin Wiessmann, Executive Director and CEO of the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency: “Pennsylvania urgently needs more affordable housing, and Mayor Parker’s housing plan should make a significant impact in Philadelphia, where some of the greatest need exists. She has support from PHFA and other partners, too. Working together, we can make a positive difference.”
2026
Dan Hilferty, Chairman of Philadelphia Soccer 2026: “We are deeply appreciative of the Parker Administration’s ongoing support of Philadelphia Soccer 2026 ahead of FIFA World Cup 26™. Through strategic investment in our shared priorities, we are working collaboratively to ensure both residents and international visitors have an exceptional experience at next summer’s tournament. Together, we have the opportunity to create a lasting impact on our local community and we are grateful to Mayor Parker for her continued partnership.”
John Middleton, Managing Partner and CEO, Philadelphia Phillies: “The Philadelphia Phillies are immensely thankful to Mayor Parker and her entire administration for their unwavering support to ensure fans, residents, and visitors have a truly unparalleled experience in 2026. Hosting the MLB All-Star Game, in the birthplace of America, during the 250th anniversary of our country is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase our city on a national and international stage. We collectively share a commitment to delivering a celebration that honors Philadelphia’s rich history, dynamic culture, and passion for baseball.”
Christopher Levenick, Administrator of the Philadelphia Funder Collaborative for the Semiquincentennial: “The Philadelphia Funder Collaborative for the Semiquincentennial is thrilled with Mayor Parker’s leadership. In 2026, this city will lead the nation in commemorating our 250 years of independence. The Parker administration, along with Council members, have been working side-by-side with the private sector to invest in high-visibility and high-impact programming. Together, we will ensure the city is at its best when the eyes of the world are on Philadelphia, and that every Philadelphian has the opportunity to participate in the Semiquincentennial celebrations.”
Gregg Caren, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau: “Having successfully booked the FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Game, and PCMA Convening Leaders, one of the meeting industry’s most important events, it is incumbent on us to not only ensure their success in 2026 but also leverage every opportunity to attract more conventions, sporting events, and international visitors. The City’s investment will help us continue to promote our extraordinary destination and key assets, including the Pennsylvania Convention Center, our sports venues, hotels, restaurants, and attractions, solidifying Philadelphia’s reputation as a premier global destination.”
Rev. Luis Cortés, Jr., Founder, President and CEO of Esperanza: “Esperanza has been a beacon of hope and opportunity for nearly 40 years, enriching the lives of 30,000 individuals annually through programs in education, workforce development, the performing arts, community journalism, and more. We wholeheartedly support the mayor’s budget, which invests in organizations like Esperanza that strengthen our communities. With its adaptable and visionary projects, Esperanza stands ready to enhance Philadelphia’s celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary, creating meaningful connections for residents and visitors alike. Together, we can ensure that this historic moment reflects the resilience and unity of our city.”
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY
Sheila Ireland, CEO and President of OIC Philadelphia: “The strategic investments from the Parker Administration and City of Philadelphia have been transformative for OIC Philadelphia’s ability to serve North Philadelphians. Through funding for our behavioral health job training pilot program, which is increasing the representation of mental health professionals in underserved neighborhoods, to critical support for wrap-around services that address the whole person, Mayor Parker’s One Philly 2.0 Budget demonstrates a profound understanding of workforce development needs. These investments have allowed us to strengthen and enhance our 61-year mission of connecting individuals to family-sustaining jobs with real career growth opportunities. The Parker Administration’s commitment to equitable economic mobility isn’t just rhetoric—it’s backed by meaningful financial support that empowers organizations like ours to create lasting change in the communities that need it most.”
Atif Bostic, President and CEO of Uplift Solutions: “Uplift Solutions is honored to collaborate with the Mayor’s Office in advancing key initiatives made possible by investments in workforce development, public safety, comprehensive reentry programs, and interventive mental health services. Through partnerships with city departments to include The Office of Reentry Partnerships and the office of Community Empowerment and Opportunity, we can create opportunities that empower individuals, strengthen communities, reduce crime and recidivism, and drive meaningful change. We are excited about the progress we’ve made together and look forward to continuing this vital work to build a more inclusive and thriving Philadelphia.”
Jennifer Rodriguez. MCP, President and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: “The Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce welcomes Mayor Parker’s commitment to revitalizing our city’s economy through strategic investments and the resumption of business tax reductions. These efforts recognize the vital role small businesses play in driving job creation and economic growth. We look forward to working with the Administration and City Council to build on this progress, ensuring Philadelphia remains a competitive and thriving hub for entrepreneurs. As the city’s economic landscape evolves under the new federal administration, we are optimistic that even bolder steps will be taken to foster long-term prosperity and opportunity for all Philadelphians.”
Zach Wilcha, CEO, Independence Business Alliance, Greater Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce: Mayor Parker’s “One Philly 2.0” budget represents continued and evolving efforts to make Philadelphia cleaner, greener, and safer as we prepare to shine and welcome the world to our doorstep in 2026. At the Independence Business Alliance, Greater Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, we look forward to continued partnership with the Parker administration in promoting small business growth, streamlined city processes, and workforce development, recognizing that a strong business community is vital to create true access to economic opportunity for our queer and allied communities and all Philadelphians.
Iola Harper, Executive Director of the Women’s Opportunities Resource Center (WORC): “I am deeply grateful for the Administration’s continued investment in micro and small businesses. This is more than an economic imperative—it is a commitment to the entrepreneurs who drive innovation, create jobs, and strengthen communities across Philadelphia. The Administration’s support is vital to organizations like WORC, enabling us to provide the resources, training, and capital that help small businesses grow and thrive. These investments ensure that aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women and marginalized communities, have the opportunity to build sustainable businesses that drive economic mobility and long-term prosperity.”
Jill C. Fink, Executive Director of The Merchants Fund: “The Merchants Fund applauds Mayor Parker’s leadership when it comes to Philadelphia’s small business community and is proud to partner with her administration and the Commerce Department to deliver emergency grant assistance to small businesses most in need. The continued – and increased – investment in the Emergency Grant Program ensures that small businesses that are the heart and soul of our neighborhoods can withstand the financial hardships that result from unforeseen events. From disruptions caused by public works projects to devastating fires to the breakage of essential equipment, emergency grant support can be the difference between our businesses surviving or shuttering its doors. With this budget, Mayor Parker demonstrates her commitment to small businesses and her understanding that small businesses are drivers of economic growth for Philadelphia and economic mobility for those who own them.”
Asya Richardson, Owner of Indian Princess Hair: “I’m proud to stand with our city as Philadelphia’s historic investments transform dreams into reality. With the support of initiatives like the Mayor’s Business Action Team, the Office of Minority Business Success, the Mayor’s Office of Women Engagement, and the Philadelphia Business Lending Network Incentive Grant, Indian Princess Hair has been empowered to innovate and grow. I’m excited about the promise of the new Small Business Catalyst Fund and all that we can achieve together—fueling opportunity, community growth, and lasting success in Philadelphia.”
COMMUNITY COLLEGE FOR MUNICIPAL EMPLOYMENT
Dr. Alycia Marshall, Interim President of Community College of Philadelphia: “As Philadelphia’s only public college, we are deeply honored by Mayor Parker’s bold and visionary investment in our institution. “This budget reflects a powerful belief in the potential of every Philadelphian. Because of the City’s support, we’re not only opening doors to higher education through transformative programs like the Octavius Catto Scholarship—we’re strengthening neighborhoods with Power Up Your Business and building the workforce of tomorrow with the groundbreaking City College for Municipal Employment. Together, we are rewriting what’s possible for our city.”
Dr. David Thomas, Vice president of Strategic Initiatives and Community Engagement at Community College of Philadelphia: “The City College for Municipal Employment is already preparing Philadelphians for in-demand city positions and helping current employees improve their skills,” said Dr. David Thomas, vice president of Strategic Initiatives and Community Engagement at Community College of Philadelphia. “This opportunity is a showcase of the City’s efforts to strengthen our workforce without putting the financial burden on our learners. Through Mayor Parker’s leadership, the CCME is helping Philadelphians advance their lives and enrich our communities, and Community College of Philadelphia is honored to lead this effort.”
Abiah Thomas, City College for Municipal Employment Participant: “As a healthcare pathway student, I am incredibly grateful for the mayor’s initiative. With each step in my journey, I gain valuable skills and confidence, excited to apply them in municipal healthcare and make a meaningful impact in my community.”
Jordan Newberry, City College for Municipal Employment Participant: “City College for Municipal Employment has helped me envision what I can become and set a higher standard for my career goals. This certification is important not only for my self-confidence but also for my family, as it allows me to provide for them. I plan to continue learning and improving to become the best at what I do. Thank you to everyone who created this program for giving me and others the opportunity to grow and succeed.”
Kalen Fisher, Special Projects Manager for the Managing Directors Office: “As a facilitator for the City 101orientation for City College for Municipal Employment (CCME), I was inspired by the enthusiasm and curiosity of the CCME participants, and I was eager to help encourage and foster this kind of civic engagement and interest in the City as an employer. This is the kind of meaningful connection I am committed to fostering as a public servant, bridging the gap between government and the community through open dialogue and shared understanding. I am honored to have been part of this experience and look forward to what’s ahead!”
Cynthia F. Figueroa, President and CEO of JEVS Human Services: “We commend Mayor Parker for prioritizing innovation in workforce development through the City’s College for Municipal Employment (CCME). The collaboration between CCME and JEVS Human Services’ Orleans Technical College has a strong track record of providing career advancement opportunities for city employees in the airport, water, and streets departments. We look forward to continuing this partnership to equip individuals with hands-on skills, mentorship, and clear pathways to independence and economic security.”
Tyra Montague Causey, Adjunct Professor at the Community College of Philadelphia: “I’m incredibly proud to be part of the City College for Municipal Employment. The students I have the privilege of teaching are truly brilliant and foster such a positive, dynamic learning environment. It’s deeply rewarding to empower individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds with the skills and certifications they need to build fulfilling careers that make a meaningful impact on their communities and within their families. I continually remind my students of the unparalleled support this program provides and how fortunate we are to have a visionary leader like Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, who established a program that directly connects students to immediate employment opportunities. I also highlight the incredible diversity within our classroom, which I believe is one of our greatest assets—each student brings unique, valuable, and intelligent insights to every discussion. Teaching in this program is a deeply reciprocal experience; I gain as much knowledge and inspiration from my students as they do from me. Watching their confidence grow and knowing they are embarking on meaningful careers with the City of Philadelphia fills me with hope and optimism for the future of Philadelphia.”
EDUCATION
Dr. Tony B. Watlington, Ed.D., Superintendent, School District of Philadelphia: “Thank you to Mayor Parker and City Council for their continued investment in the School District of Philadelphia. The approval of the Mayor’s FY 2025 budget includes additional investments in education and an expansion of the Extended Day, Extended Year enrichment and career development program to 40 sites, 30 for public schools, 10 charter schools. Our strong collaboration under the Mayor’s ‘One Philly 2.0’ budget assists students in accelerating academic achievement as they imagine and fulfill any future they desire. Thank you for reaching across the aisle to work toward the District becoming the fastest improving, large urban school district.”
Dr. Stacy Holland, Executive Director of Elevate 215: “On behalf of the students, schools, and educators we support, we thank Mayor Cherelle Parker for her steadfast commitment to increasing funding for Philadelphia education. The mayor’s leadership strengthens our collective mission to build a more equitable education system. Elevate 215 and the Philadelphia Citywide Talent Coalition are proud partners of the mayor in recruiting, developing, and retaining teachers who are the most important determinant of academic growth for our students. Together, as ‘One Philly,’ we will continue moving forward, united in our pursuit of a brighter, stronger future for all our students and educators.”
Dr. William Hayes, Board President of the Philadelphia Charters for Excellence and CEO of Boys’ Latin of Philadelphia: “We appreciate the mayor’s commitment to ensuring that all students—regardless of where they attend school—have access to the academic and extracurricular opportunities they need to thrive. This commitment is evident in the expansion of the extended day program, which now includes more students, including those in public charter schools. Investments in key initiatives that broaden learning opportunities across the city reflect a strong vision for educational equity. We are encouraged by the focus on expanding these opportunities and look forward to continued collaboration to ensure that every student has equitable access and the opportunity to succeed.”
CLEAN & GREEN
Matt Rader, President of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society: “PHS is proud to support the Mayor’s 2026 budget and her deep commitment to greening Philadelphia. As an advocate and key partner in this work, we know that planting trees and expanding green assets leads to better health, stronger communities, access to jobs and small business opportunity, and meaningful improvements in daily life for residents across the city.”
Dennis Lee, President of the Business Association of West Parkside: “The Business Association of West Parkside (BAWP) supports the Mayor’s Clean and Green Initiatives and FY26 budget for the impact it makes on our neighborhoods including in the lives of our West Philadelphia community members, at least 18 of which have gained employment from Clean and Green. For Mayor Parker to put in dollars, over 300,000 invested in personnel in our community, we thank her. Thank you, Mayor Cherelle Parker. We are ‘ONE PHILLY’.”
Thoai Nguyen, CEO, Southeast Asian Mutual Assistance Association Coalition (SEAMMAC): “With decades of research demonstrating that robust investments, in green infrastructures, tree plantings, and maintaining clean streets in historically divested neighborhoods, can significantly reduce crime and violence, increase economic opportunities, and improve the overall health of a community, SEAMAAC fully supports Mayor Parker’s plans to continue funding these vital Clean and Green Initiatives.”
Thera Martin, Business Corridor Manager, Allegheny West Foundation: “The Clean and Green initiative is working, and translated that means, keep funding the programs. Mayor Parker’s Plan to put investments directly towards making Philly better is the way to go.”
Jerome Shabazz, MS, Executive Director, Overbrook Environmental Education Center: “For the past two decades, I’ve actively participated in smart energy and environmental development and can attest to the importance of Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s investments in a cleaner and greener city. Her integrative leadership ensures that there will be cross-departmental collaboration to tackle quality-of-life issues like litter, illegal dumping, abandoned vehicles, and graffiti. Mayor Parker’s establishment of the Clean and Green Cabinet is also a key initiative within her administration that helps to bring efficiency to the interaction of government agencies, businesses, and community partners, all working together to develop data-driven strategies for waste reduction, increased recycling, and sustainability efforts that improve the city’s built and natural environments, community-health and economic vitality within all neighborhoods.”