The Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors has been lobbying on your behalf to save the ten year abatement! Today at City Council’s first session back from summer recess, Councilman At Large, W. Wilson Goode, Jr. brought his bill#120651 up for final vote. However, because of the tireless efforts of GPAR leadership and volunteers in conjunction with our coalition partners such as the Building Industry Association, the Development Workshop, other concerned citizens , and your contributions to RPAC (the Realtor Political Action Committee), we have AGAIN  beaten back efforts to dismantle the Ten Year Tax Abatement on new and renovated construction.  

 A recap of Thursday’s events:

Councilman Goode, Jr. called for a vote on his dismantling of the Ten Year Abatement.  Our collective, hearty lobbying efforts caused Councilman Greenlee to move to “table” the bill. Councilman Bill Green gave a great speech on behalf of keeping the abatements as is. He articulately began naming a myriad of projects that have utilized the Ten Year Abatement to bring new residents into the City and retain residents who could have chosen to move out. Had it not been for these abatements would these projects have reached fruition?  The motion to table passed overwhelmingly.

This is a victory BUT our work is not yet finished. Councilman Goode Jr. in his final speech stated that he will call the bill up for a vote every week until it passes, and his “friends” from Fight for Philly, who filled chambers chanting for more funds for the schools, will be there as well. 

WE NEED TO KILL THIS BILL ONCE AND FOR ALL!!!!!

Indeed, GPAR is actively promoting a bill to extend the abatement in more challenged areas of the city where the current abatement has not yet spurred interest in development/renovations. Please visit the Ten Year Abatement website below and email, call, visit Council – Urge them VOTE NO on Bill 120651 

HELP keep the Philadelphia Ten Year Tax Abatement in effect – it is available to EVERYONE. It promotes new construction, renovations, jobs, and strongly aids in broadening Philadelphia’s tax base.  Visit phillytaxabatement.com

For more information contact Jim Onesti 215.440.2052 or jonesti@mccannteam.com