Councilmember Defends Philly Political Practice of ‘Councilmanic Prerogative’
On last week’s Wednesday politics episode, we heard criticism about a decades-long tradition in city government called “councilmanic prerogative.” This power enables our ten district City Council members to greenlight or stop projects on city-owned land in their districts – and get the final say on zoning changes. Councilmember Jeffrey “Jay” Young, Jr. has become a focus of criticism because he refused to allow the reconstruction of the dilapidated Cecil B. Moore Library to move forward. He’s here to defend the practice – and his vision for the library.
Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly
Call or text us: 215-259-8170
We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly
You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm.
Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:
- PA Preferred
- Delaware River Waterfront Corporation
Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Stay connected to City Cast Philly and get ready to join the local conversation.
Latest Episodes
Waymo Comes to Town, Fetterman Votes for War & Philly Drinks for America’s 250th
It's the Friday News Roundup! Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz talk through whether City Council has the power to regula...
Goin’ Down the Shore: A Beginner's Guide to the Jersey Shore
It’s that time of year when Philadelphians are making their summer plans. And that means it's time to book those weeks and weekends down...
Tuesday’s Election: A Noisy Congressional Race & a Quiet Mystery Contest
The 2026 Pennsylvania primary is next week, on May 19. Do you know what’s on your ballot? Host Trenae Nuri runs through what you’re votin...
What's in Philly's Smoke Shop Drugs?
Chocolate bars like Polka Dot Mushroom Magic Blend and tablets like Ms. Molli Cule’s have a few things in common: You can get these over...
Golf is Changing: Here's How to Experience the Sport in Philly
After over 60 years, the PGA Championship ー basically the Super Bowl of golf ー is back in the Philly area. The professional men's champio...
'Your City Could Be Better': Philly's Bold Nightlife Experiment
It's a big year for Philly! This summer, the city is anticipating a record-breaking number of tourists coming to town for World Cup games...
Mayor Parker Signs Anti-ICE Bills, Congressional Candidate Under Fire & Knicks Fans Attempt Takeover
It's the Friday news roundup. Catch up on the controversial 'no' vote that State Representative Chris Rabb, a 3rd Congressional District...
Why These Philly Parks Got 1-Star Reviews
Philly is giving its neighborhood parks some TLC this weekend with the start of Love Your Park Week. Running from May 9 through 17, this...
'Why Are We Closing Schools That Work?' Councilmember Critiques District Schools Plan
A heated Philadelphia School Board meeting ended in a 6-3 vote, which approved a $3 billion facilities plan that would close 17 schools a...
Why Philly's Sidewalks Suck
It seems like a crack in the sidewalk or broken curb should be an easy fix. However, in Philly these issues get complicated because it is...