The importance of local government in Philadelphia politics cannot be overstated. It is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the city, from providing services to citizens to managing the city's finances. The local government is composed of several different entities, all of which work together to ensure the city runs smoothly. At the top of the local government hierarchy is the Mayor of Philadelphia.
This individual is elected by the citizens of Philadelphia and is responsible for setting the overall direction and policies for the city. The Mayor also appoints members to the City Council, which is made up of legislators who represent Philadelphia and serve four-year terms. The City Council is responsible for passing laws and ordinances that govern how the city operates. They also have oversight over certain departments, such as Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, the Office of Arts and Culture and Creative Economy, and the city's financial support for the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
In addition to these entities, there are also state and local taxes that are collected in Philadelphia. A recent analysis by The Pew Charitable Trusts of the state and local tax burden in Philadelphia and its suburbs reveals that the tax disadvantage of living in the city has decreased to its lowest point in 15 years, making Philadelphia more affordable than many surrounding cities. The role of local government in Philadelphia politics is essential for ensuring that citizens receive quality services, that laws are enforced, and that taxes are collected fairly. It is also important for maintaining a healthy economy and providing a safe environment for citizens to live in. By understanding how local government works, citizens can better understand their rights and responsibilities as well as how their tax dollars are being used.
