Honoring Barbara J. Kaplan.

WHEREAS, Barbara Kaplan joined the staff of the Philadelphia City Planning Commission in 1974 as Senior Housing Planner. She brought with her to this position extensive training in the governments of North Central Texas, San Diego and Los Angeles. She has also served as Executive Director of the Pennsport Urban Renewal Area in South Philadelphia; and

WHEREAS, Ms. Kaplan brought a seriousness of purpose and a comprehensive vision to her job, and she quickly earned the confidence and respect of her superiors and colleagues alike. She became increasingly involved in City-wide issues and was held in high esteem by community groups, elected and appointed officials and employees throughout the government; and

WHEREAS, In July, 1983, Barbara Kaplan was named Executive Director of the Planning Commission, and in that capacity, her responsibilities grew to include preparation of the Capital Program as well as planning for the development of the waterfront, the Pennsylvania Convention Center, the Historic Preservation Ordinance, and long-range planning for North and West Philadelphia and Center City. She also coordinated the City's preparation for the Year 2000 Census; and

WHEREAS, Ms. Kaplan has advocated for historic districts, for careful neighborhood planning and community renewal, for serious environmental care and thoughtful preservation along with exciting plans for the future. She has been a public servant in the best sense of the word, and she has fought long and hard for a balanced approach to the city's future. As we acknowledge her retirement from city service, we wish her everything good in all her future endeavors; now therefore

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby honor and commend Barbara J. Kaplan for her outstanding service to the City of Philadelphia.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Barbara J. Kaplan as evidence of the sincere admiration and very high esteem of this legislative body.

End