WHEREAS, Philadelphia is experiencing an historic moment in the evolution of gas- and energy-related opportunities; and
WHEREAS, The area's potential is enormous and unprecedented. The Philadelphia region holds great promise as an energy hub, given its close proximity to the Marcellus Shale and its strategic location in the Northeast region of the country; and
WHEREAS, The region is poised to become a national leader in energy production and innovation, thereby attracting businesses, advancing manufacturing activity, reducing consumer costs, and promoting sustainable economic growth; and
WHEREAS, On October 30, 2014, Council adopted Resolution No. 140869 to fully explore opportunities to further establish the Philadelphia region as an energy hub; and
WHEREAS, On November 13 and 14, 2014, City Council held two productive days of hearings on that resolution, but in such a compressed period of time, only the tip of the iceberg was brought to light; and
WHEREAS, Among other key features of the region, the Philadelphia Gas Works, remains at the heart and soul of any future transformation of the area into a successful energy hub; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That Council hereby authorizes the creation of a Special Committee on Energy Opportunities for Philadelphia, consisting of those City Council members appointed by the Council President, to continue to investigate the potential to establish the City of Philadelphia and the region as an energy hub.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Special Committee's charge shall include soliciting conceptual proposals, holding public hearings, and conducting research, all aimed at developing strategies for developing Philadelphia and the region as an energy hub. The scope of work shall include, but not be limited to, identifying strategies for enhancing the Philadelphia Gas Works through such means as reforming its governance or entering into joint ventures and public-private partnerships.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That in furtherance of its mission, the Special Committee is hereby authorized to issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents to the full extent authorized under Section 2-401 of The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Special Committee shall submit a full report to the Council and the Mayor and make its findings and recommendations available to the public.
End