Authorizing the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings on the economic impact of the film industry in Philadelphia.

Whereas, Philadelphia has a thriving film industry that has brought international acclaim to our city; and

Whereas, Greater Philadelphia Film Office markets all the City of Philadelphia has to offer to film production teams around the world, helping attract investment; and

Whereas, Greater Philadelphia Film Office provides support to local film and video artists, as well as supports film production teams from around the world with a wide range of tasks, including navigating City services and requirements, hiring local businesses and workers, and coordinating with community organizations; and

Whereas, Greater Philadelphia Film Office runs the Greater Philadelphia Filmmaker Program, which is designed to meet the needs of local media artists and technicians with seminars, business and technical training to help aspiring and experienced film professions; and

Whereas, Greater Philadelphia Film Office is creating a new partnership with the Fund for the School District to create a film industry skills program at Strawberry Mansion High School, which will be expanded to other schools in the future; and

Whereas, Greater Philadelphia Film Office was established in 1985 as part of the city government, recognizing the important impact of the film industry on our local economy; and

Whereas, Since 1992, when the Greater Philadelphia Film Office expanded into a regional non-profit economic development agency, it has had more than $6 billion in economic impact; and

Whereas, For every dollar the City grants to the Greater Philadelphia Film Office, $638 were spent directly in the City of Philadelphia; and

Whereas, With streaming services and traditional film and television, there is an immense opportunity to take advantage of the booming production industry; and

Whereas, Neighboring states and peer cities have eclipsed the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the City of Philadelphia in providing economic incentives for film production; and

Whereas, During the COVID-19 pandemic, all City funding for the Greater Philadelphia Film Office was eliminated and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania previously eliminated funding, meaning FY21 was the first year the Greater Philadelphia Film Office received no public financial support; and

Whereas, Philadelphia’s tourism industry depends upon the star power of the films and television shows that are shot locally to draw visitors every year; and

Whereas, In order to rebuild our economy and fully invest in arts and culture, The City of Philadelphia must invest in the Greater Philadelphia Film Office and have a coordinated strategy to attract production and develop local talent; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That Council does hereby authorize the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings on the economic impact of the film industry in Philadelphia.

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