Urging the Administration to pursue comprehensive qualitative and quantitative efforts to improve access to good-paying jobs in the City of Philadelphia.

WHEREAS, Data shows that Philadelphia jobs have decreased 23% since 1970, leaving the city with fewer jobs and businesses per resident than comparable cities and the region’s suburbs; and

WHEREAS, Philadelphia’s “highest-among-big cities poverty rate” is, in part, because the city doesn’t have enough people working in jobs that pay good wages; and

WHEREAS,

Philadelphia has few large, for-profit employers compared to other cities, contributing to low business density; that correlates with fewer startups, lower economic output, and higher poverty; and

WHEREAS, The City of Philadelphia is committed to fostering economic growth, reducing poverty, and improving the quality of life for its residents; and

WHEREAS, Good paying jobs are essential for the wellbeing and prosperity of local businesses, individuals, families, and communities, providing stability, dignity, and upward mobility; and

WHEREAS, Ensuring the availability of good paying jobs promotes social equity, reduces income inequality, and creates a more inclusive and resilient economy; and

WHEREAS, Access to good paying jobs supports the City's efforts to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce, fostering innovation and competitiveness in key sectors; and

WHEREAS, A robust job market encourages entrepreneurship, strengthens small businesses, and contributes to the overall economic vitality of Philadelphia; and

WHEREAS, The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical importance of stable employment and financial security, making the need for good paying jobs even more crucial in the post-pandemic recovery; and

WHEREAS, To increase jobs, Philadelphia must grow and attract more businesses and talent.

Business owners need a tax structure that allows them to pay better wages and hire more people; and

WHEREAS, Philadelphia's commitment to good paying jobs aligns with the City's broader goals of economic prosperity, social equity, and community well-being in Philadelphia; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That City Council urges the Administration to pursue comprehensive qualitative and quantitative efforts to improve the access to good-paying jobs so both the City and its residents can prosper.

End