This is worth a read. From our Friends at The Committee of Seventy
How Philly Works: Councilmanic Prerogative
City Council members praise its virtues. Newspaper editorials cast it as bad provincial politics. You may not be familiar with the term, but chances are you’ve seen it in action. Important building projects in Philadelphia – like the Sugar House Casino and the Barnes Museum – were impacted by Councilmanic Prerogative. So even if you don’t know what it means, you already know what it does.
In a nutshell, Councilmanic Prerogative refers to the near-absolute powers wielded by City Council members over land development projects in their districts. Each of the ten District Council members can help advance these projects or halt them in their tracks. Though this practice is not written into any law or rule book, each District Council member receives full deference from their Council colleagues when making these decisions about their own district. It’s their prerogative.
Soon, Councilmanic Prerogative may become a household word (or words).
One reason could be Philadelphia’s new zoning code which was signed into law last month. This 21st century upgrade seeks to improve the world of Philadelphia development, but it sidesteps Councilmanic Prerogative.
Another reason for increased attention about Councilmanic Prerogative is Mayor Michael Nutter’s interest in rehabbing thousands of blighted properties across the city. And the new President of City Council, Darrell Clarke, has proposed “Development Districts” where you can buy land for well below market rate. As these efforts move forward, Councilmanic Prerogative will be front and center.
Of all the powers used by Council, it’s perhaps the one with the most concentrated authority and the most visible effects. Which is why we want you to understand it.
This installment of “HOW PHILLY WORKS” will begin to get you up to speed on this important – if not hard to pronounce – practice of City Council.
– January 4, 2012
HallWatch Philadelphia 