How Philly Works:
Complete Guide
Philadelphia is known as the birthplace of American democracy. However, many Philadelphians feel disconnected from their government, leaving many questions and concerns. How Philly Works is dedicated to helping citizens navigate the rules and role of city government.
How Philly Works: A Guide to Our City Government
Increasing participation in local elections
How the Philadelphia Ward System Works
Philadelphia’s 66 wards determine a great deal about who holds power in the city’s political landscape. This guide describes how decisions are made and how you can get involved.
How Philly Works School Curriculum
The “How Philly Works” guide has been adapted into free classroom resources for teachers. Use our six out-of-the-box lessons with students today! Click below to access the curriculum.
How Philly Works:
The Mayor and Key Issues
The mayor plays a key role in a variety of issues that impact residents’ quality of life. In many ways, they can make decisions and deploy resources at will. But the mayor’s power is also limited — by state and federal law, labor contracts, and by other elected offices, including City Council. See these six infographics on the mayor’s role across several key issue areas:
These resources were made possible by the generous support of the Lenfest Institute for Journalism, with special thanks to Jeanne Maier of 12 Squared Design and the several subject-matter experts who reviewed this material.
The Mayor and City Finances
Learn how the mayor works with city officials to maintain the city’s finances.
The Mayor and City Schools
Learn how the mayor plays a direct role in managing Philadelphia’s public schools.
The Mayor and Public Safety
Learn how the mayor works with the Police Commissioner to ensure community safety.
The Mayor and Land-Use
Learn more about how the mayor works with City Council to determine what gets built in the city.
The Mayor and Data Equity
Learn how the mayor creates a vision for data-based decision-making in city government.
The Mayor and Behavioral Health
Learn how the mayor creates a vision for resident and community wellness. Support for this graphic was provided by the Scattergood Foundation.
City Council Transition Sessions
The Committee of Seventy, with support from the William Penn Foundation, hosted a series of briefings beginning in the fall of 2023 to help manage upcoming transitions into office for the mayor and City Council. In an effort to share insights from the briefings with the public, Seventy released several columns on the sessions written by Dave Davies.