Committee on Legislative Oversight 10-26-26

Philadelphia City Council’s Committee on Legislative Oversight held a public hearing on October 26, 2026, under Resolution 260737 concerning the closure of the Academy of Natural Sciences’ public museum, its effects on Philadelphia, and options to preserve public access and the Academy’s scientific and educational mission. The mayor’s administration did not attend; its written testimony said Drexel University and the Academy were working with state and city representatives. Council members and witnesses criticized the short notice and lack of public engagement, questioned the future of the Parkway building and the collections, and called for transparency and an independent assessment. Drexel representatives said the closure followed a two-year strategic study, cited the museum’s operating deficit, and said the Academy’s 19 million specimens and research work remain in place while longer-term options are considered. Figures discussed included $49 million in direct support from Drexel over 15 years, an approximately $80 million Academy endowment, and differing estimates of public-program costs and revenue; witnesses also cited a William Penn Foundation offer of temporary operating support and a $480,000 Pew-funded strategic-planning study. No contract award, RFP, bid approval, or other procurement action was identified. Council Member Nina Ahmad announced plans for an advisory task force, and the chair said the hearing would be recessed while the committee pursued subpoenas; no vote on funding or procurement was recorded.