Committee of the Whole: Budget Hearing 04-15-2026 (Morning)

The Philadelphia City Council held a Committee of the Whole budget hearing on April 15, 2026, featuring testimonies from Jane Golden, Executive Director of the Mural Arts Program, and Emily Shapiro, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA). The Mural Arts Program highlighted its extensive public art projects, including over 4,000 murals citywide, and its restorative justice workforce program that employs returning citizens. They requested increased funding to support additional mural projects, restoration efforts, and community engagement spaces like the Tacony Lab. The Philadelphia Energy Authority reported on its $1.3 billion investment in clean energy projects, job creation, and energy infrastructure improvements, requesting a $4 million budget allocation for FY27 to scale operations and leverage additional funding. Council members discussed the importance of these programs, questioned budget allocations, and emphasized the need for sustained and increased funding to support public art, clean energy initiatives, and workforce development. The hearing concluded with a motion to recess until the next scheduled meeting.