Home  /  Public Issues  /  Ethics  /  City Council Candidate Responses to Ethics Agenda

6

Joan L. Krajewski (D)

I agree to oppose any bill as it pertains to the 2007 primary and general election.

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William Greenlee (D)

To weaken our existing campaign finance laws at this time is a step in the wrong direction.

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David Oh (R)

I agree in general, however, I would go further. Limiting the amount of the contribution does not go far enough in addressing the concern. Wealthy individuals can spend unlimited amounts of money on their campaign. This type of system favors the wealthy and encourages a new type of dishonesty.

7

Maria Quinones Sanchez (D)

I will support a comprehensive review of the campaign finance system. I will sponsor or co-sponsor legislation for public financing of city campaigns.

AL

William Greenlee (D)

Clean elections and public financing are working in a number of states and municipalities. The Maine model for Clean Elections is certainly worthy of evaluating.

1

Frank DiCicco (D)

I disagree. The fact that someone maybe related by blood or by marriage does not mean that the individual is not the most qualified for the position in question. I will not support legislation to forbid nepotism. However, I do think it is reasonable to make these relations public knowledge. I would strongly support legislation that clearly identifies familial relations in the hiring and appointing process.

2

Anna Verna (D)

While I personally would not hire a member of my immediate family, I do not believe legislation would be appropriate.

6

Joan Krajewski (D)

I support enactment of this legislation as it pertains to immediate family.

AL

William Greenlee (D)

Philadelphia should be a meritocracy. The citizens of Philadelphia deserve a city government that values ability above political patronage.

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Patricia Mattern (R)

I agree as to immediate family members.

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David Oh (R)

I disagree. I believe that the best qualified individual should be hired or appointed. Many times, the desire and ability to serve the public is shared by family members and the friends they make. For example, President John F. Kennedy appointed his brother Robert F. Kennedy to serve as the Attorney General. I think it better to ensure that the hiring and appointment of city employees is based on merit by making the process transparent and objective. I will support legislation which ends the hiring of unqualified individuals simply because they are related to or favored by a powerful elected official, appointee or supervisor.

1

Frank DiCicco (D)

I agree. However, I will admit that a member of my immediate family has been appointed by other officials to various boards. Note that these appointments were not made at my suggestion or recommendation. Further, I currently employ members of my extended family; their job performance has always met or exceeded expectations.

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David Oh (R)

I disagree. I will hire or appoint the best and most qualified person for the job regardless of race, religion, disability, gender, age, ethnic origin, or sexual preference. I will neither favor nor disfavor a candidate based purely on their relationship to, or friendship with, me. I will support legislation which penalizes elected officials, appointees or supervisors who hire or recommend for hiring, immediate family members who are not among the best qualified candidates for the position.

1

Frank DiCicco (D)

I agree in principal but would require seeing said rules prior to offering full support. Recently, I ushered zoning reform through City Council and repeatedly stated that I should not have as much control as a District Councilperson as I currently have. However, every District Councilperson knows the needs and concerns of their district better than the other members of Council. Therefore I don’t think there is an appropriate black and white answer.

For example, Councilman Longstreth’s introduction of a bill to permit IKEA to move forward in South Philadelphia was inappropriate. While the project may have been best for the city as a whole, it did not include the appropriate protections for near neighbors, the port and others. As the District Councilman, I knew those concerns and the intricacies of the neighbors better than others.

Having said that, a new zoning code would most likely remove me completely from the approval processes, giving residents a say at the front end of the process (i.e., rewriting the code and remapping), rather than at the back end.

1

Mike Seidenberg (R)

Adopting such a set of ground rules will likely lead to a city government that is less responsive to the people, not more. Districting is an important aspect of representative government and the adoption of any ground rules in advance of any particular legislation would result in ceding legislative leverage that might otherwise be used to better represent or even protect the residents of a Council member’s district.

Furthermore, I question whether holding such leverage is actually unethical. The other reforms on the Agenda correctly address situations that could possibly lead to real conflicts of interest for an elected official. The higher degree of control a Council member has over projects in his or her own district is a natural result of dividing the City into council districts. I do not believe a conflict of interest is possible as long as Council members properly represent their constituents in any matter before them. If that reduces the likelihood a project being approved, then so be it.

In the end, the people of this city are better served by dialogue, persuasion, and negotiation than by a set of pre-established ground rules that will likely limit the ability of their elected officials to fully represent them.

2

Anna Verna (D)

I believe, in general, all Council members seek to serve the best interests of the City as a whole. However, I still believe the District Council members are in the best possible position to understand the needs of their district.

6

Joan Krajewski (D)

I strongly disagree with this statement. District Council members are elected by their constituents to act in their best interests. District Council members have an intimate knowledge of the neighborhoods in their district, the civic associations, business groups, etc. It is in the best interests of the constituents that district council members have direct control over development, zoning and other projects in the district.

7

Gary Grisafi (R)

The people of a particular district elected their councilperson to fight for their neighborhood. For example: a councilperson in West Phila. should not have a say in what goes on in Northeast Philadelphia.

7

Maria Quinones Sanchez (D)

I will support the adoption of a set of ground rules to balance the absolute control of Council members over development and projects in their home districts with the best interest of the city as a whole. I will also urge the reforming of the Zoning code and work with the planning commission to ensure that we develop neighborhood plans throughout the 7th district so that residents can work to develop projects as opposed to wasting time opposing projects.

AL

William Greenlee (D)

The city’s ten council districts are sometimes described as individual fiefdoms, in part because of district council members’ de facto veto power over development and other projects in their home districts. In general, the City’s Zoning Code needs to rewritten consistent with a master plan for the City. We have far too many zoning districts and the process is too complicated. Chicago has an online permitting process we should look at. Consistency and efficiency in the process are necessary to spur economic development and investment. However, the new zoning laws and master plan should pursue contextual zoning that maintains quality of life in our neighborhoods. These goals are undermined when our City’s ten District Council Members exercise de facto veto power over development in their home districts.

AL

Patricia Mattern (R)

I agree that District Council members should not have absolute control over development. However, District Council members are elected to represent the interests of their constituents and must be permitted to do so, subject to ethical constraints.

2

Anna Verna (D)

The current conflict of interest rules are sufficient so #6 is not necessary.

I agree that elected officials in order to avoid conflicts of interest—real or perceived--should avoid having personal financial interest in the city’s business.

6

Joan Krajewski (D)

I agree to the extent that the prohibition should only to apply to companies or firms that currently do business with the city. Further discussion and hearings need to be held to create guidelines dealing with businesses that may seek to do business with the city at a future date.

10

Brian O’Neill (R)

I support the enactment of legislation that prohibits members of City Council from owning any business that does business with the city or intends to do business with the city. I believe that Council members who are employed on a part-time basis should never be involved in obtaining city business for that Council member’s employer.

AL

Jack Kelly (R)

I do not support the enactment of legislation that prohibits members of City Council and other elected officials from holding positions with, or owning any interest in, a company or firm that does, or might seek to do, business with the city. I believe that it is the ethical responsibility of Council members to recuse themselves from voting on any legislation that affects, directly or indirectly, the company or firm with which that member is associated.

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Patricia Mattern (R)

I believe that such a blanket prohibition may keep qualified and desirable individuals from seeking office. For instance, a member of City Council may hold a position with a large firm, but obtain no financial benefit from completely unrelated business with the City. City Council members have an ethical obligation to recuse themselves from voting on any legislation which might impact any company or firm with which they are affiliated. I would support more narrow legislation to address specific concerns.

AL

David Oh (R)

I disagree. I believe this will discourage many excellent and innovative people who would like to devote a period of time to public service. Our City has benefited greatly from the abilities of private sector leaders who have worked on a part-time or temporary basis. This has included officers and employees of corporations which do business with the City. Their understanding of, and connections within, Philadelphia’s government has also helped their private employers become more competitive and productive. David L. Cohen, Executive Vice President of Comcast and former Chief of Staff to Mayor Ed Rendell is an example of this type of combined leadership that has helped our City in both the public and private sectors. I will support legislation which enforces “conflict of interest” standards and requires disclosure and transparency. I believe the federal standard is a good model for us to follow.

1

Frank DiCicco (D)

It would depend on what those “reasonable and well-articulated” regulations might be. Fully disclosure – I am a licensed real estate agent. Never has that work interfered with my duties and responsibilities as a City Councilman.

6

Joan Krajewski (D)

I disagree with this statement and would not support this legislation. “Reasonable and well articulated” is vague, as is the term “public official”. Non-government employees often seek new employment while working their old job. Why should we restrict city employees? Further discussion needed on this issue.

AL

William Greenlee (D)

According to the Board of Ethics, there is currently no ethics law that deals with a public official negotiating for future employment with a private company that does business with the City.

AL

Patricia Mattern (R)

I have reservations about this proposal without further definition of “reasonable and well-articulated”. Most individuals seek future employment while still employed so as not to be unemployed when their current position ends. Any such legislation needs to be carefully crafted to address the particular abuse sought to be remedied by it.

6

Joan Krajewski (D)

I would not support such an amendment. The power to determine if/when special election should remain with the President of City Council.

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William Greenlee (D)

The timing of a special election to fill a vacancy on City Council is left to the discretion of the President of City Council. This leaves open the possibility of one or more vacancies remaining unfilled for long periods of time, thereby undermining the effectiveness of the legislative process and leaving constituents unrepresented. In addition, there needs to be a more open process for filling vacancies on the City Council.

1

Frank DiCicco (D)

I agree; however, it would be disingenuous to promise that I will never make calls or hold other conversations during Committee hearings, if and when it is necessary to serve the needs of my constituents.

Yes, I agree. Councilmembers are PUBLIC SERVANTS and as such, are employees of the voters. Council should strive to maintain dignity and decorum that the honor of public office represents. Even in the height of debate and heartfelt disagreements, Council must resolve to settle disputes and conflicts with open dialogue and a civil democratic process.

6

Joan Krajewski (D)

I have always have acted in a professional manner, and will continue to do so in the future.

AL

William Greenlee (D)

Our entire City government needs to adopt a better customer service attitude. This shift must start with the next Mayor and City Council. Too many people complain that Council meetings are inhospitable to citizens, characterized by members talking on cell phones, walking in and out of the room and, on occasion, marked by displays of unruly behavior and open hostility among members.

1

Frank DiCicco (D)

I agree. However, I also recognize some of the technological and logistical challenges the proposal entails. In addition, there is a supposition that Council has acted inappropriately at one time or another. I cannot recall a time when “important changes effective happened behind closed doors…” and would appreciate specific examples. Specific examples allow Council to correct specific problems.

In addition, it is important to note that no ordinance may be passed by Council at the time of introduction. It takes several weeks to reach final passage and public notice is always required. Hence, despite Council’s faults, lack of transparency is not one.

2

Anna Verna (D)

I believe Council already is one of the most accessible of legislative bodies, and I will continue to uphold that tradition.

Yes, I agree. An educated and well-informed voter is the best deterrent to unethical conduct.

6

Joan Krajewski (D)

Evening hours are usually spent meeting with various groups throughout the city. Council meetings should continue to be held at City Hall. Timely and complete transcripts should be accessible as fast as possible on the City web site.

7

Maria Quinones Sanchez (D)

I will also urge the translation of information whenever possible.

AL

William Greenlee (D)

The City Charter requirement that all City Council meetings be open and accessible to the public at all times has often been sidestepped, with important changes effectively happening behind closed doors or meetings scheduled at times when most members of the public are unable to attend.

AL

Patricia Mattern (R)

I agree, subject to technical and practical limitations.

2

Anna Verna (D)

I believe the current standards are sufficient.

6

Joan Krajewski (D)

I believe that current law calls for these reports to be made available seven times annually. I believe that this number is sufficient.

7

Gary Grisafi (R)

I don’t mind publishing names of people who donate, but the people who wish to give a very small amount ($5, 10, 25, 35, etc.) and don’t wish to have their names published on websites, I have to respect their privacy. It might prevent poor candidates like myself from raising money.

10

Brian O’Neill (R)

I support legislation that would establish more frequent reporting than is now required by state law.

AL

Jack Kelly (R)

I do not agree to frequently publish (above and beyond what is required by state law) the names of all donors to my campaign account, political committees and non-governmental organizations I control. However, I do support legislation that would establish more frequent reporting than is currently required by state law.

AL

Patricia Mattern (R)

At this time, I cannot agree to publish beyond what is currently required without further clarification of this measure. However, I would consider additional legislation regarding publication.

AL

William Greenlee (D)

Once again we should be a meritocracy.

1

Frank DiCicco (D)

I agree. However, I would encourage the Board to issue appropriate deadlines in the future in order to guarantee compliance. For example, the notice and deadline of the recent guidelines for electronic filing were poor.

1

Frank DiCicco (D)

I agree. However, would such “General Counsel” overlap with the Inspector General? Should the positions be combined? How would said counsel be appointed?

6

Joan Krajewski (D)

Undecided

AL

Patricia Mattern (R)

I agree in concept, but would appreciate clarification of how such an independent General Counsel would be appointed.

AL

David Oh (R)

While I do not disagree, I would have to study this issue further upon taking office. I am concerned that creating and paying for a new position entitled, General Counsel, may entail unnecessary duplication when we do not have enough funds for even the most important services and programs. We have an elected District Attorney, an elected Sheriff, an elected Controller and an appointed Inspector General. I would certainly fund the Board of Ethics so that it could interface with these existing organizations in an effective manner.

2

Anna Verna (D)

I believe the current standards are sufficient.

AL

Blondell Reynolds Brown (D)

I could support an initiative like this, provided the nominal amount is not set incredibly low.

2

Anna Verna (D)

I believe this is not a serious problem that needs to be addressed, especially now that campaign finance limitations have been enacted.

6

Joan Krajewski (D)

I would be amenable to reasonable limitations, but would not support any legislation that would seek to prohibit certain usage of these tickets.

1

Frank DiCicco (D)

I agree. For the record, I already obey all laws regulating political activities.

AL

William Greenlee (D)

While the City Charter already forbids City Council members from engaging in political activity that takes place during scheduled hours of City employment, the lines between doing Council work and campaign work are too often blurred.

Yes, I agree. This recommendation is similar to what lobbyists are required to do for the Commonwealth of PA, in the name of full disclosure. Philadelphia needs to do this now to instill a sense that we are serious about accountability.

6

Joan Krajewski (D)

I would co-sponsor this legislation.

AL

William Greenlee (D)

Lobbyists or lawyers acting as lobbyists are often perceived as having improper or undue influence on decisions made by the Office of the Mayor, City Council and other City departments, agencies and commissions. Again, the people of Philadelphia deserve to know who is trying to influence public policy and who they are doing it for.

1

Frank DiCicco (D)

I agree and will lead the charge!!

Yes, I agree. There is a need to de-politicize the redistricting process. Once the mayor and city council agree on the priorities (i.e. population, size, etc) that should inform the process, it is reasonable to convene some form of non-partisan commission to implement the policy developed by the city’s elected leaders.

6

Joan Krajewski (D)

Undecided

AL

William Greenlee (D)

A recent study found that Philadelphia has two City Council districts whose political lines are among the most unevenly drawn in the nation. A fair redistricting should occur during the next City Council term in office.

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William Greenlee (D)

Again, we need more transparency in our city government. Philadelphia has a poor reputation when it comes to disclosure of public documents. In addition, we should make these documents available on line at http://www.phila.gov/.