The Public Now Gets To Speak At Philly City Council Meetings
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A new type of democracy arrived at Philadelphia City Council today. The lawmakers -- under orders from the state Supreme Court -- for the first time opened the floor for public comment.
And among those speaking was the man who battled Council and won.
Darrell Zaslow (standing at lectern in photo) is attorney for Hapco -- the Homeowners Association of Philadelphia -- the group that sued for and won the right to speak before City Council at its regular meetings.
"You can fight City Hall. I'm sure the residents will be appropriate in their comments and the city as a whole is going to benefit by the new rules as they implement them," Zaslow said today.
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court last month ruled in favor of Hapco and ordered Council to allow public comment at not just committee hearings, but full meetings.
Thursday, Council president Anna Verna took that step.
"We will consider public comment," Verna announced at the appropriate moment during the Council meeting.
Four people signed up to speak, and among them was Zaslow.
"Madame President, allow me to express my appreciation for the historic opportunity to address this Council," he began.
The other three citizens speaking were tow truck operators protesting a bill that would give the Philadelphia Parking Authority control over the private towing business. Council's final vote on that measure was, however, postponed.
Reported by Mike Dunn, KYW Newsradio 1060.
