Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP)

Philadelphia

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How To Build A Better City Budget

June 9, 2026 • By Rita Jefferson

How To Build A Better City Budget

As rising costs strain our community and household budgets, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker’s proposed taxes attempted to patch gaping holes with meager solutions.

Philadelphia Mayor’s Proposal to Cut Business Taxes is Illogical and Imprudent

Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s proposal to cut the city’s business income and receipts tax (BIRT), based off the Philadelphia Tax Reform Commission’s recommendation, is illogical and imprudent. This is more than the city spends each year on homelessness services, public health, the streets department, and countless other programs that directly benefit residents.