Philly Buying Power

When PECO rate caps expire at the end of the year, Philadelphia businesses will be able to purchase electricity generation from a supplier of their choice. In other cities with expiring rate caps, generation suppliers have competed to serve larger businesses, institutions, and residents, but often have made fewer competitive offers to small and medium businesses and non-profits. To help those businesses adjust to the rate cap expiration and to ensure they receive the best energy prices possible, the City released a Request for Information in July … MORE » | VISIT WEBSITE »

MAYOR NUTTER TO LAUNCH PHILLY BUYING POWER

WHO: Mayor Michael A. Nutter
African American Chamber of Commerce
Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Asian American Chamber of Commerce
Greater Northeast Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce
WHAT: Mayor Nutter will launch Philly Buying Power, an innovative pooled energy purchasing program designed to save Philadelphia small and medium-sized businesses money on their energy bills.
WHERE: Sazon Restaurant and Café, 941 Spring Garden Street
WHEN: Wednesday, October 27, 2010 2:00 pm TODAY

STATEMENT FROM MAYOR NUTTER REGARDING FEATHER HOUSTOUN’S DEPARTURE FROM THE WILLIAM PENN FOUNDATION

Philadelphia, October 26, 2010- Today, Mayor Nutter issued the following statement:

Feather Houstoun is just an outstanding person, a great friend, and the consummate public servant. Her work at the William Penn Foundation has impacted the City of Philadelphia and my Administration in countless positive ways, one example being her steadfast support of Greenworks Philadelphia and our drive to become America’s number one green city. Feather truly cares about this city, region, and commonwealth and, whether through her remaining time at the Foundation or through whatever comes next, I am confident that she will continue to have an incredibly positive impact on all of our lives.

MAYOR NUTTER TO LAUNCH PHILLY BUYING POWER

WHO: Mayor Michael A. Nutter
African American Chamber of Commerce
Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Asian American Chamber of Commerce
Greater Northeast Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce
WHAT: Mayor Nutter will launch Philly Buying Power, an innovative pooled energy purchasing program designed to save Philadelphia small and medium-sized businesses money on their energy bills.
WHERE: Sazon Restaurant and Café, 941 Spring Garden Street
WHEN: Wednesday, October 27, 2010 2:00 pm

PHILADELPHIA2035 FALL COMMUNITY MEETINGS ANNOUNCED FOR CITYWIDE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

Philadelphia, PA, October 22- The Philadelphia City Planning Commission (PCPC) is continuing its yearlong effort to create the City’s first citywide comprehensive plan since 1960. The purpose of this plan is to ensure that Philadelphia’s future development will occur in a healthy, strategic, and transparent manner. PHILADELPHIA2035 is part of the City’s larger integrated planning and zoning effort, which includes updating the Zoning Code. The development of this comprehensive plan will coincide with the completion of the Zoning Code rewrite and its adoption.

Four public meetings are being held this fall to present the larger themes and related projects recommended in the draft plan, as well as population and employment forecasts for Philadelphia in 2035. During the meeting, participants will work in small groups with their neighbors to help prioritize plan implementation.

The four meetings will be held at the following locations:

Monday, October 25th
5:30 – 7:00 pm
Moore College of Art and Design
20th Street & Ben Franklin Parkway

Tuesday, October 26th
6:30 – 8:00 pm
Mummers Museum
1100 S. 2nd Street

Monday, November 8th
6:30 – 8:00 pm
Richmond Hall
2619 E. Indiana Avenue

Wednesday, November 10th
6:30 – 8:00 pm
Commodore Barry Club
6815 Emlen Street

For more information please visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/Phila2035 or email: Phila2035@phila.gov

MAYOR NUTTER AND GOVERNOR RENDELL WELCOME HOME ENERGY EFFICIENCY FIRM TO PHILADELPHIA NAVY YARD

The Mark Group will establish U.S. headquarters at the Philadelphia Navy Yard

Philadelphia, Oct. 22, 2010 – Mayor Michael A. Nutter and Governor Edward G. Rendell announced that the Mark Group, a home energy efficiency firm based in the United Kingdom, will establish its U.S. Headquarters at the Philadelphia Navy Yard. The Mark Group will join a growing number of clean energy technology and energy-related businesses located at the Navy Yard. The Mark Group will bring 250 new jobs to the Navy Yard. The attraction of the Mark Group to Philadelphia was made possible through a partnership involving the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development, the City of Philadelphia, Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC) and Select Greater Philadelphia.

“The Navy Yard is becoming a nationally recognized hub for clean technology companies. The Mark Group is one of many innovative energy efficiency and alternative energy businesses establishing their presence in Philadelphia. These companies are bringing new jobs, new expertise and new ideas to our city,” said Mayor Nutter. “Thanks to the work of the Philadelphia Commerce Department and our many city and regional partners, Philadelphia is now seeing the fruits of many months of labor as new businesses locate in our city providing new job opportunities for Philadelphians.”

Recently, the U.S. Department of Energy in August awarded a $130 million grant to a consortium of university, public and private sector partners to develop new energy efficiency technologies at the Navy Yard’s Clean Energy Campus.

Gov. Rendell said that helping consumers reduce their energy use is one of the best things we can do to help people and employers save money while improving our environment. “After all, the cheapest and cleanest energy is that which we don’t use. We’ve made great strides in the past eight years to help energy users do that, but the work being done here at the energy innovation hub and by Mark Group will take those efforts to an entirely new level,” said Gov. Rendell. “Mark Group’s decision to locate its U.S. headquarters here and become one of the first companies tied to the Department of Energy’s energy innovation hub is an excellent partnership. Each complements the other and each offers a host of great opportunities for the other.”

The Mark Group’s establishment of their U.S. headquarters in Philadelphia was made possible through grant funding provided by PIDC and the Governor’s Action Team. According to company officials, Philadelphia’s location as an international and northeastern transportation hub and the abundance of higher education institutions were significant factors in the Mark Group’s decision to locate in this region.

“Mark Group is excited to launch our U.S. business from Philadelphia. We are grateful to Mayor Nutter and his economic development team for welcoming us to the City and for making the decision to locate here so easy. We recognize that Philadelphia’s success is our success, and therefore we are looking forward to being a Philadelphia-based business – hiring here, buying here, and growing here,” stated Jeff Bartos, U.S. CEO of the Mark Group.

“This is a great win for the City and the entire Greater Philadelphia region,” said Tom Morr, president & CEO of Select Greater Philadelphia. “Mark Group is a perfect addition to the Navy Yard’s Clean Energy Campus and its recently announced $130M GPIC Energy Innovation Hub.”

Mark Group is an international company, with more than 1,400 employees dedicated to providing a ‘whole house’ solution to energy efficiency. The firm began insulating homes back in 1974 and recognized that this is the first step in helping save energy, money and carbon emissions. Today, from its 17 locations, Mark Group helps make more than 6,000 homes more energy efficient every week. The firm’s portfolio has expanded in recent years to include an increasingly popular and proven range of energy saving products. Services are tailored for individual homeowners as well as builders, architects, local authorities and government bodies. The company’s international headquarters are located in the UK with additional offices in Australia.

MAYOR NUTTER, GOVERNOR RENDELL TO WELCOME NEW ENERGY EFFICIENCY COMPANY TO PHILADELPHIA NAVY YARD

WHO: Mayor Michael A. Nutter
Governor Edward G. Rendell
Tom Morr, President and CEO of Select Greater Philadelphia
WHAT: Mayor Nutter and Governor Rendell will welcome a new home energy efficiency firm to the Philadelphia Naval Yard.
WHERE: 4613 S. Broad Street, Naval Yard
WHEN: Friday, October 22, 2010 10:30 am

2011 LOW-INCOME SENIOR CITIZEN REAL ESTATE TAX FREEZE DEADLINE EXTENSION

Philadelphia, October 20, 2010 – The Philadelphia Revenue Department has extended the application deadline for low-income senior citizens applying for a real estate tax rate freeze to November 5, 2010. This program protects low-income senior citizens from increases in property assessments and increases in real estate tax rates. If approved, the applicant’s 2011 Real Estate Tax bill will be adjusted to the 2010 amount, and the applicants will be exempt from paying the 9.9% increase to Philadelphia’s real estate taxes beginning in 2011.

“Increased real estate taxes can be especially difficult for those Philadelphians living on a fixed income. By extending its deadline, the Revenue Department is offering an opportunity to those who truly need our help,” said Mayor Michael A. Nutter. “I want to encourage all senior citizens who think they may be eligible to apply before the deadline on November 5th.”

Eligibility requirement for the program include:
Age Requirement
• Your or your spouse is 65 years or older OR
• You are a widow/widower 50 years old or older AND your spouse was at least 65 years old at the time of his or her death.
Income Requirement
• You are single/widowed and your 2009 income was less than $23,5000 OR
• You are married and your 2009 combined income was less than $31,500.
Residence Requirement
• You must own and occupy the property as your primary residence AND
• Your Real Estate Tax bill for that property will be increasing.

Once approved, applicants do not need to reapply to the program each year. All approved applicants are enrolled each successive year unless they no longer meet the eligibility requirements. Applications can be requested by calling 215-686-6442 and are available online at www.phila.gov/revenue/Real_Estate_Tax.html.

MAYOR NUTTER PRESENTS SMART CITY. SMART CHOICE. STUDY WHICH SHOWS PHILADELPHIA IS BUSINESS FRIENDLY AND AFFORDABLE

Mayor Nutter celebrates expansion of Neiman Group to Center City

Philadelphia, October 18, 2010 – Today, Mayor Michael A. Nutter presented a cost comparison study among peer cities in the northeast United States as part of the City’s Smart City. Smart Choice. business attraction campaign. The cost comparison study highlights Philadelphia’s relatively low real estate and labor costs that result in direct savings for businesses that wish to relocate or establish operations in the City, when compared to New York, Boston and Washington, D.C. Philadelphia’s affordable office space and labor costs, convenient geographic location, abundant cultural amenities and convenient public transportation infrastructure enhances the City’s appeal for new businesses that wish to locate here and contribute to the growth of the creative economy sector.

Philadelphia’s multifaceted appeal is continuing to attract businesses like Neiman Group, an advertising agency founded in Harrisburg that opened its first Philadelphia office in 2007 and has since outgrown their initial location and relocated to 1619 Walnut Street. Neiman Group received low-interest financing through the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC) and well as Job Creation Tax Credits from the City’s Department of Revenue. Neiman Group’s commitment to the City was to create 10 new positions as part of the relocation and so far the company has created 17 with more to come.

“The creative economy is a vital component of Philadelphia’s economic growth and Neiman Group has shown that even during difficult economic times businesses can still thrive and expand in our city,” said Mayor Nutter. “The Smart City. Smart Choice. campaign will highlight our city’s business-friendly appeal and I hope more businesses will join Neiman Group in their operations here in Philadelphia.”

“Philadelphia has been rocket fuel for our growth,” said Neiman Group President and CEO Tim Reeves. “Tremendous talent. A vibrant creative culture. A dynamic digital community, which is key for us. World-class office space at affordable terms, enabling lower overhead that helps us to compete successfully for national clients. And a true partner in the PIDC. They have radiated enthusiasm for helping our business to grow. Our only regret is that the resulting growth and clients have us working too hard to fully enjoy the tremendous restaurants, sports and cultural amenities that also are part of Philadelphia’s magic.”

The Smart City. Smart Choice. business attraction campaign focuses on the advantages and affordability of locating businesses in Philadelphia. When comparing the combined labor and real estate costs of a 100-person professional service firm occupying 25,000 square feet of office space, a business located in Philadelphia as opposed to peer cities in the Northeast corridor would realize more than $1 million in single year savings. Philadelphia offers the lowest total direct labor costs among peer cities and Class A office rent is substantially lower. When compared to New York City, office space rent is less than half in Philadelphia.

As a companion to the Smart City. Smart Choice. business attraction campaign, Mayor Nutter also introduced collateral highlighting the strength of Philadelphia’s Creative Economy. According to a recent study by the City’s Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Philadelphia has more than 18,000 persons employed in the creative industries and Greater Philadelphia education institutions award 11,700 degrees related to creative economy occupations each year. Philadelphia has the fifth fastest growing creative sector in the United States and boasts a 70 percent stronger creative sector than the national baseline.

About Neiman Group:
Neiman Group creates powerful brand experiences that move people in distinctive ways and unexpected places. With offices in Philadelphia and Harrisburg, Neiman Group builds and revitalizes brands through digital, PR and advertising services with national and regional partners that include Capital BlueCross, Dietz & Watson, Hershey Trust, PA Dept. of Health Anti-Tobacco Program, PA Wine and Spirits Stores, Sunoco, Trex Company, Troegs Brewing Company, Valley Forge Military Academy and College, and Villanova University.

For additional information on Smart City. Smart Choice. campaign, details are available at www.phila.gov/smartchoice

PHILLYGOES2COLLEGE HOSTS COLLEGE AWARENESS WEEK

Philadelphia, October 18, 2010 – The City of Philadelphia’s PhillyGoes2College Office is hosting a series of citywide events during College Awareness Week, which runs from October 17th- October 21st. The weeklong series of workshops, activities and informational sessions is available to adults, parents, and middle and high school students who want to learn more about college education opportunities. Events include the NACAC 2010 College Fair, information sessions on preparing for and financing college, a college application workshop, and an information session on educational opportunities available to City employees, including the Mayor’s Returning to Learning 25% Tuition Discount Program.

“Sharing information with the public about college education opportunities is an important step toward doubling the number of college graduates in Philadelphia by the year 2018,” said Mayor Michael A. Nutter. “We want to provide the resources and tools to help people of all ages and backgrounds identify, work toward and reach their college education goals.”

The 2nd annual College Awareness Week is sponsored by the PhillyGoes2College Office, which opened in February, 2010 as a “one-stop shop” for information and assistance for Philadelphians interested in attending and completing college. Over the last two years, the number of Philadelphians who hold a college undergraduate degree increased from 18% to 21%. The City has implemented a wide variety of initiatives to increase college participation from Philadelphia residents, including partnering with community organizations and training City employees to help college applicants complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This contributed to a 12% increase in financial aid applications and an additional $194 million in financial aid for Philadelphia students.

A lineup of the 2010 College Awareness Week events is as follows:

NACAC National College Fair
Sunday, Oct. 17th, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1100 Arch Street.
Representatives from over 450 colleges and universities will be present.

College Planning for Students with Learning Differences
Monday, Oct. 18th, 6 p.m.—8 p.m.; Free Library of Philadelphia,1901 Vine St, Room 108
This workshop is for parents of students with learning differences.

Everything Adults Need to Know About Going to College
Monday, Oct. 18th, 6 p.m.—8 p.m.; Free Library of Philadelphia, 1901 Vine St, Skyline Room, 4th Floor
Come learn about how to pay for college and fit classes into your busy life.

College Prep Night
Tuesday Oct. 19th, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m., Community College of Philadelphia, Winnet Student Life Building, 2nd Floor, Room S219
This event is for middle and high school students and their parents. There will be a workshop on financing a college education. In addition, current college students will share their experiences financing college and life on campus. An academic program fair featuring opportunities for students to get involved will also be open to students and parents.

College Application Workshop
Wednesday Oct. 20th, 3 PM – 6 PM, Drexel University (registration required)
Get hands on help with your college application! Open to high school seniors, registration is required. To register, visit http://www.phillygoes2college.org/college-application-workshop or call the PhillyGoes2College office at 215-686-0315.

Everything Adults Need To Know About Going To College (for City of Philadelphia employees only)
Thursday, October 21st, 5:30 PM -7 PM Municipal Services Building, 1401 JFK Blvd., 16th floor, Rooms X and Y

This program will focus on how to juggle your busy schedule with taking classes. Also, an update on the Mayor’s Returning to Learning Partnership will be provided highlighting those colleges who have joined with us to offer a 25% discount for you, your spouse and dependents.

About PhillyGoes2College

The PhillyGoes2College Office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Walk-in hours are Monday from noon to 2:00 pm, Tuesday and Wednesday from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm and Thursday from 10:00 am to noon. Visitors are welcome to stop by the office which is located in Room 115 (at the Northeast entrance of City Hall) or call 215-686-0315. To learn more about PhillyGoes2College log onto www.PhillyGoes2College.com.