For the second and final time, Philadelphia City Council has approved a bill authorizing the city to borrow $800 million for Mayor Cherelle Parker’s signature housing plan, capping a protracted legislative process that saw lawmakers publicly spar with her administration. Council unanimously passed an amended version of the measure — the centerpiece of the Housing Opportunities Made Easy (H.O.M.E.) initiative — during the body’s first meeting of the new session. The bill was the last legislative hurdle before borrowing could start for the $2 billion plan. The multifaceted initiative is rooted in creating and preserving 30,000 housing units. Council President Kenyatta Johnson called it a “win-win” for city residents. “At the end of the day, it’s about making sure individuals become first-time homebuyers, making sure individuals have a chance to have their home prepared and making sure we address the issue of homelessness,” Johnson said.
Source: PlanPhilly; 1/23/2026