Mayor Parker pledged to help save 925 affordable rentals across Philly. Councilmember Gauthier wants a funding commitment

Have a question about Philly’s neighborhoods or the systems that shape them? PlanPhilly reporters want to hear from you! Ask us a question or send us a story idea you think we should cover. Philadelphia City Councilmember Jamie Gauthier will introduce legislation Thursday calling for a public hearing to examine the city’s efforts to preserve 925 affordable rentals in her district. The resolution, which is expected to pass the same day, is a “minor escalation” that is primarily aimed at securing city funding for a potential sale that would keep the units permanently affordable, Gauthier said. It comes roughly three months after Mayor Cherelle Parker said her administration is committed to finding a way to save these homes amid an affordable housing crisis. The formal announcement, released after more than a year of relative silence, did not promise a particular dollar amount. Gauthier insists that needs to change before the portfolio’s owner, Jim Levin, changes his mind and decides to s