Democratic Mayoral Nominee Kenney Introduces Idea Of Expanding Powers Of PPA
By Kristen Johanson
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The November election is less than five months away, but Democratic Mayoral candidate Jim Kenney is already introducing the idea of giving the Philadelphia Parking Authority more responsibility, which isn't entirely new.
Jim Kenney says he wants to expand the PPA, allowing parking enforcement officers to issue tickets on litter, construction licenses and sidewalk violations.
"We have people out there working for the public, and have the ability to interact with these folks who can generate more revenue for schools and for city services, then we should look at the possibly of utilizing them," said Kenney.
Within the past 30 years, the PPA has acquired more responsibilities, like the regulation of limos and taxis. Kenney says giving the PPA more power would streamline functions and alleviate some of the burdens for other departments.
"We have had preliminary discussions, we certainly would probably need a memorandum of understanding or some type of authority for them to do it. They won't be writing tickets, they won't be inspecting buildings, they'll be simply asking for licenses and proper paperwork for folks who are doing work on our city streets and in our neighborhoods," said Kenney.
Kelly, who has been a city resident for eight years, disagrees.
"I think it's ridiculous. I think we have much bigger problems to focus on, and for me, that's not an issue," said Kelly.
Fishtown resident Daniel isn't opposed to the idea.
"If they would spend more of their time giving people tickets for littering, and less for leaving their car like two minutes too long at the meter, then I'm into it," said Daniel.