06/17/2026
Philadelphia’s budget affects nearly every aspect of daily life, but where exactly does the city’s money go and who decides how it’s spent?
This month on Philly Unpacked, host Jordana Rubenstein breaks down Philly’s budget process. From public schools and libraries to sanitation, housing, and transit, the budget determines how the city functions. Following the money trail can help explain why some neighborhoods see new investments - like grocery stores, streetlights, and parks - while others are still fighting for basic resources.
Joining the conversation are Budget Analyst Nick Hand of The Philadelphia Citizen and Campaign Organizer Kimmy Cook of Alliance for a Just Philly, who unpack where city dollars are going, what priorities are being debated, and how residents can advocate for the investments they want to see.
We also hear from the People's Budget Office and community members about what’s missing from the current budget, what they want city leaders to prioritize, and the ideas Philadelphians have for how city investments could better support their communities.
Watch the full episode on YouTube, and tune in on the first Wednesday every month at 12:30 on WPPM 106.5FM | Xfinity 66/966 | Verizon 29/30
