What's being decided and why it matters.
Local Civics
Local CivicsMay 13
What To Know Before You Head to the Polls on May 19
On this month’s ballot are a competitive congressional race and a stacked committee race you may not have known was happening.
Local CivicsMay 6
Council Member on School Closures: ‘Probably the Worst Decision I’ve Seen as an Elected Official’
Councilmember Thomas said the logic behind the closures in the facilities master plan doesn’t match the accomplishments of the schools se...
Local CivicsApril 27
Why This 75-Year-Old Document Is Foundational to Philadelphia
The document detailing how Philly’s government operates has had more than 80 amendments since 2000.
Latest articles
Local CivicsApril 15
Your 2026 May Primary Checklist
Make sure you’re set to participate in this May’s election by following this list.
Local CivicsApril 2
These Are the Ballot Questions Appearing in Philly’s 2026 Primary Election
Voters will decide on changes to the city’s charter.
Local CivicsMarch 18
How Should Philly and Pennsylvania Spend Your Money?
Budget season is officially in full swing at the municipal and state levels. Here’s how you can have a say in where your tax dollars go.
Local CivicsMarch 4
What’s the Big School Closures Plan All About?
The purpose of the plan is to close decrepit buildings and modernize other facilities, but it involves student and staff displacement.
Local CivicsJanuary 21
Philly Police Wants YOU To Give Input On Its Strategic Plan
The purpose of the plan is to create a model for how to be a better police department at all levels.
Local CivicsJanuary 14
Critics Are Wrong, Says Councilmember Young, ‘Councilmanic Prerogative’ is Actually Positive
Councilmember Young believes fellow councilmembers are giving decision-making power to those considered experts in their district.
Local CivicsDecember 10, 2025
Pennsylvania Is One Step Closer to Banning Cell Phones in School
A bipartisan bill to restrict phone usage across Pennsylvania is now up for consideration for the full Senate. But should they pass it?
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