On January 2, 2024, Kenyatta Johnson was sworn in as Philadelphia’s new City Council President, writes Stephen Williams for The Philadelphia Tribune. 

As Council President, Johnson holds arguably the second most powerful government position in the city after the mayor. 

In his new role, Johnson said he plans to focus on the priorities that city council had under his predecessor, Darrell Clarke.

This includes reducing crime, poverty and gun violence, improving education, public safety, and the city’s quality of life.

“Part of my overall vision is to make sure we are inclusive, but also responsive to the needs, issues and concerns of the people in Philadelphia,” Johnson said. 

To this end, Johnson plans to continue two of Clarke’s signature initiatives, the $400 million Neighborhood Preservation Initiative, and the Turn the Key program, which address housing inequality and gentrification.

As a leader, Johnson said collaborating with and supporting his colleagues is highly important.

“I’ve always been a collaborative and inclusive leader, bringing people together, focusing on a common goal,” he said. “I pride myself on not only being a collaborative leader, but also listening to the issues and concerns and being an advocate for my colleagues who I will be leading.”

Read more about new Council President Kenyatta Johnson’s vision for the city at The Philadelphia Tribune. 

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