The Philadelphia City Council's Committee on Housing, Neighborhood Development, and The Homeless convened on May 27, 2025, to discuss pressing issues surrounding housing affordability and proposed legislative measures aimed at alleviating the burden on renters and small landlords.

The meeting began with public comments highlighting the struggles faced by young renters in Philadelphia. One speaker shared their personal experience of navigating the housing crisis, detailing the financial strain of multiple application fees and the challenge of securing a rental property amidst rising costs. They emphasized the unfairness of subsidizing large developers while everyday renters face additional fees and barriers to housing access. This speaker urged support for Council Member Ruth Landau's affordability plan, which aims to cap application fees and security deposits, and allow renters to pay in installments.

Following this, Majel K. Johnson Hudson, a member of Reclaim Philadelphia, expressed support for the proposed bills, framing housing as a fundamental human right. Hudson argued that the current housing crisis disproportionately affects low-income individuals and families, and that the proposed legislation could position Philadelphia as a leader in housing affordability.

The committee then heard from Amanda Gleason Mack, a licensed real estate broker, who raised concerns about the feasibility of the proposed changes. She argued that while application fees are a barrier, the focus should also be on broader issues of affordability and minimum wage, rather than solely on tenant protections.

Kim Avant Babb, a small landlord, voiced opposition to the bills, asserting that they do not adequately consider the challenges faced by landlords. Babb highlighted the complexities of managing rental properties and the financial risks involved, arguing that the proposed measures could further burden small landlords who provide essential housing.

Other landlords echoed these sentiments, expressing frustration over the perception of landlords as adversaries in the housing crisis. They called for a balanced approach that considers the needs of both tenants and landlords, emphasizing the importance of fair policies that support sustainable housing solutions.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued dialogue on how to effectively address the housing crisis in Philadelphia, balancing the needs of renters and the realities faced by small landlords. The committee is expected to further review the proposed legislation and consider the diverse perspectives shared during the public comments.