City Council Kills Uber Tax, Philly Swelters
Hey, Philly. Yesterday packed in some serious civic back-and-forth — plus, it’s officially too hot for real school and we’re getting a new hangout spot just in time for the World Cup. Let’s catch up:
City Hall Drama: No New Uber or Airbnb Taxes (For Now)
City Council gave Mayor Parker’s $7+ billion budget a greenlight yesterday but killed most of her tax hike ideas, including those planned for Uber rides and Airbnb rentals. This was supposed to help close a budget gap and fund some key programs, but council wasn’t having it and passed a plan with lower levies instead. Mayor Parker warns "the fight isn’t over" on these taxes, so expect the arguments to come back around next session. For renters, travelers, and gig workers: your costs stay flat — for now.
Extreme Heat = Virtual School Friday
Welcome to air conditioning season: 52 Philly schools will go all-virtual today (Friday) thanks to a legit heat wave. You know we’re not built for this. Parents: double check your kids' schedules; city-run cooling spots and libraries will be open if things get rough.
Reading Terminal Gears Up For The World Cup
Reading Terminal Market — already one of Philly’s gems — is adding a brand new outdoor plaza. Expect a pop-up bar, extra seating, and shops. It’s timed to capitalize on the World Cup buzz, since Philly's a host city. (And, yes, a reminder: no drones allowed in the zone.)
Miscellaneous Moves
- Video Stores Aren’t Dead? A Passyunk Square couple is opening a new video rental shop — yes, VHS and all. Nostalgia wins again.
- Le Virtù’s Epic Feast: If you need to eat your feelings about the weather, feast your eyes on this eight-hour Italian food marathon in East Passyunk.
- Elsewhere Art Fair Drops: Philly’s getting a new international art fair this fall. Supposedly cooler and more global than the old model.
Sports Desk
- Phillies Sweep (Again): Another week, another sweep for the Phillies. Trea Turner and Brandon Marsh racked up big stats – check out the 10 awards from the Padres series.
- Sixers News: Mike Gansey is officially the new President of Basketball Ops. Hope you like trades.
- Flyers Future: 2026 summer schedule is out (rookie series vs. Rangers), and the team’s eyeing five prospects in this month’s NHL draft (who goes at No. 21?).
Stay hydrated, stick to the shade, and you’re all caught up. See you out there.
