Posted here:

Although the city administration has said they don't think the ordinance is valid, Fox upheld the section of the code. She noted that Nutter did not seek Council approval. "He did not do that," she said.

Fox said that because Nutter announced plans to close the libraries, he has to go before Council. "Closed is closed. The mayor used the word closed," Fox said.

Fox put a verbal order in place until Jan 5 when she'll issue a written order.

If I have ever said anything less than completely nice about City Councilpeople (somehow the memory of ever doing so escapes me), I rescind those comments now.

I look forward, with complete confidence, to the majority of Councilpeople telling the Mayor that they cannot, in good conscience, support the closings - because clearly the constituencies they represent have voiced strong opposition to the closings. Surely, there won't be a majority of Councilpeople who will use their "prerogative" to vote against the wishes of their constituencies. Right?

I don't think Council will approve these closings. They already voted 12-5 on a resolution opposing the Library cuts. What was really interesting at this hearing, under cross examination City Finance Director Rob Dubow said that the City would a fund balance of 40 million at the end of the fiscal year. Keeping the libraries open will only cost 4 million. They is no need to make other cuts to keep these running (contradicting what the Mayor has said at every town hall forum).
I don't know if that was a slip on his part, but that changes the ball game as we talk about budget cuts for this year.

DE II:
"If I have ever said anything less than completely nice about City Councilpeople (somehow the memory of ever doing so escapes me), I rescind those comments now."

Don't be so hasty: so far as i know, only 3 actually joined the lawsuit.

"I look forward, with complete confidence, to the majority of Councilpeople telling the Mayor that they cannot, in good conscience, support the closings - because clearly the constituencies they represent have voiced strong opposition to the closings. Surely, there won't be a majority of Councilpeople who will use their "prerogative" to vote against the wishes of their constituencies. Right?"

There better not be. And I don't think there will be when people start calling and calling and writing and writing. I have much of next week off, so I will be sure to drop by Ms. Blackwell's local office. Also, I'll make sure to spread the word.

But for now, I am just going to be happy for a few hours. Looking forward to tomorrow's party outside the Kingsessing Library!