Rendell calls for change in city

Edward Rendell emphasized the need for change in Philadelphia during his inauguration as mayor of the city on January 6. Throughout his inaugural address, Rendell called for a complete makeover of city government and adamantly stressed the fast pace at which the city is going broke. He began his inaugural speech by saying Philadelphia "could be the greatest city in America," but later pointed out how the city "stands on the brink of total disaster" without change. "We have put off difficult choices for too long," Rendell said. "Change must surely come, but the good news is that if it does, this city can not only survive, it can come alive again with a thriving economy, strong neighborhoods and a dynamic downtown that will serve as a magnet to conventions, tourists and suburbanites alike." The 1965 College graduate became the city's district attorney in 1982, and lost a Democratic gubernatorial campaign in 1986. He unsuccessfully ran for mayor in 1987. Rendell defeated Republican Joseph Egan last fall to become the mayor of Philadelphia. Rendell asked for five challenges to be met in order to bring change to Philadelphia. He asked those involved in city government to give up the "old way of doing things," and City Council members to forget about personal gain and old grudges in order to work for the betterment of the city. "A challenge to the 17 City Council members," Rendell said. "To put aside politics, partisanship and personal gain to forge a working relationship with me second to none in this city's history." Rendell also challenged the municipal unions to join with city government and work together to keep Philadelphia and its businesses "afloat." In addition, he asked the citizens of Philadelphia to accept the sacrifices necessary. "A challenge to the people of Philadelphia, to be willing to accept short-run sacrifices and pain that will allow us to get through the near future," he said. "And lead to tremendous long-run gain for all of us." In closing, Rendell repeated that if the need for change is met, and the people of Philadelphia accept his challenges, Philadelphia could be the best city in America.

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