Mayoral Race 1999: W. Phila. residents divided

In a neighborhood that has traditionally been a Democratic stronghold, it may come as a surprise that many West Philadelphians are divided between longtime Democratic City Council President John Street and a relative newcomer to the political scene, Republican Sam Katz. Like the rest of the city, issues like crime, education and employment are what most West Philadelphians are thinking about. And they are busy trying to balance Street's know-how and experience with Katz's desire to be innovative with city management. City Council member Jannie Blackwell, a Democrat who represents West Philadelphia, is a strong Street supporter and said her former colleague would provide the necessary leadership for the city's troubled neighborhoods. "If you take care of the neighborhood, you are going to make an impact on the success and survival of our city," Blackwell said. "If I had to pick one issue, it is the focus on neighborhood.? John Street is addressing that issue by making it the theme of his campaign." On the street corner outside Brown's Thriftway at 43rd and Walnut streets yesterday, voters gave their own take on the issues and their feelings on how the two candidates stack up. "I just think that [Katz] will have a fresh view of everything and fresh insight, rather than someone who's been there for so long and could be solid in his ways or too staid," said Ray Saalbach, 80. And 52-year-old attorney George Walker said Street is "a hands-on politician [who] knows the nuts and bolts and is a good manager." It was also clear, however, that race would be a major factor for West Philadelphians in this election. "As far I'm concerned it's a black-and-white concern," said University City resident Henry Bradshaw, 57, an African-American who plans to vote for Street. A pressing concern was crime and the drug dealing that some residents say occurs on almost every street corner in their neighborhoods. "Every corner you go to there's a bunch of kids selling drugs," Angela Paterson, 33, said. "They're babies, nine years old, and they getting high and selling drugs. And [the candidates] are talking about more cops on the street. Where are the cops?"