A new improved Philadelphia? At annual luncheon, Nutter looks to future

Call it the "Philadelphia of the future."

Mayor Nutter addressed the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce today at the annual Mayor luncheon where he released a report that showed the city could save $85 million over five years through cost-saving measures and improved revenue collection.

With hopes of improving collection rates, Nutter said the city is moving to establish a Chief Revenue Collections Officer, who would oversee collection efforts and create more efficient practices.

Nutter's speech comes just weeks before his budget address before City Council slated for March 14, the day that marks the start of the budget season. This year Council and the administration must find ways to protect residents as the city moves to a new property-tax system based on market values, the Actual Value Initiative.

Nutter also sought support from the business community in gun violence prevention legislation, financial support for schools and job opportunities for city youth.