First candidate speaks up to replace Tasco

THE RACE to succeed retiring longtime City Councilwoman Marian Tasco is officially under way with the candidacy of S. Archye Leacock.

The Democratic committeeman and founder of the Institute for the Development of African American Youth made his announcement yesterday during an afternoon news conference at the York House apartment building on Old York Road near Somerville Avenue.

If elected to represent the 9th District in Northwest Philly, Leacock said he would focus on improving schools, the local economy and investing in the community by advocating for more funding to support rec centers, parks and public spaces.

"Now is the time for new leadership for the 9th Councilmanic District of Philadelphia. Join us in focusing on four years forward, and not 30 years past," said Leacock, who is blind and has lived in the district for 28 years.

Tasco has said that she wants state Rep. Cherelle Parker to be her successor, and that should be enough to win Parker support from the districts ward leaders.

Parker, a Democrat, has not formally entered the race yet. A Daily News phone message left at her office was not returned.

The race for Council's 17 seats could draw as many as 50 candidates from both parties in the May primary election.

Education activist Helen Gym is expected to announce her candidacy for one of the at-large seats on Monday.

" @MensahDean