Voice: Lauren Vidas
![](https://thephiladelphiacitizen.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/philly-trash-recycling-problem-791x400.jpeg)
Partners not Problems
When trash pickup was again delayed this week, it raised the question: Why doesn’t local government see its citizens as part of the solution? A former city official offers ideas for how the City can do better to meet our expectations
By Lauren Vidas![](https://thephiladelphiacitizen.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/heidi-kaden-6LCen1qDcOw-unsplash-1-791x400.jpg)
Philly’s Next Big Challenge
City leaders became experts at handling decline in the last half of the last century. Now, a former city official wonders, can they rise to the occasion and capitalize on growth?
By Lauren Vidas![](https://thephiladelphiacitizen.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Talulas-Garden-1-791x400.jpeg)
Finding More Ways To Say Yes
We saw an unprecedented push to make living, working and participating in our civic life easier for Philly residents during the pandemic. A former city official urges our leaders to keep that momentum going.
By Lauren Vidas![](https://thephiladelphiacitizen.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Bilal-791x400.jpeg)
Row Office Revolt?
No, we’re not likely to get rid of the corruption-prone Sheriff's Office anytime soon. But a former city official has a solution for ensuring the office does right by residents.
By Lauren Vidas