All this week, we are running the two mayoral candidates' responses to questions on six issues of vital importance to Philadelphia: education, public safety, race and diversity, neighborhoods, government reform, and jobs. The questions were developed by participants in the Citizen Voices project. Today's issue is neighborhoods, which spurred this question from the Citizen Voices participants:

"Many citizens from Mayfair to Eastwick feel their ideas and energy aren't respected, that their interests rank well behind the interests of people who are well-connected politically. If elected, how will you restore people's faith in the value of getting involved, and how will you invite more citizens into real decision-making?"

Below are John Street's and Sam Katz's responses.

John Street: As President of City Council, I took Council meetings to the districts. As convener of the Education Summit, I took town meetings to schools, libraries, churches and community centers throughout the city - to engage more than 3,000 Philadelphians in a discussion of public education. During my campaign, I held issues discussions on a range of topics, from arts and culture, education and community development to economic development and social services, seeking the guidance of citizens from across the city.

As mayor, I will establish transition teams that involve representatives from all communities and groups throughout the city. My concern for broad-based involvement will be reflected in my administration, and I will continue to go to the neighborhoods to seek feedback and guidance.

Specifically, I will:

Establish service districts so that the lines dividing the police, fire, school, sanitation and other service districts are all identical.

Work with communities and community groups to develop plans for implementing my Saving Neighborhoods/Blight Elimination Program.

Direct the Planning Commission to provide technical assistance to communities to develop strategic plans for neighborhood development.

Direct my administration to analyze distribution of resources and ensure that services and support are equitably distributed.

Sam Katz: Neighborhood revitalization depends on cost-efficient and high-quality public services, especially those involving crime and education. We must also create more jobs and stimulate local economic development. Success in these areas will make residents feel more invested in their communities. That success depends on the involvement and help of the residents themselves. No one can better understand the character of a community and its particular needs.

City government must work together with organizations such as Philadelphia Interfaith Action and the Eastern Philadelphia Organizing Project, as well as individual civic and neighborhood associations. We can't afford to lose the energy and ideas these groups bring to the table. Government can also hold zoning hearings at accessible times and places and appoint residents to policy-making bodies.

As mayor, I will expand the focus of our civic, corporate and nonprofit groups to include all of our neighborhoods. The same energy, initiative, creativity and resources that are bringing the Regional Performing Arts Center and the Constitution Center to life must be directed toward development projects in our neighborhoods.

Government must do its part by removing abandoned cars, disposing of vacant property and cleaning the streets. Well-kept blocks help properties retain their value and go a long way to make residents feel proud about their surroundings.

I pledge to run this city by involving everyone, everywhere - by building a spirit of ownership in the future of a city we all share.