Nov 12, 2008 10:00 pm US/Eastern
Philadelphia Releases List Of Tax Delinquents
Trying to fill a $1 billion budget gap over the next five years, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter said Wednesday the city will start going after businesses who owe back taxes.
"We're coming to get what's due us, in no uncertain terms," the mayor said at an afternoon press conference. "If you enjoy all that this great city has to offer, in terms of our services, but you are not paying your taxes in return, we will come after you."
The city released a list of corporations or individuals owing at least $50,000 in back businesses taxes. Officials say most of the money owed is businesses privilege taxes. Some is wage taxes that were withheld from employees' paychecks but never turned over to the city.
"As of today, that kind of practice stops," the mayor said.
The worst offender on the list was Gregory A. Nelson who owes the city more than $2.4 million. His Nelson Medical Group once operated a medical clinic at 52nd St. and Haverford Ave. in West Philadelphia.
Second on the list: a now-defunct Center City law firm that included partners Edward J. Davis, Charles A. Fitzpatrick, III and John A. Fitzpatrick. The firm owes the city $1.7 million.
Further down the list are more high-profile businessmen.
Neil Stein, the one-time owner of Center City restaurants Striped Bass and Rouge, owes $1.2 million. Milton Street, brother of former Philadelphia Mayor John Street owes the city $383,037.
The Philadelphia Sheriff's Department will seize business and personal property of individuals responsible for the tax bills. The mayor says the list is not complete.
"This list will be updated on a quarterly basis," he said. "So if you owe the city of Philadelphia money but don't see your name on the list right now, your day will be coming very soon."
VIEW: Complete List of Tax Delinquents
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