The inauguration will take place at the Met, on North Broad Street, instead of the usual venue, the Academy of Music. Council spokesperson Patricia Gillett says the Academy was already booked and Council President Darrell Clarke thought the Met, in his district, made a statement.
"He wants to talk about job growth, education, all of the themes connecting to poverty," she revealed. "He'll also touch on crime because that's been a big theme."
Similar themes are likely to arise in Mayor Jim Kenney's speech. He's also expected to talk about new initiatives for his second term.
Four new members will be sworn in at the ceremony, including the body's first third-party member, Kendra Brooks. "As an activist," she said, "fighting for these issues, you say, 'These people need to do something about this.' The reality is, now I'm 'these people.'"
Jaime Gauthier, who upset longtime council member Jannie Blackwell to represent West Philadelphia, expressed her excitement for the ceremony. "I'm ready to get started and I'm looking forward to it," she said.
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Council leadership is also chosen there, though it's usually decided in advance. Clarke is a shoo-in to retain the presidency, but majority leader Bobby Henon was fighting to keep his position against a strong challenge from Cherelle Parker. Curtis Jones is the likely majority whip.
At 7 p.m. Monday, the mayor will throw what he's billing as a "Thank You" concert at the Met. It will be free and open to the public, though tickets are required.
Patty Jackson and Jerry Blavatt will host Philadelphia performers DJ Diamond Kuts, WanMor and the Urban Guerilla Orchestra.
Tickets are available at TheMetPhilly.com and Ticketmaster.com. Tickets do not guarantee admission. They'll be honored on a first come, first served basis.
Doors open at 6 p.m.