In a body that goes through lots of changes, Chief Clerk Michael Decker was one of Philadelphia City Council’s stalwarts.
As you’ve probably noticed by now, today’s edition of the Philadelphia Hall Monitor newsletter doesn’t have a story on this week’s Philadelphia City Council meeting.
That’s because there wasn’t one. And the reason for that is because one of the integral parts of Philadelphia City Council is no longer with us. On Tuesday, Michael Decker, Council’s longtime Chief Clerk, died. He was 58.
If you’ve ever heard of watched a Philadelphia City Council meeting, you heard Decker read the titles of the bills and resolutions that came from Council members and committees. He’s also the person whose ability to keep a straight face during Council’s public comment section was admirable. I know that I can’t do it half the time.
Decker began his career with Philadelphia City Council in the Council Clerk’s office in 1988. In 2007, he was appointed Deputy Chief Clerk and became the Chief Clerk in 2009, replacing former Chief Clerk Pat Rafferty.
He served under three Council Presidents: the late Anna Verna, Council’s first female president, Darrell Clarke, and current Council President Kenyatta Johnson.
As someone who worked for Council for 36 years, most folks described Decker as someone who was helpful and a consummate public servant. A lot of us in the press corps would have liked to interview him, but he didn’t do interviews.
He was pretty helpful to reporters or anyone else who wanted to know more about Council, however. At times, he even helped Council members do things the right way.
Grief counseling has been made available to Council members, Council President Kenyatta Johnson said in a statement.
“Michael’s dedicated service spanning 36 years in City Council has left an indelible mark on the city, and his sudden departure this week continues to leave everyone in shock and mourning,” Johnson said in a statement.“During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with Michael’s family, friends, and colleagues. We share in the sorrow of his loss and will forever cherish the memories of his unwavering dedication to the betterment of Philadelphia. Please join us in keeping Michael’s loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.”
There’s been no information on services for Decker as I write this, and Council is scheduled to reconvene on Feb. 29. A new Chief Clerk will be selected by then.
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