Heard in the Hall

Councilwoman Carol Ann Campbell has been a legislative whirlwind when it comes to children, the elderly and the handicapped. Even grizzled City Hall veterans have been impressed; she’s banned dogs from tot lots, pursued mandatory programs for autistic children, and challenged the way SEPTA and the public school system accommodates the disabled. As we speak on Monday, she's already had three hours worth of hearings on disabled issues and will go another few this afternoon.

In November, voters will have a chance to approve or reject two Campbell-sponsored initiatives — one to create an Office of the Handicapped and Disabled Advocate; the other to create an Office of Public School Family and Child Advocate.

Campbell introduced these bills before the May primary, which she lost. In the event the ballot initiatives are successful, some now ask: Would Campbell accept one of the $100,000-a-year positions if offered to her as a Philly-style golden parachute?

“I would doubt it,” said Campbell, who said she plans to devote the time after her term ends Jan. 7 to establishing a job training center named after her father, the late Edgar C. Campbell Sr., one of the city’s pioneering black politicians.

Observers don’t expect presumed mayoral winner Michael Nutter would appoint her for a number of reasons. “I think Michael’s going to be very careful about those things,” said Councilman Frank DiCicco. “And that’s the sad part — because she’s very qualified for the job.”

But John Street could make the appointment before his term is over, and apparently enjoys a good working relationship with Campbell. We're awaiting word from the Mayor.