The resolution cites concerns about courtroom security, staffing shortages, real estate transactions and the handling of proceeds from sheriff's sales. It also points to findings from the Administrative Governing Board of the First Judicial District, which oversees Philadelphia court operations. According to the resolution, the board has said the Sheriff's Office has failed to provide a safe environment in court facilities, contributing to delays and postponements of criminal proceedings at critical points in trials.

"The people of Philadelphia deserve to know that taxpayer dollars are properly accounted for, that real estate transactions are handled in a timely and transparent manner, and that our courtrooms are safe," Johnson said in a statement. "When questions arise about missing or delayed payments, unfulfilled agreements, staffing shortages, and the overall operations of a public office, City Council has a responsibility to examine what is happening and determine what needs to change."

Johnson said the hearings would seek to identify opportunities to improve transparency, accountability, efficiency and public safety while restoring public confidence in the office. The resolution would allow Council members to hear directly from Bilal and other stakeholders, examine existing practices and develop recommendations.

The push for oversight follows reporting by The Philadelphia Inquirer that Bilal's office misplaced $20 million in taxpayer funds and reneged on an agreement to address delays in disbursing proceeds from sheriff's sales. Last week, Bilal held a press event to respond to the concerns, spending much of her time disputing the Inquirer's coverage of court proceedings involving her office. She argued that her office never reneged on any agreement but instead proposed changes to it, and claimed the newspaper ignored those proposed changes because of an ongoing feud over advertising sales. The Inquirer said it stood by its reporting.

Since taking office in 2020, Bilal has faced criticism over several other controversies, including the use of fake AI-generated headlines promoting positive "news" stories on the office's website and reports of missing firearms. More recently, a judge ordered a review of the office's real estate procedures after property buyers complained of delays lasting as long as a year.

In a statement to reporters, the Sheriff's Office said it welcomed the prospect of hearings. "The Philadelphia Sheriff's Office welcomes a constructive, fact-based discussion with City Council about our operations, staffing needs, and public safety responsibilities," the statement read. "We remain committed to transparency and accountability and look forward to presenting our progress, the challenges we face, and the resources needed to fulfill our duties. Protecting our courts, staff, and the public remains our priority."

Johnson framed the resolution as part of a broader duty to safeguard public institutions. "We cannot afford to let questions about the integrity of our public institutions go unanswered," he said. "This is about more than a single issue or department. It is about ensuring that government works as it is supposed to."

The resolution now awaits action by the full Council. If approved, the Committee of the Whole would schedule hearings, giving residents a rare public window into an office that handles court security, property sales and millions of dollars in transactions on behalf of the city.