COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, October 30, 2008 10:05 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM GREENLEE COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Reverend John Roberts, Pastor of the Garden of Prayer Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Rizzo. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Let us bow our heads. Our Father, again, we thank you for allowing us to see this great day. Not only did you wake us up this morning, but you helped us to get up, and you gave us a portion of strength where we could bathe ourselves without any assistance own clothes on. And you gave us traveling mercy and brought us here at this place at this time, without any hurt, harm or danger. For this, we're grateful and we say thank you. Now we invoke your divine presence this morning that you would help us and give us wisdom in which way we are to go. Bless these leaders of this great city. Give us knowledge and understanding, for your word says that we are to pray for those in authority. So now we pray for these great leaders that will make the decision for this great city. Bless us today and then make us a blessing to the day, that everything be done decently and in order. Watch over our children that are at school. Keep them safe from danger, seen and unseen. Bless our homes and our properties that we own. Keep us safe from robbers and thieves. Now, everything that is done today, let it be to the glory and to your honor, for you said in your word that when the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people mourn. Bless us, help us and keep us. We ask this in thy name and for our sake we pray, and as always, Lord, I thank you for listening. And all God's people said amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks Reverend Roberts for his invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 23, 2008, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 23rd stand (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 23, 2008 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leave of absence today.
Madam President, on behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Council this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly, who will present a resolution honoring Brintha Vasagar, Miss Philadelphia 2008. Will Ms. Vasagar and those the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilman Kelly is being joined by Councilman Greenlee and Councilwoman Brown. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, I'd like to be excused from the rest of the session at this time. I'm out of the office on city business, out of the Chamber, that is, and I'd like to be recorded as voting aye on all bills and resolutions.
Thank you. Your request is being satisfied. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you, Madam President. Before I begin, I just want to say that it's an honor to have Brintha Vasagar here today, not only representing Miss Philadelphia, but I think they Champions underneath it. I really do. (Applause.)
I also think it's very appropriate because to have you here this morning, it's only a few days before the election, and I think who knows, it may be the next time you're in this Council, you may be a candidate for Vice-President. You never can tell.
Or President. But it is an honor this morning to present this resolution recognizing, honoring and celebrating Brintha Vasagar, Miss Philadelphia 2008, for her talents and well-rounded persona that earned her the title Miss Philadelphia 2008, and wishing her well in the Miss Pennsylvania 2008 Pageant.
And whereas, Ms. Vasagar competed against 15 of the Philadelphia area's brightest, young women, and excelled in the competition; and Whereas, Ms. Vasagar's South Asian folk dancing talent, interviewing skills and physical beauty exemplifies what it means to hold the title Miss Philadelphia; and Whereas, Ms. Vasagar earned her Bachelor of Science degree in biology and psychology at Georgetown University, where she graduated in the top 25 percent of her class and was inducted into numerous honor societies, which demonstrates her intellectual acumen; and
Whereas, Ms. Vasagar recently helped raise over $500,000 for the tsunami relief, which exhibits her strong social commitment; and Whereas, Ms. Vasagar was invited to the Presidential Inauguration and to speak before members of the United States Congress and the United Nations regarding her relief efforts; and Whereas, Ms. Vasagar currently is a third-year medical student at Ross University School of Medicine in Miami; and
Whereas, Ms. Vasagar will superbly represent the City of Philadelphia in the Miss Pennsylvania 2008 Pageant. Now therefore be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it recognizes, honors and celebrates Ms. Brintha Vasagar, Miss Philadelphia 2008, for her talents and well-rounded persona that earned her the title Miss Philadelphia 2008, and wishing her well in the Miss Pennsylvania 2008 Pageant. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Ms. Brintha Vasagar, further evidencing the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative body. This has been co-sponsored by myself and Councilman Green and it's also of City Council, Anna Verna, and all Councilmembers. (Applause.)
Thank you, Councilman Kelly, and thank you to members of City Council for having me here today. Very early on in my reign, I met a four-year-old, who came up and said, You sure smile a lot. And I said, Yeah, that's part of my job, and it's a good thing I like it. She thought about that for a minute and then said, Isn't it nice that you can make people feel better just by smiling at them? And that kind of became the theme of my reign. To date, in the past seven months, I've made over 200 appearances for various organizations around the City and in the surrounding counties, and I couldn't be happier to do it. parents here, and they are more than excited for me to be doing this. (Applause.)
For them, this represents me putting myself in not the greatest of situations for years. I taught in a DC inner city school and we had fire extinguishers thrown at us, but for me it was worth it. I always wanted to be out in the community and out doing that. As Miss Philadelphia, I've had the opportunity to ask a terminally ill child to come dance with me, and watching her face light up makes it all worth it for me. We all saw last night that Philadelphia is the place where dreams come true and Philadelphia is the city that always loves you back. So I am so proud to represent you, and I hope I'm doing a great job. And, hey, if anyone wants to come to the pageant on March 28th, let us know. We'd love to have you. That's it. Thanks. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Brown, who will present a resolution honoring Operation Warm on the occasion of celebrating their 10th anniversary. Will Ms. Kim Fortunato and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium.
To our guests in Council and to members of this body, many of you have been extremely supportive of the Warmth in Winter effort we've been doing for the last nine years to citizens citywide and ask you to please contribute new hats, new mittens, new scarves and new gloves, and then we take all of those and give them back to the typically 2,500 homeless children that are in more than 30 shelters around the City. This year we are thrilled and excited that we have a new partner. We met this summer, and today in many ways solidifies this wonderful new relationship we will be enjoying with Operation Warm. So we want to say thank you publicly on the record and salute this wonderful new collaboration. So this morning we are honoring Operation Warm on the occasion of celebrating their 10th anniversary and the distribution of 500,000 new winter coats for our city's children. Whereas, for ten years, Operation Warm has provided the gift of a new winter coat to children in need; and Whereas, the importance of a be understated, because for too many of our young people not having a winter coat means they are unable to attend school, may suffer from illness and have a lower self-esteem; and Whereas, a warm coat is one of the most essential items requested by families, schools and community-based organizations during the winter months; and Whereas, a new winter coat facilitates acceptance and eliminates embarrassment and social isolation; and Whereas, in 2008, Operation Warm will celebrate ten years of service to children in need with the distribution of 500,000 new coats; and Whereas, Operation Warm new coats come in a variety of colors and styles, are of superior quality and extremely warm. I can testify. I went to the plant and saw them. Whereas, working directly with manufacturers, Operation Warm achieves economies of scale facilitating the purchase of new winter coats at lower than wholesale prices; and Whereas, in 2008, Operation Warm will distribute 140,000 new winter coats to Philadelphia's children; and Whereas, in 2008, Operation Warm is partnering with my office's Warmth in Winter program, pairing a new coat with hats and mittens and scarves and gloves that we will collect this fall throughout the City; and Whereas, the Automobile Dealers' Caring for Kids Foundation has provided the funding to provide the gift of warmth to 3,000 of Philadelphia's children in need this winter. Now therefore resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, we hereby honor Operation Warm on the occasion of celebrating their 10th anniversary with the distribution of more than 500,000 new winter coats. further, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the representatives here this morning for their enormous, enormous commitment and laser-beam hard work looking out for the well-being of children in need as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Signed by President Verna, introduced by myself, Blondell Reynolds Brown, and supported by all members of the Philadelphia City Council. (Applause.)
Good morning. Madam President, Councilwoman Brown, thank you so much for your award to Operation Warm. Operation Warm is really delighted to be here in Philadelphia, special day in Philadelphia history, but also to be partnering with the City, with Councilwoman Brown and her initiative to keep children warm. We work really hard to keep kids warm all over the country, but especially right here in our backyard in Philadelphia. I'd just like to introduce our Government Affairs team member, Cydney Irving-Dasent, who has really made this partnership with the Councilwoman possible. So thanks to all of you, and we'll continue our hard work in Philadelphia keeping all of Philadelphia's children as warm as we can.
Thank you very much. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones, resolution recognizing the Philadelphia neighborhoods Manayunk and Overbrook Farms. Will Mr. Barry Seymour and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. I see that Councilman Jones is being accompanied by Councilman Greenlee and Councilman Goode.
Ladies and gentlemen, first-class cities have to have some essential ingredients. First they have to have first-class sports teams. (Applause.)
And then because we are a city of neighborhoods, we have to have great neighborhoods, and we're here to recognize two great neighborhoods out of many in the City of Philadelphia. Today we will be honoring, recognizing and congratulating the Philadelphia neighborhoods of Manayunk being selected by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission as "Classic Towns of Greater Philadelphia."
Whereas, in an effort to revitalize and support Philadelphia's historical communities, the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission has launched a new program entitled "Classic Towns of Greater Philadelphia"; and Whereas, the DVRPC selected the Philadelphia neighborhoods of Manayunk and Overbrook Farms as two of the 11 "Classic Towns" selected for the inaugural class; and
Whereas, the "Classic Towns of Greater Philadelphia" are attractive places to live, work and play with walkable neighborhoods and are accessible to public transportation and feature a strong sense of community. These communities simultaneously balance the heritage while welcoming new and vibrant development;
Whereas, the Philadelphia neighborhoods of Manayunk and Overbrook Farms continue to exhibit the great attributes of "Classic Towns of Greater Philadelphia." In both communities, residents and visitors are able to enjoy and invest in the historic architecture of the mid 19th century as well as visit the local restaurants, boutiques and entertainment shops; Whereas, it is through the retention of its intended character while integrating the dynamics of today's technology found in "Classic Towns of Greater Philadelphia" that will keep the City of Philadelphia a vibrant and attractive city to invest and visit;
And be it further resolved that this engrossed copy of this resolution shall be presented to Winnie Clowry, President of the Manayunk Corporation; Kevin Smith, President of the Manayunk Neighborhood Council; and Terry Henry, President of Overbrook Farms Club as evidence of our sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Signed by all members of Council. Also with us is Loree Jones, who is no stranger to these Chambers. (Applause.)
Thanks. On behalf of the Board of the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, we really thank Council for this recognition. Philadelphia is a city of neighborhoods, but it's also a city of small towns and it's a city in the context of a larger region. We want people to come to Philadelphia. We want them to come to the Philadelphia region. We want them to discover the small towns that make this region and make this city great. So we're pleased to be able to recognize Overbrook Farms and Manayunk as 11 "Classic Towns" across the region. You'll see them advertised on ClassicTowns.org where we'll be trying to bring people down and get them to locate in these terrific communities. So thank you very much. (Applause.)
Good morning. Councilman Jones mentioned that I'm no stranger obviously to City Hall, but my new role is Executive Director of the Manayunk Development Corporation, and on behalf of Manayunk, we're very proud to continue in the tradition of other folks like Kay Secora and Fran Burns, who came before me, to really make sure that Manayunk, like all the other neighborhoods in the City of Philadelphia, is a great place for people to play, to shop, to live, to work, and we're really excited by this. Thank you, Council. (Applause.)
On behalf of Farms, we're just really pleased to be part of the group, part of the "Classic Towns," and we feel that Councilman Jones has been a great support to us, and we thank the Councilmembers in supporting us in this effort. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Hello. I'm Kevin Smith, President of the Manayunk Neighborhood Council. Manayunk is a great place to live and a great place to walk, get you healthy. We face many challenges going forward. So, I mean, are the questions facing us is how do we keep Manayunk a great town and how do we make it even a better town. Thanks.
Thank you very much. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
I would ask Council to look at the definition from to Manayunk by the Lenape Indians. I will not memorialize it. But look at it.
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who will present a resolution recognizing Wynne Alexander. Will Ms. Alexander and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium.
Thank you, Madam President. It is with great pleasure that we honor Wynne Alexander this morning.
Excuse me, Councilwoman. The noise level is much too high. Anybody having conversations, please do so in the corridor.
Thank you very much. And we've waited a long time to have this honor. All of you when you hear her voice will remember Wynne know her name, you'll recognize her voice as a radio personality and her family for many years. With her is her sister Minyon and her niece Sasha. We welcome them. Resolution honoring and recognizing Wynne Alexander for her impressive career as a journalist, author, composer, civil rights activist and international recording artist, and commending her on the accomplishment of her ground-breaking new book, Get It From the Drums. Whereas, at just under 19, Wynne Alexander joined the prestigious news staff at radio station WDAS AM-FM in Philadelphia, where she covered hard-hitting news, including interviews and stories on Coretta Scott King, Muhammad Ali, Rosa Parks, Ambassador Andrew Young and BB King, just to name a few; and Whereas, Wynne is the author of the first and only musically infused the United States, contained in her ground-breaking new book, Get It From the Drums; and Whereas, that important work was originally commissioned by Dr. S. C. , as information officer and speech writer and Pennsylvania State Representative Louise Williams-Bishop as a speech writer; and Whereas, Ms. Alexander's creative talents include work as a composer and international recording artist whose music has been critically Paris, France; and Whereas, her music CDs are in Cote d'Ivoire, Australia, Russia, Switzerland, Yugoslavia, France and Greece; and Whereas, whenever Wynne and drummer, fellow Philadelphian Robert Lee are on stage, they send an immediate signal of cultural embrace, artistic excellence and unity; and Whereas, they are following the tradition set forth by the great Louise Armstrong, serving as musical ambassadors, bridging cultural differences and bringing people together. Now therefore be it resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia honors and recognizes Wynne Alexander for her impressive career as a composer, journalist, author, civil rights activist and international recording artist, and commends her on the accomplishment of her ground-breaking book, Get It From the Drums. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Wynne Alexander as the sincere expression of the City Council's recognition and appreciation. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 12th of June 2008. It is signed by the President. I'm sorry, Curtis. I left you out. You co-signed this with me. You'll have to forgive me. And certainly by all members of Council. And I have one more quote to read, that she is certainly honored and -- honoring and recognizing Wynne Alexander for her impressive career as journalist, author, composer, civil rights activist and international recording artist, and commending her on the accomplishment of her ground-breaking new book, Get It From the Drums. It's an honor. )
Madam President, it's a pleasure to address you as such. Councilwoman Blackwell, of course, you and I have been through crises together, and it would not be me if I didn't say thank you to both you and Lou.
For all that we've been through. And Marian Tasco and Curtis Jones. There's some old-line freedom fighters in the room today. I basically have a couple things to say: Shalom aleichem, shalom, Barack Obama. (Applause.)
And may the force be with us on the 4th and all will be well. Thank you very much. And, you know, what he represents is what you just talked about in this resolution, and maybe now that the scoundrel's day is over, the right-doing and right-thinking people of the world can take their rightful place. Thank you. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am submitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body the following ordinance: Authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a second amendment to an existing sublease between PAID and the City for use of certain office space located at 1101 Market Street, under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to transfer to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development 1433 to 35 Poplar Street for further conveyance; and An ordinance authorizing the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to install an overhead canopy at the St. John Evangelist House development, under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance enacting a new Chapter 9-3300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Electronic Equipment Collection, Recycling and Reuse," to establish an electronics recycling system that ensures the safe and environmentally sound handling.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution urging Allan H. "Bud" Selig, the Commissioner of Baseball, to consider adding one day game during each Playoff Series and the World Series so that youth can share in the excitement of these games, and we can preserve the next generation of baseball fans.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce one resolution.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 27th, 44th and 51st Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the construction of storm water sewers and appurtenant work in Delaware Avenue from Lewis Street to Orthodox Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer two resolutions, one bill and one resolution on your behalf.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code, relating to Sidewalk Sales, by prohibiting sidewalk sales on Cheltenham Avenue within the Ninth District.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution urging the United States Department of Agriculture to maintain and properly fund the Universal Feeding Program in the School District of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution declaring November 17th to 23rd Global Entrepreneurship Week in Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 36th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. I have two resolutions, one on behalf of the Administration.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution congratulating and honoring Charles A. Bishop on being elected and installed as the 99th Most Worshipful Grand Master of Prince Hall Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 34th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution recognizing and thanking the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for passing House Bill No. 2200 which will provide Philadelphia families relief from high electricity bills, guarantee a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, and work to stimulate the creation of green jobs in Pennsylvania.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer three bills and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a second amendment to an existing sublease between the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development and the City for the City's use of certain office space located at 1101 Market Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to construct, own and maintain a marquee canopy at the St. John Evangelist House, 1211 to 1213 Clover Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Section 14-304 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Commercial District," by amending the floor area requirements for hotels, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 31st Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. I was really distracted. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 31st Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Actually, I'm going to hold those. There are a couple of questions I have about them.
Very well. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to transfer to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, for nominal consideration, a certain parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon, known as 1433-1435 Poplar Street.
The to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports 21 bills out with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Streets and Services, to which was referred Bill No. 080544, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 163 by relocating the southwesterly houseline and curbline of Ridge Avenue near Calumet Street"; and Bill No. 080574, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-212 of The Philadelphia Code by prohibiting newsstands on both sides of 5th Street between Ludlow and Market Streets"; and Bill No. 080625, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 42 by striking from the City Plan and vacating 30th Street from Walnut Street"; and Bill No. 080628, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the grant to the City of two rights-of-way for municipal purposes"; and Bill No. 080629, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 060730, approved November 16, 2006, by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein"; and Bill No. 080630, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 197 by placing on the City Plan an extension of Ontario Street from its existing terminus"; and Bill No. 080631, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the grant to the City of a right-of-way for gas main purposes within the lines of former Stevenson Street, southeast of Frankford Avenue"; and Bill No. 080633, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the paving of Ontario Street"; and Bill No. 080635, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of a portion of City Plan No. 34-S in the area south of Oregon Avenue and west of Christopher Columbus Boulevard"; and Bill No. 080637, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 34-S and 41-S"; and Bill No. 080638, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the installation of a left turn green arrow traffic signal at the intersection of Crescentville Road and Adams Avenue"; and Bill No. 080639, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Mount Airy Revitalization Corporation to construct, own and maintain a sign at the traffic island of Wadsworth Avenue"; and Bill No. 080641, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 128"; and Bill No. 080643, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 040569, approved July 1, 2004, by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein"; and Bill No. 080644, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 158 and striking from the City Plan and abandoning a certain right-of-way for drainage purposes"; and Bill No. 080648, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code," by amending Section 12-102, entitled "Definitions," by amending Section 12-902, entitled "Parking for Certain Purposes Prohibited"; and Bill No. 080651, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 12-918 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Parking for Car Sharing Organizations"; and Bill No. 080652, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City 63 by striking from the City Plan and abandoning a right-of-way reserved for gas main purposes"; and Bill No. 080653, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 58 by placing on the City Plan an extension of Mount Vernon Street"; and Bill No.
080654, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, by amending Section 9-203 relating to Street Vendors and Section 9-205 relating to Sidewalk Sales, by prohibiting street and sidewalk vending on certain portions of Spring Garden Street"; and Bill No. 080725, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 120 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Cleveland Street from Girard Avenue to Stiles Street, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so that the bills just read and reported from committee be deemed to have had a first reading and that such bills be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for the next session of City Council. (Duly seconded.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez for a on Licenses and Inspections.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Licenses and Inspections reports three bills with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Licenses and Inspections, to which was referred Bill No. 080433, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 9-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Service and Other Businesses,' by amending Section 9-610, entitled 'Massage Businesses,' by amending the requirements for operation of a massage business"; and Bill No. 080546, entitled "The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code," by amending Section PM-302.4, entitled "Grading and Drainage," by adding certain structures the accumulation of stagnant water, and making certain technical changes; and Bill No. 080622, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions,' by adding a new Chapter regulating the erection, use and inspection of tower cranes, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so to allow first reading of these bills, 433, 546 and 622, today. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Miller for a report from the Committee on the Disabled and the Handicapped.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on the Disabled and the Handicapped reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on the Disabled and the Handicapped, to which was referred Bill No. 080149, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 12-1117 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Physically Handicapped and Disabled or Severely Disabled Veteran Parking,' and Section 12-2809, entitled 'Civil Penalties and Costs,' by expressly prohibiting certain improper uses of disabled parking permits and providing for penalties, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the 10/30/08 - STATED - 1ST READING rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 080149. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bill just reported from committee. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The motion carries, and the bill just read will be placed on the First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the bills on the First Reading Calendar.
Bill No. 080433, an ordinance amending Chapter 9-600 of 10/30/08 - STATED - 1ST READING The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Service and Other Businesses," by amending the requirements for operation of a massage business, under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 080546, an ordinance amending Subcode "PM," The Philadelphia Property Maintenance Code, of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, by adding certain structures to the provisions prohibiting the accumulation of stagnant water, and making certain technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 080622, an ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code by adding a new Chapter relating to the erection, use and inspection of tower cranes, all under certain terms and conditions. 10/30/08 - STATED - 1ST READING
And Bill No. 080149, an ordinance amending Section 12-1117 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Physically Handicapped and Disabled or Severely Disabled Veteran Parking," by expressly prohibiting certain improper uses of disabled parking permits and providing for penalties, all under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair agrees. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco. Councilwoman Tasco, would you mind if someone else read what bills are coming up for consideration. I'm sorry. I believe on the First Reading Calendar, Councilman Kenney, it's my understanding that you have an amendment to one of the bills.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules 10/30/08 - STATED - 1ST READING of Council be suspended so as to permit an amendment to be offered to Bill No. 080622. The amendment has been circulated to the entire Council, and it is simply a numbering amendment. It's a technical amendment that does not change in any way the substance of the bill. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you again, Madam President. I would like to offer an amendment to Bill No. 080622 and move its adoption. (Duly seconded.) 10/30/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
All in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and Bill No. 080622 is amended. Bill No. 080622 and all other bills read by the Chief Clerk on the First Reading Calendar will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, today Bill Nos. 080745, 080548, 080632, 080649, 080743, 080585 and 080636 are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today. All other bills are being held.
Thank 10/30/08 - STATED - 2ND READING you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080745.
An ordinance amending Bill No. 070994-A, approved December 21, 2007, entitled "Authorizing the Director of Finance, Commissioner of Public Property and other officials of the City to execute either directly or through the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development various agreements, instruments of conveyance and other transactional documents by and among the City, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080548. 10/30/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
An ordinance amending Section 2 of Bill No. 050510, approved November 17, 2005, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps," by extending the period of compliance.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080632.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Thompson Street, Juniata Street, Salmons Street, Berkshire Street, Richmond Street and the Betsy Ross Bridge Approach.
This bill having been read on two different 10/30/08 - STATED - 2ND READING days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. 10/30/08 - STATED - 2ND READING The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080649.
An ordinance amending Section 14-1621 of The Philadelphia Code by adding telemarketing as a prohibited use, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman 10/30/08 - STATED - 2ND READING DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.
Councilman O'Neill voting aye. 10/30/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080743.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2009 from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance Provision for other grants to the General 10/30/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Fund, the Director of Finance Indemnities.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080585.
An ordinance authorizing the Commerce Director and the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire an approximately 17 acre property in the vicinity of Island Avenue, Penrose Avenue and Escort Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The last bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 080636. 10/30/08 - STATED - 2ND READING
An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to convey fee simple title to a certain property located in the vicinity of 61st Street and Eastwick Avenue to the Philadelphia Regional Port Authority, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. That completes our Calendar for today. Are there speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. Last night I joined millions of Americans across this country who tuned in and listened to Senator Barack Obama in his eloquent, yet laser-beam focus and discussion of the many challenges facing our city. He offered proposed solutions to our broken healthcare system. He talked about energy independence and how everyone must join in energy conservation. He also spoke in great detail about his goals to improve our country's public education system. Senator Barack Obama, Madam President, exemplified the words best spoken by the Governor of Massachusetts where he said, and I quote, "The challenges before us are big. They're going to require big solutions. This is going to require someone with big ideas, and that man is Senator Barack Obama." Madam President, but I've learned in my last eight years here that pay attention to what is happening nationally, politics is local. When we consider in Philadelphia that one-half of our ninth graders who enter ninth grade 48 months later do not see the graduation door, 45 percent of the dropout rate of young people from kindergarten to 12th grade is a leading contributor to poverty and crime. Experts agree that the City's dismal college-going achievement rate, where nationally Pennsylvania ranks 92 out of 100, cripples our city's economy. The national dropout rate is a national catastrophe. It is also an expensive one. Dropouts are three times more likely to be unemployed, eight times more likely to be incarcerated. So why do I raise this issue at this time, Madam President? I believe that we here in Philadelphia also have challenges before us that are big at the School District. We need someone who recognizes that these problems require fact, a report commissioned by the General Assembly said in 2007 that there was a $4.4 billion funding shortfall in Pennsylvania's public schools. Governor Rendell and the legislators made a down payment on closing the shortfall with 274 million in additional educational funding in the current fiscal year. So I submit also that we need someone with big ideas to confront these huge challenges. There is now someone I believe, a new leader, at the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce who also accepts the challenge and recognizes that the problems facing the School District are big. I believe that we now have someone with big ideas to confront those challenges. Further, I believe that the new Chairman at the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce believes that the Chamber can remain focused on its core mission of advocating for businesses the expansion and education funding, which can eventually improve our region's economic competitiveness. So I join in many educators across this city who applaud this new bold direction at the Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce. We now have Sandra Dungee Glenn as its capable Chairperson of the SRC, Dr. Arlene Ackerman as its no-nonsense CEO, and the new now David L. Cohen as the new Chair of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce. He in fact said that, quote, "Not only is it the right thing to do, but it is absolutely essential for our businesses to boost education funding. The Chamber cannot pursue an exclusively business agenda. We have to have a broader view of the vitality of the region and work in partnership with all those involved." Madam President, I believe that at the end of the day, the educational stars are better aligned and have become children. I thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. Councilman DiCicco, do you still want to be recognized? COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: No, Madam President.
Are there any other members of the majority that would like to be recognized? (No response.)
Seeing no one, the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that Council stand adjourned until November the 6th, Thursday, 2008, 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council Thursday, November 6th. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. Thank you all very much. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 11:20 a.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on October 30, 2008, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. ______________________________ MICHELE L. MURPHY RPR-Notary Public (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)