Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Via Microsoft Teams Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, October 7, 2021 10:13 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN ALLAN DOMB COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILWOMAN HELEN GYM COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILWOMAN CHERELLE L. PARKER COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Meeting Stated October 7, 2021
Good morning, everyone. We're going to get started, but before we begin the Council session today, I will make the following announcement: Due to the continuing threat to public health from COVID-19 and the delta variant, City Council is currently meeting remotely. We are using Microsoft Teams to make this remote meeting possible. Instructions for how the public may view the meeting and offer public comment are included in the Stated Meeting notice that was published in the Daily News, the Inquirer, and Legal Intelligencer prior to the meeting, and can also be found on PHLCouncil.com. I now note that the hour has come. The Clerk will please call the roll to take attendance, and members that are in attendance, please say you're present or a couple of words to make sure that your image is displayed on the screen. Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 Decker, please call the roll.
Good morning, Council President, colleagues, and the viewing public. Good morning.
Good morning, Council President, colleagues, and Philadelphia. I'm present.
Good morning, Council President and colleagues and the City of Philadelphia.
Good morning, Council President and colleagues and to the public. Present.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. And good morning, Philadelphia.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. I am present.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Just sending Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 all the families who have lost loved ones to senseless gun violence.
Good morning, Prez. Good morning, colleagues. And congratulations to all the minority entrepreneurs out there. It is MED Week.
Good morning. Thank you for that notation, Councilman.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues.
Good Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 morning, Mr. President and colleagues. Good morning, Philadelphia.
Good morning. Good morning. Buenos dias. Buenos dias. Thank you to Hispanic Heritage Month. Thank you to all my colleagues for sharing with the communities throughout the City. Thank you.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Good morning to Philadelphia.
And good morning to you all. Thank you very much. We have established a quorum, so we're going to start out with our invocation. And to give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Imam Jamil Abdullah of Philadelphia Masjid. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Gauthier. I would ask all members and guests to please bow your heads for the invocation. Imam, please proceed.
First I want to say good morning to the Council President Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 also the citizens of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Just let us take a moment as I open up in prayer. (Imam Abdullah talking in Arabic.) With the name of God, most gracious, most merciful, all praises are due to almighty God, the Lord cherisher and sustainer of the world, most gracious, most merciful master of the day of judgment. He alone do devotion, thy name we seek. Show us the straight way, the way of those (unintelligible) that has bestowed thy grace, those whose portion is not ravs (ph) and who go not astray. And my prayer for today and our prayer is that almighty God will keep our Councilmembers safe, keep you under his grace and mercy, will allow you to stand up and speak for what's right, stand up for excellence and dignity for all the citizens of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 you as you legislate laws and as you travel out there; that he will always keep you under his mercy and that he will allow you to work together collectively for the common good of all citizens of Philadelphia and really citizens throughout the country; that we can work collectively together to make this wonderful city, Philadelphia, a place that we know what it's capable of being, that we can all live together in peace and harmony and we can do the things that's necessary that almighty God has commanded us to do. And keep up the good work, Councilmembers. And I want to say that our prayers are for you and your family, that he will always keep you safe and allowing you to do things that is most pleasing to him, first and foremost. Again, we'd like to just say thank you, keep up the good work, and our prayers is with you and your family. Let us work collectively so we can just show Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 that Philadelphia is just a wonderful place to live and a wonderful place to bring your family, and live in peace, tranquility, and harmony. May God's mercy and blessings be upon all of you and he keep you safe and keep you under his grace and keep you all under his protection. Thank you again. Peace be unto you. Thank you again. May God's mercy of peace and his blessings be with all of you. Thank you.
Thank you. Thank you so much, Imam. Thank you for the invocation and the spiritual guidance this morning. We appreciate it.
Our next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 30th, 2021, and the Chair Meeting Stated October 7, 2021
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting on Thursday, September 30th, 2021 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 30th, 2021 stand approved. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. And our next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker.
Thank Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 you, Mr. President. On behalf of the members of Council, a leave of absence is requested for Councilmembers Henon, O'Neill, and Green.
Thank you, Councilwoman. Leave shall be granted for those Councilmembers, let the record reflect. We have a motion on the Sunshine Act, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session of Council and that were not listed on the Calendar circulated prior to today's session. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that any of the following matters, if considered today, may be added to the agenda for this session of Council and, as required by law, subsequently published on an Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 after the consideration of those matters: resolutions authorizing hearings, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration of a bill vetoed by or re-called from the Mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in the session, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar, and a motion placing a bill or resolution on or returning a bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to be included on the Calendar that was published prior to today's session.
Thank you. It has been moved and Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 legislative matters stated by Councilwoman Parker may be added to the agenda for today, should those matters arise during the Council session. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. And our next order of business is communications. And, Mr. Decker, would you please read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications that you may have in your possession.
From the Mayor to the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 following bills: Bill Nos. 210629, 210633, and 210689. And I am submitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution confirming the reappointment Brian J. McCormick as a member of the Board of Ethics, to serve in the term ending November 16, 2026; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2553 Kern Street located in the 1st Councilmanic District; and An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance (Bill No. 170002) approved May 22, 2017, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 269 by relocating the easterly houseline of University Avenue, from a point approximately five-hundred forty-five feet north of Curie Boulevard to a point approximately two-hundred thirty-six feet further northwardly Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 therefrom, a variable distance eastwardly, thereby widening said University Avenue," by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein; and An ordinance authorizing an increase in the non-electoral indebtedness of the City within the Pennsylvania constitutional limit; authorizing the Bond Committee to sell bonds at public or private negotiated sale, to provide funds toward various capital municipal purposes; providing for appropriations to the Sinking Fund Commission for the payment of such bonds; and authorizing agreements to provide credit or payment or liquidity sources for the bonds in connection with issuance of the bonds, and certain other actions, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. That concludes our communications, and our next order of Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. By way of a reminder, we are asking that all resolutions, including privileged resolutions, be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for the next session of Council, unless they are being referred to committee. In our current remote environment, this procedure will provide an appropriate opportunity for public comment. I want to thank you very much for your anticipated cooperation. Mr. Decker, would you please read the titles of the legislation that is being offered today by our members.
Yes, Mr. President. Councilwoman Parker offers two bills and one resolution. On behalf of Council President Clarke, Councilwoman Parker offers an ordinance amending Bill No. 200351, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the operation of sidewalk Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 cafes during the COVID-19 emergency until December 31, 2020 in areas of the City where such activity currently must be otherwise authorized by special ordinance, and allowing expanded activity by currently licensed sidewalk cafe operations," as amended by Bill No. 200497, to further extend the date Bill No. 200351 will remain in effect.
And an ordinance amending Bill No. 200352, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 11-100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'General Provisions,' to authorize the Streets Department to permit closure of the public right-of-way," during the COVID-19 emergency as amended by Bill No. 200498, to further extend the date Bill 200352 will remain in effect.
And on her own Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 behalf, Councilwoman Parker offers a resolution recognizing October 18 through 24, 2021 as National Estate Planning Awareness Week.
Councilman Jones offers one resolution, entitled a "Resolution recognizing and honoring the United Age Group Track Club Association for its dedication to the development of young track and field athletes; and further authorizing the Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs to hold hearings on the state of track facilities in the City of Philadelphia."
Councilman Johnson offers four resolutions, entitled a "Resolution recognizing the 7th Ward Tribute, an artistic installation project paying homage to the remarkable Black history of Philadelphia's 7th Ward, for Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 its dedication to preserving Black history and culture in Philadelphia."
And a resolution honoring Anne Ewers, on the occasion of her retirement as President and CEO of the Kimmel Center, Incorporated, for 14 years of outstanding service to the Philadelphia cultural community and to the entire City of Philadelphia.
And a resolution also naming the 2000 block of Christian Street "Father John Van de Paer Way" to honor the life and legacy of Father John Van de Paer.
And a resolution also naming the 2300 block of South 21st Street "Ronald R. Donatucci Sr. Way" to honor the life and legacy of Ronald R. Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 Donatucci, Senior.
Councilwoman Gauthier offers two bills, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Parking Regulations and Penalties,' to add a new section entitled 'Parking for Qualified School Employees,' to provide parking for certain school employees at certain locations."
And an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance (Bill No. 170002) approved May 22, 2017, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 269 by relocating the easterly houseline of University Avenue, from a point approximately five-hundred forty-five feet north of Curie Boulevard to a point approximately two-hundred Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 thirty-six feet further northwardly therefrom, a variable distance eastwardly, thereby widening said University Avenue," by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein.
Councilman Thomas offers two resolutions, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Committee on Education to hold hearings on the procurement, contracting and management processes of the School District of Philadelphia for student busing to establish what if any errors, omissions or lessons learned can be derived from the systematic failure of contracted busing to deliver students on time and ready to learn."
And a resolution honoring and congratulating Champion of Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 the Week, Northeast High School Boys Volleyball team, on their successful 2020-2021 season and their Philadelphia Public League Championship win.
Councilman Squilla offers two bills and two resolutions. On behalf of Councilman O'Neill, Councilman Squilla offers an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Oxford Avenue, Shelmire Avenue, Rising Sun Avenue (extended), Solly Avenue (extended), the County Line, Borbeck Avenue, Hasbrook Avenue, and Hartel Avenue.
On behalf of Council President Clarke, Councilman Squilla offers an ordinance amending Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 Section 12-1120 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Abandoned Vehicles," to authorize Public Safety Officers to authorize the removal of abandoned vehicles.
On his own behalf, Councilman Squilla offers a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2553 Kern Street located in the 1st Councilmanic District.
And a resolution designating the week of Sunday, October 10 through Saturday, October 16, 2021 as "Italian American Heritage Week" in the City of Philadelphia and honoring Joe Piscopo as the Grand Marshall of the 2021 Philadelphia Italian American Parade. This year, the parade is also dedicated to the life and legacy of Anna C. Verna, longtime City Council member, a lifelong Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 supporter of the Italian American Parade.
Councilwoman Bass offers five bills and one resolution, entitled "An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Shawnee Street and Abington Avenue; Chestnut Hill Avenue and Bethlehem Pike; Highland Avenue and Germantown Avenue and Tohopeka Lane; Ardleigh Street and Southampton Street, Springfield Avenue and St. Martins Lane; Meade Street and Shawnee Street"; and An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Mentor Street and Windrim Avenue; Pelham Road and Mower Street; and An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Sulis Street and North 2nd Street; Ashdale Street and North 4th Street; Rittenhouse Street to Wissahickon Street; and Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Tioga Street and North 15th Street; and An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Penn Street, Morris Street, Coulter Street, and Priscilla Street.
Those five bills will be referred to the appropriate committees.
And a resolution honoring Frances Piller for her dedicated service to the City of Philadelphia.
Councilman Oh offers one resolution, entitled a "Resolution calling on the U.S. Department of Education to resolve bureaucratic errors within the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program which have led to the exclusion of qualified Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 servants."
There are no other bills or resolutions being offered today by the members, Mr. President.
Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. That concludes our introduction of bills and resolutions, and next we will have our reports from committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for a report from the Committee on Finance.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Finance reports out three bills with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 Philadelphia, the Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 210681, entitled "An ordinance approving the 2021-2022 Neighborhood Preservation Initiative Program Statement and Budget, which addresses the expenditure of $100 million by various agencies in the first year of the Neighborhood Preservation Initiative Program, and approving a Substantial Amendment to the Annual Action Plan 2021-2022, the City's consolidated housing and housing-related expenditures plan, to incorporate the Program Statement and Budget into the Action Plan"; and Bill No. 210682, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the City Treasurer, on behalf of the City, to enter into an amendment to an agreement with Citizens Bank of Pennsylvania for provision of payroll banking services to the City"; and Bill No. 210684, entitled "An ordinance authorizing, generally, the Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 by the City of Philadelphia of Gas Works Revenue Notes of the City, prescribing the forms of notes and providing for their execution and payment, pledging certain revenues of the Gas Works as security, adopting a rate covenant and directing the imposition and collection of rates and charges sufficient to comply therewith," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you again, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to allow first reading this day of Bills No. 210681, 210682, and 210684. (Duly seconded.)
Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 210681, 210682, and 210684. All those in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and these bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. That concludes our reports from committee, and our next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committee with a suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had their first reading, and these bills will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker for a motion concerning the resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar. They are Resolution Nos. 210755, 210785, 210786, 210788, 210789, 210790, 210791, 210793, 210794, 210796, and 210797. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the resolutions just read by Councilwoman Parker. All in favor indicate by saying aye. Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 2ND READING (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries, and we will consider the Resolution Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Parker for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today.
Thank you, Mr. President. In addition to the resolutions being considered on the Consent Agenda, the following resolutions and bills are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today. They are Nos. 210787, 210795, 210636. All other bills and resolutions are being held, Mr. President.
Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 Thank you very much, Councilwoman. Before we consider the agenda today, we will proceed with the public comment session. So we're going to take a five-minute, maybe ten-minute break to give our technology professionals an opportunity to connect with the individuals who wish to testify today. We'll take a brief break. Thank you. (Short recess.)
Thank you, and welcome back. We're going to consider our public comment now, but before we proceed, we will now take a moment to go over the ground rules relating to that. So before we consider the public comment, it will go as follows: Public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for possible action at a Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 session of Council. A speaker on any of those matters must sign up in order to testify. You must call 215-686-3406 by 3:00 p.m. the day before the session to sign up for the public comment. When you call, we will take your name, phone number, the number of the legislative item you are commenting on and whether you are in support of or against the legislation, and add your name to the list. We will then telephone each person on the list during the Council session and invite them to our remote meeting. Under ideal circumstances, we would like to have three minutes. We're going to ask -- it's a little on the edge in terms of the volume, so we're going to authorize three minutes, but we're going to ask people to get as quickly as possible through their testimony to ensure that you're able to get all of your testimony in in the time limit. But from time to time, that may vary based on Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 the volume. In order to be fair, though, to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the established time limit. And once invited to the meeting and asked to begin your testimony, a timer will be started, and we will monitor your remaining time throughout your testimony. When there are 30 seconds remaining to your time, you will be reminded of this, and once your allotted time has passed, you will be asked to conclude your remarks and shortly thereafter you will be muted and disconnected from the remote meeting. I also reserve the right to limit the number of speakers where repetitious comments are being made on the same subject matter. This may affect callbacks (background noise) and public comment at the meeting. Please be aware that the public meeting is being recorded, and because the meeting is public, participants Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 (background noise). So by continuing to be in the meeting, you are consenting to being recorded. I will now ask Mr. Decker to please call the first name on the list.
Good morning. Please state your name for the record and proceed with your testimony.
Good morning. My name is Sue Hoffman. I'm the Program Manager for the Women in Nontraditional Careers Project, known as WINC, and the project is sponsored by Philadelphia Works, the Philadelphia Workforce Development Board. I'm speaking in favor of Resolution 210787 honoring Erin O'Brien-Hoffmann -- we are not related -for receiving a 2021 Tradeswomen Heroes Award from NAB, to the North America's Building Trades Unions. I want to personally thank Councilwoman Katherine Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 Gilmore Richardson for acknowledging Erin and her work. I've known Erin for three years, since the beginning of the Women in Nontraditional Careers initiative. When WINC decided to start its first Tradeswomen Readiness Program this past summer, we chose Erin as the lead instructor and program coordinator. Erin went above and beyond to make sure she organized field trips to introduce aspiring tradeswomen to as many apprenticeship programs as possible. She personally counseled and connected the graduates to opportunities in the union building trades. So Erin really is a true role model and a mentor for women in the trades in the Philadelphia region. Erin knows that women can thrive in non-traditional employment and earn great pay and benefits to take care of their families. Through her work and through WINC, together we are making it possible for more women to succeed in the Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 trades in the Philadelphia area. So I want to thank Council for honoring Erin O'Brien-Hoffmann with this well-deserved recognition. She is truly a hero. Thank you.
Thank you very much for your testimony. We appreciate it.
The next speaker is Erin O'Brien-Hoffmann, commenting on 210787.
Before we start, could somebody mute their mic. We're having a lot -- thank you. Ms. O'Brien?
My name is Erin O'Brien-Hoffmann. I am the Commercial Paint Instructor for District Council 21, Local Union 2011. As Sue had Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 mentioned, I also had the opportunity to be the lead instructor for WINC, Women in Nontraditional Careers, this past summer for this very first cohort. And I'm humbled and honored that I'm being recognized, you know, in today's meeting. And this is not a chore or a job for me, and my career has come with much pleasure and I get to be a cheerleader every day for the women in Philadelphia to enter the Philadelphia union building trades. And while this job may not be for every girl, it is for any girl, and I hope that I can continue to encourage women to follow their dreams in regards of the non-traditional workforce. Thank you.
Thank you very much for your testimony. We appreciate it.
Good Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 morning, Mr. Eiding. Just state your name for the record and please proceed with your testimony.
Good morning. My name is Pat Eiding. I am the President of the Philadelphia Council of the AFL-CIO, also Secretary/Treasurer of the Philadelphia Building Trades Council. It is my pleasure to speak to President Clarke and the Councilmembers. It's my pleasure to speak on behalf of this resolution for Erin O'Brien-Hoffmann. I have known Erin many years and watched her as she took the message of the great career that is before young women in not only the City of Philadelphia building construction trades but nationally. She's done a tremendous -through her tremendous effort, many women are now in the building construction trades here in Philadelphia, but her message and her hard work is not only just with the Philadelphia building Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 trades. Her effort in WINC, which is Women in Nontraditional Trades, has been over and above what we could expect anywhere nationally, let alone here in Philadelphia. I think Philadelphia is the forefront of the women in the trades because of Erin and the folks that she works with. I just am so proud to be able to support this resolution for Erin and the great work she's done and the great work she's doing as she continues on with training young women and young men actually in the construction field. It's a great career because of her tenacity and caring. A lot of folks who -- a lot of women who wouldn't think that they would want this as a career have moved forward, and I think it's just to her credit. The National has recognized her, and I think it's only fitting that the City of Philadelphia recognize her, and I am proud to be able to speak for Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 her and support this resolution. Thank you very much.
Thank you for your testimony. We appreciate it.
Good morning. State your name for the record and please proceed with your testimony.
Hi. My name is Cynthia Stinson. I'm in support of Bill 210794 [sic]. Dorothy Bolden made a powerful quote in 1983, and I quote, she cares about the families she works for as she cares about her own. And yet she has -- and yet she said domestic workers have never been recognized as part of the labor force. This day is important, because she's a hidden gem to most domestic workers. She is a hidden gem to myself. She is an advocate, and her story will empower others to become an advocate for Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 themselves in this industry. Lastly, Dorothy Bolden is important because this is one step closer to closing the gap on overworked and underpaid domestic workers. I am a domestic worker. I am a nanny. I am a professional. I deserve to be treated as any other hardworking individual. Making October 13th Dorothy Bolden Day would mean the world to me, because I have been a domestic worker for 22 years now. And without domestic workers, there would be no doctors, there would be no lawyers, there would be no nurses, because we are the foundation of the working class.
Okay. Thank you. Thank you so much for your testimony. We appreciate it. Meeting Stated October 7, 2021
The next speaker is Shanique Jones, commenting on 210793 and 210794.
Good morning. State your name for the record and please proceed with your testimony.
Good morning. My name is Shanique Jones and I'm an organizer with the National Domestic Workers Alliance and its "We Dream in Black chesters (ph). I'm calling in support of Bill 210794 [sic] to recognize Dorothy Bolden and all Black domestic workers and the 16,000 domestic workers in the City. So there is no America without domestic workers. Since America has been sectioned, Black women have done the work that makes all other work possible and at first for no pay at all. So I stand in solidarity with these amazing women like Cynthia, who just spoke, who continue the beautiful, yet unappreciated work, of care for your Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 children, your elderly, for your household. They deserve respect, dignity, and recognition, and they are powerful just as Dorothy Bolden. So I'll end with a wonderful quote from our own Jennifer Mount, who is a caregiver in the City, and she said if the film is good, let it be heard. The most reliable way to predict the future is to create it. Today, Dorothy Bolden Day is a creation for future domestic workers, and we, the National Domestic Workers Alliance and We Dream in Black, are stronger than we know. Vote yes. Over 600 domestic workers and supporters have signed the petition in support as well. Thank you.
Thank you so much for your testimony. We really appreciate it.
Good Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 morning. Just state your name for the record and proceed with your testimony. (No response.)
The question is, is Ms. Vinson and Ms. Stinson the same person? Because I notice on our -- that's the same person. Okay. She's already testified. All right. Mr. Decker, move on to the next name.
Good morning. State your name for the record and please proceed with your testimony.
Good morning, everyone. My name is Whitney Brown and I am the Policy Associate at Women Against Abuse. I'm honored to speak with you today about Resolution 210755. On behalf of Women Against Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 Abuse, our sister agencies, and the survivors of domestic violence that we serve, I want to thank City Council for recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Philadelphia. As we prepare for this month, it was impossible not to reflect on the violence that has plagued our community over the last year. City Council is very aware of this, and we join them with both anger and compassion as we hear about shooting after shooting and death after death in our city. On behalf of our clients and this month especially, we come with a plea that our city's plans for addressing the current level of the violence consider the impacts of domestic violence, which is often overlooked in anti-violence strategies. So let's think about it. If those who are experiencing violence and those who are perpetrating it are coming from homes where violence is a way of Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 life, how can we expect to see something different in the streets? So we see this cycle, and we can stop it. So let's consider the ways in which violent and controlling behaviors that for centuries has been happening behind closed doors is impacting our communities, and let's acknowledge that what we're seeing on the news and in our streets is just a tip of the iceberg of what some people are experiencing in their own homes. So we know this. And as far as policy goes, I ask you all to consider whether you're prepared to acknowledge, address, and respond to your neighbors who are experiencing domestic violence who need support, those victims and people acting abusively. For example, do you have hotline cards? Are you aware of safe housing options to suggest to them? What about therapeutic supports? And that's just one side of what's needed. The Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 other side is prevention. So we ask ourselves, are we advocating for teen dating violence education in our neighborhood schools so that our young people can learn about the warning signs of abusive relationships before they enter into them, so that they can be ready with healthy communication strategies, feel confident in talking to their peers about violence and also know where to go to for support? And we see this cycle here in City Council and the young people do too, and we can work together to stop this. In closing, while today is an important day to officially recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month in our city, we must also remember that every day thousands of Philadelphians are experiencing domestic violence, and we have to better understand the connections between all types of violence if we want to effect change in our community. We need your leadership, and we Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 know you're up for the challenge. So, again, I thank you in proclaiming October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and I urge you all to make it count. Thanks again, and have a great rest of your day.
Thank you very much. Thank you for your testimony. We appreciate it.
Good morning. State your name for the record and please proceed with your testimony. (No response.)
Modesto? COUNCIL SUPPORT: We're trying Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 to connect her, Council President.
All right. Can we move on to Ms. Bell and come back?
Good morning. Just state your name for the record.
Hi. Yes. My name is Linda Bell, CPI alum. My testimony today is in support of Ordinance 210636. However, I also put in my further testimony to oppose Ordinance 210205, which reads as "An ordinance amending Chapter 9 of Subcode PM ('The Philadelphia Property Maintenance Code') of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Additional Special Requirements,' to establish a program in which the City may perform certain urgent repairs and bill the property owner; all under certain terms and conditions." My opposition is in the Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 presentation of the ordinance as is without further instruction as to how these urgent repairs would be identified, the property owner notified, how qualified workmen will be determined, and the billing amount determined. I am further requesting public hearings to discuss such concerns and proposed remedies. What plans are in place to offer financial assistance to those property owners to assure that these repairs will not contribute to the loss of property by owner. As a recipient of shoddy work through the Weatherization Program, without remedy, I would also ask that strict regulations and inspection be exercised, that the repairs do not cause additional damage to property, and that the repairs are inclusive of proper and complete closure of repair site; i.e., drywall and cement. Thank you. Meeting Stated October 7, 2021
Thank you very much for your testimony. We'll ask our technical staff to look and review what you just indicated in your testimony. Thank you so much. We appreciate it. Modesto, did we get Ms. Golden back yet? COUNCIL SUPPORT: Yes. She is in, Council President.
There you go. Good morning. State your name for the record and please proceed with your testimony.
Yes. My name is Jane Golden and I am the Executive Director of the Mural Arts Program in Philadelphia. Yay! And I'm just really thrilled that Council is introducing a resolution to declare this Mural Arts Month. I'm really grateful, Council President, to you and all your colleagues for years and years and years of support. Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 We believe deeply and passionately and tenaciously that art should be used in the service of all the citizens of our city, and we try every single day to stretch every single city dollar that we get as far as it can go and do work in criminal justice, behavioral health, education, and community development. We're thrilled that Philadelphia is known internationally as the City of Murals, that people come from all over, that there's huge interest in our city because of our commitment to artists, to public art, and communities. And during this month of October, we're shining a light on the communities we work with, on our participants, our stakeholders, and our artists. We have film screenings. We have dedications, exhibitions, and panel discussions. And if people go to our website, muralarts.org, I hope you'll find out about it. I hope you'll Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 participate, and please become part of the Mural Arts family. And I just want you to know how deeply committed and passionate we are about this work. We want to do our work tirelessly on behalf of citizens. We want to shine a light on the incredible artist community that we have. We have fabulous arts organizations in the City, and we feel that Mural Arts is a really interesting nexus of bringing together artists, communities, the public sector, the private sector, working all on behalf to make our city a more beautiful, healthy, wonderful place. And at the end of the day, we have a saying, and that saying is that art ignites change, and I say that to all of you with the utmost seriousness, because we get to see those changes in individuals and communities and, by extension, there's a giant change in the City of Philadelphia as we've turned this city into an outdoor museum. And I do Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 not take it lightly that we are able to do what we do every day because of the extraordinary civic leaders who support our work. So thank you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Councilmember Kathy Gilmore Richardson, thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you for introducing this. And, Council President, thank you for 25 years of supporting us, and all of you. You know, just my gratitude is huge, and we won't let you down. Thank you.
And yay to your testimony, and thank you so much. We appreciate what you do.
There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.
Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Decker. That concludes our public comment session. Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 proceed with our Resolution Consent Agenda, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. Today I'm grateful to have my resolution commemorating October 13th as Dorothy Bolden Day. It's going to be passed today in City Council. Dorothy Bolden was a leader in the civil rights and labor movement and one of the first women to elevate unfair, unsafe, undignified working conditions that domestic workers face every day. As many of us know, domestic workers and farm workers were excluded from federal labor protections because these roles were typically performed by people of color after slavery was abolished. Today these workers still lack many basic protections that all other forms of work are granted. Dorothy Bolden was not only a pivotal figure in the fight for racial, Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 gender, and economic justice, she was a proud domestic worker. Domestic labor cleaning, cooking, providing childcare, providing emotional and physical support for families, maintaining a home - is some of the hardest, most necessary work in our society. It is the kind of work that makes all other forms of labor possible. I know this because I've been a domestic worker. I know what it's like to work in other people's homes and feel undervalued, underpaid, and overlooked, and that's why we need to recognize bold, courageous women like Dorothy Bolden who rejected mistreatment and asserted their own dignity and power. Ms. Bolden founded the National Domestic Workers Union and inspired generations of domestic workers who were left out of essential labor protections to organize together, demand better for themselves and for each other and to harness their collective power. I put forth this resolution in Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 National Domestic Workers Alliance, the PA Chapter, and with the support of many of my colleagues, because too often Black women movement leaders are overlooked in history. Her work exemplified the approach to organizing and to politics that I fully believe in, where it's not about any one person, it's about uplifting those around you, activating working people to fight for justice. I'm honored to have this body recognize Dorothy Bolden Day next week on what would have been her 98th birthday. Let her memory remind us that in times of struggle and hardship, it is all even more important that we stand up for what's right and show up for each other and envision a better world. So thank you, Council President, and thank you to all of my colleagues for your support.
Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 you, Councilwoman. We will now move to our Consent Agenda. I would ask Mr. Decker to read the titles of all of the resolutions on the Consent Agenda, and after each title is read, any member may object to the inclusion of the resolution on the Consent Agenda. Upon such an objection, without debate, the resolution will be immediately removed from the Resolution Consent Agenda and placed on today's regular Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker, if you can please read the titles of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda now.
Resolution No. 210755, entitled a "Resolution declaring October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia"; and Resolution No. 210785, entitled a "Resolution supporting the workers of the Department of Homeland Security contractor Triple Canopy in their reasonable demands for improved working Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 conditions, particularly their protection from hair discrimination"; and Resolution No. 210786, entitled a "Resolution recognizing Wednesday, October 6, 2021, as Energy Efficiency Day in the City of Philadelphia"; and Resolution No. 210788, entitled a "Resolution joining Mural Arts Philadelphia in celebrating October as Mural Arts Month in Philadelphia"; and Resolution No. 210789, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the City Council Committees on Children and Youth and Education to hold public hearings on the search and hiring process for the next Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, and the role that the perspectives of families, students, teachers, school administrators, paraprofessionals, support staff, and community members must play throughout the search process"; and Resolution No. 210790, entitled a "Resolution condemning the inhumane Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 Haitian migrants at the border and urging the Biden administration to immediately suspend all deportations of Haitians, expedite the release of Haitian immigrants held in U.S. immigration facilities, uphold the right to seek asylum, and ensure a clean pathway to citizenship for essential workers, Dreamers, Temporary Protected Status holders, and their families in all economic recovery legislation including through budget reconciliation"; and Resolution No. 210791, entitled a "Resolution also naming the 5200 block of West Berks Street as 'Charles 'Chucky' Rainey, Jr., Way,' in honor of Charles Rainey, Jr., to commemorate his legacy as the 'Ambassador of Wynnefield' and long-time dedication to the residents of the Wynnefield neighborhood of Philadelphia"; and Resolution No. 210793, entitled a "Resolution recognizing and honoring the contributions of Dorothy Bolden to Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 Domestic Workers Alliance, labor organizing, and advocacy for workers' rights; and further proclaiming October 13th as 'Dorothy Bolden Day' in the City of Philadelphia"; and Resolution No. 210794, entitled a "Resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank deeds conveying title to certain properties located in the Third Councilmanic District pursuant to the requirements of the Commonwealth Land Bank Act"; and Resolution No. 210796, entitled a "Resolution honoring and congratulating Champion of the Week, Julia R. Masterman's Boys Tennis team, on their successful 2021 season and finishing second in the PIAA 2A State Playoffs"; and Resolution No. 210797, entitled a "Resolution proclaiming October 7, 2021, as William Still Day in the City of Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 honor of what would have been his 200th Birthday."
Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Decker. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker for a motion to adopt each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and seconded that each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda be adopted. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 10/7/21 - STATED - 2ND READING ayes have it, and each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda have been adopted. We will now consider the bills and resolutions on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker, before we call for a motion, just read the title of Resolution No. 210787.
A resolution recognizing and honoring Erin O'Brien-Hoffmann for receiving a 2021 Tradeswomen Heroes Award from the National Association of Building Trades Unions.
Thank you. I'm going to recognize Councilwoman Gilmore Richardson and then recognize her for a motion on that particular resolution.
Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. Today, colleagues, I ask for Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 10/7/21 - STATED - 2ND READING your support for Resolution 210787 recognizing and congratulating Erin O'Brien-Hoffmann for receiving a 2021 Tradeswomen Heroes Award from the National Association of Building Trades Unions. I want to thank all of my colleagues who co-sponsored this resolution, including Councilmember Henon, Jones, Thomas, Brooks, Parker, and Domb. As you can see in the resolution, Erin is simply incredible. She's a working mom who not only gets the job done, she also donates her time to training, mentoring other women in the trades, and advocating strongly for the benefits of labor unions. Erin is a proud journey worker with International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, Local 2011. I am so thrilled to honor Erin and all of her exemplary accomplishments, but I also wanted to take a moment to take a page Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 10/7/21 - STATED - 2ND READING out of her book and talk about why more women should join the trade. There are many paths for women that lead to higher-paying, family-supporting and sustaining work without having to take on debt for advanced degrees, and that's something I know very, very well. Fewer than 10 percent of women go into non-traditional careers, but these careers provide paid workforce training, benefits, and guaranteed employment opportunities. If you're a woman interested in joining the trades, I urge you to visit philaworks.org/winc and get connected to Women in Nontraditional Careers, an amazing initiative that can help you better understand and prepare for all of those incredible opportunities. You can also view my apprenticeship guidebook, which is available on PHLCouncil.com. It is a one-stop resource for learning about Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 10/7/21 - STATED - 2ND READING opportunities in the trades here in the City of Philadelphia. And the goal of the guidebook is to really help demystify the application process for people who may never see themselves in the trades. Also, tomorrow you can join my office for our Labor Friday Program with the Operating Engineers, Local 542. We will stream the program live, so follow us an Facebook @CouncilmemberKatherineGilmoreRichardson. I know you all have heard me talk about this many, many times before, but creating strong pipelines to family-supporting and sustaining careers is crucial to growing our local economy, reducing poverty and gun violence, and creating more opportunities for Philadelphians. I want to congratulate Erin for being nationally recognized by the National Association of Building Trades Unions, and I humbly ask you, colleagues, for your support. Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 10/7/21 - STATED - 2ND READING Thank you very much, Mr. President.
Mr. President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted. And we look forward to the day when this is no longer a non-traditional job for women. Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Resolution No. 210795. Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 10/7/21 - STATED - 2ND READING
A resolution congratulating and honoring the Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander School for being recognized by the United States Department of Education as a 2021 National Blue Ribbon School.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gauthier for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Council President. First, I just wanted to offer another congratulations to the kids and parents and staff at Penn Alexander. With that, Council President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It's been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor indicate by saying aye. Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 10/7/21 - STATED - 2ND READING (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill No. 210636.
An ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code," to clarify the appropriate methods and circumstances of enforcement of traffic violations in order to provide for the fair and transparent administration of the traffic violations, prevent racial disparities, and protect public safety, and making technical changes.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Thomas for an amendment to Bill No. 210636. Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 10/7/21 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you, Council President. I would like to offer an amendment to Bill No. 210636. A copy of the amendment has been circulated to all members of Council, and I move forward with the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. All in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and Bill No. 210636 has been amended. Bill No. 210636, as amended, will be placed on our Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. Mr. Decker, do you have any additional resolutions?
A resolution Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 10/7/21 - STATED - 2ND READING recognizing and honoring the United Age Group Track Club Association for its dedication to the development of young track and field athletes; and further authorizing the Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs to hold public hearings on the state of track facilities in the City of Philadelphia, introduced by Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I swiftly move for the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been swiftly moved and seconded. All in favor of the motion signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The Meeting Stated October 7, 2021 10/7/21 - STATED - 2ND READING ayes have it, and that resolution is adopted.
And a resolution authorizing the Committee on Education to hold hearings on the procurement, contracting and management processes of the School District of Philadelphia for student busing to establish what if any errors, omissions or lessons learned can be derived from the systematic failure of contracted busing to deliver students on time and ready to learn, introduced by Councilman Thomas.
Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)