COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, March 12, 2009 10:00 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 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 welcomes Reverend Alexander Masluk, Pastor of St. Martha Roman Catholic Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman O'Neill. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Let us remember the holy presence of God and let us adore His divine majesty. Blessed are you, Lord God, of all creation. You alone are the author of all liberty, the giver of all rights. Over two centuries ago in this very city, not far from this gathering place, you fathers to recognize that human rights come not from acts of legislation or the consent of the government, but from you in the very act of creating the human race. Your hand guided these brave patriots as they affixed their names to a document which proclaimed that life, liberty and the pursuant of happiness are among these inalienable rights. In this present day, when the pursuit of happiness is thwarted by economic obstacles, when liberty is mistaken for self-serving license, and the very right to life is under attack, we humbly come to you and ask that you bestow your wisdom upon the members of this City Council. May they rise above partisanship to pursue the common good, without thought of personal gain or profit. May they defend the rights of the weakest members of society, the ones who have no other advocates except for May they remain open to the promptings of your spirit so that all their decisions will be in accord with your holy word and, therefore, marvel and upright. And may all of their actions thus sanctified and consecrated by your grace be reminders of your command that every burden be lifted and every obstacle to justice and peace be removed so that our society may be a small earthly foretaste of that eternal kingdom of peace where you live and reign forever and ever. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks Pastor Masluk for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
I'm sorry. Those having conversations, please do so in the corridor. The noise level is much too high. We're trying to Thank you. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 5, 2009, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 5, 2009 stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 5, 2009 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.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
Thank you. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers 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 We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who will present a resolution commemorating the 150th Anniversary of the founding of the Philadelphia Zoo. Will Mr. Vic DeWan and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see the Councilwoman is being joined by Councilwoman Miller, Councilman Rizzo and Councilman Green. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you very much, Councilwoman. Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, you're due here with us, too. Thank you. Good morning. Resolution commemorating the 150th Anniversary of the founding of the Philadelphia Zoo: America's First Zoo. Whereas, Dr. William Camac, a legendary Philadelphia physician, led a concerned community group of citizens, educators and scientists to charter the Zoological Society of Philadelphia America's First Zoo - on March 21, 1859 and house it on a bucolic, 44-acre property in Fairmount Park along the West Bank of the Schuylkill River; and
Whereas, the Philadelphia Zoo has emerged over the past century as a national and global treasure and as one of Philadelphia's most cherished, enduring and significant educational, scientific, conservation institutions and cultural attractions; and Whereas, the Philadelphia Zoo was the site for breakthrough research that led to the award of the 1976 Nobel Prize for Medicine; and
Whereas, the Philadelphia Zoo has, from its inception, acted consistently and successfully to protect, promote and preserve, through its myriad research and curatorial activities, numerous rare and endangered wildlife around the world; and Whereas, the Philadelphia Zoo has welcomed more than 100 million visitors, including millions of school children from the greater Philadelphia community over generations, since its landmark gates opened to the general public; and
Whereas, the Philadelphia Zoo's celebration of a sesquicentennial on March 21, 2009 is an achievement of historic proportions for Philadelphia, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the United States of America and the world's conservation community. Now, therefore, be it resolved, that the City of Philadelphia hereby commemorates March 21, '09 as Philadelphia Zoo Day; and
Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Philadelphia Zoo as a sincere expression of City Council's appreciation and recognition of the Philadelphia Zoo on the occasion of its 150th Anniversary. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 26th day of February 2009. Introduced by Councilwoman Jannie L. Blackwell. Signed by President Council Anna C. Verna and sponsored by all the members of the Philadelphia City Council. (Applause.)
Before they come forward to make remarks, let me give a special thank-you for all that Vic DeWan and Ken Woodson and the entire Zoo family does. As many of you know, because we invite you every year, we even have Echoes of Africa. You know we have the Mayor's Commission on African and meets the second Wednesday of every month, and we have A Day At the Zoo. That's how far we've come. It makes a big difference for people who come from all over the world, from Africa and the Caribbean, and is just an example of the partnership that the Zoo has with us in our neighborhoods, and we couldn't have it without the excellent and committed leadership and caring leadership we have there. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Mr. DeWan for brief remarks. MR. DeWAN: Thank you very much, Madam Chairperson. Councilwoman Blackwell, Councilman Rizzo, Councilman Green, Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown and Councilwoman Miller, thank you so much, and all honored Councilpersons. Together Calvert, our Board Chair, it's my privilege to accept this resolution on behalf of America's First Zoo. 2009 is a momentous year celebrating our 150th Anniversary. As Councilwoman Blackwell read, March 21, 1859 America's First Zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo, was chartered, took a group of courageous citizens to have a vision for a world-class institution. Today I accept this resolution on behalf of the teachers, the school children that visit the Philadelphia Zoo every year, every day. We have over 200,000 school children that visit the Zoo every year, 80,000 of whom are from Title I schools and visit the Zoo under grant-funded programs. 2 million visitors at the Zoo every year. We've also been an economic engine for this region, in the past four years alone contributing over $80 million of economic activity to our great region in the formation of world-class exhibits through Bank of America Big Cat Falls and on May 30th the opening of our McNeil Avian Center. During these economically challenging times, we offer unique and safe learning classroom for everybody and for the future, and that future being our young men and women of the Philadelphia region. We cherish our relationship with our great city, the neighborhoods and the families, and together with the work that we do around the world, we intend not only to celebrate our birthday with the entire region, but to give back through gifts of gratitude that we will be doing. We feel the same economic pressures as others do, but we're determined to even more vital, more relevant and even more urgent. Madam Chairperson, Councilwoman Blackwell and other Councilmembers, thank you for your kind and generous words. I gratefully accept this resolution today. Thank you. ) UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: Thank you, Madam Chairperson, Councilwoman Blackwell and all honored members of this honored Council. Today marks a very proud moment in the history of the Philadelphia Zoo. Since the mid 1800s, the Zoo has emerged as a national and global treasure, one of Philadelphia's most treasured, enduring and significant educational, scientific and conservation institutions and cultural attractions. The Philadelphia Zoo truly brings the world to Philadelphia. The Zoo has many important programs. The Zoo is committed to zoology, conservation and the natural world for deserving youth with our award-winning Junior Zoo Apprentice program. This incredible program takes pride in providing select economically challenged students throughout the region with opportunities for career exploration, self-discovery, personal development, community and conservation service. In addition, our community outreach program, Zoo on Wheels -- we have a couple of members of that program here today -- reaches children with up-close animal encounters, which enables young people to see and experience the living world in ways that spark the imagination, creating the next generation of environmental stewards who will advance discovery of our natural world and keep the animal inhabitants thriving. Moreover, we continue to lead efforts in conservation at the Zoo, in the Philadelphia's beautiful Fairmount Park, as well as on the island of Borneo, with our award-winning Footprints, carbon offset program. Through each of these programs and more, America's First Zoo reinforces its place and its responsibility to educate people about the living world in which we reside, one person and one animal at a time.
We sincerely look forward to celebrating our 150th Anniversary of the Philadelphia Zoo, America's First Zoo, and we welcome all members of this body, as well as all of the citizens of our region, to join us in our sesquicentennial year. Thank you. )
The Chair now recognizes Councilman O'Neill, who will present a resolution honoring the Tyrone Society of Philadelphia on Mr. Joseph Trainor and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium.
Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to ask Councilman Kenney, Councilman Kelly and Councilman Green to join me in making the presentation.
Thank you, Madam President. It's a resolution honoring the Tyrone Society of Philadelphia on their Centennial Anniversary. Whereas, the City Council of Philadelphia is pleased to honor and recognize the Tyrone Society of Philadelphia on the centennial anniversary of this most distinguished organization; and Whereas, the Tyrone Society of Philadelphia was founded in 1909 as a means for immigrants to stay in contact with each other and to help with employment, housing and other social issues; and
Whereas, for 100 years, the Society has been privileged to have had the opportunity to help individuals and families in the Greater Philadelphia area; and Whereas, the Society has contributed to numerous charitable organizations, including the Philadelphia Immigrant Center, the Famine Memorial Fund and the Ronald McDonald House; and
Whereas, the Society has also supported the disadvantaged around the world, including the Kosovo Relief Fund, the Famine Relief Fund in Somalia and, most recently, an orphanage in El Salvador; and Whereas, the Society strives to preserve Celtic culture by supporting Irish dance, language and sporting organizations;
And whereas, the Society is proud of its support of the families of political prisoners in Ireland and pledges its support to the continuing peace process in Ireland; and Whereas, this year the Society celebrates its centennial with various events throughout the region, including a gala on April 18th at the Irish Center in Mount Airy; and
Resolved, that the City Council of Philadelphia recognizes and honors the Tyrone Society of Philadelphia on its Centennial Anniversary. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the representatives of the Tyrone Society of Philadelphia as evidence of the sincere sentiment of this legislative body. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the the 6th day of February 2009. It's signed by Anna C. Verna, President of City Council, and co-sponsored by all Councilmembers. (Applause.)
On behalf of the Tyrone Society in Philadelphia, I would like to thank Brian O'Neill, Councilman Brian O'Neill, for sponsoring the bill, also Councilmen Jack Kelly, Bill Green, Jim Kenney, President Verna and all the Councilmembers, our friend Billy Ivers and Michael Bradley. I thank you very much. (Applause.)
Happy St. Patty's Day. We can now stand at ease. (Council at ease.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Brown, who will present a resolution honoring tireless dedication to improving the lives of Afghan women. Will Ms. Pakzad and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. Councilwoman Brown is being joined by Councilwoman Tasco, Councilwoman Miller and Councilwoman Sanchez, also Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, on this occasion of the national celebration of Women's History Month, we had the enormous, unique opportunity to celebrate an ordinary woman who in Afghanistan has mounted extraordinary odds against those in that region, and it was several weeks ago when my former classmate from Penn State, former President of the class from Penn State, Dennis George, gave me a call to say our guest is going to be in the country and would we do the honor of lifting her up and acknowledging her work is really, really, really a pleasure and an honor, and I thank you, Dennis George. Thank you. So we have with us a woman who has a lot of courage, quite frankly. In 1998, she organized an organization in Afghanistan during the oppressive rule of the Taliban, and today we're going to honor Suraya Pakzad for her tireless dedication to improving the lives of Afghan women. Honoring Suraya Pakzad for her tireless dedication to improving the lives of Afghan women. Whereas, Afghan women have bravely stood up to discrimination; and
Whereas, women in Afghanistan suffer from inhumane treatment which they cannot face alone; and Whereas, Suraya Pakzad is the Founder and Executive Director of the Voice of Women Organization, that's VWO; and
Whereas, Ms. Pakzad courageously risked her life by starting VWO in secret during the Taliban's oppressive rule; and Whereas, today Ms. Pakzad helps women openly win elections and start successful careers in public service; and
Whereas, she supports programs in prison for women and their children; and Whereas, she creates education centers, health centers, food centers, business development centers and legal clinics for women; and
Whereas, Afghanistan will never truly prosper without the contributions of its female population. Now, therefore, be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor and commend Suraya Pakzad for her commitment to the betterment of Afghan women.
Be it engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Ms. Pakzad as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the City Council on the 26th day of February 2009. Introduced by Blondell Reynolds Brown, supported and sponsored by all the members of the Philadelphia City Council. (Applause.)
Thanks. Please let me to express my warm regards from the bottom of my heart and the regards from the woman of Afghanistan to you and to all people of this beautiful city, Philadelphia. And let me to thank the City of Philadelphia and its wonderful people, the City Council and the City Councilwoman, Ms. Blondell, and her group for their recognition in my work, what Let me too offer my special thanks for Mr. Dennis George for his recommendation, and also I have to express my -- offer my special thanks to my American friends, who is the Director of Traveling Mercy, with his partnership with Voice of Women Organization, Mr. Arthur Margozini and his wife, Anna Margozini, for their warm hospitality and helping me for today be here. And I'm really honored, and thanks everybody. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President. Today I ask us to welcome some young people from City Year. They are the Comcast Team serving at University City High School in West Philadelphia. There are 250 students college and career -- they reached through a college and career fair on December 17th. One hundred and forty-nine students participated in the team's Report Card conferences. The team reaches over 300 students through academic support and tutoring. Over 50 teachers and staff members attended their appreciation breakfast that this team hosted in December, and they engaged students in three after-school programs. They engaged them. The programs include a hip hop club, a women's empowerment group and a program dedicated to conflict resolution and leadership development. They are Susan, 22, from Chicago, Illinois; Andrew, 24, from Dallas, Texas -- I hope they'll stand as we mention their names -- Christina, 22, from Philadelphia; Jamie, 21, from Annapolis; Ivory, 21, from Philadelphia; Zeppy, 19, from New Jersey; and Adam Krantz, who is the Project Manager. those of you who can to stay a little bit after City Council to speak to them if you have the time. Thank you, Madam President. (Applause.)
Welcome. Welcome. 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 and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on March 9th and March 11th, 2009, I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its session on March 5th, 2009; and I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution approving the redevelopment of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the 44th and Aspen Urban Renewal Area; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Mantua Urban Renewal Area; and An ordinance amending Section 22-311 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Cost-of-Living Measures for Retirees, Beneficiaries and Survivors," by amending the provisions governing when deposits are made into the Pension Adjustment Fund, all under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Employees Retirement Code," by amending Section 22-310, entitled "Deferred Retirement Option Plan," by revising the interest rate applied to DROP account balances, under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and at this time the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Public Property to hold public hearings to explore creating an independent and non-partisan commission to create a detailed inventory of public property and make non-binding recommendations for the potential closures of City buildings.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a motion.
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 say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce three resolutions, one of which is co-sponsored by all members of Council.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the 44th and Aspen Urban Renewal Area.
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 signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Mantua Urban Renewal Area.
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 honoring and recognizing One Day At a Time for 25 years of dedicated service to the prevention of drug abuse.
Again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
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 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 installation of all-way stop signs at the intersection of Jackson Street and Higbee Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer one resolution on your behalf and two bills by request.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Section 22-311 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Cost-of-Living Measures for Retirees, Beneficiaries and Survivors," by amending the provisions governing when deposits are made into the Pension Adjustment Fund.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Employees Retirement Code," by amending Section 22-310, entitled "Deferred Retirement Option Plan," by revising the interest rate applied to DROP account balances.
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 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 two resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution proclaiming March 2009 as "Deaf History Month."
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 12th and 13th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
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 Sanchez.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution and one bill co-sponsored by Councilmembers DiCicco, Goode, Krajewski, Jones and Kelly.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of a proposal to adopt a tax on real property dedicated for the sole purpose of funding public libraries; fixing the date of a special election for such purpose; prescribing the form of the ballot question to be voted on.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Committee on Streets and Services to hold hearings to investigate the benefits and feasibility of either temporary or permanently closing certain city streets to vehicle traffic in cooperation with local business in order to help boost retail and restaurant sales in Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. Approving the truism that there's no monopoly on good ideas, I would like to note for the record that since circulating this resolution, the Chair of Streets and Services, Councilman DiCicco -- I've learned that the Chair of Streets and Services, Councilman DiCicco, and Councilman Kenney have been actively investigating street-closing ideas, and I would welcome the opportunity to work with them on this issue. 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, the resolution is adopted, and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Good morning, Madam President. No bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-1400, entitled "Parking and Loading Facilities," by adding a new subsection providing for bicycle parking, under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," to prohibit the transfer of special approvals provided by the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one bill and one resolution.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance renaming and designating the park located at the intersection of Germantown Avenue, York Street and North 8th Street as the "Danny Boyle Community Park."
The 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 32nd Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a motion on his resolution.
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 Kelly.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution honoring, commending and thanking St. Timothy's Episcopal Church on the occasion of its 150th Anniversary.
Madam President, I move for the adoption of this 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 next order of business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Rules reports out one bill with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 080954, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Broad Street, 15th Street, Oxford Street and Cecil B. Moore Avenue, and by amending Section 14-1620 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Avenue of the Arts North Special District Controls,' all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 080954. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries, and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Again, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a motion concerning Bill No. 090166.
Thank you, Madam President. Bill No. 090166, entitled "An ordinance to amend the changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Front Street, Oregon Avenue, the Delaware River and Railroad Right-of-Way, also known as the Northern Boundary of the Philadelphia Naval Base," was referred to the Committee on Rules. At the request of the sponsor, I move that Bill No. 090166 be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries, and Bill No. 090166 has been withdrawn. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the
Madam President, the Committee on Finance 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 Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 090007, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 19-203 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Payroll Deductions,' to add the Friends of the Free Library Philadelphia to the list of designated payees to whom an employee may direct payroll deductions, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 090007. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I would note for the record that the bills just reported from committee with suspension of the rules have been deemed 3/12/09 - STATED - 2ND READING to have had a first reading and they will not be read a second time. Instead, they will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. There are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar. Therefore, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for the purpose of calling up bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Madam President. Bill Nos. 090003, 090095 and Resolution 090173 are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today. All other bills are being held.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 090003.
An ordinance authorizing the extension of the extended trial program authorized by Bill No. 3/12/09 - STATED - 2ND READING 060799 under which advance approval is given to the Philadelphia Facilities Management Corporation on behalf of the Philadelphia Gas Works, subject to 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, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 090095.
An ordinance amending Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Contracts and Procurement," by creating new requirements relating to the submission of an Economic Opportunity Plan.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill 3/12/09 - STATED - 2ND READING 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 Resolution No. 090173.
Resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Point Breeze East Urban Renewal Area.
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 (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. 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 Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. As we anxiously anticipate the state of our city's address by our Mayor, we look at some difficult decisions ahead by way of our operating departments. As 10, 20 and possibly 30 percent cuts, it is important that we not forget the capital side of this budget, that in fact we've done a good job as a municipality trying to get in position for the stimulus package that is coming from Washington, that we've done a yeoman's job of preparing certain capital projects so that we could fit within the federal timeframe of taking advantage of them. But our work is yet undone. It's important that we, from the federal government perspective, have bailed out Wall Street. It's important that we continue to bail out Main Street, but what we have as a task before us in this Council is to bail out my street, which is our neighborhoods around the City. And I would urge us to take very active participation in Resolution 090178, which empowers the Fiscal Stability Committee to take a look at what we're doing line by line, point by point to maximize businesses and maximize job creation to individuals from neighborhoods. Likewise, I would urge us to have a hearing scheduled for Resolution 080959, which examines the Water Department and its upcoming contracts, of which they are in the millions and possibility even a half a billion dollars. As we look at that, each one of these contracts that are eligible for stimulus money allows us to free up needed capital money to do other needed things for our city and its infrastructure. So I would encourage us to participate in this, but not from an engineer's eyes only, from getting from Point A to Point B, but also how do we get from job creation to tax revenues generated for the City of Philadelphia, because at the end of the day, we can't count our way out of paperclips to get out of this recession. The only way we recession is build, baby, build. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I rise again and I'll pass out flyers again with Montel Williams on it. We are still every Thursday -- we have been and will be -right out in front of between Councilman Jones' office and mine with this prescription assistance program. It's called Partnership for Prescription Assistance. So we invite you to still come or your people who may come to your offices who need help with prescriptions, who need free prescriptions, because some they get for three months, some they get for longer periods of time. These are companies who donate medicine so that those in need can get them. to take advantage of this opportunity. They have a bus also that they can bring to park somewhere in your community. So you can also reserve the bus. So we've been dealing with it, I don't know, since before Christmas, maybe last spring, and we invite you all to take advantage of this needed service. And, finally, let me thank Councilman Kelly for the wonderful Irish potatoes, our wonderful sweets. And if Lou were alive, Lou would challenge everybody. I haven't been to Ireland four times, but I've been there twice. So he would challenge everybody to match that record. Thank you.
Thank you. Are there any other speeches on the part of the majority? (No response.)
none, the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, before I make the motion, I just would like to say that my Legislative Assistant has informed us that Monday is the deadline to submit your recommendations for the fiscal stability hearing. So I'm asking all Councilmembers, whatever you have relating to fiscal stability as per the resolution, we're asking you get it in by Monday, because we must issue the document next week prior to the hearing that you've called for us to put together. One other thing. I just would like to real quickly concur with Councilman Jones, particularly with respect to his "drill, baby, drill" statement. I think it's important, because the reality is the City of Philadelphia, based on the stimulus program, will receive probably more than $150 million in this next fiscal year as a result of the stimulus program. So it's very important, particularly as it relates to construction, because the reality is the construction has the broadest implication as it relates to the number of trades opportunities for people in the City of Philadelphia, in addition to which as it relates to building revenue, you have a multiplier, because first you purchase the materials, then you build a house, which obviously creates wage taxes and provides jobs, then you sell the house, which obviously creates recording fees, transfer taxes, and somewhere down the line those people actually start paying real taxes once the ten-year tax abatement burns off. So I would just like to concur with Councilman Jones, that it is very important that we get this right the first time out. that, Madam President, I make a motion that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, March 19th, 2009, 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, March 19th at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. Thank you. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 11:00 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 March 12, 2009, 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.)