civus
Minutes

Stated Meeting, May 25, 2006

Philadelphia City CouncilMay 25, 2006

People mentioned

Names our system found in this transcript. Automatically extracted, so it can include anyone named in the record, not only officials or parties.

Organizations mentioned

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 25, 2006 10:30 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN JUAN RAMOS 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

Council President Verna

Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come to convene today's Council session. I would like to announce that an Executive Session of Council will be held in the Caucus Room for the purpose of consulting with our attorneys on Act 39, which is take-out beer permit appeals. Council will reconvene immediately at the conclusion of that Executive Session. It should not take us any more than five or ten minutes. So if you'll bear with us, we should be back in about five or ten minutes. Thank you. (Short recess.)

Council President Verna

I note that a quorum of this Council is present. This Council session shall now reconvene and the Council will come to order. Members will take their seats and visitors will retire to the seats outside our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Reverend Jacqueline Lyle of the Mount Sinai Tabernacle Baptist Church. She is here today as the guest of Councilman Clarke. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Everyone rises.)

Reverend Lyle

If you will please bow your heads. Lord God, we thank you. We thank you for being a gracious God. We thank you and we ask that you will come quickly and shine your face upon us. We thank you for the fact that we can come and have this meeting today in this building. We thank you for all of the City employees' safety from the fire yesterday. Lord God, we pray and we thank you for all the City leaders present here. We pray, Dear Lord, that you would do a new thing. We know you're not only revolutionary, and we pray that you would do something that would show equity and unity between the unions and the non-unions, between the rich and the poor, between male and female, between black and white. This is our prayer this morning, Dear Lord, and we ask that you bless us all. In the name of Jesus, amen.

Council President Verna

Amen. The Chair thanks Reverend Lyle for her very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

Council President Verna

The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 18, 2006, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

Councilwoman Blackwell

Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 18, 2006 stand approved.

Council President Verna

Do I second? (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 18, 2006 stand approved. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Verna

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The ayes have it and the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 18, 2006 is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

Councilwoman Blackwell

Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the Majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence.

Council President Verna

The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.

Councilman O'Neill

Madam President, on behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.

Council President Verna

Thank you. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize 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 affairs of our City. We certainly invite you to come again. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Nutter, who will present a resolution declaring May 21st through May 27th as National Public Works Week. Conner, who is the Director of Public Works for Springfield, Montgomery County, and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. Please come up to the podium. Thank you. Councilman Nutter.

Councilman Nutter

Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, this is a resolution declaring the week of May 21st through May 27th, 2006 as National Public Works Week. Whereas, the public works infrastructure, facilities and services are of vital importance to the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Philadelphia; and Whereas, such facilities and services could not be provided without the dedicated efforts of public works professionals, engineers and administrators from all levels of for designing, building, operating and maintaining transportation, water supply, sewage and refuse disposal systems, public buildings and other infrastructures and facilities essential to serve our citizens; and Whereas, in 1932, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter of public works employees was formed, and this founding chapter led to the creation of similar chapters and ultimately the American Public Works Association, which now consists of approximately 20,000 members across the country; and Whereas, it is in the public interest for all citizens and civic leaders of this country to learn about the array of facilities and services provided through the public works infrastructure. Now, therefore resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby declare the week of May 21st 27th, 2006 as National Public Works Week and urge all citizens to join with the American Public Works Association in activities and ceremonies designed to pay tribute to our public works professionals, engineers and administrators for the substantial contributions they have made to our national health, safety and welfare. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Leonard Bernstein, the President of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Public Works Association, as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Signed by the Council President, introduced by myself, co-sponsored by all members of City Council. (Applause.)

Mr. Bernstein

Good morning. I'll only take a minute. Councilman Nutter, President Verna, it's my pleasure, Councilmembers, it's a pleasure to be here this morning. On behalf of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter of American Public Works, as their Vice-President, I just come to say thank you. Thank you for the recognition. It encompasses the five-county area. We are most appreciative of all the budget hearings, the budgets and the appropriations that make our lives what they are today. Thanks again. (Applause.)

Council President Verna

Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

Council President Verna

The Chair at this time recognizes Councilman Ramos, who will present a resolution recognizing May 25th as National Missing Children's Day. Will Mr. Herbert Jones and those accompanying him please join the Councilman Ramos is being joined by Councilwoman Blackwell and I see that Councilman Kelly is also joining them.

Councilman Ramos

Good morning, everyone. I am pleased and proud to present today's resolution to Mr. Jones and Ms. Colon from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and also family members who have gone through the pain of having someone missing and in some cases that person has been discovered deceased, a very tragic situation for many families in this region and throughout the country, and we have a few families who are here as well. I got involved in the fight to increase attention concerning the plight of families of missing persons. This started with the tragic case of Latoyia Figueroa last summer, a young pregnant West Philadelphia mother who went missing in July of last year and was eventually As a result of Latoyia's case, we found many other families who were suffering the same plight. Latoyia Byrd, whose cousin Kim Green is here with us here today with children from her grade school; Unisha Jefferson; Taneke Daniels. The names go on and on. Billy Borshell. I sponsored the City of Philadelphia's first-ever Missing Persons Awareness Conference on November 5th of last year. We brought together families of missing Philadelphia area people so they can publicize their missing loved ones and share their struggles and sorrow in finding them. In January of this year, the Committee on Public Safety held public hearings to investigate the policies and procedures of the City's Medical Examiner's office with regards to missing persons. The hearings resulted in great cooperation between the Medical Examiner's office and the Police $100,000 has been added to this year's Fiscal Year 2007 budget for the Medical Examiner's office and Police Department for the sole purpose of helping to identify missing persons. Today the Council of Philadelphia recognizes the National Missing Persons Children's Day in the City of Philadelphia on this day. Whereas, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, there are nearly 800,000 children missing each year; and Whereas, on average, there are 2,185 children reported missing to law enforcement agencies daily; and

Councilwoman Blackwell

Whereas, 58,200 of these children are victims of non-family abductions and more than 200,000 are victims of family abductions; and Whereas, from January 1st, 2006 to May 5th, 2006, there were 662 missing or abducted children in the City of Philadelphia; and Whereas, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children exists as a resource to help prevent child abduction and sexual exploitation; help find missing children; and assist victims of child abduction and sexual exploitation, their families and the professionals who serve them.

Councilman Kelly

Whereas, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has assisted law enforcement in the recovery of 96 percent of these cases; and Whereas, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children urges the participation of local government, law enforcement, schools, community-based organizations and families in the protection and education of all citizens about the threat of child abduction and sexual exploitation, appropriate protective measure and ways to respond and seek help from law enforcement and Whereas, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children participated in the City of Philadelphia's first Missing Persons Awareness Conference held on November 5, 2005; and

Councilman Ramos

Whereas, this special day is a time to remember those children, to give hope to their families and serve as a reminder that too many children remain among the missing. Now, therefore be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby recognize May 25, 2006 as National Missing Children's Day in the City of Philadelphia and encourage all citizens to take 25 minutes to teach a child important possibly life-saving safety tips. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to representatives of the and Exploited Children for continuing efforts to prevent the exploitation and abduction of children. Signed by Anna Verna, President of City Council, and all members of this body. Congratulations. (Applause.)

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Mr. Jones for remarks.

Mr. Jones

Thank you very much. Councilman, Councilpersons, I appreciate this opportunity to form a partnership in the City of Philadelphia. I must say that I'm sort of and do feel disheartened by coming before you representing an organization with the name such as the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. This is a travesty in a nation so rich with its heritage and with the heritage of protecting our children. And when we talk about 2,000 children that are reported missing each and every day, when 58,200 children who are abducted by strangers solely for the purpose of some sexual perverted activity, then we have a dirty little secret here that we must take care of. With the leadership that has been provided here by the City of Philadelphia, you have set the parameters there. You have set the stage here for other cities to follow. We appreciate this support. We will take this support to the National Conference of Mayors in other areas around the country to demonstrate and to show what Philadelphia is doing and what other cities can do also to challenge those out there who are wishing to bring our children harm. Thank you very much. (Applause.)

Council President Verna

Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

Council President Verna

The next order of business is communications. the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.

Chief Clerk

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on May 25, 2006, I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its session on May 11th; and I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority, the City of Philadelphia, of a portion of the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Urban Renewal Area; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to use NTI bond proceeds for the acquisition of 1917 Harlan Street; and A resolution designating the City of Philadelphia Planning Commission authority for the purpose of developing a redevelopment plan for the Philadelphia Memorial and the Germantown Veterans Memorial; and An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of the Budget in an amount not to exceed $1 million to assist in the construction of City-Wide Youth Mini Mall; and An ordinance authorizing the paving of Epiphany Place, under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located at 2501 to 2515 South Street; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia a deed located at 1328 Race Street; and An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 bounded by Broad Street, Race Street, 13th Street and Arch Street; and An ordinance authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, its successors and assigns, to construct, own and maintain an overbuild on 13th Street between Race Street and Arch Street, under certain terms and conditions.

Council President Verna

Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.

Chief Clerk

That's all I have, Madam President.

Council President Verna

The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.

Councilwoman Blackwell

Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended in order to permit the immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction.

Council President Verna

Thank you. Do I hear a second? (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Verna

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.

Councilman Kenney

Thank you, Madam President. I offer two resolutions.

Council President Verna

The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.

Chief Clerk

A resolution honoring the life of Judge Edward R. Becker.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.

Councilman Kenney

Madam President, I move the adoption of the resolution by a standing yes vote.

Council President Verna

Those standing will be voting in favor of the adoption of the resolution. (All Councilmembers standing.)

Council President Verna

The resolution has been adopted.

Chief Clerk

And a resolution celebrating the life and honoring the memory of Katherine Dunham.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.

Councilman Kenney

Thank you, Madam President. Again, I ask for a standing yes vote. I move for the adoption of the resolution.

Council President Verna

Those standing will be voting for the adoption of the resolution. (All Councilmembers standing.)

Council President Verna

The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

Councilwoman Blackwell

Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce one bill.

Council President Verna

The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.

Chief Clerk

An ordinance amending Chapter 21-1600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Housing Trust Fund," to require that all Philadelphia Housing Trust Fund dollars be appropriated and expended equally between each councilmanic district within the City of Philadelphia, all under certain terms and conditions.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski. Councilwoman Krajewski, do you have any bills or resolutions?

Councilwoman Krajewski

Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill.

Council President Verna

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.

Chief Clerk

An ordinance authorizing the owners of 7252 Marsden Street on the southwest corner of Cottman Avenue to construct, own and maintain an addition to the south public sidewalk of Cottman Avenue.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Councilwoman Tasco

Madam President, I offer three resolutions and one bill. I'd like to speak on one resolution, please.

Council President Verna

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill. Councilwoman, I understand there are four resolutions, there's not a bill.

Councilwoman Tasco

Four, right. I'm sorry.

Council President Verna

The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.

Chief Clerk

A resolution urging the Pennsylvania General Assembly to pass Senate Bill 1069 called the Innocence Commission Act which will establish the Innocence Commission of Pennsylvania, which will study, develop and establish law and public policy to prevent wrongful convictions of innocent citizens in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Councilwoman Tasco

I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It's been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Verna

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted.

Chief Clerk

And a resolution authorizing the Council Committee of the Whole to hold hearings on the malfunction of hundreds of voting machines during the primary election of May 16, 2006.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Councilwoman Tasco

Madam President, I move for the adoption. I'd like to speak on the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Councilwoman Tasco

Just briefly to my colleagues, we'd like to discuss what happened on May 16th during the election. As you know, there were many, many voting machines that broke down and there were other extenuating circumstances associated with those breakdowns that I've heard, and I'd like for us just to have a public discussion about the machines, what happened, what might need to be done to correct the problem and what supportive services does the City need to provide so that the Commissioners can do their job. Thank you.

Council President Verna

It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)

Council President Verna

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted.

Chief Clerk

And a resolution authorizing the Council Committee on Public Health and Human Services to hold hearings regarding the Quality Jobs of Quality Homecare Campaign and further authorizing the Committee to seek advice and recommendations on how to increase the quality of home caregivers.

Council President Verna

The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Councilwoman Tasco

Thank you, Madam President. I forgot to say that this resolution is co-sponsored along with Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, and I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)

Council President Verna

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The ayes have it and the resolution will be referred to the Committee on Public Health and Human Services.

Chief Clerk

And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 42nd Ward of the City of Philadelphia.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Councilwoman Tasco

Madam President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Councilwoman Tasco

Madam President, I'd like to request a leave to Council to go on Council business, and I'd like to leave my vote on all resolutions and -

Council President Verna

If we can just vote on your resolution for the moment.

Councilwoman Tasco

Okay.

Council President Verna

It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)

Council President Verna

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Councilwoman Tasco.

Councilwoman Tasco

Madam President, I leave Council for Council business. I'd like to be recorded as voting on all resolutions and bills, with the exception of Bill 060089, 060090. Thank you.

Council President Verna

Thank you. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.

Councilwoman Miller

Thank you, Madam President. Today I have one resolution.

Council President Verna

The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.

Chief Clerk

A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 13th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.

Councilwoman Miller

I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)

Council President Verna

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.

Councilman Nutter

Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and one resolution.

Council President Verna

The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.

Chief Clerk

An ordinance authorizing the paving of Epiphany Place, under certain terms and conditions.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Chief Clerk

And a resolution authorizing the Committee of the Whole to initiate the development of an operational and management strategic plan for the criminal justice system in Philadelphia for the purpose of evaluating criminal justice procedures.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.

Councilman Nutter

Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)

Council President Verna

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The ayes have it and the resolution will be referred to the Committee of the Whole. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.

Councilwoman Brown

Thank you, Madam Chair. No bills or resolutions today.

Council President Verna

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.

Councilman Goode

Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill.

Council President Verna

The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.

Chief Clerk

An ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "City Funds Deposits, Investments, Disbursements," by amending certain requirements of the City depositories, all under certain terms and conditions.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.

Councilman Ramos

Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions today.

Council President Verna

The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer three bills, which are co-signed by my colleague, Councilman Nutter.

Council President Verna

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.

Chief Clerk

An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located at 1328 Race Street.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Chief Clerk

And an ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 bounded by Broad Street, Race Street, 13th Street and Arch Street.

Council President Verna

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Chief Clerk

And an ordinance authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, its successors and assigns, to construct, own and maintain an overbuild on 13th Street between Race and Arch Street.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee, and the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.

Councilman O'Neill

Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions.

Council President Verna

The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke. Is he in the room? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.

Councilman Kelly

Yes. Madam President, I offer one resolution and one bill, and I would like to speak on the resolution.

Council President Verna

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.

Chief Clerk

An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions," by prohibiting the sale of foie gras in the City of Philadelphia and providing penalties for violations, under certain terms and conditions.

Council President Verna

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Chief Clerk

And a resolution beseeching the 108th United States Congress of the Senatorial and Congressional Representatives of the City of Philadelphia to support Resolution No. 407 introduced by Congressman Fitzpatrick and Congresswoman Schwartz condemning the decision of St. Denis, France to name a street in honor of Mumia Abu-Jamal, the convicted murderer of Police Officer Danny Faulkner.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.

Councilman Kelly

Madam President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Verna

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.

Councilman Kelly

Madam President.

Council President Verna

I'm so sorry. You did want to speak on that.

Councilman Kelly

Yes. I'd like to speak on the resolution, if I may.

Council President Verna

Please do.

Councilman Kelly

First of all, I would like to commend Congressman Fitzpatrick and Congresswoman Schwartz for taking the action in Congress that they did in protesting the honoring of a person who was convicted of killing a Philadelphia police officer named Danny Faulkner. I don't know what was on their minds. I don't know the people from Sondani, whether it was sheer arrogance, ignorance or stupidity, and maybe it's a combination or maybe it's all of them, but I think it's something that the French government has to be responsible for. And I would like to believe that it's only a very, very few people in France that feel that way. I would like to believe that the majority of French people, men and women, are just as horrified and outraged as we are in Philadelphia over the honoring of such a person. I would just like to say that you have to say it's still the responsibility of France. It's their responsibility to, I think, make amends, to take direct action into removing the sign, and also I think they have to apologize, send a public apology to the Faulkner family, the Police Department of Philadelphia, the District Attorney and the First Judicial District of Philadelphia. I think all of them were slandered by their actions. And I would like to say that if they want to improve relations with this City and this government, I think they should take direct steps into removing that sign and removing the blight from their country. Thank you.

Council President Verna

You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.

Councilman Clarke

Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I offer three bills, two resolutions, one bill and one resolution co-sponsored by Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown.

Council President Verna

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.

Chief Clerk

An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application in an amount not to exceed $1 million to assist in the development of City-Wide Youth Mini Mall.

Council President Verna

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Chief Clerk

And an ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia for the proposal set forth in a resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter relating to the appointment of the members of the Fairmount Park Commission.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Chief Clerk

And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2007 within the Housing Trust Fund from certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions.

Council President Verna

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. (Applause.)

Council President Verna

The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.

Chief Clerk

A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter relating to the appointment of the members of the Fairmount Park Commission.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.

Councilman Clarke

That resolution should be referred.

Council President Verna

I beg your pardon?

Councilman Clarke

That resolution should be referred.

Council President Verna

I'm sorry. That resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Chief Clerk

And a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to use NTI bond proceeds for the acquisition of 1917 Harlan Street, under certain terms and conditions.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.

Councilman Clarke

I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Verna

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.

Councilman Rizzo

Madam President, one resolution today.

Council President Verna

The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.

Chief Clerk

A resolution recognizing, honoring and celebrating Alex Maratea for her heroism in the face of danger, rescuing her three-week-old nephew after his stroller fell onto the tracks of SEPTA's El train.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly. I'm sorry. We are trying to rush this through; are we not? The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.

Councilman Rizzo

I think she's suggesting that the republicans are -

Council President Verna

You all look alike to me; that's all.

Councilman Rizzo

That's right. I move for the adoption of that resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. please say aye. (Aye.)

Council President Verna

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a report from the Committee on Rules.

Councilman Clarke

Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, the Committee on Rules reports six bills with a favorable recommendation.

Council President Verna

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.

Chief Clerk

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to No. 050268, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, relating to 'Zoning and Planning,' by amending Chapter 14-500, entitled "Industrial Districts"; and Bill No. 060205, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code by adding a new section, entitled "Off-Street Parking Control District"; and Bill No. 060263, 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 Bridge Street and the Frankford Creek"; and Bill No. 060285, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land"; and Bill No. 060288, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Roberts Avenue and Henry Avenue"; and Bill No. 060313, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 14-1619 of The Philadelphia Zoning Code, entitled 'Frankford Avenue Special District Controls,' by adding parking requirements for the district, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.

Council President Verna

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.

Councilman Clarke

Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 050268, 060205, 060263, 060285, 060288 and 060313. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Verna

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on today's First Reading Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on Law and Government.

Councilman Kenney

Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Law and Government reports two bills and one resolution with favorable recommendations.

Council President Verna

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.

Chief Clerk

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Law and Government, to which was referred Bill No. 060335, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the City Solicitor, on behalf of the City, to enter into a multi-year contract with a provider of codification, editing and marketing services"; and Bill No. 060388, entitled "An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia for a proposal set forth in a resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment of the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to require the Finance Director to issue an annual report that analyzes the participation of disadvantaged business enterprises on City contracts"; and 060408, entitled "A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to require the Finance Director to issue an annual report that analyzes the participation of disadvantaged business enterprises on City contracts," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills and resolution to Council with a favorable recommendation.

Council President Verna

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.

Councilman Kenney

Thank you, Madam President. I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 060335 and 060388. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as this day of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Verna

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Resolution No. 060408 will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair at this time recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports 31 bills with favorable recommendations.

Council President Verna

Thank will please read the report.

Chief Clerk

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Streets and Services, to which was referred Bill No. 050570, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the paving of Driftwood Drive, Falls Circle, Riverview Lane and an extension of Founders Place"; and Bill No. 050571, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of 163, all under certain terms and conditions"; and Bill No. 051199, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Farmers' Markets'"; and Bill No. 060225, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Church of New Hope and Faith to -

Council President Verna

I Clerk to wait just a moment until our guests in the balcony leave, because it is rather noisy. (Pause.)

Council President Verna

All right. You can proceed.

Chief Clerk

Bill No. 060225, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Church of New Hope and Faith to construct, operate and maintain a one-story vestibule entrance"; and Bill No. 060241, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 271"; and Bill No. 060291, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-407 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Tour Passenger Carriers'"; and Bill No. 060315, entitled "An ordinance establishing a no motor home parking regulation on Livezey Street"; and Bill No. 060316, entitled "An 4 of an ordinance, Bill No. 030341, approved July 31, 2003, by extending the time for compliance with authorization conditions therein"; and Bill No. 060317, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 275"; and Bill No. 060318, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the paving of approximately 66 feet extension of Parker Avenue"; and Bill No. 060319, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307"; and Bill No. 060320, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Traffic Code,' to include violations issued pursuant to an automated red light camera enforcement system"; and Bill No. 060337, entitled "An the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 299"; and Bill No. 060341, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Laura Vernola and LW Restaurant to construct, operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe"; and Bill No. 060376, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Nick's Roast Beef at 2112 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, to construct, own and maintain a vestibule addition"; and Bill No. 060343, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Farmers' Markets'"; and Bill No. 060379, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the construction of a stormwater sewer and appurtenant work"; and Bill No. 060380, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Water Commissioner, on behalf of the City, to enter into an agreement with the owners 627 Saint Georges Road"; and Bill No. 060382, entitled "An ordinance establishing a no truck parking and tow-away zone regulation on Conshohocken Avenue"; and Bill No. 060383, entitled "An ordinance establishing a no truck parking and tow-away zone regulation on Ford Road"; and Bill No. 060384, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the paving of portions of City Avenue, Monument Road and Presidential Boulevard"; and Bill No. 060385, entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 190"; and Bill No. 060386, entitled "An ordinance establishing a no truck parking and tow-away regulation on Upland Way"; and Bill No. 060391, entitled "An ordinance granting permission to Nathan Ross and Samuel Lynagh, owners of the New Cafe, to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe"; and Bill No. 060392, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Francis Smith, 2112 South Howard Street, to construct and maintain a garage extension"; and Bill No. 060393, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 238"; and Bill No. 060395, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the United States Department of Treasury, United States Mint, 151 Independence Mall, to construct, own and maintain anti-terrorist bollards and planters"; and Bill No. 060396, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Rockledge/Fox Chase Business Association to construct, own and maintain a clock tower and raised planter"; and Bill No. 060398, entitled "An ordinance authorizing One Meridian maintain a building encroachment"; and Bill No.

Chief Clerk

060399, entitled "An ordinance authorizing 1500 Net-Works Associates to construct, own and maintain four raised planter clusters"; and Bill No. 060400, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Temple University to construct, own and maintain an overhead weather protection structure," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.

Council President Verna

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the 31 bills that have just been read into the record. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Council President Verna

Those opposed? (No response.)

Council President Verna

The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. The Chief Clerk will please read the bills on our First Reading Calendar.