COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, June 6, 2024 10:10 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILMAN CURTIS J. JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY M. LOZADA COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK F. SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, INTERIM CHIEF CLERK
And to my colleagues, good morning again. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. This Council is now coming to order as members will take their seats. Visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. We're asking for all conversations to cease and/or take outside the chambers. Before proceeding, I will ask all those present to please set your cell phones to silent or vibrate. Thank you. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes the is the Pastor and Head of Staff of Old Pine Street Presbyterian Church in South Philadelphia, 1st Councilmanic District. He is here today as the guest of Councilmember Squilla. I would ask all members to please rise as well as all guests. (Councilmembers, visitors and guests rise.)
Thank you. It is truly an honor to be here. I just want to say a quick word about the church I serve. We're on the corner of 4th and Pine. We were opened in 1768. We're still in our same building. And if you walk by our churchyard, you'll see a number of these little 13 star flags, over 200 of them. Those mark the graves of men who fought in the Revolutionary War. And I just a nice thing to acknowledge today because it's the 80th anniversary of D-Day, that what we're doing in this room, this democratic experiment, never happens perfectly but it was important enough to a lot of people to give their lives to. And certainly, the people in my church who fought believed that the government should belong to the people, not to a king and that's why they gave their lives. So it's an honor to be here. And I would love if we could join our hearts together in prayer. Lord, make us instruments of your justice. Where there is hatred, let us so love. Where there is harm, let us offer forgiveness. Where there is doubt, let us share faith. Where there is despair, let us share hope. Where there is darkness, let us share there is sadness, let us share joy. O God, who made all things and who makes all things new, grant us the gratitude for this gift of life that you've given us and give us the courage to see your goodness in every situation. In your name we pray, Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks the Reverend for his invocation. Council will now be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 30, 2024. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 30, 2024 stand approved. All those in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is the request for leave of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, there are no requests for leave of absence today.
the Chair thanks the Majority Leader. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Brooks.
Good morning. On behalf of the Minority, there are no leaves of absence today.
The Chair thanks the Minority Leader. The Chair now recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session of Council and that listed on a calendar circulated prior to today's session.
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 amended agenda 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, amendments to bills re-called from the Mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in this session, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar and a motion placing a 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. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson may be added to the agenda for today should those matters arise during the course of this session of Council. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.
Hey, Council President. Just wanted to make mention that former Councilman Mariano was in the room, but he walked back out. So I tried.
Thank you very much. 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, we welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate you taking the time to join us as we attend to the city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time the Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass who will present a resolution recognizing and honoring the students of Imhotep Institute Charter School STEM Program for their dedication as change-makers ready to tackle humanity's most pressing challenges with determination and innovation. Would Shirley Posey, Director of the STEM program at Imhotep and those accompanying her please join the Councilmember at the podium. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.
I'm sorry. Again, Ricky came back in. So, Councilman Mariano.
Joining Councilmember Bass is Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, Councilmember Jim Harrity. (Councilmembers and guests approach podium.)
Good morning. You know what, let's add some energy into the room for these young people from Imhotep Charter High School who are really doing some really extraordinary work. (Applause.)
They are doing extraordinary work not City of Philadelphia but around the globe, and we're going to talk about that really briefly. But I wanted to say that I went to visit Imhotep a few months ago and when I saw the STEM program that they had and the aquaponics -- listen, I learned a whole lot from everything that was done and was being built and manufactured right there onsite at the school, just amazing. It brought tears to my eyes because we hear so much about the negativity around our young people. When we talk about kids who are doing it, they're doing it. I mean, they are doing it. And so, we need to recognize them and applaud them and say, keep on keeping on. (Applause.)
It's going to be hard roads ahead. It's times ahead, but you are on the right path and we want to encourage you to keep doing what you're doing because you're making a difference not just here in the City of Philadelphia but really all across the world, all around the world. And so, I want to read to you parts of our citation and honoring and recognizing the students of Imhotep Institute Charter High School STEM Program for their dedication as changemakers, ready to tackle humanity's most pressing challenges with determination and innovation. And whereas, Imhotep's STEM program tackles real-world environmental issues, particularly those associated with climate change. Starting in Jackson, Mississippi where they design and produce water filters to address issues, they have also used advanced 3D printing technology to develop water filtration systems to provide local communities in need; and
Whereas, Imhotep's impact extended beyond the local boundaries, reaching international destinations such as Ghana. Here they embarked on an educational odyssey, imparting knowledge about water quality to over 3,000 students. This included hands-on water testing and the introduction of groundbreaking water filtration technology. Their scientific outreach expanded further as the Gullah Geechee community on Sapelo Island sought their expertise to tackle long-standing water quality concerns overlooked by the state of Georgia; and
Whereas, these STEM ambassadors transcend crisis management. They embody the principles of sustainable development and promote eco-friendly practices wherever they go, currently donating 3D printers to bolster their mission. In Southeast Georgia, they conducted a thorough analysis of water quality at a local education institution uncovering hazardous conditions that promoted health inspections and the revelation that the water supply was unfit for the consumption; and
Whereas, the students of Imhotep STEM program ingeniously repurposed plastic bottles from recycled bins as raw material for filament products, fueling their 3D printers to create additional water filtration systems and hydroponic up the city with Project Heshima and converting trash into STEM treasures of water filters, pros -that's one even bigger for me -and hydroponics. In Project NIA, they have established the first hydrotech farm in Philadelphia to provide a solution for food deserts. Yeah, man. The project has provided 2.5 acres of non-GMO pesticide-free premium crop to the community and has expanded to the community's fridge. Their story emphasizes the innovation and commitment in the face of environmental and social challenges.
Now, therefore, be it Resolved, that Philadelphia City Council hereby recognizes and honors the students at Imhotep Charter High School STEM program. These young catalysts to the power of STEM, offering tangible solutions to urgent challenges with local and global implications. Let's give them a round of applause. (Applause.)
And I did want to highlight their recent trip to Ghana stands as a testament to their commitment. During their time in Ghana, the students and faculty of Imhotep Charter High School had a remarkable impact with their clean water initiative where they provided access to clean water for over 1200 Ghanaians, significantly enhancing the quality of life and health in several communities and their STEM empowerment program where they empowered over 500 Ghanaian students with the knowledge and skills of STEM, focusing on thinking, and this is the future and we're so proud. Thank you. (Applause.)
Or as we like to say at Imhotep Institute Charter High School, hotep, which means peace. So we're going to try this again. When we say hotep, you all say shemhotep. So hotep. (Shemhotep.)
All right. Thank you. So we would like to thank and give recognition to the Mayor, to Kenyatta Johnson, Councilwoman Cindy Bass and her office and to all the esteemed members of the Council today. On behalf of our CEO Baba Andre Noble, and the entire staff, family and the STEM Ambassadors, we would like to thank you for this prestigious honor. When we talk about climate change, there's something that transcends, a common threat that transcends past national borders and that's climate change. Now, the Mayor, we heard her speak yesterday and she talked about two types of people. One type of -one group of people, they articulate very well the problems and another group of people who articulate but also are creative geniuses that look for solutions and incorporate solutions. Well, at Imhotep we have solution providers. We have cultivated a group of young people that are making a real impact in the world. When we went to Ghana this year, not only did we go and but we united two communities, here in Philadelphia and in Ghana, whereas trash is a very big problem here, but with our resources and our intellect our STEM Ambassadors were able to collect this plastic waste, use an engineering machine that we have, convert it into monofilament, use that monofilament in a 3D printer to create water filters that cleaned and saved lives. So when we went there -last year we went, arrived and we had to take a canoe. But because of climate change, we had to walk the entire way because all of their water had dried up. I want you to picture that. Not only that, when we went there the STEM Ambassadors because we conduct studies as scientists, we walked to their drinking source which was a mile away and the water that they were foam. Through their innovation in a matter of 30 minutes, they were able to take water that looked like this and that tested positive for E. coli Clostridium and were able to provide them with clean water. (Applause.)
The children literally were fighting over the water because they said it tastes sweet. Not only that, we were trying to offer them candy or treats. They said, no, no, no, we want water. Not only that, we took the 3D-printed material and made a prosthetic limb for a villager, being able to see these STEM Ambassadors give somebody the ability to walk through something that is considered trash and through their innovation. So not only is our STEM program at Imhotep transformational, and just as Councilwoman Cindy Bass talked about how our city has a negative light, right, from the homicide cases, right, just like this phone, this is the dirty drinking water and the contamination our city gets, but we have a light of clean water, right. We have a light of these STEM Ambassadors that are changing the narrative of the City of Philadelphia. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. One second. I missed something in my notes. One of our young people from Imhotep just had a few remarks at the podium. It's always about the young people, y'all.
My name is senior from the graduating class of 2024 and I wanted to talk to you a little bit about our STEM program. Our STEM program is not simply an afterschool program or an extracurricular, but it's a tool, it's a constellation of resources that our young people use to solve real-world problems in our community. Through our STEM initiatives and our code of ethics, we're able to transform extraordinary students to trailblazers and global changers, people who actually change the world. At Imhotep we have a saying, it's called, Tep is the standard. And I'm not saying that just to say it. I say it because it really is. Tep is a standard because we go to places like Jackson, in their water crisis and the things that they go through. Tep is a standard because we go to places like Savannah, Georgia and we get the Public Health Department to shut down schools that are deemed unsafe for the school to be consuming the water and things of that nature. But most importantly, tep is the standard because we answer every call to action and we assist our communities when they need it most, and we just believe that that's the best thing to do, the right thing to do. So if you ever need help in the City of Philadelphia or anywhere globally, you know where to call, Tep.
real quick, you know. You can sign him up. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you so much, Mr. President. With all this positivity of young people, I'm inspired. But I want to welcome to chambers Ms. Philadelphia, Tynecia Wilson, from a place called Simpson Street. And for those of you who don't know, a lot has happened on Simpson Street. It's my ground zero in the 4th District, but she has managed to rise above that street and represent Philadelphia as our Ms. America. Can you stand and be welcomed by Council? (Applause.)
You're welcome. Congratulations. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Will the Chief Clerk please read the messages from the Mayor and any other communication in her possession.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on June 5, 2024, I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on May 23, 2024: Bill Nos. 240012-A, 240118, 240119, 240183, 240184, 240191, 240221, 240239, 240240, 240243, 240250, 240282, 240301, 240302, 240329, 240331, 240334 and 240335. And I am transmitting for the consideration of your Honorable body a draft of a resolution, entitled, Confirming the appointment of Tumor Alexander as Regional Trustee for the City of Philadelphia in connection with the Pennsylvania Opioid Misuse and Addiction Abatement Trust. There are no other communications in my possession, Council President.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Phillips.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, Philadelphia. It's a great day to be alive. There's no bills or resolutions for introduction today.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Kathy Gilmore Richardson.
Good morning, Council President. Today I offer two resolutions on your behalf.
Thank you very much. Will the Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions.
A non-privileged resolution confirming the appointment of Tumar Alexander as Regional Trustee for the City of Philadelphia in connection with the Pennsylvania Opioid Misuse and Addiction Abatement Trust.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Council President to initiate appeals by the City Council of Decisions of the Zoning Board of Adjustment in certain circumstances and to retain legal counsel in connection with such appeals.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration in the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
Today I offer one bill, one non-privileged resolution and one privileged resolution.
Thank you. Will the Clerk please read the titles of the bill and the resolutions.
An ordinance authorizing 5217 Whitby Mt. Moriah, LLC or subsequent owner to install, own and maintain an encroachment at 5217-5219 Whitby Avenue, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to modify the development plans previously approved by Council Resolutions 220757, 220823 and 230503 and memorialized in a Purchase and Development Agreement between the Land Bank and West NoMa Revitalization Group LLC (the "Developer"), to include only one renovated property, located at 4041 Cambridge Street in the 3rd Councilmanic District, and to permit West NoMa Revitalization Group LLC to return the properties located at 759, 761, 763, 773 and 783 Pallas Street in the 3rd Councilmanic District to the Philadelphia Land Bank in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Gloria Twine Chisum, Ph.D., for her civic leadership and service to the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. I have one resolution.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring and congratulating the Champion of the Week, the Fairmount Water Works Freshwater Mussel Hatchery, for their research and efforts to improve water quality and aquatic life in the City of Philadelphia using lab-grown freshwater mussels.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. From the chamber that never sleeps, three bills and four resolutions, one of them privileged.
Will the Clerk please read the titles of the bills and resolutions.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Service and Other Businesses," by adding a new section regulating the hours of operation of businesses within the area bounded by 54th Street, the north side of Market Street, 63rd Street and Lansdowne Avenue, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance requiring the Water Commissioner on behalf of the City to convert certain water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure on West Country Club Road, Mimi Circle, and East Country Club Road, between Conshohocken Avenue to Conshohocken Avenue, and a portion of Lakanau Avenue from private to public infrastructure, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance formally renaming the Overbrook Park Branch Library located at 7422 Haverford Avenue, Philadelphia, Pa 19151, as the Robert A. Brady Library to honor the dedication and service of former United States Congressman and Chair of the Philadelphia Democratic Party, the Honorable Robert A. Brady.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming West Allegheny Avenue between 25th Street and 26th Street as "Thomas 'Cut Master Butter' Muldrow Way," in honor of the life and legacy of WDAS radio personality Thomas 'Cut Master Butter' Muldrow.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a privileged resolution honoring the five 4th District recipients of the Lindback Award for Distinguished Teachers, Tyriese Holloway, Robert Smith, Michelle R. Shaw-Carpenter, Garth Shuler, and Christina Kimmel.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Tynecia Wilson for her outstanding dedication to education community service and her recent crowning achievement as Ms. Philadelphia 2024.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring and celebrating the life and legacy of Miller Parker and formally declaring June 18, 2024, as "Miller Parker Day" in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
Good morning, Council President, colleagues or roommates. I have one privileged resolution for us today.
Thank you very much. Will the Clerk please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution declaring June 21, 2024 as "Make Music Philly Day."
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. I offer no bills and no resolutions today.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President. Before I offer my bills and resolutions, I would like to recognize the Middle School Track Team from Girard College who is here today. So if you all can stand up please. (Applause.)
Thank you. They're coached by Coach Reggie Manley. The Middle School Track Team performed very well at their conference championship about a week or so ago. Today actually the Varsity Team actually won the Conference championship so we're introducing the resolution today recognizing the Varsity Team. But today I introduce one bill, two privileged resolutions and two non-privileged resolutions.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the bills and privileged and non-privileged resolutions.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-4400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Responsible Business Operations," by amending the definition of critical nuisance businesses and further clarifying an obstruction of an investigation, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming Master Street between Broad Street and Carlisle Street as "Erika Alexander Way."
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming North College Avenue between West College Avenue and Ridge Avenue as "Freedom Fighters Way."
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.
And a privileged resolution honoring and congratulating Girard College Varsity Boys Track Team for winning the 2024 Metropolitan Philadelphia Athletic Association's Boys Track Championship.
This resolution will be placed on Today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing June 2024 as Gun Violence Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Brooks.
Good morning, Council President. I have three privileged resolutions to introduce today.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolutions.
A privileged resolution joining the City of Philadelphia in National Garden Week, celebrating the role of nature in nurturing mental and physical wellness and recognizing the urgent need for garden equity across the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Mya Benintende and Mark Macyk of the Edward T. Steel School as recipients of the 2024 Lindback Award for Distinguished Teachers.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution celebrating the use of school voucher programming as harmful to the School District of Philadel -- oh, I'm sorry. This would be a non-privileged resolution, Council President.
This resolution -- can you please read the title over. Read the title over please.
A non-privileged resolution condemning the use of school voucher programming as harmful to the School District of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.
Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke.
Good morning, Council President. No bills or resolutions today.
Good morning, Mr. President. And no bills or resolutions today.
Chair recognizes senior member Councilmember O'Neill.
Thank you. Will the Clerk please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the installation of an all-way stop sign at the intersection of Chalfont Drive and Calera Road.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark -- Mike -- Mark Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one non-privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Would the Clerk please read the title of the non-privileged resolution.
This might be privileged. It's privileged. Authorizing the Committee on Education to hold hearings to examine the sudden closing of the University of the Arts, the impact this sudden closing will have on the Philadelphia higher education system and most importantly, the negative impacts on the current student body and staff.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer two non-privileged resolutions.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the non-privileged resolutions.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank deeds conveying title to various properties located in the 8th Councilmanic District, including the following streets: Wakefield Street, Collom Street, and East Wister Street pursuant to the requirements of the Commonwealth Land Bank Act.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution requesting the Mayor to return Council Bill No. 240336, entitled An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code entitled, "Zoning and Planning," by adding definitions and creating a new Chestnut Hill Lower East/NCO in the area generally bounded by the SEPTA Chestnut Hill East Line, Cresheim Valley Drive, Germantown Avenue, Winston Road, Moreland Avenue, Devon Street, Ardleigh Street and Springfield Avenue, under certain terms and conditions for the purpose of reconsideration by the Council of the vote by which said bill passed Council.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for the consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution and one non-privileged resolution, co-introducing it with Majority Leader Councilmember Gilmore Richardson.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the resolutions.
A non-privileged resolution calling upon the City of Philadelphia's Office of Homeless Services and its contracted service providers to collect pregnancy status data at intake.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar -excuse me. This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a privileged resolution recognizing 10, 2024 as American Heart Association Centennial Celebration Day in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The next order of business is reports from the Committees. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Kathy Gilmore Richardson for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee of the Whole reports out five bills and three resolutions with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the report.
To the to which was referred the following bills and resolutions: Bill No. 240179 entitled, Adopting the operating budget for Fiscal Year 2025; And Bill No. 240180, entitled Amending Chapter 9-1800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "School Tax Authorization," to provide for an increase in the tax that the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia is authorized to impose on real estate, and amending Chapter 9-1300, entitled "Real Estate Taxes" to establish an equivalent reduction in the tax rate for the City real estate tax and making technical changes, all under certain conditions; and Bill No. 240181, entitled To adopt a Fiscal 2025 Capital Budget; and Bill No. 240182, entitled Program for six Fiscal Years 2025 through 2030 inclusive; and Bill No. 240492, entitled Amending Section 19-1301.1 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Homestead Exclusion," to increase the amount of the Homestead Exclusion, under certain terms and conditions; and Resolution No. 240168, appointing Madison McCarron to the Board of Directors of the City Avenue Special Services District of Philadelphia and Lower Merion; and Resolution No. 240487, entitled Appointing Cari Feile Bender to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District; and Resolution No. 240552, entitled Appointing Briana Wilkins to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services Districts, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills and resolutions to Council with a favorable recommendation.
The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. And Bill Nos. 240179, 240180, 240181, 240182 and 240492 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Resolution Nos. 240168, 240487 and 240552 will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Mr. President. reports out 11 bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the report.
The Committee on Rules to which was referred the following bills: Bill No. 240058, entitled Amending Section 14-702 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Floor Area, Height and Dwelling Unit Density Bonuses," to add requirements related to the use of payments in lieu of building affordable housing to receive floor area, building height and dwelling unit density bonuses; and amending Section 14-533, entitled "/MIN, Mixed Income Neighborhoods Overlay District," to add requirements related to the use of payments in lieu of building affordable housing affordable housing building requirements, all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240157, entitled Amending Title 14 ("Zoning and Planning") and Title 18 ("Commerce") of The Philadelphia Code to clarify responsibilities of the Department of Aviation, and eliminating provisions related to passenger charges, all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240242, entitled Amending section 14-500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Overlay Zoning Districts," by amending Section 14-524, entitled "/FDO, Fourth District Overlay District," to establish use regulations on medical facilities, all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240332, entitled of the redevelopment proposal for the American Street Industrial Corridor Urban Renewal Area, being the area generally bounded by Lehigh Avenue, Berks Street and Montgomery Avenue on the north; by Second Street and Philip Street on the east, by Girard Avenue, Oxford Street and Jefferson Street on the south, and by Germantown Avenue, 6th Street and 3rd Street on the west, including the sixth amendment to the urban renewal plan which provides for changes that would make it consistent with the North Philadelphia Redevelopment Area Plan and generally consistent with the most recent Comprehensive Plan approved by the City Planning Commission of the City of Philadelphia; and Bill No. , relating to the District; and authorizing the East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District, Inc. to assess property owners within the District a special property assessment fee to be used in accordance with the approved plan; all in accordance with the provisions of the Community and Economic Improvement Act, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240385, entitled To amend the Philadelphia Zoning zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Snyder Avenue, 6th Street, Cantrell Street and 7th Street; and Bill No. 240415, entitled To amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Island Avenue, the Delaware Expressway and Bartram Avenue; and Bill No. 240421, entitled To amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Valley Avenue, Domino Lane, Ridge Avenue, Paoli Avenue, Pechin Street (extended), Ridge Avenue, Hermit Street and Henry Avenue and to amend Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code by adding Section 14-541, Ridge Avenue Neighborhoods Overlay/RAN, and making other related changes, all under certain conditions; and Bill No. 240426, To amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Roosevelt Boulevard, Adams Avenue, Ramona Street, Wyoming Avenue and Whitaker Avenue; and Bill No. 240427, entitled Amending Section 14-305 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Nonconformities," by providing further provisions on changes from non-conforming uses, all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No.
240466, entitled Amending Section 14-303 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Hearings of the Zoning Board of Adjustment," to change the number of Board members required for a taken at a Zoning Board of Adjustment hearing, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
The Chair recognizes Chairwoman Bass for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading of this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk with the exception of Bill No. 240242 to be placed on next week's First Reading Calendar. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries. And Bill Nos. 240058, 240157, 240332, 240368, 240385, 240415, 240421, 240426, 240427 and 420 -- 240466 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Bill No. 240242 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson and Chair for a report from the Committee on Finance.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Finance reports out 12 bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please read the report.
The Committee on Finance to which was referred the following bills: Bill No. 240372, entitled Constituting the Twentieth Supplemental Ordinance to the Amended and Restated General Airport Revenue Bond Ordinance; authorizing the Mayor, the City Controller and the City Solicitor, or a majority of them, to issue and sell one or more series or subseries of tax-exempt or taxable airport revenue bonds or notes of the City of Philadelphia; setting proceeds; determining the sufficiency of pledged Amounts Available for Debt Service; covenanting for the payment of interest and principal; authorizing the Bond Committee to take certain actions with regard to the terms and conditions of the airport revenue bonds or notes and related agreements in the elections under the Amended and Restated General Airport Revenue Bond Ordinance; authorizing the Director of Finance to take certain actions with the regard to the sale of such airport revenue bonds or notes, the investment of the proceeds thereof and the City's continuing disclosure obligation; and specifying the applicability of sections of First Class City Revenue Bond Act and the Amended and Restated General Airport Revenue Bond Ordinance; and 240373, entitled Constituing -- Constituting, excuse me, the Sixth Supplemental Ordinance to the General Gas Works Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1998, (the "1998 General Bond Ordinance"); authorizing the City of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, (the "City") to sell, either at public or private sale, one or more series of Gas Works Revenue Bonds and Gas Works Revenue Bonds to refund such Bonds; to pay the costs of certain capital projects and other Project Costs and the cost of redeeming the City's Gas Works Revenue Capital Project Commercial Paper Notes; authorizing the City to amend, novate or terminate all or any portion of any Qualified Swap Agreement; authorizing the City to obtain credit enhancement for any Series of the Bonds; making certain determinations and covenants Works Revenues and payment of interest and principal; and authorizing covenants and actions in order that the Bonds shall not be arbitrage bonds; under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240374, amending the Seventeenth Supplemental Ordinance to the Amended and Restated General Airport Revenue Bond Ordinance (Bill No. 190432) of the Council of the City of Philadelphia approved, by the Mayor on June 26, 2019, to authorize an increase in the aggregate principal amount of Airport Revenue bonds or notes to be issued under the Seventeenth Supplemental Ordinance from $350 million to $500 million (exclusive of costs of issuance(including underwriters' discount), original issue discount, capitalized interest, funding of Fund Reserve Account, if necessary, and similar items); further amending said Ordinance (Bill No. 190432) to authorize the pledge for security and payment of some or all of the Obligations a lien and security interest in Passenger Facility Charges, to the extent available; and authorizing certain other actions; and Bill No. 240375, entitled Constituting the Nineteenth Supplemental Ordinance to the Amended and Restated General Airport Revenue Bond Ordinance, providing for certain amendments to the Amended and Restated General Airport Revenue Bond Ordinance, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240377, entitled Authorizing the City Treasurer on behalf of the City to enter into an National Association for provision of payroll banking services to the City, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No.
240378, approving the amendment of the Fiscal Year 2024 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works (including the supplying of funds in connection therewith) subject to certain constraints and conditions and acknowledge the receipt of Revised Forecast of Capital Budgets for Fiscal Years 2025 through 2029, as amended; and Bill No. 240379, entitled Amending Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Contracts and Procurement," to modify the requirements for contracts with not-for-profit vendors, all under certain terms conditions; and Bill No. 240416, entitled 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 towards 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 the issuance of the bonds, and certain other actions; and Bill No. 240417, entitled Approving the Fiscal Year 2025 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works, including the supplying of and acknowledging the receipt of revised forecast of capital budgets for Fiscal Years 2026 through 2030, all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240467 entitled, Amending Chapter 19-3500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Hospital Assessments," to revise provisions relating to hospital assessments; and authorizing the Department of Public Health to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with the Commonwealth, Department of Human Services, relating to such hospital assessments; all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240470, entitled Amending Chapter 19-3200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Keystone Opportunity Zone, Economic Development District and Area," to provide for additional extensions of certain benefits, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. L. 1449, Section 4, as amended, to prevent and eliminate blight; authorizing the Director of Planning and Development and the file applications to obtain other grants from the Commonwealth; authorizing the Director of Commerce to use Section 108 Loan Guarantee Program; and authorizing the Director of Planning and Development and the Director of Commerce to enter into all understandings and assurances contained in such applications and to take such action to accept the grants, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of to permit first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. Bill Nos. 240372, 240373, 240374, 240375, 240377, 240378, 240379, 240416, 240417, 240467, 240470 and 240494 will be placed on for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports out 16 bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please read the report.
The Committee on Streets and Services to which was referred the following bills: Bill No. 240305, entitled Authorizing encroachments and the nature of a sidewalk café in the vicinity of 795 North 24th Street, Philadelphia, Pa 19130, under certain terms and conditions; and 240380, entitled Amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Farmers Markets" by adding a permissible location on South 52nd Street, between Pine Street and Osage Avenue, all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240382, entitled Authorizing the installation, ownership and maintenance of various encroachments in the vicinity of 4432 Main Street, 4436-42 Main Street and 4436R Main Street, Philadelphia, Pa 19127, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240384, entitled Authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk café in the vicinity of 944 North 2nd Street, Philadelphia, Pa 19123, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 240418, entitled on Addison Street between South 54th Street and South 53rd Street; Baltimore Avenue between South 43rd Street and South 44th Street; Irving Street between South 54th Street and South 50th Street; Springfield Avenue between South 51st Street and South 52nd Street; Washington Avenue between South 56th Street and South 57th Street; South 46th Street between Locust Street and Spruce Street; Pine Street between South 62nd Street and South 63rd Street; Melville Street between Spruce Street and Locust Street; South 54th Street between Greenway Avenue and Woodland Avenue; and Bill No. 240419, entitled Establishing a parking regulation on Irving Street between South 59th Street and South 60th Street; South 49th Street between Regent Street Avenue; South 46th Street between Linmore Avenue and Woodland Avenue; Walnut Street between South 61st Street and South 62nd Street; Webster Street between South 51th Street and South 52nd Street; Sansom Street between South 61st Street and South 62nd Street; Walton Street between South 49th Street and South 50th Street; Locust Street between South 59th Street and South 60th Street; Locust Street between South 49th Street and South 50th Street; and Bill No. 240420, entitled Establishing a parking regulation on Ellsworth Street between South 60th Street and South 61th Street; Ruby Street between Springfield Avenue and Chester Avenue; Sansom Street between South 60th Street and South 61st Street; Webster Street between South 60th Street and South 61st Street; Rodman 56th Street and South 57th Street; Willow between South 53rd Street and South 54th Street; Cobbs Creek Parkway between Spruce Street and Locust Street; South 52nd Street between Chester Avenue and Springfield Avenue; and Bill No. 240424, entitled Amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Farmers Markets," by adding a permissible location at the 4th District Container village located at 4862-70 Parkside Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19131. Bill No. 240434, entitled Amending Chapter 12-3400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Use of an Automated Speed Enforcement System to Improve Safety on Roosevelt Boulevard," by providing for the use, administration and enforcement of automated speed and making regulated technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No.
240469, entitled Granting permission to University City Eruv Corporation, in order to demarcate the boundaries of University City Eruv District and maintain a clear nylon cord and/or plastic tubes and other ancillary devices, including a maximum of 10 poles along, over and in certain public rights-of-way in City streets and/or to attach such demarcation facilities to existing facilities owned by other entities authorized by other City ordinances, subject to such owner's consent, all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240473, entitled Authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk café in the 3743 Midvale Avenue, Philadelphia, Pa 19129, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240475, entitled Amending Chapter 12-900 ("Parking Regulations and Penalties") and Chapter 12-2800 ("Administrative Adjudication of Parking Violations") of The Philadelphia Code to add prohibitions and penalties related to parking certain large vehicles, including boats, motor homes, house coaches, house trailers, truck campers, recreational cargo trailers and recreational trailers, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 240493, entitled Authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk café in the vicinity of 1532 Snyder Avenue, Philadelphia, Pa 19145, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240495, entitled Beaumont Street from 51st Street to its terminus southwestwardly therefrom; and Bill No. 240496, entitled Authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk café in the vicinity of 6249 Catherine Street, Philadelphia, Pa 19143, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240497, entitled Authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk café in the vicinity of 5013 Baltimore Avenue, Philadelphia, Pa 19143, under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
The Chair recognizes Chairman Young for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries. Bill Nos. 240305, 240380, 240382, 240384, 240418, 240419, 240420, 240424, 240434, 240469, 240473, 240475, 240493, 240495, 240496 and 240497 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Driscoll for a report from the Committee on Licenses and Inspections.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities -- oh no, I'm sorry. That's next. This one -- the Committee on Licenses and Inspections reports out seven bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please read the report.
The Committee to which was referred the following bills: Bill No. 240371, entitled Amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code," by amending Subcode "PM" (The Philadelphia Property Maintenance Code), to add restrictions and remedies regarding encroaching trees, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240414, entitled Amending Chapter 9-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Service and Other Businesses," by adding a new section regulating the hours of operation of certain establishments and providing for penalties within an area bounded by Ogontz Avenue, between Haines Street and Cheltenham Avenue, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240468, entitled 9-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Services and Other Businesses," by adding a new section regulating the hours of operation of certain establishments and providing for penalties within an area bounded by Ogontz Avenue, between Haines Street and 66th Avenue, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240474, amending Chapter 9-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Services and Other Businesses," by adding a new section regulating the hours of operation of certain establishments and providing for penalties within an area bounded by East Allegheny Avenue, Kensington Avenue, Torresdale Avenue and Frankford Avenue, under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240476, entitled Amending Chapter 9-600 of The Code, entitled "Service and Other Businesses," by adding a new section regulating the hours of operation of certain establishments and providing for penalties within the vicinity of an area bounded by North Broad Street and North Park Avenue, between West Chew Avenue and West Tabor Avenue, and in the vicinity of Wagner Avenue, between North Broad Street and Old York Road, all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240498, entitled Amending Chapter 9-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Service and Other Businesses," by adding various locations to the section regulating the hours of operation of certain establishments and providing for penalties within those various locations, all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240500, entitled 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions," by adding a new chapter creating requirements related to the operation and maintenance of electric vehicle charging stations installed at certain commercial and residential parcels, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
The Chair recognizes Chairman Driscoll for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by the (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries. Bill Nos. 240371, 240414, 240468, 240474, 240476, 240498 and 240500 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Driscoll for a report Transportation and Public Utilities.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities reports out two bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please read the report.
The Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities to which was referred the following bills: Bill No. 240429, entitled Authorizing the Procurement Commissioner and the Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Aviation, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an amendment to a concession agreement for the development, operation and maintenance of an airport advertising program at Philadelphia International Airport; all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 240433, entitled Authorizing the Procurement Commissioner, on behalf of the City, to enter into a lease and concession agreement with Aero Center Northeast Philadelphia, LLC in connection with certain property at Northeast Philadelphia Airport to facilitate the development and operation of a new fixed-based operator, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
The Chair recognizes Chairman Driscoll for a motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bills just read into the record by the Chief Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of the bills just read by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries. 240429 and 240433 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier for a report from the Committee on Housing, Neighborhood Development and the Homeless.