COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania February 26, 2026 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER 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 SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, CHIEF CLERK - -
All visitors, please retire outside the rails. Please take all conversations outside of the Council chambers. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Before proceeding, I will ask all those present to please set your cell phones to silent and/or vibrate. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Rev. Dr. Valerie Andrews, Pastor of the Eternal Life Missionary Baptist Church in Southwest Philadelphia. She is here today as guest of Majority Whip Councilmember Isaiah Thomas. I will ask all members and guests to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests and visitors rise.) REV.
Let's pray. We're commanded in scripture to pray for those who have authority, for those who lead us, that they may live quiet and peaceful lives and live with integrity, gracious God. Our Father, we come before you this morning in the precious name of Jesus, thanking you Lord for this City Council, praying God even right now that you would move by your spirit. Thanking you, oh God, for our presence. Lord, asking, Lord, right now that you would touch in such a special way that, Lord, even when decisions are being made that this Council will look to you. We recognize that every last one of them, Councilmen and Councilwomen are concerned about the affairs of this city. And so, we pray even now that as things come to the table, that though they may agree, that they may be able to also disagree in love. We ask for wisdom, discernment. But, God, give them a heart of compassion. We pray for mercy. We ask, God, that they will see beyond what they see and that, Lord, when they don't understand, that they would seek your divine will. We ask, God, that you bless every staff person that works for the Councilpeople. That, Lord, you would touch them in the name of Jesus, that, God, you would meet them where they are. We pray for every home that is represented here today. God, I don't know what's going on, but you know we thank you for the City of Philadelphia, the City of Sisterly and Brotherly Affection. But, Lord, we just ask that all that they do will again glorify your name. And when they glorify your name, the people will be blessed. Take care of every household that is here. Some may be sick in body, some may be sick in their mind, some may be sick in their spirit. But, Lord, you are a healer and you are a deliverer. So move by your spirit as only you can do. We say thank you for what is going to happen in 2026. We give you glory even now because we're expecting you to do a great thing in the City of Philadelphia. Have thine own way, God. We ask that you would undergird the Councilmen and women, God, in such a way that they will have running in their feet, clapping in their hands, giving you glory and honor in all that they say and in all that they do. At the end of the day we want you to say, Lord, well done, thou good and faithful servant. So, Lord, bless these your people as only you can. We pray this in the name of Jesus, let our hearts say Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks the Pastor for the 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, February 19, 2026. The Chair recognizes Majority Deputy Whip Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 19, 2026 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 19, 2026 stand approved. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence. And the Chair recognizes Majority Whip Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues, and thank you. Council President, on behalf of the Majority, leave of absence is requested from Councilmember Gilmore Richardson.
The Chair thanks the Councilmember. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Thank you. On behalf of the Minority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair now recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session of Council and that were not listed on the Calendar circulated prior to today's Council session.
Again, thank you, Council 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 that were 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 bill or resolution on or returning a bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to be included on the Calendar that was not published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Councilmember Majority Whip Isaiah Thomas may be added to the agenda for today should those matters arise during the course of this session of Council. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our great city. We certainly invite you to come again. The Chair at this time acknowledges Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. I'd ask that the chamber please join me in welcoming and congratulating the team and coaches, families and supporters of the Smedley Bulldogs Blitz cheerleaders. Please stand up. (Applause.)
We are proud to honor the Smedley cheerleaders as the first Philadelphia public elementary school to compete at the Universal Cheerleaders Association Nationals in Florida. This team of 22 dedicated cheerleaders exemplify extraordinary commitment, perseverance, teamwork and excellence. They have trained through countless hours of practice and prepared, promoting the school spirit and making their school, their families and their city super, super proud. Thank you so much, Smedley. Congratulations to you. (Applause.)
The Chair at this time recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. We have amazing guests in the chamber today. And it is my honor to welcome the Philadelphia Orchestra President Ryan Fleur and Chief Culture and People Officer Doris Parent, as I present a citation recognizing its 125th anniversary. You know, first-class city, first-class orchestra. As Vice-Chair of Global Opportunities and Creative Economy, I am proud to honor an institution that helps define Philadelphia's cultural excellence. So Ryan Fleur and Doris Parent -- where is she, somewhere --
I also recognize with much pleasure, Angelo Perryman and his daughter Angelina Perryman for the legacy of Perryman Building and Construction and its lasting impact on Philadelphia. Under Angelo's leadership, the firm has delivered more than 1000 projects. And on February 9, 2026 he was elected, underscore elected, by members of the General Building Contractors Association to become the Chairman of the Board. This is the first time we have an African American man leading this organization. So congratulations and thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you, Dr. Nina Ahmad. I just want to note for the record that the Orchestra resides in the 2nd Councilmanic District on the Avenue of the Arts. The Chair at this time recognizes Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
Thank you, Council President. I just wanted to briefly welcome someone who we're going to be honoring next month. Let's welcome one of our newest Chief Inspectors of the City of Philadelphia, Chief Inspector Nicholas Smith is here with us today. And we're so proud of the work that he has done in the Northwest section. We were sad, a lot of us are, our neighbors in the Northwest, to see someone who understood at its core the importance of community bonding with law enforcement and being responsive. He's a leader among leaders when it comes to Philadelphia Police Department. He is not only just a hard-working professional, but he is genuine and he's been able to really resolve a lot of issues in our neighborhoods in Northwest. So, Philadelphia, let's celebrate one of our best leaders and when we celebrate him more next month, Chief Inspector Nicholas Smith. (Applause.)
Thank you very much, Dr. Phillips. The Chair now recognizes Majority Whip Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Good morning, Council President. Happy Black History Month. For those who don't know, our office has been in the position to have a lot of phenomenal interns this month and some of them are going to be leaving us pretty soon. So I wanted to take a moment, we have 11 interns in our office. They're in the balcony area. Can all of you guys please stand up. Give them a round of applause. (Applause.)
They've been working very hard all month. Thank you for the work you've been doing in City Council. We have interns from Temple, Drexel, Prep Charter, Sankofa Freedom Academy and the Commonwealth. Thank you, Council President. (Applause.)
And thank you all for the great work that you all are doing.
Thank you. Chair Recognizes Minority Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I decided since everybody is doing their honor, I want to make sure that I represent the Black Farmers coming out of your district.
Carol Simmons, Nyoca Carr, Estelle Vaughn, Pela McFee, Carol Booker and in honor of Ms. Winnie Harris. (Applause.)
These women and folks work really hard to keep farming and agriculture live in Southwest Philly, and I just wanted to honor them in the spirit of Black History Month.
Welcome to City Council. Chair acknowledges Majority Deputy Whip Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I just wanted to, well, say a couple of things. The first, I want to add on to Inspector Chief Inspector Nick Smith, who has just been just wonderful to work with in the Northwest. Congratulations on your very well-deserved promotion today. I'm also proud to welcome the Championship boys basketball team of Imhotep Charter High School join us alongside their Athletic Director Kevin Norris. Will these young men please stand? (Applause.)
And I think that they may be in the balcony there. The Imhotep Panthers have made Philadelphia history capturing their sixth consecutive Public League championship through discipline, resilience and true teamwork. If you had all watched the game last week against West Philadelphia High, Councilwoman Gauthier, you know it was a very exciting game down to the last minute. We're introducing a resolution today to commend these outstanding student athletes, their coaches and their families for representing our city with pride and distinction. Please join us again in congratulating the Imhotep Charter Panthers on their big win. (Applause.)
Six consecutive. And I have to say, it was very bold of my colleague Councilwoman Gauthier to offer a wager based on Imhotep's impressive history and reputation and work over the years. And so, we look forward to her paying up on those cheesesteaks or whatever we're getting, food, from her office. So thanks, Council President.
Absolutely. Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today we also have Pastor Clement Lupton, who we're recognizing as someone who has been holding down the North Philadelphia Logan area for many, many years, if he would stand, representing Beloved St. John Church. (Applause.)
Many of you may remember it as the church across from Sid Booker's. We'll put it in that context. So thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you very much. The Chair now recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr.
Thank you so much, Mr. President. I want to recognize last but not least, some students, scholars and staff that are coming in from the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy, who have graced us today. One of the administrators there happens to be the better half of Josh Cohen, my Chief of Staff. Can we welcome the student and faculty? (Applause.)
Welcome. I'd like to do a soft handoff to Rue Landau so it doesn't look like nepotism.
Good morning, everybody. I just wanted to recognize our City Representative Jazelle Jones, who's in the house, and also Kathryn Ott Lovell, the head of the Philly Visitor Center.
Can y'all let me do my job. At this time, I'll take a moment of personal privilege to acknowledge that Philadelphia City Council has partnered with Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation and Philadelphia250 to present a special preview of the City's Semiquincential(sic), something like that, celebrations in this chambers -- and we're talking about schools now -- as you can see by the display near the media platform. We've been loaned to 2 of the over Bells across 18 Pennsylvania, replica Liberty Bells 19 that will soon grace our City's 20 neighborhood corridors and landmarks. One of the bells is very special to me because it comes from Point Breeze within the 2nd Councilmanic District. The Bell entitled The Promise Of What's To Come, was designed by artist Symone Salib in partnership with Point Breeze Business Association and Greater Philadelphia Community Alliance. The second bell will likely be the first bell that visitors to our great city will see when they visit this summer, as it will be placed in the Philadelphia Visitor Center on Independence Mall. It's fittingly titled, We The People, and was painted by artist Tara Jacoby in partnership with Visit Philadelphia. I would like to acknowledge Kathryn Ott Lovell, CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation for loaning us these bells for this special preview and for all the work that Philadelphia Visitor Center and Philadelphia250 are doing to prepare for the Neighborhood Center People Focus 2026 celebrations. I'd also like to ask to join her at the podium City Representative Jazelle Jones and also Michael Newmuis as well. Please stand with her. (Applause.)
Thank you so much to Council President and to all of you on City Council for your incredible support of our Semiquincentennial celebration.
I was going to run that back and just say it. I just spelled it out.
The 250th anniversary of the birth of our country. I want to start by thanking Mayor Cherelle Parker, who had an extraordinary vision for what our celebration can and should be, not just for all of the visitors that we anticipate coming to Philadelphia, but for our residents and everybody who lives and works and plays in our neighborhoods. So a huge thank you to Mayor Parker for not just having the vision, but putting the funding behind the vision to make all of this incredible work possible. I also want to thank Chief Deputy Mayor Vanessa Garrett Harley, our City Representative Jazelle Jones and Office of Special Events Director, and our 2026 Director Michael Newmuis. Philadelphia250 is an organization that's been around for quite a while. I've been involved with this organization for the past year. The work that we're doing is hand-in-hand with our partners in the city as well as communities across the city. We know that there will be celebrations that happen in the historic district of Philadelphia. We know there will be celebrations that happen at the Sports Complex with the World Cup and Major League Baseball All Star Game. We know that there will be celebrations that happen along the Parkway and up at Lemon Hill. Our job at Philadelphia250 is to ensure that those celebrations pour out into every neighborhood and every zip code of our city. And we're doing that in large part in partnership with community members. These bells that are here today and will grace City Council for the near future will soon go out into neighborhoods, along with other bells now. It keeps growing. There's so many bells around the city. And what these bells represent is not just our liberty and our freedom as a country, they represent the hopes and dreams and aspirations and traditions and histories and cultures of the communities that co-created them with artists from the Mural Arts program. It has been an amazing project. And I want to acknowledge certainly Mural Arts, America 250 PA, our state commission that has these bells all over the Commonwealth. Over 100 bells will grace other counties throughout the Commonwealth. I also want to thank the School District of Philadelphia, who has lent us the space to paint these bells and to do a lot of our programs, a free warehouse where we're doing a lot of our work behind the scenes for Philadelphia250. And I believe the head of the Point Breeze Business Association, Jamar Bordly is here with us today. I want to thank Jamar for his and his community's work on making this bell really beautiful. So thank you so much. (Applause.)
There is so much that is happening behind the scenes at Philadelphia250. Not only do we have the Bells Across PA project, but we also are planning activations and beautification projects across commercial 20 corridors throughout the city. So you will soon see commemorative benches and bike racks and massive planters and street banners and other beautifications that we have come to know as expectations in Center City, but not in our neighborhoods. And you will soon see those beautifications grace 6 different neighborhoods along 20 7 main streets throughout our city 8 over the next six weeks. 9 We will also be 10 amplifying events and festivals 11 that happen along those commercial 12 corridors, 20 of them, and we will 13 soon announce a list of events that 14 will happen along those commercial 15 corridors throughout 2026. In 16 addition to that, we are also 17 curating, mapping and scripting 18 neighborhood tours. 19 We know that people will 20 want to visit the historic district, but we want to take them out to the real Philadelphia. We want them to get to know our city when they visit here in 2026 through our neighborhoods. And so, we are working hand-in-hand with community leaders to curate 5 neighborhood tours. 6 Every weekend of tourism 7 season in 2026 a different free 8 tour will go out to a different 9 neighborhood throughout 10 Philadelphia, from May through 11 October of 2026. We are also 12 2026ifying the block party. We 13 will 2026ify 250 block parties 14 throughout the city in 2026. We 15 will soon be announcing how to 16 participate in that program. The 17 block party is a beloved tradition, 18 and we just want to make sure that 19 everybody has the opportunity to 20 supersize their block party and make it really special for this momentous year. We also have some legacy projects that we're working on with our Women's committee. There are over 300 women who have joined a Women's committee for the 250th. One Legacy project is a partnership with the Women's Opportunity Resource Center. It's about supporting women financial entrepreneurs through a pitch competition that we'll be announcing soon in May. And then the other is the restoration and reimagining of the Belmont Mansion and Underground Railroad Museum in West Fairmount Park. (Applause.)
This is the only property in Fairmount Park that has been led and stewarded by three generations of African American women. And our hope is to make this a Legacy project for 2026 and to invest major, major capital resources and programmatic resources to transform this asset and truly make it the destination that it so deserves to become, not just today, but into the future for our city and for our parks. So we're incredibly excited about that project as well. (Applause.)
Lastly, about a year ago we introduced a program called The Phanbassadors. The Phanbassadors is an opportunity for every Philadelphian to join in the work and the mission that we have at the Philadelphia Visitor Center, which is to connect visitors with the incredible experiences of Philadelphia and with authentic and memorable experiences and people. The Phanbassador program is really just an opportunity for everyday Philadelphians to sign a pledge, your undying and everlasting love for Philadelphia, and to spread that love to everybody you meet who visits our city in 2026. Our goal was to get to 10,000 Phanbassadors by the end of 2026. We are nearing 9000 Phanbassadors, which is absolutely amazing. And this summer, we will introduce a Youth Phanbassador Program where we will employ young people working with JEVS and Temple University, employ young people to work as Phanbassadors this summer, be spread out across the city, learning how to greet people and potentially pursuing careers in the hospitality and the tourism industry beyond that. None of this work would be possible without the incredible staff of course at the City, the Department of Commerce. We have been meeting weekly with the Commerce Department, many other city departments for almost a year. And I also want to thank our staff at Philadelphia250. Elka Battle Murillo is the Vice-president for 2026 initiatives. (Applause.)
Another face that is no stranger to this body is Patty Gillett, who is our Director of Community Programs and all of the staff at Philadelphia250 and the Visitor Center. We are so grateful to you and to each and every one of you, City Council leaders. Thank you for your extraordinary support of this work. It is going to be a banner year for Philadelphia and one that will give us incredible, incredible benefits for many years to come. Thank you so much. (Applause.)
And I'd be remiss if I didn't acknowledge our Council's ambassador for all things 2026 for the Semiquincentennial, acknowledging Councilmember Isaiah Thomas. (Applause.)
Thank you very much for your leadership on this topic. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Members, we will take a picture with the bell.
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau, who will present a resolution on my behalf, honoring and congratulating Nicole Cashman, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Cashman & Associates, on the occasion of the firm's 25th anniversary, and recognizing her remarkable contribution to the business community and cultural vitality of the City of Philadelphia. Would Nicole Cashman and those accompanying her please come to the podium. Joining Councilmember Landau are the following Councilmembers: Councilmember Squilla, Councilmember Lozada, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, Councilmember Mike Driscoll, Councilmember Kendra Brooks, Councilmember O'Rourke and Councilmember Phillips. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And I've known the work that Nicole Cashman has been doing in the early stages of her starting her firm, and it has gone beyond the business community, but most importantly, a focus on the contributions to make our city great. Councilmember Rue Landau, the floor is yours.
Good morning, everybody. This is a resolution honoring and congratulating Nicole Cashman, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Cashman & Associates, on the occasion of the firm's 25th anniversary, and recognizing her remarkable contribution to the business community and cultural vitality of the City of Philadelphia.
Whereas, Philadelphia native Nicole Cashman began her career at Drexel University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Design and Merchandising with a minor in Marketing, while completing a co-op internship at the flagship Saks Fifth Avenue in New York City;
And whereas, she blossomed in her role as Public Relations Director for Bloomingdale's coordinating communications and events for the New York and Boston regions and was recruited as Director of Public Relations, Special Events and Community Engagement for 28 Strawbridge's stores in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware; and
Whereas, Nicole founded her own Philadelphia-based firm, Cashman & Associates, in 2001. What started as a one-person startup has evolved over the past years into a 6 highly-respected, woman-owned firm 7 with national recognition, serving 8 clients across different sectors, 9 including hospitality, retail, 10 tourism and nonprofits; and 11
12 Whereas, Nicole Cashman's 13 entrepreneurial success has earned 14 her widespread recognition and 15 honors, including the Philadelphia 16 Business Journal's Women of 17 Distinction Award, the Public 18 Relations Society of America's 19 DeAnne White Award for Individual 20 Achievement, the Drexel University 21 Rankin-Epstein Distinguished Alumni 22 Award, the CCPA Real Small Business 23 Award and recognition as a women- 24 owned business leader by the PHL Diversity and other regional organizations; and
Whereas, beyond her professional success, Ms. Cashman has demonstrated a deeply personal devotion to the City of Philadelphia through sustained civic engagement, including service on nonprofit boards and advisory committees, the provision of pro bono and reduced-fee public relations and marketing support to arts, culture, health and community organization, active participation in citywide cultural and civic initiatives; and a longstanding commitment to mentoring emerging professionals and supporting Philadelphia-based institutions; and
Whereas, her commitment to Philadelphia extends beyond business, reflecting a genuine belief in giving back to the City that shaped her career, mentoring future leaders, championing local causes and contributing her expertise to initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods and improve the quality of life for Philadelphians; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, Honors and congratulates Nicole Cashman, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Cashman & Associates, on the firm's 25th anniversary, and recognizes her remarkable contributions to the business community and the cultural vitality of the City of Philadelphia;
And be it Further Resolved, that an Engrossed copy of this resolution 4 be presented to Nicole Cashman in appreciation of her leadership and service to the City of Philadelphia. Congratulations. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Nicole Cashman for remarks.
Well, thank you, City Council. I am beyond honored. I never dreamed that I'd be here years later 16 with my son and my husband and my 17 mother and my right-hand Michelle 18 Conran, who is my Senior Vice- 19 president and Chief of Staff, has 20 been with me 13 years. 21 It has been a privilege 22 to be part of the growth of the 23 City of Philadelphia. It has been 24 a privilege to know Council President and to have him recognize me earlier in my career. It's a privilege to be in the same room as City Representative Jazelle Jones, who has been a mentor and friend since day one and everyone on her team and Kathryn Ott Lovell. I've had such an amazing run and I'm just getting started. I know it's impossible to believe that it's been years, but it 13 has. And we are going to continue 14 to make this city what it needs to 15 be. We're going to continue to 16 shine a national light on all the 17 good things that we do, whether 18 it's health, education, community, 19 lifestyle, tourism, hospitality, 20 all the things that make a city 21 great. So again, I'm humbled and I 22 appreciate this beyond, beyond. So 23 thank you. 24 (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, who will present a resolution expressing support for Jerome Richardson and our First Amendment rights in the face of political persecution against protesters by the Trump Administration. Would Jerome Richardson and those accompanying him please join the Councilmember at the podium. Joining Member Gauthier at the podium are the following members: Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips, Councilmember Jeffrey Young, Councilmember Rue Landau, Councilmember Brooks, Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
This is the brother that was with Don Lemon, but I'm going to let Jamie handle that. The Chair recognizes Councilman -- Councilwoman Jamie Gauthier.
Good morning, everyone. For 250 years, Philadelphia has been leading by example, encouraging our fellow Americans to use their voice to speak truth to power and fight for justice. Now, it is up to us to carry this torch. That means locking arms with young people like Jerome Richardson, who along with journalist Don Lemon and several others, is being targeted by the Justice Department for documenting the ICE occupation in his hometown, St. Paul, Minnesota. Jerome should be enjoying his last few months as a student at Temple University before entering the working world. Instead Trump is exploiting the full weight of the federal government to make an example of Jerome. Trump knows that what he's doing is not just unpopular, it's antithetical to American values, and he's trying to make an example out of Jerome to scare us from standing up and speaking out. But an attack on one of us is an attack on all of us. Jerome, I wish you didn't have to be here today, but know that Philly has your back and we will support you as you face the bully in the White House. (Applause.)
While the symbolism of this resolution presentation sends an important message, I know that you need more than words to get through this. So if you are able, I encourage my colleagues and the listening public to join me in donating to Jerome's legal defense fund. You can learn more by going to Jerome's Instagram @officiallyjerome. I also want to thank my co-introducers Minority Leader Kendra Brooks, Councilmember Rue Landau, Minority Whip Nicolas O'Rourke and Councilmember Jeffrey Young, Jr., for all the work you've been doing behind the scenes to help Jerome. We stand with Jerome. We stand with Minneapolis. We stand with immigrants, and we stand with every single American and city under occupation by Trump's anti- American white supremacist mass secret police force. United we stand, divided we fall. We are here to say that just like we did 250 years ago, that Philly chooses to stand. We will now read the resolution.
Whereas, Jerome Richardson is a senior majoring in political science at Temple University, a saxophone player and a Christian. He's also an active youth leader that advocates for civil rights and community engagement. And whereas, like many Americans, Jerome Richardson is deeply troubled by the increasingly violent and un-American tactics being used by ICE and other federal agents in cities across the United States, including violence, even lethal force against protesters; and
Whereas, Jerome Richardson, along with Don Lemon and several others, were arrested and indicted by the federal government for exercising their First Amendment rights; and
Whereas, we should be focused on -- whereas when he should be focused on graduating and enjoying his final months as a student at TU, Jerome Richardson now has to face a federal indictment; and
Whereas, as the birthplace of America and modern-day democracy, Philadelphia is proud of our heritage as a place where residents have always spoken truth to power and stood up for our Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Protest and other protected First Amendment rights. And Jerome Richardson is a continuation of this proud tradition; and
Whereas, arresting journalists and those who help them document what is happening in our country during this pivotal moment is unconstitutional and antithetical to the values outlined by our Founding Fathers here in Philadelphia250 years ago. Now, therefore, be it, injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere, and this body has an obligation to speak up when one of our young constituents finds themselves in the Trump Administration crosshairs for exercising their constitutional rights; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby express support for Jerome Richardson and our First Amendment rights in the face of political persecution against protesters by the Trump Administration. Please welcome Jerome Richardson to the podium. (Applause.)
For those in the back who are shouting, my grandmother would say, Lift up your heads, O ye Gates. But furthermore, she'd also say, I give honor to God because he's the head of my life. And so, I'm elated to be here in the presence of all of you. I'm elated to be here in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and affectionately as a Temple University student. I came here about four years ago and was welcomed by the community in such a grand way. It's been such an honor to be able to see what community looks like on display. When I think of Philadelphia, it's so similar to Minnesota. And we say these words, like, show me what community looks like, this is what community looks like, right. And so, when I look at this audience of people and those who fill up the streets of Philadelphia and in the classrooms as well as at Temple University, I certainly see the sense, where this is where community shows up and this is what community looks like. And so, I want to thank you all again for your enormous support. I want to thank Councilwoman Jamie and her staff, who have been very, very, very diligent and making sure that I'm well, that I'm okay. And at the end of the day, again I want to uplift all those young people who are out there who may feel defeated or who have never had the opportunity to stand up against what injustices are or document and storytell the injustices that we face. Obviously, I'd like to lift up the names of Alex Pretti and Renee Good, who were murdered at the hands of ICE enforcement. I'd also like to lift up my family who have been very supportive during this entire time. And you know, they say strangers support you the most. So like, shout-out to the strangers, you know what I'm saying. A lot of y'all I don't know but I appreciate y'all. (Applause.)
So thank y'all again. If you didn't hear anything that I said today, it is that we must make sure to it that we show up to the midterms. As you heard at the State of the Union, if Donald Trump loses the midterms, the Donald Trump effect and error is over. And so, we must show up to the midterms in a robust way. Whenever journalists are under attack, we are all under attack. So thank you all so much. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from -- Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
In the meanwhile while Council is at ease, I would like to take a moment of personal privilege to acknowledge Donna Bullock, CEO of Project HOME. Where is Donna at? (Applause.)
Fierce advocate for addressing our homeless community. She was out all last evening doing a Point-in-Time count to make sure we address all the issues regarding those who are homeless and make sure we have accurate data to address their issues, needs and concerns. Thank you very much, Councilmember Rue Landau, also for being on the ground and working on this issue. (Applause.)
At this time, 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 communications in her possession.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on February 24, 2026, I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on February 12, 2026: Bill 24 No. 250988 and Bill No. 251031. Council President, there are no further communications in my possession.
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 Councilman Dr. Anthony Phillips.
Thank you, Council President. I have one bill and one privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the bill and resolution.
An ordinance authorizing the City of Philadelphia to install, own and maintain right-of-way encroachments on 7600, 7700 and 7800 blocks of Ogontz Avenue, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Chief Inspector Nicholas Smith for his distinguished service, community- centered leadership and unwavering commitment to public safety in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
Good morning, Council President. Today I have one non-privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolution.
The Chair acknowledges the Chief Clerk. Please read the title of the resolution.
A non-privileged resolution, also naming the 4700 block of Wyalusing Avenue as "Philadelphia Masjid Way" in recognition of 50 years of faith, service, leadership and community excellence.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes my Majority Whip Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Thank you, Council President. I have two resolutions on your behalf today. Council President, for a moment of personal privilege I just want to say congratulations to Audenried for winning the Public League championship.
It's not really relevant. You know, we should focus on the great work that Audenried has done, the coach, the sisters, the entire program. It's amazing.
You're welcome, sir. Very well said. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolutions please.
A privileged resolution 18 congratulating the Audenried High School Girls Basketball Team on winning the 2026 Public League Championship against Imhotep High School, securing their fourth straight PPL championship.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Philadelphia250 and the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation and their Philadelphia community partners for their work on the "Ring It On" citywide Semiquincentennial initiative.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr.
Thank you, Mr. President. One bill and one non-privileged resolution on your behalf after a four-hour hearing dealing with first responders. Thank you for your quick action.
Thank you very much, sir. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill 7 and resolution.
An ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Hermit Street between Manor Street and Manayunk Avenue.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution calling on the PA General Assembly to take swift and decisive action to pass Pennsylvania Senate Bill 110, also known as Bryan's Law, to amend the Emergency and Law Enforcement Personnel Death Benefits Act to extend line-of-duty death benefits to surviving spouses and children of first responders who die from job-related trauma, including PTSI- related suicide, ensuring equitable treatment for their families.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
Thank you, Council President. I have two privileged resolutions today.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the resolutions.
A privileged resolution recognizing February 28, 2026 as HIV Is Not A Crime Awareness Day in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing the U.S. Women's Hockey Team for winning the gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics and representing the United States with distinction, integrity and excellence.
Can we invite them to, like, really give them their due here? We would like to do that, Rue. Other folks don't get it. But this resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. Today I have two privileged resolutions.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolutions.
A privileged resolution recognizing and celebrating March 2026 as Women's History Month in the City of Philadelphia, and championing the power of women who build connections and drive prosperity for all.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring the Smedley Bulldogs Blitz Cheerleaders as the first Philadelphia public elementary school to compete at the UCA Nationals.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one bill 18 and three privileged resolutions.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill 23 and the privileged resolutions.
An ordinance amending Section 14-303 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Common Procedures and Requirements" by further clarifying exceptions to lapse of permits issued without construction documents, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution welcoming the 58th Mid-Atlantic Black Law Students Association Regional Convention to the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for today.
A privileged resolution recognizing March as "National Reading Month" and March 2nd "Read Across America Day" in the City of Philadelphia, and further honoring the critical work of community organizations working to expand literacy skills of youth and adults across the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing February 23rd to February 27, 2026 as Public Schools Week, and celebrating the essential role of Public Schools, educators, students and families in strengthening the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Minority Leader Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution to introduce today.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing and celebrating Dr. Carol Simmons, Nyoca Carr, Estelle Vaughn, Pela McFee, Carolyn Booker, Winnie Harris, and the Black women who devote their lives to nourishing their neighbors and communities across Philadelphia, on the occasion of Black History Month.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilman Jim Harrity.
Thank you, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke.
Thank you, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.
Morning, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Brian O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill on your behalf.
Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 12-923 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Smart Loading Zones" authorizing the Philadelphia Parking Authority to install smart loading zones in the area of Center City bounded by Spring Garden Street, Bainbridge Street, the Schuylkill River and the Delaware River, for the purpose of improving the appropriate use of loading zones and reducing traffic congestion, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Chair recognizes Majority Deputy Whip Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer two privileged resolutions.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions.
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring the Imhotep Charter High School boys' basketball team for winning its sixth consecutive Public League Championship and honoring its historic achievement in Philadelphia high school basketball.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring Pastor Clement M. Lupton, III, for his outstanding leadership, faithful service and transformative impact upon the spiritual and civic life of the City of Philadelphia in recognition of Black History Month.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. I offer three privileged resolutions today.
Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolutions.
A privileged resolution authorizing the Joint Committees on Public Health and Human Services and the Children and Youth to hold hearings to raise awareness regarding the role of gaming platforms and social platforms and their use in the grooming, recruitment and exploitation of minors, including conduct that may lead to human trafficking.
Excellent resolution as a dad. This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring the Philadelphia Orchestra on the occasion of its 125th Anniversary, celebrating its founding in 1900 and its enduring role in establishing Philadelphia as a global center of culture, creativity and artistic excellence.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring Angelo Perryman and Perryman Building and Construction for 70 years of excellence, leadership and lasting impact on the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Congratulations, Angelo Perryman. Keep up the good work. As there are no reports from committees today, the next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Majority Whip Isaiah Thomas for a motion concerning the 2ND READING bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following bills and resolutions are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Bill Nos. 241070-A, 260119, 260122, 260123, 260125, 260129, and 241056. The following bills on the Calendar are being held: 250768, 250807, 250843, 250917, 250980 and 251025. Thank you, Council President.
Thank you. Before considering these bills and resolutions, we will consider public comments as follows: Your public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for possible action at today's Council session. All speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already signed up for today's session, please do so now by giving your name to Ms. Hasson at the table outside the rails to my left. Once you have signed up, you will be called in the order in which your name appears on the sign-up sheet. Under ideal circumstances, public commenters will each have three minutes to speak. However, this time limit may vary from session-to-session. Today the time limit will be two minutes. In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the two-minute limit. When you begin, you will see a green light on the podium. When there are 30 seconds remaining to your time, the light will turn yellow, which is your reminder to conclude your remarks. Once two minutes have passed, the light will turn red and the Sergeant-at-Arms will disconnect the microphone at that point. Please yield the podium to the next speaker if you have not already done so. I also reserve the right, pursuant to our rules of City Council, to limit repetitious comments on the same subject matter. I will now ask the Chief Clerk to please call up our first speaker.
Ryan Fleur, Estelle Vaughn, Lynn Landes, Janine Litsky and Katrina Delancey, please make your way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Good morning. My name is Estelle Vaughn. I'm from the Tioga Hope Park and Garden. I'm here to say good morning. Thank you, thank you, God, for he is omnipotent and can do all things well. He sends the rain and the sun to make the flowers bloom and the vegetables bountiful in our garden. He sends angels to help us. The PHS Horticultural Society blesses us with unbelievable generosity, encouragement and resources. They have done so much. They have given us flowers, seeds, mulch, built benches. They have sponsored activities in our communities, workshops, jazz concerts and unity days. They have provided flowers and pots and soils that the neighbors may participate in porch challenges to beautify their block. PHS brings artists to beautify our garden and donors by the busloads. Thank you to our visitors and donors. They are of all ages and colors, both sexes, and they are from all over the city. Thank you, Kendra Brooks and the City Council, for this honor. Please accept this invitation. It is an open invitation to visit our garden during the spring and summer when everything is blooming. We are all human. One thing that we all have in common is stress. I have been a registered nurse at Temple University Hospital for 39 years. I can attest, both personally and professionally, to our stress and its effects. I had a brain bleed and underwent brain surgery. It took me one year to heal. You are looking at a miracle. God spared my life. Stress will manifest in your body and can kill you. Stress may cause a headache, high blood pressure, heart disease or an asthma attack. Pain and grief may cause stress. Overindulgement of self-medication for stress and pain, i.e., smoking, alcoholism, obesity and drug use will cause your organs to fail. Our vital organs are our hearts, liver, kidneys, lungs and brain. People with whom we come in contact with, live with or near, work with or for, ride public transportation with or drive near may cause stress. Fear of one another, being hurt or going outside can cause stress, inactivity and pain. God is -- we're done? Thank you all. That's it. And I'm going to give this to the Clerk. Could you pass that to the unit clerk. That's an open invitation. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good morning. I'm Lynn Landes of healthalertphilly.org. I strongly oppose the legalization of the addictive drug marijuana. As a nation, we already have serious health and safety problem with marijuana use, including the public's involuntary exposure to its secondhand smoke. Please read the book Tell Your Children for its indepth account of marijuana's devastating impact on human health, the brain, violence and society at large. On another matter, and as founder of Philly's Republican Network, we support the SAVE Act, which requires voter ID and proof of citizenship in order to vote in federal elections. The irony is that we all have to show our ID every time we come into City Hall because City Council wants a secure building. Shouldn't the security of our elections merit even more concern? Voter ID enjoys overwhelming support. Yet in 14 Democratic states and the District of Columbia, an ID is not required to vote. Furthermore, some Democratic localities are allowing non-citizens to vote in their elections. What does that say about the Democratic Party's loyalty to American citizens? That question was answered at the State of the Union address when President Trump asked legislators present to stand up and show their support for the following statement: "The first duty of the American government is to protect American citizens, not illegal aliens." All the Republicans stood up, but only a handful of Democrats, and that showed the American public what's truly at stake here. It's not just another difference of political opinion. Under the Biden Administration, the Democrats engineered a foreign invasion of our country and clearly want illegal immigrants to vote in our elections as well. This de facto political insurrection is threatening to destroy -- (Background interruption.)
This de facto political insurrection is threatening to destroy our nation, something not seen since the Civil War. Support the SAVE Act. Thank you.
Good morning. Janine Lisitsky, President and CEO for Mental Health Partnerships. I'm here today because a federal funding decision that may feel very distant in Washington has very real consequences for Philadelphia. Last fall, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development announced significant changes to the continuum of care, Notice of Funding Opportunities, the primary federal funding stream that supports our homelessness response system, the recent NOFO shifts funds, funding priorities away from permanent supported housing and towards transitional housing, while prohibiting the displaced residents from qualifying for the new or even existing transitional housing units. Permanent supported housing is the most rigorously studied and consistently effective intervention for people experiencing chronic homelessness. I have spent my career leading community-based behavioral health and housing organizations, implementing evidence-informed models and working directly with individuals who have experienced homelessness for years and sometimes decades. I am a witness. I have seen people move from crisis to recovery, not because they were compelled into service, but because they had stable housing and trusted support in Pennsylvania. Approximately two-thirds, that's 66% of our permanent supported housing beds are funded through the federal continuum of care. In Philadelphia alone, early projection suggested more than 1200 units could be at risk under this proposed change. And while a federal court has temporarily blocked the rule, but uncertainty remains, providers are waiting on funding. Planning is stalled and some beds have already been lost, and systems like ours cannot be turned off and on without consequences. (Applause.)
Will Katrina Delancey, Angie Nelson, Evelyn Torres, John McAuley and Carolyn Booker, please approach the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Good morning. My name is Angie Nelson and I'm the Executive Director at Pathways to Housing Pennsylvania. At Pathways to Housing, we empower unhoused people with disabilities to reclaim their lives through providing stable housing, supportive services in a caring community. We know that housing with supports works to end episodes of homelessness and help our community members achieve stability. Pathways to Housing serves people with disabilities experiencing chronic homelessness by pairing independent apartments with comprehensive wraparound services. The people we serve are among Philadelphia's most vulnerable. And today, our eight clinical teams support more than 500 participants in housing citywide. This resolution brought by Councilmember Landau matters because only a fraction of those who need permanent supportive housing currently receive it, and recent federal decisions jeopardize even that. In late 2025, HUD disrupted more than two decades of data-driven precedent by cutting funding streams that we rely on. As a result, Pathways to Housing was forced to end leases for apartments and displace 19 participants due to a non-renewed 20 grant. If HUD's proposed cuts move 21 forward, we are at risk of dropping 22 from serving 500 people in this 23 supportive housing to only 125 24 people in this supportive housing, potentially forcing 375 high-need Philadelphians onto the streets, into our emergency rooms, into shelters, prisons or worse. I urge you to support this resolution so we can send a unified message that these cuts cause real harm and further reductions would be catastrophic. For the sake of our participants, for our employees, for our landlords and community members, this funding must not only be protected, it must be expanded. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good morning, everyone. My name is Evelyn Torres and I'm the Executive Director of Action Wellness. For 40 years, our incredible staff and volunteers have worked alongside people living with HIV, providing services to support their wellness and health and advocating for policies rooted in science and compassion. I'm here today to support designating February 28, 2026 as HIV Is Not A Crime Awareness Day sponsored by Rue Landau. For a decade, HIV has carried not only a medical diagnosis, but also a heavy burden of stigma, fear and misunderstanding. In the early years of the epidemic, limited knowledge led to panic-stricken policies. Some of those policies remain in our laws today, laws that criminalize people with HIV based on outdated science rather than current medical evidence. Today we know the facts with modern treatment. People living with HIV can achieve an undetected viral load, meaning that virus cannot be transmitted. Science has given us clarity. Medicine has given us tools. Yet stigma still lingers in our legal system and in our communities. HIV Is Not A Crime Awareness Day, which serves three critical purposes: First, it would educate. Many people still do not know that HIV is a manageable chronic condition. Education replaces fear with understanding, especially for those communities historically underrepresented who are disproportionately impacted by HIV. Second, it would humanize people with HIV. Criminalization reinforces the harmful idea that people living with HIV are dangerous. They are not the 18,000 people living with HIV in Philadelphia, which are parents, teachers, veterans, students, leaders, our friends and family. A day of awareness reminds us that HIV is a public health issue, not a moral failing. Third, it would inspire action. Currently, there is Bill 11 HB 632, sponsored by Representative Bill Waxman. This bill aims to modernize Pennsylvania's Criminal Code by removing the final remaining reference to HIV. Recognizing 228 as HIV Is Not A crime Awareness Day sends the message that Philadelphia stands with Representative Waxman and many others in their critical work to reform our outdated and harmful law. Thank you. (Applause.) MR. McAULEY: Good morning, everybody. My name is John Alonte McAuley. I'm with a grassroots organization called Flint Philly Red. We're here to offer you something different because you've been voting Democrat for the Mayor's Office for the past 70 years. In regards to the SAVE Act, this is not a partisan situation. 84% of Americans approve of the SAVE Act. 76% of Black Americans approve of the SAVE Act. For the people who watched a great State of the Union speech the other night by President Trump, 64% of them believe that his policies will move us into -- (Background interruption.) MR. McCAULEY: Exactly. We don't want any more no excuse mail-in ballots. We know that mail-in ballots is a vector for fraud. We know that mail-in ballots is how you cheat to win your elections. We don't want any more rigged machines. Smartmatic Venezuela Hugo Chavez, do your research. It's amazing how I needed a photo ID to come into City Hall today. It's amazing how all in the Black neighborhoods the Democrats allow all of these liquor stores to remain. You had to have photo ID to go buy alcohol. It's amazing for the years and the generations, y'all want families to raise kids and families on Section 19 8 housing, welfare, cash assistance. You need photo ID to get all of these things. So this is all things the Democrats support. We want Governor Josh Shapiro to clean up the voter rolls. It's okay. America first. America first.
Carolyn Booker and Zaahir Muhammad Gray. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Good morning. State your name for the record. You may begin with your testimony.
Good afternoon. My name is Carolyn Booker and I'm speaking on behalf of Tioga Hope Park and Garden. You heard from Estelle Vaughn, our founder and visionary, earlier speaking about our garden, and also have another garden member here, our history keeper, Pela McFee and a few other friends and whatnot. Just want to say we are very humbled with this recognition of being Black women who nourish our communities. It's endearing to be part of a select group, including Dr. Carol Simmons, Nyoca Carr, Winnie Harris, who I had the pleasure of meeting at a PHS workshop years ago. Seriously may she be resting in peace. She did some great work. Our group, Tioga Hope Park and Garden, as I said includes Estelle Vaughn, our founder and visionary, Pila McPhee, history keeper. We have another member who can't be here today, Sister Mary Catherine. She always says the same. She loves to see God weave people together as golden threads to make his beautiful tapestry. I always think that's such a beautiful thing. We have a love of the land in our neighborhood and of our neighborhood and we have commitment over the decade. There's been dedication through many people who have been determined to keep our mission going. We have collaboration with many groups, Tioga United PHS, Philadelphia Master Gardeners, Tree Philly and Cristo Rey High School. We are seeking to leave a legacy of beauty, knowledge, appreciation of nature's nourishing power, physically and for our souls. And lastly, please vote to place a Tioga Hope Park and Garden into the land trust. Please protect and keep this vital space within our community. Help this soil continue to blossom, heal and nurture our community in Philadelphia. Thank you.
Before the next witness comes to testify, I just want to take a moment of personal privilege to say thank you to Councilmember Bass. As the President of the Coaches Association in the Public League, I want to say congratulations to Imhotep boys basketball team I see -- (Applause.)
Absolutely. I want to say congratulations to the head coach who couldn't be here, my good friend Andre Noble. This is his 14th Public League Championship, which has to be some type of record. And I also just want to say thank you to all of the unsung heroes at Imhotep who make this stuff work, including one of my good friends, Stan Williams, who's here, who if you don't know, Stan does a lot of work and a lot of giving back in the 8th and 9th Councilmanic Districts of the City of Philadelphia. So to the entire Imhotep team, thank you all for being here. (Applause.)
Mr. Captain, please state your name for the record and you may begin with your testimony. State your name for the record and you may begin with your testimony.
My name is Zaahir Muhammad Gray. I just wanted to say I appreciate the Council and everybody for recognizing us tonight and bringing us in. We feel appreciated for what we doing. I just want to say I thank you and I appreciate you for everything y'all did for us today. (Applause.)
Thank you guys and thank you for representing the City of Philadelphia and good luck in states this year. Thank you all. We appreciate you.
Will Julia Cadwallander, Donna Bullock, Jay Koftman, Kimmel Proctor, Dawn Hannah and Dominique, walk to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Good morning, Councilmember Young and members of City Council. My name is Julia Cadwallender. I'm the Managing Director of Read by 4th, Philadelphia's citywide early literacy movement. I stand here today as one person, but I am representing over 100 organizations and 1000-plus reading captains, neighbors, parents and community members who champion literacy every day across our city. We're grateful to Councilmember Young for this resolution, because National Reading Month does two powerful things at once. First, it is a celebration, a reminder to slow down, to curl up with our little ones and fall in love with stories, to remember that reading is not a chore. It is a joy. It is a gift. This month is also a spotlight, a moment to speak a hard truth out loud. Too many children in our city are not yet reading at grade level, not because they can't learn but because we haven't yet given them everything they need to succeed. The literacy crisis is real. It's urgent and it impacts all of us. But here's what I know: The literacy crisis is a challenge we have power to solve. We are training more educators in the science of reading and embracing evidence-based curricula. We are equipping families to be their children's first and most powerful teachers and we are raising our voices together to make sure that literacy stays at the top of Philadelphia's agenda. Reading is not just an academic skill. It is a civil right and the key to the life our children deserve. This month we join you in asking every Philadelphian to find joy in reading and to speak up for literacy in our schools and communities. Protecting our children's right to read is not just a policy priority, it's a promise. And today you're helping Philadelphia keep it. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good morning, members of Council, Council President Johnson. I'm Donna Bullock, President and CEO of Project HOME. I'm here to speak on Councilmember Landau's Resolution 10 26012200, which you've heard already about HUD's proposal to disinvest and invest in evidence- based solutions to address homelessness. Project HOME manages over 1000 units of housing, and more than 300 of those permanent supportive housing units stand to be at risk. Should HUD move forward for many of our residents, this housing offers more than a key. It offers them community stability and a place for healing and recovery. Like many housing providers, we've been forced to pivot, prepare and plan for potential funding cuts and policy shifts at the federal level. These results could be devastating for our organization and the individuals we serve. HUD subsidies can also be critical to the financing production and long- term sustainability of our low-income housing tax credit developments. These developments could be at risk from being not just in existence, but can hinder us from developing any new housing. This shift and threat of losing housing subsidies altogether put our most vulnerable residents at risk of returning to homelessness. And this impacts all of us, every single resident, every single business, our friends and our neighbors. But what we know is that homelessness is a local solution. And at its core, it is a challenge and a focus for all of us to address. Mayor Parker shares these sentiments, and she shared this in her recent State of the City Address and last night when we had the City's Point-in-Time count. She announced her commitment to 1000 new beds. But we need more than 1000 new beds. We need to continue to invest in permanent supportive housing. Because what we know at Project HOME is that none of us are home until all of us are home. Thank you, City Council. (Applause.)
Thank you and thank you for your service. We appreciate all you do. Thank you, Former Rep.