Stated Meeting, March 19, 2026

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania March 19, 2026 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILMAN CURTIS J. JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, CHIEF CLERK - -

Members, please take your seats. All visitors retire to the seats outside the rail. Please take all sidebar conversations outside of the Council chambers. All those present, please put your cell phones on vibrate and/or silence. Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)

Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)

To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Rev. Dr. Donna Lawrence Jones, founding Pastor of the Cookman Beloved Community Baptist Church. She is here today as guest of Councilmember Jamie Gauthier. I will ask all members and guests to please rise. (Councilmembers, visitors and guests rise.) REV.

Council President, Councilwoman Gauthier, guests, advocates, Philadelphians, Almighty God, we are, first of all, grateful for the opportunity that you give this Council, this Council that serves the City of Love and Affection known as Philadelphia; a place that started out as cradle of liberty, a place that has this history in welcoming people from all over the world regardless of status, a safe city. It is a place of our vision, a place where all of your children have enough and nobody has too little. It's a place of beloved community. Your servants have gathered today to honor those residents, visitors, no matter how they've come into our city, those houseless, those without safe housing that the advocates are here to plead for today and so many other issues that face and deface your will and your way. We ask that you give these members courage and strength to love, that you give them listening ears and hearing hearts, that you give them ability beyond what they know to come up with solutions beyond what we know to bring about peace, justice and equity for every man, woman, boy, and girl. Whether they've crossed the bridge or crossed the street, all our neighbors, allow us to support them in their work. Encourage them in their work, challenge them in their work, and advocate for those who are neighbors for all of us. Help them to hear us, to take it in, to not dismiss, but to rightfully struggle to find the ways necessary for justice and peace to be present here, especially now at a time where free speech is threatened, at a time where the Constitution is challenged, at a time where we're wondering is America possible. Let us know that with you all things are possible, and that this sacred and important experiment of ours can be seen, felt, understood and celebrated in this city. We're grateful for your wisdom. We're grateful for all the ways you give us the courage and the strength, the love and the joy to serve you in spirit and in truth. In the name of all that is holy, Amen. (Amen.)

The Chair thanks the Reverend for the invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

The next order of business is the Approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 12, 2026. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 12, 2026 be approved. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 12, 2026 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is the request for leaves of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilmember Thomas and Councilmember Lozada.

The Chair thanks the Majority Leader. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilmember and Minority Whip, Nicolas O'Rourke.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Minority, a leave of absence is requested for Minority Leader Kendra Brooks.

The Chair thanks Member O'Rourke. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes now Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson 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.

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 the motion placing a bill or resolution on or returning a bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to be included on the Calendar that was published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Majority Leader 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.)

Anyone opposed? (No response.)

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, and we certainly invite you to come again. The Chair at this time recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.

Good morning, Mr. President. Today I'm pleased to welcome a group of dedicated Community Autism Peer Specialists from Mental Health Partnerships who are visiting us here in City Council. The CAPS program is truly groundbreaking. It is the first program of its kind in the nation, connecting individuals on the autism spectrum with trained peers who share lived experiences. These specialists provide community-based behavioral support, helping people build independence, strengthen social connections and fully participate in their communities. These specialists serve young people and adults ages 14 and older with autism who may struggle with social, vocational or daily challenges. By working with someone who truly understands their experience, participants gain confidence skills and a stronger sense of belonging in our communities. Please join me in welcoming and recognizing the Community Autism Peer Specialists from Mental Health Partnerships, who are with us in the gallery today. (Applause.)

Thank you very much, Member Driscoll. I also want to acknowledge the City Solicitor, the Honorable Christy Brady. Thank you for joining us as well today -- I'm sorry. City Controller Christy Brady. Thank you for joining us today. (Applause.)

I also want to acknowledge the Honorable Patrick Dugan. Thank you for joining us today as well. (Applause.)

The Chair acknowledges Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.

Thank you, Council President. I want to take a moment to welcome Mrs. Renfrow, Baba Renfrow, Nicole Green and the Osage Avenue and Pine Street community who are here today, as we renamed the 6200 block of Osage Avenue Mr. Gerald Wayne Renfrow Way, after the late giant of our community. We are very pleased to have you here today. Can you stand up? (Applause.)

Welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr.

Thank you, Mr. President, colleagues, and those that are here today. I'd like to welcome the National Coalition of 100 Black Women to our chambers. They are no 10 strangers, but they are back here today dressed in black. Please rise. (Applause.)

Thank you, Mr. President.

You're welcome. Welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.

Thank you, Council President. I want to take a moment to recognize my guest here today in recognition of Women's History Month. I introduced a resolution 3 honoring Dr. Khine Zaw Arthur, who is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia. And would she please stand and let us all congratulate her for her leadership and entrepreneurial achievements. (Applause.)

Welcome. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr., who will present a resolution honoring and recognizing the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. - Pennsylvania Chapter 20 on their annual legislative day and for their dedication to advancing gender and racial equality and empowering Black women during Women's History Month. Would President Nyisha Chapman and those accompanying her please join Councilmember Curtis Jones at the podium. Joining Councilmember Curtis Jones are the following Councilmembers: Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Councilmember Rue Landau, Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young, Councilmember Jim Harrity, Minority Whip Nicolas O'Rourke, Majority Deputy Whip Councilmember Cindy Bass and Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)

Member Jones, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. President. As we allow the Coalition to grace us and come up, there are so many of them, I want to recognize for the record. They may only have a National Coalition of 100 but last time I counted, it was 147 so they are growing in every way. What I want to say about them in Women's History Month is they're not settling for reading history. They're about the business of making history. And their contribution in the Philadelphia Chapter, I've grown to appreciate because, brothers, they're running circles around us. They have an agenda. Their meetings are run professionally and with a certain degree of decorum, Mr. President, that you would appreciate. And they move on issues, whether it's economic issues, whether it's social justice issues, whether it's housing issues, to make a difference in our city. And although they are a National Coalition, they do not neglect Philadelphia's agenda. And for that, we are honoring them today. And with that, therefore, Katherine Gilmore Richardson;

Thank you so much to my District colleague Councilmember Jones. It is certainly my humble honor and privilege to stand with my sisters of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Pennsylvania Chapter. So today, we are honoring and recognizing the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. - Pennsylvania Chapter 3 on our Annual Legislative Day and for our dedication to advancing gender and racial equity and empowering Black women during Women's History Month; and Whereas, the Coalition of Black Women was formed in 1970, by visionary Black women, led by 11 Edna Beach, gathered in New York 12 City to address social, economic 13 and political issues impacting 14 their families and communities, 15 giving rise to the Coalition of 100 16 Black Women, a key organization 17 dedicated to advancing gender and 18 racial equity; and 19

20 Whereas, under Edna Beach's 21 leadership, the Coalition addressed 22 the root cause of inequality, 23 mobilized Black women who shared 24 their vision and became a visible force advocating for the empowerment of Black women in both the public and private sector; and

Welcome to my Coalition sisters. Whereas, by 1981, the New York Coalition had over 500 members. And as they gained recognition, they expanded their mission and vision nationwide. On October 24th of that year, the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. was formed, with Jewell Jackson McCabe selected as their first National President; and

Love this day. Whereas, in 1981, Jewell Jackson McCabe encouraged Sylvia Webster of Pennsylvania to charter a local chapter. Embracing the idea, Webster chartered the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. - Pennsylvania Chapter, (NC100BWPA) with 42 progressive women; and

Whereas, over the years, the indomitable National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. - Pennsylvania Chapter has grown to 200 members and has worked tirelessly to advocate for Black women and girls, advancing leadership development, gender equity and social justice, particularly in the areas of health, education and economic empowerment, while empowering thousands of Black women to lead in their communities, in their workplaces and beyond; and

Whereas, the National Coalition of 100 Black Women of Pennsylvania continues to be a powerful voice of gender equity and sociopolitical and advancement driving meaningful change to benefit Black women and girls. Additionally, NC100BWPA plays a key role in fulfilling the National Coalition's vision of world where socioeconomic inequity does not exist for Black women and girls; and

Whereas, The NC100BWPA members consist of a dynamic network of progressive Black women, including physicians, lawyers, educators, entrepreneurs and other skilled professionals who serve as change agents. They have recognized various needs in the Philadelphia community and contributed in many ways, including advocating for racial and social justice while striving to create a positive impact in their communities; and

Whereas, NC100BWPA remains committed to mentoring leadership development and fostering future generations of Black women leaders, recognizing that they are essential to leadership, continuity and must continue to lead the charge in effecting positive change; and

Whereas, the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. - Pennsylvania Chapter's continued success and impact are a testament to the strength, determination and vision of its founders who have bridged generational gaps, created programs that respond to the unique needs of their communities and maintained a steadfast and empowering Black women through advocacy, education and strategic partnerships; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we Hereby honor and recognize the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. - Pennsylvania Chapter for our tireless dedication to advancing gender and racial equity, our unwavering commitment to the empowerment of Black women and our significant contributions to shaping the future of leadership and advocacy for women of color right here in the City of Philadelphia, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and across the United States of America. Congratulations. (Applause.)

Before we bring up Ms. Chapman, I would be remiss and wouldn't be able to live with Wilhelmina Moore, who introduced me to this Coalition, and Charlita Davis of my staff who fights tirelessly for this group. Thank you. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes President Nyisha Chapman.

Thank you. Good morning, Councilmembers, distinguished guests and advocates, partners. My name is Nyisha Chapman and I have the honor of serving as the President of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women - Pennsylvania Chapter. We are grateful for the opportunity to be here today, not just to be seen, but to be heard and more importantly, to be a part of solutions that are shaping our communities. The National Coalition of 100 Black Women was founded in 1970 by a group of visionary Black women in New York City who understood the advocacy, leadership and collective action were necessary to drive meaningful change. What began as a small coalition has grown into a national organization with chapters across the country committed to advocacy on behalf of Black women and girls in the areas of health, education, economic empowerment and public policy. For more than five decades, our work has been rooted in one core belief, that Black women are not just participants in democracy. We are the architects of it. Legislative Day is not just a visit, it's a reminder, a reminder that policy is personal, that behind every bill, every vote and every budget decision, there are real people, families that are navigating rising housing costs, women building businesses without access to capital, young people trying to find pathways to opportunity and communities that are still fighting for equitable access to health care, education and safety. As an organization, we stand at the intersection of advocacy and action. We are committed to advancing equity for Black women and girls because we understand the simple truth: When Black women thrive, communities thrive. But let's be clear, progress does not happen by accident. It happens through intentional policy. It happens through courageous leadership. And it happens when organizations like ours and leaders like you all in partnership, not in parallel. Today we come with both appreciation and expectation. We appreciate the work that has been done to move our city forward and we expect continued commitment to policies that center equity, expand opportunity and remove systematic barriers that too many of our communities still face. We are especially focused on economic empowerment and closing the wealth gap, equitable access to safe and affordable housing, maternal and women's health outcomes, education and workforce pathways for our youth and the protection of civil and human rights in every space. These are not abstract priorities. These are urgent realities. And while we recognize the complexity of governing, we also recognize the power of collaboration. Our members are not just advocates. We are professionals, leaders, subject matter experts and community stakeholders ready to partner, advise and help move meaningful policy forward. So today is not the end of the conversation. It's the continuation of one. We invite you to engage with us, to listen to the lived experiences of the communities we serve and to work alongside us to build a city that is not only prosperous, but just. Because at the end of the day, the question is not whether we can afford to invest in equity. The question is, can we not afford to. Thank you for your time, thank you for your leadership and your commitment to the people of the city. We look forward to continuing to work together. And I want to say personally thank you to Councilmember Johnson -- Council President Johnson, Councilmember Jones, Councilwoman Gauthier, who's my Councilwoman, Councilwoman Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Councilwoman Bass, and all of the Councilmembers that are here today, and to the ladies that are standing beside me and with me. Thank you for this opportunity. (Applause.)

Thank you very much. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla, who will present a resolution recognizing and honoring Robert Faulds for his exceptional service to the United States Navy and to the City of Philadelphia. Will Robert Faulds and those accompanying him please join Councilmember Squilla at the podium. Joining Councilmember Squilla are Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, Councilmember Jim Harrity, Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke, Councilmember Mike Driscoll. (Councilmembers and visitors approached podium.)

The floor is yours, Member Squilla.

Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. Before we get started today, I first want to thank Councilmember Lozada, who introduced this legislation, as well as Tom for leading us here today. This is a resolution 6 representing an individual who assisted the city and has worked tirelessly to make his neighbors around him able to access resources as well as looking out for the city and the resources that are owed to them. So today before I begin, I'd like to recognize special guests joining me for Mr. Robert Faulds: City Controller Christy Brady; Director Gregory Wright from the Council's Veterans Office; Judge Patrick Dugan from the Korean War Memorial Board and Head Counsel Oh Young Lee from the Republic of Korea. Thank you all for being here. At 93 years old, Mr. Faulds is not only a proud Navy veteran of the Korean War, but also a lifelong resident of Kensington and a member of the Korean War Memorial located on Columbus Boulevard in the 1st Council District. He stands as a tribute to those who served along with our city residents, although Councilmember Lozada could not be here today, I am proud to join her in honoring Mr. Faulds' legacy. Council President, briefly before we present the resolution, the Head Counsel and Judge Dugan will be able to receive a microphone to able to cast honors on Mr. Faulds. JUDGE DUGAN: As the President Emeritus of the Korean War Memorial Board in Philadelphia and on behalf of the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, it's my honor for Robert Faulds to be presented with the Ambassador for Peace Official Proclamation. It is a great honor and pleasure to express the everlasting gratitude of the Republic of Korea and our people for the service you and your countrymen have performed in restoring and preserving our freedom and democracy. Bob actually went to Korea at the age of 17. We cherish in our hearts the memory of your boundless sacrifices in helping us re-establish our free nation. In grateful recognition of your dedicated contribution, it is our privilege to proclaim you an Ambassador for peace with every good wish of the people of the Republic of Korea. Let each of us reaffirm our mutual respect and friendship, that they may endure for generations to come. On behalf of the Minister of the Patriots and Veterans Affairs of the Republic of Korea, congratulations, Sailor Robert Faulds, proud Philadelphian. (Applause.)

Thank you, Judge Dugan. And now, I'd like to recognize our Controller Christy Brady. CITY CONTROLLER BRADY: Mr. Faulds is someone special in our office too. And today I am honored to recognize such an extraordinary Philadelphia resident for his exceptional service to our city. At 93 years old, a retired veteran, graduate of North Catholic, he continues a lifetime of public service, helping fellow residents find tax relief and recover unclaimed property. But Mr. Faulds didn't stop there. He came to our office with concerns about individuals and businesses fraudulently filing for the Homestead Exemption. Through his diligence and initiative, he gave our team a critical starting point. Because of that work, we launched an investigation that uncovered millions of dollars in fraud within the program leading to the removal of individuals and businesses who are improperly receiving the benefit and helping to protect vital resources for the City and our School District. Today we are proud to present him with a citation and recognition of his exceptional service to the City of Philadelphia. Mr. Faulds, you embody the very best of public service. Your vigilance, integrity and commitment remind us that government works best when citizens are engaged. On behalf of the City of Philadelphia, thank you for your service, your dedication and your lasting impact on this city. Thank you. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla.

Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you for allowing us to honor Mr. Faulds for his work that he has done. And today we're recognizing and honoring him for his exceptional service to the United States Navy and to the City of Philadelphia. Whereas, Robert Faulds, a Korean War Navy veteran, lifelong Kensington resident and retired insurance professional at 92 years old, continues to demonstrate extraordinary dedication to his city and its people; and Whereas, Mr. Faulds graduated with honors from North Catholic High School and subsequently enlisted in the United States Navy to serve in the Korean War. A rare photograph of his enlistment was published in the bulletin; and

Whereas, the USS Toledo (CA-133) was home to Mr. Faulds while sailing on the East China Sea; and Whereas, following the conclusion of the Korean War with the armistice signed on July 27, 1953, Mr. Faulds returned to his home, the USS Toledo (CA-133) anchored in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii after combat; and

Whereas, Robert Faulds' siblings demonstrated commendable service to our nation. James Joseph served in World War II. Phillip William fulfilled his duties in the Navy, Joseph James contributed to the U.S. Coast Guard and Robert Joseph also served in the Navy. Their collective dedication reflects a strong commitment to our country's defense and values; and Whereas, while recovering from a stroke, Faulds embraced the Internet to stay engaged and give back to his community. He spent countless hours researching and uncovering unclaimed assets and potential fraud within the City of Philadelphia's Property Tax Relief program; and Whereas, with no staff and limited resources, Mr. Faulds took it upon himself to track down Philadelphians eligible for tax relief or unclaimed assets, alerting approximately 1500 families to funds and exemptions they were entitled to, all while personally covering the cost of postage and ink for his letters; and Whereas, in addition to assisting Philadelphia residents with their tax relief and unclaimed assets, Mr. Faulds noticed discrepancies in the city's Homestead Exemption program, including properties with out-of- state mailing addresses, mail-in claims for the exemption by the same individuals and even businesses and landlords improperly receiving the benefit; and Whereas, rather than ignoring these discrepancies, Mr. Faulds took action by alerting the City Controller's Office, which launched a thorough investigation into the issue. This effort led to the identification of over 23,000 properties that were improperly enrolled in the program, resulting in an estimated $11 million in lost revenue annually for the city and school district; and

Whereas, thanks to Mr. Faulds' vigilance and dedication, the investigation prompted recommendations to strengthen the verification process for the Homestead Exemption, including better cross-checking of names and addresses, penalties for fraudulent claims and increased oversight of out-of-city beneficiaries; and Whereas, Mr. Faulds' tireless work not only exposed significant fraud within the Homestead Exemption program, but also helped safeguard millions of dollars in city and school district funds that are critical to providing vital services to Philadelphia's residents; and

Whereas, Mr. Faulds contributions to the city and his community reflect the highest standards of civic responsibility, public service and selflessness serving as a model for others to follow in their own efforts to make a difference in the lives of others; now, therefore, be it, Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby honors Robert Faulds for his exceptional service, unwavering dedication and significant contributions to both the community and the City of Philadelphia; Further Resolved, that an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Robert Faulds as evidence of the true and sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body. (Applause.)

The Chair now recognizes Mr. Faulds.

Well, it certainly is a pleasure to be here in Philadelphia City Hall. I've always been on the outside of this building and wondered about things that go on inside with all these dedicated people. And I just felt that maybe there was something I could do and I just went about it. And actually, it has really helped me pass the time of day because I'm on the Internet so much that I forget my own troubles and illnesses. And I even had to give up driving two years ago, which was a blow to me then. But being as I come on the Internet now and see that there are a lot of other things that I could help out with, especially the people in the area where I was brought up, which unfortunately doesn't have a good reputation maybe, Kensington, but I'm so glad that I had a good mother and a good father who really watched out for us and were good examples to follow. And they fortunately lived a pretty long life and they did the same thing that I did, although I imagine that during World War II and around that time, they had their four sons all go over at one time to the service, one to the Coast Guard, one to the Army and two to the Navy all at one time. And I didn't realize it, but the few chances I got to write letters home I thought they were just discarded letters. But lo and behold when I got home, there was a stack of letters, which I still have, and trying to keep my relatives posted on what we were doing. And the best part of my career was the time of Korea. My brother's ship, a cruiser, came alongside my ship which was a tanker, and we refueled his ship. And this is all in a war zone. And while we're there, I thought I'd take a chance and ask if I could go visit my brother on what they called the High Line. And because my captain of my ship was a submarine captain, very famous in World War II, I received permission to go sit in a chair and be hauled across to his ship, because both ships at the time were proceeding about 1520 miles an hour and we were all in a war zone. So good that the Koreans didn't have submarines because we would have been sitting ducks with them, I'm sure. (Applause.)

But as it was -- but I better save my war stories for a better moment or another time, or maybe if I live to be 100, I'll be able to get them all in. (Applause.)

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

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. The Chief Clerk will 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'm submitting herewith for the consideration of your Honorable body the following proposed: An ordinance authorizing the Procurement Commissioner to enter into agreements to purchase electricity, natural gas and motor fuel for use by the City and City facilities and vehicles, including agreements that obligate payment for delivery of such energy supplies in future fiscal years, all under certain terms and conditions. A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 3001 Martha Street now subdivided, resulting in the creation of individual parcels 9 known as 3011, 3013, 3015, 3017, 10 3019, 3021, 3023, 3025, 3027, 3029, 11 3031, 3033, 3035, 3037, 3039, 3041, 12 30, 3043, 3045, 3047 and 3449 13 Martha Street, located in the 1st 14 Councilmanic District in accordance 15 with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of 16 The Philadelphia Code. 17 A resolution authorizing 18 the Philadelphia Land Bank to 19 dispose of 1212 South 17th Street, 20 1511 South 20th Street, 1904 South, 23rd Street, 1216 South 31st Street, 1911 Gerritt Street, 1932 and 2044 Titan Street, located in the 2nd Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code. A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1601, 1605, 1616, 1618, 1620 North 16th Street located in the 5th Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 310, 313, 503, 505 Diamond Street; 304, 309, 311, 323, 512 West Susquehanna Avenue; 509, 511, 534, 536 West Dauphin Street; 447 West Norris Street; 516, 518, Edgley Street; 2054, 2151 North 5th Street; 2049, 2138, 2236, 2252, 2254, North Reese Street; 2210, 2212, 2233, 2306, 2308, 2310, 2312 North Leithgow Street; 2202, 2204 North Orkney Street; 2206 North Orianna Street; 2305, 2307, 2309 North Lawrence Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code. A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2726 North 15th located in the 8th Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code. A resolution appointing Bekir Gunaydin to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District. A resolution appointing Felicia Wilson to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District. A resolution appointing Ken Weller to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District. And a resolution 6 appointing Kya Kerner to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District. There are no further 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 Dr. Anthony Phillips.

Thank you, Council President. Good morning, everyone. I have no bills or resolutions for introduction today.

Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.

Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one privileged resolution on your behalf.

Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolution.

A privileged resolution recognizing the women of the Philadelphia Sheriff's Office during Women's History Month 2026 for their tireless service, sacrifice and invaluable contributions to the safety and well-being of the City of Philadelphia.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair acknowledges Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.

Good morning, Council President. Today I have two bills and two non-privileged resolutions.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bills and resolutions.

An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Ludlow Street, South 41st Street, West Girard Avenue and North 48th Street.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Baltimore Avenue, Cobbs Creek Parkway, a SEPTA Regional Railroad Right-Of-Way and Cobbs Creek.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution also naming the intersection of 40th and Chestnut Street as "Darcenia Burrell Way" to honor the life and legacy of Darcenia V. Burrell and her lasting contributions to the community.

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 the 5100 block of Chester Avenue as "Paul Ellis Hill Way" to honor the life, legacy and community impact of Paul Ellis Hill in the Kingsessing neighborhood.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr.

Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one bill 4 and one privileged resolution.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bill 9 and resolution.

An ordinance removing the parking lane and prohibiting stopping on the south side of Cinnaminson Street, from Mitchell Street to Pechin Street.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a privileged resolution Honoring the Schools and Principals of the Fourth Council District for Their Ongoing Commitment to Coordination and Staying Informed Through Monday Morning Roll Call Meetings.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Landau.

Good morning, Council President, colleagues, the public. Today I offer three privileged resolutions.

Thank you very much, Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the resolutions.

A privileged resolution declaring March 16 - March 20, 2026 as National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week in the City of Philadelphia.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Public Health and Human Services to hold hearings examining the state of the LGBTQ+ health in Philadelphia.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a resolution recognizing March 31, 2026 as Transgender Day of Visibility in the City of Philadelphia, a day to celebrate and recognize the achievements and contributions of Transgender people, and to lift up the joy, light and laughter that Transgender people experience and bring into our communities.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.

Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one bill, one privileged resolution and one non-privileged resolution.

Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the bill and resolutions.

An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions," and amending Section 14-604 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Accessory Uses and Structures" to provide for notice to owners and residents of a building regarding dwelling units licensed for limited lodging on the property, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution 14 authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1601, 1605, 1616, 1618, 1620 North 16th Street located in the 5th Councilmanic District 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 March 24, 2026 as National Cheesesteak Day in the City of Philadelphia. (Applause.)

This includes vegan cheesesteaks? This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Harrity.

Hello, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today.

Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Rourke.

Thank you, Mr. President. Nothing today.

Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.

Thank you, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions today.

Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Brian O'Neill.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions. Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla.

Thank you, Mr. President. Five non-privileged resolutions.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions -- Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

A non-privileged resolution 11 authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 3001 Martha Street now subdivided, resulting in the creation of individual 15 parcels known as 3011, 3013, 3015, 16 3017, 3019, 3021, 3023, 3025, 3027, 17 3029, 3031, 3033, 3035, 3037, 3039, 18 3041, 3043, 3045, 3047 and 3049 19 Martha Street located in the 1st 20 Councilmanic District, in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.

This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee.

That's final passage. I'm sorry.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

It's non-privileged.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.

Sorry. And a non-privileged resolution 20 appointing Bekir Gunaydin to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution 6 appointing Felicia Wilson to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution 15 appointing Ken Weller to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution 24 appointing Kya Kerner to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.

Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution.

Chief Clerk, please read the title of the privileged resolution.

A privileged resolution honoring Dr. Khine Zaw Arthur, President and Chief Executive Officer, Officer of the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia, for her leadership, entrepreneurial achievements and commitment to advancing economic opportunity and community empowerment in the City of Philadelphia.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. And for the record, the four appointment bills introduced by Member Squilla are actually resolutions. They will be referred to the appropriate committee for the record. Thank you. Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill and one non-privileged resolution today.

Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the bill and resolution.

An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver a deed to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, conveying fee simple title to a certain tract of city-owned land with buildings and improvements situated on 5928-30 Germantown Avenue in the 8th Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution 21 authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2726 North 15th Street located in the 8th Councilmanic District 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. The next order of business is reports from committees. 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 10 bills with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the report.

The Committee on Streets and Services to which were referred the following bills: Bill No. 250844, an ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on West Lippincott Street, between 22nd Street and 23rd Street, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 251068, an ordinance amending Chapter 12-3000 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Use of An Automated Red Light Enforcement System To Prevent Red Light Violations" by authorizing the installation of red light enforcement systems at the intersection of School House Lane and Henry Avenue, all under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 251069, an ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Adams Avenue between Wingohocking Street and Frankford Avenue as well as Leiper Street between Adams Avenue and Ruan Street. Bill No. 251102, an ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 1001 South 10th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260025, an ordinance authorizing the installation, ownership and maintenance of various encroachments along the 300 block of South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260095, an ordinance authorizing the installation, ownership and maintenance of an elevator encroachment in the vicinity of 3400 Aramingo Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19134, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260115, an ordinance authorizing Mukeshkumar Patel, owner and operator of the newsstand at the northwest corner of 34th Street and Convention Avenue and civic Center Boulevard to construct, use and maintain conduits in, under and across the Northwest corner of 34th Street and Convention Avenue and Civic Center Boulevard for the purpose of supplying electric service to said newsstand, under certain terms and conditions. Bill No. 260131, an ordinance authorizing the City of Philadelphia to install, own and maintain right-of-way encroachments on the 7600, 7700 and 7800 blocks of Ogontz Avenue, under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 260132, an ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on Hermit Street between Manor Street and Manayunk Avenue. And Bill No. 260161, an ordinance authorizing the installation, ownership and maintenance of a right-of-way encroachments in various parts of the City, under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Streets and Services, Council President.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young for a motion.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the first reading of these bills today 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 these 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.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity for a report from the Committee on Labor and Civil Service.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Labor and Civil Service reports out one bill with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you very much, Will the Chief Clerk please read the report.

The Committee on Labor and Civil Service to which was referred the following bill, Bill No. 251099: An ordinance amending Title of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Officers and Employees," to provide for compensation of the Director of Office Prison Oversight and members of the Philadelphia Prison Community Oversight Board, and amending Title of The 10 Philadelphia Code, entitled 11 "Miscellaneous," to add a new 12 chapter providing for the powers 13 and duties of the Office of Prison 14 Oversight and Philadelphia Prison 15 Community Oversight Board and the 16 manner in which other officers, 17 employees and agencies shall 18 fulfill their respective 19 responsibilities with respect to 20 the Office and Board, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation. There are no further bills to report out from the Committee on Labor and Civil Service, Council President.

Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity for a motion.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading this day of the bill 17 just read into the record.

Thank you very much. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of the bill just read by the Chief Clerk 2ND READING at today's session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. This bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committees with the suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for the next session of Council. 2ND READING As there are no 3 additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion regarding the 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: Nos. 260218, 260219, 250329-A, 250330-A, 250843-AA, 260021, 260021, 260022, 260055, 260073 and 260074. The following bills and resolutions on the Calendar are being held: 250768, 250807 and 250980-A. 251025 is being withdrawn.

Thank you. Before considering these bills and resolutions, we will consider public comment 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 Council 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 each will 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 speaking, you will see a green light on the podium. When 30 seconds are 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. First person, I will take a minute of personal privilege to ask to come to public comment is Marnie Larnie -- Marnie Loughery Harrity. (Witness approached podium.)

Thank you, Council President. Many of you know today is March 19th or St. Joseph's Day. Many of you know my husband is Councilmember Jim Harrity. He always talks about Senator Buddy Cianfrani, whose birthday is today. Senator Cianfrani father's birthday is today. My grandfather was very good friends with them and it's a coincidence that my parents are married 61 years today. With that, Councilmember Harrity was born 54 years ago today. (Applause.)

Many of you know that Jim is a fighter and Jim stands up. Well, that's because Jim was a breech birth. So if anybody knows what that means, you can understand where he comes from. I would like to thank Jim for telling his story many times of recovery, for letting people know that they deserve and need a second chance, for becoming a father to my children. At that time, one was a junior in high school and one was a freshman in college, so that was a big commitment, and three grandchildren to now all three of ours, Fox who is 4, Aiden at 16 who got his class ring today, and Jordan James, 4 months old. I love you. We love you and we are so proud of you and the commitment that you have made to our family and to the City of Philadelphia for the work that you do. We love you, babe. (Applause.)

Aww, that's what's up. Happy birthday, Member Harrity. (Applause.)

Always good to see you, Marnie. Chief Clerk.

Will William Smalls, Jeremy Blatstein, John McCauley, Baba Renfrow and Nicole, please make your way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Baba Renfrow.

Good morning, everybody. My name is William Small from West Philadelphia, born and raised, former United States Marine, three tours of combat duty. Today I'm here to respectfully object to the Ordinance 250807. I understand the importance of parks and public spaces. We all want a better, cleaner, more livable city, but I do not agree with the way the ordinance gives the city such broad power to acquire private property, especially through eminent domain. This bill allows the city to take land condemned or otherwise without clearly defining limits or protections. The kind of language is too open-ended. It gives the government the ability to take property from people who may not want to sell, people who have built lives, their businesses, the futures in the city. What makes it even more concerning is that the land can be leased out to another organization to manage. We've been through this circle already with Germantown High School when the city sold it for $100,000 to somebody from Virginia, and they denied several investors from Philadelphia. We talking about real people here, not just parcels on the map, homeowners, small business owners, families. These are people who deserve transparency, fairness and a real say to what happens to the property in this city. But beyond that, I want to talk about priorities, because right now in the city we have bigger issues that need attention. One of these issues is our public school system that is struggling. In many cases, it's failing the kids. And the charter school system is not better. I coach football at a high school that's a charter school. A lot of employers today don't even value -- thank you. (Applause.)

For the record. Bill 14 No. 250807 is on hold. Thank you.

Good morning. Jeremy Blatstein, speaking on all bills and resolutions. First, the Safe Homes bill last week, I said it wasn't ready. I'm not sure what's going on with it now, but the bill 22 obviously had issues at the hearing and the Sunshine Act. My concerns still stand though about the Philadelphia Sheriff's Department and the eviction process. Have you gone to tenant landlord court? Do you understand how broken the process is? It currently takes to 8 weeks just to get a lockout date 9 after getting a judgment. Six 10 months minimum, start to finish for 11 a valid eviction. 12 If housing is a priority 13 for Mayor Parker and this Council, 14 fix that broken process first 15 before adding new rules on top of 16 it. Hold the Sheriff's Office accountable. Second, Turn the Key, 30 affordable homes were transmitted this week by the Mayor. Turn the Key is your program. This Council passed it. The Mayor funded it. The Land Bank Board approves qualified projects. The affordability is set, $280,000; $185,000 to the buyer after subsidies; up to 100% AMI for city workers. That's the program you designed. What's the outcome? $1,300 a month mortgages. Average AMI is 57%. Turn the Key is working. Zero displacement, turning vacant lots into generational wealth. This project meets every requirement. It was qualified. What's the problem? Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada and councilmanic prerogative. Yeah, any member of this body could introduce this resolution today. The land is there. The money is allocated. The program exists. The only thing missing is the bill. If you say you care about affordable housing, introduce the bill. And last but not least, we're talking about SEPTA. It's crucial to the City of Philadelphia, fund SEPTA, make sure that the system is running efficiently and support the SEPTA police to enforce the quality-of- life issues. Ride the ride. Grow Philly to 2 milli. Thank you. MR. McCAULEY: Good morning, everybody. My name is John Alonte McCauley. I'm with a grassroots organization called Flip 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 Bill No. 19 250330 or what's part of the Safe Healthy Homes Act, I would like to ask Philadelphia, are you tired of voting Democrat yet? This is what communism looks like. You work extremely hard to save your pennies, but buy some property and you can't dictate when you want to evict a tenant. Do you really own your property or not? But we know what Philly Democrat politicians love communism for, because they let comrade Mayor Cherelle Parker raise the communist China flag in the birthplace of America. Tenants can already sue or simply move if it's a problem. But laws after laws scare away independent contractors and create more government- controlled housing. These laws breed entitlement, bad actors not paying rent, waiting for court dates, squatting on somebody else's property just like Governor Josh Shapiro is doing right now to his neighbors. To the landlords of Philadelphia, when you raise the rent higher upfront to cover eviction hassles, I understand it. How are you going to tell a small business owner what to do with their own property? How many bad tenants have we seen, always playing loud music, fighting, harassing neighbors, running drugs out of properties, doing drugs in someone else's property? Are you a small business owner or a caretaker? Are they tenants or are they your children? If the Department of Licenses and Inspections isn't serving good-acting tenants properly, then we don't need new laws. We need to restructure the Department of Licenses and Inspections. Over 45 million taxpayer dollars proposed for L&I in Fiscal Year 2026 and they can't return a phone call. Racist Democrat President LBJ said, I'mma have these niggers voting Democrat for the next 200 years. But you can change that in November --

Excuse me, excuse me -- MR. McCAULEY: Stacy Garrity for Governor. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Excuse me. Thank you. Please don't use that language in these chambers. Have a wonderful day. MR. McCAULEY: I can say what I want --

Have a great day. Next.

Baba Renfrow, Nicole, Christopher Mansfield, Nadine Herring, May Booth, Miguel Duma -- Dalmau and Shamus Brennan, please make your way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Thank you to City Council and all of their distinguished guests. My name is Baba Taye Renfrow. And on behalf of the Renfrow family, the Osage Pine community, we would like to thank our City Councilperson Jamie Gauthier and her office and her team for putting forth this resolution to rename the 6200 block of Osage Avenue after my father, Gerald Wayne Renfrow as Gerald Wayne Renfrow Way. I'd like to also thank Lefty, Brother Lefty here to the right of me. He really led the charge in bringing all the paperwork down to the City Councilperson's chambers here to push everything along. Our Brother Arnett, I would like to thank him. I'd like to thank others that also helped in getting the petition signed. We'd like to thank Original Works of Art, our brother's nonprofit organization for also leading the charge. This is something special to me, my siblings, my mother and my family. Our father was a leader in our community for over 40 years to help make sure that the residents of the Osage Pine community stayed in their homes, was able to have decent housing amidst the MOVE bombing of 1985. So with that, we'd like to thank you. Thank you for everything that you've done. We truly appreciate it. It will never be forgotten. I'd like to thank everyone here for your time and consideration today for this resolution. To God be the glory. (Applause.)

Good morning. My name is Chris Mansfield. It feels weird being on this side. I'm used to, like, being on the other side shooting so it feels different. But I just wanted to say this is a great thing happening for Mrs. Renfrow. I've been on that block for about six years now, my wife and I, who's over there. Hello, Wife. And I got to meet Mr. Renfrow. He was a great person, did great things for the block. And I just wanted to say I'm happy this is getting approved, so that's it. (Applause.)

Good morning. I'm Nadine Herring. Thank you for allowing me to be here. I am the proud Black mother of a child who had the nerve to tell me that I needed to unlearn everything I thought I knew about him, his identity, his humanity, his reality. This was when he was only 6. At every pediatrician appointment, my three cisgender sons were openly unquestioned about their development while my one trans child was therapeutically abused. I moved my family out of two states just to ensure that he saw tomorrows, when doctors and relatives rejected him based on how they interpreted his trans experience as a medical affront and his person as a reason to minimize him for sport. I chose to leave my career as an educator of 30-plus years. I taught and served students kindergarten through college, but I had to leave because I refused to co-sign educators punishing children for just living their truths and wanting to be seen. I now serve at the Attic Youth Center because the fork in the road speaks to action versus non-action. Trans Day of Visibility is just the start of righting these wrongs, and it is a strong reminder that equity is not optional. It's a damn birthright. Thank you. (Applause.)

Good morning. My name is Aster Carroll and I'm an education specialist at Mazzoni Center here in Philadelphia, and I'm joined by my colleague May Booth, who is Mazzoni Center's Assistant Director of Community Engagement. We come to you not only as representatives of Mazzoni, but as two LGBTQ+ people who have experienced barriers to affirming health care. In case you don't know about Mazzoni, we have a 46-year history of providing quality, comprehensive health and wellness services in an LGBTQ-focused environment, while preserving the dignity and improving the quality of life of the individuals we serve. We deliver on that mission through a range of services, including primary care, specialist care, HIV prevention and treatment, STI screening and treatment, behavioral health and psychiatric care. In 2025, we served over 10,000 patients through 31,500 visits. We know that LGBTQ individuals are disproportionately impacted by a wide range of health challenges when compared to their cisgender and heterosexual peers. They are more likely to delay care, experience mental health concerns and encounter barriers within these health care systems. These disparities are not inevitable. They are driven by gaps in access, representation and inclusion that must be addressed.

I --

Excuse me. Will you be able to state your name for the record please.

Yeah, of course. My name is May Booth -- or Aster?

Aster Carroll.

Thank you.

I'm a little taller than Aster, so excuse me for moving up the mic. But as two people working on the Community Engagement Team at Mazzoni Center, we have the honor of hearing directly from patients, clients and community members about the impact of affirming health care on their journeys. Their stories show clearly that when people feel seen, respected and safe, they are more likely to seek care, stay engaged and experience better health outcomes. We know that city government plays a critical role in shaping community health through the policies it advances and the services it supports. Recognizing LGBTQ+ Health Awareness Week is an important and necessary part of that responsibility. This recognition should not be symbolic alone. It reflects a commitment to ensuring that all Philadelphians have access to affirming high-quality health care. When care is inclusive, we reduce disparities and strengthen the health of our entire city. At a time when LGBTQ rights and access to care are being challenged across the country, local leadership matters. We need you all more than ever before. We are grateful to Councilmember Landau for affirming the City of Philadelphia's role as a partner in protecting and expanding access and inclusivity in health care. Thank you. (Applause.)

Good morning. My name is Miguel Dalmau and I live in the 2nd District in South Philadelphia. I'm here in support of Bill No. 250329-A. I support the entire bill, but I want to highlight the proactive inspection program the bill will create. The inspection program ensures that apartments and homes are automatically inspected to make sure they meet certain standards of living. It seems like something that should have been done ages ago, but better late than never I guess. The more I read about the program, the more I understand why landlords in Philadelphia want to see this bill, along with others, fail, like we saw today. They don't want to provide us with the minimum standard of living. They are relying on life getting in the way and on tenants who hesitate to hold them accountable as a way to save money and maintain abhorrent apartment conditions. I have been a victim of negligent landlords myself. I have lived in South Philadelphia for the past three years. And in a short amount of time, I have already had to move once due to bed bugs in a building, and recently had to have the city replace old pipes underneath the pavement in front of my home that wasn't allowing heat to warm my house during the freezing temperatures we've had the last few months. I stayed longer in both situations than I should have because of work, family, kids and honestly, fear. As a longtime activist for social justice, I know firsthand that immigrants and people of color are often afraid that any interaction with government office could lead to negative consequences, even when we are the victims. Even though we should have nothing to worry about, the fear and the trauma never goes away. Landlords know a lot about the people who live under their roofs. By knowing someone's work history, credit score and personal background, they also know people whose vulnerability and who might be willing to file a complaint and those who won't. This bill takes the power away from the greedy landlords and gives it back to the people. Thank you, City Councilmembers, for looking out for us introducing these bill, but please continue to look out for us by implementing them into law and turning them into action. Thank you. (Applause.)

Will Shamus Brennus -- Brennan, David Alexander Jenkins, Melissa Monts, Janet White, Shawmar Pitts and Seneca Grant, please make your way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Thank you. Shamus Brennan. I'm here today -- I am a tenant attorney. I'm the senior housing attorney at the AIDS Law Project of Pennsylvania where I provide counsel and representation to Philadelphia tenants. I'm here to speak on safe and healthy homes because it's an important step, and I want to thank the Housing committee and the Council as a Whole for their work on this important issue. The current system of voluntary compliance with CRS and other licensing requirements is not working. The tools needed to have tenants hold their landlords accountable to standards that have already been set are needed, so we often see clients facing serious issues, rat infestations, sewage backups, floods, fire alarms going off at all hours. And the tools we have are to beg for changes, to wait to be sued or to move. This disrupts communities and disempowers Philadelphians. The changes that the legislation makes clarify the role and responsibility of the tenant in advocating for themselves and importantly, it shortens the period over which these violations can be resolved. I want to share briefly one situation which my clients faced, in which the CRS system can be seen as it currently is. My clients were living in an apartment in West Philadelphia. They had had a fire in an adjoining unit where they discovered the fire extinguishers did not work. A few months later their landlord signed a certificate of rental suitability saying that the fire code was fine. Two years later, they finally received an order of the court holding that that was an invalid CRS. They waited two years, going to court, being dragged away from their work in order to hear justice. We need something faster. Thank you. (Applause.)

Mr. President, members and guests, David Alexander Jenkins and I rise in support of Resolution 250330. As I traveled down Broad Street this morning with my eyes affixed on the clock of City Hall, as I moved through the gates of justice into the halls of promise, up the granite steps to this chamber where promise and justice come to meet, I was deep in an old Negro spiritual that would not leave my lips or mind. Fear not, I'm not going to sing today. It is a spiritual that on its face seems a humble prayer of access, a prayer of mercy and divine providence. It's a hymn that pleads, No harm have I done you on my knees. At the time of this hymn's birth when this America was but a breath, these words were sung in the fields by people enslaved who understood a kind of tabernacle had been prepared for them. You see, on your knees was a call to gather in the safety of clandestinity, and we know what kind of fear that creates, don't we? To gather and to wait for a savior by the way of a conductor who would come when they knew it was safe. I'm almost certain that Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke knows this greatest of spirituals because he has shown up as a conductor to conduct people from the meetings held, indeed in public, to the halls of a promise and justice and to deliver them by law. And in doing so, he has made many an overseer (inaudible), excuse me, he has made many a landlord mad. Members, people are on their knees. Both metaphorically and literally, people are pleading to be protected from the retaliatory injustices of unwanted evictions, pleading for the right to assemble, pleading in peaceful association, to participate in legal investigations, the right to be free from predatory behavior, behavior that would ask them to choose between the right to safe housing and no housing at all. Brothers and sisters of love, people are pleading. Philadelphia has a legacy of ushering in the protections and freedoms of emancipation. Wherever shackles exist in systems of housing and otherwise that face the people to come on their knees, it is the duty of this body to rise up to their feet, to rise above hesitation and above fear and to meet this plea and to deliver the promise of justice within the full authority you have been given. And so today, Reverend O'Rourke, I thank you for the legislation to come here as a conductor. Councilmember, pass this as soon as it finally comes before you. I yield back. (Applause.)

Melissa Monts, Janet White, Shawmar Pitts, Seneca Grant, please make your way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

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

If the members of City Council can hear my voice, please return back to the City Council floor. Please resume.

The Honorable Council President, distinguished members of the City Council and everyone here today, my name is Khine Zaw Arthur, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia, representing over 13,000 Asian- owned businesses here in the city. I stand before you today during Women's History Month truly humbled and overwhelmed with gratitude for this beautiful resolution and this unexpected honor. As a first-generation Burmese immigrant and a proud mother, I never dreamed my journey from the streets of Yungho to the vibrant neighborhoods of Philadelphia would bring me to this moment in the city I love very much. Everything I have done, from supporting girls and women, survivors of violence and human trafficking, to creating economic opportunities through the Asian American Chamber of Commerce has only been possible because of the incredible people who share our passion to build a brighter tomorrow for every family and every community. This recognition is especially meaningful because it was championed by Councilmember Nina Ahmad, a trailblazing leader whose remarkable impact has transformed Philadelphia. As the first South Asian American, first Muslim woman and first immigrant in recent history to serve on this Council, she has opened doors for all of us. As Deputy Mayor during Mayor Kenney's administration, she became the city's first Asian American cabinet member and created the Department of Public Engagement. Through her leadership in the National Organization for Women, she has fought tirelessly to end sexual harassment, protect nail salon workers, confront human trafficking and secure living wages for low-income women. Her work on anti-bullying initiatives, trauma- informed approaches to gun violence and support for small businesses has lifted countless immigrant families and strengthened our entire city. This honor is not just for me. It belongs to every woman and every ally who believes that when we lift each other up, we all rise together. Thank you, Philadelphia, from the bottom of my heart. I am deeply honored. And I promise to keep working alongside every one of you, especially leaders like Councilmember Ahmad, to create the better future that our children deserve. Thank you. (Applause.)

Will Nicole Nobles, William Hans, Sean Thornton, Diana Govner, please make your way to the podium. ) INSPECTOR NOBLES: Good morning, Council President. Good morning, Councilmembers. I am Chief Inspector Nicole Nobles from the Philadelphia Sheriff's Office. Today I would like to share some insight about the woman in our office. In 2020 Sheriff Rochelle Bilal became the first woman elected to lead the Philadelphia Sheriff's Office in its 181-year history, shattering a significant glass ceiling in the Philadelphia's law enforcement. While she embodies a movement by herself, she has set the standard for us to be an unbreakable force when we all work together. The women of the Sheriff's Office serve in diverse roles, ranging from deputies, civil detectives, to our first ever female canine officer. I manage all specialized units. We all ensure the safety of our courts and the integrity of our judicial system. Beyond traditional law enforcement, our females are working on initiatives and housing stability and food insecurity, illustrating that public safety is about caring for the community. Women deputies of the Philadelphia Sheriff's Office's unique challenges on the first lines, but continue to demonstrate extraordinary professionalism, courage and dedication to the city of the residents. The women are not just a part of the office. They are essential to the progress. Thank you. ) INSPECTOR HANS: Good morning, Council President and Councilmembers. Thank you for your service and thank you for your time. My name is William Hans. I am a Chief Inspector of Court Operations for the Philadelphia Sheriff's Office, serving in that capacity under the first elected female sheriff in the City and County of Philadelphia, Rochelle Bilal. I would like to speak briefly on the resolution 7 recognizing the women in our office. Our women consistently bring strength that our community desperately needs, communication, empathy, patience and the ability to diffuse situations before they turn violent. Instead of escalating, they listen. Instead of leading with force, they lead with calm authority. This does not make them weaker Officers. This makes them highly effective officers. Women across the country make up around 14% of sworn personnel. This number should increase because our female officers and exempt staff are proof of the success and sustainability they provide. My faith leads me to believe that women are the heart of the family and our female deputies prove day-in and day-out that they are the heartbeat of our office and our deputy family. Thank you for your time. ) DEPUTY THORNTON: Good morning, Council President and City Councilmembers. My name is Sean Thornton, Chief Deputy of Court Operations for the Philadelphia Sheriff's Office. Since Sheriff Rochelle Bilal's election in 2020, she has emphasized recognizing the outstanding contributions of women in our office. Under her leadership, Sheriff Bilal firmly believes that a diverse and inclusive workforce strengthens our ability to serve the people of Philadelphia with integrity and dedication. Women contribute across our office in many roles, such as courtroom security, transportation, civil enforcement and the warrant unit. Additionally, one young woman served both, in the K9 unit and is an active member of the United States Army. Furthermore, we have an outstanding team of women among our professional staff who work diligently to ensure that the Sheriff's Office is functioning well. Their commitment and expertise are vital in keeping our operations running smoothly, from managing administrative duties to coordinating essential programs and services. Their dedication inspire their colleagues to strengthen the foundation of our department, reinforcing our mission to serve the community with excellence. Moreover, I am proud to see women advance into leadership roles.

As our workplace culture has become more collaborative and supportive, we will continue to build on this momentum, ensuring that all voices are heard and every member has the opportunity to contribute their unique talents to our mission. I encourage you all to support this resolution in recognition of our Sheriff and the outstanding women in our office (inaudible) acknowledgement for their contribution. Thank you for your continued support as we work together to foster a more equitable and effective Sheriff's Office for the City of Philadelphia. Thank you. )

Will Deonna Govner, Katrina Temple, Naiymah Sanchez, Lynn Landes and Orena Rogers, please make your way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good morning. My name is Deonna Govner Consul, and it is for that reason that I chose not to get involved with politics. However, ironically I am here today to speak on behalf of a group of citizens of Philadelphia who are very important, and those citizens are our elderly who have lived and owned homes that were inherited. My grandmother is an 82-year-old citizen, and she is also a sibling of one of 13 who were born and raised in Germantown. I'm here on behalf of her older brother who is 84 years old, and he currently lives in the home that his sister was born in. The home was built in 1902 and purchased in 1925. No major repairs have ever been done, except for a furnace that was installed in 2008. The house still has the original terracotta piping for the sewage as well as knob and tubing electric system. L&I was not established until 1951. Currently today his house does not fall under any of the current safety codes or permits or anything that the city would deem proper for him to live under. We have already gone through the system of BSRP to get him approved. He has been approved to get everything that they cover completed. However, the union reps that they sent out, the roofers, they have sent him a letter stating that in order for him to get the work done, he needs to come up with $12,000. He is a senior. He is an 84-year-old Navy veteran who lives on a fixed income. He hasn't had running water or sewage for about four or five years. He's currently been charged for a fire hydrant that froze and broke and the water collected in front of his property as well as a pipe bursting in his basement after the water was already shut off. So I am in support of the amendment to the properties of licenses and owner accountability, but I would like to question what L&I's accountability is going to be for seniors who live in homes before these certain codes and everything were ever established. As a veteran and someone who is on a fixed income, he has lived in fear of being told that he is not capable to live on his own, even though he is of mind, body and of physical presence. He's been living in squalor afraid that because he can't afford to fix his house, that he's going to be put out and put into a home. And I would like to know what the city is doing to protect those citizens. (Applause.)

So good morning. Can you hear me? There we go because I'm tall. All right. So good morning or early afternoon, Councilmember and neighbors. My name is Naiymah Sanchez, she/her pronouns. And I am here today as a proud Philadelphian and as a transgender person whose life, like so many others, is shaped by the systems we build and the care we choose to extend one another. As I begin, I want to stay grounded or I want to ground myself in gratitude because in some cities around this country, there are multiple efforts at every level of government to undermine and outlaw TLGBQ+ protections and access to care, pushing to erase our mere existence. So today when this body boasts to recognize and raise awareness with these two pieces of resolutions, naming LGBTQ Health Awareness Week and Transgender Day of Visibility on the record here in Philadelphia is a commitment to health justice, a commitment to safety and a commitment to a just Philly. And it says to TLGBQ+ Philadelphians, that your city values your life and is invested in the community with a promise that these resolutions alone is not the finish line, but is the starting point. Because for many of us, especially transgender people, access to health care is not a simple appointment. It is a negotiation of safety. It is bracing ourselves for assumptions, for dismissal, for having to explain our humanity before we can even talk about our symptoms. The data in this resolution tells part of the story, because behind every percentage is a person who delayed care, a person who left the clinic without answers, a person who wondered if their life was valued in that room 22 and in the spaces throughout community they call home. City Councilmembers, you have the power to change that story, by being proactive to ensure we are taking care of all of our neighbors, celebrating the unique identities that fuel and define what makes our city great. This resolution or these resolutions names organizations for doing lifesaving work, right. But it should not fall on these organizations or organizers to do it. And so, I know my time is running short and I want to say thank you with my gratitude to each and every one of you who are still here. And I ask that you stay committed to bringing a just Philly for all of us. Thank you. (Applause.)

Good morning. I'm Lynn Landes of Philly's Republican Network. I support the expansion of our park system. However, I do not support Bill 250807 nor Business Improvement Districts such as the Center City District, because in many experts' opinion the creation of Business Improvement Districts unconstitutionally privatizes public property and government responsibilities. Much of the public does not realize that Business Improvement Districts have the right to take out loans, manage property, condemn property and tax property owners, all without meaningful requirement for public oversight, public meetings or public comment. Business Improvement Districts commit the very travesties upon which the American Revolution was fought, tyranny, taxation without representation and censorship. Yet City Council seems unconcerned. And on that matter of censorship, we should not be surprised, as City Council and city departments systematically censor the public at every official government meeting by restricting public comments to agenda items only, thereby preventing the public from freely airing their grievances. That is censorship and in violation of the First Amendment of our Constitution as well as Pennsylvania Sunshine Act. The 250th anniversary of our nation's Declaration of Independence is a golden opportunity for Philadelphia city government to change course, right these wrongs and give its citizens something truly to celebrate. Thank you. UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: Good morning, City Council President Kenyatta Johnson and all City Council and everyone. My name is Orena, as you already know. I'm here to speak in reference to a greater, cleaner and greener city in reference to the recycling and being a block captain. Yesterday I received some news that our team leader that the city hired, those individuals are not allowed to come out after 3 o'clock to the community to speak with the people in the community that work during the day. At 3 o'clock their shift is over, and underneath no circumstances will (inaudible) or Ms. Jones allow them to come out into the community and speak with the people in our community in reference to how they can help us and assist us to keep the city clean, as the Mayor wants, one block at a time. In order for us to do our jobs effectively and to keep our neighborhoods clean, if we have any questions or issues, we should be allowed to speak to our team leaders, whether it's in the 1st district, 2nd District, 3rd District, 4th, 5th, 7th or 12th, or even up to the 35th District. We should have access to those individuals after hours. As supervisors and the managers who have access to city vehicles that can come out to the meetings and bring supplies and pamphlets and answer those questions are the same ones who are telling their team leaders who have access to us during regular business hours that they can't come out. Since they can't come out, why don't the supervisors come out since they have a city vehicle and then they can bring out the supplies? So I'll come to you as a registered voter and who voted for the majority of you, City Council and City Council President Kenyatta Johnson, you know, I'm coming to you asking you for help, to get those people out in our neighborhoods. April 11th, the Mayor wants us to be out in the neighborhoods and clean up, in which I am. And I just want to know if we can get those people to come to bring us our supplies. If they can't come out afterhours, how do we get our supplies to clean? Thank you.

Thank you. (Applause.)

Well, Keith Crippen, Ogbonna Hagins, Queen Judith Robinson, Tashelle Matthews and David Edwards, please make your way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good morning, everyone. My name is Ogbonna Hagins. And by now, you know I'm a fourth-generation chattel slavery survivor. Today Council is considering Resolution 15 260021, a technical measure adjusting realty transfer tax exemptions. This shows Council can act decisively when it wants to. But if we can move on tax matters, why is no one speaking decisively or acting decisively for American Freedmen. For those who don't know, American Freedmen are linear descendants of chattel slavery. To call us Black Americans and all that, but our legal designation is American Freedmen. Not one candidate yesterday at Berean Institute spoke about the American Freedmen. They spoke about every other subject except the people who built this city and saved this country in the Civil War. There's something very strange --

Mr. Ogbonna Hagins, tie --

I'm getting to it. Let me do my thing.

Yup. Tie it into the taxes, sir.

Now, I agree with Resolution 260021 and the importance of moving forward on matters that affect the city. But that same decisiveness must extend to the needs of the American Freedmen, Council President. How about that, Council President? You wanted to be a sponsor for the Office of Freedmen Affairs and we're still waiting for a decision --

I sponsored the hearing.

And you've never mentioned the Office of Freedmen Affairs. You mentioned everything else, but you've never mentioned your people, 7th Ward. So why, we need --

Sir, can you speak on the taxes.

Yes, I will finally finish up --