Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 24, 2018 11:10 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN ALLAN DOMB COUNCILMAN DEREK S. GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILWOMAN HELEN GYM COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN CHERELLE L. PARKER COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN AL TAUBENBERGER MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting May 24, 2018
Good morning. Good morning, everyone. We're going to get started. There's a lot of excitement today. It will be our first of many championships. I ask for a little quiet, please, on the side over there so we can get started. Thank you very much for your cooperation. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Pastor Michael Rzonca of St. Jerome's Parish in Winchester Park. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Henon. I would ask all members, guests, and visitors to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests, and visitors rise.)
My friends, let us invoke the name of our God and ask that God, our creator, be present to us at this time. Oh, God, we gather here to ask your guidance and support as we carry out Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 for our constituents, the people of Philadelphia. Enlighten us as we consider the various needs and concerns of our people. Let us be true to our wonderful city, the Cradle of Liberty, the City of Brotherly Love, where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States of America were born. We share a great history of over 200 years of forming and fostering a city which truly cares about its people, extending the care in myriad ways such as in helping veterans and opening doors for those whose conditions of living have seen too many doors close in front of them, in seeking to inform people about the programs available to facilitate improvement in their lives. As we have called upon you to be present to us, give us the foresight and the courage to respond to all that will continue to make this city great. We pray this in your most holy Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 (Amen.)
Thank you so much, Pastor, for those inspiring words. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you. Our next order of business is approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 17, 2018, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 17, 2018 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 (No response.)
The ayes have it, and the meeting of Thursday, May 17 is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence. I'd ask if anyone with a cell phone or any other device that makes any kind of noise, please turn it off at this moment. Thank you very much. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leave of absence today.
The Chair thanks the gentlemen. The Chair now recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for Stated Meeting May 24, 2018
The Chair thanks the gentleman. At this time I would like to take a moment to thank everyone who has taken time out of their busy day to come down to witness their government in action. We genuinely appreciate you being here. We hope your stay here today is a pleasurable one and a knowledgeable one, so much so that you come back again. So, again, thank you so much for being here today. Drum roll. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson, who will present a resolution congratulating -- I said drum roll, not feedback -- congratulating the Philadelphia Eagles. Would Don Smolenski and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. (Applause.) (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.) Stated Meeting May 24, 2018
So today we have the great privilege to stand as members of Council to honor and show support for our Super Bowl LII Eagles champions. Let's give them a real big round of applause. (Applause.)
It's been a long time coming. For all my Dallas fans, I just want to publicly say y'all haven't had a championship in the last ten years. So this is a new generation. And beyond that, we want to acknowledge the work that the Eagles have been doing throughout the City of Philadelphia. Most recently we partnered with Connor Barwin in dedicating a multi-athletic field in South Philadelphia, our first turf football field. And most recently they also had an opportunity to unveil their foundation for autism, and I know my colleague Councilman Derek Green was very involved in that process. And so beyond being Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 champions, they're also champions when it comes to contributing to the quality of life here in the City of Philadelphia. And so I want to ask for my good friend from South Philadelphia, Councilman Mark Squilla, who will take a moment to lead us in that great Super Bowl Championship Eagles theme song, cheer. And so on the count of three -now, y'all won't get me like Senator Williams, but it goes something like this. (Councilmembers sing "Fly, Eagles, Fly.") (Applause.)
So this citation reads: Congratulating the Philadelphia Eagles for their historic victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LII. (Applause.)
Whereas, Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 a cornerstone Philadelphia institution. During the tenure of its owner, Jeffrey Lurie, and its President, Don Smolenski, the Eagles organization has been a model franchise. The organization's values are reflected in its deep engagement with fans and community members in its charitable work with children and notably in the players themselves. And I would like to acknowledge, we know behind every strong executive, there's even a stronger executive assistant. So Liz is the power behind the throne. I want to take a moment to acknowledge her, give her a round of applause as well. (Applause.)
Whereas, the team members, brought together under the leadership of executive vice president, Howie Roseman, embody a hardworking and resilient spirit that Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 people of this great City. The strength of the team's character was exemplified this season by players' advocacy for social justice, which received national attention. These efforts included advocacy for criminal justice reform by Malcolm Jenkins and donation of an entire season's salary by Chris Long for his educational equality, and you know that hungry dogs run faster; and
And whereas, the Philadelphia Eagles entered Fall 2017 as a contender for a division title in the NFC East. Their perennial rivals, the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Giants, were also predicted to have strong teams, however, and the Eagles came into the season prepared for a dogfight; and
Whereas, second-year head coach Doug Pederson and veterans such as Jason Peters, Zach Ertz, Malcolm Jenkins, Jason Kelce, Fletcher Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Cox, and returning quarterback Carson Wentz were joined in the off-season by new additions Torrey Smith, Alshon Jeffery, LeGarrette Blount, and Chris Long. Meanwhile, backup quarterback Nick Foles made a return to the Eagles, which would prove a critical addition later on; and
Whereas, with the City of passionate fans behind them, to say the least -- we do have the best fans in the country -- the Eagles began their season by winning ten of their first eleven games. During this stretch, the team defeated each of their NFC rivals, with two victories coming against Washington; and
The Seventh has three playgrounds from the Eagles, I must say, just for the record, Moffet, Potter-Thomas, and last year we built Elkins. Thank you very much. And we are working with Connor Barwin for Waterloo. So thank you very much, Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 loss on the road against the Seattle Seahawks, the Eagles beat the Los Angeles Rams, but only after losing Carson Wentz to a season-ending knee injury. Prior to his injury, Wentz was considered a leading candidate for the NFL's Most Valuable Player Award. With All-Pro tackle Jason Peters already sidelined with a season-ending injury, the Eagles' Super Bowl dreams were suddenly in doubt;
And whereas, in his first game as starting quarterback, Nick Foles made the City proud as he threw for 237 yards and 4 touchdowns in a 34 to 29 victory over the rival New York Giants. Foles took on starting quarterback duties for the rest of the season, and in spite of critics' doubts, lost only one game; and
Whereas, despite finishing their season with 13 wins against only 3 losses, a record that Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 top seed in the NFC playoffs, the Eagles were still dismissed by most commentators as they entered the playoffs. These doubts only fueled the team and its fans, who embraced their underdog status; and
Whereas, against the odds, the Eagles beat both the Atlanta Falcons in the NFC Divisional Round and the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC Championship. These wins earned the Eagles their third trip to the Super Bowl, and their first Super Bowl appearance since the tragic defeat at the hands of the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XXXIX in 2005; and
Whereas, heading into the Super Bowl after a convincing win against the Vikings in their previous game, the Eagles still maintained their underdog status against the favored New England Patriots. Donning their notorious German Shepherd masks, the team and its fans maintained Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 season's Super Bowl destiny, despite the critics, and shocked the Patriots and the rest of the world with a 41 to 33 victory; and
Whereas, the game featured a number of instantly classic moments in professional football history. Among them were acrobatic touchdown catches by Alshon Jeffery, Corey Clement, whose cousin Donna Clement Jackson works in my staff, and Zach Ertz; a gutsy fourth down conversion in the fourth quarter; a dazzling strip sack by Brandon Graham of Patriots quarterback Tom Brady; and the legendary "Philly Special" play, which resulted in a touchdown pass from tight end Trey Burton to quarterback Nick Foles; and
Whereas, Foles was brilliant throughout the game, passing for 373 yards and three touchdowns, resulting in a stellar 106.1 passer rating. For these contributions, along with his leadership and poise Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 game, he was named Super Bowl MVP; and
Whereas, the victory in Super Bowl LII is the Eagles' first-ever Super Bowl title and the first NFL Championship for the team since 1960 - a full 7 years before the first Super Bowl was played. After the Eagles' win, Philadelphians marked the joyous occasion by pouring into the streets to celebrate the victory with family, neighbors, and friends, celebrating well into the night of February 4th; and
Let me just thank the Eagles, Don Smolenski. Every time there is an event to benefit our nation's veterans, the Eagles come through time and time again. So thank you so much for supporting those who serve in our military and our veterans. Whereas, the championship celebration continued on February 8th, when the City and region descended upon South Broad Street and the Benjamin Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Eagles' victory parade. The scenes of cheering players and fans, all showered in confetti, and the stirring speeches from the victorious players are sure to live on in Philadelphians' memories for decades; and
Whereas, this is really awesome. This is a heck of a thing here. Whereas, these joyous celebrations speak to Philadelphia's identity as the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection, and moreover, they highlight the bravery and dedication of the Philadelphia Police Department, the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management, SEPTA, and other key parade partners, who worked tirelessly to allow Philadelphians to enjoy the festivities safely; and
Whereas, this legislative body celebrates the Philadelphia Eagles with the historic season, on and off the field, and wishes Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 greater heights in 2018 and seasons to come; now, therefore, be it Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia, congratulates the leadership of the Philadelphia Eagles and all associated for their historic victory over who? The New England Patriots. In Super Bowl what? LII. Congratulations. (Applause.)
And the Chair recognizes Don Smolenski for remarks.
Thank you. I have to say it's wonderful to relive the entire season. So thank you very much. As I walked into the Chamber here, I realized that my last visit in here was almost 20 years ago and was not lost on me that during that time, the City Councilmembers and the City of Philadelphia did a lot of work on various legislative matters, all in support of Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Philadelphia, which was Lincoln Financial Field and Citizens Bank Park. And it's always been a private-public partnership, one where the City and the team and really the residents of Philadelphia have all been partners, and the vision and the dream was to bring championships to the City of Philadelphia, and both the Philadelphia Phillies and the Philadelphia Eagles both through Citizens Bank Park and Lincoln Financial Field and support of the entire City of Philadelphia and the region have now brought a World Series title and a Super Bowl championship to the City of Philadelphia. We could not have done it without the support of everyone in this room, everyone in all of municipal government, and obviously without all the support of the amazing fans who have cheered us on over the vast number of years. So it is with extreme pleasure and a privilege to share the championship Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 say thank you for the proclamation today and thank you for all your support. (Applause.)
Where did all the cameras go? I thought they were here for us. It was about the Eagles, huh? All right. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass, who will present a resolution recognizing Eighth District community leaders for their outstanding service. Would Brother Ron Armour, Trapeta Mayson, Keith Schenk, Michelle Kerr Spry, and Pastor Alex Velazquez, Jr., and LeQuyen Vu and those accompanying them please join the Councilwoman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Councilwoman, we have Councilman Taubenberger, Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, Councilwoman Blackwell, Councilman Green, Councilman Oh, and Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
I thought the cameras were here for our community activists. They should have been. Thank you, Councilman Taubenberger. But I just really wanted to take a moment out when you think about the people in our communities that really make it happen, these are the folks in the Northwest, just some of the folks, that when you call them, no matter what time of day or night, when there is something that is happening, when you need help, they are at the ready always. There's never a no, I can't, I'm not able, I won't. They make it happen, and so we wanted to really recognize some of Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 go above and beyond, who put community first always, who look out for not just their neighbor, their neighbor's neighbors and their neighbor's neighbor's neighbors. They look out for entire communities, and we wanted to spend some time this morning just really saying thank you so much for all that you do. And so we have a resolution that reads: Honoring and recognizing Brother Ron Armour, Trapeta Mayson, Keith Schenk, Michelle Kerr Spry, Pastor Alex Velazquez, Jr., and LeQuyen Vu for their significant contributions to advocacy and community service in Northwest Philadelphia. Whereas, Brother Ron Armour has spent over 40 years as a preacher and community activist. He has provided for the religious needs of congregations throughout Philadelphia, serving as a counselor, career coach, spiritual advisor, fundraiser, and volunteer for Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 His community stewardship continues to positively impact the lives of children and families, particularly those at risk or in need; and
Whereas, Trapeta Mayson is a Germantown resident, artist and civic leader committed to artistically and thoughtfully developing and contributing to efforts that positively and sustainably impact communities. She is a member of the Greene Street Artist Cooperative and reads her poetry widely and works extensively conducting creative writing and community engagement workshops. Formerly serving as the Executive Director of Historic Germantown, Trapeta is currently the Division Director of Intensive Behavioral Health Services at COMHAR and serves as the Vice President of the Germantown Services District, member of the Friends of Joseph E. Coleman Northwest Regional Library and Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Outreach Committee on the Mayor's Task Force for Historic Preservation; and
Whereas, Keith Schenk is a youth, public health and safety advocate focusing on violence prevention, civic engagement, and combatting urban blight. He is the founder of One Love Guns Down which seeks to counter the negative impact of community violence and police brutality. Keith also served as a Drug and Alcohol Professional for 20 years and is credited with developing programs to address maladaptive behaviors that lead to recidivism. He also serves as a More Beautiful Philadelphia Block Captain and is currently pioneering #gogreenGermantown as part of an effort to build urban resilience in communities impacted by blight;
And whereas, Michelle Kerr Spry is the Founder and President of The Echo Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Collective, which trains and educates young women to echo a positive model of personal, social and professional competencies. She has utilized her extensive experience in financial capability education and program development to design and implement housing counseling programs for community organizations throughout Philadelphia, assists families at risk of mortgage foreclosure with financial management skill building, and teach problem-solving skills to incarcerated individuals and returning citizens in housing, financial literacy, and job training;
And whereas, Pastor Alex Velazquez, Jr., has pastored the Oasis City Church in Olney, providing services to that community for over 21 years. His mission is to feed the hungry and clothe the naked. Each year his church sponsors numerous community outreach activities, including the September 5th Street Block Event, the Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Fest, and food and toy giveaways on Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas which serve over 700 needy families. Seeing a need for the services to the youth in Olney, he has also founded the Oasis Youth Foundation which endeavors to service at-risk youth in the community through both educational and recreation services;
Whereas, LeQuyen Vu is Executive Director of the Indo-Chinese American Council which started in 1984 in Philadelphia's Logan neighborhood to support minority, refugee, and immigrant communities through education and community resources. Under the leadership of Ms. Vu, the IAC aims to build a community where education creates opportunities and growth for all immigrant, refugee, and minority children and families by after-school programs, summer programs, and adult classes. Serving as a member of Mayor Kenney's transition team on Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 affairs, she works with elementary schools in the Northwest to develop supportive partnerships that prioritize family and community engagement. She also used to be my wife's boss. Therefore, be it
That's important. Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia honors and recognizes Brother Ron Armour, Trapeta Mayson, Keith Schenk, Michelle Kerr Spry, Alex Velazquez, Jr., and LeQuyen Vu for their dedication to community service and their significant contributions in Northwest Philadelphia. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to each honoree as evidence of our sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body. Congratulations. Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 (Applause.)
Thank you, and the Chair recognizes Michelle Kerr Spry for remarks.
Wow, what a humbling experience, and I hope that I can speak the words that my pastors back here find fitting. I'll be brief with my words, because it's not the words that we speak that have the power. It's the work that we do that we hope that has the impact. The great Muhammad Ali and the Honorable Shirley Chisholm have spoken these words, but I'd like to quote the tireless advocate, Marian Wright Edelman, who has been my personal shero, to capture this moment. It is not the service. Service is the rent we pay for being. It is the very purpose of life and not something you do in your spare time. My fellow members up here make their life's work service. We appreciate Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 this moment to be acknowledged. It's not why we do the work, however, but we do want to take this time to thank Councilwoman Cindy Bass -(Applause.)
-- for this acknowledgment of our work. We are proud community servants of the Eighth District and invested members of the Greater Philadelphia community. Thank you, Council, for taking a moment to acknowledge us. We are deeply honored and humbled by this moment. Thank you, and thank you for the work that you do every day. We are only hoping to emulate and make an impact just as you do. Thank you for your time. Thank you, everybody. Thank you. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.) Stated Meeting May 24, 2018
Thank you, and congratulations. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson, who will present a resolution honoring the Twentieth Anniversary of Philadelphia International Airport's Exhibitions Program. Would Chellie Cameron and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And joining Councilman Johnson, we have Councilman Jones, Councilwoman Bass, Councilman Squilla, Councilman Taubenberger, Councilman O'Neill, Councilwoman Parker, Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, and Councilman Domb and Councilman Henon and Councilman Green.
So it's truly a privilege and an honor to have the opportunity to honor and salute the Philadelphia International Airport Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 you're a frequent flyer such as myself and my wife to take my boys on vacation with us, if you want to talk about an experience, when you come to the City of Philadelphia or leaving the City of Philadelphia, you have to experience the exhibits that take place at the Philadelphia International Airport. They are very diverse but, most importantly, they enhance your experience as a customer flying and servicing the Philadelphia International Airport. So I just want to thank, first and foremost, the leadership for putting forth great exhibits and also my good friend, the CEO of the Philadelphia International Airport, Ms. Chellie Cameron, for her leadership and really since she's taken the helm of the Philadelphia International Airport has taken it to the next level while overseeing an $8.1 billion expansion. We talk a lot about diversity and inclusion here in this body, and the Philadelphia Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 among, if not the top departments, particularly when it comes to diversity and inclusion, under the leadership of Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown prior to me coming to City Council, had led that fight to make sure that the contracts, the professional services opportunities are available for all to participate in at the Philadelphia International Airport, and we will continue on that mission. And so I thank my colleagues for joining me, and the citation reads: Honoring the Twentieth Anniversary of the Philadelphia International Airport's Exhibitions Program and recognizing PHL for its dedication to improving its passenger experience through arts and cultural programming.
And whereas, Philadelphia International Airport's Exhibitions Program was founded in 1998 to, quote, "provide visibility Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 rich, unique cultural life and to enrich the traveling experience of the traveling public," end quote; and Whereas, under its current leadership -
She really loves the airport. She took my spot. Whereas, the exhibits are located across the airport, in all seven terminals, and are curetted throughout the year and presented in a variety of Philadelphia-centric artwork and promote citywide events; Under the leadership of the founding director of exhibits, Leah Douglas, the Exhibits Programs has organized more than 400 exhibits featuring the works of artists and cultural institutions from across the City and region. So I practiced my part and just read her part. Whereas
Whereas, the Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 promote the City as a hub for artistic expression by highlighting the City's major cultural institutions. The Mural Arts Program, responsible for transforming hundreds of buildings across the City into artistic destinations, has been featured in several exhibitions, as have other prominent cultural institutions such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, and the Pennsylvania Ballet; and
Whereas, PHL's Exhibitions Program also helps to promote the City's vibrant tourism industry, highlighting major sites like the Philadelphia Zoo, and creating exhibits to promote major events such as the recent Democratic National Convention;
From Odunde to the Mummers, the Exhibitions Program has made great efforts to showcase the various traditions and cultures that help Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 unique cultural fabric; and
Whereas, Maryanne Mahoney should come up, because we love her. Whereas, entire exhibits at PHL have been dedicated to the work of students from various local schools, including the Charter High School for Architecture and Design, Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts, Balde Middle School, Universal Audenried, and Overbrook School for the Blind; and
Whereas, past exhibits at PHL have also highlighted Philadelphia's central role in American History, from the Colonial Era to the present day, presenting artifacts from pivotal moments such as the Constitutional Convention and the Civil Rights Movement; and
Whereas, perhaps most importantly, the Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 International Airport has enriched the experience of nearly 30 million travelers who move through the airport each year. And passengers have commented that the exhibits provide a diversion from the stress of travel, create a positive reflection on the City of Philadelphia; and
Whereas, the American Association of Airport Executives has written that, quote, "Airport art and culture art programs lure guests to return to the airport, promote the airport's cool factor through social media, and showcase a city and region's art and culture." In recognition of the Exhibits Program's success, the Airport Executives Association has chosen PHL to host the airport for its 16th annual Arts in the Airport Workshop in October 2018; (Applause.)
Whereas, Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 is home to a wealth of arts, culture, and history, of which its citizens are truly proud. For the last 20 years, Philadelphia International Airport's Exhibitions Program has helped to highlight that unique heritage, and the City joins in celebrating this milestone anniversary; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia hereby honors the Twentieth Anniversary of Philadelphia International Airport's Exhibitions Program and recognizing PHL for the dedication to improving its passenger experience through arts and cultural programming. We would like to say congratulations. (Applause.)
And the Chair recognizes Ms. Cameron for remarks.
Wow is the right Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 feeling from this. Thank you so much for this recognition. It's incredibly meaningful. We serve, as you heard, approximately 30 million passengers a year, and that translates into over 80,000 people a day who are exposed to the art of Philadelphians in our airport, and those are Philadelphians that travel through the airport, but those from all over the world have a greater appreciation for this amazing city because of the program that Leah has put together. So I am very grateful, Councilman Johnson, for your introduction of this resolution, and I understand Councilman Green, Councilman Henon, Councilman Taubenberger, Councilwoman Parker, and Councilman Squilla also co-sponsored it. So, again, thank you. I just want to take one moment and recognize the real people behind this program, because it sure isn't me. Leah Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 -- Leah, come on up here with me. Leah is a proud graduate of the Temple Tyler School of Art, and it is her passion that has brought this program to life. As you heard, 20 years and over 400 exhibits, and none of that would have happened without Leah. She also has a very strong team behind her, and so I'd like to recognize those four members if they could come up too. We have Ursula Stuby, Clint DeCata (ph), Ahmed Salvador, and Rachel Jackson. And, again, without them -(Applause.)
Without them, we wouldn't have this wonderful program. So, Council President Clarke, all members of Council, thank you very much for this recognition and your support of the airport. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.) Stated Meeting May 24, 2018
Thank you, and congratulations. Our next order of business is communications, and the Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Mr. Decker, please read those messages.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill Nos. 160710, 180100, 180295, 180346, 180369, 180383, 180384, 180385, 180386, 180387, 180389, 180390, 180395, 180396, 180397, 180422, 180426, and 180427. And I am pleased to advise you that on May 22, 2018, I signed all of the bills which were passed by Council at its session on May 10, 2018. Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 herewith for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution approving the reappointment of Sonny Popowsky to the Philadelphia Water, Sewer and Storm Water Rate Board; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2340 North 19th Street located in the Fifth Councilmanic District; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1238 North 15th Street located in the Fifth Councilmanic District; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2006 North Woodstock Street located in the Fifth Councilmanic District; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 10R Nolan Court located in the Fifth Councilmanic District; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2304 Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 06 Emerald Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1248 through 52 South 23rd Street located in the 2nd Councilmanic District; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank deeds conveying title to certain properties located in the Fifth Councilmanic District; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank deeds conveying title to certain properties located in the Second Councilmanic District; and An ordinance authorizing the Bond Committee to sell bonds at public or private negotiated sale, to provide funds toward various capital municipal purposes; providing for appropriations to the Sinking Fund Commission for the Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 bonds; authorizing agreements to provide credit or payment or liquidity sources for the bonds in connection with the issuance of the bonds, and certain other actions; and An ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Employees Retirement Code," to expand "Plan 16" to include certain employees, to change contribution rates for certain employees and the City, and to amend various provisions relating to the Deferred Retirement Option Plan ("DROP"), and to make technical amendments; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Municipal Authority for use by the City of a portion of the premises located at 100 South Broad Street, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. Those messages Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 will be printed in today's Journal. Do you have any additional communications?
Thank you very much. And the next order of business is introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Good morning, Mr. President. This morning I offer one resolution.
A non-privileged resolution urging the United States Congress to respond to the Supreme Court ruling in Epic Systems Corp. versus Lewis by passing legislation that guarantees the right of workers to pursue class action lawsuits in Federal Court.
Next Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I introduce three bills, one on your behalf, and two non-privileged resolutions.
An ordinance establishing parking regulations along Mantua Avenue, North 37th Street, and Ogden Street to enable the installation of the Mantua Avenue Greenway; and An ordinance establishing a one-way regulation on Filbert Street, from North 38th Street to North 37th Street, eastbound; and An ordinance authorizing the Bond Committee to sell bonds at public or private negotiated sale, to provide funds toward various capital municipal Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 purposes.
Those three bills just read by the Chief Clerk will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Sixth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Forty-Sixth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer two resolutions on your behalf.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to dispose of certain properties located in the Fifth Councilmanic District, which will be transferred by the City to the Authority, by conveyance of such properties to the Philadelphia Land Bank.
Next week's Calendar. Stated Meeting May 24, 2018
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Twenty-Eighth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Also on next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill and a Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 privileged resolution. I'd like to be recognized after the reading of the bill, and I have duties outside of City Hall and would like permission to leave and be recorded aye on all bills and resolutions.
An ordinance amending Title 10 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Individual Conduct and Activity," by repealing certain provisions relating to temporary removal of firearms and adding a new Chapter 10-2300, entitled "Philadelphia Gun Violence Protection," establishing procedures relating to the relinquishment or seizure of firearms from individuals who present an imminent threat of harm to the individual's own self or others.
Thank you, Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Mr. President. Today I introduce this bill as a continuation of the work that you, Mr. President, and my colleague Councilman Johnson are doing on the Special Committee on Gun Violence, which is an arduous task, but this might just be one arrow in the quiver to fight that violence. This bill represents a collaborated effort between our offices, the Philadelphia Police Department, the Administration, the Law Department, Mayor Kenney, and the District Attorney Larry Krasner. This bill helps school teachers who knows her student is displaying certain warning signs of predicted violence and fears that he will actually or she actually come back and carry out that violence at a public school. This bill will help women and men in the workplace who have domestic violence issues and are being threatened by an ex that says, I'm going to come and create havoc in your workplace and Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 threaten your very life. This bill will help ex-boyfriends, ex-girlfriends who are in possession of firearms that need a cooling off period from the emotion of being in that kind of situation. This bill will protect us from senseless acts of gun violence that continue to rise in our nation. And the one thing about it, Mr. President, is there is usually predictive behavior. Someone says, I'm going to hurt people, and we don't believe them. We don't take them for their word. So this establishes a new section in Philadelphia Code to create a gun violence protection procedure or protection order. So someone comes to a public school and we've had plenty of fist fights in schoolyards. I know as a teacher, former Councilman Wilson Goode has broken up a couple, but when a young man or woman says I'm going to take it out on the whole school, we should Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 believe them and we should make sure that a responsible individual such as a teacher or a principal has an opportunity to go and petition a court to say maybe we should check that household for firearms and weapons of mass destruction. It just makes sense. This procedure will protect people in this building when people may have constituent service issues and, because of mental illness and other pressures, actually come and take it out on your and my staff. So the Philadelphia gun violence protection procedure will allow the following: It will allow petitions of gun violence in order to be filed by school officials, family members, household members, police officers, assistant district attorneys with the knowledge that individuals present themselves as an imminent threat to themselves and/or others. So this petition will allow within five days a Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 court hearing so that someone can say, You were shooting off steam, we don't believe that you present a threat to others, here's your guns back. Or if there is a need for further action, whether it is mental health intervention or other services that can be provided, that we take a step to prevent senseless violence that seems to be growing in our country. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you, Councilman. That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring our local American Idol star and former City Council intern, Michael J. Woodard, for making it to the top 5 of the series, and congratulating him on his participation in the upcoming "American Idol Live!" Tour.
Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Today's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Council President, I have five non-privileged resolutions, one privileged resolution, and one bill on your behalf.
An ordinance amending Title 13 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Water and Sewer," by amending Section 13-306, entitled "Water Pipe Laid by Property Owners," and by amending Section 13-406, entitled "Sewers Constructed by Property Owners," by revising certain provisions to allow for private water and sewer services to be constructed to serve units in planned communities and condominiums.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Housing, Neighborhood Development and the Homeless, to hold hearings to examine the effects of gentrification in the City of Philadelphia.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1248 through 52 South 23rd Street located in the 2nd Councilmanic District; and A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank deeds conveying title to certain properties located in the Second Councilmanic District.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Thirty-Sixth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
And a non-privileged resolution confirming the appointment of Michael Kopistansky, as a member of the Board of the Philadelphia Energy Authority, to serve in the term ending January 1, 2023.
And a non-privileged resolution approving the reappointment of Sonny Popowsky to the Philadelphia Water, Sewer and Storm Water Rate Board.
Also referred to committee. Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one non-privileged resolution.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2304 through 06 Emerald Street located in the 7th Councilmanic District.
Next week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Council President. I have two bills and one privileged resolution.
An ordinance amending Section 9-204 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sidewalk Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Vendors in Center City," and Section 9-205, entitled "Sidewalk Sales," to exempt sales of fresh fruits and vegetables on the abutting sidewalk of a property by the owner or tenant of that property from the requirements of Sections 9-204 and 9-205.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 9-600 of The Philadelphia, entitled "Service and Other Businesses," to prohibit the sale of tobacco products, electronic smoking devices, and unapproved nicotine delivery products at establishments where health care services are provided, including where pharmaceutical drugs are sold.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Lynn Fields Harris, on the occasion of her retirement as Executive Director of Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Center in the Park, for her decades of service to the City of Philadelphia and older Philadelphians.
And that will be on this week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have six bills, the first of which is on your behalf.
An ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Employees Retirement Code," to expand "Plan 16" to include certain employees, to change contribution rates for certain employees and the City, to amend various provisions relating to the Deferred Retirement Option Plan ("DROP"), and to make technical amendments.
Referred to committee. Stated Meeting May 24, 2018
And an ordinance authorizing 7254 Castor Incorporated doing business as Buccann to install, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 7254 Castor Avenue.
And an ordinance establishing a no truck parking regulation on Rising Sun Avenue between Adams Avenue and East Godfrey Avenue.
And an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 250 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portion of Montour Street from Adams Avenue to Foulkrod Street.
And an ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Philadelphia Code, entitled "Farmers' Markers," by adding a permissible location on Castor Avenue.
And an ordinance authorizing Buccann to install, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 7254 Castor Avenue.
Also referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Domb.
Good morning, Council President. I have one bill and one privileged resolution today.
An ordinance amending Title 19 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Finance, Taxes and Collections," by adding a new Chapter 19-4300, entitled "Monthly Reconciliation Reporting." Stated Meeting May 24, 2018
And a privileged resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Finance to conduct a full and comprehensive investigatory public hearing to review the corrective audit of the consolidated cash account as well as the accompanying corrective action plan upon completion of the audit performed by the firm Horsey, Buckner & Heffler.
And that will be on this week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gym.
Yes. Thank you very much, Council President. I have one bill and one resolution co-sponsored by Parker and Squilla, and I'd like to be recognized after reading both of them into the record.
An ordinance Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 amending Chapter 19-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Real Estate Taxes," by limiting the exemption of certain real estate taxes from improvements to, or construction of, certain real properties.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the City Council Committee of the Whole to explore the geographic scope of the 10-year real estate tax abatement.
And that will be on this week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman -- did you want to be recognized?
Thank you very much, Council President. Today these two items, a bill and a resolution, Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 will, I hope, continue a critically important and overdue conversation about school funding, development, gentrification, and Council's responsibility for revising the City's 20-year-old tax abatement program. I want to first thank and acknowledge the work of our colleague, former Councilman Wilson Goode, Jr., who has for years championed the need for revising our city's tax abatement program, one of the most generous in the nation. Councilman Goode, like many of us, never lost sight of the fact that as policymakers we must continue to fine-tune public policy to ensure that it is equitable. The ten-year real estate tax abatement originally called upon City Council to designate and target, quote, "deteriorating areas of the City that were physically blighted," as defined by substandard housing, vacant land, and delinquent properties. Its goal at the time was to help revitalize our Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 communities, retain residents, and attract home and business owners. And there is no question that parts of our City would not have been rebuilt without the ten-year tax abatement. There is no question that parts of our City may still benefit from incentivized development and rehabilitation. These proposals do not diminish that reality, but it is time to look to the future. Last year alone, the City and our schools forfeited over $40 million in tax revenue from the abatement. And while some areas of the City have been marked by rapid growth and development, studies also show or suggest that the abatement might also be contributing to disproportionately higher displacement risks for longtime residents. The Economy League of Greater Philadelphia has recommended that smart and strategic tax abatement reform could yield significant revenue, and this week the City of Philadelphia will release Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 even more data on the tax abatement. And as we look to the weeks ahead, time and again Council has been asked to step up to the plate to support our schoolchildren, and this body has delivered each and every time. Now we're being asked to do it again, and this time it's by six-year-old Dean Pagan at Comly Elementary who ate paint chips off of his desk because -- who was lead poisoned because of paint chips that flaked off of his desk, because he wanted his desk to be clean. It's now coming from fourth-grader Ashley Garner at Hamilton Elementary who has missed school days and has had terrifying asthma attacks because of the conditions at her school building. And it's being asked now by second-grader Lucas Sims, who suffered from carbon monoxide poisoning at Loesche Elementary School. There is no question that the tax abatement -- that modifying the tax abatement can help us show our commitment Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 to the true intent of the tax abatement legislation, to help rebuild and revitalize neighborhoods that are in actuality distressed, and modifying the abatement can also show our commitment to support funds for our schools. I look forward to that important policy conversation ahead. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Taubenberger.
Good afternoon, Council President. Thank you. I have no bills nor resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have three bills, two on your behalf, and one non-privileged resolution.
An ordinance amending Title 11 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Streets," by amending Chapter 11-500, entitled "Paving," by creating Section 11-508, entitled "Private Development Projects," by providing that the Department of Streets may establish regulations to require certain private development projects to pave and mill the adjacent roadway.
And an ordinance amending Title 11 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Streets," by amending Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Chapter 11-600, entitled "Construction, Encroachments And Projections Over, On And Under Streets," by amending Section 11-608, entitled "Excavation and Construction In and Under the Sidewalks," by providing that areaway encroachments may extend into the street line as far as may be required by the applicable utility provider; and An ordinance authorizing Plaza Garibaldi Incorporated, doing business as Frida Cantina, to install, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 1000 Wolf Street.
And a non-privileged resolution supporting the concept of the nine-county region of Circuit Trails, working toward the completion of 500 miles of Trails in the Greater Philadelphia Region by 2025.
And that will be on next week's Calendar. Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Bass.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
The next order of business is the report from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Committee of the Whole reports four bills and one resolution with a favorable recommendation.
Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 Chief Clerk please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee of the Whole, to which was referred Bill No. 180108, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the City of Philadelphia to enter into lease agreements with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development under which the City would lease to PAID on a project-by-project basis certain land and facilities in the Fairmount Park system, recreation centers, playgrounds and branches in the Free Library of Philadelphia system and which would permit PAID to sublease such Facilities on a project-by-project basis to other organizations in conformity with the Economic Development Financing Law"; and Bill No. 180166, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 19-1301.1 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 'Homestead Exclusion,' to increase the amount of the homestead exclusion"; and Bill No. 180167, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Realty Transfer Tax,' to increase the rate of realty transfer tax"; and Bill No. 180168, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Wage and Net Profits Tax,' by revising certain tax rates"; and Resolution No. 180124, entitled a "Resolution approving the Rebuild Project Statement, including annual budgets for Project expenditures for Fiscal Years 2018 and 2019, a list of City properties to be included in the program and a master Economic Opportunity Plan," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills and resolution to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 180108, 180166, 180167, and 180168. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so to permit the first reading of this day Bill Nos. 180108, 180166, 180167, and 180168. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. This will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. Resolution 180124 will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman Stated Meeting May 24, 2018
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would just ask to be excused from the rest of this session. I have Council-related activity, and recorded as voting aye on all bills and resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. Permission granted and the record will reflect your votes. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Greenlee on a report from the Committee of Rules.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Committee on Rules reports seven bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
The Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 180015, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the City of Philadelphia to Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 be known as the Callowhill Business Improvement District, pursuant to the provisions of the Municipality Authorities Act"; and Bill No. 180217, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by revising requirements for accessory signs, located within the area bounded by Juniper Street, East Passyunk Avenue and Mifflin Street"; and Bill No. 180286, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Girard Avenue, Broad Street, Fairmount Avenue, and Corinthian Street"; and Bill No. 180384, entitled "An ordinance approving the fifteenth amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Urban Renewal Plan, being the area generally bounded by Fifteenth Street on the east, Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 south, Nineteenth Street on the west and Montgomery Avenue on the north, including the fifteenth amendment to the urban renewal plan"; and Bill No. 180385, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Ridge Avenue, Gorgas Lane (extended), Henry Avenue, Valley Avenue, and Domino Lane"; and Bill No. 180395, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Bustleton Avenue, Solly Avenue, Eastwood Avenue and Stanwood Street"; and Bill No. 180397, entitled "An ordinance approving the forty-second amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, being the area beginning on the northwest Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 and Spring Garden Street, including the thirty-fourth amendment to the urban renewal plan," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the seven bills that were just read into the record by Mr. Decker. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit the reading of this day Bill Nos. 180015, 180217, 180286, 180384, 180385, 180395, and 180397. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 (Aye.)
The ayes have it. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a report of the Committee of Finance.
Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Committee on Finance reports out three bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chief Clerk, would you please read the report.
The Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 180261, entitled "An ordinance amending Subsection 19-2604(6) of The Philadelphia Code, under which businesses may enter into agreements to make contributions to community development corporations and Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 receive credits against business income and receipts taxes, by increasing the number of businesses for which the credit shall be made available"; and Bill No. 180392, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Realty Transfer Tax,' by amending Section 19-1405, entitled 'Excluded Transactions,' by replacing gendered marital signifiers"; and Bill No. 180393, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 19, Chapter 2900, of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Senior Citizen Low Income Special Tax Provisions,' to make certain technical changes," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank Stated Meeting May 24, 2018 you, Mr. Chairman. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 180261, 180392, and 180393. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading of this day Bill Nos. 180261, 180392, and 180393. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)