COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania June 11, 2026 10:25 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN CINDY GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILMAN CURTIS J. JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY M. LOZADA COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, CHIEF CLERK - -
Members, please take your seats. I note that the hour has come and a quorum of the City Council is present. The City Council is now coming to order. All visitors please retire to the seats outside the rails. I'm asking for all those present to please set your cell phones to silent and/or vibrate. Thank you very much. Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)
I want to welcome all of you to our last Council session. I think somebody wanted to clap. I think I heard it a little bit. (Applause.)
It's truly an honor and a privilege to see everyone today. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Dr. Evangelist Na'Khia S. Washington, Publishing Board Member and Senior Servant of the National Adjutancy in the Church of God and Christ, Inc. She is here today as guest of Majority Leader and member of the illustrious Zeta Phi Beta, Inc. Katherine Gilmore Richardson. I will ask all guests and members to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests and visitors rise.)
Micah 6:8 He has showed thee, oh man, what is good and what does the Lord require of thee, but to do justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with our God. Let us pray. Gracious and internal God, our Father, we come before you with gratitude for the City of Philadelphia, a city rich and history, resilience and hope. Lord, we thank you for the legacy of those who built this city and for the opportunity to continue that work through service and leadership today. We lift up the members of this City Council. God, we ask that you grant them wisdom to lead with integrity, courage to make just decisions and humility, to listen with open heart in a city known as the birthplace of liberty. May their leadership reflect fairness, equity and a deep commitment to all people. Lord, we pray for every neighborhood from North Philly to South Philly, from West Philly to Northeast Philly, that this city may be a place where opportunity is not limited by zip code, where safety is not a privilege but a promise, and where every resident feels seen, valued and heard. As discussions unfold in this chamber on today, let respect guide every exchange, let understand overcome the vision and that a shared vision for the common good rise above all differences. Remind us, O God, that every policy impacts real lives, families striving, students learning, workers building and communities growing. Make compassion and justice shape every decision made here once a day. And finally, God, I ask that you bless this hearing with order, purpose and clarity. And may all that is done here reflect a spirit of service to the people of the City of Philadelphia. God, if there's anything I failed in asking, I pray that you fail not in granting, for we declare and decree in your name that it is so. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks the Doctor 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, June 4, 2026. The Chair recognizes Majority Deputy Whip Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, June 4, 2026 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, June 4, 2026 be approved. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is the request for leaves of absence. The Chair recognizes the Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, there are no requests for leave of absence today.
The Chair thanks the Majority Leader. The Chair recognizes Minority Whip Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Minority, there are no leaves of absence today.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Majority Leader, 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 Calender 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.
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 today's session of Council. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of the City Council, we welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to our legislative affairs of our great city. We certainly invite you to come again. We have a significant amount of individuals who are joining us today. I want to start off by acknowledging Councilmember Rue Landau now as we celebrate Pride Month to acknowledge her guests. (Applause.)
I want to -- just thank you everybody for being here. This is going to be a great presentation today. But I wanted to give a special acknowledgment to Judge Dan Anders, who I believe is up in the balcony, and we would love to see you. Yeah, there he is. A strong member of our community. Thank you.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
Thank you, Council President. Good morning. Today I want to welcome an incredible establishment. I know many people travel to South on Election Day, but in Northwest Philadelphia we have an incredible sit-down restaurant called Thee Pink Plate that I would love for all of Philadelphia to visit. And right now, all of Philadelphia has been visiting from across every neighborhood in the city. Today we are joined by the mother and daughter team owners of Thee Pink Plate, Ms. Serena and Ms. Carrie, if you all can please stand and be welcomed to Philadelphia City Council. (Applause.)
I just want to briefly say that they have been on Wadsworth for one year, and they have transformed the culture of our corridor by establishing great customer service, excellent food, excellent food as well as just being great stewards of the community, including supporting us with Kada Scott, among other initiatives. They are here on Wadsworth Avenue in the Northwest, and we hope that they're here to stay and continue to expand. So welcome Thee Pink Plate to Philadelphia City Council. (Applause.)
Welcome. Chair recognizes Majority Leader Kathy Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you. Thank you very much, Council President, for your indulgence as I welcome many guests today. I'll start with Dr. Na'Khia S. Washington, who is our guest for our invocation this morning. First and foremost, I really want to thank you for that invocation. Not only is Dr. Washington a licensed evangelist and publishing Board member and senior servant of the National Adjutancy in the Church of God and Christ, Inc., but she's a fellow West Chester University graduate and a member of my beloved sorority, Zeta Phi Beta, Inc. Dr. Washington is also the Director of School Counseling for Boys Latin School of Philadelphia with a commitment to uplifting and empowering others through both spiritual leadership and education. Dr. Washington has dedicated her life, her entire life to service and whether that's as a faith leader, a counselor, a community leader, she truly embodies the kind of well-rounded leadership that makes our city and certainly our dear sorority proud. And personally, I'd like to thank her for her love, support and guidance on my Church of God and Christ journey, so let's welcome Dr. Washington. (Applause.)
In addition, Council President, I'd also like to recognize the presence of Ms. Teen Philadelphia. Please stand, Ksenya Wong. (Applause.)
Ksenya Wong attended our summer kickoff event this past Saturday in the 7th Council District where we hosted a summer kickoff event with Councilmember Quetcy Lozada. She is a sophomore at Episcopal Academy. She's a published author and community advocate through her initiative Artful Wellness. She combined storytelling and the art to support children's literacy, confidence and emotional well-being. She will proudly represent the great City of Philadelphia at the Ms. Pennsylvania's Teen Competition this month. And we'd certainly like to wish you well and best of luck as you compete for the state title. And we look forward to all that you will continue to accomplish in the years ahead. Please give her a round of applause. Congratulations. (Applause.)
In addition, Council President, it is my honor to welcome Saniyah Lott to Philadelphia City Council and to City Hall for the very first time. On Tuesday, Saniyah graduated from 8th grade from General Philip Kearny Elementary School, Councilmember Jeffrey Young, in the great 5th Council District. And I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Saniyah when she portrayed me in her school's Living Blacks in Wax Project back in February. And so, I surprised her by coming to her school. But I was so taken aback by her project. She dressed in royal blue and white. She had a K pin and she really had me down to a science. And so, I had the opportunity to visit her at school. I was so deeply touched by your research and certainly by that recognition and we have remained in contact ever since. She'll be attending Parkway West High School next year. And I look forward to all that she accomplishes as she joins KGR's Mentee Club. Stand and be recognized. (Applause.)
And last but never least, I am so honored today that we were finally able to pull this together. And later in the session, I'll be introducing a resolution honoring and celebrating Walter Reeder, Jr. of Big Block Entertainment as a part of Black Music Month, Councilmember Thomas. A Philadelphia-based entertainment executive, Walter has spent more than years helping 6 shape the live entertainment 7 industry through his leadership, 8 entrepreneurship and commitment to 9 Black music and culture. After 10 founding Big Block Entertainment in 11 1999, an esteemed booking agency, 12 he went on to work with iconic 13 artists including Maxwell, one of 14 my favorites, Mary J. Blige, Chaka 15 Khan, my soror, Patti LaBelle, 16 Gladys Knight, Stephanie Mills, our 17 new soror, October London, New 18 Edition and many others. 19 Walter serves as partner 20 and Senior Vice-President of Talent 21 Acquisition for the Black Promoters 22 Collective, the largest Black-owned 23 live music company in the United 24 States of America, where he continues to expand opportunities for Black artists, businesses and audiences nationwide. He was also recently recognized by the Living Legends Foundation with the A.D. Washington Chairman's Award for his profound impact on the music industry. But today is very special. Today we have with us celebrating this resolution, Walter Reeder, Sr. who is celebrating his 80th birthday. Congratulations to each of you. Walter Reeder, Sr., on your birthday and Walter Reeder, Jr., for carrying on the legacy of the Reeder family. Kudos and congratulations. Please stand. (Applause.)
Congratulations. You sure he's 80? Thought that was one of them young boys back there, sitting there.
Sharp too, sir. Thank you for your hard work in the area of entertainment as we move the City of Philadelphia forward and happy birthday again. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, who has the fine opportunity to introduce and acknowledge one of my mentors from Southwest Philadelphia. Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
Thank you, Council President. I would like to welcome Mr. Tyrone Sims aka "Cakes," along with representatives of Speaker Johanna McClinton here to Council as we vote to rename the park at 60th and Baltimore Tyrone "Cakes" Sims Park. (Applause.)
If you know Cobbs Creek, you know Cakes, who for decades has been keeping our young people on a safe and successful path. He founded the Concerned Men of Cobbs Creek, established a youth basketball league, served as a trusted liaison between law enforcement and the community and dedicated his life to public service as a staffer for multiple state legislators. And now, our Speaker, I receive a ton of requests for park and street renamings, but when Speaker McClinton called me about this one, it was an immediate yes because I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this honor than Cakes. And so, thank you for being here. Thank you, Cakes, for your decades of service to our community. We love you. Thank you so much. (Applause.)
Very fond and fitting acknowledgement. Cakes had mentored me early on in my career way before I decided to become a State Representative, way before I decided to become a City Councilperson. And so, congratulations on your acknowledgement. Thanks for all the lives that you have saved, all the families that you have consoled who have lost loved ones to senseless gun violence. And you done went from terrorizing the neighborhood to having a park named after you. (Laughter.)
Appreciate you, Cakes, for your dedication to Southwest Philadelphia in all seriousness. Very well done, Member Gauthier. That's my big brother over there. Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President. And good morning. Today I would like to acknowledge some students who were awarded scholarships from Bright Hope Baptist Church in the heart of North Philadelphia. Would y'all please stand and be honored and recognized for your achievements. (Applause.)
Thank you. Mr. President, we also have some students who were here from the Student Council of the City School that's located in the heart of Fairmount as well. If those students are here, if you can please stand and let's give them a round of applause as well. And definitely last but certainly not least, Mr. President, I want to pay respect now to Inspector of the Community Partnership Unit and the City of Philadelphia and the Captain of the 22nd Police District here in the City of Philadelphia, the hard- working Inspector Goodson and Captain Sprowal. Can we please give them a round of applause please. (Applause.)
Thank you. Welcome to City Council as well. Thank you for your service. Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Good morning, Mr. President. I wanted to recognize Science Leadership Academy and Palumbo Girls Lacrosse Team, which they won the 2026 Philadelphia Public League Championship for lacrosse. And if I could ask them to please stand just for a brief moment, including my very own love of my life, Carson Bass. (Applause.)
Congratulations. Congratulations to these extraordinary ladies for their accomplishment. We'll be hearing more, Mr. President, as we introduce a resolution and on public comment. So thank you very much.
Also, I just really wanted to give a quick shout-out to Walt Reeder, Jr. as well. We go so far back in the '80s, right. We were both very young children back then. But keep doing good work, Walt. Keep doing good work. Absolutely. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you very much. Also, want to give a shout-out to Community Leader Asa Khalif I see over there, and also Mark Segal. Give them a round of applause for joining us in City Council today. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau, presenting a resolution 7 declared June 2026. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. I'd like to recognize two of the students from the 7th Council District who are not only graduating from high school but also graduated from the Safe Hub Playmakers program, a leadership program for students committed to growth on and off the field. Alyssa Santiago and Juan Tavares, they are in our chambers for the first time. I also want to recognize the Frankford High Pioneers Varsity Baseball Team, who finished an exceptional season, finishing with a 9-0 record, winning the Philadelphia Public League Independence Division and reaching the PIAA Class 5A State Championship. These young men brought pride to Frankford, not only by winning the City championship, but also by the way they carried themselves with discipline, teamwork, heart and commitment. You also need to know that over 80% of this year's team are on the honor roll. Please give them a round of applause. I want to give a special shout-out to the team's MVP, Reynaldo De Los Santos, recognized as the MVP for the league, and Railyn Rodriguez, honored as Pitcher of the Year. Congratulations, gentlemen. Thank you for joining us today. (Applause.) And finally, our coach and friend Juan Newman is Frankford through and through, a proud Frankford High graduate who returned to serve both at the school and as coach and in the neighborhood. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you, colleague. As a Frankford High School graduate, I truly appreciate that. Congratulations to Frankford High School. I know somebody's very proud of their dad, but I'm not going to throw anybody under the bus. I would also like to welcome, as a proud Board member of the African American Museum, our Executive Director Dr. Ashley Jordan is here today. Can you stand up, Dr. Jordan? I'm not sure where you are, but thank you for being here. Probably in the balcony. (Applause.)
And also, Council President, I would like to thank all of the representation that's here as it relates to labor and labor leaders, but especially give a shout-out and stand in solidarity with the workers at UNITE HERE. It's no 23 secret what they're going through as it relates to their contract issues. I just wanted to stand in support and in solidarity with those folks as well as add a little bit. Thank you, Council President. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau, who will present a resolution declaring 2026 LGBTQ+ Pride Month in the City of Philadelphia. Will Mark Segal and those accompanying him please join Councilmember Rue Landau at the podium. Joining Member Rue Landau are the following Councilmembers: Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, Councilmember Jim Harrity, Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke, Councilmember Mark Squilla, Councilmember Isaiah Thomas, Councilmember Quetcy Lozada. We also have joining us Kathryn Ott Lovell. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
Thank you. Good morning, everyone, and Happy Pride Month. (Applause.)
I am feeling such incredible joy right now, I cannot tell you. This is a moment. Today I am honored to be joined by leaders and organizations that have helped shape Philadelphia's LGBTQ+ community, including Gay Bingo and Action Wellness, Pride House, and the Philly Falcons, the Pride Visitors Center, Philly Queer Fundy, the William Way LGBTQ Community Center, the incomparable Mark Segal and Philadelphia Gay News. And today we are posthumously honoring Dito Van Reigersberg, the star behind Martha Graham Cracker, for his contributions to our community. May he rest in peace. (Applause.)
Today we are here to recognize June as Pride Month in the City of Philadelphia. Pride has always been more than a celebration. It's a reminder of the generations of LGBTQ+ people who organized, advocated and fought for the rights we enjoy today. And as a reminder, that progress is never guaranteed, something we are seeing today as LGBTQ+ rights and health are at risk at a time when LGBTQ+ people, especially transgender and non-binary people and Black and Brown queer folks, continue to face attacks across the country and right here in Philadelphia, the work of the people standing behind me today is more important than ever. They have fought throughout generations past for our civil rights, serve our community today and continue to stand up for the future of equality and justice for LGBTQ+ people. And Pride is power, Pride is protest and Pride is community. I am honored to have my colleagues join me in recognizing June as Pride Month in the City of Philadelphia. And now, for the reading of the resolution: We are declaring June 2026 LGBTQ+ Pride Month in the City of Philadelphia. Whereas, the movement for LGBTQ liberation has a deep and righteous history in the City of Philadelphia, helmed by revolutionary leaders who demonstrated the power of organizing alongside movements for justice to advance equity and civil rights; and
Whereas, on June 11, 1970, thousands of people rallied in Rittenhouse Square and marched through Center City to Independence Hall in Philadelphia's first formal Gay Pride March, amidst targeted brutality and harassment towards the LGBTQ+ community by the Philadelphia Police Department; and
Whereas, Philadelphia is home to one of their earliest annual demonstrations for LGBTQ+ rights, the annual reminders outside Independence Hall on July 4th from 1965 to 1969. During Philadelphia's first Gay Pride March in June of 1972, the Philadelphia Gay Pride Committee wrote that until gay lovers can walk proudly hand in hand on the street without evoking hostile comments and harassment, we will continue to march and fight for our freedom and the freedom of our frightened brothers and sisters who are unhappily satisfied with the status quo; and
Whereas, in the five decades since Philadelphia has continued to be at the vanguard of advances in the LGBTQ+ civil rights. Philadelphia activists were at the forefront of the successful campaign to declassify homosexuality as a mental illness in the 1970s. And in 1982, Philadelphia became one of the first cities in the country and the first in the Commonwealth to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation in housing, employment and public accommodations; and
Whereas, Michael Henson became Philadelphia's first mayoral appointee liaison to LGBTQ+ communities, and his legacy includes ensuring that gender identity was protected under the City's Fair Practice Ordinance in 2002. In 2008, Philadelphia established one of the first municipal offices of LGBT Affairs initially directed by the visionary leader Gloria Casarez; and
Whereas, Philadelphia's LGBTQ+ community and history are directly tied to transformative LGBTQIA+ resource centers, including the William Way LGBT Center, which empowers and serves the community, the Mazzoni Center, a pioneering sexual wellness center that was among the first responders to the HIV epidemic, and the Attic Youth Center, a safe and affirming space for LGBTQ+ youth; and
Excuse me, Council President. I'm going to read my part, but first I think that something needs to be said, which was, Mark, how long we've known each other, about 30 years, right?
I'm much older. I wasn't going to tell anybody, Mark. But I've been going to the Pride festivities for about 30 years. I don't recall one time it being shut down so -- UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: (Inaudible).
Exactly, exactly, but I'm trying to say something, so please. I would like to formally apologize to anyone who came in to celebrate here in the City of Philadelphia on something that's supposed to be a joyous occasion. I apologize. I apologize for you. I apologize to all of you. (Applause.)
And I thought that that needed to be said. So you know me. I never shy away when something needs to be said. And with that: Whereas, the City of Philadelphia recognizes that visibility without meaningful structural reform is not sufficient, and that until equality is fully realized for all members of our community, the fight for LGBTQ+ rights is not over; and
Whereas, the fight for equality for all LGBTQ+ Philadelphians is deeply connected to the fight for racial justice and the need to stand in defense of LGBTQ+ lives remain critical, particularly in the light of hateful decisions to restrict the autonomy of trans youth around the country; and
Happy Pride Month. All right. Whereas, Pride is a space for righteous joy and for the LGBTQ+ community to express and explore the fullness of their identities; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia declares June 2026 LGBTQ+ Pride Month in the City of Philadelphia; and Further Resolved, that an Engrossed copy of this resolution shall be presented to the Philadelphia LGBTQ+ community as evidence of the sincere respect, gratitude and admiration of this legislative body. Thank you. (Applause.)
Chair recognizes Mark Segal for remarks, thee Mark Segal.
Thee. Was that not one of the longest resolutions you've ever heard? Now, I'm reaching in my pocket for a piece of paper and I think you all know when a speaker gets a piece of paper, you might want to groan and say, oh my God, it's going to go on forever. So let me first say, thank you to all the Councilpeople. Thank you, Mr. President. It's wonderful to see this almost unanimity of Council, unanimity supporting pride, but a little was left out of that. You see, I've been coming to this Council session since 1971. That means I'm old, people. And in that time we have been fighting for a Pride resolution or simply gay rights, Bill 1275 and Bill 1358. And during that period of time, many times -- and I'm sorry about this, Mr. President -- I've been taken out of this chamber in handcuffs. I remember in 1973 right over at that spot right there, a Councilperson, two Councilpeople, Angel Ortiz and Fran Rafferty got into a fistfight over gay pride. I was taken out with handcuffs again, but that's good. I would be remiss if I did not talk about the actions of last Sunday. Thank you, Mayor Parker, for creating a committee based with the LGBT Commission that you have, Tito from the Mayor's Office of LGBT Affairs to research and look into the problems that happened. Here is what is needed: accountability. Who was in charge Sunday? I would like to know. Everyone up here would like to know the answer to that. No police should be wearing a mask in Philadelphia. No 2 motorcycle should be up on the sidewalk. Police on horseback should not be hurting citizens. Police should not be running around with tasers. People should not be punched. People should not be fenced off like animals. Okay. UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: (Inaudible).
So those are 12 some of the problems. The Mayor 13 and her people will deal with it. 14 I thank her for that and I trust in 15 that. But here are some of the 16 good things that happened Sunday: 17 Sunday Tyrell Brown and Pride 365 18 made a statement months ago that it 19 was unsafe to have Pride in the 20 Gayborhood, so they decided to have 21 it on the Parkway. That was a safe 22 space, and we thank Pride and 365. 23 We are sorry that the 24 police and neighborhood officials and others did not get together to figure out what to do in the gay program where everybody would congregate once the Parkway was done. Now, I got to tell you, I've already established that I'm old. I was born in 1951. I know. It seems prehistoric to many of you here. But when I was growing up here in Philadelphia, I thought I was the only gay person in the entire city of 1.6 million. So at years old, May 10, 1969 I left 16 Philadelphia and moved to New York. 17 Six weeks later I found myself in a 18 bar called the Stonewall. And on June 28, 1968 while I was dancing, the police barged into what we thought was our safe place, started throwing bottles around, started throwing us up against the walls. It was extremely violent. We thought that was our safe place. Last Sunday we thought the Gayborhood was our safe place. We have made the point today. Everyone here behind me has made this point, that we realize things did not go well Sunday. Well, you have one year to fix it. And next year we will have a bright and happy Gay Pride in Philadelphia. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you so much, Mark. And thank you to all of the incredible groups who are here today. I got to spend my morning giving City Council resolutions to Gay Bingo and Action Wellness, Pride House and the Philly Falcons, Pride Visitors Center, Philly Queer Fundy, William Way LGBT Community Center, and also we had already previously honored Mark Segal and the Philadelphia Gay News. These organizations are doing the work on the ground, along with so many others in the city to make our queer community as wonderful and vibrant and strong and safe as possible. Please know that today I am introducing a resolution to hold a hearing to look deeply into what happened in the Gayborhood on Sunday, and we will get to the bottom of it. Thank you so much. And Happy Pride. (Applause.)
Members, please take your seats. The Chair at this time recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I just wanted to acknowledge a group of young men from the 8th Council District who are doing a program this summer throughout the district, providing resources, services and outreach in the community. They're doing a project called Back to the Block, taking it back to the neighborhood, and we wanted to recognize these young men from the 8th Council District who are doing outstanding work in their community. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)
Keep up the good work. I'm hoping Channel 3, 6, 9, 10, Fox paying attention to some positive African American young men in the right place at the right time doing the right things. Keep up the good work, young men. 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. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The Chief Clerk will read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications in his possession.
To the President and the 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 adding a new Chapter 12-1800 to The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Temporary No Parking Restrictions and Relocation Towing," to restrict the use of temporary no parking signs, create a system for the application for and issuance of permits for the use of temporary no 15 parking signs, provide for violations for parking at locations restricted by such signs and relocation towing in connection with such violations, and establish restrictions related to such relocation towing, all under certain terms and conditions. Pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I'm today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill No. 260461, Bill No. 260523, Bill No. 260524, Bill No. 260532 for approval, Bill 8 No. 260534 for approval with amendments. Bill No. 260535, Bill 10 No. 260536, Bill No. 260564 and Bill No. 260566 all for approval. 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 No. 260200, Bill No. 260201, Bill No. 260528 for approval, Bill No. 260533 for approval with amendments. I'm pleased to advise you that on June 10, 2026, I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on May 28, 2026: Bill No. 260063-A, Bill No. 260212, Bill No. 260296, Bill No. 260297, Bill No. 260301, Bill No. 260340 and Bill No. 6 260379. And I am pleased to advise you that on June 10, 2026 I signed the following bill which was passed by Council at its session on June 4, 2026: Bill No. 260424. There are no further communications in my possession, Council President.
Thank you very much. The messages will be printed in the Journal. Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution honoring and congratulating one of the best soul food restaurants in the City of Philadelphia, Thee Pink Plate, on its first year anniversary on Wadsworth Avenue. And then also a bill for introduction today.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the bill and resolution.
An ordinance renaming and designating the building located on the property of the Dorothy Emanuel Recreation Center, commonly referred to as the Dorothy Emanuel Playground Building, located at 8501 Pickering Avenue, as the "Marlene Trice Neighborhood Center" in the City of Philadelphia.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution honoring and congratulating Thee Pink Plate Cafe on the occasion of its first anniversary since opening in 2025 on the Wadsworth Avenue in Philadelphia 9 Council District, and recognizing its continued contributions to neighborhood vitality, local entrepreneurship, and community life.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one non-privileged resolution on your behalf and one privileged resolution.
The Chair recognizes -- Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the resolutions. And then I have a motion. I'm going to acknowledge Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson on one of my resolutions.
A privileged resolution honoring Police Officer Joe Young by renaming the 6400 block of Woodland Avenue to "Officer Joe Young Way" in recognition of his service to the 12th District and protection of the Southwest Philadelphia community.
Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
A non-privileged resolution honoring and celebrating Walter Reeder, Jr. of Big Block Entertainment, Inc. on the occasion of Black Music Month in the City of Philadelphia. Hold on a second. I'm sorry, Council President. It is the first one. I apologize.
Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
For a motion concerning the non-privileged resolution just introduced by our Chief Clerk.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit the consideration of the one non-privileged resolution that was just read into the record by the Chief Clerk at today's session of Council. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded and all those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that all those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. And the resolution 19 will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
The resolution will be -the second resolution will be placed on also today's Final Passage Calendar. Thank you very much, Chief Clerk. Chair recognizes --
We're good. It's the last Council session. Yeah, we're good, Chief Clerk. Can we give Liz a round of applause? Y'all know Liz works hard. Appreciate you, Liz. (Applause.)
Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Majority Whip Chair of Education, my good friend Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.
Thank you, Council President. Today I have one bill 12 and one resolution. But, Council President, I would like to be excused from session today. I would like to be recorded as aye on all bills and resolutions and I have personal business to attend to, not Council business. Thank you all.
Thank you very much. Leave is granted. You will be voted aye on all bills and resolutions for today. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the bill and the resolution.
An ordinance amending Title of The 7 Philadelphia Code, entitled 8 "Regulation of Business, Trades, 9 and Professions," by adding a new chapter to require hotel operators to notify guests of service disruptions which substantially affect or are likely to substantially affect any guest use of a room or utilization of a hotel service and providing for enforcement and penalties, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Education to hold hearings examining the accessibility and equity of Algebra education curriculum in Philadelphia schools and the impact this has on accessibility to special admission high schools.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
Thank you, Council President. Today I have three privileged resolutions and one bill.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the bill and the resolutions please.
An ordinance amending Title of The 4 Philadelphia Code, entitled 5 "Regulation of Businesses, Trades, 6 and Professions," by adding a new 7 Chapter 9-6900, entitled "Payment 8 Convenience Fees," to establish 9 restrictions on the collection of convenience or processing fees via online payment portals and provide for remedies, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution honoring Pride House Philadelphia 2026 and their local partners, the Philadelphia Falcons, for fostering, uplifting and advancing a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ athletes, sports fans and allies during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring the life, legacy and memory of Dito van Reigersberg, the theater artist, accomplished singer, cabaret star and an incomparable Philadelphia drag queen who performed as Martha Graham Cracker on the occasion of his passing. (Applause.)
I had no idea he passed. This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
A privileged resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Legislative Oversight to hold hearings examining the strategy and tactics deployed by the City of Philadelphia for crowd control during and following public events as a result of reports of overly aggressive tactics used by the police department following the 2026 LGBTQ Pride festivities.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau -- I'm sorry. Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. Today I offer one privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring and congratulating the 2026 Frankford High School Pioneers Baseball Team on winning the 5A City Championship and celebrating their outstanding academic and athletic achievements.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer two privileged resolutions.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the resolutions.
A privileged resolution authorizing the Committees on Transportation and Public Utilities and Public Safety to hold joint public hearings examining youth safety on and around SEPTA and identifying coordinated strategies to prevent violence, support young people and protect all riders.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing the Philadelphia Police Department, Philadelphia Parks and Recreation and their community partners for the positive impact of the Summer Night Lights initiative, and encouraging Philadelphia residents and families to participate in the 2026 Summer Night Lights Series.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.
Thank you, sir. Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Brian O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you very much. Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer three bills, one on your behalf, one privileged resolution and two non-privileged resolutions.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the titles of the bills and resolutions please.
An ordinance adding a new Chapter 6 12-1800 to The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Temporary No Parking Restrictions and Relocation Towing," to restrict use of temporary no parking signs; create a system for the application for and issuance of permits for the use of temporary no parking signs; provide for violations for parking at locations restricted by such signs and relocation towing in connection with such violations, and establish restrictions related to such relocation towing, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance amending Chapter 10-700 ("Refuse and Littering") of The Philadelphia Code to revise penalties related to dumpsters, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance designating the 27th day of March as the holiday "Philadelphia Flag Day," all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
A privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Bernard Havard, President and Producing Artistic Director of the Walnut Street Theatre Company.
This bill will be referred -- no. This bill will be replaced on today's Final Passage Calendar.
A non-privileged resolution also naming S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard from Washington Avenue to Race Street as "Veterans Memorial Highway" to honor the contributions of veterans to our country.
Council will resume. 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 Lombard Street between 6th and 7th Streets as "Bishop Richard Allen Way" to honor the life and legacy of Bishop Richard Allen, founder of (Mother) Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church and the African Methodist Episcopal Church denomination. (Applause.)
Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla for a motion concerning the non-privileged resolution just introduced naming Lombard Street between 6th and 7th Streets as "Bishop Richard Allen Way."
Thank you, Mr. President. I move the rules of Council be suspended to permit the consideration of this non-privileged resolution that we just read into the record by the Chief Clerk at today's Council session. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor of the motion signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries, and the resolution 20 will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring and congratulating the Science Leadership Academy/Palumbo Girls Lacrosse Team upon winning the 2026 Philadelphia Public League Girls Lacrosse Championship, recognizing their undefeated season, outstanding athletic achievement, leadership, perseverance and positive impact as role models in their school and community.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. I offer one privileged resolution today.
Thank you very much. Chief Clerk, please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring Lankenau Environmental Science Magnet School and standing in solidarity with Lankenau and other schools slated for closure as a result of the proposed School District of Philadelphia's Facilities Plan.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage 1ST READING Calendar. There being no reports from committees today, the next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning bills on First Reading Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following bill on the First Reading Calendar is being held: Bill No. 260298.
The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning certain resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar: Nos. 260481, 260613, 260615, 260619, 260620, 260623, 260624, 260625, 260626 and 260628. The following resolutions on the Calendar are being held: 260614.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the resolutions just read by Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson. in favor please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. We will consider the Resolution Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning the bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following bills on the Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 260164, 260165, 260211, 260239, 260300, 260378, 260382, 260383, 260384, 260390, 260422, 260425, 260426, 260427, 260464-A, 260506, 260510, 260522, 260523, 260524, 260529, 260531, 260532, 260534, 260535, 260536 and 260564. The following bills on the Calendar being held: 250768, 250807 and 260528. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider a bill just read by Councilmember Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson. All in favor please indicate by saying aye. 2ND READING (Aye.)
The ayes have it. And we will consider the Bill Consent Agenda shortly. Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for the purpose of calling up any additional resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar and bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions are being called up from the Final Passage Calendar and the following bills are being 2ND READING called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Resolution Nos. 260270, 260629, 260632. Bill Nos. 251020, 251021, 260199, 260200, 260201, 260203, 260204, 260205, 260206, 260241, 260264-A, 260299, 260303, 260380, 260423, 260428, 260431, 260461, 260465-A, 260507, 260509, 260511, 260512, 260513, 260517, 260518, 260519, 260520, 260521, 260527, 260530, 260533. The following resolutions and bills on the Calendar are being held: 260381, 260508 and 260533. (Duly seconded.)
Good job, Majority Leader. Sam Staten over there, Jr., welcome to City Council, sir. (Applause.)
Before considering these resolutions and bills, we will consider public comment as follows: Your public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for possible action in today's Council session. All speakers must sign up in order to testify. If not already signed up for today's session, please do so now by giving your name to Ms. Hasson at the table outside the rails on 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 comments each will have three minutes to speak. However, this time may vary session to session. Today the timer, due to the repetitious comments on the very same subject matter, will be one minute. In order to be fair to all those wishes to speak, I tend to hold faithful to the one-minute limit. When you begin speaking, you will see a green light on the podium. When there are 30 seconds remaining to your time, the light will turn yellow, which is your reminder to please conclude your remarks. Once the one-minute limit has passed, the light will turn red and the Sergeant-at-Arms will disconnect the microphone. Please respect our Sergeant-at-Arms. He's only doing his job. At that point, please yield the podium to the next speaker if you have not done so already, because we want to give as many people an opportunity to speak as possible on the public comment sign-in sheet. I also reserve the right, pursuant to the rules of City Council, to limit repetitious comments on the same subject matter. I will now ask the Chief Clerk to please read the name of our first speaker.
Excuse me. Council will be at ease. Just one second. Chair recognizes Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I want to be marked present for Council, but also ask for leave for official Council business and be marked aye on all bills and resolutions.
Leave will be granted and you will be officially voted aye on all bills and resolutions. I can't see over there. Don't laugh, y'all, 52. Council will resume.
The Girls Palumbo SLA Lacrosse Team, please come to the podium. Hans Van Mol, on behalf of Johanna McClinton, Ken Hamilton, Matthew Neenan, Rose Jarbeaux, Nell Bang Jensen, Terry Garen, Jasmine Jiang, Allen Kuharski, William Smalls, Evelyn Torres and David Alexander Jenkins, please come to the podium. We have the Palumbo Lacrosse team, Hans Van Mol, on behalf of Speaker McClinton, Ken Hamilton, Matthew Neenan, Rose Jarbeaux, Nell Bang Jensen, Terry Garen, Jasmine Jiang, Allen Kuharski, William Smalls, Evelyn Torres and David Alexander Jenkins, please make your way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Hi. My name is Hannah Weldon and I'm a senior at Science Leadership Academy. I would like to thank the City Council and Councilwoman Cindy Bass for the opportunity to be here today with our team, as they prepare to graduate later today. I would like to say it has been a great honor to help lead the S&P Girls Lacrosse Team this season, alongside my fellow captains. At this time, I would like to acknowledge the team and the undefeated season that led us to victory at the District championship. The girls on this team are incredibly talented and dedicated. The success of our team has been supported by the funding of public school sports programs in Philadelphia. Resources provided to our schools allow teams like ours to have access to proper equipment and opportunities to compete. The continued interest in investing these athletic programs ensures that every student has the chance to explore the potential, contribute to their school community and develop skills that will serve them for life. Thank you for supporting our schools and recognizing how important it is for funding and success of student athletes in Philadelphia. (Applause.)
Good morning, Madam President, and to the members of Council. My name is Marquis Bell, and I stand today on behalf of the Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Representative Johanna McClinton, in full support and to testify of the renaming of the 61st and Baltimore after Mr. Tyrone Sims. Tyrone "Cakes" Sims is a legendary community leader, youth mentor, educator and advocate whose impact has shaped Southwest Philadelphia and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for more than five decades. As a founder of the Concerned Men of Cobbs Creek, a mentor to countless young people through athletics and community programming, and a dedicated public server in both the Pennsylvania House of Representatives as well as the Pennsylvania Senate, he has devoted his life to building stronger communities and creating pathways for future generations. For decades, Mr. Sims has also served within the School District of Philadelphia where he impacted the lives of countless young people across the City of Philadelphia. Through his work on our schools, he had become a trusted mentor, role model and source of encouragement for generations, helping them navigate challenges through their journey. And on behalf of the Speaker, we are grateful to this chamber for recognizing the man whose life work has made Philadelphia stronger and more hopeful. Thank you so much. (Applause.)