Stated Meeting 1 02/29/2024 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, February 29, 2024 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILMAN CURTIS J. JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY M. LOZADA COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK F. SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM-NAZARIO, INTERIM CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting 2 02/29/2024
Good morning, everyone. Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)
I note that the hour has come and a quorum of the Council is present. Council will now come to order. Members will take your seats. Visitors will retire to their seats outside the rails. Before proceeding, I'd like to ask that all those present to please set your cell phones to silent or vibrate. Thank you. All of us in Philadelphia City Council extend our deepest condolences in the recent passing of our esteemed colleague Council Chief Clerk Michael Decker. I want to ask everyone to stand so we can have a moment of silence in his memory. (Moment of silence.) Stated Meeting 3 02/29/2024
Thank you. Council Chief Clerk Michael Decker has dedicated service spanning over 36 years in City Council and has left an indelible mark on our city. Michael was a diligent public servant and a cornerstone in City Council. His commitment and invaluable contribution to the efficient functioning of our legislative body will be remembered with gratitude and respect. He became Chief Clerk starting in September of 2009 under the late Council President Anna Verna. He served under three Council Presidents, Anna Verna, former Council President Darrell Clarke and myself until his passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Michael's family, friends and colleagues. Stated Meeting 4 02/29/2024 to rest tomorrow March 1st and we share in the sorrow of his loss and will forever cherish the memories of his unwavering dedication to the betterment of Philadelphia. I would like to thank Elizabeth McCollum for her willingness to serve as Interim Chief Clerk during our transition. At this moment I will ask for Father Mark Kunigonis, Pastor of the St. John Cantius Catholic Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilmember Driscoll. I will ask for all members and guests to please rise. And I want to also thank Pastor Mark for also doing a special prayer for our beloved Chief Clerk Mike Decker.
Thank you very much for having me here today. I thank Councilman Driscoll for inviting me, and I bring Stated Meeting 5 02/29/2024 of St. John Cantius and the citizens of Bridesburg. Our prayer this morning is dedicated to Michael Decker and his memory and his soul. Let us pray. God of power and might, wisdom and justice, through you authority is rightly administered. Laws are enacted and judgment is decreed. We come to you today asking for your guidance, your wisdom and your support as you begin this City Council session. Assist with your spirit of Council and fortitude, these Councilmembers of the City of Philadelphia. Unite our lawmakers beyond the personal agendas, fostering wisdom and understanding for the betterment of our city. May they always seek the ways of righteousness, justice and mercy. Stated Meeting 6 02/29/2024 be enabled by your powerful protection to lead our city with honesty and with integrity. Let the (inaudible) of this governing body stir thoughtprovoking ideas that positively shape our local government. As we embark on this journey, may your guiding hand be evident in every decision made, grant us steadfastness and respect for diversity as we serve together for community development. We pray this as we pray all prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks the Pastor's invocation. Council will now be at ease. (Council at ease.) Stated Meeting 7 02/29/2024
The next order of business is the approval of Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 15th of 2024. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 15, 2024 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting on Thursday, February 15th of 2024 stand approved. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Stated Meeting 8 02/29/2024 and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is request for leave of absences. And the Chair recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. On behalf of the Minority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
Thank you very much. Stated Meeting 9 02/29/2024 now recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session of Council that were not listed on the Calendar circulated prior to today's session.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that any of the matters, if considered today, may be added to the agenda to 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 recalled from the Mayor, amendments to bills recalled Stated Meeting 10 02/29/2024 Mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on this session, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar and a motion placing a bill or resolution on or returning a bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to be included on the Calendar that was published prior to today's session.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson may be Stated Meeting 11 02/29/2024 the agenda for today should those matters arise during the course of this session of Council. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in the chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate you taking the time to join us as we attend the legislative affairs of Stated Meeting 12 02/29/2024 certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass who will present a resolution honoring Renee Chenault-Fattah for her unwavering dedication and commitment to excellence throughout her esteemed career. Would Renee Chenault-Fattah and those accompanying her please join the Councilmember at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
Councilmember, before you start your presentation, the Councilmember will be joined by Councilmember Kendra Brooks, Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Stated Meeting 13 02/29/2024 Richardson, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, Councilmember Rue Landau and Councilmember Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Mr. President. And I want to start again. Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)
We also want to invite anyone who is a part of Renee's village as a member of the Links who is in journalism or any of the many other areas that Renee is being recognized for today to please feel free to join us this morning. And as we gather here today to honor Renee, we stand at the intersection of two significant observances, Black History Month and Women's History Month. This is the perfect time to reflect on the profound contributions of Black Stated Meeting 14 02/29/2024 resilience, courage and brilliance have shaped our world in numerous ways, from being broadcast as a reporter to serving as leadership of numerous organizations to practicing law. Today we come together to honor and celebrate the achievements of one remarkable woman Renee Chenault-Fattah. (Applause.)
Her impact transcends boundaries and inspires us all. In recognizing her accomplishments, we not only pay tribute to her individual journey but also acknowledge the countless narratives of strength, leadership and excellence within the community of Black women. And I do want to say this morning as I was driving in, on the radio I heard a song and it really Stated Meeting 15 02/29/2024 me. And it was from Teddy Pendergrass and it was "Somebody Told Me to Deliver This Message." And I thought about journalism and how important it is to not just get the story, but to get the story right and also to have diversity in that newsroom. So I want to take -- this is an opportunity to say on behalf of all of us that we thank you, Renee, for all of your contributions to journalism here in Philadelphia and moving the City forward. So that being said, whereas an American journalist and former co-anchor of the WCAU NBC10 News, Renee Chenault-Fattah has served three decades proven to be a beacon of journalistic integrity. With ease, she illuminated the stories of our communities with compassion, Stated Meeting 16 02/29/2024 professionalism; and
Whereas Renee Chenault-Fattah has demonstrated leadership, bringing her perspective to each story while simultaneously embodying objectivity. She is an inspiration to her colleagues and viewers alike. Earning a Master's of Arts in Journalism from the University of Missouri, after a few years co-anchoring the news broadcast, she was promoted to the 4:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. news where she spent her next eight years co-anchoring; and
Whereas through film, Renee Chenault-Fattah has helped to voice those who have been impacted by dementia, directing a documentary entitled "In Our Right Mind: Stated Meeting 17 02/29/2024 Impact In Communities of Color," in which she bravely showcased her own journey with her aunt who suffered from the disorder; and
Whereas Renee Chenault-Fattah undoubtedly left a unique mark throughout her journey. She has shown intelligence and grace under pressure and continues to look in the direction of other's lives with interest and stories that impact women as well as health disparities because of racial and economic inequality.
Whereas Renee Chenault-Fattah has spoken before universities, audiences, church congregations and civic organizations about the issues concerning health disparity law, education and ethics, and currently serves as a trustee of Stated Meeting 18 02/29/2024 a former trustee of Springside Chestnut Hill Academy, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Philadelphia Lawyers for Social Equity, served on the Board of the Philadelphia Zoo and a member of the Penn Towne Links, Inc.; and
Whereas Renee Chenault-Fattah's most notable stories included political conventions and the school shooting massacre in Litteton, Colorado, her hometown. She was inducted into the Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia Hall of Fame in 2009; and
Whereas Renee Chenault-Fattah earned her Bachelor's degree in Political Science from John Hopkins where she received the Black Alumni President's Award and earned her career in law by first graduating Stated Meeting 19 02/29/2024 Pennsylvania Law School, where she received an alumni award of merit where working at Hughes Hubbard & Reed in New York City and clerking for the late Judge Damon Keith on the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.
Therefore by virtue of this citation, the Council of the City of Philadelphia hereby honors Renee Chenault-Fattah for being an active member of the community and an inspiration to countless individuals. And I just want to add that if this body, if the folks in this building have really learned nothing else in the last couple of weeks, what we've learned is to give our flowers to her friends while they are here to smell them. And so, it is with great honor and Stated Meeting 20 02/29/2024 to recognize my friend Renee Chenault-Fattah and thank her for all of the work that she's done on behalf of the City of Philadelphia. (Applause.)
Chair recognizes Renee ChenaultFattah for remarks. Congratulations.
Thank you. I am speechless, which is no easy feat for somebody who is both a lawyer and a journalist. I always say the only people who like to hear themselves talk more than lawyers are journalists, and yet I am struggling to find the words to let you know how much this means to me to be standing here with my sisters, to see President Johnson, to see, you know, I look out -- I don't even know where to begin. And this is dangerous because I Stated Meeting 21 02/29/2024 full agenda. But I do want to say just a few words. First, let me just start off by saying to hear about the passing of Mike Decker, because I worked so many years in journalism, I know how important he was to this institution and what a loss it is, so it breaks my heart to hear that loss. My heart is full today. I struggle to find the words in part because this recognition is coming from City Council. I so admire and respect the sacrifices that you all make for this City. The fact that you're public servants, that you give them your time, because you care and you love Philadelphia. As you heard from this, I felt like my life was flashing before me. But, you know, I'm not from Philadelphia. I was born in Ohio. I grew up in Colorado. I Stated Meeting 22 02/29/2024 Baltimore. I practiced law in New York and Detroit. When I went into T.V., I got a journalism in /Missoura/, because that's how they say it out there. I worked in T.V. markets in L.A. and Atlanta and New York and New Jersey. And I say all that to say that over all those years, there is no city I loved more, no place I would rather be than right here in Philadelphia. (Applause.)
And I promise I'm not going to go on much longer, but I do have to say I really feel like I owe this City so very much. Philadelphia gave me my law degree -- well, no, no, I earned that law degree at the University of Pennsylvania Law School. It just happened here. But certainly, Philadelphia gave me Stated Meeting 23 02/29/2024 tell you how rewarding it is to walk down the street or even this morning when young people come up to me and say, hey, I grew up watching you or they were watching when I was pregnant with my girls who are now 20 and 25, so that let's you know how long ago it was, or people will remind me of the fact, the time when I fainted on the air covering the Olympics in Atlanta. People don't forget things. So you gave me my career. Not just that career, but I just finished Philadelphia Lawyers Social for Equity. City Council was so supportive and instrumental. Councilman Jones, thank you so much for the support you gave our organization in giving people second chances. I was at Senior Law Center. The amazing thing City Stated Meeting 24 02/29/2024 Councilwoman Brooks, my God, the things you do around housing and tenants that support our seniors. (Applause.)
I can go on and on. Like you said, I mean you see I found my words. But I owe this City. This is where I met and married my husband. This is where we raised our kids. My parents, my God, after 40 years of living in Colorado they moved here, and they both -- this is their final resting place here in Philadelphia. So Philadelphia is home. And this has made me just want to sort of rededicate myself to helping however I can in this amazing time when we're being lead by this incredibly diverse City Council, more diverse than ever and Stated Meeting 25 02/29/2024 board, and being led by a Mayor who, my God, my girls can look at her and see themselves in her. This is an incredible time. So thank you. I'm going to stop. Like I said, I honestly found my words and then some. Thank you very much. This means more to me than I can say, but I try. Thank you. Thank you so very much. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Phillips who will present a resolution recognizing the 10th graders at Hill-Freedman World Academy for being featured in the HBO documentary Stand Up & Shout: Songs from a Philly High School. Stated Meeting 26 02/29/2024 those accompanying him please join the Councilmember at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
The Councilmember is joined by Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Councilmember Driscoll, Councilmember Squilla, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
All right. As Hill-Freedman comes to the rostrum, I just want to briefly say that I am proud to say that in a city where too often young people have been noted as not being as engaged, being as responsible, we have a group of responsible young people who are doing the right thing thanks to the leadership of Stated Meeting 27 02/29/2024 outstanding music instructor Mr. Thurman and Principal Majewski. Thank you. But I just want to briefly say that I had the privilege to sit through the concert that Hill-Freedman World Academy did, Stand Up & Shout last year. And when I tell you y'all killed it, y'all killed it. I mean, these kids got energy and excitement and talent. So today we're going to recognize them for not only doing this incredible concert, but having this incredible -- so incredible to the point that HBO did a documentary recognizing all their musical talents, right. In addition to that, this school thanks to the support of Principal Majewski and Mr. Thurman who leads the initiative have world class Stated Meeting 28 02/29/2024 as other technology that allowed these young people to flourish. So I want to say that today we are pleased to support and celebrate all of your artistic and creative endeavors. And I'm happy that we're able to present you to the City of Philadelphia all the way from Mt. Airy 19150 and we're beyond excited to say thank you all so much. So we're going to kick it off. Afterwards Principal Ma -Mr. Thurman is going to give some remarks about what you all have done, but I just want to say we're so proud of y'all. (Applause.)
All right. So today's resolution we're recognizing -- today we'll start off with our resolution which will be followed by other Councilmembers. We're recognizing Stated Meeting 29 02/29/2024 10th graders at Hill-Freedman World Academy for being featured in the HBO -- oh, 10th to 12th right, there we go. We're recognizing the entire Hill-Freedman World Academy for being featured in the HBO documentary Stand Up & Shout: Songs from a Philly high School, whereas the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to support and celebrate the artistic and creative endeavors of young Philadelphians, and whereas students at Hill-Freedman World Academy have demonstrated an impressive talent for songwriting and the musicship. The music they have written and produced beautifully portrays their nuance experiences as Philadelphia youth.
And whereas their laudable musical undertaking is featured in the HBO documentary Stated Meeting 30 02/29/2024 & Shout: Songs from a Philly High School. Their documentary underscores the importance of their artistic expression and highlights all their inspiring musical creations, and whereas the students' immense success so early in their musical careers demonstrates the importance of adequately funding artistic outlets for students in and out of academic settings; and
Whereas in all that the students of Hill-Freedman World Academy have done, they have furthered the progress of our City of Philadelphia who through dedication and excellence contribute in a meaningful way to the well-being of their communities through music, art and film are integral to the functioning wholesomeness of the vibrance of our city, as such the Stated Meeting 31 02/29/2024 Academy are much appreciated; and
Whereas the Council of the City of Philadelphia does hereby extend its sincere gratitude to the students of Hill-Freedman World Academy for their extraordinary contributions through our communities. We wish them success in the days ahead and extend the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body. Therefore be it --
Resolve that the Council of the City of Philadelphia recognizes the 10th graders at Hill-Freedman World Academy, 10th through 12th, for being featured in the HBO documentary Stand Up & Shout: Songs from a Philadelphia High School.
Further resolve that an embossed Stated Meeting 32 02/29/2024 the students of Hill-Freedman World Academy, further evidencing the sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body. (Applause.)
So we will -- just before we -- oh, yes. I just want to say thank you all for making this happen, the Chairman of Education, I'm the Vice-Chair of Education, Isaiah Thomas, these are the things that we want to see more of in the City of Philadelphia. So you guys are doing the work. Continue to do it. I love y'all. Continue to press forward and continue to make not only the 9th District proud, but the entire City of Philadelphia proud. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Ezechial Stated Meeting 33 02/29/2024
Thank you. On behalf of the Hill-Freedman World Academy school community, we'd like to thank Councilmember Phillips and all the Councilmembers here, of course Council President Johnson for this great honor for our amazing 12th grade students. They were 10th graders when the film was documented, but we want to be really clear, we're so proud of these students. An example, Hill-Freedman's program is very unique in that it's not a music class. It's everyone in the 10th grade makes a record whether they love music or not. And so, we have this amazing journey of writing songs, creating music, publishing an album. And HBO, executive produced by John Legend jumped in for a year-and-a-half filming in the Stated Meeting 34 02/29/2024 Up & Shout. We do want to also acknowledge while we're in this hollowed building Mayor Parker. She's been a huge advocate support of our program. She's been on albums and recordings with students in videos and actually helped support the program. And of course her Chief of Staff, my better half Tiffany Thurman. But these students certainly stand alone for their talents and abilities. And we encourage everyone in the room if you have Max, please see the documentary. It's up and it's streaming worldwide, feedback coming from Europe, all around. People can't believe the amazing work that our Hill-Freedman students in Philly, high school students are doing leading innovation and change in education. Stated Meeting 35 02/29/2024 students. Got to give some credit, thank you to of course our school community. Working in public schools takes a deep, deep commitment with lots of hard labor. So first, to our innovative strong leader, the head of school, Principal Majewski. Let's give it up for him. (Applause.)
We got to thank Hill-Freedman teachers and all teachers, thank you for the 5 percent bump yesterday by the way everyone who was a part of that. We appreciate it. And we want to thank our staff. We're there day-in and day-out laboring and supporting students. Also, of course Dr. Watlington, our Assistant Superintendent James Gordon and all the District-level staff that supports students every Stated Meeting 36 02/29/2024 go outside the District to do this one because it's so outside the box and different so we had to rely on nonprofit support. And we were very blessed to find some partners that had deep pockets. And I just want to say we can never overspend on amazing students who have the future in their hands. (Applause.)
And with the last two seconds that I have, we need to acknowledge Hal Real from World Cafe Live, the founder and president of that venue, have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars over a seven-year span investing into this program, providing his contacts, his connections and his artists, including some really prominent ones that are featured in the film. Stated Meeting 37 02/29/2024 at Hill-Freedman, I want to acknowledge Kristal Tytewriter Oliver, I want to acknowledge Andrew Lipke and Bethlehem Roberson who you'll see in the film when you check it out. Also, Hal Real was joined by David Bradley who is the head of their Education Division, and these folks poured into our students. We also have been partnered by Elevate 215 and Spring Point, and I mean big numbers, not a little small amount but large amounts of money. We want to acknowledge them. Finally, HBO and John Legend. In addition to making the film, John Legend has donated along with his partners Mike Jackson and Ty Stiklorius, they donated 100k to the Hill-Freedman records program to help keep it moving forward. Can we give it up Stated Meeting 38 02/29/2024 his colleagues Mike Jackson and Ty Stiklorius. (Applause.)
We want to thank Amy Schatz. She's the awardwinning director from HBO that saw this, heard it and decided to tell the story worldwide. What an exciting thing for our school, for our students. And most recently, a really famous Philadelphian, a guy named Jordan Mailata, who's been in our studio and recorded with our students and he just donated another 100,000 to our program. We wanted to acknowledge him publicly and thank him. (Applause.)
I know I'm over time. Thank you again, Council. Thank you, everyone. Thank you, students. We are so honored to have you with us and God bless. Stated Meeting 39 02/29/2024 (Applause.)
The next order of business is the communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications in her possession.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting for the consideration of your Honorable Body a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee Stated Meeting 40 02/29/2024 214 North 5th Street in the 7th Councilmanic District in the City of Philadelphia; and A resolution appointing James Aros, Jr. to the position of Chief Assessment Officer of the Office of Property Assessment; and An ordinance amending Title 9 Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions of The Philadelphia Code to add a new chapter concerning protections for consumers against unfair methods of competition and unfair or deceptive acts or practices and providing remedies; and A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fees simple title to 2903, 2907 and 2925 Cecil B. Moore Avenue in the 5th Stated Meeting 41 02/29/2024 City of Philadelphia; and A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 5307 Market Street and 723 North Sedgwick Street in the 3rd Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia; and A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 61, 65, 77, 23, 24, 44, 49, 51, 53, 55, 57, 67, 73, 78, 89, 93 and 106 Ashmead Street. 18, 34, 61, and 87 Collom Street, 69, 71, 89, 91, 93 and 95 East Wister Street in the 8th Councilmanic District in the City of Philadelphia; and Stated Meeting 42 02/29/2024 5th Amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Tioga Urban Renewal Area being the area generally bounded by Hunting Park Avenue on the north, Broad Street, Germantown Avenue, Venango Street, 15th Street, Allegheny Avenue and Germantown Avenue on the east, Glenwood Avenue and Lehigh Avenue on the south and 23rd Street, Allegheny Avenue and 22nd Street on the west, including the 5th Amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan, which provides for changes that would make it consistent with the Tioga Redevelopment Area Plan and generally consistent with the most recent comprehensive plan approved by the City Planning Commission of the City of Philadelphia; and pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am Stated Meeting 43 02/29/2024 transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: 240012, 240020, 240063, 240064, 240065, 240066, 240086. There are no further communications in my possession, Council President.
Thank you. The message will be printed in the Journal. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Phillips.
Councilmember -- Council President, I have one privileged resolution, but just want to quickly say with the privileged resolution, we have the organization, the United States of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine here recognizing Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Stated Meeting 44 02/29/2024 so you all can please stand. So I just want to say thank you.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing March 2024 as Colorectal Awareness Month and promoting the public awareness of the risk of colon cancer.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Katherine Gilmore Richardson.
Good morning, Council President. Today I offer four resolutions on your behalf; three privileged and one non-privileged.
Will the Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions. Stated Meeting 45 02/29/2024
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the creation of the Philadelphia Task Force on Food and Insecurity to study and develop proposals, strategies and recommendations to alleviate hunger and increase access to high quality food in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
A privileged resolution honoring Kenneth E. Lawrence, Jr. on his appointment as Board Chair at the Southeastern Transportation Authority and recognizing Mr. Lawrence for his dedication to improving transit service across the SEPTA network.
This resolution will be placed on Stated Meeting 46 02/29/2024 today's Final Passage Calendar.
A privileged resolution congratulating the Audenried High School Girls Basketball Team for winning the 2024 Public League Championship.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring the Defender Association of Philadelphia on the 90th anniversary of the Association's founding and recognizing the contributions of the Association and its attorneys to Philadelphia's criminal justice system.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
Stated Meeting 47 02/29/2024 Thank you, Council President. Today I offer three resolutions; one privileged resolution, one non-privileged resolution and one non-privileged resolution on your behalf.
One privileged resolution, honoring Mr. Abdul-Rahim Muhammad on the occasion of Black History Month for his contributions to West Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
A non-privileged resolution appointing James Aros, Jr. to the position of Chief Assessment Officer of the Office of Property Assessment.
Stated Meeting 48 02/29/2024 This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a non-privileged authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 5307 Market Street and 734 North Sedgwick Street in the 3rd Councilmanic District.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas.
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Today I offer two Stated Meeting 49 02/29/2024 resolutions.
Will the Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions.
A privileged resolution honoring and congratulating the Educator of the Month, Elaine Estes, a Spanish teacher at Furness High School who recently participated at the U.S. Olympic Trials as a marathon runner.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing the life and legacy of Baba Joe Foster, a community leader in the movement for African-centered education in Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Stated Meeting 50 02/29/2024 The Chair recognizes Councilman Curtis Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman for her leadership as the first female and first Black Chief Executive Officer and President of the Philadelphia Zoo.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
Good morning, Council President and colleagues. Stated Meeting 51 02/29/2024 I offer today one bill and two privileged resolutions.
Will the Clerk please read the titles of the bill and the resolutions.
An ordinance amending Title 9 Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions of The Philadelphia Code to add a new chapter concerning protections for consumers against unfair methods of competition and unfair or deceptive acts or practices and providing remedies, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring Joy Parham-Thomas for her impactful contributions to a thriving Black food culture in Philadelphia as a Stated Meeting 52 02/29/2024 chef, culinary educator and advocate for food justice.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Calendar.
And a privileged resolution authorizing Philadelphia City Council to conduct hearings to investigate the efficiency, implementation and enhancement of the outdoor dining program and improve opportunities for restaurants to operate streeteries and sidewalk cafés.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one bill and one non-privileged resolution on your behalf. Stated Meeting 53 02/29/2024
Thank you. Will the Clerk please read the titles of the bill and resolution.
An ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of two new lightpoles and three existing lightpoles in the vicinity of the southeast and northwest corners of John F. Kennedy Boulevard and North Broad Streets and the northeast corner of John F. Kennedy Boulevard and North Juniper Street, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing and ratifying the designation of Councilmember Jeffrey Young, Jr. as Council's Stated Meeting 54 02/29/2024 representative in connection with an appeal of the decision of the Zoning Board of Adjustment with respect to 1451 North Broad Street and all litigation related thereto.
This resolution will be placed on a Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Lozada.
Good morning, Council President. I have no bills and no resolutions this morning.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Good morning, Council President. I have four privileged resolutions to introduce today.
A resolution Stated Meeting 55 02/29/2024 honoring and recognizing the work and accomplishments of Denise Ripley, whose dedication to the City to community service and to the housing rights of all have invigorated and supported civic life in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
A privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Prudence Powell for her powerful advocacy, lover for her community and her inspiring work to keep families and Philadelphia whole and to provide sanctuary and stability to all.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
A privileged resolution honoring and recognizing the life, work and accomplishments Stated Meeting 56 02/29/2024 of Rochelle Nichols-Solomon whose dedication to serving, teaching and advocating for students and marginalized peoples has improved the lives of people across the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing the work and accomplishments of the Stadium Stompers whose dedication to advocating for the North Phila -(Applause.)
-- for the North Philadelphia community and for housing rights for all people have helped secure neighborhood stability for communities in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on Stated Meeting 57 02/29/2024 today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Jim Harrity.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapters 11-203 and 11-204 of The Philadelphia Code to impose penalties, applicants for failure to comply with the terms of their permit for the complete and satisfactory replacement of the permanent paving.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Nicolas Nic O'Rourke.
Blessings, Council President. I have no bills or Stated Meeting 58 02/29/2024 resolutions to introduce today.
Morning, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution today.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution proclaiming the month of March in 2024 as Irish Heritage Month in the City of Philadelphia and honoring the St. Patrick's Day Observance Association of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank Stated Meeting 59 02/29/2024 you, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring and celebrating the life and legacy of former Chief Clerk Michael Andrew Decker, our friend, colleague and dedicated public servant.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mark Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer three bills and two non-privileged resolutions.
Will the Clerk please read the titles of the bills and Stated Meeting 60 02/29/2024 resolutions.
An ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk café in the vicinity of 2401 East Norris Street, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance authorizing Pat Olivieri d/b/a Pat's King of Steaks to vend from a location in the right-of-way adjacent to Pat's Steaks location in the vicinity of 9th and Wharton Streets, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance authorizing Norris Street Holdings, LLC, to install, own and maintain a Stated Meeting 61 02/29/2024 streetery in the right-of-way adjacent to 2401 East Norris Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19125-2913, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming Federal Street between 6th and 7th Streets as Bob Pantano Way.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming Chestnut Street between 12th and 13th Streets in the Gayborhood as Michael Hinson Way to honor the life and legacy of Philadelphia's first appointed -- Stated Meeting 62 02/29/2024 (Applause.)
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for the next consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions this week.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution.
Will the Clerk please the title of Stated Meeting 63 02/29/2024
A privileged resolution celebrating the life and honoring the memory of trailblazing physician, researcher and humanitarian Dr. Edith Peterson Mitchell.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The next order of business is reports from Committees. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Rules reports five bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the reports. Stated Meeting 64 02/29/2024
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia. The Committee on Rules to which was referred Bill No. 240020, entitled Amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," all under certain terms and conditions, Stated Meeting 65 02/29/2024 considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation; and The Committee on Rules to which was referred Bill No. 240064, entitled, To Amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Salmon Street, Ontario Street, Richmond Street and Westmoreland Street respectfully reports it has considered the same and has returned the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation; and The Committee on Rules to which was referred Bill No. 240065, entitled To Amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded Stated Meeting 66 02/29/2024 Avenue, Academy Road and Willits Road, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation; and The Committee on Rules to which was referred Bill No. 240066, entitled To Amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Wood Street, 4th Street, Vine Street and Lawrence Street, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Stated Meeting 67 02/29/2024 as to permit first reading this day of the four bills that were just read into the record by the Clerk. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of this day of Bill Nos. 240020, 240064, 240065 and 240066. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and these bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Driscoll for a report from the Committee on Licenses and Stated Meeting 68 02/29/2024
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Licenses and Inspections reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Licenses and Inspections to which was referred Bill No. 240013, entitled Amending Chapter 9-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Service and Other Businesses," by adding a new section regulating the hours of operation of certain establishments and providing for penalties within an area bounded by East Lehigh Avenue, Kensington Stated Meeting 69 02/29/2024 Avenue, D Street, East Tioga Street and Frankford Avenue, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 240013. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading on this day of Bill No. 240013. Stated Meeting 70 02/29/2024 will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
And this bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones for a report from the Committee on Public Safety.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Public Safety offers one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Stated Meeting 71 02/29/2024 Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Safety to which was referred Bill No. 240010, entitled Amending Chapter 9-5900 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Prohibition on Certain Gambling Machines and Skills Games," to add additional prohibitions and provide for remedies, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returned the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you again, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading of Bill No. 240010. (Duly seconded.)
Stated Meeting 72 02/29/2024 and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 240010. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and this bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas for a report from the Committee on Education.
Thank you, Council President. The Committee on Education reports out one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Stated Meeting 73 02/29/2024 Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Education to which was referred Bill No. 240007, entitled Amending the Philadelphia Code to add a new Chapter 21-3400, entitled "Youth, Name, Image and Likeness Protection," to establish provisions related to education and counseling for certain Philadelphia youth and their families who are considering licensing publicity rights, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Stated Meeting 74 02/29/2024 Thomas.
Thank you, Council President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the first reading on this day of Bill No. 240007. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 240007. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and this bill will be placed on our First Reading Stated Meeting 75 02/29/2024 2ND READING Calendar for today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from Committee with the suspension of rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Gilmore Richardson for the purpose of calling up resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar: Nos. 240103, 240107, 240108, 240109, 240111 and 24112. Stated Meeting 76 02/29/2024
Thank you. Before considering these resolutions, we will consider public comment as follows: Your public comment must concern matters of the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for possible action at today's Council session. All speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already signed up for today's session, please do so by giving your name to Ms. Wendy Prescott at the table outside the rails to my left -- to Ms. Hassan who's over there. Once you have signed up, you will be called in the order in which your name appears on the sign-up sheet. Under ideal circumstances, public commenters will have three minutes to speak. However, the time will vary from time to time and session to Stated Meeting 77 02/29/2024 session. Today's time limit will be two minutes. In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the two-minute limit. When you begin speaking, you will see a green light on the podium. When there is 30 seconds remaining to your time, the light will turn yellow which is your reminder to conclude your remarks. Once two minutes have passed, the light will turn red and the Sergeant-at-Arms will disconnect the microphone. At that point, please yield the podium to the next speaker if you have not done so already. I also reserve the right pursuant to our rules of Council to limit repetitious comments on the same matter. I will now ask the Clerk to please read the name of our first Stated Meeting 78 02/29/2024 speaker.
Amanda Ayala, in support of a resolution Gauthier introduced and adopted today. Amanda Ayala. Council President, she's signifying she's upstairs. Give her time to come down and come back?
Ms. Ayala, if you'd like to make your way down. In the meantime, Zak Pyzik in support of a Landau resolution introduced and adopted today. (No response.)
Are you here, Zak? (Witness approached podium.)
Zak Pyzik. Good morning, Council President Kenyatta Johnson and fellow Stated Meeting 79 02/29/2024 Councilmembers. My name is Zak Pyzik and I'm the Senior Director of Public Affairs at the Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association, representing 400 operators in Philadelphia and more than 5,000 members statewide. Firstly, thank you to this Council in its prior efforts in formalizing the City's permanent Outdoor Dining program. I also commend Councilmember Rue Landau for introducing this resolution today authorizing City Council to conduct hearings on the City's Outdoor Dining program. While streeteries have become an integral part to the City both for residents and visitors, it's important to recognize that the Streetery program is relatively new to Philadelphia. Given the program's novelties and the recent changes to the Administration and Stated Meeting 80 02/29/2024 City Council, we believe it's critical for Philadelphia to evaluate the current program comprehensively assessing what is and isn't effective. PRLA supports Councilmember Landau's resolution marking the initiation of this critical dialogue. The collaboration between this body, the former administration and stakeholders across various industries ensured the permanence of outdoor seating in Philadelphia, and for that we express our gratitude. As with any new initiative, enhancements can be made. The increased opportunities for outdoor dining showcase the creativity of our businesses, providing a unique dining experience for residents and visitors. I should also note that there is urgency to this conversation not only due to spring Stated Meeting 81 02/29/2024 and summer being on the horizon, but especially given all the visitors we intend to host as a region in 2026. Last week the Administration released a new streetery licensed guide offering updated guidance to owners and operators facilitating outdoor dining. We commend this step and hope it signals a commitment to providing certainty, predictability and guidance to the hospitality industry. Philadelphia's thriving restaurant scene, predominantly locally-owned and reflecting diverse backgrounds, contributes significantly to the City's appeal for visitors and residents. The hospitality industry not only creates jobs but fosters a sense of community in our neighborhoods. The Streetery program has Stated Meeting 82 02/29/2024 opened new opportunities for operators and diners alike benefiting restaurants and their surroundings. Once again, thank you, Councilmember Landau and this body, for initiating this very important conversation. We look forward to working with you and collaborating in any way we can. PRLA stands ready to assist in any way possible as we collectively move forward. Thank you.
Thank you. Will the Clerk please call the next person for public comment.
Erica Brown commenting on 240109, Violence Incident Clearance Act. (No response.)
Did Amanda make her way down yet? Stated Meeting 83 02/29/2024