Stated Meeting, September 25, 2025

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, September 25, 2025 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILMAN CURTIS J. JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY M. LOZADA COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, CHIEF CLERK

Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)

I note that the hour has come. A quorum of this Council is present. City Council will now come to order. I'm asking for our members to please take your seats. Visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. Before proceeding, I will ask all those present to please set your cell phones on silent and/or vibrate and please take all sidebar conversations outside of the Council chambers. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Rabbi Isabel de Koninck, Senior Rabbi and Executive Director of the Drexel University at Hillel. She is here today as the guest of Jones, Jr. I will ask all members and guests to please rise. (Councilmembers, guests and visitors rise.)

Good morning, everyone. Thank you so much, Councilman Jones, for having me here today at this particularly auspicious time for the Jewish community. Just the day after our New Year and within the 10 days that we call the Days of Awe, between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, days that call upon our Jewish community to look at the world and our own deeds with a level of humility, with a level of grace, with a level of honesty and recognition, but also wondrous opportunity at the holy work we have to do of doing just a little next year. I hope that many of us are able to take those blessings of newness into this day's work and into all of the work that comes for the rest of this year together. I want to first recognize that every person gathered here today finds centering connection to purpose and meaning in the world differently. So I invite you to take this moment of invocation in whatever way your heart or religious traditions might guide you. As we mark the opening of our Philadelphia City Council's public meeting, we are called upon to offer gratitude for all who have supported us to reach this moment and humbly request blessings to guide the continued work of our City Council. We thank the hundreds of maintenance facilities who keep our majestic and historic City Hall running that we may gather here today. We offer gratitude to the dozens of staff members who keep the offices of each of our City Councilmembers running smoothly and responsively. We offer thanks to the thousands of city workers whose diligent service keeps our city safe, our streets clean and provides the myriad services needed for our city to thrive. And we offer gratitude for all of the citizens and residents of Philadelphia who have elected our Mayor and Councilmembers and entrusted them to lead with wisdom and humility. May their faces, names and stories ever be at the forefront of the here today. This morning as our Council opens the weekly meeting, we ask the source of blessing to bless our Council and the work of our city's government. May bold vision, wise Council and generosity of spirit guide your decisionmaking. May you be blessed with the patience, discernment and humility to bring this city into an era of continued health, safety, dignity and prosperity for all who live within its borders. May you find inspiration from the fields that animate so much of our city's life and economy. May you be blessed with the innovative energy of the sciences, the entrepreneurial spirit of industry, the curiosity of education and the creativity of the arts. May the lives and you will honor at today's meeting, confer honor and blessing onto the work of this Council. May you merit to lead with listening hearts, hearts that work to discern good from evil, hearts open to new ideas and perspectives, hearts willing to hear the hard things, hearts that seek to hear all Philadelphians and not just those with the loudest voices. May you be blessed with the courage to stand up for our city when others seek to tear it down. May you have the strength to tackle the hardest challenges and the wisdom to know when apology, compromise and course change are the best course of action. In the Jewish community from which I hail, we begin all of work of governance with a blessing.

Barukh atah adonai eloheinu melekh ha'olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav v'tzivanu la'asok b'tzorkhei tzibur: How full of blessing you are eternal one, life breath of all the universe who is set upon us the sacred task of attending to the needs of our community. We say Amen. )

The Chair thanks the Rabbi 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, September 18, 2025. The Chair recognizes Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 18, 2025 be approved.

Is there a second? (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday September 18, 2025 stand approved. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. business is request for leave of absence. And the Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilmember Gilmore Richardson, Councilman Thomas and Councilman O'Rourke.

The Chair thanks the Councilmember and leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Brooks.

Thank you, Council President. On behalf of the Minority, there is one request for leave of absence today on behalf of Minority Whip Nicolas O'Rourke.

Thank you very much. The Chair thanks the Councilmember and leave will be granted. The Chair now recognizes Deputy Whip Cindy Bass for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session of Council and that were not listed on the Calendar circulated prior to today's Council session.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that any of the following matters, if considered today, may be added to the agenda for this session of Council, and as required by law, subsequently published on an amended agenda after the consideration of those matters: resolutions authorizing hearings, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration of a bill vetoed by or re-called from the Mayor, amendments to bills recalled from the Mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in this session, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar and a motion placing a bill or resolution on or returning a bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to be included on the Calendar that was published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Councilmember Deputy Whip Cindy Bass may be added to the agenda for today should those matters arise during the course of this session of Council. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in chambers this morning. On behalf of all members Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our great city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Dr. Anthony Phillips, who will present a resolution on my behalf congratulating the School District of Philadelphia, the developer of the Bellwether District, HRP Group, Arco Designs Build, Clayco Corporation and the General Building Contracts Association for their collaboration to fund driver's education courses for the School District career and technical students. Will Dr. Tony Watlington and Mia Fioravanti and those accompanying them please join the (Applause.)

So joining Dr. Phillips is Councilmember Rue Landau, Councilmember Cindy Bass, Councilmember Jones, Councilmember Lozada, Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Harrity. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)

Well, good morning everyone. On behalf of Council President Johnson -

And Councilmember Driscoll.

Councilman Driscoll. Good morning, everyone. On behalf of Council President Kenyatta Johnson, we are glad to support the work of the and their career and technical educational students and the work that they do to prepare students for careers in those fields. As we know in the city of Philadelphia, there's a need for a balance between college and vocation and the School District of Philadelphia is now preparing our students for both life opportunities. So I want to thank Council President Johnson for bringing our Superintendent Dr. Watlington and his team and some of the students from the School District of Philadelphia to present and highlight to them how important this is to the City of Philadelphia. So to start off, our Council colleagues, I'll start off and then our Council colleagues is resolution. All right. We would like -- I just received a note that I think that's really important for us to share. We would like to thank the City Council for this resolution. Here are some of the numbers that they achieved to date: 75 students completed the School District's Driver's Education program. 50 students are taking the written test to attain their driver's permit and some students that have received their permits are now learning to drive. Now, what we're doing today is highlighting what the school district is doing to promote driver's ed, which is to help provide young people with the necessary preparation to attain their driver's license. And we do know how important this is as a of Philadelphia, because a lot of our neighbors have been complaining about how people are driving. And so, if they learn early how to properly drive by great instructors, we may be able to ensure the safety of our residents and also safety of the drivers themselves. So thank you so much for sharing that. All right. To begin, Congratulating the School District of Philadelphia, the developer of Bellwether District HRP group, Arco Design Build, Clayco Corporation and the General Building Contractors Association, GBCA, for their collaboration to fund driver education courses for the School District Career and Technical Education students. Whereas, the School Career and Technical Education, CTE, to prepare students for careers in fields that include construction, manufacturing and design; and

Whereas, CTE programs help bridge the transition between school and employment by providing hands-on training, developing soft skills and allowing students to earn industry credits, certifications and college credits so they can continue towards a certification or college degree; and Whereas, CTE programs are vital to providing young people with essential work experience and a path to a family-sustaining career; and

Whereas, the School District of to expand their offerings to include driver's education for students participating in Building and Construction Trade CTE programs; and

Whereas, CTE construction trade students need driver's licenses to qualify for opportunities such as equipment operator, field technician and apprenticeships in the building trades; and

Whereas, a driver's license is essential for students to enter transportation-based careers that offer a living wage; and

Whereas, the School District of Philadelphia, the HRP Group and its partners have collaborated to and funding for junior driver's license permits, thereby reducing barriers for over 200 graduating students entering careers in construction, manufacturing or design; and Whereas, funding will ensure that CTE programs align with workforce entry requirements. Now, therefore, be it

Resolve, the Council of the City of Philadelphia, Hereby congratulates the School District of Philadelphia and HRP Group and its partners on their collaboration to provide driver education courses and junior driver permits to CTE students; and

What she said. (Laughter.)

resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution is presented to the School District of Philadelphia Career and Technical Education Program, HRP Group, Arco Design Build, Clayco and the General Building Contractors Association as evidence of the sincere appreciation and gratitude of this legislative body. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Dr. Tony Watlington and Mia Fioravanti. But before I let Dr. Watlington begin his remarks, I do want to acknowledge my Chief of Staff John Christmas who saw that there's a barrier when it comes to young people when they apply for apprenticeships with the trades. And one of the barriers were do a license, right. A clean urine, that's number one, y'all. So if you're smoking that oowe, a clean urine and also a license. And so, he said let's put together a program that will break down the obstacles and barriers for our young people. And so, I just want to acknowledge John Christmas for taking the lead and coming up with this idea. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes School District of Philadelphia Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington.

Thank you. Good morning, President Johnson, Councilman Dr. Phillips and all members of Council. Thank you for your resolution and the opportunity to speak to you this morning by one of our star students, Joseph, a student at Lincoln High School. I'll ask him to come a little closer. Give him a round of applause. (Applause.)

As well as Dr. Jermaine Dawson, Deputy Superintendent of Academics, if you'll come a little closer. (Applause.)

Assistant Superintendent Tim McKenna, ask him to come a little bit closer. (Applause.)

And certainly, our wonderful Executive Director of Career and Technical Education Michelle Armstrong, if you'll come a little bit closer. A big round of applause. Thank you. (Applause.)

We're here to share with you this morning that career and technical education is alive and well in the School District of Philadelphia. We're excited because for three straight years our career and technical education students have earned more than 3000 industry certifications making them college and career ready, and it's a clear testament to the hard work of the Career and Technical Education teachers and the quality instruction that they are providing every day. Now, it's time for us to go the extra mile and ensure that our students are truly ready to step into the workforce in our five-year aggressive strategic plan, Mr. President, entitled Accelerate Philly. We committed to improve access to underserved and underrepresented students so that they can have all of the training and the development necessary to go out into the workforce in our great city and be prepared for college and careers. And the Driver's Education pilot program is a clear, clarion example of how we're centering equity, which is one of our core values in the strategic plan in the school district, we're providing work-based learning opportunities within the city and making it easy for students to get to jobs of their choice, whether it's in their neighborhood or somewhere else in the city. So this program provides highly-qualified certified students the opportunity to have access, are qualified to drive themselves to and from work and to operate machinery, which is a requirement for a number of jobs in the city of Philadelphia. As Councilman Dr. Phillips mentioned, 75 students in the construction and auto programs have completed their driver's education program and 50 students are in the hopper getting their driver's permit. We have others who have received their permit already and our partners at Education for Educators have assigned them to a driving school and we're really excited about that. I'm glad they're doing a driving school because when I first went to get my driver's license, Mr. President, I'm not ashamed of the fact I didn't study and I first time. So we're going to make sure -- and you had to wait two days before you took it -

I think we all did. (Laughter.)

-again.

It's okay.

Don't hold it against me, sir. Mr. President, we also want to say a special thank you to you as Council President, Councilmembers, the Bellwether District, HRP Group, Arco Design Build, Clayco Corporation, Everybody Builds, the General Builders Contractors Association and again, all of the members of City Council and to you, Mr. President. that when our young people leave the School District of Philadelphia, that they will be college and career ready so that they can be prepared to imagine and realize any future that they desire. Thank you for this opportunity to speak before you this morning. And again, thank you for your support of the School District of Philadelphia and very fine students like Joseph here. Good morning and thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you. Mia Fioravanti, HRP Hilco Group.

Thank you, Dr. Watlington. And thank you, Council President Johnson. At the Bellwether District, we are building a logistics life, science will create an estimated 28,000 construction jobs and tens of thousands of permanent jobs over the next decade. This important program is ensuring Philadelphia District students have the skills needed to access these family-sustaining jobs and achieve lifelong success. On behalf of the Bellwether District, I want to thank Council President Johnson and his office for their leadership, Dr. Watlington and our partners at the school district for their unwavering support of our young people. Thank you also to GBCA, Everybody builds, Clayco and Arco Design Build for your support of this important initiative. Thank you. (Applause.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

At this time, the Chair recognizes Deputy Whip Councilman Cindy Bass, who will present a resolution honoring and commending Philadelphia Anti-Drug AntiViolence Network, known as PAAN, for its proactive efforts to ensure the safety of youth and families in the 8th Councilmanic District, recreation centers and celebrating their success in maintaining violence-free zones through the implementation of the Play It Safe in the 8th Initiative. Will George D. Mosley, Jr., and those accompanying him, please join the Councilmember at the podium. Joining Councilmember Bass are the following members, Councilmember Kendra Brooks, Phillips, Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young, Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, Councilmember Harrity. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)

Good morning, everyone. So I just wanted to take a moment to recognize PAAN. You know, we all call them PAAN, but it's the Philadelphia Anti-Drug AntiViolence Network for the outstanding work that they do. And this summer, we unveiled a new program called Playing It Safe in the 8th, which was really aimed to eliminate violence in our recreation centers. And so, we were in four recreation centers in the 8th Council District and I'm happy to report that we while they were there. So I think that that deserves a round of applause for the work that they did. (Applause.)

This was really about making sure that people understood that, you know, first of all violence is never accepted, but conflict is going to happen. People are going to have disagreements. People are going to have not necessarily a meeting of the mind, but how we handle that conflict resolution is just so very important. And so, again we just wanted to bring them forward and tell them how much we appreciated the work that they did over the summer months and I'm hopeful, Mr. President, that we'll have funding to be able to expand this of Philadelphia because they did just such a phenomenal job. So thank you so much to everyone who is here from PAAN. And we have a resolution honoring and recognizing them. And so, we'd like to present that this morning. And so, it reads: Honoring and commending Philadelphia Anti-Drug AntiViolence Network, PAAN, for its proactive efforts to ensure the safety of youth and families in the 8th Councilmanic District's recreation centers and celebrating their success in maintaining violence-free zones throughout the implementation of the Playing It Safe in the 8th Initiative. Whereas, playgrounds and recreation centers across Philadelphia have long served as spaces, fostering connection, physical activity and joy for children and families; and

Whereas, despite an encouraging citywide decrease in homicides and shootings in 2025, incidents of gun violence at playgrounds have increased underscoring the urgent need for localized public safety interventions, particularly for Philadelphia's youth; and

Whereas, in the spring of 2025 alone, Philadelphia experienced several cases of violence involving teenagers at playgrounds and recreation centers, leaving communities traumatized and demanding change; and

Whereas, in response to these challenges Playing It Safe in the 8th was developed, a bold and proactive violence prevention strategy aimed at transforming recreation centers in the 8th District into safe, supportive and resilient community spaces; and

Playing Safe in the 8th established community partnership hubs at four pilot sites: Jerome Brown, Happy Hollow -- shout-out to my cousin Puella(ph) -- Lonnie Young and Bellfield Recreation Centers, bringing together trained violence intervention specialists from the Philadelphia Anti-Drug Anti-Violent Network also known as PAAN; and

Whereas, the initiative is rooted in community care, in public trust relying not on enforcement or criminalization, but on de-escalation, realtime engagement support youth and prevent violence before it occurs; Whereas, since the implementation of Playing It Safe in the 8th, there has been no reported incidents of violence at any other participating recreation centers, demonstrating the program's effectiveness and creating true safe havens for families; and

Whereas, Playing it Safe in the 8th reflects the power of collaboration among city agencies, community organizations and law enforcement and serves as a promising model for public safety efforts across the City of Philadelphia; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Council of the City Philadelphia, hereby honors and commends the Playing It Safe in the 8th Initiative for its visionary leadership, community-centered approach and measurable success in keeping Philadelphia's recreation centers safe, welcoming and free of violence. And just a few highlights, Mr. President. Before we bring up our speaker, I wanted to mention also again Lonnie Young Recreation Center, which is in Germantown, Jerome Brown, which is in Tioga; Belfield, which is in Somerville; and Happy Hollow which is also in Germantown, there were no reports of gun violence since the program began its launch and is supported by a team of credible messengers. It not only addresses gun violence, but also provides home, helping them find meaningful and purposeful employment. They also provide mentorship and active guidance and mentoring for young people in the community, fostering a safer and more constructive environment. And for all of these reasons and so many more, let's give PAAN a big round of applause. Thank you. (Applause.)

Mr. George D. Mosley, the floor is yours, sir.

Good morning, everyone, Council President Johnson, members of Council, all the guests and friends who are present on behalf of the Philadelphia Anti-Drug AntiViolence Network, thank you for honoring the men and women of our We're honored to be a part of the wonderful Playing It Safe in the 8th Initiative. Give that initiative a hand. (Applause.)

If I may, let me just say a word or two about the men and women who are standing behind me. You've heard that they're referenced as credible messengers, and that credibility refers to the fact that they've lived lives that are consistent with the lives of the people that we're trying to reach. That credibility is very, very important. But without two additional ingredients, they wouldn't be effective. The first is that they're courageous. And some of you may assume that I'm talking about the courage that it some of the toughest neighborhoods in Philadelphia, but I'm not talking about that. I'm talking about the courage to speak to people that nobody else wants to talk to. They open doors to relationships that have been lost. People are isolated, insulated in places that are in plain view because nobody will talk to them. That's not the people standing behind me. They have the courage to do just that. The second thing is that they need to care. I can't tell you how many times my staff people have come to me and said, I wish somebody had stepped to me, had spoken to me like I'm able to speak to people now, it would have changed my life. And while I'm talking caring, let me just say that the 8th Councilmanic District is blessed to have Cindy Bass. (Applause.)

Put that in a commercial.

She had the courage, the foresight to develop this initiative which employs everything that I just talked about, the credibility, the desire to reach people who otherwise wouldn't be reached. And because she had that courage, because she cares so much, I am confident that we'll be able to play it safe in the 8th District from this point forward. Thank you very much. (Applause.)

Before Council is at ease, I just want to also just also beyond the 8th they, do come down to the 2nd. Every time there's a homicide, there's a shooting, we call PAAN to engage in Peace Not Guns walk. We're engaging community members and providing a sense of hope to the neighbors in the neighborhood when someone is murdered. And so, I do just want to applaud your efforts and keep up the good work. Let's give another round of applause y'all. (Applause.)

This is what you call investment in boots on the ground. So good job. Play It Safe in the 8th. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

At this time, the Chair Labor Committee Councilman Harrity, who will present a resolution recognizing September as National Recovery Month and honoring the strength of those impacted by addiction. Will Commissioner Kehinde Solanke and those accompanying her, please join the Councilmember at the podium. Joining Member Harrity is Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada, Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young, Chair of our Health Committee Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad, Councilmember Rue Landau, Minority Leader Kendra Brooks and Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)

The floor is yours,

Thank you, Council President. Hello everybody. I am Councilman Harrity and I am clean, serene and living the dream. (Applause.)

How about that. You heard me speak about it before. I believe that in this day and age those of us in the program have to stop hiding behind our anonymity to show people that there is life after addiction. Me, myself and I am living proof of that. So with that, I'd like to thank our Commissioner of DBHIDS. When you're a Councilman, sometimes when you're having hearings you criticize people and you ask hard questions. But one thing I can say about our heart and she believes in what she's doing. And for me, that means a lot. A resolution recognizing September as National Recovery Month and honoring the strength of those impacted by addiction.

Whereas, National Recovery Month is observed every September to increase awareness and understanding of mental health and substance use disorders and. Substance abuse and mental health services administration states that National Recovery Month began in 1989 to help recognize and support new recovery practices with studies to help make recovery safe and available to all; and

Whereas, according to data collected by the Centers for in 2024, there were an estimated 80,391 deaths due to drug overdoses with 1052 unintentional overdoses occurring in Philadelphia; and

Whereas, addiction has touched the lives of countless families in Philadelphia and across the nation in more ways than one. The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that between 2011 and 2021, 321,566 children in the United States lost a parent to drug overdose. And according to the National Center for Fatality Review and Prevention, from 2018 to 2022, 985 deaths in children ages 1 to 17 years old due to opioid ingestion; and

Whereas, the City of Philadelphia remains committed to supporting prevention, treatment, recovery programs and community resources that save lives and offer hope. According to Pennsylvania state rehabs, in the city of Philadelphia alone there are around 80 recovery centers and programs, each offering a variety of treatment options, including inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization programs, detox, aftercare and more; and

Whereas, neighborhoods with our most vulnerable populations like Kensington, North Philadelphia, Glenwood, Fairhill and others have been hit hardest by the opioid epidemic, marking a drastic increase in overdoses over the past decade compared to other major metropolitan cities; and

Whereas, National Recovery Month is the conversation around addiction, reaffirm our support for Philadelphians currently struggling and shed new light on legislation and policy that can prove these conditions; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, recognizes the month of September as National Recovery Month in Philadelphia and acknowledges the ongoing struggle of addiction in our city.

Further resolved that an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to recovery providers at a future session of Council as a symbol of the profound respect and admiration felt by this legislative body and the citizens of Philadelphia. (Applause.)

Just like to say one more thing, Councilman Squilla and Councilman Jones are sitting in the audience, but this bill -- resolution was unanimous. Everybody signed on. They volunteered out of the speech so we could cut it down a little bit for time. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you, Member Harrity. The Chair recognizes Commissioner Solanke for remarks. (Applause.) COMMISSIONER SOLANKE: Good morning. Thank you, President Johnson and Councilmembers. Thank you so much for having me. And it is an honor to be here this morning. But first I want to say is possible. Recovery happens every day in Philadelphia even if sometimes it doesn't look like it. And that's why it's an honor to be here today this morning as we officially recognize September as National Recovery Month in the City of Philadelphia, and to amplify the strength, resilience and dignity of every person and every family impacted by addiction. I want to thank members of Council, especially the sponsors of this resolution and, Councilmember Harrity, thank you for not only acknowledging the crisis we continue to face, but for lifting up recovery as a priority, a possibility and a promise for our communities. This resolution makes it clear that addiction is not a failure, it is a public health issue. Recovery is not only real, it is happening and it's happening right here in communities like Kensington, Fairhill, Glenwood and beyond. We can see the pain of addiction, but we also see the courage, we see the hope and see the tireless work being done by our city leaders, our community organizations, our providers, peer specialists, families, and the hard work of those individuals who are walking the path of recovery, often against very incredible odds. At DBHIDS, we believe that recovery is for everyone and we are committed to ensuring everyone has access to the resources, care, support they need to recover and to thrive no matter who they are or where they live. Philadelphia continues to invest in prevention, treatment, housing and employment support. And so, as we officially mark September as National Recovery Month in Philadelphia, we're renewing our commitment at DBHIDS to reduce stigma, expand access and honor the stories of those who have fought and continue to fight for recovery. To everyone impacted, we see you, we believe in you and we walk with you. I also want to remind everyone that on Saturday, September 27th there is a Wellness Expo celebrating recovery. And thank you again, Councilman Harrity -- I don't see you, there you are -- for hosting this event on Saturday. Thank you and thank you for having me. (Applause.)

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

The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeantat-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Will the Chief Clerk please read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications in our possession.

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I'm submitting herewith for the consideration of your Honorable body an ordinance amending Chapter 10-700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Refuse and Littering" to require locking dumpsters; all under certain terms and conditions. An ordinance authorizing the City of Philadelphia to construct, own and maintain rightof-way encroachments in various parts of the City, under certain terms and conditions. An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning" by clarifying certain provisions related to mixed-income housing, revising the quality standards for affordable units within mixedincome developments and making related technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to acquire fee simple title or a estate by purchase, dedication, donation, condemnation, agreement in lieu of condemnation or otherwise and certain parcels of land along the Schuylkill River and the Wissahickon Creek, together with all improvements thereon and all associated easements and appurtenances for public recreational purposes, all under certain terms and conditions; and A resolution appointing Mark Graefe to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District. And that 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. 241064 approval with amendments. Bill No. 250606 not for approval. Bill Nos. 250710, 250716, 250724 and 250725 approved. And then I am pleased to advise you that on September 24 2025 I signed the following bill, which was passed by Council at its session on September 11, 2025: Bill No. 250333. Council President, there are no further communications in my possession.

Thank you very much. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips.

Good morning, Council President. Good morning, residents of Philadelphia. I have one bill for introduction today.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill.

An ordinance amending Title 14-602, entitled "Use Tables" by prohibiting drug paraphernalia sales in certain industrial districts, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Curtis Jones, Jr.

Thank you, Mr. President, colleagues and the listening audience today. Today I have three bills. One introduced on your behalf and two privileged resolutions.

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

An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to acquire fee simple title or a lesser interest in real estate by purchase, dedication, donation, condemnation, agreement in lieu of condemnation or otherwise in certain parcels of land along the Schuylkill River and the Wissahickon Creek, together with all improvements thereon and associated easements and appurtenances for public recreational purposes, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning" by revising and clarifying certain provisions and making technical changes to text that has expired, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And an ordinance amending Section 14-524 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "/FDO Fourth District Overlay District," by clarifying allowed uses, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution renaming the 6300 block of Lansdowne Avenue as "Jayanna Powell Way" in tribute to the life and legacy of Jayanna Powell, whose memory continues to inspire efforts for safer streets and protections for children throughout Philadelphia and across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar -- this resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for the consideration at the next session of Council.

And a privileged resolution recognizing and supporting Philadelphia MED Week, October 6th through October 10, 2025, during which the City will provide critical information resources, opportunities and inspiration to the business community.

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

Thank you, Council President. Good morning, colleagues and the public. Today I have three privileged resolutions and one bill on behalf of Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.

Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bills and resolution.

An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning" by amending certain provisions of Chapter 14-500, entitled "Overlay Zoning Districts," by creating the "/UCO, University-Community Overlay District"; and by making related changes, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a privileged resolution recognizing congratulating and celebrating Valley Youth House on the distinguished occasion of its 20th Anniversary in Philadelphia, passionately serving young individuals to help them achieve their full potential by providing essential services like counseling, housing support, community connections and life-training skills.

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

And a privileged resolution recognizing October 2025 as Cyber Security Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia and acknowledging the importance of empowering individuals and organizations to prevent and recognize online threats, providing resources to protect sensitive data and fostering a culture of digital safety by educating the public on best practices.

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

And a privileged resolution recognizing October 6 through October 10, 2025, as Digital Inclusion Week in the City of Philadelphia.

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

Good morning, Council President. Today I offer one bill.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill.

An ordinance amending Chapter 9-600 of The Philadelphia Code (entitled "Services and Other Businesses") to add a new exemption from certain business hour restrictions for pharmacies, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jeffrey Jay Young from North Philly.

Thank you. Good morning, Council President. Today I offer one bill, one non-privileged resolution and one privileged resolution.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill and resolutions.

An ordinance authorizing encroachments in the nature of a sidewalk cafe in the vicinity of 1811 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19130, under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2806, 2903, 2907, 2913, 2917, 2919, 2925, 2937 and 2939 Cecil B. Moore Avenue, located in the 5th Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Minority Leader Kendra Brooks.

One more for Young.

Go ahead, Chief Clerk.

And a non-privileged resolution also naming the 1200 block of Crease Street as "'Bonn' Bataan Way".

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Minority Leader Kendra Brooks.

I'm sorry. I have one resolution, one privileged resolution to introduce today.

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

A privileged resolution recognizes September as National Senior Center Month in the City of Philadelphia, honoring the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) and the City's senior centers for their exceptional service and support to older adults and uplifting this year's National Council on Aging theme, "Powering Possibilities: Flip the Script."

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jim Harrity.

Good morning, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today, sir.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mike Driscoll.

Mr. President, I offer no bills or resolutions today.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Mark Squilla.

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer three bills and three resolutions, one privileged, one non-privileged and one on your behalf.

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

An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire, on behalf of the City, fee simple title or lesser interest by purchase, dedication, donation, condemnation agreement in lieu of condemnation or otherwise for the purpose of making, enlarging, connecting, extending, operating and maintaining public parks for recreational use certain parcels of land generally bounded and located between Vine Street, Fairmount Avenue, 8th Street and 12th Street, together with all improvements thereon and all associated easements and appurtenances and to lease the property or a portion thereof to the Center City District, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning" by revising and clarifying certain provisions and making technical changes to the text that has expired, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And an ordinance authorizing various encroachments in the vicinity of 113-17 Washington Avenue, Philadelphia, Pa, 19147, under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing the life and legacy of Philadelphia Flyers goaltender and Hockey Hall of Famer Bernie Parent, on the occasion of his passing, for his outstanding contributions to the sport of hockey and the Philadelphia community.

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

And a privileged resolution designating the week of Sunday, October 12 through Saturday, October 18, 2025, as "Italian American Heritage Week" in the City of Philadelphia. This is done in celebration of the countless contributions Italian Americans have given to our country and honoring Bob Pantano as Grand Marshall of the 2025 Philadelphia Italian American Heritage Parade.

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

And a non-privileged resolution also appointing Mark Graefe to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District.

This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Deputy Whip Cindy Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer two privileged resolutions, one on your behalf, and two bills, one on your behalf.

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

An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning" by clarifying certain provisions related to mixed-income housing, revising the quality standards for affordable units within mixed-income developments and making related technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Ardley Street, East Sedgwick Street, the SEPTA Chestnut East line and East Gorgas Lane.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution renaming the 1600 block of Ellsworth Street "Margaret E. Wallace Way" to honor Margaret "Mom" Wallace for her lifelong dedication and service to the South Philadelphia community.

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

And a privileged resolution recognizing and honoring the life and legacy of Alice W. Ballard, a champion of justice and advocacy.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.

Thank you, Council President. I have two privileged resolutions.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk read the titles of the privileged resolutions.

A privileged resolution recognizing September as Cerebral Visual Impairment Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia, celebrating the launch of the Rosenblatt family CVI Center at Overbrook School for the Blind and commending its mission to improve care, education and research for children with CVI.

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

And a privileged resolution recognizing October as Vision Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia, and 2ND READING honoring Overbrook School for the Blind's leadership in advancing education technology and access for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Being there are no reports from committees today, the next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. The Chair recognizes Deputy Whip Councilmember Cindy Bass for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars.

Thank you, Mr. President. The following bills and resolutions are being called up from the Second Reading and final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 250731, 250733, 250751, 250775, 250776, 250777, 250779, 250780, 250785, 250788, 250791 and 250373-A. And the following bills and resolutions on the Calendar are being held: 250303. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. Before considering these bills and resolutions, we will consider public comment as follows: Your public comment must consider matters on the Second Reading or Final Passage Calendars for possible action at today's Council session. All speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already signed up for today's session, please do so now by giving your name to Ms. Hasson at the table outside the rails to my left. Once you have signed up, you will be called in the order in which your name appears on the sign-up sheet. Under ideal circumstances, public commenters each will have three minutes to speak. However, this time limit may vary from session to session. Today the time limit will be two minutes. In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the two-minute limit. When you begin speaking, you will see a green light on the podium. When there are 30 seconds remaining to your time, the light will turn yellow which is your reminder to conclude your remarks. Once two minutes have passed, the light will turn red and the Sergeant-at-Arms will disconnect the microphone. At that point, please yield the podium to the speaker if you have not already done so. I also reserve the right pursuant to our rules of Council to limit repetitive comments on the same subject matter. I will now ask the Chief Clerk to please call our first speakers.

May Stacie Leap make her way to the podium along with Kate Perez, Tim Brown, Shawn Moss, Jeremy Blatstein and Colette White. Stacie Leap, Kate Perez, Tim Brown, Shawn Moss, Jeremy Blatstein and Colette White. May we also have Kenya Moussa, Valentino Rosario and Faye Anderson also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

I'm Kate Perez. And as we condemn Trump sending out the National Guard, let's remember our own Mayor considered calling in the National Guard to help sweep Kensington. If we want to prevent fascism, we have to stop partnering with ICE that's been targeting activists known for their speech, rounding people up in groups and raiding businesses in South Philly, making people scared to work or shop. Knowing that ICE can hold and even deport citizens at random, we have to stop letting them use our jails like detention centers. Trump declared a national emergency as justification for his domestic occupation right now wasting our tax dollars, having them pick up trash, but they're ready to strike at any time. These are tactics that they trade with the occupier Israel and our city has been giving our names to promote travel to an apartheid. It's not a Muslim versus Jewish issue. The Occupation is happy to demolish any church or any atheist in the strip because it's a military occupation with the goal of colonization by dual state settlers approved by the British and possible with our tax dollars. Last week I didn't know if my friend made it out of the North alive. The Occupation dropped leaflets all over Gaza city, a city larger than Philadelphia, and told them to all get out or be presumed dead in a modern day trail of tears, shutting down the entire country's internet and targeting journalists to prevent the news from spreading. Siraj Oda is now missing after being chased by quadcopters on his Instagram story. They haven't stopped bombing for even a second and 10% of people weren't allowed to escape. The IOF keep releasing their own footage of drone striking civilians attempting to leave. We witnessed the targeting of medical centers like the Al-Quds Hospital this Tuesday. Red Crescent Society sharing that occupation, tanks are blocking the hospital's gates. These are the ones that PPD has a history of training with they shot and disabled the oxygen tanks, forcing patients to rely on pre-filled cylinders only expected to last three days. That's today. Our sister city is surrounding a hospital, and they're about to run out of oxygen if they haven't already. Free Palestine. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you for the opportunity to speak today. My name is Tim Brown. I'm the Organizing Director for Philly Neighborhood Networks. I'm a member of the coalition to defend democracy. I'm here to speak in favor of the resolution introduced by Councilmember Brooks condemning the federal invasion of American cities. I believe that we are entering the most dangerous time in our nation's history since the Civil War. During that war, we had a president who actually believed in democracy. Today we do not. And so, our nation finds itself at an inflection point. The National Republican Party has surrendered to Maga extremists. The Democrats are waving paddles and writing sternly worded letters. Meanwhile, this regime is steamrolling the Constitution and everything in its path. And last month, under false pretenses this president ordered federal troops into the streets of Los Angeles and Washington D.C. in a show of force. Make no mistake, this was a practice run for the rest of the nation, and this would-be dictator is looking for any excuse to declare martial law so he can send troops and loyalists into Philadelphia streets in time for the midterm elections. Now, here's a truth that nobody wants to hear but needs to be said out loud. Nobody is coming to save us. In a nation where we've become used to having a national government that kind of worked, all the usual safeguards have fallen away. There will be no cavalry riding to our rescue. The cavalry now works for the tyrant, so it is left to us to save ourselves and this is a sobering and scary thought. But if we're going to survive this terrible moment, we must find our courage and that courage starts with the passage of the Brooks resolution to condemn the federal invasion of American cities. Let this resolution stand as a clear declaration of the intent of our elected officials that Philadelphia, the birthplace of democracy, stands up to bullies and tyrants. Thank you for your time.

Hello. Good morning, City Council. My name is Shawn Moss. I live in South Philadelphia in the Point Breeze section. I volunteer at a Community Food Bank and I'm also a community organizer. I urge you to support Councilmember Brooks' resolution in condemning the Trump regime's deployment of National Guard within our city. Trump make no mistake is attempting to bully us, okay, bully and police our communities based on nothing, nothing. Okay. This is an attack on Black and Brown people and we've gone through enough, and we just want to live not be harassed and shaken down on the whims of a tyrant. Don't forget where we are. This is the City of Philadelphia, the birthplace of freedom. We do not obey fascists in advance. We do not give fascists an inch because they will take a mile. And we do not bow down to fascists, period. Now more than ever, you've got to stand up. We've got to be united and we've got to be strong. Do not flinch in the face of a fascist. They are nothing more than bullies and they'll back down with one swift punch. I assure you. Once again, I urge you, all of you on the City Council, to support Councilmember Brooks' resolution and condemning the deployment of National Guard within our City. Thank you very much. (Applause.)

Hello. My name is Jeremy Blatstein. I'm here in support of Resolution 250751, removing land from the Land Bank. Land is frozen in the Land Bank right now. I urge each and every one of you to attend the next Land Bank meeting on October. It's the first Tuesday of October, to see the dysfunction that's happening of your Land Bank. If we're going to be serious about spending the $400 million or the $800 million and actually have a dent, the Land Bank's a big piece of that. You guys are spending money for Turn the Key. But if you allow members that are honestly elected by you guys to interfere with that, then there's no point of spending any money with the Turn the Key program. So you each want to go to your ribbon cuttings and say, hey, look at me, look at all these new Turn the Key homes, but you actually don't want to do the work to move the land out of the Land Bank. And realistically, all the roadblocks that you're putting up is actually hurting the minority developers that you, each and every one of you, say you want to help and support. So there's a reason why nobody wants to interact with the Land Bank right now is because there's too much red tape. So I just would encourage each and every one of you to really take a deep look at the Land Bank of how it's set up. If we're really going to get serious about moving land. And the last thing I was going to say is we're not talking about SEPTA anymore since I think that it's a little bit offensive I guess to some of you. I apologize if you don't like my challenge, but I'm going to say one last time we're talking about -- that's the last time I'll be saying it. I really just want to say to you each and every one of you that the point of my challenge, right, was so you could see firsthand today what your constituents deal with, not yesterday, not last year, not when you guys were growing up. I'm talking about today because there's issues with the quality of life with SEPTA today that I believe need to be addressed. Again, what we're talking about is 2026 and just improving the system. So that was the only point of my SEPTA challenge. I apologize if it came across differently. Thank you, Councilman Jones. You're an OG. You rode the bus with me. I think you were a little offended that nobody recognized you, except for your fly shoes. But again, thank you. Ride the ride and grow Philly to 2 milli.

We have Colette White, Kenya Moussa, Valentino Rosario, Faye Anderson. And may Queen Judith Robinson, Laura Weinbaum, Reverend Gregory Holston, Kate Rivera and Paulette Cunningham also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good morning, Councilmembers. My name is Colette White. I'm for Positive Women's Network. I lived all my life in the city of Philadelphia. I was born and raised here. I was born at BGH. I'm one of those folks. Okay. I am here because I love this city and I know that real safety comes from within our communities, not from soldiers on the streets in my city. This is my city, our community. Communities, our neighbors have worked hard to lower violence, reduce incarceration in our neighborhoods and in this city and created real opportunities for our young people because that's where it begins now. And that's what was going to harm we see our progress because we are invested in ourselves. We are invested in our communities. I lived in every community in the city of Philadelphia. I just don't come from one community or one neighborhood. I lived all around in the city of Philadelphia. Sending the National Guards here, lack of a better word, bull. The troops have no knowledge. They are not our city police. They are not our neighbors. I don't look at the one that lives next door to me that is supposed to be the noosy person. That noosy person helps me, protects me, but for someone to send a National Guard in my neighborhood and our neighborhoods to tell you what you can't do on your own front porch, because that's what they're doing. Okay. I don't want any war zones, attacks on Blacks and Browns. I am asking you to pass the resolution because the city deserves self-government, to protect our people. Reject, lack of a better word again, that man to send the National Guards down here. Let them do their real job. Thank you for listening. (Applause.)

Good morning. My name is Kenya Moussa. I'm Co-chair of Positive Womens Network. We're an organization that is people living with HIV and AIDS. I rise in strong support of Councilmember Brooks' resolution condemning the Trump administration's appointment of the National Guards to American cities. Let's be clear, there is no legitimate emergency in Philadelphia that warrants a military occupation. Crime in our cities has declined significantly. Our residents are safer today than we've been in years and we know why. We've been investing in restorative justice and prevention and community-based status that works, not bringing an armed troop with no ties to our neighborhoods. The unilateral use of National Guards is not only unnecessary, it's undemocratic. It undermines local control. It erodes with several liberties. It sets a dangerous precedent that the federal government can oppose military forces on cities against the will of our elected leaders. That is not safety. That is not democracy. Philadelphia doesn't need National Guards. We need housing, schools, jobs and health care. Every dollar wasted on deploying out-of-state troops is a dollar stolen from real estate. Safety solution that our communities have been building on. Philadelphia has always stood at the forefront of freedom and selfdetermination. Today we do so again and I urge my colleagues to pass the resolution and send a clear message to our communities. We need investment, not occupation, occupation and National Guards. Thank you. (Applause.)

Hi. My name is Valentina Rosario. I'm with Positive Women's Network. Good morning to you all. I'm here to speak in fair support of Kendra Brooks' resolution against the current President's power grab and sending troops into our cities. Let's be clear, sending troops into our cities is not going to keep us safe. It is here to intimidate us, to silent dissent and to strip us of our rights to govern ourselves. Philadelphia doesn't need the National Guard. We need housing. We need better schools. We need jobs. We need access to health care, comprehensive health care. Every dollar wasted on deploying out of state troops is a dollar stolen from the real safety solutions that our communities have been building for years. The truth is when a National Guard has been deployed in our cities, it's been discriminatory, chaotic and harmful. Bringing them here would not make us safer. It would put our residents, especially immigrants, Latina, Black and Brown communities at greater risk. We are not a war zone. We are a city of people who care about one another, who know what safety actually looks like and who refuse to be occupied. I urge this Council to pass the resolution and stand with the people of Philadelphia against this authoritarian overreach. Thank you so much. (Applause.)

We have Faye Anderson, Queen Judith Robinson, Laura Weinbaum, Reverend Gregory Holston, Kate Rivera, Paulette Cunningham. May Esther Lee, Isa Pickett, Renee Cunningham, Ciera Ellison and Lynn Landes make their way to the podium as well. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good morning. Queen Judith Robinson here on the two bills or resolutions regarding land movement in the 5th District to show how ignorance, low vibration, thinking and bullying is happening right here in Philadelphia Democratic style. You have the letter. The gentleman has the letter that was sent to me, a duly elected committee person in the 32nd Ward. It is satanic politics to pit neighbor against neighbor, especially when ignorance is abound. Just like today with the movement of land in this Council today. The community is not here. The police facility being bullied on poor Black people of the community of North Philly. It's a low vibration project bullied through by Council former Council President Darrell Clarke, taking away Philly's first historic district corridor designated by the Philadelphia Historic Commission since 1986. The benefits are replacement housing that a replica of what was there. Obviously, Jeffrey Young pushed this on through, continued it on. Who doesn't believe that historic preservation is important for Black people in a Black community. It's a bad land use. It was no parking study, no traffic study and no environmental study, as we are having a fueling station in the middle of an urban community with no impact on our health. No notification at the RCO meeting that was undercover in October of 2024. It was sneaky. How do you sneak an RCO meeting? But Jeffrey was there. The police captain was there of the 22nd district. It's just so unfortunate that they want to continue to bully with a letter, as they did, which you all will read. Thank you very much for your time. We need to pay attention to land movement and zoning, etc. Thank you all. (Applause.)

Good morning. My name is Laura Weinbaum and I am the Chief Operating Officer at the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging. It is a pleasure and an honor to be here this morning with you all. I want to thank City Council for offering this resolution recognizing September as National Senior Centers Month and shining a light on the extraordinary role that senior centers play in the lives of older adults across Philadelphia. This past month I met a gentleman who comes to the senior center every single morning, and I said, why do you come here? And he said, this place, it keeps me young. For him, fitness classes, friendship keeps him strong and connected and feeling the things that we associate with youth at PCA. We're proud to support a network of 28 senior centers across Philadelphia that serve as anchors of wellness, engagement and community connection. In 2024 more than 11,000 older adults visited these centers for a half a million activities. Behind those numbers are people like my friend, who come for a meal, participate in a fitness class, join an art workshop or spend time with their friends. Senior Centers are welcoming environments that help older adults remain connected, active and independent. I want to especially thank Councilmembers Brooks and (inaudible) for their work, for their continued friendship and leadership. Your advocacy and that of this Council for senior centers ensures that they remain vibrant, resilient and responsive to the diverse needs of older Philadelphians. On behalf of PCA and the many older adults and families who benefit from these centers, thank you for your partnership. It's an honor to be here to celebrate this resolution and the commitment it presents to older adults across Philadelphia. Thank you.

My name is Reverend Gregory Holston. I am a member of the Coalition to Defend Democracy. We're about 20-plus organizations across the city and the state that have been talking about Project 2025 and the Trump administration for over the last 15 months. We've given town halls. We've given lobbying. We've organized. We've organized calls against the big so-called beautiful but really ugly bill. And now, we stand here to stand with Councilmember Brooks on her resolution opposing any National Guard here in Philadelphia. I want you to put all this together. Because we've been thinking about it in this terms, they cut food stamps. 45,000 Philadelphians will not have food stamps. That is happening right now, to cut Medicaid. 100,000 people have lost or will lose Medicaid over the next two to three years. They're talking about taking away Section 8 housing and the certificate will only last two years now, so thousands of people will lose housing. They're talking about the end of Department of Education, those fundings for schools, special needs students will not have. So all of these attacks are gathered together and are coming at a point now. Look at next summer when all those things come together, then you put a National Guard in those same communities. We know truly that when you invest communities, invest in people, it makes the community safer. If you take investment out, it makes it not as safe. It is prone for the very thing that Trump wants to happen, somebody attacking the National Guard. One of our own children who do not have enough to eat or have a place to stay act out on the National Guard, and he uses all of it as a pretext to be able to declare martial law on our city to come after Black leadership, as he does in Chicago and LA and in Washington, D.C. and wants to do the same thing here. We're saying support this resolution. But more than that, we have to begin to work together and build together a way to come back and fight this. This is, as my friend Tim Brown just said a minute ago, ain't nobody coming to save us. This right here, it's on us and I do mean us. It's on us to come up with a real solution to fight what is happening to our city. Thank you so much. Thank you.

Good morning. My name is Kate Rivera and I'm speaking in support of the resolution that was introduced today recognizing Digital Inclusion Week. I'm the Executive Director of the Technology Learning Collaborative or TLC, which is a nonprofit coalition of organizations and individuals working to advance digital equity and inclusion in the Philadelphia area. When we talk about digital equity or inclusion, what we mean really is that everyone should have three things: One, Internet access that is affordable, reliable and fast; two, a computer or other device that meets their needs; and three, the digital skills that they need to use those tools to accomplish their goals and stay safe online. In this day and age, having access to the internet and technology is a necessity rather than a luxury. Digital inclusion means a parent gaining their GED in a living wage job. It means a grandmother connecting with grandchildren, staying safe online and avoiding online scams, high school student getting into their dream college and a patient learning how to self-monitor and manage their blood pressure to improve their health. For over two decades, Philadelphia has led with innovation and collaboration, building a strong ecosystem dedicated to advancing digital inclusion and receiving national recognition for our work. But in order to be successful, we need sustained investment. Earlier this year, the City of Philadelphia was selected for a highly competitive $12 million federal digital equity grant, only to have the grant program canceled by the federal government. Achieving Digital inclusion requires dedicated funding and cross-sector collaboration. We need government, business, nonprofits, universities and philanthropy all working together towards a shared goal. Now is the time to come together and find ways to make Philadelphia a more digitally inclusive community. Thank you for your time and thank you for supporting these important efforts.

Good morning. I am Esther Lee, Assistant Director of Community Engagement at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging. In my role I have a great privilege to work with our senior centers, who are the cornerstones of light a community life of our older adults, senior centers. They're providing more than services and programs at the center. They are safe places and they are a welcoming place for older adults who can come and enjoy the hot and nutritious meals together with others. And as they come to the center to engage in cultural activities and art classes, also senior centers, a lot of our members when they come to the center, they find lifelong friendship at the center. According to a lot of data, as research reports, senior centers reduce social isolation but increase the physical health and then mental health of the participant of the senior center. In addition to that, I just want to give you more examples of their impacts in the community. In 2024, Fiscal Year 2024, 1.6 million meals PCA provided to older adults and 300,000 were served at the senior center. Today I really would like to extend my deepest thanks to Councilmembers Brooks and O'Rourke. Your friendship and support really allow us to enhance our senior centers and then the serving population in Philadelphia. And also, we are especially grateful that City Council is recognizing this impact through a resolution honoring Senior Center Month. September is Senior Center Month as well. So on behalf of PCA and older adults in Philadelphia, we really appreciate your dedication and support. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you. Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones.

Thank you so much, Madam Chair. Briefly on this digital equity thing, Bridget Daniels hosted along with a partnership of Comcast and others, the hoisting of a tower near our District office at 59th and Market. It's going to -- its range will cover the 4th District and parts of the 3rd District. This is significant because that partnership gave away hundreds of laptops to men, women, children, seniors, single parents, parents that needed to get into that digital vibe. What was said earlier was in order for you to fill out a job application or get benefits, people don't use paper anymore, they want you to log in and do those things which denies a lot of people who do not have access to the internet, to a second class citizenship. So I applaud what they're doing. That one tower is going to be one square mile of free internet service for every man, woman and child. It will be transformative. A kid doing their homework, a parent filling out an application. It is the kind of thing that moves us not into the future, but in the present. This is not George Jefferson -- I mean George Jetson. It is today and needed. So I want to thank them for moving in that direction. I think they should be spread out over the city, in particular communities of need. And I just think we have to -- it's so many things going on and it's hard for all of us to keep up with it, but there's some things worth paying attention to and that is one of them. Thank you, Madam Chair.

Thank you. Very good information, Councilmember Jones. Thank you for the info.

My name is Isa Pickett. I'm a seminary student and community organizer in Philly. The Occupation of Washington, D.C. by the National Guard was presented as a solution to homelessness and crime in Philadelphia. We are acutely aware of the effect overpolicing has on these two issues. It's like adding kerosene to a fire. What happens when the President pulls the National Guard out of D.C.? The same conditions of poverty and inequality will remain. How can we show Washington that this is not a way to run a peaceful, prosperous city. Brooks' resolution is one way, but my mind also goes to Palestine. Does our commitment to the peace of civilian life extend internationally as well? The occupation of Gaza by Israeli troops ruptures civilian life. Half a million people right now are being forced to starve because of the very thing. This bill seeks to condemn occupation. Famine in Gaza has been declared by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification. And for two years, Gazans have faced the worst of occupation and death. These are people who live the same type of lives we live in Philadelphia. They worked, they studied, they worshiped, they dreamed of better lives for themselves and their families. As we hope to condemn the occupation of American cities by the National Guard, I hope Gaza and the international crimes committed by the Israeli military are in your mind as well. That brings me to the ask I have of the Council, to stop pouring kerosene on the fire. Philadelphia is a beautiful, strong city that I love and we are capable of action, both nationally and internationally. When we condemn occupation, it matters. And I hope this resolution passes, but I implore you to reconsider our relationship with Israel, our sister city, relationship with Tel Aviv. Condemn Israel's actions with the same certainty that we condemn Washington's actions. Thanks.

Thank you.

May we also have Renee Cunningham, Ciera Ellison, Lynn Landes, Jenny Greenberg, William Collins, Joan Pompei, Erica Martinez and Teofioo Reyes also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good morning, Council President and members of City Council. My name is Ciera Ellison and I am the President of the Philadelphia ACLU, Philadelphia Chapter Board. I rise today in support of Councilmember Brooks' resolution condemning the federal deployment of National Guard troops into American cities. Flooding more armed troops into communities already suffering from an overbearing presence of surveillance will not make our city safer. In fact, it is more dangerous by sending military forces in our neighborhoods to arrest residents and tear families apart. It sets a dangerous precedent, jeopardizes community safety and represents an overarching power grab. There is no place for armed military troops in our communities, not in our neighborhoods and not on our streets. The idea of troops arresting residents and tearing families apart goes against everything this country is supposed to stand for here at home. U.S. military conduct is governed by strict constitutional limits. The administration risks shattering the safeguards that restrict the role of the military and civilian law enforcement and undermines centuries' old laws that are designed intentionally to keep armed forces off our streets. People have a right to protest, to observe law enforcement activity and to speak out against injustice. Military personnel are not trained to police civilians, and their deployment escalates foreseeable risks to protesters, constitutional rights, risks that could have very severe consequences. Let's be clear, these actions are not about safety. They are about scaring communities into silence, and the communities being targeted are largely Black, Latino and immigrant. That is why we cannot afford to wait and respond after the damage is done. Each authoritarian overreach erodes our civil liberties and makes it harder to act at all. If we fail to act proactively now, we risk losing the very sovereignty and peace we seek to protect in Philadelphia. On behalf of the ACLU of Philadelphia, I urge this Council to adopt this resolution and send a clear message there is no place for a federal military invasion in our City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you.

Good morning. I'm Lynn Landes, Phillysafestreets.org. I'm opposed to both 250788 and 250373-A, as they are a continuation of City Council's policies that have failed to adequately protect the safety of residents, visitors and businesses. Many Americans believe that President Trump has a legal right and responsibility to deploy the National Guard to cities that have for years, if not decades, violated the rights of their own citizens to public safety. These cities have flagrantly aided and abetted criminal individuals and organizations, including drug cartels, by weakening their own local laws and not enforcing state and federal laws. Their actions have resulted in tragic rates of violent crime, rampant theft, human trafficking, drug dealing, illegal immigration. And closed stores and businesses in Kensington and other parts of Philly are testimony to this continuing crisis making matters worse. City Council is now being asked to make it illegal for employers to even know the complete criminal background or even the current criminal status of potential employees. This violates an employer's right to know vital information they need to protect themselves, their employees and their businesses. Besides it is really a bad idea to help those with criminal backgrounds by violating the legal and constitutional rights of others. There are better, more legitimate ways City Council can help these individuals. Thank you.

Good morning, City Councilmembers. My name is Jenny Greenberg. I'm the Executive Director of the Neighborhood Gardens Trust. Thank you for the opportunity to speak today in support of Resolution 250751, which authorizes the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of two properties at the Peace Garden located at 20th and West Norris Streets. Neighborhood Gardens Trust is Philadelphia's Land Trust for the protection of community gardens and other shared green spaces. We've been able to acquire and preserve 54 gardens across the city, and we're thrilled to be working with New Jerusalem now, the volunteers and neighbors who for over 20 years have been caring for the beautiful Peace Garden. It has flower beds seating a colorful mosaic. It's a place of beauty and inspiration for so many. In 2023, one of the properties at the Peace Garden was threatened by development and NGT was able to secure a state grant to purchase that lot thanks to the leadership of Councilman Young. We are very excited to be able to preserve the rest of the garden and to support it for years and generations to come. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you.

Good morning, City Council. My name is William Collins. I'm a volunteer with AARP, Pennsylvania right here in Philly. I live in District 4. It is an honor for me to join you today in supporting the resolution put forward by Councilmember Kendra Brooks, recognizing the month of September as National Senior Center Month here in the city of Philadelphia. This honors Philly's Corporation for Aging and the city's over two dozen senior centers for the exceptional service and support the older adults. At AARP, we support flipping the script on aging by promoting older adults as a time of opportunity, growth and continued contribution to society and supporting this resolution. We encourage all Philadelphians to recognize that aging is a valuable and active phase of life and that senior centers are essential for supporting this phase. Across the country, AARP works to empower older adults to live with dignity, choice and independence. Here in Philadelphia we have and continue to support efforts to provide direct programs, and that includes senior centers which will do a number of things that help connect elders, reduce isolation, support mental and physical health and link people to essential services. We are very concerned that senior centers remain accessible, responsive and wellresourced. We respect your recognition and we support their recognition of celebrating National Senior Center Month in Philadelphia, not just to honor their legacy but to advocate for their future. We know how much these centers matter not only to older adults who visit this local senior center, but to health and economic resilience of the entire city by helping people age in place, stay active and avoid causing health care interventions. Senior centers save public dollars and enhance quality of life. Thank you for recognizing their value. (Applause.)

Thank you.

We have Joan Pompei, Erica Martinez, Teofioo Reyes. May Ann Park, Kevin Hong, Ruth Holland, Alice Hunt and Jack Hemeghan also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good morning. My name is Joan Pompei. I am here to stand in support of Councilman Brooks' resolution to condemn the deployment of the National Guard to America cities. I am a domestic worker and member leader of the National Domestic Workers Alliance Pennsylvania Chapter. History has shown that America was built on immigration. To build our city, we need immigrants. Look around and everyone has a heritage of an immigrant. The National Guard coming to cities like Philadelphia takes away our freedom and our rights. We have seen in other cities like Washington, D.C. where the National Guard has caused chaos, parents taken away from their kids, people pulled out of cars and work sites to be deported, immigrants quitting their jobs, not going to school, working or the doctor visits. This creates an unbelievable and inhumane amount of fear for families. We have seen the harassment and arrest of citizens as well whose rights have been violated in a widespread manner. This is the false name of security and untruth told by the Trump administration. We cannot allow this to happen in Philadelphia. As a nanny, I believe that all children have the right to be with their parents regardless of what country their parents are from. Every child has the right to go to school safely, to go to the doctor, for their parents to safely go to work. We have seen political leadership in cities like Providence, Rhode Island and Chicago where elected officials stand with the population. We need you to vote yes on this resolution to keep Philadelphia safe from the National Guard. Thank you. (Applause.)

(Spanish translation). INTERPRETER: Good morning. My name is Erica Martinez. I am a member organizer of the Restaurant Worker Committee. I'm here to show our support of the resolution presented by Councilmember Kendra Brooks to condemn the deployment of the National Guard to American cities. We have had the military in our streets for many years in the name of security and order. When the military has been deployed to the streets in our countries of origin, it has not led to more safety, security or freedom. It has led to death, kidnappings and the resulting destruction of our communities. We are not the enemy of our fellow Philadelphians. Immigrant workers, along with other working families, do the jobs that make the city function day after day. They want to make us believe that Philadelphia is a disaster and that we need the National Guard to establish control. We must not permit them to tell these lies nor allow them to create more cruelty and violence that can tear our city apart. We need to be able to walk our streets without fear of being disappeared. We need to be able to go to work without the fear of being arrested. We need you to vote yes to this resolution and protect our city from the lies and violence that the National Guard will bring to our working families. (Applause.)

Good morning, Councilmembers. My name is Teofioo Reyes and I serve as organizing director of Make the Road Pennsylvania, representing Black and Brown, Latina and immigrant members in North and Northeast Philadelphia that will be directly impacted by any deployment of the National Guard. I also speak as a Philadelphia resident who has lived in Fairmount going on two decades, but I've witnessed firsthand the damage that these types of deployments have already caused in other cities. And I'm here to speak in support of Councilmember Brooks' Resolution 250788. Since the guards arrival in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., I've seen friends, including citizens born here in the United States arrested because of their race or because they were speaking another language. This is not safety. This is intimidation. In the summer to speak Spanish daily, I fear that I too could be unfairly targeted for nothing more than the language I use of my family and community. These deployments have created a pervasive climate of fear across the country and they send a message that democracy is being suspended, that military force is going to replace civil governance. History shows us the danger of such misuse of emergency powers from Latin America to every country, every continent around the world, authority and leaders have declared false states of emergency to consolidate control, silence dissent and erode civil liberties. We cannot allow those same tactics to take root here in Philadelphia. Chicago has successfully forestalled a federal invasion through the coordinated opposition of its residents and leaders and we can do the same here. Our city does not need soldiers patrolling our neighborhoods. What we need is investment in community safety, in jobs, in housing, in education and in services that strengthen and not suppress our people. I urge this Council to condemn federal overreach and to stand firmly for the rights and dignities of all Philadelphians. This is an important first step in the coordinated opposition. Thank you so much. (Applause.)

Good morning. My name is Ann Park. I live in the 3rd District and I'm a member of the Asian Pacific Islander Political Alliance. I'm here to wholeheartedly support Councilmember Brooks' resolution condemning federal invasion of American cities. Why is the Trump administration threatening to send the National Guard to our streets when Philadelphia is working to deliver thoughtful programs that are already helping reduce crime? These are clearly the actions of a bully who is abusing power to silence us. The fact that the military is being sent into cities to support ICE agents is also a frightening escalation of Trump's deportation agenda. ICE has already been terrorizing immigrant communities in Philadelphia, targeting people who look non-White or don't speak English. While doing know-yourrights outreach at the Southeast Asian Market, I've heard directly from immigrant community members who feel afraid in public spaces. It's unacceptable that Philadelphians feel unsafe and intimidated in this way. I'm personally the child of Korean immigrants who came to this country because they believed so strongly in America's democratic freedoms. We need to take a stand now because we can't let threats of violence become the new norm. As your constituent, I want to know that the councilmembers plan to face these federal invasions head on and are taking the responsibility of defending our democracy very seriously. I urge Council to support this resolution. Thank you.

We have Kevin Hong, Bruce Holland, Alice Hunt, Jack Hemeghan. May Claudia Martinez, David Alexander Jenkins and Jamie Gullen also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

My name is Kevin Hong. I live in the 1st District and I'm also a member of Asian Pacific Islander Political Alliance. I'm here to voice support for Councilmember Brooks' resolution condemning Trump's deployment of the National Guard. Trump's agenda is to support ICE operations in cities where these troops are deployed. We've seen agents abduct people off the streets without identifying themselves, without presenting or even bothering to obtain signed judicial warrants, deporting people to foreign countries they have zero relation to. They can only get away with this with wielding a threat of force and he's given the game away. He's not deploying constitutional lawyers to support ICE. We've been doing what we can to make sure our neighbors know their rights, but Trump wants to escalate the force that ICE brings to every encounter. The administration wants us to make us afraid to assert our rights. They want to make it so our rights don't matter. Now, unlike many of the people in this room I haven't lived in Philly for very long, but I've learned that there's something special about this city and the people who live here. Maybe it's because my first night here was in November of 2022 when it looked like the Eagles might go all the way, and every person I passed as I walked through my neighborhood for the first time told me, Go birds. But I've learned people care about each other here. The word neighbor means something in Philly and that is something we should cherish and protect. All of us and our neighbors deserve better than to live in fear. And if we want to not live in fear, the minimum we can do is declare our opposition to Trump's National Guard appointments. Thank you. (Applause.) UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: Good morning, City Council. Thank you so much for supporting PCA and the senior centers. I am a member of a senior center. When I tell you that I was a very active person in my life. And when I stopped working, I had too much to do. I was told about the center. Since I started that center, I'm right back to where I was before. They love you. You do this, you travel, you eat, you love. When someone dies, some people in the center don't have family, we become their family. Some people can't walk, we become their legs. Some people are not as well as I am. And one thing about the Northern Living Center and all the centers that I have visited, you need it. It's important. Everyone in this room one day will be a senior, if you're not one now. You need some place to go, don't you? Don't you want to have a place waiting for you to go to have some fun? So one thing I'd say about being in the center: It's necessary. It's needed. If you don't -- people die and they be alone. You want to keep living as a senior and not just exist. So I would like to say please thank you for all you do. Thank you PCA, because the vision was a wonderful thing. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Being in a center has made me even better than I would have been sitting home alone. Thank you. (Applause.)

Good afternoon, City Councilmembers. My name is Alice Hunt. I am a lifelong proud resident of Philadelphia. I came through the Philadelphia public school system at John Barry Elementary School, Sayre Junior High School. And I'm from the Class of 213, of the Philadelphia High School for Girls. I also attended West Chester and graduated from West Chester University through a city scholarship. Thank you, Philadelphia. I have worked and lived in parts of the city in West Philadelphia and Southwest Philadelphia and in (inaudible). I became a member of the Firehouse Active adult Center. I first came to them under the Sunshine Older Adult Center located at 58th and Walnut. The opportunity came for us to move over to 54th and Haverford at the Firehouse Adult Center. That is because of the efforts of Councilman Jones and former City Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell and the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging. Being a part of a senior center has been rewarding. I have learned so much. I've continued to do the active things that I tend to do in life. I'm a person that does not let any grass or moss grow under my feet. I'm always on the move, and I thank Councilwoman Brooks for the resolution to recognize senior centers. They are very important. We get all types of activities, programming. We have people that present workshops, computer classes, phone technology classes, great lunches and just a wonderful place to go, to live, to grow and to continue to be a part of this society, be a part of Philadelphia. Thank you, PCA. And Go Birds. (Applause.)

(Spanish translation).

Good morning. My name is Claudia and I'm here as a domestic worker with the National Domestic Workers Alliance to support Councilwoman Brooks' resolution against the invasion of the National Guard in Philadelphia. We don't want them in our city. First of all, this is already causing a lot of panic and fear in the immigrant community. There are people who can no longer go to work freely for fear of being detained. Before we had a free and peaceful community and now there is only fear. We don't want families to be separated. We have seen cases where they deport the father and leave the mother alone with the children. I am currently helping a mother whose husband was detained five days after the birth of her baby. She couldn't pay the rent, so I'm helping with giving her where to live and everything she needs. I consider Councilmembers to be a key foundation for protecting the immigrant community in Philadelphia. I demand that ICE stop the detentions. They have caused a lot of damage and we don't want deportations in our city. They should not wear masks and they should not use violence against people. We need justice for us immigrants. We are only in this country out of deep necessity and because we want to move forward in our lives. Please support us with your vote today. (Applause.)

We have David Alexander Jenkins, Jamie Gullen. May William Thompson, Peter Ahn, Nicholas Carmack, Harry Wood and Ogbonna Hagins also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Mr. President, members and guests, David Alexander Jenkins and I rise in support of Resolution 250788. Council President Johnson, there is a thug-like behavior present in American politics today, a rotting of the core of democratic principles which has left us with a stench unbearable at the federal state and, yes, even local level. Politicians have militarized and weaponized the people of the United States of America against themselves in violent and most disdainful violations of the law. You need look no further than beyond the rail that separates one from the gentlemen, men and women behind him for this pervasive culture of parking-lot politics and thug likebehavior. In Philadelphia, and as we wait with bated breath for an acknowledgement and condemnation of its heinous nature from those who lead us beyond, we do not comment on personnel matters where the silence is kept. For a space, members, please allow me to accept -- to relay my concern for your safety and the acknowledgement of the dignity you uphold and exemplify beyond the kindness which has been shown to you. My friends, our founding fathers in drafting the Constitution, were explicit in their suspicion of standing armies imposed upon a free people. The Third Amendment often overlooked was borne in the lived memory of foreign troops quartered in our towns without consent. The Posse Comitatus Act of 1878 further codified this principle restricting the use of federal military forces in civilian law enforcement. Together these laws and precedents affirm that the defense of liberty lies in local governance, not in federal occupation. The Trump administration's deployment of National Guard into American cities without local consent violates the very letter of the law. It erodes the checks and balances meant to shield civil societies from executive overreach. It introduces federal troops. It is not to bring order, nay, rather, the very act brings nothing more than intimidation, which we recognize as the handmaiden of tyranny. Therefore, we shall not allow the President of the United States to place soldiers in the streets against the will of our local leaders. We will reject premises that liberty can be protected by the tools of coercion it cannot. Our forebearers were to reject that premise at Lexington and Concord, and we reject it now. Therefore, we stand with Councilmember Brooks and her condemnation of the Trump administration's unilateral deployment of the National Guard into U.S. cities without local consent as a grotesque overreach and threat to democracy and civil liberties. We shall make no room here for totalitarianism and I urge you all to unanimously pass this resolution for the sake of our democracy and the society we are sworn to protect. I yield back. (Applause.)

Good afternoon. My name is Jamie Gullen. I'm the managing attorney of the Employment Unit at Community Legal Services in Philadelphia. I'm here today to support Bill No. 250373, introduced by Councilmember Landau, to make very critical amendments to Philadelphia's Fair Chance Hiring law so that people with criminal records can have a fair shot at employment. I'd like to start by thanking Councilmember Landau and her team for their extraordinary work on this bill, bringing together a diverse group of individuals and organizations from those with lived experience to the Chamber of Commerce to communitybased groups and organized labor to come together in support of this critical initiative. I want to spend my short time here though thanking Community Legal Services' clients who shared their experiences and stories with us and what needed reforms were necessary in order for them to be able to have a shot at employment, advancing their careers and supporting themselves and their families, our clients every single day despite their work, their work history, their credentials, their talents, their determination, who face roadblock after roadblock as they seek employment because of old, irrelevant criminal records. And Bill No. 250373 makes the changes necessary for our clients to be able to show that they are more than what a piece of paper says about them. So thank you to Councilmember Landau and to all of City Council for being champions of fair chance hiring. And should this bill pass, Community Legal Services is here for the community to help people understand the new changes under the law and to assist people in clearing their criminal records and advocating for them to be able to work under this law. So thank you very much.

Good afternoon. My name is Pastor Billy Thompson. I'm from Strawberry Mansion Faith Based Coalition. To Council President Johnson, District Council, Council-at-Large, we'd like to thank you for the resolution of renaming 3900 block of Conshohocken after Bishop Keith Reed, Sr., and we'd like to thank Councilwoman Bass and my own Councilman Young. And to Councilman Jones, Councilman Jones, we thank you. We thank you for being the engine behind making a dream come true, to make the impossible possible for man and a family and a church and a community and to make -- he can see why he's alive, these things come by men and women served and died, then the families to see the glory or get the repercussion what happens afterwards. But you let this man here live and see and get his roses while he's alive, get his flowers while he alive. He not just served, he's continuing to serve. And we want to thank you. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. And we also like to thank one of your staff members, Caroline, who engineered and who helped to make this all possible. We want to thank you and your office for really, really helping us. To Councilman Johnson and to all you guys, what you do here in this room for the great city of Philadelphia, may God bless you, may God bless you, may God bless you. Thank you.

God bless you too.

I'll give a shout-out to my son Kenny. I love you. (Applause.)

That's what's up. Where Kenny at? I know you watching. You heard your pop? There he go. That's what's up.

Good afternoon. My name is Peter Ahn. I'm a Presbyterian Pastor, but today I speak as a Germantown resident, speaking as a part of API PA, in favor of Resolution 250788, condemning the Trump administration's deployment of the National Guard. A clergy, a German clergy, said this 80 years ago: First they came for the communist and I did not speak out because I was not a communist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out because I was not a Jew. Let's add our own context here. Then they came for the Black and Brown POC communities. I did not speak out because I was not a POC. Then they came for the Medicaid, Medicare, school, lunches, benefits, and I did not speak out because I did not need them. Then they came for me, but there was no one left to speak for me when three cities already have their civil liberties breached. Our silence does not make us safe. It erodes our potential solidarity. It makes all of us, all of the city smaller. It's time to make ourselves bigger and stronger. This resolution is about urgently pushing back catastrophe or slowing down catastrophe. At least a united city is good, but solidarity with other cities is even better, quickly, not as a part of an organization or a resolution. Just cease fire in Gaza does not mean anti-Semitism. Let's get that clear. The United Nations, the largest international human rights organizations such as amnesty, International Human Rights Watch declared it genocide and apartheid. Over 150 countries in the U.N. General Assembly recognize statehood of Palestine. Do we realize that our elected officials are violating the Leahy Law? Urge them to enforce our own human rights law, Councilmembers. (Applause.)

My name is Nicholas Carmack. I'm truly happy to be here today. Special thanks to Councilman Young. I'm here to speak in support of Resolution 250751, which is dispose of some land that we call Peace Garden. I'm a staff member of New Jerusalem Recovery Program that was started in the late '80s as a way to, you know, address a problem in the community. And, you know, for over 35 years we have been doing that. Our program is based in community service and spirituality. Peace Garden is a huge part of all three of those, right, having a green space to sit in for anybody who, like myself who lives in North Philly, knows that's not super common, right. So we're grateful to be able to have for over 20 years been taking care of Peace Garden and using it as a space for our residents to provide a service to the community. We have daily community service in our program. And, you know, if you've ever been by 20th and Norris, you'll see that there's a beautiful mosaic mural that was designed by our residents. But the biggest use of the space is really just the whole community. It's about 15 or 20 minutes to walk to the next park. So it's a small space, but it's an important space to us. It's an important space to the kids to be able to have the space to sit, be shaded in the summer,and just a space to be in community together. So help us continue to help the community and support 250751 and thank you for your time. (Applause.)

Good afternoon, everybody. I'm here in support of Resolution 250751. Thank you, Councilman Young. My name is Harry Wood. I've been associated with New Jerusalem now since 1993. I also reside in the 2100 block of Lambert Street. That's right around the corner from Peace Garden. For 20, 25-plus years I've been fortunate enough to be able to be in that peace garden. If you've ever been around that neighborhood, you know right now it's in the development up and down Diamond Street. If you then go a block or two from wherever it is, there's really nothing that you will see but construction areas. The people there that live in the Health Center No. 5, that reside there, that's one of the places that they go to every day just to get away to see how nature is. So many people have been there that I can't count and hope to meet, but I invite any and everyone just to come down and see the Peace Garden and enjoy what God has given us. Thank you very much. (Applause.)

Ogbonna Hagins, fourth generation chattel slavery survivor. I rise today to talk about Resolution 250776. This resolution condemns President Trump's proposed removal of slavery-related content from national parks, including exhibits at the Independence National Historical Park honoring the nine individuals enslaved by George Washington developed by avenging the Ancestors Coalition. The way the President house is being handled itself is what's called a badge of slavery. This is not just discrimination from the federal government, particularly the Department of the Interior is actively participating in a badge of slavery, continuing the legacy that American Freedmen still experience today. Congress has not done its job until Congress fulfills its constitutional duty under the second section of the 13th Amendment to define the badges, vestiges and incidents of slavery. What are the badges, vestiges and incidents of slavery? American Freedmen are only formally freed from four things: Chattelization, forced labor without pay, restrictions on entering into contracts and being able to testify against White people. Other than that, slavery still exists for the American Freedmen, the school-toprison pipeline, Freedmen schools being underfunded compared to White schools, the devaluation of homes. These are all badges of slavery that Congress has to define and then abolish. Until these things are done, we're going to continue to have what's happening down at the Independence Mall. We're going to continue to have badges of slavery being replaced. Once one is gone, another one is there and badges of slavery in short is racism. Racism has to be defined by Congress. And we've also spoken to our great Congressman who's retiring, Dwight Evans. If you can use your influence, Council President, to talk to Congressman Dwight Evans as he's going out to introduce this so that he can do what the Constitution says that should be done, thank you very 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING much. Ogbonna Hagins. Over and out. (Applause.)

Council President, there are no further names for public comment.

That concludes today's public comment period. We will now consider the bills and resolution on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. Would the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250731.

A resolution renaming the 2300 block of Snyder Avenue "James Darrell Robinson, Jr., Way" in honor of James "Lil Darrell" Robinson, Jr., recognizing his contributions to Yesha Ministries and his community through his musical genius and artistic talents. 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250731.

Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250731 be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion is carried. The resolution 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250732.

A resolution renaming the 1900 block of South Street "Dr. Beverly Wylie Way" in honor of Reverend Dr. Beverly Wylie, in recognition of her steadfast commitment to her church and dedicated service to the South Philadelphia community.

Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250732.

Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I move that Resolution No. 250732 be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.) 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250732 be withdrawn. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries and Resolution No. 250732 has been withdrawn. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250733.

A resolution renaming the 2000 block of Snyder Avenue "Anton K. Moore Way" in honor of Anton K. Moore's commitment to giving back to his 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING community and empowering the youth of Philadelphia.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Cindy Bass for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250733.

Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250733 be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250751.

A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 2002 North 20th Street, 2007 Orange Street located in the 5th Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Young for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250751.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for its adoption. (Duly seconded.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250751 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250755.

250775.

250775. Excuse me.

A resolution renaming the 2100 block of McClellan Street "Christine E. 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Thomas Way" in honor of Christine E. Thomas for her extraordinary service to her community and to the City of Philadelphia.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250775.

Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250775 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250776.

A resolution condemning President Donald Trump's recent efforts to whitewash, suppress, and rewrite American history by removing slavery related content from national parks - including an exhibit at Independence National Historical Park honoring the nine individuals enslaved by President George Washington, developed by the Avenging the Ancestors Coalition thereby attempting to erase Black history from the national narrative. 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250776.

Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250776 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250777.

A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 4152, 4154, 4200, 4202, 4204, 4220, 4227 Viola Street; 4153, 4157, 4205 Leidy Avenue; 1703, 1711 North 42nd Street; 1129, 1135, 1201, 1205 and 1207 North 41st Street in the 3rd Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia and further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code. 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250777.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250777 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250779.

A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 4947-49, 4951, 4953, 4955, 4957, 4967, 4969-73, 4979, 4981, 4983, 4985, 4987, 4989, 4989 ½, 4991, 4991 ½ West Girard Avenue located in the 4th Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250779.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for its adoption. (Duly seconded.) 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250779 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250780.

A resolution renaming the 3900 block of Conshohocken Avenue "Bishop Keith Reed Way" to honor Bishop Keith W. Reed, Sr. for his 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING incredible work as a preacher, teacher, lecturer and counselor.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250780.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for its adoption.

Is there a second? (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250780 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.) 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING

The ayes have it and the motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250785.

A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 1811 North Bucknell Street, 1818 North 23rd Street, 1805 North Ringgold Street, 1850 North Ringgold Street, 1937 North 19th Street, 1939, 1945, 1935, 1947 and 1907, 1913 and 1931 North 19th Street, 1909 North Van Pelt Street in the 5th Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia, and further authorizing the 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Young for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250785.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for its adoption. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250785 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250788.

A resolution condemning the Trump administration's deployment of the National Guard to American cities and calling on leaders across the country to defend democratic governance and civil liberties through every lawful means.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Brooks for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250788.

Thank you, Council, President. 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250788 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed?

Nay.

The ayes have it and the motion carries. The resolution is adopted. 1 nay. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 250791.

A 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING resolution approving the reappointment of McCullough Williams, III, to the Philadelphia Water, Sewer and Stormwater Rate Board.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Driscoll for a motion regarding Resolution No. 250791.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for its adoption on your behalf. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 250791 be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 250373-A.

An ordinance amending Chapter 9-3500 of Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards" to amend definitions, add clarifications and enhance remedies, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Will the Chief Clerk call the roll.

Councilmember Phillips.

Aye.

Council President, can I -

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.

Thank you so much. Thank you, Council President. I'd like to say something real quick before the vote first. Thank you to all the partners who helped shape these amendments, including Community Legal Services, the Chamber of Commerce and many others. I want to clarify something as it relates to summary records, that this 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING legislation brings us into line with existing state law, including the law regarding consideration of nontraffic summary offenses under CHRIA. Thank you.

Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please reset and call the roll.

Councilmember Phillips.

Aye.

Councilmember Jones.

Aye.

Councilmember Landau.

Aye.

Councilmember Lozada.

9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Aye.

Councilmember Young.

Aye.

Councilmember Brooks.

Aye.

Councilmember Harrity.

Aye.

Councilmember Driscoll.

Aye.

Councilmember O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilmember Squilla.

9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Aye.

Councilmember Bass.

Aye.

Councilmember Ahmad.

Aye.

And, Council President Johnson.

Aye. The eyes are 13 and the nays are 0. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative the bill passes. (Applause.)

Congratulations. Will the Clerk please read any additional resolutions on today's Calendar.

A privileged resolution recognizing 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING and supporting Philadelphia MED Week, October 6th through October 10, 2025, during which the City will provide critical information, resources, opportunities and inspiration to the business community. Introduced by Councilmember Jones.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones for a motion on the resolution.

If I may be recognized briefly about this particular resolution.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. Colleagues, I've introduced this resolution since I came to City Council in '08. It is 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING different this year, for reasons I clearly understand that the bully in D.C. has put the metaphorical gun to the City of Philadelphia's head and said, you must erase, you must change, you must recognize there's a new world order. That's the only way I can put it. And in order for us not to be at risk, and I won't say the particulars, almost $2 billion worth of resources that help people and citizens we've had to alter and to step around this guy. I remember Lucien Blackwell sitting where I believe you sit, Kendra, coming up with this as a result of his working with Parren Mitchell, Congressman in D.C. to recognize MED Week as it was meant to be. And now, here we are. We're going to do some good things with it because a rose 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING by any other name is still a rose and we're going to get it done. But the point is we should not be doing this Kabuki dance with this guy. He's a bully, as people have said all day, as your resolution suggests. And if you the one thing -- you from South Philly, I'm from West Philly. One thing about a bully, he start taking your lunch early in the school year, you're going be on the Jenny Craig diet all year. He ain't goin stop. So we have to, as we move forward as a body, as a city, consider how far we're going to back up. At what point do we draw the line. At what point do we say enough is enough, we elected you, we are your employers, you need to be considerate that the customer is always right. And so, I move for the 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)

One small point of information. We didn't vote for him. (Applause.)

I heard that.

But thank you, Member Jones. In all seriousness, I do understand the complexity of the issue that we're dealing with, most importantly standing strong in the face of adversity. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

A privileged resolution recognizing, congratulating and celebrating Valley Youth House on the distinguished occasion of its 20th anniversary in Philadelphia, passionately serving young individuals to help them achieve their full potential by providing essential services like counseling, housing support, community connections and life training skills. Introduced by 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Councilmember Landau.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Landau.

Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING please read the title of the next resolution.

A privileged resolution recognizing October 2025 as Cyber Security Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia and acknowledging the importance of empowering individuals and organizations to prevent and recognize online threats, providing resources to protect sensitive data and fostering a culture of digital safety by educating the public on best practices. Introduced by Councilmember Landau.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Landau for a motion on the resolution.

I move for the adoption of the resolution. 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

A privileged resolution recognizing October 6th through October 10, 2025 as Digital Inclusion Week in the City of Philadelphia. Introduced by Councilmember Landau. 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Landau for a motion on the resolution.

Thank you. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING resolution.

A privileged resolution recognizing September as National Senior Center Month in the City of Philadelphia, honoring the Philadelphia Corporation for the Aging (PCA) and the senior centers for their exceptional service and support to older adults and uplifting this year's National Council on Aging theme, "Powering Possibilities: Flip the Script." Introduced by Councilmember Brooks.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Kendra Brooks for a motion on the resolution.

Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.) 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

A privileged resolution honoring and recognizing the life and legacy of 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING Philadelphia Flyers goaltender and Hockey Hall of Famer Bernie Parent, on the occasion of his passing, for his outstanding contributions to the sport of hockey and the Philadelphia community. Introduced by Councilman Squilla on behalf of Council President Johnson.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Mark Squilla.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution is adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.) 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

A privileged resolution designating the week of Sunday, October 12 through Saturday, October 18, 2025, as "Italian American Heritage Week" in the City of Philadelphia. This is done in celebration of the countless contributions Italian Americans have given to our country and honoring Bob Pantano as Grand Marshall of the 2025 Philadelphia Italian American Heritage Parade. Introduced by Councilman Squilla. COUNCIL PRESIDENT 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla for a motion on the resolution.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution is adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING resolution.

A privileged resolution recognizing and honoring the life and legacy of Alice W. Ballard, a champion of justice and advocacy. Introduced by Councilmember Bass.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass for a motion on the resolution.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution.

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.) COUNCIL PRESIDENT 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING JOHNSON: Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

A privileged resolution recognizing September as Cerebral Visual Impairment, CVI, Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia, celebrating the launch of the Rosenblatt Family CVI Center at OverBrook School for the Blind and commending its mission to improve care, education and research for children with CVI. Introduced by Councilmember Ahmad.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad for a 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING motion on the resolution.

Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

A 9/25/25 - STATED - 2ND READING privileged resolution recognizing October as Vision Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia, and honoring the OverBrook's School for the Blind's leadership in advancing education technology and access for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Introduced by Councilmember Ahmad.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad for a motion on the resolution.

Thank you, Council President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of the next resolution.

Council President, there are no further resolutions in my possession.

That completes our Calendar for today. Are there any brief speeches on behalf of the Minority? The Chair recognizes Councilmember Kendra Brooks.

Thank you, Council President. brief it is, but I do have a speech today. I introduced a resolution recognizing September as the National Senior Month in our city. Philadelphia can and should be a wonderful place for people to grow older. Here in the city, we have over two dozen senior centers that serve as hubs for creativity, social connection, health and independence for thousands of Philadelphia seniors. These city investments are crucial for working families with aging relatives and make it possible for Philadelphia neighborhoods to be vibrant intergenerational communities. And I want to thank the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging for their ongoing work to make sure seniors feel seen and valued in our city. a resolution condemning the deployment of the National Guard in American cities and I want to thank everyone who spoke today in support of the resolution. I've heard from many of you over the last year about the Trump administration and how his policies are affecting you. I know how many of you would love to see the city set up its efforts to push back here in Philadelphia. We are known for standing up for our rights and we don't like people telling us what to do and what our city needs. We take care of our own. This is why I am concerned about the City's current approach. It's why I'm holding hearings on the federal tax on reproductive rights. That's why I introduced a resolution today. How will be one of my focuses this fall. Throughout my first term, we put resources on our city website, pursued aggressive legal strategy and passed laws to protect people from federal attacks and I don't see that now. In his second term, Trump is ramping up his efforts to intimidate and silence people in cities. What we do in this moment will be judged by history and people want to see us do more. We need to be more outspoken because it's the right thing to do and because it's the best way to keep us safe from his administration. It's how we stop Trump from turning his short attention span to us and look at what other cities are doing. We saw in Chicago that Governor J.B. Pritzker spoke out against the deployment of the National Guard and they made it clear that Chicagoans do not want federal troops or armored vehicles in their neighborhoods. The city communicated directly with their residents and did not hide from Trump. As a result, Trump backed off. That didn't happen because they were silent and refused to address Trump. In collar counties, Philadelphia commissioners are proactively holding (inaudible) accountable with their power and in the courts. We need to do the same thing here in Philly. We can't surrender control of our city to federal authorities who are trampling people's rights and undermining our democracy, whether Trump threatening to deploy out-of-state national guardsmen. We must be ready to send a clear message we will protect Philadelphians. Thank you so much, Council President.

You're welcome. Any brief speeches on behalf of the Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Dr. Anthony Phillips.

Thank you, Council President. And greetings to colleagues, most importantly to our neighbors in Philadelphia. In our office, the days are gone when we refer to people as constituents. We like to refer to our folks as neighbors. That word carries weight. So we speak in the and reflects the truth that Philadelphia is not just one city. It is a city of neighborhoods bound together by the shared One Philly ideal. So our neighbors and blogs are filled with proud laborers, teachers, doctors, lawyers, sanitation workers, longshoremen and most importantly, our youngest Philadelphians and our seniors. It is for them that I stand here today to introduce this legislation today that was introduced today around drug paraphernalia. We're tired of seeing these drug paraphernalia stores pop up in our communities. For the most part, they are not permitted in neighborhoods across the city. Yet under current law there remains are technically allowed in I-3 heavy industrial districts. This ordinance eliminates the allowance in allowing industrial zoning with the rest of our code. The message is clear, drug paraphernalia stores are not permitted use anywhere in Philadelphia without community buy-in. This is only the first step that we're doing to work closely with the Administration, Planning Development and the Law Department to identify additional ways to ensure that drug paraphernalia stores and smoke shops cannot slip into our neighborhoods without responsibility, without accountability and without buy-in from our neighbors who live here. Our neighbors are our communities The city was built on the power of small businesses, responsible businesses that empower employees and enrich our communities. That's the model we want to uplift. Finally, as we talk about neighborhoods and the future of our city, I want to highlight an event focused on the future of our city, our young people. This Saturday, September 27th in partnership with Councilman Isaiah Thomas, the School District of Philadelphia, Philadelphia Youth Basketball, the Fluency Action Movement, TeenSHARP, we are proud to present Philly After School Hype, the largest out-of-schooltime fair in Philadelphia, which is going to be in Councilman Jones' area. He has another citywide Alan Horwitz Sixth Man Center, located at 4250 Wissahickon Avenue from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. There will be over 100 youth-focused city resources, workshops, free food, giveaways and opportunities to connect. So a flyer with full details is at each member's desk. Again, we'll see you all for Philly After School Hype. Get your kids involved with an afterschool program, a youth program. We have 100 youth organizations, literally youth organizations there, from 11:00 to 3:00 at 4250 Wissahickon Avenue. Thank you, Council President.

Thank you. The Sixth Man Center is in your district, Member Jones?

Yes, sir.

Are you on the flyer?

Say it again.