COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 14, 2009 11:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM GREENLEE COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
Good morning, everyone. I note that a quorum is present. Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats, and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Reverend Terrence Griffith of the First African American Baptist Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Green. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (All members and guests rise.)
Let us pray. God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, thou has brought us thus far on our way. We have lost our way and we need your guidance. We have fallen and we just can't seem to get up. Please lift us. We are hemmed in on every side and there seems to be no way out. We need your direction. and govern everything with order and love. Therefore, I pray that you look upon our City Council and fill them with the spirit of your wisdom. May they always act in accordance with your will. And give them, God, the fortitude to make decisions for the well-being of every citizen of Philadelphia. Give them the courage to stand up for the right in the face of opposition. Give them the boldness to be unflinching in the presence of hostility. Give them the daring to fight for causes others deem unwinnable, the audacity to stand alone when friends and colleagues desert them and the nerve to make right political, social and economic decisions for city. May they not be motivated by their own concerns, but by your hand and the need of those they represent. And then, God, reward them for their faithfulness and their service. Open for them doors that no man can shut. Make their footstool. May their days be long on earth and their retirement in heavenly mansions, when the words "we're done" will be music to their ears and a golden crown their reward. And, God, what I failed to ask for them, grant it according to your riches and glory. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks Reverend Griffith for his 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, May 7th, 2009, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 7th, 2009 (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of May 7th, 2009 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
Madam President, on behalf of the republicans, there no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney, who will present a resolution congratulating my friend and neighbor now, Dominic Cermele, for his contributions and service to Girard College and to the City of Philadelphia. Will Mr. Cermele and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. have an array of Councilmembers joining Councilman Kenney. Councilwoman Tasco and Councilman Clarke, also Councilman DiCicco.
Good morning. Thank you. This is a resolution congratulating Dominic M. Cermele for his enormous contributions and lifetime of service to Girard College and to the City of Philadelphia. Whereas, Dominic M. Cermele will retire in June after serving for the past six years as the 15th President of Girard College, one of the world's first residential schools for children from single-parent families with limited financial resources; and Whereas, in choosing to head the school in which he was educated and came of age, he capped a distinguished career of public service as a Philadelphia city official and elected judge in Philadelphia Traffic Court; and Whereas, during the week of May 15th to 18th, he and his classmates will celebrate the 50th anniversary of their graduation from Girard College High School; and Whereas, Cermele was born in Philadelphia on October 27th, 1941, the middle child and only son of Pasquale and Rita Cermele; and Whereas, two years after his father's death, Cermele entered Girard College as a student on September 13th, 1948, graduating in June 1959; and
Whereas, after attending Girard College, Drexel University and Cheyney State University, Cermele spent his life and career in the city of his birth. Starting as First Deputy Chief Clerk, he was elected to two consecutive terms as Traffic Court Judge beginning in 1981; and Whereas, in 1989, Cermele resigned his judicial commission and joined the Administration of Mayor W. Finance Director, assigned to develop a new City department to handle the resolution of disputed parking tickets in a non-judicial, civil process; and Whereas, when Mayor Edward G. Rendell combined the Board of Administrative Adjudication and the Tax Review Board in 1995, he appointed Cermele as Executive Director of the newly created Office of Administrative Review; and COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Whereas, in 1992, Cermele was appointed to the Board of Directors of City Trusts and in 1996 became a founding member and Chairman of the Girard College Board of Managers, a group of distinguished civic, business and education leaders who help guide the college's academic program; and Whereas, Cermele resigned his lifelong appointment to the Board of Directors of City Trusts and the Board of Managers when he was named President of College; and Whereas, his experiences as a student at Girard College while it was still an all-boys' orphanage have informed his passion and decision-making as the school's President; and Whereas, he has presided over the growth of the school's enrollment from 590 boys and girls in grades 1 through 12 in 2003 to 751 in 2007-2008; and Whereas, during his tenure, Girard has become a center for year-round use of its facilities by children at the school and from the community-at-large. More than 1,000 children participate in the summer day camp programs. In 2007, Girard College hosted Girls Rock Philly, a first in the City of Philadelphia; and Whereas, his experience as a Board member of CATCH influenced him to expand Girard's behavioral health component, establishing the Department of Counseling and Family Services in January 2008; and Whereas, after the sudden death of his older daughter in October 2008, he and his wife, Barbara, created the Dominic Cermele Cacia Memorial Fund to benefit the department's programs and special services; and Whereas, besides raising more than $2.5 million for Girard by spearheading its annual Gala fundraiser and other special events, Cermele has led efforts to modernize Girard's aging physical plant and superstructure. The roof of Founder's Hall, its National Historic Landmark, was completely replaced in 2007. The $1.4 million project was financed by alumni and donors, a state Keystone grant and the second-largest Save America's Treasures grant in Pennsylvania; and
Whereas, the Artist-in-Residence program has been greatly expanded, with two resident dance groups in 2007 and 2008 and a theatre 2000; and Whereas, in 1998, he endowed the Pat and Rita Cermele Distinguished Service Award, a fund now valued at $40,000. The award, with attendant monetary gift, is given annually to an outstanding instructional or residential faculty member of the boarding school; and Whereas, Cermele has been active as a civic leader, particularly at Girard both as a member and former President of the Girard College Alumni Association. In addition to current membership on a number of governmental boards and authorities, he is active in community and civic organizations in both South Philadelphia and in neighborhoods adjacent to Girard College in North Philadelphia. Now, therefore, be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that Council does hereby congratulate Dominic Cermele for his of service to Girard College and to the City of Philadelphia. Further resolved, that the City Council of Philadelphia does further commend Dominic Cermele for exemplifying the highest ideals of civic duty, service to the less fortunate, and dedication to the common good, proving himself a true son of Stephen Girard, who said, "My deeds must be my life." Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Dominic Cermele as evidence of the sincere sentiments and recognition of this legislative body. (Applause.)
Well, I would certainly thank the members of Council for this wonderful resolution. I thank all of you, but I would particularly note some, and first I would like to of City Council. When I was just five years old, my father died and we first moved in with my mother's parents in South Philadelphia at the corner of Broad and Wharton. At the time also living at Broad and Wharton was Councilwoman Verna. And now that I'm about to retire, I actually bought a condo directly across the hall from Councilwoman Verna. So we have been neighbors and we're still neighbors and we have been friends for life, and I truly thank you, Madam.
I would like to thank Councilman Clarke. Girard College is in his district, and he has been very supportive of Girard College, and I thank you, sir, for your part in this resolution.
I would like to Tasco, because not only is she a great Councilperson, but she's one of my bosses. She is a member of the Board of Directors of City Trusts. So I answer to her. And I thank you. And I would like to thank together Councilman DiCicco and Councilman Kenney, because they have been friends of mine for many years, dating back to when I was the Deputy Chief Clerk of Traffic Court, and I fired Frank for political reasons. But he did see the light. And Councilman Kenney, he actually was a kid who came in and volunteered and ended up being the Treasurer of my campaign when I first ran for judge. Did you ever account for all the money?
Good. So to them and to all the members of Council, I do thank you. This -- I've had a very full life, a very full life. I've had some moments of great joy, like when I married Barbara, and, of course, times of great sorrow. And I guess I've had my share of success and probably more than my share of failures, but through it all, it's been a very full and wonderful life for us, and that you would recognize that fullness of that life for me, I truly appreciate it. Thank you. (Applause.)
Stay with us, Judge, because this is Girard College day. This is an additional resolution congratulating Girard College, its outstanding students and alumni, its accomplished academic and residential faculty and its dedicated staff as Girard begins its 161st year, and furthermore celebrating Girard College's distinguished history, its proud record of achievement and service to our city keep the vision of Stephen Girard alive for future generations. Whereas, Girard College, one of the world's first free residential schools for children from single-parent families with limited financial resources has just completed its 160th year; and Whereas, mirroring the history of our country, Girard has evolved from a 19th century orphanage that trained white, fatherless boys in the professions and trades of that era to a 21st century boarding school that provides boys and girls of any race or creed with a free college preparatory education; and Whereas, while the school has undergone several transformations, it remains true to the vision of Stephen Girard, a French immigrant who came to Philadelphia in 1776, achieved remarkable success in shipping and banking, served as a member of Philadelphia's Select Council, a forerunner of this body, and his personal care to victims of Philadelphia's yellow fever epidemic in 1793, helped the United States finance the War of 1812, and left one of the greatest fortunes in American history to his adopted city to build and endow the North Philadelphia school that bears his name; and Whereas, by changing the course of young lives, Stephen Girard's hope was to make a lasting impact on American society;
Whereas, tens of thousands of students have benefited from Girard's vision since the school opened its doors in 1848; and Whereas, Girard's mission is to prepare students for advanced education and life as informed, ethical and productive citizens through a rigorous educational program that promotes intellectual, social and emotional growth; and 700 students in grades 1 through 12 come from families with limited financial resources, each headed by a single parent or guardian or, in some cases, by grandparents or other family members; and Whereas, after a competitive admission process, each Girard student is awarded the equivalent of a $37,000-a-year scholarship for his or her schooling, room and board, books, clothing and other expenses; and Whereas, Girard College's outstanding academic and residential faculty members and dedicated staff provide its students with an intense educational experience, a rich program of extracurricular activities, and a safe and supportive environment that helps them realize their full potential as young scholars and citizens; and Whereas, the college varsity boys basketball team's first-ever state championship in 2009 Pennsylvania A tournament is representative of the school's drive to excel in all fields of endeavor; and Whereas, 98 percent of Girard's graduates are accepted by four-year colleges or universities, and 95 percent of them enroll each year; and
Whereas, Stephen Girard's legacy also includes a distinctive 43-acre campus that includes his personal archives, two museum collections, and Founder's Hall, a National Historic Landmark designed by Thomas U. Walter, the architect who designed the dome of the United States Capitol; and Whereas, Girard College is one of Philadelphia's world-class institutions, a model for philanthropists who have established similar schools elsewhere, and an enduring symbol of American generosity and faith in the opportunities for all to succeed founding. Now, therefore, be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that Council does hereby congratulate Girard College, its outstanding students and alumni, its accomplished academic and residential facility, and its dedicated staff as Girard begins its 161st year, and furthermore celebrate Girard College's distinguished history, its proud record of achievement and service to our city and its promise to keep the vision of Stephen Girard alive for future generations. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Girard College Council as evidence of the sincere sentiments and recognition of this legislative body. Thank you and congratulations to all of you. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the message to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on May 13th, 2009, I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its session on April 30th and May 7th, 2009; and I am submitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution approving the City of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Emergency 9-1-1 2008 Triennial Plan as an amendment to the City's 9-1-1 Plan; and An ordinance authorizing the Park Commission and the Executive Director of Fairmount Park to enter into a lease agreement between the City of Philadelphia as landlord and the Center City District as tenant for a certain parcel of land commonly referred to as Sister Cities Plaza; and An ordinance authorizing Ralph Picket, owner and operator of Duo Brick Oven, located 3900 Chestnut Street; and An ordinance authorizing the National Park Service, owner and operator of the President's House, to operate and maintain a building extension at 530 Market Street; and An ordinance authorizing the creation of a loan or loans to provide funds for and toward various capital municipal purposes; and An ordinance amending Chapter 19-3200, entitled "Keystone Opportunity Zone and Economic Development District," by providing for extensions of the term of benefits for certain properties; and Pursuant to Section 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill No. 090190, 090191, 090246, 090263, 090265, 090294, 090295 and 090296.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and at this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you. On behalf of myself and Councilmember Tasco, I offer one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution recognizing Judge Annette M. Rizzo for her involvement in the ground-breaking Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program and thanking her for her hard work and tireless dedication to families throughout the City of Philadelphia by preventing thousands of mortgage foreclosures and helping thousands of Philadelphians resolve complications regarding their mortgage payments.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a motion on the resolution.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce one bill and two resolutions.
No. I think I told you wrongly, one bill and two resolutions.
Okay. One resolution and two bills. It's hard to add to three, you know.
That's okay. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing Ralph Picket to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 3900 Chestnut Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing certain existing underground improvements owned by the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia to encroach into the rights-of-way of certain streets which are to be dedicated to the City of Philadelphia in the vicinity of South 34th Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 24th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
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 in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance establishing a one way regulation on Belgrade Street, from Ash Street to Pratt Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Bond Committee to sell bonds at public or private negotiated sale, to provide funds toward various capital municipal purposes; providing for appropriations to the Sinking Fund Commission for the payment of such bonds.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have one bill and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sidewalk Sales," by prohibiting sidewalk sales on portions of Broad Street, Venango Street, Tioga Street and Ontario Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution honoring American Heart Association, University of Pennsylvania and private individuals such as Joe Waters for their continuing efforts at training and saving lives with the techniques used in CPR; and reaffirming June 18th, 2009 as "Philadelphia CPR Training Day."
I call for the -- I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the resolution.
A resolution calling on the Pennsylvania Congressional Delegation to support the 2009 DREAM Act, and recognizing the 2009 Federal DREAM Act for the support it provides to the nation's student immigration community.
Thank you, Madam President. I present this resolution on behalf of the members -- at the request of the members of the Youth Commission, and I move for its adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution urging Pennsylvania's Governor and the Chairs of the General Assembly's Appropriation Committees to increase the 2009-10 funding for the Homeowners Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program to adequately assist the rising number of unemployed Pennsylvanians facing foreclosure due to the recession.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution recognizing and celebrating Jon Drummond upon his induction into the Overbrook High School Hall of Fame.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings to examine small business lending in lowand moderate-income and minority neighborhoods within the City of Philadelphia, and to take testimony on new initiatives, including a loan guarantee fund and alternative loan programs.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I introduce one resolution.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution calling upon our state and local leaders to use American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds to create a roadmap that includes solutions that recognize and address workforce and wage inequities and builds opportunities for everyone, not just a select few.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer three bills and one resolution.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area generally bounded by a line located approximately 220 feet north of Cumberland Street, the Delaware River and a line approximately 328 feet south of Berks Street, Beach Street, Richmond Street, Beach Street and Cumberland Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 12-3000 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Use of an Automated Red Light Enforcement System to Prevent Red Light Violations," by authorizing the installation of red light enforcement systems at the intersection of Aramingo Avenue at Castor Avenue.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the National Park Service to construct, own and maintain a building encroachment at the steps of 530 Market Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 31st Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-3200, entitled "Keystone Opportunity Zone and Economic Development District," by providing for extensions of the term of benefits for certain properties.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have three bills and one resolution that should be referred to committee.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by adding certain requirements pursuant to changing of zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Arch Street, 18th Street, Cuthbert Street, 19th Street, pursuant to Section 14-305; and An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled "Miscellaneous," by adding a new Section, entitled "North Central Front Street Special District Controls."
Thank you. The 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 Cecil B. Moore Avenue, 11th Street, Montgomery Avenue and 12th Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution approving the City of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Emergency 9-1-1 2008 Triennial Plan as an amendment to the City's 9-1-1 Plan.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Madam President, I offer one resolution, which is co-sponsored by Councilmembers Goode, Tasco, Green, Jones and Brown.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title.
Madam President, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank of business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Madam President, the Committee of the Whole reports nine bills with a favorable recommendation and three resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee of the Whole, to which was referred Bill No. 090212, entitled "An ordinance to adopt a Capital Program for six Fiscal Years 2010 to 2015 inclusive"; and Bill No. 090213, entitled "An ordinance to adopt a Fiscal 2010 Capital Budget"; and 090214, entitled "An ordinance adopting an Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2010"; and Bill No. 090215, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 10-700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Refuse and Littering,' to increase the amount that be must be paid in response to certain code violation notices"; and Bill No. 090216, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 19-1801 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Authorization of Tax'"; and Bill No. 090217, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'School Tax Authorization,' by amending Section 19-1806, entitled 'Authorization of Realty Use and Occupancy Tax'"; and Bill No. 090220, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 10-1001 of Title 10 of The Philadelphia Code relating to fees charged by the Commissioner of Records by modifying the fees"; and Bill No. 090221, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 10-700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Refuse and Littering,' to require certain businesses and property owners either to pay a fee for City waste hauling or demonstrate that the business or property owner has a private provider of waste and recycling disposable services"; and Bill No. 090244, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 19-2700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Sales and Use Tax and Hotel Occupancy Tax'"; and Resolution No. 090226, entitled "A resolution providing for the approval by the Council of the City of Philadelphia of a Revised Five-Year Financial Plan for the City of Philadelphia covering Fiscal Years 2010 through 2014," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills and resolutions to Council with a favorable recommendation; and Resolution No. 090136, entitled "A resolution appointing Beverly Coleman to the Board of Directors of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority"; and Resolution 090137, entitled "A resolution appointing Rina Cutler to the Board of Directors of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached resolutions to Council with no recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to have first reading this day of the bills just reported from the committee. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All those in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Resolution Nos. 090136, 090137, 090226 will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you. The Committee on Rules reports six bills out with favorable recommendations.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 090127, entitled "An ordinance amending Titles 4 and 14 of The Philadelphia Code by authorizing the Department of Licenses and Inspections to extend the expiration date of certain zoning and/or use registration permits, under certain terms and conditions"; and Bill No. 090190, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by amending Chapter 14-1400, entitled 'Parking and Loading Facilities,' by adding a new subsection providing for bicycle parking"; and Bill No. 090246, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within area bounded by Orthodox Street, Large Street and Adams Avenue"; and Bill No. 090294, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 14-400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Commercial Entertainment District,' by amending Section 14-403 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Procedures for the establishment of a Commercial Entertainment District'"; and Bill No. 090295, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 11th Street, Filbert Street, 8th Street and Market Street"; and Bill No. 090296, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land bounded by Front Street, Lombard Street, 2nd Street and Pine Street, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you. I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 090127, 190, 246, 294, 295 and 296. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will indicate by (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the Committee on Finance.
Madam President, the Committee on Finance reports seven bills and one resolution with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 090321, "An ordinance constituting the Twelfth Supplemental Ordinance to the Restated General Water and Wastewater Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1989"; and Bill No. 090322, entitled "An ordinance constituting the Ninth Supplemental Ordinance to the General Gas Works Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1998; authorizing the City to sell, either at private or public sale, Gas Works Revenue Bonds, Eighth Series"; and Bill No. 090323, entitled "An ordinance constituting the Tenth Supplemental Ordinance to the General Gas Works Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1998; authorizing the City to sell, either at public or private sale, Gas Works Revenue Bonds, Ninth Series"; and Bill No. 090324, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the issuance of one or more series of general obligation bonds to provide funds to refund certain outstanding general obligation bonds of the City of Philadelphia"; and 090325, entitled "An ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2010 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works"; and Bill No. 090350, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'City Funds Deposits, Investments, Disbursements,' by authorizing the City Treasurer to deposit funds in City National Bank"; and Bill No. 090351, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'City Funds Deposits, Investments, Disbursements,' by amending Section 19-201, entitled 'City Depositories,' by authorizing the City Treasurer to deposit funds in TD Bank National Association"; and Resolution No. 090334, entitled "A resolution approving the City's substantial amendment to the Year 34 Consolidated Plan and application to the United States Department of Housing and $21,486,000 in funding for the homelessness prevention services under HUD's Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Rehousing Program," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills and resolution to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills 090321, 090322, 090323, 090325, 090350 and 090351. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from 5/14/09 - STATED - 1ST READING committee, with the exception of Bill No. 090324. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Bill No. 090324 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for our next session of Council. Resolution No. 090334 will be considered at the end of today's Calendar. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committees with the suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. They will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. At this time, I would ask the 5/14/09 - STATED - 2ND READING Chief Clerk to please read any other bills on the First Reading Calendar.
Bill No. 090258, an ordinance amending Section 3-306 and 3-401 of Title 3 ("Air Management Code") of The Philadelphia Code, to eliminate dual licensing and permitting requirements on air contaminant emitting facilities, and to clarify air pollution control standards, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. This bill will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for the purpose of calling up bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar to be considered today.
Thank you, Madam President. Bill No. 090015-A is being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today. An 5/14/09 - STATED - 2ND READING amendment is being offered for Bill 080527. All other bills are being held.
I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of Bill No. 090015-A.
An ordinance amending Section 9-212 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Newsstands," to permit the placement of commercial advertising on newsstands and revise the fee of a newsstand license, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080527.
An ordinance amending Section 14-2007 of The 5/14/09 - STATED - 2ND READING Philadelphia Code, entitled "Historic "Buildings, Structures, Sites, Objects and Districts," to permit the historic designation of public interior portions of buildings and making technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. I see that Councilman Clarke's light is on, and I believe Councilman Green will be offering an amendment. Councilman Green, has your amendment been circulated to all members?
Madam President, I'm offering an amendment to Bill No. 080527. This bill is co-sponsored by Councilmember Greenlee and Councilmember Blondell Reynolds 5/14/09 - STATED - 2ND READING Brown. The amendments were unanimously approved by the City's Planning Commission, including its Chair, Andy Altman, and the City's Historical Commission, including its Chair, who many members know, Sam Sherman. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I have a small interest in this particular bill, as a number of members of the Council, and having had conversation with Councilman Green, I understand that the amendments today probably are not controversial in nature, but I did want to reference today because I did have an opportunity, along with Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, to meet with a number of individuals who represent institutions 5/14/09 - STATED - 2ND READING throughout the City of Philadelphia that would be affected by this bill. They had actually made several recommendations and actually made those recommendations in amendment form. A part of the problem was, both myself and along with the other members of Council were deeply engrossed in the budget issue. The organizations were engrossed in whatever they do. We did not receive the amendments until yesterday. It was my intention to share the amendments with the sponsor and along with other Councilmembers, but as you see, we were a little busy, so I didn't get a chance to do that. So I just wanted to for the record say that there are a number of recommendations by those individuals that would be affected and I would like to share with the sponsor and members of Council before final passage of the bill. I think that they're reasonable, good-sense recommendations, 5/14/09 - STATED - 2ND READING and we would hope that as we move down this line, we have an opportunity to have them adopted or, at a minimum, discussed in a reasonable way. Thank you.
Councilman Green, are you moving for the adoption of your amendments?
Yes, Madam Chair. Just for the record, I'd like to state that the amendment was originally circulated at the end of the summer, then again at the request of Councilman DiCicco, with a memo to all members of Council on April 27th. And I have met with the museums and institutions on numerous occasions. We have incorporated some, but not all of what they are requesting, and at this time, I move for the adoption of the amendment.
It 5/14/09 - STATED - 2ND READING has been moved and seconded that the amendment be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the amendment is adopted. That concludes our Calendar for today. Are there speeches on the part of the minority?
Don't we have a resolution to vote on, homeless funding?
Let me just double-check. I'm sorry. 5/14/09 - STATED - 2ND READING We do. Thank you for calling it to my attention. I think we have more than one. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Resolution No. 090334.
A resolution approving the City's substantial amendment to the Year 34 Consolidated Plan and application to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for approximately $21,486,000 in funding for homelessness prevention services under HUD's Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Rehousing Program.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. Again I will say, that concludes our Calendar for today. Are there speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Yes, Madam President. Our action on the last resolution is a perfect segue to my remarks. On February 17th, 2009, President Obama signed into law the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that seeks to help our nation's citizens during this deep time of economic signed on to receive 10.4 billion in economic stimulus support that includes a minimum list of projects totalling 2.8 billion for our city. Both the Commonwealth and the City have made commitments and released comprehensive plans to reduce energy consumption, green public spaces, expand recycling, invest in transit-oriented development, clean up Superfund sites, upgrade in municipal waste and invest in clean energy. Given our city's 25 percent poverty rate as reflected in our significant unemployment, green-collar jobs are blue-collar jobs in green businesses because they are manual labor jobs in businesses whose products and services directly improve environmental quality. This represents an important new category of workforce opportunities that are known as pathways out of poverty. Why? Because they are relatively high-quality jobs that provide work, living wages and benefits and advancement opportunities. So in closing, Madam President, it is my hope that like Oakland, California, who is far ahead of us on this matter, it's my hope that we as a city will take advantage of this unique opportunity to harness the energy and begin to build what are known as pathways out of poverty workforce and develop a business model in Philadelphia that ultimately makes a difference for our city's unemployment rate and addresses our city's 25 percent poverty rate. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. The day after Thanksgiving I attended my 25th high school reunion. I in 1982, and one of my fondest memories is of student government. I actually served as Treasurer of the Student Association in my last year. And being an elected official in high school had its perks too, like an office. It wasn't really an office, though. It was actually a broom closet with a desk and chairs, but officers had keys, so we had a place to do our work and to hang out. I met a younger kid back then who liked to hang out in the Student Government office. Now I know why. That kid went on to become President of the Student Government at Penn State University. He actually joined my fraternity while I was at Penn and he was at Penn State. He led anti-apartheid protests, as I did at Penn, while he was Penn State. He then went on to Georgetown Law School. But none of this I knew until years later when we were both young public sector. Then we became friends. I've been to his home for cookouts. I've met his wife and kids. His mother has repeatedly whipped me at pinochle. More importantly, I've learned more about the criminal justice system from him than probably anyone else. His name is Seth Williams. On Tuesday, I will cast my vote for the kid who used to hang out at the Student Government office to become our next District Attorney, because I've watched him grow into the right leader with the right vision for criminal justice reform in the 21st century. If I didn't know Seth, I would still be voting for him, but because I do, it will be with pride that I push Button No. 55 on Tuesday, the day we begin to change the criminal justice system for real. Thank you.
Thank you, Madam President. As always, I remind that we have our Partnership for Prescription Assistance table out front for colleagues and your constituents to take advantage of free prescription assistance. Thank you.
Thank you. Are there any other members that would like to be heard? (No response.)
Seeing none, I would remind my colleagues that the meeting scheduled for 1 o'clock today in the Caucus Room has been continued to a further date. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May 21st, 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May 21st at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion is carried. Thank you. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 12:00 p.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on May 14, 2009, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. ______________________________ MICHELE L. MURPHY RPR-Notary Public (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)