COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Thursday, June 8, 2000 10:15 a.m. Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILMAN FRANK J. DICICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN ANGEL L. ORTIZ COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, Chief Clerk VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103 GREETING/INVOCATION P R O C E E D I N G S
Good morning. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will 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 Lorina Marshall-Blake, Associate Pastor of the Vine Memorial Baptist Church. She is here today as the guest of Councilman Clarke. Members and guests will please rise. (All rise.)
I would first come today to say, this is the day the Lord hath made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it, and at what a mighty God we serve. Let us pray. All-wise, all-powerful God, enthroned in heavenly splendor, You who sit high but look low, we come with hears of praise and thanksgiving for this day. We come to give thanks for these Thy people, Your people, who sit here at the seat of Council, representing Your interests, these GREETING/INVOCATION vessels, O, God, that you have chosen to use. O, God, we pray that you would give them wisdom, give them honor, give them glory in their dealings both here, at the heart of City and, throughout land. Give them courage, Lord, give them strength. Show them mercy, O, God, so that they may show mercy. And, God, when difficult times come and difficult decisions have to be made -- and they will -- that these, Your servants, will continue to praise You, in spite of the difficulties, realizing that when we give Him the glory, He gives you peace and joy in return. God, in Your word, You tell to us look out for one another, to be in prayer for one another, and, yes, to bear one another's burdens. And, Lord, when we ask, am I my brother's or sister's keeper? that these, Thy people, will respond with a resounding yes. And, Lord, we thank You that every day is a day of thanksgiving. But most of all, O, God, we thank you this day for the relief and satisfaction of minds and knowing that come with the firm assurance, GREETING/INVOCATION that blessed assurance, that You govern the world. That no matter what may be occurring, O, Lord, whether it's within our schools, our government, our city, our nation, that nevertheless, under Your direction, You, who are wise, good, and omnipotent, that You will, in Your own time, and you promise to make all things work together for the good to those who love You. And, O, Lord, it is for this, in this day this, in this time, in this moment that we give you praise. Let all the saints of God say amen. ALL: Amen.
The Chair thanks Reverend Blake for her very inspiring invocation. Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease, then proceedings resume.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, June 1, 2000. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell. 6/1/00 JOURNAL APPROVAL/LEAVES OF ABSENCE
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of Thursday, June 1, 2000, stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, June 1, 2000, stand approved. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it, the motion carries, and the Journal of Thursday, June 1, 2000, is approved.
The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. There are no requests for leaves of absence on the part of the Majority.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. VISITOR RECOGNITIONS, PRESENTATIONS The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, I believe we have Councilman Longstreth away, and I'm not sure of the status of Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you. At this time, leave will be granted for Councilman Longstreth.
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 this morning. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco. (No response.)
Councilwoman Tasco, your light is on; do you want to be recognize?
Thank you. We are pleased today to welcome Miss Lois Fernandez, founder and president of ODUNDE. Will Councilman Reynolds Brown please come forward to make this presentation, and I would ask Miss Fernandez and those accompanying her to please come and join the Councilwoman at the podium. (Honoree et al. come forward.)
Good morning. Good morning. Last March, we had the great opportunity to enjoy a tradition that was brought to us -- or has been brought to us on an annual basis, I understand, by my colleague Councilman Jim Kenney, in that he shared with us the celebration of St. Patrick's Day. And in having brief comments with him this morning, one comment he made was that one beautiful, unique feature about our country is that we really do get a chance to celebrate our differences. So in that spirit, I'm delighted to introduce to some and present to others the celebration of ODUNDE here in our city and its VISITOR RECOGNITIONS, PRESENTATIONS founder, Miss Lois Fernandez. This is a resolution honoring ODUNDE on the occasion of its 25th anniversary, and Lois Fernandez, President of ODUNDE. Whereas, ODUNDE is an annual African-American holiday festival that celebrates the coming of another year and the opportunity for renewal of African-Americans; and Whereas, the festival began in 1975, modeled after the experiences of Miss Lois Fernandez when she attended the annual African Festival of Oshun held in Oshogbo, Nigeria. Whereas, it is an occasion marked by joy and hope, a joy which is highlighted by a colorful procession to the Schuylkill River, where offerings of fruits and flowers are made to Oshun, the goddess of love and rivers; Whereas, the scope and magnitude of the festival has steadily increased, attendance at the festival has surpassed 300,000 and has earned international recognition and has attracted acclaimed performers; Whereas, ODUNDE has expanded from a one-day event to a year-round organization as VISITOR RECOGNITIONS, PRESENTATIONS ODUNDE, Inc. now serves school-aged children as well as others with cultural programs and activities; and Whereas, throughout the 25-year history, ODUNDE has been a model for promoting, joy togetherness, and understanding to all Philadelphians. Now, therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we honor ODUNDE and its founder, Lois Fernandez, on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the festival. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Lois Fernandez as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. You should know that this proclamation was introduced also by Miss Anna C. Verna, the leadership of our body, W. Wilson Goode, Jr., and Joan Krajewski, and, of course, was supported, endorsed, and sponsored by all the members of the City Council. Congratulations, Miss Lois Fernandez. (Applause.)
The Chair VISITOR RECOGNITIONS, PRESENTATIONS recognizes Miss Fernandez for remarks.
We give praise and thanks to the Creator. We give praise and thanks that we have with us a honored guest, the Chief Araba Agbave, Chief Araba of the world, from Nigeria, West Africa. (Applause.).
We are truly honored and blessed to reach this milestone in our history. We have had many, many difficult roads to travel, but we will be there this Sunday, celebrating this with this city and our people our 25 years of cultural survival on South Street. We want to thank the Council President, who is also our District Councilperson for us here in South Philadelphia, who has been with us and has been with us -- I will take the privilege of calling her "Anna" 'cause I've known her many years -- who has stood besides us with the difficulties we have faced, but she has been there with us. We want to thank Councilman Jim Kenney, who probably doesn't want this, but Jim Kenney came to use behind the scenes and has helped us, VISITOR RECOGNITIONS, PRESENTATIONS 'cause I said the people who don't know said, that's South Philadelphia for you. Se, that's how we hang in South Philadelphia, you know? Yeah. (Laughter.) (Applause.)
And Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, who has been there for us, who knows the struggle and the fight we had when they thought they were going to move us from our homes on South Street and we said, No good. Either you kick us or we kick you, but we stand, and we stayed, and we're still there, 'cause that's our attitude. (Applause.)
We say thank you to Bruce Crawley for being there and for everybody else who has supported us. To my board members who are here, Adrienne Williams, Deborah Morris. To the people who are here -- (unintelligible) Williams, who I grew up with all my life. To Skip, to Ianone, to VISITOR RECOGNITIONS, PRESENTATIONS everyone. To my dear friend Kay Fields, Shongo Bucola (ph.), I give praise and thanks. To my daughter, who is the next generation. As we transition leadership, my daughter, Oshunbumi Fernandez. Her names means "a gift from the goddess of love, Oshun." Truly my gift, my daughter, Oshunbumi. (Applause.) MISS FERNANDEZ: I just want to say thank you. When ODUNDE first started, I was strapped to my mother's back, and now I'm kind of towering her right now. I have learned from ODUNDE over the 25 years that my mother always told me, If you believe in something, it will last. And ODUNDE has lasted for many mayors, many City Councils, and yet, we still stand. And I hope that in the year 2025, that I can be here accepting another resolution and handing it on to my son or my daughter. So all I do is say thank you, thank you. (Applause.)
Council will VISITOR RECOGNITIONS, PRESENTATIONS be at ease.
In the spirit of this celebration, we now invite our performers to please grace us with their performance.
Council will be at ease. I understand we're going to have a photo shot, and then we're going to have a performance? (Performance in celebration of ODUNDE.) (Applause.) (Council proceedings resume.)
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who will make the second presentation. Will Mr. Edmond Notebaert please come forward. (Councilwoman Blackwell and honoree come forward.)
Thank you, Madam President. This is a resolution honoring Edmond F. Notebaert. Whereas, Edmond F. Notebaert became VISITOR RECOGNITIONS, PRESENTATIONS President and Chief Executive Officer of the Children's Hospital Foundation and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia on January 1, 1987; and Whereas, Mr. Notebaert recruited additional internationally-acclaimed physicians and world-renowned scientists and created an infrastructure which evolved from an inpatient hospital to a health system. He expanded the hospital's outpatient clinical activities through the construction of the Richard D. Wood Pediatric Ambulatory Care Center, the opening of eight regional specialty care centers that brought high-quality pediatric and specialty and subspecialty services to children in their own communities, the development of "Kids First," and the establishment of a comprehensive pediatric home-care program; and Whereas, the scope of pediatric services expanded with the acquisition of the Philadelphia Child Guidance Center, a pediatric mental health agency, and the Children's Seashore House, the nation's first pediatric rehabilitation center; and Whereas, Mr. Notebaert's vision and VISITOR RECOGNITIONS, PRESENTATIONS leadership have created the hospital's research enterprise, resulting in the opening of the Leonard and Madeline Abrahmson Pediatric Research Center, home of the Joseph Stokes, Jr. Research Institute, and the expansion of clinical research, including the development of Children's Clinical Research Institute; and Whereas, grant funding from the National Institute of Health has increased fivefold, and the hospital's residency and fellowship programs have expanded as well. Children's Hospital is now the institution of choice for pediatric physicians and training; and Whereas, the hospital continues its historic mission to serve all children within its service area, irrespective of ability to pay. Four primary-care centers now bring skilled primary-care pediatric physicians into underserved areas in West Philadelphia and South Philadelphia. Therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor and commend Edmond F. Notebaert on his outstanding record of achievement as President and Chief Executive Officer of Children's Hospital of VISITOR RECOGNITIONS, PRESENTATIONS Philadelphia and the Children's Hospital Foundation. Resolved further that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Edmond F. Notebaert, further evidencing the sincere sentiments and high esteem of this legislative body. And before we conclude, I wish these words could just jump out at you as to all of the activities that Mr. Notebaert has done and been engaged in for the children in our city and around the world really, really deserve. And I would also like to say that we have begun a new -although now he's advising his successor, he decided it was time to do other things. He is still working hard advising his successor, but he has begun a partnership with the West Philadelphia community in terms of even working on a park. We are working on Malcolm X Park. We will have, thanks to Children's Hospital, a park unlike any in the City of Philadelphia because of the investment of Children's Hospital to make sure that neighborhood children have play equipment and have an opportunity to enjoy all of the fruits of VISITOR RECOGNITIONS, PRESENTATIONS life. And these are things done that Mr. Notebaert has done, even after he formally stepped down and didn't have to do. Another thing I'd like to mention is that if go in Children's Hospital any day and you see him walking through the hallways, the person who's pushing trash can says, "Hi, Ed," that there's not this formal thing where they're afraid to touch him. They love him, there's a friendly atmosphere because he is always secure enough in his mission to include everyone. And that says a lot for kind of person he is, his commitment to people, and he can never be replaced.
Let me conclude by saying, certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 4th day of May, 2000. It is certainly signed by our President, introduced by Councilwoman Krajewski and myself, and sponsored by each and everyone of you, for which we say thank you. )
The Chair congratulates Mr. Notebaert and recognizes him for VISITOR RECOGNITIONS, PRESENTATIONS remarks.
Thank you, Council President Verna, members of City Council and my special friend Councilwoman Blackwell. We've enjoyed a lot of good times together, we've brought a lot of progress to the health of the citizens of our community, in particular those in West and South Philadelphia. I've appeared in these chambers on many occasions, but this is the most pleasant opportunity that I've had to appear before you. All the other times have been in presenting our programs to build those buildings that you referred to. It's a humbling opportunity for me to be here before you and receive this honor. And all I can say is from the depths of my heart, I thank you very much, and I've enjoyed my association with Councilwoman Blackwell and all of the members of City Council. Thank you. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease, then COMMUNICATIONS proceedings resume.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the clerk. The clerk will 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 today, I have signed the following bills that were passed by Council at its session on June 1, 2000: Bill No. 000214, 000215 and 000213. And I am transmitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body the following: An ordinance granting permission to RCN Telecom Services of Philadelphia, Inc. to construct, own, operate, maintain, replace and remove a telecommunications system in, over and under the public rights-of-way and streets of the City of Philadelphia to operate and maintain a video programming service over such INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS telecommunications system, pursuant to the provisions governing open-video systems in the Telecommunications Act of 1996, under certain terms and conditions paragraph.
The messages will be printed in the Journal. The clerk will read any other communications in her possession.
The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of their introduction. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS consideration of resolutions at the time of their introduction. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill on behalf of the Administration and one resolution on your behalf.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance granting permission to RCN Telecom Services of Philadelphia to construct, own, operate, maintain, replace, and remove telecommunications system in, over, and under the streets of the City of Philadelphia.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
And a resolution honoring the Good Shepherd Parish on their 75th anniversary.
I move 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. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning, I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
One bill? Councilwoman, we were told you had a resolution also.
Just one bill? The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance naming the Criminal Justice Center, located at 13th and Filbert Streets "The Justice James T. McDermott Judicial Center" and authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to take appropriate action to INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS carry out this ordinance.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
Madam Chairwoman, I'm sorry. I do have one resolution.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution honoring the memory of General Frederick Wilhelm Von Steuben and designating the area of 22nd Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway as the Steuben (unintelligible), in celebration of the 30th Annual Steuben Day Parade to be held on Saturday, September 23, 2000.
I move 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 INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution honoring the Frankford High School Varsity Baseball Team and Coach Bob Peffle on winning the Public League Baseball Championship.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
A resolution commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Korean War and the efforts of the Korean War Veterans Chapter No.'s 1509 and 38.
Madam President, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the resolution has INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS been adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the third resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority a deed located in the 7th, 18th, and 19th Wards of he City of Philadelphia.
Madam President, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS offer one resolution.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution congratulating and commending the American Heart Association on its national initiative, Operation Heartbeat.
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 those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two resolutions. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution honoring the Northwest Interfaith Movement on the occasion of its 30th anniversary and celebrating contribution to both religious and secular causes within the Philadelphia community.
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 those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion has been carried. Councilman DiCicco, do you want to be recognized? INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
Yes. I'll be absent from the chamber for about five minutes, and I would like to be recorded as voting yes on all bills and resolutions.
And you have no bills or resolutions to be introduced today?
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution introduced by Councilwoman Miller.
A resolution in support of the Philadelphia June Teeth 2000 observance and the national June Teeth Holiday Campaign.
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. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two bills, one on behalf of you, Councilman Kenney, and myself.
The clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2800 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority Tax on Wages and Net Profits," by exempting certain stock options from the tax, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the second bill.
An ordinance designating the picnic area located within the 29th Street and Chambers Avenue recreation fields and facilities INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS as the Van R. Thomas Memorial Picnic Area.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution memorializing Tito Puente and recognizing his lifetime achievements and contributions as a world-renowned Latin jazz musician and band leader.
The Chair INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
Madam Chair, I move 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. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. Councilman DiCicco has no bills or resolutions to be introduced today. And the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
The clerk INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia a deed located in the 28th, 29th, 32nd, 37th, and 47th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, I have one privileged resolution today.
The clerk INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution requesting that the Pennsylvania State Legislature require that the flag of the United States of America and the flag of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania be flown at half-mast from all State buildings, including the State Capitol, when any law enforcement officer, firefighter, paramedic, or EMT in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania dies in the line of duty.
I move for the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. BILLS ON FIRST-READING CALENDAR
It is my understanding that we don't have any reports from committees. We will then now consider bills on our first-reading calendar, and the clerk will please read the first bill.
Bill No. 000221, an ordinance creating the Networks Tax Increment Financing District and approving the project plan of the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to execute documents and do all things necessary to carry out the intent of this ordinance.
Bill No. 000260, an ordinance creating the Silver City Tax Increment Financing District and approving the project plan of the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to execute documents and to do all things necessary to carry out the intent of this ordinance.
The Chair agrees. BILLS ON FIRST-READING CALENDAR
Bill No. 000314, an ordinance amending Chapter 10-600 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Places Prohibited Conduct" by prohibiting smoking in certain public places and in the workplace, with certain exceptions, and by repealing current provisions set forth in Section 10-602 regulating smoking, all under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair agrees. The bills just read by the clerk will be placed on our second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up bills on the second-reading and final-passage calendar.
Thank you, Madam President. Today Bill No.'s 000212, 000222, 000223, 000179, 000081, 000258, 000280, 000345, 000317, 000318, and 000320 are called up for second reading and final passage.
Thank you. SECOND-READING CALENDAR - BILL 000222 The clerk will please read the title Bill No. 000221.
An ordinance creating the West Chestnut Retail Tax Increment Financing District and approving the project plan of the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to execute documents and do all things necessary to carry out the intent of this ordinance.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. A majority of the members of Council having voted in SECOND-READING CALENDAR - BILL 000222 the affirmative, the bill passes. I'm sorry. Councilman Goode, do you wish to be recognized?
Oh, I'm sorry. The record will reflect the vote on that bill is 15 ayes and 1 nay. And the majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 000222.
An ordinance creating the Schmidts Plaza Tax Increment Financing District and approving the project plan of the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to execute documents and do all things necessary to carry out the intent of this ordinance.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? SECOND-READING CALENDAR - BILL 000222 The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 1. The majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 000223.
An ordinance creating the South Ninth Retail Tax Increment Financing District and approving the project plan of the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to execute documents and do all things necessary to carry out the intent of this ordinance.
This bill having been read on two different days, the SECOND-READING CALENDAR - BILL 000222 question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 1. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The clerk will please read Bill No. 000179.
An ordinance amending Section 12-2809 of the Philadelphia Code by increasing the civil penalties for violations of Section 12-1120, which prohibits a person from leaving parked any vehicle not being cable of being moved under its own power.
The bill SECOND-READING CALENDAR - BILL 000222 having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called up is Bill No. 000081.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code and adding new requirements to allow for preservation of historically significant buildings.
This bill having been read on two different days, the SECOND-READING CALENDAR - BILL 000222 question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16 the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called up for consideration is Bill No. 000258.
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 Sovereign Bank, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill SECOND-READING CALENDAR - BILL 000222 having been read two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16 the nayes 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes.
The next bill being called up for consideration is Bill No. 000280.
An ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2000 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works, including the supplying of funds to be obtained in connection therewith and SECOND-READING CALENDAR - BILL 000222 rejecting the forecast for Fiscal Year 2001 through 2005.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16 the nays are 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill being called for consideration is Bill No. 000345.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2001 within the Grants Revenue Fund from the Director SECOND-READING CALENDAR - BILL 000222 of Finance - Provision for Other Grants to the Mayor's Office of Housing and Community Development.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 000317.
An ordinance authorizing the McDonald's Corporation to construct and SECOND-READING CALENDAR - BILL 000222 maintain an electrified marquee and a three-dimensional icon attached to the building, 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 clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. Bill No. 000318 will be called up next.
An ordinance granting permission to PECO Energy Company, a Pennsylvania corporation, and its successors, assigns, and SECOND-READING CALENDAR - BILL 000222 contractors to construct, install, maintain and operate, use, repair, replace, or remove a wireless communications system under and across the public rights-of-way of the City of Philadelphia, 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 clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The final bill to be called for SECOND-READING CALENDAR - BILL 000222 consideration is Bill No. 000320.
An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance (Bill No. 990305), approved June 24, 1999, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of Philadelphian No. 120 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Carlyle Street from Oxford Street to Cecil B. Moore Avenue, by extending the time for compliance with the conditions stated therein."
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. SPEECHES The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. This concludes of calendar.
Are there any speeches on the part of the Minority? (No speeches on the part of the Minority.)
Are there any speeches on the part of the Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. We all know that much has taken place this week in the area of education, and one thing that I paid particular attention to were the public hearings provided by the School Board. And I now need to register where I am since this is an issue that I especially care about. We all know, and the fact is, that the majority of the children in our city attend the Philadelphia public schools, and we also know that SPEECHES as recently as a year ago, when the voters were asked what they perceived to be the number-one issue facing the City, it was the improvement of public education. So I'm here to say, and I state, that Philadelphia's place as a world-class city is directly linked to our ability to produce well-educated citizens. We know without question that for the first time in almost decades, we have a committed mayor, we have what I believe to be a committed Council, and we know for sure that we have a new talented, technically astute School Board that is doing all they can to craft a solution around school funding, and I want to give them my vote of confidence for the extraordinary progress they have made so far. Though far from perfect, the recent "negotiated deal" that the Mayor and the School District crafted for us is, indeed, a short-term strategy to help us get through the next year, and we also know that it's not a silver bullet. Every member of this Council and I understand that this negotiated arrangement in no way solves the long-term problems. And I'm of the opinion that SPEECHES we really do need to seize the moment over the next 12 months and work closely with members of the legislature to come up with a thoughtful, long-term solution. For the first time this week, and most notably again yesterday, I felt what many of my colleagues have experienced over the past 12 years: frustration on what is not happening with regards to funding in our public schools. And until Philadelphia children get $12,000 per-unit cost -- since, right now, they only $6900 per-pupil cost -- all the other arguments for me are not meaningful. Once we have equity in funding, then I believe a number of the arguments that I hear for me have meaning. So I support every single effort that has been put on the table to improve the quality of education and the funding crisis currently in our city. In the Mayor's negotiations with the Governor, he pledged $20 million in local funding in addition to the District's 30 million in reductions. I am prepared to work with this Council and the Mayor to identify the necessary funds. SPEECHES Given a thousand choices on how to spend money in this city, one of the most important ways we can spend it is on the education of kids in this city. So I call on my colleagues, I call on your leadership over the next 12 months, 'cause I'm sure it will take that to bring us to the table and keep us at the table, to come up with a long-term solution. So we have to seize the moment because if we don't, we'll be right back at this place next year. If we ask any business leader, what is the greatest business he or she can make to his company? the CEO of that company will tell you it's the investment in the company's human capital. So in closing, what is the greatest investment we can make for the future of this city? The short answer for me is, the children of this city. We need to do all we can to raise and find the money, and some proposals have been put on the table to meet the crises that we're in. I support the proposals that are on the table, and I wanted to state that for the record.
Thank you, SPEECHES Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Thank you, Madam President. I think the sentiments just expressed by Councilwoman Reynolds Brown are sentiments that, in general, all members of Council -
I'll move it up further. Maybe that will do it. But I think we all agree that there's a great deal of work to be done, but they often say that the devil is in the details, and that's what we're going to be struggling with. I wanted to comment on what I think is something that I wish did not occur, and that is the news about the Fire Department and the treatment of a woman firefighter. I think that the people of Philadelphia are getting increasingly disturbed by the apparent unfair treatment of the young woman who was one of pioneers in the Fire Department, a department which, until very recently, has been almost an SPEECHES exclusive bastion of male presence. I think it gives the City of Philadelphia a very bad appearance, and there also seems to be a great deal of substance to the charges being made about the unfair treatment. And I just wish that Philadelphia and all of its leadership people would decide to deal very fairly with all minorities, including women, so that the constant tales of unfair treatment come to an end. I don't understand, frankly, how it happens that there are so few women in the Fire Department compared, for example, to the Police Department. And I just think it's very important that this issue be considered seriously by the City Administration. I don't think the process ought to be played out in the courts, but apparently, that's been the only way for this young woman to seek to obtain fair treatment. So I'm just hoping the City pays a great deal of attention and makes sure that this doesn't happen again. To the friends from Chinatown who are here, even though City Council pays no official SPEECHES attention to you because you're not on the order today, we want you to know that you're welcome, and the next stage in the City Council aspect is a hearing on the 20th of June, at 2 o'clock, on the question of whether there ought to be, and if so, to what extent, public financing for the stadiums. You're all invited to attend. It's a hearing by the Committee of the Whole of the City Council. So don't feel that people are ignoring you when they don't reefer to you today because the next official item will take place on June 20th. Thank you very much, Madam President.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. Just in regards to the comments made by Councilman Cohen about the lawsuit in the Fire Department. I am in no way making any judgment on the issues surrounding this particular case. I don't know as much about it, I haven't followed SPEECHES the case day-to-day. All I know is what I read in the newspaper, and I certainly wasn't there when the instance took place. But there's one thing I think that's very important to remember: Regardless of what dispute you may have with your employer, with your fellow employees in any other regard, you always have to go on the run. You have to go on the run when you are called as a firefighter. Male, female, black or white, Hispanic or Asian, it doesn't matter; when you are called to leave that station for a life-threatening emergency or for a fire, I don't care if the guy allegedly leaves in the rescue squad without you, you find a cab, you walk, you get to the run. There's no excuse that I can see or have ever heard for anyone missing a run unless they were injured or couldn't get to work. But once that calls goes out, whether it's a firefighter or a police officer -- you can dispute and determine your arguments later -- but you have to leave the fire station, you have to go in the rescue squad, you have to get on the engine truck or the ladder company, and you cannot miss SPEECHES the run. Because if we get into a situation where employee-employer disputes in the fire and police departments can be settled by the person refusing to go on a job or go on the run, we're going to be in big trouble. I don't know what the outcome of this case is going to be. Again, I'm not making a judgment as to whether she was mistreated or treated unfairly, I'm not taking sides with Commissioner Hairston, but all I know is, if you're a sworn firefighter or officer in this city and you're called, I don't care who you're arguing with, who you're mad at, you better get on the engine, in the car, and do your job. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I actually agree with the comments made both by Councilman Cohen and Councilman Kenney with regard to the firefighter situation. I would only add to that dialogue, SPEECHES Madam President, that, yes, when the call is made, you are, by your sworn duty, obligated to make the run. But one of the issues that has arisen in this particular case is, notwithstanding what happened and what the firefighter did or did not do, either by staying behind or the officer who left his partner -- at least that's his testimony as we've read it in the newspaper, the other issue that's been raised here is, was the firing the appropriate action by the Fire Commissioner? There are reports, Madam President, that other people in different situations have not made the call. Councilman Kenney is absolutely correct: when the call goes out, you have to take the run. But I think it is fairly clear that this is not the first person who did not make a run for some particular reason. And in the past, those situations have been handled differently. That becomes a central portion of this entire case. We'll wait and see what happens. As the Councilman said, I'm not going to make a judgment about what happened. I was not there, I don't know the intricacies of the Fire Department. But one of the fundamental issues SPEECHES here is fairness and what has been done in the past and how things are handled, and was the firing action the appropriate action under the circumstances? Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Certainly, I agree with what has been said. I guess it's been about a year ago when the issue first came up, and we tried to intercede and tried to check on it. And, as has been said, the issue is not simple, because part of the allegations are that the firewoman in question was treated differently than her male counterparts, which would deal with gender and race underlying questions, that she was not the only one involved but she was the only one singled out. And not only that, as we all know, when it went to the Board, the Board upheld her being able to remain. So there are a lot of issues involved in this case that need to be considered. And, certainly, we applaud all of those SPEECHES who are fighting to bring it to life. We are hopeful that in the end, that all of the attention paid to it will clarify the situation, make sure that it doesn't happen, and that all people in all situations are treated fairly. Thank you.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen. (No response.)
Councilman Cohen, you're light's on. Did you want to be recognized?
Yes. I just wanted to mention that in addition to the facts in the given case, one glaring fact stands out, and that's the small number of female employees in the Fire Department. That to me cries out for an explanation. I cannot understand why the percentage is so small, and it's within that framework that this case arises. Thank you.
Thank you. ADJOURNMENT Are there any other speeches on the part of the Majority? (No further speeches on the part of the Majority.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that Council be adjourned until Thursday, June 15, 2000, 10 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Council stand adjourned until Thursday, June 15, 2000. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion is carried. (Adjourned at 11:15 a.m.) C E R T I F I C A T E I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Thursday, June 8, 2000, were reported fully and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of same. RE: STATED MEETING __________________________________, JOSEPHINE CARDILLO, Registered Professional Reporter