Committee Hearing, May 9, 2009

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA2 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE3 - - -4 Room 400, City Hall5 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Saturday, May 9, 20096 10:25 a.m. 7 - - - 8 9 PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA10 COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE11 COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN WILLIAM GREENLEE12 COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY13 COUNCILWOMAN MARIA QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO14 15 BILLS 090212, 090213, 090214, 090215, 090218, 090219, 090220 and 09022116 RESOLUTION 090226 17 18 19 20 - - -21 22 V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services23 Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 60024 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.267025 2 1

Good2 morning, everyone. This is a continued3 public hearing of the Committee of the4 Whole.5 We're going to try to lower the6 noise, because it's too much competition.7 Our first witness this morning8 will be Tracey Gordon.9 (Witness approached witness10 table.)11

Good12 morning.13

Good morning. How14 are you?15 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:16 They're going to lower that noise.17 Please proceed. Identify yourself for18 the record first.19

Okay. My name is20 Tracey Gordon. 23 Thank you all for coming. 1 I just want to give you just a2 little brief history of my residency in3 Southwest Philadelphia. I was able --4 I'm a single parent of four, and I was5 able to purchase my home in 1994, a row6 house on a very beautiful block. I was7 the first to integrate the area. 9 People would get up and sweep the front10 of they properties, mow they lawns. It11 just was automatic. 13 I group up in West14 Philadelphia, and I'm in my upper 40's,15 and I remember on Saturdays the neighbors16 just would clean up. This was just17 something that we did. And so around18 about 1998, the population moved out of19 Philly, for whatever reason. 1 because I noticed that people wasn't2 mowing they lawns, and I didn't know what3 to do about it, because at one point I'm4 living on a beautiful block and everybody5 is mowing they lawns and then four years6 later, you know, when Irish Catholics7 move out and then I have a different8 population moving in of African Americans9 and now we have a big influx of Africans10 from a diaspora are moving in and there's11 a lot of rentals that's coming, and I'm12 noticing that people aren't mowing they13 lawns and sweeping and everything. 16 And long story short, I've been17 able to maintain the quality of life in18 my block. 19 We won the Philadelphia More Beautiful20 Award in 19, I believe, '99, and then we21 won just last year Keeping Philadelphia22 Beautiful Award just for having a nice23 block. 2 So it's been a fight. It3 really has been a fight. There's a lot4 of violence here, hours that I'm doing,5 and I feel almost defeated. But I can't6 be defeated because I can't afford to7 move. 19 You know, this was your tire. Why would20 you leave this tire here? I had the21 kids -- we had the first clean-up and22 they gathered over 27 tires just in my23 two-block radius. 6 And then when the Commissioner Clarena7 Tolson testified that she hasn't seen a8 problem with the elimination of tire9 removal and elimination of street10 cleaning and also bulk trash, she said11 she hasn't seen that as a problem. I'm12 trying to figure out, what neighborhood,13 one, does she live in. 14 So it may not be a problem in upper15 Wynnefield, but some parts of Wynnefield16 it is. 19 We live in row houses, so we20 live next door to each other. 8 Another quick thing I wanted to9 say, the BRT assessments and the10 nightmare that's going on in Philly, it's11 going to be very hard to assess my12 property, because my property value -- I13 have no abandoned properties. The last14 house just sold for 125, but within a15 block and a half, you couldn't give one16 of the houses away. 24 They are not registering. 1 to call on a property on my block because2 the window is just out and he's just3 totally negligent. I called Marianne,4 looked it up, come to find out he's5 renting a single-family home, he made it6 into three apartments. 9 How are people allowed to break10 a house into -- a single-family home,11 break it in and then rent it and then12 register? That's where a lot of our13 money could come from, too. 1 approve. I think Mayor -- Governor2 Rendell -- Resolution 090365, and it's a3 resolution approving into law Abandoned4 and Blighted Property Conservatorship5 Act, HB 2188. I think this is a good6 idea. The only problem that I see with7 it possibly -- an addendum should be put8 in here -- is, we don't want the slum9 lords to buy to get these properties,10 because the slum lords tend to have the11 money, and then they buy the properties12 and then they rent it and it becomes like13 a nightmare, because what's happening in14 Philadelphia is, they're doing a lot of15 piling on in Southwest, because the16 Africans from the diasporas, the ones17 that have the money, are renting property18 and then they're putting like 40 people19 in a house. That's how the kids got20 burned down right there on Elmwood21 Avenue. 23 It was on CNN, because they piled -- they24 didn't have no stairs.

2 So I was just saying that I3 feel very -- I'm very upset and I feel4 very bad living in Philadelphia now,5 because it's filthy dirty, and most of us6 aren't filthy dirty, but what -- I sweep7 my whole block every week. That's just8 something I do. But is it one or two9 individuals' responsibility to keep the10 City clean? 13 They're not collecting the14 fines. I looked it up. 2007 data shows15 that they only collected a third,16 one-third, of the penalties that they got17 from the fines of people who neglecting18 they properties. The other two-thirds19 never got collected. Why? 1 patronage jobs over there. 8 So I just wanted to come here,9 take my time on a Saturday --10 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:11 Tracey, thank you. 16

Yeah.17

I18 want you to know that the Administration19 is trying to make the CLIP program20 citywide.21 Further, you mentioned about a22 neighbor putting trash out on a Sunday23 and it's not collected until Monday or24 Tuesday. Then I think it behooves you to25 12 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 call the sanitation officer in the police2 district to have that person cited and3 let them understand that they're not4 allowed to do that.5

Well, that works,6 but getting down to the rental, you cite7 the property owner, not the renter. So8 the renter don't care, because they're9 not getting cited. The property owner,10 who lives in Florida or down south, is11 not there and we're not collecting the12 money. So they're just say, Oh,13 whatever. They throwing the tickets14 away.15 I think we should increase the16 citing or whatever, but, like you said,17 it's another day. I just want to say18 that I'm just not very proud of our city.19 Like Mayor Nagin from New Orleans said,20 that it's a filthy mess. We have to come21 up with a solution about the trash.22 Thank you.23

Thank24 you so much.25 13 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 Are there any questions or2 comments from members of the Committee?3 (No response.)4 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:5 Again, Tracey, thank you, and thank you6 for all the work that you do.7 MR. McPHERSON: Our next8 witness is Cathy Scott.9 (Witness approached witness10 table.)11

Good morning --12

Good13 morning.14

-- Madam President15 Verna. I just want to point out that16 there is a proofreading error in my17 testimony and some of the millions were18 left out.19

Oh,20 okay.21

So we'll submit22 some revisions to it, but as I go23 through, I'll be citing millions.24

Very25 14 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 well.2

Good morning,3 President Verna and members of City4 Council. My name is Catherine Scott and5 I am President of AFSCME District Council6 47. 8 As we all are aware,9 Philadelphia, like the rest of the10 country, faces many challenges over the11 next few years. 17 Last year, the Mayor said that18 two issues were driving the budget19 crisis, the investment performance of the20 Pension Fund and the reduction in the21 business privilege tax receipts. There22 appeared to be very little analysis of23 the City's taxing policies and City24 services. 1 "rebalanced," end quote, budget was2 focused on halting planned tax cuts and3 cutting City services. 8 Unfortunately, when the Mayor9 presented this FY 2010 budget, it became10 clear that everything was not on the11 table. Increased sales and property12 taxes were on the table. Cutting13 employee jobs and benefits were on the14 table. 16 What wasn't on the table was an17 honest discussion of our taxing policies18 which got Philadelphia into this fiscal19 crisis. Talking about the historic20 underfunding by the City of its pension21 plan and what would be an honorable way22 to address resolving the issue was not on23 the table. 3 For more than a decade, the4 City has pursued a plan to reduce both5 wage and business taxes, but I will limit6 my remarks concerning the cumulative7 effect to the period FY 2000 through FY8 2009. 2 million. 2511 billion. As I understand it, these12 reductions are based on the premise that13 they will stem the tide of loss of14 residents and businesses. I would ask15 the Administration and City Council to16 define what success is. 19 What we do know is that basic20 City services are being reduced and at an21 alarming rate. 1 year. Also, we know that tax reductions2 do not work in attracting businesses and3 residents unless services do not4 decrease. We know that City services are5 being significantly reduced. Library6 services are the most obvious, but there7 are many others. 13 District Council 47 has made14 many suggestions about raising revenue,15 collecting money which is owed and saving16 money which the City can ill afford to17 waste. 18 First, the City could increase19 its cash flow by making payments more20 taxpayer friendly. It should stop21 charging a fee to pay bills by credit22 card. It should permit taxpayers who opt23 to do so to pay their real estate taxes24 on a monthly basis. 5 Two, the City is owed in excess6 of $400 million in back taxes. It should7 develop an aggressive plan to correct8 what is owed and identify what is9 uncollectible. What is uncollectible10 should be written off, and it should11 collect what is collectible. 16 Third, the City, with the First17 Judicial District, should consider18 releasing non-violent sentenced offenders19 to probation with the appropriate20 rehabilitation needed. This would reduce21 prison overcrowding, unsafe working22 conditions and costs by more than $2023 million a year. 5 The City should cease6 contracting out, especially where it is7 more expensive to contract out than hire8 City employees. For example, the City9 could save over $12 million per year in10 the Health Department alone by hiring11 Civil Service employees to do work12 presently contracted out. City Council13 could transfer out of Class 200 to Class14 100 the amount of these contracts, which15 would force the Administration to act on16 this issue. 1 permits and other licenses with2 guaranteeing that businesses have3 business licenses and that they are4 current on their taxes. 8 Six, the City loses almost $1009 million per year in revenue presently10 because non-profit companies are exempted11 from paying real estate taxes for12 property which they own. It should13 develop a plan to lobby the state14 Legislature to permit Payment in Lieu of15 Taxes, PILOTs, for non-profits. 5 million per year.

2 These are a few of the3 suggestions our union has made to the4 Administration and City Council members5 to raise revenue, collect revenue more6 effectively or save money. 13 These draconian proposals would place the14 balancing of the City budget on the backs15 of its workers. 1 needed. In his budget, the Mayor listed2 $25 million annual savings from the3 employee benefits. When asked, the City4 stated that District Council 47's portion5 was three and a half to $4 million6 annually. 13 When asked what savings the14 City would achieve from its proposals, on15 each item the City stated it has not16 costed it out and it would have to get17 back to us. 18 I commend City Council members19 for asking probing, focused and20 thoughtful questions of department heads21 as they presented their budgets. 1 important tax policy decisions about who2 funds City services and what are the3 appropriate levels of services. 25 percent, which would cost6 $165 for a person making $50,000 a year,7 be off limits? 1540 percent, which costs $15410 for a business grossing $100,000 a year,11 be off limits? 17 Our members who work for the18 City or the First Judicial District are19 all City residents. As taxpayers, voters20 and consumers of City services, we have21 an interest in the financial health of22 the City as well as the City's commitment23 to its residents. 1 officials expressing their concerns. So2 your budget choices will say what your3 values are. 10

Thank11 you very much, Ms. Scott.12 (Applause.)13

One14 moment, Ms. Scott, please.15 At this time, the Chair16 recognizes Councilman Jones.17

Thank you,18 Madam President.19 I would be remiss if I didn't20 say to my colleagues that are mothers21 happy Mother's Day, and the gift that I22 will give you is that I will ask few23 questions because of the volume of people24 that are here today, but I would be25 25 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 remiss if I didn't take advantage of the2 opportunity to talk to Ms. Scott.3 First, I would say and ask the4 same questions I asked District Council5 33 yesterday when they testified, and6 first say thank you for you and your7 members working with Council to give us8 good information so that we could ask the9 probing questions and not just take10 everything from the management side and11 point of view, but from the workforce12 side of the people who actually have to13 implement the budgets that we pass, and14 that was very helpful to me as a15 freshman, and I shared that with all of16 my colleagues on Council.17 Secondly, I guess I would18 ask -- you raise some interesting points19 in your testimony. One of the statistics20 that's always given us is the City's21 population loss versus the size of City22 government, and in your testimony, you23 kind of refute that. Could you elaborate24 on that?25 26 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1

Yes. As a matter2 of fact, we had a researcher look into3 that assertion that has been going on for4 a long time, that the City workforce is5 not shrinking and the population is6 shrinking and, therefore, the City has to7 right-size its number of employees. And,8 clearly, the number of City employees9 that are providing basic departmental10 services is shrinking and has continued11 to shrink. One of the things that I12 think frequently is overlooked is that13 the City is both a county and a city, and14 when we look at the functions that are15 being provided and the increases, they16 are really county functions. If you look17 at the increase in departments, it's the18 Department of Human Services, which is a19 county function, Mental Health and Mental20 Retardation area is a county function. I21 would argue that the Prison System is a22 county function. So the basic City23 services clearly are shrinking, and I24 think former Managing Director Goldsmith25 27 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 laid that out very clearly.2 What we see the increases in3 are things that are generally funded by4 state and federal government money. You5 know, the state funds the majority of the6 Department of Human Services. The Mental7 Health is funded mainly by federal and8 state money. Unfortunately, the Prisons9 is being completely carried by the City,10 and that was one of the reasons why we11 addressed some ways of saving money at12 the Prison, because we think that the13 policy for the Prisons is really wrong to14 be sending all these people to prison --15 (Applause.)16

-- as opposed to17 having them in the community and trying18 to deal with their problems.19

Are you20 familiar with the concept of community21 courts, and do you support that?22

Absolutely.23

I just24 wanted it on the record.25 28 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1

Absolutely. Yes.2 As a person who formerly worked at the3 Prisons before I became a full-time4 employee of the union, I know very well5 that Prisons are really not meeting the6 needs of people that we're sending to7 prison.8

And,9 finally, you made a number of suggestions10 by way of cost savings that the City11 could realize if we implemented them.12 Has there been an ongoing dialogue with13 the Administration about where those14 savings are and whether they are, quote,15 "valid" and whether they could be16 implemented? Has there been that kind of17 working group, if you would?18

We have presented19 this information to the Administration.20 I wouldn't say there's an ongoing21 dialogue. I think that there is22 tremendous resistance on the part of the23 Administration to doing this.24 For example, we have had25 29 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 meetings with the Health Department, the2 Commissioner, Deputy Mayor Schwarz.3 We've talked to the Managing Director.4 It's even been raised with the Mayor5 about the savings that could happen in6 the Health Department, and they7 acknowledge that it is more expensive to8 pay contract workers than City employees.9 However, they have taken no action to do10 that.11 They also acknowledge -- and I12 did not put this in the testimony -- that13 in addition to the salaries and other14 administrative expenses that they would15 save, the City pays the malpractice16 insurance of physicians that are on17 contract. If they were City employees,18 the City would not be paying that19 malpractice insurance and would be --20 again, that's an additional saving.21 We have raised with the22 Department also the idea of having23 physicians' assistants and nurse24 practitioners, and the City does not even25 30 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 have physicians' assistants in their2 Medical Evaluation Unit where they give3 physicals to people returning -- either4 being hired or returning to work from5 medical leave.6

There was an7 analysis that I saw that showed how we8 could actually save money by hiring the9 physician versus the situation where we10 have a contractual relationship with a11 doctor who has a relationship with a12 hospital during the day.13

Yes.14

And is it a15 cause and effect that therefore we have16 three-month, six-month waits to see a17 doctor? I'm wondering who is watching18 and analyzing that kind of cause and19 effect.20

I don't really21 think there is analysis going on. The22 amount of money that could be saved by23 having City-employed physicians as24 opposed to contract physicians, that's --25 31 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 and other contract workers. It's not2 just physicians. There is a lot of3 contract now in the Health Department.4 But to then not use professionals that5 the state has increased their ability to6 perform more work because they've7 expanded what physicians' assistants and8 nurse practitioners can do without having9 a physician there, for the City to not10 take advantage of this and have the11 waiting list that they have at the health12 centers, it's ridiculous. It really is.13

Thank you,14 Madam President.15

Thank16 you.17 Ms. Scott, I don't know if18 you're in a position to tell me how many19 doctors we have working at the health20 centers.21

City doctors? I22 don't believe there are any.23

How24 about the doctors who were --25 32 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1

The contracted2 doctors?3

Yes.4

I'm not exactly5 sure, but we could get those numbers. I6 know we did an analysis of that. They're7 all contracted doctors.8

And9 if my memory serves me correctly, I think10 last year during our budget hearings most11 of the doctors that were working at the12 health centers did have waivers because13 they do not live in the City.14

That's correct.15

I16 think your suggestion is a very good one17 and I think that many of us will be very18 happy to look into that.19

Thank you very20 much.21 (Applause.)22

Thank23 you.24 The Chair recognizes Councilman25 33 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 Goode.2

Point of3 information.4

Yes.5 The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.6

Madam7 President, I believe I recollect the8 Health Commissioner stating that there9 were four full-time doctors, that they10 made 96,000, where the part-time doctors11 made one hundred and --12

25.13

One hundred14 and twenty-five thousand. So there are,15 I believe, four doctors, not including16 the Health Commissioner, that are --17

I don't believe18 that they are -- they may be managerial19 people.20

Yeah, and21 they're doctors.22

Well, yes, but23 they're not necessarily providing direct24 service to people.25 34 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1

That could2 be, but there are -- again, I'm doing3 this from memory. I think there are4 four.5

Oh, I'm sorry.6 There are four. There are four7 physicians, Civil Service physicians.8

See, we9 listen to this testimony.10

Yes. But -- yes,11 and hiring contract doctors is much more12 expensive. However, the City could also13 have a waiver for Civil Service doctors14 just like they have -- as a matter of15 fact, those doctors probably have16 waivers.17

I'm18 sure they do.19

And if I could just20 add, contract employees are not required21 to complete any of the disclosure22 information that City employees are23 required. In addition to the -- I know24 people talk about the residency issue,25 35 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 but many of our members are required to2 file state financial disclosure forms3 because of the work that they do. I'm4 not suggesting doctors do. But when you5 have contracted employees, they are6 really outside of the purview of the7 review of government, and I don't think8 that that is always taken into9 consideration either. It reduces10 transparency and I think it also reduces11 Council's ability to actually find out12 what is happening when work is contracted13 out.14

Thank15 you.16

One more17 point of information.18

Yes.19 The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo --20

Also --21

--22 for another point of information.23

Also, it24 wasn't clear to us whether or not the25 36 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 malpractice insurance was paid for.2 That's not transparent, nor is there a3 benefit package provided to the part-time4 doctors. We're not sure of that. And5 that's been a question that -- especially6 the residency waivers. I said all along7 that I think we have a lot of fine8 physicians that would love an opportunity9 to live in this city to work part time10 for the City. So I just don't get it why11 we can't find people that are residents12 of the City of Philadelphia.13 Thank you.14

Thank15 you.16 The Chair recognizes Councilman17 Goode for the second time.18

Thank you,19 Madam President.20 Good morning, Ms. Scott.21

Good morning,22 Councilman.23

I have two24 questions for you, both of which you're25 37 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 familiar with.2 The Mayor proposed roughly a3 $3.8, $3.9 billion budget. Do you4 believe that that is the right5 appropriation level or should it be6 higher or lower?7

Well, we think that8 the appropriation level should be higher,9 and the reason we say that is because in10 the Mayor's budget, there are still11 significant reductions in City services.12 We have been notified by the City that we13 are facing layoffs that are effective14 July 1st. And beyond that, this budget15 does not restore the cuts in library16 services, and we are extremely concerned17 about the libraries and what is going to18 happen there.19 (Applause.)20

So do you21 have a recommended appropriation level?22

Well, we think that23 the City should be appropriating the24 amount of money that will restore the25 38 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 services that have been cut.2

Okay.3 (Applause.)4

The reason5 why I ask the second question6 specifically in terms of what the7 appropriation level should be is because8 you've identified several different9 savings within your testimony, and10 there's been savings identified by other11 people, including Councilmembers as well.12 My question is, where should those13 savings go? In other words, should it go14 to fund the $3.8, $3.9, $4.0 billion15 budget? Should it go directly into labor16 contracts? In terms of savings you've17 identified, where do you think they18 should go?19

Well, I think it20 should be a combination. I think that it21 is important for the City to restore22 services, but I think it is also for the23 City to be fair to its employees. And as24 I cited in my testimony, the proposals25 39 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 that we've received from the City of2 Philadelphia would really significantly3 cut our members' pay. We're not talking4 about just a zero in benefits or in5 wages. We're talking about taking money6 out of people's pocket. And, you know,7 that is of a serious concern to us.8 So we think it should be a9 combination of both.10

So the11 follow-up to both questions, what is your12 final recommendation in terms of what13 Council should do? Knowing that if we14 set an appropriation level with, let's15 say, $3.9 billion, that money is already16 spent before contracts are negotiated.17 So I'm sure you're not asking us to set18 an appropriation level that uses up all19 the potential tax revenue and uses up all20 the potential savings that have been21 identified. So at the end of the day,22 what are you recommending Council do in23 terms of appropriation level?24

Well, as I said, I25 40 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 think the appropriation level should be2 higher. Now, you know, I did not come3 prepared to give a specific number. But4 beyond that, we believe that there are5 significant savings here. Our concern is6 that unions are not going to get credit7 for any of the savings. If we want to go8 in and negotiate a contract with the9 City, we have to believe that we have a10 partnership there where if we find11 savings that could go to wage increases12 or benefit increases for our members,13 that we will be credited with that.14 In my meeting with the City, we15 were clearly told that that was not the16 City's approach, and for us, we see that17 as very problematic. This Administration18 has expressed no interest in doing19 redesign in government initiatives, where20 we think that even more savings could be21 identified, because one of the things22 that I'd like to emphasize here is, these23 are savings we found without the City's24 cooperation. We think that if there were25 41 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 cooperation with the Administration, that2 we could actually find a lot more savings3 and a lot more efficient ways of4 providing City services. But no union5 leader is going to negotiate against6 themselves, and that's really what we7 would be expected to do if we came in and8 found savings for the City and then the9 approach that was taken was, Thank you10 very much and, oh, by the way, we're11 going to lay you off and you're not going12 to have any salary increases. So that is13 not going to benefit my members, and I14 would like to see our members get credit15 for savings that they come up with so16 that they, like everybody else, can keep17 their jobs, provide good City services18 and have decent wages and benefits.19

Thank you,20 Ms. Scott.21 (Applause.)22

Thank you,23 Madam President.24

The25 42 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.2

Oh, I'm sorry.3

That's4 okay.5

Ms.6 Scott, you're not finished.7

I actually8 am going to be very brief, because9 actually Councilman Goode asked the10 questions. It was along the lines of the11 questions that I was going to ask with12 respect to your last statement about13 Council not voting for a contingency14 budget, because, in fact, we have15 submitted a proposal that allocates, from16 our perspective, the necessary revenues17 to support the Mayor's 3.8 budget.18 When you make the statement not19 to support a contingency budget, I guess20 now you're saying based on the amount of21 appropriation power and not the fact that22 it's contingent upon state authorization23 of sales tax and pension restructuring,24 things that are not directly in our25 43 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 control? I just wanted a little clarity2 on that, because I think I heard you in3 response to Councilman Goode.4

Yes. We're very5 concerned about a budget that is so6 reliant on sales tax and the amortization7 legislation being approved by the state8 Legislature, and obviously they are on a9 different legislative schedule than the10 City is for their budget versus the City11 budget. And we're particularly concerned12 about any budget that would be passed13 without the sales tax and the14 amortization bills being approved by the15 state Legislature. That would really --16 which is one of the reasons why we are17 strongly suggesting that the wage tax and18 the business privilege tax not be off the19 table. I think there is enough analysis20 that is being done that to roll it back21 to 2007 levels really is not onerous for22 businesses or for wage-earners.23

Okay. I24 actually agree with that.25 44 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 One quick question with respect2 to doctors. In some instances I know3 that there is a scenario where doctors4 get waivers for their student loans,5 because I have a family member that's a6 doctor, and the biggest problem with7 ultimate employment coming out of8 internship and all that is the fact that9 you got this gigantic student loan and10 you have to pay it back regardless of11 what you make, unless you work in a12 particular program. If you work for a13 government entity, is there any sort of14 waiver or reduction in the obligation to15 repay the student loan at the particular16 schedule?17

I'm not familiar18 for physicians. I think for nurses there19 may be some -- we can provide that20 information to you. There are some21 forgiveness programs for nurses, and I22 have someone here, actually Bob Coyle, he23 could probably come up and answer the24 question for you.25 45 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1

Well, the2 reason I ask that about the doctors,3 because you talked about having4 physicians' assistants and the difference5 in cost versus nurses, and I think that6 based on my conversations with this7 family member and actually the concern8 about the national agenda reducing the9 pay of doctors, like the European model,10 the cost associated with student loans is11 dramatically less, so, therefore, doctors12 will be willing to work for less. But in13 this environment when you're coming out14 of medical school with a $150,000,15 $200,000 student loan, you have to pay16 that back on the schedule regardless of17 what your situation is.18

I understand19 exactly what you're saying.20

That's21 really the problem.22

That actually could23 be legislation that I think that the City24 could push at the state level and see if25 46 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 physicians who work for the City, just2 like school teachers and other workers3 who get forgiveness because of doing4 government work, it would be, I think,5 probably a very good enticement to bring6 doctors to work for the City.7

Doctors are8 committed people.9

But that, I10 believe, would be something that we would11 have to suggest to the state Legislature.12

No. I13 understand. If we can do it locally, I14 think we would have done it already. But15 that would be something that your union16 would be supportive of?17

Absolutely. Yes.18

Thank you.19 Thank you, Madam President.20 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:21 You're welcome.22 The Chair recognizes23 Councilwoman Sanchez.24

Thank25 47 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 you.2 I want to thank Councilman3 Jones for not asking a lot of questions4 the day before Mother's Day.5 Cathy, one of the things that6 concerns me in your presentation -- and,7 in fact, it's the tone of today's Daily8 News editorial around, Let's get it9 together -- I'm concerned about you're10 saying that you have put forth some11 potential savings and that this12 Administration is not entertaining them13 or they are entertaining them but they14 don't want to give you credit? I just15 want to know in terms of are we dealing16 in good faith here?17

I think that the18 approach of the Administration is a19 similar approach to the suggestions that20 City Council members have made, which is21 essentially they look at what suggestions22 you make, they say, Thank you very much,23 they go off and decide what they want to24 do, and then they say they did it and25 48 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 they never give you any feedback about2 other suggestions that are made and why3 they may not have acted upon it.4

Is this5 any different than previous6 Administrations or do you find this to be7 better or worse in terms of when the8 union has tried to come up with savings9 for the City?10

In my opinion, it's11 worse. We did have some -- even though12 it was not used to the extent that it13 could have been used, we did have under14 the previous Administrations some15 redesign in government initiatives, where16 we collaborated with them and we17 attempted to have three wins, a win for18 the Administration, a win for the workers19 and a win for the citizens. We did20 manage to streamline functions or have21 operations work better.22 For example, the first redesign23 in government initiative we engaged in24 was the meal program in the Recreation25 49 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 Department, which brought in money to the2 City, provided meals to children, and our3 members were very happy with the work4 that they were doing.5 So there have been some6 significant successes in the past. I7 have raised repeatedly with this8 Administration trying to do a redesign in9 government initiative. Any redesign in10 government initiative would be helpful,11 and their response in contract12 negotiations was to eliminate the no13 layoff clause in the redesign in14 government initiative provision in the15 contract.16 So what they want is for people17 to think about ways of saving the City18 money that may in fact result in them19 losing their job, and I told them that20 that really takes away any value in a21 redesign in government initiative. I22 don't think that they have been23 responsive to any of the other proposals24 that we have made.25 50 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1

Going2 back to the point around appropriate3 appropriations level, as you're aware, we4 are being asked to sign off on a budget5 and an appropriation that calls for $256 million in savings in the first year and7 then absolutely no increases going back8 five years.9 As union President, do you10 think it would be responsible for us to11 approve a budget with that? Do you think12 the union is going to be prepared to do13 that?14

Well, I have talked15 to people in City Council that the $2516 million line item decrease in benefits to17 us is unacceptable and should be removed18 from the budget. Originally it was19 listed as benefits under healthcare. I20 did ask the Administration what they21 meant in contract negotiations. They22 said it was not just limited to23 healthcare, it was in general savings.24 But that is to us unacceptable,25 51 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 because rather than even having any money2 in there for modest increases in3 healthcare or wages, it's a reduction,4 and if we are not going to be provided5 with any credit for reductions that we6 find, it's just a cut in wages.7 COUNCILWOMAN SANCHEZ:8 Obviously you understand that we are in9 the middle of unprecedented economic10 situations, and that healthcare costs11 related to our budget is one that we're12 going to have to get control of. Is the13 union prepared as part of the14 negotiations to say, We're going to sit15 down and figure out how we save money and16 break down some of the silos that have17 existed around that? I mean --18

I don't think the19 union is creating the silos. I think20 that we have an Administration that is21 reluctant to look at processes. Like,22 for example, one of the things that I23 suggested was the failure of different24 departments to look at whether businesses25 52 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 actually have licenses to do business in2 the City of Philadelphia, to make sure3 that their taxes are paid before they4 issue permits or other work orders.5

But as6 it relates to healthcare -- because one7 of the issues that came up during our8 budget discussion was in some cases we9 have married couples who work for the10 unions who are like doubled insured and11 all those practices that increase the12 cost of our business. Are you, as part13 of negotiations, willing to look at that14 and in fact --15

Well, I don't think16 people are double insured.17

That was18 one of the issues that came up.19

No. I understand20 that, and I think that this is, again,21 another red herring. If someone22 worked -- it is not unusual for a married23 couple to be employed -- both people to24 be employed. Why should people who work25 53 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 for one employer be disadvantaged? If a2 person had insurance from another job,3 they would be entitled to that insurance.4 Frequently what happens is, people will5 be -- some people decline insurance, but6 frequently people will choose different7 plans to be insured in. So there is a8 premium being paid on their behalf. I9 think that those are the kinds of10 decisions that people make individually,11 and I would suggest that if the City were12 really doing a good job in healthcare and13 their plan didn't cost more than the14 union's plan, because it does -- the plan15 that the City has costs more, provides16 less benefits and has a higher payroll17 deduction than our union's plan, and if18 the City really was serious about its19 healthcare and controlling its costs for20 its plan, why are they asking the unions21 to take our members who are in the City22 plan back into our plan? Which is one of23 the contract proposals. They actually24 want to give back to the union25 54 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 non-members who are in the City plan.2 Now, what reason would there be other3 than cost?4 COUNCILWOMAN SANCHEZ:5 Interesting. I was not aware of that.6

And we asked that7 specifically of the City, because they8 have the same proposals for District9 Council 33, and if it isn't a cost-driven10 issue, I would assume that the City would11 want to do this because they would like12 to save money. Well, that tells me that13 the union is doing a better job in14 healthcare than the City is.15

What's16 the saving per -- and my last question.17 What is the difference in premium between18 what we're paying and what your --19

The City has not20 given us their premium, but we know that21 it is more expensive. We know that it's22 somewhere in the area of $1,100. They23 provide us with $976 per person per24 month.25 55 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1

Thank2 you.3

Thank4 you.5 Are there any further questions6 of Ms. Scott?7 (No response.)8 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:9 Seeing none, I thank you. Thank you very10 much.11 (Applause.)12 MR. McPHERSON: Our next13 witness is Vivian Drayton.14 (Witness approached witness15 table.)16

Good morning.17 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:18 Welcome. Please identify yourself for19 the record and proceed with your20 testimony.21

Yes. 1 Now, and I want to thank all of the City2 Council members who have supported this3 organization over the years. 6 This testimony -- I understand7 that DHS is returning and all of it may8 not be as appropriate today, but I do9 want to address a few points. 10 Our organization was founded 3411 years ago by Dr. E. Peter Wilson,12 pediatrician and public health13 specialist, and SCAN has incorporated the14 use of the multi-disciplinary approach to15 prevent and treat child abuse in all its16 forms, and we have a specialty of medical17 situations for children. 1 philosophy regarding this issue, we2 receive some of the most serious cases in3 the system. 5 To say we have been without problems, our6 organization and many others would be7 dishonest. 10 I have been at the agency 1611 years as Executive Director and I offer a12 few suggestions and recommendations to13 improve the system to use our limited14 funds in different ways. 20 It's important that I have21 never -- to note that I have never worked22 with leadership within DHS that did not23 want to keep children safe and free from24 harm. Never. 3 First, I think there's some4 inherent problems. I was here a few days5 ago with Mothers in Charge, and their6 courage stuck with me, and I feel that7 there's a lack of courage in the child8 welfare system. Partial truths to9 enhance or protect anyone other than10 children, the children that we serve,11 must be addressed. If we vilify in an12 effort to justify, it's wrong. If we13 identify in order to rectify, I believe14 we're right. 17 In environments that are18 similar to Philadelphia, the courage to19 say this is not working cannot be20 temperate in order to maintain a21 contract. Supporting intervention that22 is clearly appropriate contributes to the23 illusion that children are safe. 1 the child welfare system to save and2 reduce costs if it does not leave3 children on hold until something major4 occurs later. 5 We cannot continue to believe a check-off6 will assess the serious dynamics facing7 families. Good cycled social histories8 and previous records prevent backtracking9 and save money before children are10 harmed. 14 It's important that we also15 look -- if we're looking at spending16 resources, we also have to look at the17 underrepresentation of agencies and18 organizations of color that serve with19 cultural sensitivity, awareness and20 culturally specific interventions. 1 around for years, hundreds of years or2 more, then they're in some ways a part of3 that. 8 In this area, it's been rather9 dismal. For over ten years, this10 organization has advocated for this11 incorporation of culturally sensitive12 practice in child welfare. 19 Communities must know that when20 they try to protect a parent who requires21 child welfare intervention, they leave22 the child vulnerable. 1 welfare system in Philadelphia and2 increasing those agencies that mirror the3 population. Instead, agencies of color4 that do good work -- I'm only talking5 about those -- are in jeopardy because6 they don't have the infrastructure to7 expand. )13

Thank you.14 DHS has supported two15 conferences to address cultural dynamics,16 and I've been involved in both of them,17 and I appreciate that, and they were18 specific to African American families.19 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:20 Ms. Drayton, if you could try to conclude21 your statement.22

I am.23

Thank24 you. Because we do have a number of25 63 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 people that we would like to hear from.2 Thank you.3

Okay. Thank you.4 I am at the very end.5 However, only a few6 decision-makers were present at those7 conferences. We must have top8 decision-makers at the conferences so9 they can learn and pass it down.10 I am asking City Council to11 consider what is being done in Texas. As12 a result of a legislative mandate, a13 disproportionality position was created14 in nine regions. Their success and15 increased community involvement and16 reductions in placement of children17 warrant our attention. Ms. Sheila Craig,18 the state Director of Texas, is in19 communication with me, and I will freely20 share their experience with anyone21 willing to listen. There's value in big,22 but there's also value in small.23 Thank you for allowing me to24 share some of my thoughts and concerns.25 64 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 (Applause.)2

Thank3 you very much.4 Are there any questions of5 Ms. Drayton?6 (No response.)7

Thank8 you very much. Your testimony was very9 enlightening. Thank you.10 MR. McPHERSON: Our next11 witnesses are a panel: Kristine12 Campbell, Ms. Eleanor Childs, Ms. Katrina13 Clark, Ms. Betty Beaufort, Andrew14 Christman and Samia Bolling.15 (Witnesses approached witness16 table.)17

Good18 morning. Welcome. Kindly identify19 yourself for the record and proceed with20 your testimony.21

Good morning to22 President Verna and to the rest of the23 Councilpeople and their representatives24 that are in the room today. We're glad25 65 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 that you're here. My name is Eleanor2 Childs. I'm here representing myself.3 I'm a citizen of Philadelphia. I'm also4 representing my school, Montessori5 Genesis II, which is a non-profit, small,6 private, independent school in the Mantua7 community. I'm representing the8 Coalition to Save the Libraries and I'm9 representing the Durham branch of the10 Free Libraries.11 (Applause.)12

First of all, let13 me just thank the Council, because the14 last time I was here, I was with 5015 people. It was my whole school,16 three-year-olds all the way up to the17 ten-year-olds, all of my staff, and we18 were sitting in the gallery and we were19 so happy and felt so blessed that the20 Council voted on that day a resolution to21 put off the closing of the libraries22 until there was time to further discuss23 the issue and how it could be taken care24 of. And so we stood. applause. 14 People rose up. 3 Unless those resources are going to be4 there, then those libraries are in fact5 not there. 7 And so we are here today, I am8 here today to say that my Durham Library9 is in jeopardy. 11 We worry about whether we are going to12 have enough staff people to do all of the13 myriad of jobs that they do. 5 They were always meant to offer the6 freedom of information, the ability to7 educate one's self, the ability to just8 enjoy the word. They were always meant9 to do those things, and as we know, there10 are a time-tested, cost-effective11 successful way of doing all of those12 things. We don't have to have a special13 hearing to prove that. We don't have to14 have blue ribbon commissions to prove15 that. 13 Many librarians are at this14 point saying that they are becoming15 stressed because so much of this job is16 falling on their shoulders. 18 This is not the time to cut their19 resources. )10

-- today to say11 there is absolutely no way that you can12 take anything else out of the libraries.13 It is not going to work to have my Durham14 Library buddy up with another library, be15 open three days a week and then the staff16 run back and forth between libraries.17 That's not going to work.18 (Applause.)19

That is not going20 to work. We need our library to be safe.21 We need our library to be secure. And I22 mean the library itself. We need the23 staff, the professional librarians, the24 materials, the books, all of the other25 71 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 resources that a library has. We need2 those things to be in there and3 functioning at the best of levels.4

Thank5 you.6

Can I tell one7 story before I stop?8

Just9 one, please.10

Just one, a quick11 one.12 One of my students, he's six13 years old, he's in the first grade. He14 is a mischievous little boy and gets in a15 lot of trouble. So sometimes when I see16 him, I have jaundiced eyes and I don't17 know what I'm going to be facing that18 day. But early last week, he came into19 school. He had a handful of money. This20 is it, $2.50, one dollar bill and lots of21 change, and he handed it to me and he22 said, Ms. Childs, I want to give this to23 the libraries to keep them open.24 So I was asked today by Channel25 72 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 10, Oh, well, isn't that a good way for2 maybe the libraries to stay open, if3 everybody gives money. Well, I would4 like every child in the City of5 Philadelphia to bring a penny or a dime,6 but we know that all that would really do7 would be a practice in allowing children8 to learn that they can stand up for9 things that they believed in and that10 they in fact could contribute, but when11 it comes down to the true funding of our12 libraries and our other essential13 services, it has to be us, the adults,14 who make the decision of where to place15 those finances in order to have those16 services available to all of our17 citizens.18 Thank you.19 (Applause.)20

Thank21 you very much.22 Our next witness?23

Hello. My name24 is Andrew Christman. I'm an artist,25 73 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 teacher and parent and voter from2 Fishtown Philadelphia, and in the3 interest of being brief, I'm just going4 to read a short statement.5 The Fishtown branch of the Free6 Library serves a community that has been7 hit especially hard by the latest8 cutbacks of essential services in our9 city. For example, we have lost a fire10 engine and two neighborhood pools.11 Additionally, the Northeastern Hospital12 in nearby Port Richmond is slated for13 closure in June.14 Amidst these devastating and15 demoralizing closures, our library is a16 beacon of hope for my neighbors and I.17 We will be depending upon our library as18 a resource for job searches and research19 about health issues. Children and adults20 will be looking for engaging programming21 and a cool place to spend the day in the22 absence of pools. Parents will be going23 to the library with their children to24 participate in book clubs and to take out25 74 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 books.2 Nevertheless, our library is3 already very strained due to4 underfunding, rolling closures and5 understaffing. For example, programs for6 our story hour have been halted due to7 the uncertainty of budgets and schedules8 for service. In recent car drives, young9 families who have recently arrived at10 Fishtown have been our largest groups to11 sign up for cards at our branch.12 However, lack of materials, programs and13 inconsistent hours may deter them from14 becoming active library users. We have15 several very dedicated high school16 students who volunteer at our branch17 because they have chosen our library as18 the place to make a positive contribution19 to their community. Not only are they20 helpful to our staff, but they are role21 models for the smaller children who come22 to our libraries daily. It is our23 concern that their participation in the24 Fishtown branch will dwindle as disrupted25 75 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 services provides fewer opportunities for2 them to be there.3 Twenty percent of Fishtown4 families live below the poverty level.5 This was a statistic generated by a6 census before this economic catastrophe.7 I can say with certainly based on my8 experiences at the Fishtown branch that9 many of our library patrons are folks in10 need of the strained resources in our11 branch. Our amazing and dedicated12 library staff is always working13 tirelessly to attend the needs of14 everyone at this increase -- and this is15 an increasingly difficult task when their16 attentions are being divided between17 other branches for assignments and also18 they're struggling to make the best they19 can do with the resources there.20 It appears ironic to21 Fishtowners that despite the efforts of22 the City to support the construction of23 new condominiums and casinos and local24 economic development groups' efforts to25 76 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 make Girard Avenue and Frankford Avenue2 corridors for the arts, there is money3 being taken away from essential services4 which are assets to our community and5 draws families and new homeowners to our6 neighborhood. Such cuts makes fools of7 us who have decided to live in the City8 because we hope to raise our families in9 communities that are vibrant, safe and10 have amazing neighborhood services such11 as Fishtown.12 Recent events have deeply13 divided Fishtowners on the issue of the14 casino on Delaware Avenue, but I can15 assure you that all of Fishtown is united16 around our library, and we will hold the17 City Council responsible if they vote for18 a budget that cuts service from the19 libraries.20 Thank you very much.21 (Applause.)22

Thank23 you.24 Good morning. Please identify25 77 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 yourself for the record.2

Good morning. My3 name is Carolyn Morgan and, first of all,4 I would like to say from the bottom of my5 heart, thank you so very much to our City6 Council for having the initiative and the7 wisdom to give it a chance to look into8 the situation for the funding for the9 libraries to keep them remain open. I10 thank you from the bottom of my heart.11 Now, I represent Kingsessing12 Library, member of the Coalition to Save13 the Libraries, the Friends of Kingsessing14 Library. I'm a retired senior citizen, a15 grandmother and a mother. I come on16 behalf of our libraries throughout the17 City and my Kingsessing branch. We need18 the support of City Council, continued19 support. Our library needs the essential20 tools and materials to function.21 We have many programs going on22 within the library. We can't look at how23 many books are taken out to say how a24 library is serviced, because a lot of the25 78 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 children attend different reading2 programs, utilize the computers through3 research. The work is done within the4 library itself.5 Now, our children are in dire6 need of the library remaining open. It7 is their resource, their haven, safe8 haven, where they can go where they are9 taught, because your library is also a10 form of a teaching institution. We need11 our librarians. Our library serves the12 same purpose as a teacher in a public13 school or any school classroom.14 (Applause.)15

We need the books.16 Computers are fine, yes. It carries them17 towards the future, but we need the books18 because the books are what help the mind19 to grow, to learn, to comprehend, to20 research, and without the proper21 materials and whatnot, what would be done22 with our children, in our census23 speaking, it will be a form of murder24 because the mind is not being fed. The25 79 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 physical body needs to be fed in order to2 be healthy.3 (Applause.)4

The mental mind5 needs to be fed in order to grow in6 wisdom and knowledge, to learn how to7 comprehend, how to think straight, how to8 research, how to be able to help one9 another. Without books, they can't do10 it. Without the librarians, they don't11 have the teachers to teach them to learn12 how to research, because the schools13 cannot do it all. And we need our14 libraries. We need the funding that was15 cut to be restored. We need those 11116 positions that were cut to be refilled.17 We need our security that was taken away18 and placed in the prisons and whatnot to19 come back into our libraries for the20 safety of our children and our workers.21 We need the help of the City22 Council to continue to back us. Not23 everybody is born with a silver spoon or24 in blue grass country.25 80 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1

Thank2 you. Thank you. I would just --3 (Applause.)4

I5 would just like to remind everyone we do6 have an awful lot of people that would7 like the opportunity to testify. I8 believe that when you called in, you were9 told not to exceed three minutes with10 your testimony. I'm asking that you11 please abide by that.12 Thank you. As I said, if13 people came here on a Saturday, they're14 here, we want to give them an opportunity15 to testify, and, as I said, I think it's16 wonderful that so many of you showed up.17 Thank you. I think we have two18 other members of the panel to testify.19 Just remain in the front. I believe20 there are some questions or comments from21 members of the Committee.22 Good morning. Please identify23 yourself for the record and proceed with24 your testimony.25 81 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1

Good morning. My2 name is Samia Bolling. 7 Our Haddington branch was8 founded in December of 1915 by Albert9 Kelsey. Andrew Carnegie donated the10 library, and we found out doing some11 research. 17 We are in an economic recession18 right now, and the Mayor's Office is19 funding a lot of programs that comes20 through our local branch; for example,21 the Reentry for Ex-Offenders program. 1 woman could come in looking for a job and2 the library is closed. 6 A lot of children use the7 library. Our library was just closed8 this Monday due to budget. 17 And I just wanted to give a18 little history about preserving the19 Carnegie libraries. 1 that the libraries was here. He doesn't2 have any personal ties to our area. 5 We do so much in our library6 right now. The question that we were7 asked to bring here before City Council8 to speak was what would this impact our9 communities if we were to operate on a10 reduced staff, a reduced budget and11 everything. 14 We have a childhood pre-school15 story time that has been affected. We16 have our Summer in the Science program is17 put on hold. Our reading program is put18 on hold. We have not had new magazines19 or periodicals since well over last year20 sometime. 22 We have a lot of people that23 volunteer. 2 Our library impacts so many3 people in our community and it goes4 across race, economic, social, gender,5 handicapped, sexual orientation or6 religious background. 9 We had the Maasai warriors from Kenya10 here. 13 Our own Councilman -- I'm in14 the 4th District -- Councilman Curtis15 Jones sponsors a children's parenting16 workshop every year. 20 Councilman Jones' office repeatedly comes21 and shows his staff. 2 I have on my billboard here a3 picture that Councilman Jones took on the4 steps with our library back in November5 of 2008, and he said that he was going to6 fight for us, and we're just asking that7 not just Councilman Jones in our8 district -- I'm not here to argue about9 West Philly versus North Philly versus10 South Philly. We just want full funding11 restored to all of our libraries. 13 Right now we are building more prisons14 than schools and we're tearing down15 libraries. 20 They will pick up crime instead of21 knowledge. )9

Thank10 you very much.11 Please proceed. Identify12 yourself for the record.13

Hello. My name is14 Katrina Clark. I'm a lifelong resident15 of Philadelphia, both Manayunk and West16 Philadelphia. 20 I'm amazed that we're still21 having this conversation about just how22 important the essential services are in a23 time of an economic crisis. 7 We, the citizens of8 Philadelphia, are not blind and we're not9 dumb. We know the nature of politics as10 usual. We know how lower, middle class,11 working class and poor people have borne12 the brunt of crises, both economic and13 otherwise, since time and memorial. 17 Philadelphia dares to be out18 front ahead of the game, a world-class19 city, but our city uses antediluvian ways20 to respond in a crisis. 1 helping stranger. These very acts will2 define the moral character of New York3 forever. And now we find ourselves in4 another crisis. It may at first not seem5 to be on the same scale, but as the waves6 of economic drop ripple across not only7 cities but nations, we are looking at a8 situation that directly affects9 individuals across the entire world. And10 now we, the City of Philadelphia, have to11 ask ourselves, how are we going to12 respond? And what hurts my heart is that13 instead of pulling together, our City14 government is asking us to fight over15 scraps. 18 Two hundred years ago19 Philadelphia was actually known to be a20 world-class city. 5 Philadelphia has been in the forefront6 for centuries. 9 We can't keep living off our old10 reputation. It's time to step up. If we11 want to be a world-class city, then we12 need to treat our citizens as world-class13 citizens. All world-class citizens need14 equity of access to education and15 information in order to be educated and16 contributing members of society. Free17 public libraries are essential in18 striving for a level playing field. They19 were founded on this principle, and they20 will continue to be relevant in the21 strengthening of our democracy. 5 Now, in this time of crisis, it6 is more important than ever to reflect on7 the core values that our city and nation8 were founded on. It is too easy in9 crisis mode to destroy the very10 foundation that we love and aim to11 protect. 15 We cannot abandon our goals in16 times of economic crisis. Then we would17 only add on a moral crisis, that of18 allowing the gap between rich and poor,19 black and white to further widen. When20 we look back in 10, 20 or 100 years at21 how we responded to this economic and22 burgeoning moral crisis, how will we have23 defined ourselves? Who will we have24 protected? 1 be able to do if the very moral fabric of2 our society has imploded? If we drop the3 safety nets of essential services, what4 state will we find ourselves in? 6 As we learned from September7 11th, everyday citizens, people from all8 walks of life can and will indeed stand9 together to fight for a common cause in10 the face of a crisis. I ask that City11 Council support the City in finding an12 equitable response to this crisis in13 which those who have more are asked to14 step up the same way that citizens of New15 York did almost eight years ago, to help16 out those who have less. 21 Full funding needs to return to22 the Free Library of Philadelphia so that23 citizens can fully utilize the resources24 of our city. 1 need to be restored to meet the expanded2 need of the population. The3 four-staff-minimum policy needs to be4 rescinded to add more flexibility to an5 already stressed system. 13

Thank14 you very much.15 (Applause.)16

Thank17 you.18 The Chair recognizes Councilman19 Jones.20

Thank you,21 Madam President.22 I just want to applaud the23 advocates for the Library, but I want to24 also point out the folk in Council that25 93 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 stood up and did their part to make sure2 that the libraries were open, and I want3 to particularly acknowledge Councilwoman4 Blackwell, Councilman Kelly and5 Councilman Green, but I also want to6 identify an unsung hero here and identify7 her, Sophie Bryan, who is the Legislative8 Director for -- stand up, Sophie. Stand9 up.10 (Applause.)11

She went12 into court and masterfully defended the13 case to keep the libraries open and, in14 particular, my branch, Haddington, which15 is one of the Carnegie Mellon libraries,16 and I just wanted to publicly acknowledge17 her and say that this library card here18 probably out of all of the credit cards I19 possess has the ability to give one more20 back.21 Thank you, Madam President.22 (Applause.)23

Thank24 you.25 94 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 I know Councilwoman Blackwell2 had her light on, but apparently she left3 the room for a moment, so we're going to4 proceed.5 Thank you. Thank you all so6 very much.7 Our next panel?8 MR. McPHERSON: Our next panel9 consists of Deborah Caldwell, Sherrie10 Cohen, Susan Gould, Tiara Fuller.11 (Witnesses approached witness12 table.)13

Good14 morning. Kindly identify yourself for15 the record and proceed with your16 testimony.17

Hello.18

Hi.19

Hello, Councilwoman20 Verna and other City Council members. My21 name is Sherrie Cohen, as you know, and22 I'm the daughter of Councilman David23 Cohen in whose honor the Ogontz Library24 is named. The library was renamed the25 95 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 David Cohen Ogontz Library after my2 father died in 2005 in recognition of the3 36 years he, my mother, Florence Cohen,4 and the entire Ogontz community fought5 for a library to serve their community.6 The David Cohen Ogontz Library is a7 library borne of struggle. It is also8 the newest library branch in the City and9 opened in 1997.10 The question before City11 Council today is, do you want to pay on12 the front end or the back end of people's13 lives? Do you want to invest in young14 people? Do you want to invest in our15 communities or will Philadelphia continue16 to suffer the ravages of disinvestment17 and decline, high unemployment, poverty18 and mass incarceration?19 Our libraries are a beacon of20 light in our communities, a sanctuary, a21 community center, a hub of information22 and resources. The library promises a23 step up in life for our school children,24 our young adults and job-seekers of all25 96 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 ages.2 Our libraries need to have the3 resources, the days open, the staffing4 that we had in November before the Mayor5 slashed the Free Library budget by 206 percent. This 20 percent cut has7 crippled our libraries at a time when8 library visits are up 21 percent in the9 City.10 Our library, the David Cohen11 Ogontz Library, is operating with12 one-third less staff since November,13 including the loss of our full-time14 municipal guard who was laid off. The15 new Free Library rule of four, which16 requires four staff needed in order to17 open the library, including a security18 guard, has left our library closed on too19 many days since November, leaving20 community members irate because of a lack21 of access to the community's facilities.22 People who need the services of23 the library are being turned away on a24 daily basis because of unscheduled25 97 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 closings and irregular hours. On a2 recent day when there was an unscheduled3 closing, children from a daycare center4 approached the library. Their collective5 cry, The library is closed, could break6 your heart.7 Also, our libraries' materials8 budgets have been cut by 30 percent.9 There is no money to purchase summer10 reading book lists for students in grades11 one through 12. There's no budget for12 the summer reading programming for13 children, teens or adults. Our14 after-school program has seen cuts in15 hours for after-school leaders and16 student assistants. Program money has17 been eliminated. Outreach activities18 have been suspended. There are no funds19 for Saturday overtime for staff to20 participate in community events and21 health fairs. Our library staff is22 overworked, and morale is low.23 The Free Library's new24 five-day-a-week schedule is insufficient25 98 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 to accommodate the large numbers of2 people seeking to use our City's3 libraries. For example, we have so many4 people now using our library that5 children can only use the computers 156 minutes each day and adults only one half7 hour each day.8 We thank City Council for9 standing with us when the Mayor saw to10 close our library and ten other libraries11 by December 31st. We ask you to stand12 with us now. Councilman Jones is13 considering the introduction of14 legislation to restore the $8 million to15 the Free Library budget that the Mayor16 cut in November.17 (Applause.)18

We ask you to19 please support this legislation.20 I'm a member of the Friends of21 the David Cohen Ogontz Library. Many of22 our members are active with the Coalition23 to Save the Libraries, whose organizing24 we credit with the saving of our 1125 99 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 libraries from closure. The Coalition to2 Save the Libraries is in turn a member3 organization of the Coalition for4 Essential Services. We support the5 demands of the Essential Services6 Coalition for no cuts to services and7 fair and equitable taxation.8 We want City Council to adopt a9 budget that invests in our neighborhoods,10 creates quality jobs for our residents11 and is adequately funded by a progressive12 tax system in which corporations, large13 non-profit institutions and individuals14 pay their fair share.15 Thank you.16 (Applause.)17

Thank18 you, Sherrie. I just can't believe that19 it's four years that your dad has passed20 on, and I do recall so vividly how year21 after year after year -- and I see22 Councilman Kelly is nodding his head23 agreeing with me -- how he fought for24 that library. He fought so bitterly, and25 100 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 it seemed that every year he spoke about2 it, but it wasn't done, and he would3 never relent. And I can say to you, I4 think you're a true testament that the5 apple doesn't fall far from the tree,6 because he would be here fighting to keep7 the hours open as you are and that there8 be no cuts made.9 So thank you very much. You're10 taking me back into the past.11 Thank you.12

Thank you.13 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:14 Please identify yourself for the record.15

My name is Susan16 Gould. I represent the Fumo Library on17 Broad Street between Ritner and Porter.18 I'm a member of the Coalition to Save the19 Libraries, and in real life, I'm a music20 and dance critic, a teacher of Italian,21 German and French, an editor and a22 proofreader, none of which adds up to pay23 the bills. But I will not go through24 everything that I had originally25 101 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 intended, because my colleagues have been2 so extraordinarily eloquent. I will say,3 first of all, that the Fumo Library has4 suffered the same problems as the others5 that have been referred to today when it6 became one of the 11 expendable7 libraries, and we have had the same8 terrible effects on our programs that had9 to be either cancelled or postponed. And10 one thing that distinguishes the Fumo11 Library, are, for instance, our monthly12 Italian movies, which for a couple of13 months couldn't take place, great deals14 of programs for children, both daycare15 center children and children who attend16 the Fels Community Center next door. We17 service, I think, if I'm not mistaken,18 six public schools in the neighborhood.19 So I will simply reiterate that20 any -- it's already been bad enough until21 now. The mere fact that we have22 libraries closed on Saturdays in the23 summer, which has been going on for24 decades perhaps, is a huge mistake. To25 102 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 reduce hours even further or days or2 whichever horrible plan might be taken on3 is inconceivable and must not be done.4 I would like to remind5 everybody that in the news the other day6 on Thursday, our Pennsylvania Senate7 presented a budget that literally8 eviscerates the state's cultural body;9 for instance, slashing the entire budgets10 for the Pennsylvania Council for the11 Arts, Pennsylvania's part of PBS, Public12 Broadcasting System, the Office for --13 the Film Office, which directly affects14 Philadelphia. And what else? And this15 really hit: The Office for Safe Schools.16 Now, I ask you, what are the safest and17 most inspiring and most comforting and18 most useful havens for children,19 especially if our government decides that20 there should no longer be a department to21 make sure their schools are safe -- and22 we know how unsafe many schools are --23 than libraries?24 It's true that this proposal by25 103 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 the republican majority of the Senate may2 not take place, may not go further,3 definitely will be argued about, but4 there will be cuts.5 Now, Pennsylvania, it has been6 said -- I'm sure you've all heard this --7 is Philadelphia and Pittsburgh with8 Alabama in between. Now, do we want to9 have Philadelphia end up in the same10 status as other parts of our state from11 whence comes some of those senators who12 think that culture and arts and safe13 schools are not as important as14 additional funding for prisons, which we15 wouldn't need if everybody could get to16 libraries and be safe in their schools.17 So we don't want to make the18 same mistake. We don't want to be19 another -- nothing against Alabama. It20 was just that was the way the quote went.21 But let us not let our City Council,22 please, City Council, don't do a23 Pennsylvania state Senate, don't pull24 that on the Philadelphia libraries.25 104 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 Thank you.2 (Applause.)3

Good4 afternoon. Welcome. Please identify5 yourself for the record. I think it is6 afternoon; is it not? Yes.7

Good afternoon,8 Madam President and members of City9 Council. My name is Betty Beaufort. I'm10 here to represent Queen Memorial Library,11 Point Breeze. I just want to tell you12 the reasons why we don't want our13 library -- we don't want any libraries14 closed, but specifically Queens Memorial.15 We can feed our minds and take16 trips without leaving Point Breeze by17 reading our books, also computer usage18 like doing resume for jobs. Children use19 the library for doing their homework and20 special projects. Bottom line, we're21 asking for full funding to restore the22 libraries to its level of function, open23 six days and fully staffed. And I find24 out our pool is now going to be closed.25 105 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 My question is, what are we to do with2 our children for the summer? Blood in3 the street? You know the saying, And out4 of mind is the devil's workshop.5 We need our libraries and we6 need our pools.7 I also have some letters from8 our children that go to Queens Memorial.9 I want you to hear what the children had10 to say.11 Dear Councilwomen and men, my12 name is Praise Robinson. I am 11 years13 old. The one place I love is the Queen14 Memorial Library. The school I go to is15 W.G. Smith School. At the library I like16 to read, play games, get on the computer17 and I like to do my homework, and I get18 help with it.19 The library is important to me,20 because when I have homework, important21 projects, this is the closest place I can22 come and do it to get it done.23 Please don't close down the24 library. We know how you would feel if25 106 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 this was your home library. Sincerely,2 Praise Robinson.3 I also have another one from4 Cameron.5 Dear Councilwomen and men, my6 name is Cameron. I really enjoy the7 library called Queen Memorial. I am ten8 years old, and the reason why I like this9 library, because I'm doing my homework,10 getting on the computer, coloring,11 painting and reading and a whole lot of12 other stuff. The library is very fun.13 I have one more, because this14 is the way the children feel in Queens15 Memorial, because this is about the16 children.17 Dear Councilwomen and men, my18 name is Samantha Robbins. I go to Vare19 Elementary. We really need our home20 library. Please don't close the library.21 Kids come to the library to stay off the22 streets and get educated. Think hard.23 Queen Memorial is important to us.24 Sincerely, Samantha.25 107 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 And we also have a crosscut of2 kids. We have about six or seven schools3 that goes and use the library, which is4 St. Thomas Aquinas, Prep Charter, Bok5 High School and University Institute and6 Arthur's.7 So we're asking, please do the8 right thing by all the libraries in9 Philadelphia, especially for Queens.10 Thank you.11

Thank12 you very much.13 Thank you all very much.14 (Applause.)15

We16 have other names in this panel. Are they17 here?18

No.19

Okay.20 Thank you. Thank you so much.21 MR. McPHERSON: Our next22 witness is Joseph Powell.23

Is24 Joseph Powell here?25 108 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 (No response.)2 MR. McPHERSON: E. Darnell3 Ryans.4 (Applause.)5 (Witness approached witness6 table.)7

Good8 afternoon.9

Good afternoon. My10 name is Edward Darnell Ryans and I am the11 Executive Director of a community12 organization called Mantua Cares. We13 have a journalism program that resides in14 the Charles Durham Library, which I just15 briefly want to speak about its16 importance.17 Our mission, of course, is to18 foster the self-development of the Mantua19 community while serving as an advocate20 for community leaders and their21 importance to society. In a time where22 educational reform is on the highest23 agenda of the nation, we cannot begin to24 strip away the very support mechanism25 109 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 that helps to foster it. A budget should2 reflect the values of what we as a city3 hold most important. We may have a4 deficit in the budget, but we can never5 have a deficit in our efforts to further6 education, to promote literacy and to7 public access to technology and the8 Internet.9 In an environment where10 teachers are underpaid, the inappropriate11 resources for both students and teachers,12 looming threats of closed libraries, high13 school dropouts are at an alarming rate,14 we cannot keep tugging away at the15 foundational blocks of education for its16 ultimate collapse and at the same time17 promote the importance of literacy and18 education.19 These libraries, they provide20 us with free access to thousands of21 books, CDs and videos, which are22 essential for research and homework23 assistance for our youth. Our libraries24 provide early literacy training and25 110 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 foster lifelong learning. Programs such2 as the Mantua Times, we engage our youth3 in writing, literacy, community4 engagement and not only giving them a5 voice to be heard but a platform on which6 to do it. Other programs such as our7 Poetry Program for Spoken Word promotes8 self-expression.9 Our librarians provide10 reference to services and help with the11 Internet access and technology, which12 provides an indirect building of a13 technical know-how for administrative14 support-type jobs. In our economic15 times, where online job searches and16 application submissions are prevalent, a17 mother who has two part times during the18 week and uses the weekend to search the19 Internet for jobs is very important to20 have those resources available.21 Our libraries operate to22 provide everyone with free and equal23 access to information and to promote24 intellectual freedom. It is that phrase,25 111 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 the urgency of now, that still echo and2 we must hold on to. We must not only be3 mindful of the changes around us, but we4 must be just as conscious of the change5 that needs to happen within us.6 Frederick Douglas once said, Find out7 just what people will submit to and you8 will find out the exact amount of9 injustice and wrong which will be imposed10 upon them, and that will continue until11 it is resisted.12 The times now have told us that13 all things are possible and all goals can14 be reached with the very sacred and15 simple support of a collective effort,16 for a tomorrow that ceases at the table17 back to our communities to build them as18 we see it, for a tomorrow that supports19 our businesses and, more importantly, a20 tomorrow that brings our young men and21 women to a vision of success.22 These economic times have23 challenged not only our homes but also24 our values on the importance of a25 112 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 library, and to that, I think we all2 stand and say, Not today, not this time3 and not our libraries.4 Thank you.5

Thank6 you very much.7 (Applause.)8 MR. McPHERSON: Our next9 witness is Charles Dickens.10 (Witness approached witness11 table.)12

Good13 afternoon, Mr. Dickens.14

Good afternoon.15 My name is Charles Dickens and I'm an16 advocate for Project HOME and the Vote17 for Homeless Coalition, and I just want18 to thank Council for allowing me this19 opportunity, all of us, this opportunity20 to testify and voice our concerns about21 the budget.22 A few weeks ago Mayor Nutter23 offered a budget that minimized impacts24 on vulnerable populations. While we are25 113 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 grateful for his leadership and hopeful2 that his commitment can withstand the3 City's budget cuts until we achieve the4 goal of 5,500 new units of permanent5 supportive housing to address6 homelessness, we continue to need7 emergency and transitional housing.8 There are 2,879 emergency beds9 for men, women and children who are10 homeless, without any place to go. More11 than 300 people, twice as many in 2000,12 sleep on our streets. If even a ten13 percent cut happens to the City's14 shelters, 850 homeless men, women and15 children yearly will lose their place in16 Philadelphia shelters. The shelter17 system has already been cut. And the18 University of Pennsylvania Professor19 Dennis Coltrane, research showed that it20 causes less to keep a person housed than21 to allow him and her to continue to be22 homeless. Less money for housing means23 more money for hospital stays,24 psychiatric cares, community and mental25 114 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 health facilities and treatment beds.2 Cutting the OSH budget actually incurs3 greater costs in other places, magnifying4 rather reducing the overall impact.5 We urge all Councilmembers to6 continue Philadelphia's commitment to7 establishing permanent and affordable8 housing. And I just want to thank you9 for allowing me to go on record today.10 (Applause.)11

Thank12 you very much.13 Our next witness?14 MR. McPHERSON: Jenny15 Pokenpner.16 (No response.)17 MR. McPHERSON: Diane McDonald?18 (No response.)19 MR. McPHERSON: Chester20 Skaziak.21 (Witness approached witness22 table.)23

Good24 afternoon.25 115 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1

3 I chopped my testimony up so4 many times to keep under this5 three-minute timeframe. So if it's out6 of context, it's confusing. 9 It's S-K-A-Z-I-A-K. 14 Recently, I sent a request to15 the BRT for a report, which was to be16 sent to the Mayor and City Council by17 March the 1st, 2009. This report is due18 over a year under City Code 1303(4)(h)19 and has been the law since 1986. 705. 6 billion. 6 billion,19 an increase of 85 million. This figure20 accounts for 25 percent of the property21 in the City. 8 You have a bill to change the9 taxes in the City of Philadelphia,10 090218, and that bill is going to put 6611 percent increase to the taxpayers in12 2010. 16 You have a bill to change the17 tax abatement to 80 percent over ten18 years. Well, I say this is very apparent19 that the citizens of this city would like20 to see an end to the ten-year tax21 abatement and any abatement program,22 especially now. 1 citizens a choice as to what happens on2 this issue, in keeping with the wishes3 and not some other interest. If Council4 doesn't have the courage to do this, then5 at least let the citizens know that they6 have the alternatives that by drawing up7 a petition that will require the8 signatures of 20,000 registered voters,9 then it would become the voters' choice,10 as they did in 1919 and, as Ms. 14 There are many reasons for my15 opposition. 19 Where is the problem, you may ask? Well,20 one in particular, it is a state-run21 institution that participates. It22 receives my state tax dollars. The City23 also contributes $5,000 out of the24 Department of Commerce. 1 will give the purchaser another $7,500,2 which are tax abatement dollars. I3 believe the Budget Director supports me4 in every way. 9

Thank10 you very much, sir. We appreciate your11 coming in to testify.12 (Applause.)13 MR. McPHERSON: The last14 witness that I have is Donna Washington.15 (Ms. Washington stepped out of16 Chambers.)17

Is18 there anyone else that would like to19 testify?20 Please come up to the witness21 table. Identify yourself for the record22 and proceed with your testimony.23 (Witness approached witness24 table.)25 120 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1

Yes. My name is2 Anne C. D. 8 As you well know, raising the9 wage tax or the business franchise tax10 will mean a loss of jobs. Raising the11 City's property taxes would not. And if12 they are to raise the property taxes, I13 feel that they should exempt people14 living below the poverty line or perhaps15 homes worth less than $100,000. And I16 think what the Mayor is really trying to17 do in terms of the property tax18 reassessments is making those properties19 that are delipidated, run down worth less20 and the properties, those ritzy condos in21 Center City, worth a lot more. 3 And if it's done in a very sophisticated,4 highly complex, highly technical way, it5 will be objective. And the thing is, we6 also have to look at, when they're doing7 that, those co-ops in Center City where8 many elderly people live. There's the9 2101 co-op at 21st and Walnut. There's10 two co-ops on JFK between 19th and 20th11 and another one on Chestnut Street12 between 19th and 20th, and these -- that13 one is going to go condo apparently, the14 one on Chestnut Street. I have a friend15 in the 2101 co-op. About 10 or 15 years16 ago, senior citizens could put down17 10,000 and get it. Well, anyway, it18 skyrocketed, and there's a lot of people19 in those co-ops living on next to20 nothing, like $700 a month. So that21 would hit them hard. 4 And this wage tax, if you do5 increase it, you should exempt people6 living below the poverty line or else7 people right at minimum wage or maybe a8 little bit above it and do it in9 gradations. So maybe one time the10 poverty line to two times the poverty,11 the small increase, two to three times a12 bigger increase, and three to four even13 bigger, so it's a non-linear matter you14 increase it. 21 And I also wanted to say the22 business franchise tax, I feel like you23 should exempt small business, because24 they're really struggling. 10 It's like using your credit cards for11 groceries. Basically that's what12 happened to me with my credit cards. But13 the City would go through the same -- it14 would ruin the City's bond rating or15 credit rating as well, and in the long16 run, the City would have to pay way, way17 more to borrow. 1 greatest. And I will continue to pray2 both for City Council and the Mayor that3 a resolution would be made possible. 7

Thank8 you so much. We appreciate your coming9 in to testify.10 (Applause.)11 MR. McPHERSON: Donna12 Washington.13 (Witnesses approached witness14 table.)15

Good16 afternoon.17

Good18 afternoon. How you doing, President19 Verna --20

Fine.21

-- and City22 Council? I'm Donna Washington and I'm an23 employee at 1360 Ridge Avenue Homeless24 Shelter, the largest shelter in the25 125 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 Philadelphia area.2 I come here just to ask that --3 this is the City of Brotherly Love. So4 when you do make the decisions and making5 cuts and everything, think of the stuff6 that will cause harm to the City, which7 is -- y'all talked about libraries. Not8 only do children use libraries, homeless9 people use libraries. When they want to10 go look for a job, they have to go to the11 library to make resumes.12 Also, with the bed cuts --13 excuse me. I'm with a homeless gentleman14 now, and he been in the system for quite15 some time, and most people think of16 homelessness as people who use drugs or17 whatever, but majority of the clients18 that I deal with are homeless because of19 mental illness, because of having wives20 dying and they don't know how to maintain21 houses. So when you think of cutting22 homelessness, think of cutting people who23 really need housing due to difficult24 reasons, not because of uses of behaviors25 126 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 that's not, you know, called for.2 But I'm just here to support3 the Council and whoever else is4 supporting the budget cut. Just be5 mindful of the people who need it and the6 ones that don't.7 And I would like for him -- I'm8 going to keep it one minute and let him9 share, because he's homeless.10 (Applause.)11

Thank12 you very much.13 Please identify yourself for14 the record.15

My name is Tommy16 Wright. I've been in the shelter system17 for over 30-something years because I had18 lost my job and I went to the shelter19 system, and I find help in the shelter20 system. Every time I come back, I find21 help to get out of it.22 I also was on drugs too, but23 I'm not on drugs for two years, and where24 I'm at now is a first-time refuge for the25 127 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 mentally ill. I do have a mental2 problem, but I also know how to get out3 of the system and get my own housing,4 too. And all these people that are in5 the Ridge Shelter, if you cut they jobs6 and stuff -- I was cut my job years ago7 and I committed crimes because I had no8 money. And those people who lose their9 job at Ridge Shelter are all the way10 (unintelligible.) They losing their11 jobs. They will go into crime to get12 money, because that's all -- the only13 thing that's left to do.14 So I hope that you restore the15 jobs at Ridge Shelter and stop the bed16 cuts, because there are many people who17 is homeless on the street. They will18 start taking money on -- they will start19 stealing if they got no money.20 (Applause.)21

Thank22 you.23 Are there any questions for24 these witnesses?25 128 5/9/09 - WHOLE - BILLS 090212, etc.1 (No response.)2 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:3 Seeing none, thank you.4 Do we have anyone else that5 would like to testify?6 (No response.)7 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:8 Seeing no one, again, I want to thank all9 of you for coming in. I know it's very10 inconvenient on a Saturday, but I do11 thank you again.12 This Committee will stand in13 recess until Monday, May the 11th at14 10:00 a.m.15 Thank you all very much.16 (Committee of the Whole17 recessed at 12:30 p.m.)18 - - -19 20 21 22 23 24 25 129 1 CERTIFICATE2 I HEREBY CERTIFY that the3 proceedings, evidence and objections are4 contained fully and accurately in the5 stenographic notes taken by me upon the6 foregoing matter on May 9, 2009, and that this7 is a true and correct transcript of same.8 9 10 11 12 13 ______________________________14 MICHELE L. MURPHY15 RPR-Notary Public16 17 18 (The foregoing certification of this19 transcript does not apply to any reproduction20 of the same by any means, unless under the21 direct control and/or supervision of the22 certifying reporter.)23 24 25