COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, June 4, 2009 10:15 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN WILLIAM GREENLEE COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
Good morning. 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 Pastor Keon Gerow of the Catalyst for Change Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Blackwell. At this time, I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
We can assume the position and posture of prayer. Our great God who has brought us from a mighty long way, we give you praise, adoration and thanks for who you are and what you're doing in the lives of these, your people, here in the City of Philadelphia. How grateful we are and humbled, honored even, that you would give us breath in our bodies and the activities of our limbs on this day. God, we pray for every City Council member here. We pray that you will raise up leaders of integrity, morals and ethics to lead this city into a brighter tomorrow. God, we pray for the young people that are gathered here today from Imhotep. Thank you for their victory and championship, not only on the field but also in the classroom. God, we pause to remember, reflect and pray for the young daughter of our community, small, precious, innocent 11-year-old girl who was brutally raped at the hands of her perpetrator and predator. God, we pray for healing in her body, healing in her emotions, healing in her mind. We pray that the community will gather around her to love her, to be there for her, and we pray that justice would take place. We justice will roll down like a mighty river and righteousness like a mighty stream. Now, God, continue to be glorified here in the Chambers. Touch every single individual gathered here on today. And we thank you for unity across the aisles. We pray for our President and every elected leader in the federal government. We pray that you would give them vision that's unparalleled. And we give you praise for what you're going to do in advance. In Jesus' name, amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks Pastor Gerow for his inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, 21st, 2009, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 21st, 2009 stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 21st, 2009 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilman Bill Green.
Thank you. Leave will be granted. The Chair now recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to your Council session. 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. time, the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill, who will present a resolution honoring someone we all know very well, Charles Isdell, Jr., on the occasion of his retirement. Would Mr. Isdell and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Tasco is being joined by Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, Charlie's former colleagues at the Airport, I'd ask them to come up and join Charlie.
Charlie may be surprised this many people came on their own. We are not. I think the Airport has shut down -
The until noon, I believe. This is a resolution honoring Charles Isdell, Jr. on his retirement. Whereas, the Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased to recognize and honor Charles Isdell, Jr. on the occasion of his retirement following a distinguished career of 37 years service to the citizens of Philadelphia; Whereas, Charles Isdell, Jr. has served as Director of Aviation since 2000; and
Whereas, during his time as Director of Aviation, Philadelphia International Airport ranked highest in customer satisfaction for large airports in J.D. Power and Associates' 2008 North American Airport Satisfaction Study; and Whereas, Charles Isdell, Jr. oversaw a master plan for the construction of new international and terminals, and the opening of a connector building between Terminals D and E; and Whereas, Charles Isdell, Jr. has worked at the Airport since 1993, following a successful career with assignments as City purchasing agent, Acting Director of what is now the Greater Philadelphia Film Office and as Manager of the City Representative's Office; and
Whereas, Charles Isdell, Jr. has served the public with energy, commitment and fidelity. He has earned high praise for his efforts and the esteem of both his peers and staff. Now, therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we recognize and honor Charles Isdell, Jr. on the occasion of his retirement after 37 years of outstanding service to the citizens of our region and the City of Philadelphia. resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Charles Isdell, Jr. evidencing the sincere sentiment of this legislative body. This is a certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 22nd day of January 2009. Signed by all Councilmembers and especially Council President Anna Verna.
First, let me say thank you to Councilman O'Neill and Councilwoman Tasco, President Verna, all the members of City Council. So many times over the years we have appeared before this body asking for your help, for your support, budgetary, capital programs, and the support has always been there for the Airport, and on behalf of the Airport and myself, I want to thank you sincerely from the bottom of my heart for the wonderful treatment that we've always experienced here in City Council. I want to thank my wife, Nancy, for being with me today. (Applause.)
For helping me to get to this point. And I really want to say, as I've said to some of the high school students that I'm going to be teaching and have been teaching recently, that the fact that I became the Director of Aviation for the City of Philadelphia is proof that any one of them could become the Director of Aviation or similar position in the City government or elsewhere. I'm just a kid from Mayfair who had a lot of support, a lot of help. I see Deputy Mayor Cutler out there. Thank you. sister, Marie. Thanks, Marie. Mark Gale, the person who is running the Airport today. And without taking up too much of your time, I would say that when I moved to the Airport after 17 years working for various City departments in Center City, the thing that changed my life was meeting other Airport employees like Mark Gale and like some of the people behind me today, highly motivated, caring City employees, self-motivated, who wanted to make our airport and our city a better place. Because of them, I began to study airport management, airport security and other things, because I wanted to be like them. So thank you to all of you. Thanks to everybody who is here today, and God bless you. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Brown, who will present a resolution recognizing Philadelphia native Ms. Hudes. Will Ms. Hudes and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Brown is being joined by Councilwoman Sanchez. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, colleagues and guests, I have come to know Quiara because of one of my favorite arts and cultural institutions here in the City known as Philadelphia Young Playwrights, and what the Philadelphia Young Playwrights teaches young people is that they have a voice worth hearing. They encourage them to make it heard by writing a play. of the alum of the Philadelphia Young Playwrights program, and since her wonderful work there, we should be proud to know that she was nominated for a Tony award for writing the book and the Broadway musical -- who goes to Broadway? (Some audience members raising their hands.)
Who has seen In the Heights currently playing on Broadway? (Some audience members raising their hands.)
Today with us is the writer of In the Heights. She's the winner of the Lucille Lortel Award, Best Musical; Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical; 2008 Tony Award, Best Musical; 2008 Grammy Award for Best Musical; and just this year she is a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Philadelphia has every reason to be proud.
It gives me great pleasure because I'm related to Quiara and she is a fabulous human being and I think a product of not only Philadelphia but of the potential that exists within the Puerto Rican/Latino community. So it gives me great honor to share the stage with my colleague in honoring and recognizing Quiara for all her work at such a young age, and we know she's going to do more fabulous things. And when she gets more famous, we might not be able to get her back in Council, so we wanted to get this in. Recognizing playwright and Philadelphia native Quiara Alegria Hudes on the Broadway debut of her musical In the Heights. Whereas, Playwright Quiara Alegria Hudes is a proud Philadelphia native and a graduate of the Philadelphia public school system; and Whereas, Quiara is the daughter of community activist Virginia Sanchez, sister-in-law, and the stepdaughter of my brother-in-law, Mercedes "Sedo" Sanchez, and the older sister of Gabriella, an aspiring actress who currently attends Philadelphia's Creative and Performing Arts High School; Whereas, Quiara is happily married to her soulmate, Ray Beauchamp, and together they share a beautiful daughter, Cecilia, and reside in the Northern Liberties section our city;
Whereas, Quiara has received much acclaim and has been highlighted in Latina magazine as one of the top young Latinas to watch; and Whereas, Quiara's theatrical work draws heavily on the rich Puerto Rican/Latino heritage of Philadelphia and her experiences growing up in a large extended family in our city; and Whereas, the spirit and energy of Philadelphia's neighborhoods are strongly present in the recent play In Heights; and Whereas, In the Heights made its Broadway debut at the Richard Rogers Theatre on Sunday, March 9th, 2008; and Whereas, In the Heights has been met with ecstatic audiences and critical acclaim from such papers as the Philadelphia Inquirer and the New York Times;
Be it resolved that the Council of the City of Philadelphia hereby recognizes and celebrates Quiara Alegria Hudes on her achievements in the arts and applauds the success of her play In the Heights. May her story and work be an inspiration to all young aspiring artists in Philadelphia for years to come. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy will be presented to Quiara as evidence of the sincere sentiments and recognition of this legislative body. Muchas felicidades. (Applause.)
Thank you so much, Councilwomen. I'm so honored to be in your presence. You're both absolutely role models for me and many other aspiring community leaders here. I do it through writing. You guys do it through government. But thank you both so much. I love the City of Philadelphia. This is incredible for me. I was born and raised in West Philly. The soulmate they mentioned, we met at Central High in the class of 254. We've lived all over the City. We're now mostly residing in New York. So I'm doing my best to represent the City of Philadelphia there. Definitely have not turned into a Mets or Yankees fan yet. Don't plan on it. But I want to thank my family. My husband's parents are here, my parents are here, the staff of Philadelphia Young in 10th grade, they helped me to write and produce my first play, and 16 years later I have a play opened on Broadway. So it's been a wonderful story. I continue to write about the City of Philadelphia and all of its many, many wonderful neighborhoods, like West Philly and North Philly and Chinatown and -COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: South Philly.
South Philly, absolutely. Italian Market. Check that out in my next -- I have an upcoming children's book about the City of Philadelphia that includes the Italian Market in it, a family who works there, Fontaise, Hollywood Meat Market. So thank you all so much. I'm very, very proud to be in this room today. Thank you. (Applause.)
And I do -- the that I should let you guys know I have a children's musical called Barrio Grrrl opening at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in October, and that is about a girl from North Philly who just tries to save every broken heart on her block. So keep your eye out for that, too. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you very much, Madam President. Thank you, Councilwomen. Thank you, Quiara. On behalf of Young Playwrights, I can say it's a very fortunate day for us indeed to be sharing this date with Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, who is our inspiration for always putting the needs of children first, and, of course, the amazing and wonderful Quiara Alegria Hudes, who we've come to know not only as one of America's finest playwrights right now in musical theatre artists, but also for her modesty and grace, and the enthusiasm with which she gives back to her community and specifically to young people is admirable and a model for us all. Thank you for the recognition today of Young Playwrights. Every young person has an important voice worth hearing. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller, who will present a resolution recognizing Imhotep Charter School. Will Mr. Wiggins and those Councilwoman at the podium. I'm sorry. That's Mrs. Wiggins. I apologize. (Applause.)
I see that Councilwoman Miller is being joined by Councilwoman Tasco, Councilwoman Brown and Councilwoman Blackwell. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clarke -- I'm sorry; Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you. Thank you, Madam President. Good morning, everyone. It's certainly an honor to recognize Imhotep. Imhotep is actually one of the, I believe, premiere charter schools, and there's data to support that here in Philadelphia. For nine years in a row, the entire graduating class -- that's 100 percent of the graduating class -- has moved on to post secondary education. (Applause.)
Thank you. This morning, though, we're honoring and recognizing the Imhotep Institute Charter School as the 2009 Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association State Boys Basketball Champions. Whereas, Imhotep Institute Charter School is an African-centered science, math and technology learning center located in the 8th Council District; Whereas, Imhotep Institute formed its first basketball team in its 2005 and 2006 season; and
Whereas, on September 19th, 2008, Imhotep celebrated the opening of their first basketball court on school property; and Whereas, in the 2008-2009 season, under the leadership of Head Coach Andre Noble, Imhotep was victorious in all but one game; and
Whereas, win the Philadelphia Public League Championship and District 8-2A City Championship; and Whereas, on Saturday, March 21, 2009 at Penn State's Bryce Jordan Center -- any Penn Staters in here -- the Imhotep Panthers defeated Pittsburgh North Catholic High School Trojans in double overtime, 76 to 67; and
Whereas, five Panther players scored double digits - seniors Sam Prescott, 21 points -(Applause.)
And whereas, not only is Imhotep Institute Charter School the home of 2009 State Basketball Champions, they have succeeded in academics as well, boasting a 100 percent graduation rate for seven straight years since 2002. (Applause.)
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that Council hereby authorizes, honors and recognizes Imhotep Institute Charter School as the 2009 PIAA State Boys Basketball Champions. Certification, this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 13th day of April 2009. Signed by Anna C. Verna, President of City Council. Introduced by Miller, Blondell Reynolds Brown, Jannie Blackwell and Marian Tasco, and co-sponsored by all members of City Council. (Applause.)
It is with extreme honor that I said this, I need my students to understand that it is very helpful for me, because I cannot do anything except try to be a woman of excellence, when I'm surrounded by these women of excellence that are role models for me, and that's why I have to be the best woman I can in trying to design a school that educates children and works for excellence. To all that are here, understand that Imhotep Institute Charter High School just moved into a $10 million facility, built in this city in an area that supposedly is a blight area, all built, all empowering young businesses to be supportive. And in that building are 525 outstanding young people. With us today, we also brought this year's graduating class. Again, 100 percent graduation, 100 percent going on to post secondary. (Applause.)
And I must make sure that I say with my outstanding coach that he educated me that to have all three of these championships in one year has never happened in the City of Philadelphia or in the history, to have one high school to win all three. And just for Philadelphia, my coach decided when we were playing against Pittsburgh, Philadelphia had to bring that trophy home. So that's why we worked hard. (Applause.)
First of all -Coach, come and help me -- this is the Public League Championship trophy, and it really is historical. It's passed on, to 1916. And it's passed from school to school to school. My team this year is already trying to make sure that it doesn't go anywhere for next year. This one is the State Championship trophy, and then in the front is the plaque, which is the Philadelphia City Championship trophy. All of them we have at the school. We had to go and buy a trophy case just for all of that. At this time, we would like all Imhotep Institute Charter High School senior class to stand. (Senior class standing.) (Applause.)
We also want to call one name out at this time. There is one basketball player missing, but we want to acknowledge Will Adams. If you don't know, Will Adams played that hard game not knowing that he had non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and is in now, so he's not with us, but that's why we want to call his name. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on May 27th and June 3rd, 2009, I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its session on May 21st, 2009, except Bill No. 090244; and I am transmitting herewith for the introduction and consideration of your honorable body an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 55 by striking from the City Plan Duncan Street from Aramingo Avenue to the Delaware Expressway; and An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 63 and 67 by relocating the northeasterly and southwesterly curblines of Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you very much. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of myself, Councilmembers DiCicco and Green, I offer one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Legislative Oversight to hold public hearings to explore the opportunity to implement a permanent SCOPE project to create a simplified and cost-effective process for putting vacant and underutilized City-owned properties back into productive use.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce one bill and five resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Carriers," by adding a new Section 9-408, entitled "Multi-Seat Pedalcycles," to provide for the licensing and regulation of businesses operating multi-seat pedalcycles for hire, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution recognizing the service of Jettie D. Newkirk, Esquire, on the Board of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority.
Thank you, Madam President. This is co-sponsored by Councilman Jones, Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, and I move for its adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution recognizing June 8, 2009 as "Homeless Children and Youth Day," and congratulating Dr. Ellen Bassuk of the National Center on Family Homelessness and the Family Service Provider Network for leadership on the problem of homeless children and youth.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the University of Pennsylvania's proposed amendment to the Institutional Development District Master Plan pursuant to Chapter 14-1107 of The Philadelphia Code relating to "Zoning and Planning."
The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 24th, 51st and 60th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 3rd Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Title 19 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Finance, Taxes and Collections," by adding a new Chapter providing for the recovery of enhanced monetary damages for persons who file false or fraudulent claims with the City.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 55 by striking from the City Plan Duncan Street from Aramingo Avenue to the Delaware Expressway.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer two bills on my behalf, one resolution on behalf of the Administration and two resolutions on your behalf.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Title 21 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Miscellaneous," by adding a new chapter with provisions relating to how and when required notices shall be published and advertised.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Farmers' Markets," by adding as a permissible location the east side of Wadsworth Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
Madam President, point of order, please. We sent out one resolution we shouldn't have. Would you get it, the Administration's resolution. Thank you.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 36th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 36th and 40th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution honoring and recognizing Stenton Park Blue Bandits Soccer Team for capturing the 2009 inaugural Philadelphia Parking Authority/Department of Recreation Indoor Soccer Championship.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam President. I have two resolutions.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution honoring the Philadelphia Portuguese Heritage Commission on the commemoration of Portuguese Day.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 7th, 19th, 23rd, 33rd and 37th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. I have two resolutions, one co-sponsored by yourself, Councilman Goode, Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell and Councilwoman Donna Reed Miller, and then a second co-sponsored by Councilwoman Donna Reed Miller.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution recognizing and celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Father's Day Rally Committee in their efforts to promote positive programs and activities for the African American male population of our great city.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution recognizing and celebrating the Philadelphia Tribune on the occasion of its 125th anniversary serving the African American community in the Greater Philadelphia area.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Madam President. No bills or resolutions today.
Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. One resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 2nd Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have four bills. One of the bills is co-sponsored by Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown and Councilman Curtis Jones.
An ordinance authorizing the Commission on Parks and Recreation to establish Regional Parks and Recreation Advisory Committees, and providing for the powers and responsibilities, and composition, of said Committees; all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 63 and 67 by relocating the northeasterly and southwesterly curblines of Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Ridge Avenue, Sedgley Avenue, Diamond Street and Glennwood Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Bill No. 080588, approved December 22nd, 2008, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Arch Street, 18th Street, Cuthbert Street and 19th Street."
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
The Chief Clerk will please read the resolution.
A resolution honoring Philadelphia Police Detective Robert B. Ballentine, Jr., Badge No. 9063, on the occasion of his retirement from the Philadelphia Police Department.
Madam President, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution recognizing, honoring, celebrating and thanking the Philadelphia African Baptist Church of Philadelphia for its invaluable contributions to the City of Philadelphia on the occasion of its 200th anniversary.
The resolution -- I believe that's in my district. You did have me cosign it; did you not?
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, I move the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution recognizing, honoring and celebrating the insulators and allied workers, Local 14, a Philadelphia-based organization of skilled workers, for its invaluable contributions to the public and to the commercial infrastructure in the City of Philadelphia.
Madam President, I move for the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I'd just like to take a moment. I'd like to welcome Ryan Petteroff today to City Council. He's visiting with his grandmother, Pat Petteroff. Many of us remember the late great Fran Petteroff Egan, who was one of our best State Reps from Northeast Philadelphia and also was our L&I Commissioner. Ryan is her nephew, and I want him and the Petteroff family to know that we miss his Aunt Fran greatly and miss her service to the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you. If you would stand, we'd like (Applause.)
The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Rules reports out ten bills with favorable recommendations.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 090128, entitled "An ordinance continuing the East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District beyond its termination date"; and Bill No. 090169, entitled "An Philadelphia Zoning Maps located in an area bounded by Berks Street, Delaware Avenue, Market Street and Interstate 95"; and Bill No. 090170, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by adding a new Section 14-1636, entitled 'Central Delaware Riverfront Overlay District'"; and Bill No. 090348, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by amending Section 14-1619, entitled 'Frankford Avenue Special District Controls'"; and Bill No. 090349, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by creating a new Section 14-1636, entitled 'Delaware River Conservation District'"; and Bill No. 090354, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 14-400 of The Code, entitled 'Commercial Entertainment District'"; and Bill No. 090359, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 146 and 271 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Shackamaxon Street from Delaware Avenue southeastwardly"; and Bill No. 090381, entitled "An ordinance amending the Philadelphia Zoning Maps located within an area bounded by Broad Street, Delaware Expressway, Pattison Avenue, Packer Avenue"; and Bill No. 090392, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps located within an area bounded by Wyoming Avenue, Ramona Avenue, Adams Avenue and Castor Avenue"; and Bill No. 090408, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps located approximately 220 feet north of Cumberland Street, the River, a line located approximately 328 feet south of Berks Street, Beach Street, Richmond Street, Schirra Drive, Beach Street and Cumberland Street," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 090128, 169, 170, 348, 349, 354, 359, 381, 392 and 408. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the Committee on Finance.
Madam President, the Committee on Finance reports out three bills and one resolution with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Finance, Bill No. 090288, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commerce Director to file an application with the Commonwealth's Department of Community and Economic Development under the Main Street Program in an aggregate amount not to exceed $1 million to assist in the revitalization of the Lancaster Avenue Commercial Corridor"; and Bill No. 090352, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Office of City Treasurer, on behalf of the City, to enter into an agreement with Wachovia Bank"; and Bill No. 090437, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Director of Housing, on behalf of the City, to file applications with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for a Community Development Block Grant"; and Resolution No. 090451, approving the City's Substantial Amendment to the Year 34 Consolidated the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for $14,046,629 in additional Community Development Block Grant funding," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached resolution and bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from the committee. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Resolution No. 090451 will be considered at the end of today's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Public Property and Public Works reports two bills and one resolution with favorable recommendations.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Property and Public Works, to which was referred Bill No. 090289, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to acquire fee simple title, or a lesser interest in real estate, in parcels of land along the Delaware River and the K&T Trail"; and Bill No. 090361, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Procurement Commissioner, on behalf of the City, to enter into an agreement with Motorola for the upgrade of the City's 800 megahertz trunked municipal radio communications system"; and A resolution approving the City of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Emergency 9-1-1 2008 Triennial Plan as an amendment to the City's 9-1-1 Plan, as required by the Pennsylvania Public Safety Emergency Telephone Act," respectfully reports it the same and returns the attached bills and resolution to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 090289 and 090361. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Resolution No. 090423 will be considered at the end of today's Calendar. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports 25 bills out with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Streets and Services, to which was referred Bill No. 090122, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-604 of The Code, entitled 'Refuse Collection,' by increasing the annual license fee for the various licenses required by that Section"; and Bill No. 090123, entitled "An ordinance amending the provisions of The Philadelphia Code regulating dumpsters, all under certain terms and conditions"; and Bill No. 090259, entitled "An ordinance authorizing William Schoepe to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 4000 Spruce Street"; and Bill No. 090262, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-211 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Boxes for the Distribution of News and Printed Material'"; and Bill No. 090266, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Dahlia Osman to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 1001 South 10th Street"; and Bill No. 090290, entitled "An of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 46-S within an area bounded by 26th Street, the Schuylkill Expressway and Penrose Avenue"; and Bill No. 090291, entitled "An ordinance establishing a no parking regulation on the 5200 block of Marshall Street, from Fisher Avenue to Duncannon Avenue"; and Bill No. 090320, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of 7th Street and Godfrey Avenue"; and Bill No. 090329, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Farmers' Markets,' by adding a permissible location on the sidewalk of the west side of South 18th Street between Walnut and Locust"; and Bill No. 090382, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 12-3000 of The Philadelphia Code by authorizing the enforcement systems at the intersection of Rising Sun Avenue at Adams Avenue"; and Bill No. 090386, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 12-3000 of The Philadelphia Code by authorizing the installation of red light enforcement systems at the intersection of Henry Avenue at Walnut Lane"; and Bill No. 090387, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-208 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Sidewalk Cafes,' by permitting sidewalk cafes to be maintained on Ridge Avenue, both sides, between Rochelle Avenue and Domino Lane"; and Bill No. 090388, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Farmers' Markets,' by adding as a permissible location Canal View Park"; and Bill No. 090391, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 12-3000 of The Philadelphia Code by authorizing the enforcement systems at the intersection of Aramingo Avenue at York Street"; and Bill No. 090402, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Ralph Picket to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 3900 Chestnut Street"; and Bill No. 090403, entitled "An ordinance authorizing certain existing underground improvements owned by the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia in the vicinity of South 34th Street and Civic Center Boulevard"; and Bill No. 090409, entitled "An ordinance establishing a one way regulation on Belgrade Street, from Ash Street to Pratt Street"; and Bill No. 090406, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Sidewalk Sales,' by prohibiting sidewalk sales on portions of Broad Street, Venango Street, Tioga Street and Ontario Street"; and 090407, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 12-3000 of The Philadelphia Code by authorizing the installation of red light enforcement systems at the intersection of Aramingo Avenue at Castor Avenue"; and Bill No.
090409, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the National Park Service to construct, own and maintain a building encroachment and steps at 530 Market Street"; and Bill No. 090436, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Adam Ritter to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 2201 Christian Street"; and Bill No. 090438, entitled "An ordinance establishing a no truck parking regulation on Vernon Road, from Cheltenham Avenue to Michener Avenue"; and Bill No. 090441, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the paving of 4th Street from Westmoreland Street to Street"; and Bill No. 090442, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 157 by placing on the City Plan 4th Street from Westmoreland Street to Ontario Street"; and Bill No. 090444, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapters 10-611 and 12-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled, respectfully, 'Sidewalk Behavior' and 'Bicycle Regulations and Penalties,' to authorize the Department of Streets to designate sidewalks on which bicycle riding is permissible," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the 25 bills that have just been read into the record. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Brown for a report from the Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs.
Thank you, on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs reports six bills with a favorable recommendation. In addition, the Committee submits a report pursuant to Resolution 090057.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, to which was referred Bill No. 090098, entitled "An ordinance renaming and designating Fotteral Square Playground as the 'James Young Memorial Playground'"; and Bill No. 090192, entitled "An ordinance renaming and designating the park located at the intersection of Germantown Avenue, York Street and North 8th Street as the 'Danny Boyle Community Park'"; and 090210, entitled "An ordinance renaming and designating the McAlpin Playground located at 36th and Aspen Street as the 'Miles Mack Playground'"; and Bill No. 090327, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the President of the Fairmount Park Commission to enter into a Master Lease, under which PAID will be required to enter into an agreement pursuant to which PAID will sublease the property to Northwestern Stables, Inc."; and Bill No. 090330, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the President of the Fairmount Park Commission to enter into a Master Lease and under which PAID will be required to enter into an agreement pursuant to which PAID will sublease the property to the Philadelphia Holocaust Remembrance Foundation"; and Bill No. 090443, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Executive Director of Fairmount Park and under a sublease with the Fairmount Park Historic Preservation Trust," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. And in addition, after conducting the required hearings pursuant to Resolution No. 090057, entitled "Resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs to hold public hearings for applicants seeking nomination to serve on the Commission on Parks and Recreation, and further authorizing the Committee to recommend for Council's consideration nominations to be forwarded to the Mayor," respectfully reports it has developed a list of recommended names and submits them to Council in the attached report with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 090098, 090192, 090210, 090327, 090330 and 090443. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair at this time a report from the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Commerce and Economic Development reports three bills with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development, to which was referred Bill No. 090012, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Business Privilege Taxes,' by providing for the 'New Philadelphia Job Creation Tax Credit'"; and Bill No. 090353, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 19-2604 of The Philadelphia Code by amending the provisions providing a credit for corporations"; and Bill No. 090389, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commerce Director to file an application with the Commonwealth's Department of Community and Economic Development under the Main Street Program in an aggregate amount not to exceed $1,306,000 to support the City's various Main Street programs," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 090012, 090353 and 090389. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. We do have a special business. Council will proceed under a special order of business, a resolution re-calling Bill No. 090015-A, and at this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution, and because this resolution was not circulated yesterday, I move that the of Council be suspended to permit consideration of the resolution at this time. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit consideration of Councilman DiCicco's resolution at this time. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution requesting the Mayor to return to Council Bill No. 090015-A, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-212 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Newsstands,' to permit the placement of commercial on newsstands and revise the fees for a newsstand license," for the purpose of reconsideration by the Council of the vote by which said bill passed Council.
The Chair again recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution has passed. The Chief Clerk will please the letter from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am returning herewith, as requested by your resolution adopted today, Bill No. 090015-A, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-212 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Newsstands,' to permit the placement of commercial advertising on newsstands and revise the fee for a newsstand license, all under certain terms and conditions," for the purpose of reconsideration by the Council of the vote by which said bill passed Council.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a motion that Council reconsider the vote by which Bill No. 090015-A was passed. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: So moved, Madam President. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the motion carries, and the vote by which Bill No. 090015-A was passed has been reconsidered. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer an amendment to Bill No. 090015-A. A copy of the amendment has been circulated to all members of Council and I would move for the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the amendment to Bill No. 090015-A be All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and Bill No. 090015-A has been amended. This bill will be placed on our Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. We will now consider a resolution re-calling Bill No. 090244. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution, and because this resolution was not circulated yesterday, I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit consideration of the resolution at this time. (Duly seconded.)
It been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit consideration of Councilwoman Tasco's resolution at this time. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution requesting the Mayor to return to Council Bill No. 090244, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-2700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Sales and Use Tax and Hotel Occupancy Tax,' by revising the rate of tax, under certain terms and conditions," for the purpose of reconsideration by the Council of the vote by which said bill passed Council.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution has passed. The Clerk will please read the letter from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am returning herewith, as requested by your resolution adopted June 4th, 2009, Bill No. 090244, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 19-2700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Sales and Use Tax and Hotel Occupancy Tax,' by revising the rate of tax, under certain terms and conditions," for the purpose of reconsideration by the Council of the vote by which said bill passed Council.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion that Council reconsider the vote by which Bill No. 090244 was passed.
All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the carries, and the vote by which Bill No. 090244 was passed has been reconsidered. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer an amendment to Bill 090244. A copy of the amendment has been circulated to all members of Council. I move for the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the amendment to Bill No. 090244 be adopted. All in favor please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and Bill No. 090244 has been amended. This bill will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution co-sponsored by Councilman Clarke and Councilman Jones and supported by all members of City Council.
The Chief Clerk will please read the resolution.
A resolution nominating 25 individuals for consideration by the Mayor as appointees to the Commission on Parks and Recreation.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be submitted to the Mayor. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committee with a suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. The bills will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. The Chief Clerk will please read any other bills on the First Reading Calendar. I don't believe there are any.
Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for the purpose of calling up bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Madam President. Bill Nos. 080901 and 090324 are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for today. All other bills are being held.
I don't think that's so. Councilwoman Sanchez, your bill is okay to go?
Yes. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman 6/4/09 - STATED - 2ND READING Sanchez.
Madam President, let me finish introducing the bills. I'm sorry.
Bill Nos. 080901, 090324 and Resolution 090451 are being called up for Final Passage Calendar today. All other bills are being held.
Councilwoman, how about Bill No. 090324 on the last page? Councilwoman, I believe Bill No. 080381 should be called up.
That's a 6/4/09 - STATED - 2ND READING withdrawal, yes.
And it's my understanding Councilman DiCicco will ask that that be withdrawn. Bill No. 080901, also Bill No. 090075. That will be a request to refer back to committee. And then we have Bill No. 090324.
Thank you. All other bills are being held. Okay. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080381.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Delaware Avenue, Fairmount Avenue, Front Street and Poplar Street.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. 6/4/09 - STATED - 2ND READING COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. At this time, I make a motion that Bill No. 080381 be withdrawn. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and seconded at the request of the sponsor Bill No. 080381 be withdrawn. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of Bill No. 080901.
An ordinance continuing the Chestnut Hill Business Improvement District beyond the date of termination of the District in the area that generally includes both sides of Germantown Avenue from 7640 to 8705, both sides of Bethlehem Pike from 10 to 105, and certain blocks of streets that 6/4/09 - STATED - 2ND READING intersect that portion of Germantown Avenue and for which the Chestnut Hill Business Improvement District.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 090075.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-600 of The Philadelphia Code to establish the Advanced Recovery Fee for disposable shopping bags, all under certain terms and conditions.
Again, the Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. As you know, this legislation was approved unanimously by the Committee on the Environment. While 6/4/09 - STATED - 2ND READING most members recognize and support the intent of this legislation, a number have asked for additional conversation regarding this bill. I believe that such a conversation is best held in committee and also believe that the discussion should include an outright ban. Therefore, I move that Bill No. 090075 be referred back to the Committee on the Environment. And I'd also like to take this opportunity, Madam President, to recognize students from the Belmont Charter School and their teacher, Julie Mandolini-Trummel. They are here today in what they thought would be support of the bill. So I'd ask them to please rise and be recognized. (Applause.)
It has been moved and seconded that Bill No. 6/4/09 - STATED - 2ND READING 090075 be referred back to committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. We will now consider Bill No. 090324.
An ordinance authorizing the issuance of one or more series of general obligation bonds to provide funds to refund certain outstanding general obligation bonds of the City of Philadelphia and agreements to manage interest costs and certain other actions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. 6/4/09 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. 6/4/09 - STATED - 2ND READING The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning I was ready and prepared to move this bill, but at the request of the Mayor, I have held the bill for a week, but I wanted to read into the record his commitment on Council Bill 090292, which is he fully understands the importance of this issue and obviously the spirit in which this Council has operated even prior to my joining it around the support and the protection of worker rights and ensuring prevailing wage -- prevailing and liveable wages. And I look forward to working with the Administration over the next week to ensure that we accomplish that, but I fully intend to call for a vote next week. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes 6/4/09 - STATED - 2ND READING Councilwoman Tasco for a motion on Resolution No. 090451.
Madam President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. I guess I'm moving much too fast. We didn't read the resolution. Please.
Resolution No. 090451, a resolution approving the City's Substantial Amendment to the Year 34 6/4/09 - STATED - 2ND READING Consolidated Plan and application to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for $14,046,629 in additional Community Development Block Grant funding for economic development and housing activities pursuant to funds made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
Well, I'll tell you, with all that money available, I'm going to recognize Councilwoman Tasco again for a motion on Resolution No. 090451.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? (No response.) 6/4/09 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title. What are we waiting for?
Resolution No. 090423, a resolution approving the City of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Emergency 9-1-1 2008 Triennial Plan as an amendment to the City's 9-1-1 Plan, as required by the Pennsylvania Public Safety Emergency Telephone Act.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. That concludes our Calendar for today. Are there speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I have some comments I'm going to make this morning that are very, very important to me and I feel very passionately about, and I'm sure that my colleagues share the same concerns and others may also share the concerns about which I plan to address. On December 2005, my colleagues and I passed legislation creating the independent Board of Ethics, and on May 16th, 2006, the Philadelphia voters approved the Board's creation in a referendum, with the expectation that this Board and its staff consist of strong, independent people of the highest integrity who will realize, above all else, that they were empowered with the public trust. However, in the May 27th edition of the Philadelphia Inquirer, the headline read "Board of Ethics Fines Own Director." The article discloses that the Executive Director, Shane Creamer, violated the confidentiality provision of the City's ethics laws, citing Mr. Creamer's off-the-record conversation investigations that were to remain confidential. This article in the Philadelphia Inquirer appeared four days after a similar story ran in the Philadelphia Daily News on May 23rd, the Saturday before Memorial Day weekend. This headline read, "Ethics Chief had a lapse. He's fined for talking about probe with the Daily News." The story appeared on Saturday because the Ethics Board released a story at 5:00 p.m. Friday, surely when they thought no one would notice. A Philadelphia Inquirer editorial that appeared in yesterday's edition gave kudos to the Ethics Board for citing its own Executive Director for unethical conduct by breaching confidentiality rules when speaking to a reporter. But I ask you and all of you, what faith can we have in the Ethics Board in light of the unethical practice of its Executive Director? that despite being an embarrassing episode, Shane Creamer's sanction could build credibility for the Board. I couldn't disagree more. Under Chapter 20-200, Standards of Conduct and Ethics of The Philadelphia Code, anyone who violates ethics laws is subject to a $2,000 fine per incident. The $500 fine Shane Creamer received is nothing more than a slap on the wrist. With this sanction, the Board merely trivialized the behavior of its own Executive Director. Shane Creamer's lapse in judgment and unethical behavior has breached the public confidence and consequently compromised the public trust. How can we enforce ethics laws when there is a two-tiered standard of ethics, one for the Board and one for everybody else? I am expressing my outrage and are offended by Mr. Creamer's reckless behavior. The good government advocate, Zack Stalberg and the Committee of Seventy, who are usually very vocal when they perceive public officials have done something wrong, have been uncharacteristically silent about this issue. Once again, is there a two-tiered standard of ethics? I have expressed my concerns with the Mayor, and I'm awaiting his response. If we are to maintain a Board of the highest order authorized to enforce our ethics laws, we must preserve the public trust. Therefore, Mr. Creamer must be removed immediately from his position as the Executive Director of the Ethics Board. (Applause.)
In fact, I believe he tendered his resignation when he decided to engage in unethical conduct. this Board must be like that of Caesar's wife, above even the suspicion of wrongdoing. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you, Madam President. I would like to raise the light on two issues that have happened recently in the press. I join the many citizens who were saddened over the bicycle accident where a father and son recreating together were hit where Benjamin Franklin Parkway meets Martin Luther King Drive. Our crown jewel, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, is one of the great city boulevards in America and, we all know, home to our world-renowned cultural institutions. I join the many who believe that we are beginning to treat a highway. As we move towards becoming a more sustainable and green city, Philadelphia must also become more pedestrian and bicycle friendly. I concur with the important questions raised in the recent editorial asking who indeed is ultimately responsible for creating a plan. Is it the Planning Commission? Is it the Deputy Mayor for Transportation? Is the Department of Parks and Recreation responsible or the institutions on the Parkway? I welcome feedback and invite all users from the community to join with them in creating a solution, and ultimately pray for a full recovery of that young man. To a more tragic incident, Madam President. While our President, Barack Obama, and some might argue Professor Barack Obama, as recently as this morning, spoke eloquently about the rights of women on the international level, we will be remiss not to remain reminded about what is happening to the rights of women on the local level. I reference and acknowledge and condemn the murder of Dr. George Tiller of Wichita, Kansas. Murdered while serving as an usher at his church, Dr. Tiller was one of the few physicians in America that performs late-term abortions. He provided critical reproductive healthcare services, including abortion services, to women facing some of the most difficult medical circumstances in their lives. Indeed, he showed deep compassion to his patients. It is worth noting that all groups on all sides of the abortion debate have condemned the murder of Dr. Tiller, including the National Right to Life Committee, who offered the following statement, and I quote: "The National Right to Life Committee unequivocally condemns any such acts of violence, regardless of motivation. The protect the right to life and increase respect for human life. The unlawful use of violence is directly contrary to that goal." I join with the National Right to Life Committee in condemning this tragic murder. I thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. Last week, New Castle, Delaware decided to take a strategy of raising their real estate taxes by 20 percent. I would like to note that this body went a different direction facing similar possibility of service cuts. I'd like to point out, however, our work is yet undone, that with the same energy that we went and fought the good fight about the battle of the budget, that we need to now take up and do some of the heavy lifting at the state level so that we can get the sales tax passed. So our relationships at the state level should be used to move that particular budget step forward, and I would encourage all of our members here to take advantage of those contacts to make sure that our Mayor doesn't go it alone. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. Are there any other speeches on the part of the majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, June the 11th, 2009, 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, June the 11th at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. Thank you. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 12:00 p.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on June 4, 2009, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. ______________________________ MICHELE L. MURPHY RPR-Notary Public (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)