COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Thursday, 9/14/00 10:10 a.m. Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILMAN FRANK J. DICICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN W. THACHER LONGSTRETH COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN ANGEL L. ORTIZ COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, Chief Clerk VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103 GREETING/INVOCATION P R O C E E D I N G S
Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. The Council will come to order, Members will take their seats, and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Reverend Lawrence Crehan, from St. Jerome's Roman Catholic Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Kenney. All Members and guests will please rise. (All rise.)
Thank you, Madam President. Some of you may not be familiar with St. Jerome's, so I've brought for each of the Councilmembers a little biography of St. Jerome's and a little bookmark. If you wish more, they are in Councilman Kenney's office. Let us pray. O, God, you tell us that a house which is divided cannot survive. So, Lord, we pray for GREETING/INVOCATION this City Council that they may be one, even as you and your son are one. You have consecrated them in truth. Your word is truth. Protect them, Lord, by Your truth from petty jealousies, hidden agendas, and getting caught up in silly things. Let them heed the call of Isaiah and not pay you, nor the people they serve, mere lip service. Keep their minds and their hearts close to their people. Let them follow the example of Jesus and empty themselves in service, for that is how they will show their greatness. Send Your Holy Spirit upon them, enlighten them with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge. There are many important issues and decisions they will face every day. Bless them with good advisors and staff so that the members of City Council may discern and respond to the promptings of Your spirit. No one, not even You, God, can please everybody. So let them listen to You and be faithful to the sacred trust that You have given them, protecting life and seeking the common good over personal or selfish desires. Bless their families, who bear the brunt of the GREETING/INVOCATION long hours, the bad moods, the petty frustrations which this job can bring. Let their families be their blessing, their homes a holy sanctuary of peace and love. Let the members of Council notice all of the little people who work in and around City Hall. Help the Councilmembers to appreciate these people and to listen to them, for they are Your voice crying out in need. Help us, Lord, to remember that we are all brothers and sisters and that You are the father of us all. Lord, we pray You make us one. In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, amen. ALL: Amen.
The Chair thanks Father Crehan for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of June 22, 2000, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell. JOURNAL APPROVAL, LEAVES OF ABSENCE
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of that date be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, June 22, 2000 stand approved. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Journal of Thursday, June 22, 2000 stands approved.
The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. There are no requests for leaves of absence on the part of the Majority.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. VISITOR RECOGNITION The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the Republicans, there are no requests for leaves of absence.
The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business, recognizing the guests and visitors joining in us chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session this morning. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. The Chair takes pleasure in welcoming a special visitor this morning, Mayor John F. Street, who is here for the purpose of signing Bill No.'s 000336, 000354 and 000451. Mr. Mayor? (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Street for remarks. SIGNING OF BILLS 000336, 354, 451
Thank you very much. And good morning. I am absolutely delighted and pleased to be here today to do something we don't often do when we adopt pieces of legislation. Every now and then, though, legislation rises to the point of significance in the development of our city, where we want to call attention to it and recognize that it is in some respects landmark legislation. And I am even more pleased to be able to be here because these bills are not administration bills; they're City Council bills. And as most of you know, I spent a fair number of years laboring in the vineyards of the City Council of Philadelphia and hold this legislative body in the highest esteem. And the one group in this city that I believe do not get a fair share of the credit when good things happen are the members of this body and this body. And it is a very special pleasure to be able to be here to sign these bills, which I think lay the groundwork for enhancing a part of this economy that is very important to our future. I SIGNING OF BILLS 000336, 354, 451 wouldn't want anybody to believe that this city isn't prepared for and participating in the new economy. There are today over 200 new economy businesses that are taking place right here in our city almost without notice, and we have the infrastructure necessary in order to be able to facilitate the growth and development of those businesses. But what we do today is a take a step forward, a very significant step forward, in encouraging new economy businesses to grow and develop and settle in our great city, and I want to congratulate all of the members of City Council who were a part of both the drafting, the crafting and the passage of these bills, not the least of which is Council President Verna. Now, there are a number of people who are here from the business community -- someone was supposed to give me a list of names; that list never got to me. COMMERCE DIRECTOR: That's me, Mr. Mayor. I apologize.
The Commerce Director was supposed to give me the list of names. He is SIGNING OF BILLS 000336, 354, 451 fessing up, he didn't do it. But we appreciate everyone in the business community and in the community at large, and especially some of our Councilmembers, who have been really very, very supportive of this initiative, and are delighted to be here today to sign these bills. (Mayor Street signs bills.)
Thank you, Madam President. I have two groups that are visiting with me here this morning. One group is from my district. They're residents of a home run by Resources for Human Development, and they're consumers, mental health consumers, that are learning their rights. And accompanying them is Diane Sutton, who's the program assistant, and; KOREAN-AMERICAN DELEGATES Mr. Anthony Bell Horace Baker and Tony Webers. They're here, and I'd like to welcome them this morning.
If they would stand, we would be pleased to recognize them. (Applause.)
Okay. In addition, we have some visitors from a delegation of individuals from the city Eun Chen, Korea. With us this morning is Mr. Sam Eun Park, who is vice mayor; Mr. John Lee, director of international affairs division; Mr. Hean-Chan Sim, deputy director, investment division. They're here to be a part of a ribboncutting ceremony for the opening of the trade office that the sister city program between Philadelphia and the city of Eun Chen Korea, and they're accompanied by members of the Korean-American Association: Mr. Adam Kim, who is the president and others, and Miss Nancy Gillboy (ph.), from International Visitors Bureau. Mr. Park, vice mayor, would like to say KOREAN-AMERICAN DELEGATES a few words.
Certainly we would welcome him. Please approach the podium. (Mr. Park and interpreter come forward.)
I appreciate your welcome of our Eun Chen delegation. We especially thank Madam President Anna Verna and the other Councilmen and women this morning. It is a great honor to meet Madam President and the Councilmen and women, who have such great leadership and the respect of the citizens. And it is also a privilege to be in Philadelphia City Council, which has been the foundation of American liberty and freedom. I am confident that the opening of the Eun Chen trade office will provide a great opportunity for active exchanges of trade and culture between the two cities, and I would like to extend my invitation to Madam President and the Councilpersons to visit Eun Chen in the near future. I wish for the prosperity and health of the City of Philadelphia and the City. And thank COMMUNICATIONS you. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the clerk. The clerk will read the messages from the mayor.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise that I have signed Bill No. 000221 that passed Council at its session on June 15th. And also I have signed all of the bills that passed Council at its last session, on June 22nd, except Bill No. 000088. And I am transmitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution authorizing the Director of Commerce, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to file an application, and if the application is accepted, to execute a contract a obtain a grant from the Department of Community and Economic Development, as amended, to COMMUNICATIONS prevent and eliminate blight and to support comprehensive economic development programs in the American Street, Hunting Park West, Port of Philadelphia, and West Parkside Enterprise Zones. An ordinance amending Title 22 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "City of Philadelphia Public Employees Retirement Code," to provide that a police officers injured, as a result of performing heroic action in the line of duty, are exempted from the earned income offset applied to members receiving service-connected disability benefits, and amending the amount of offset with respect to other police officers, all under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2001 with the Grants Revenue Fund from the Director of Finance Provision for Other Grants to the Department of License and inspections. And an ordinance authorizing the creation of a loan or loans to provide funds for and toward various capital municipal purposes, authorizing the Mayor, City Controller, and City Solicitor, or a majority of them, to sell bonds at COMMUNICATIONS the public or private negotiated sale, setting forth the capital purposes and the amounts for which the proceeds of the loan or loans will be expending, providing for the maturities and for other terms and conditions and for the forms of bonds from the Sinking Fund for the bonds and for appropriations to the Sinking Fund Commission for the payment thereof, authorizing agreements to provide credit for payment or liquidity sources for the bonds and certain other actions providing for obtaining the consent of the electors to increasing the indebtedness of the City of Philadelphia, fixing a date for holding the election for obtaining such consent and providing for the arrangements for holding such election.
The messages will be printed in the Journal. The clerk will read any other communications in her possession.
The next order of business is the introduction of bills and INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS resolutions and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning, I have one resolution.
I'm sorry, Councilwoman, would you please ask for a you suspension.
I'm sorry, Madam President, I'm moving ahead too quickly. Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of their introduction. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the motion is INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS carried. We will now consider a special order of business, a resolution recalling Bill No. 000088. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution requesting the Mayor to return to Council Bill No. 000088, an ordinance amending Title 17 of the Philadelphia Code relating to contracts and procurement by amending Chapter 17-400, entitled "Goals for the Participation of Minority, Female, and DisabledOwned Business in City Contracts" to extend the life of the Minority Business Enterprise Council, grant authority to MBEC to monitor participation of minority, female, and disabled-owned business and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals in all City contracts, City agencies, and quasi-public agencies, and to require regular reporting to City Council, all under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS recognizes Councilman Clarke. (Councilman Clarke approaches the podium to confer with Council President off the record.)
Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor of adopting the resolution will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The clerk will 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, your resolution adopted September 14, 2000, Bill No. 000088, an ordinance amending Title 17 of the Philadelphia Code relating to the contracts and procurement by amending Chapter INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS 17-500 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Goals for the Participation of Minority, Female, and Disabled-Owned Business in City Contracts -
I don't want to be rude, but I would just ask the clerk to read the letter more slowly.
-- to extend the life of the Minority Business Enterprise Council, grant authority to MBEC, to monitor participation of minority, female, and disabled-owned business, and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals in all City contracts, City agencies, and City quasi-public agencies, and to require regular reporting to City Council, all under certain terms and conditions, for the purpose of reconsideration by the Council of the vote by which said bill passed Council.
Councilman Cohen, do you want to be recognized again?
Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Councilman Clarke for a motion that the City Council reconsider the vote by which Bill No. 000088 was passed.
All those in favor will please signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it, and the clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 000088.
An ordinance amending Title 17 of the Philadelphia Code relating to the contracts and procurement by amending Chapter 17-500, entitled "Goals for the Participation of Minority, Female, and Disabled-Owned Business" in City contracts, to extend the life of the Minority Business Enterprise Council, grant authority to MBEC to monitor participation of minority, female, disabled-owned businesses and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals in all City contracts, City agencies and quasi-public agencies, and to require regular reporting to City Council, all under certain terms and conditions. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill by which -- the vote by which Bill No. 000088 was passed has been reconsidered. This bill, having been approved and reconsidered, is now before us. I understand that Councilman Clarke will be offering an amendment to this bill. However, the amendment is presently being prepared. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Do you have it now?
Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't realize it. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for the amendment.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer an amendment to Bill No. 000088.
Section 1. Title 17 of the Philadelphia Code is hereby amended to read as follows: "Title 17, Contracts and Procurement. Chapter 17-500, Goals for the Participation of Minority, Female, and Disabled-Owned Business in City Contracts. Quasi-public agency shall mean any board or commission to which the Mayor or the Council is entitled to an appointment and any authority or quasi-public corporation that either receives appropriations from the City or has entered into a continual contractual relationship with the City, or operates under legal authority INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS granted to it by City ordinance. "Section 17-504, Minority Business Enterprise council. MBEC's authority and responsibility shall be to issue a report to City Council every six months that outlines the participation of minority, female, and disabledowned businesses and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals in contracts with the City of Philadelphia, its agencies, and all quasi-public agencies. This requirement shall continue to apply notwithstanding the expiration of the effective date of this chapter or any judicial determinations concerning the legality of any of the substantive requirements of this chapter."
Madam President, I move for the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the amendment be adopted. All those in favor will signify by INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS saying aye.
I'm sorry. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
In A, receives appropriation from the City, and this subsection B and C, do developments that get TIFs and other type of assistance from the City and that we excuse from paying taxes come under the MBEC authority and responsibility?
I just want to make that very clear that all of those and also -- that it's not an appropriation per se what we give.
Yes. The purpose was to extend it to agencies that oversaw those types of developments.
Councilman Nutter, do you wish to be recognized?
No, Madam INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS President.
I'd just like for Councilman Clarke to explain what we're doing here.
Thank you, Madam President. Councilwoman Tasco, the purpose for the recall of the bill, there was some technical glitches in the original Bill 000088. The purpose -- the original intent of the bill was to require that MBEC oversee agencies that were not traditionally overseen by that particular authority, such as all quasi-public agencies, such as Penn's Landing, PIDC, and other types of agencies. And, increasingly, those particular types of agencies have been a part of development INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS strategies that require taxpayers' dollars, so we thought that MBEC should also monitor those types of agencies.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the amendment be adopted. All in -
I just wanted further clarification on one phase of it. I'm in support of what exists, but I wanted to know, is there any provision which requires that a company, which is not a quasi-public agency, but which receives an appropriation or benefit from the City in the form of a TIF, for example, or an abatement, is that company required to meet the standards of the Minority Business Enterprise INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Council?
It requires the agency who monitors the project, such as -- as an example, if PIDC enters into an agreement with the development entity, it requires that MBEC can oversee PIDC's monitoring of that particular development. But we do not directly contract the developer per se; it's the agencies that oversee the development.
Are there any other questions from members of the committee? (No further questions.)
Thank you. Again, it has been properly moved and seconded that the amendment be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it. The bill, as amended, will be ordered and printed to be placed on the final-reading calendar for our next INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS meeting. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer three resolutions. One is privileged, so I'd like to seek approval today, and three are non-privileged, which I request be referred to the appropriate committees.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution commending and congratulating St. Joseph's Prep on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the founding of this revered Philadelphia institution. And a resolution authorizing City Council's Legislative Oversight Committee to hold public hearings on strategies to increase foreign immigration to Philadelphia and to improve the immigrant experience within Philadelphia.
The first one was for St. Joseph's. Could we consider them individually, please. Would you read the first one again.
A resolution commending INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS and congratulating St. Joseph's Prep on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the founding of this revered Philadelphia institution.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the seconds resolution.
A resolution authorizing the City Council's Legislative Oversight Committee to hold public hearings on strategies to increase foreign immigration to Philadelphia and to improve the immigrant experience within Philadelphia.
This INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing City Council's Public Property Committee to hold public hearings on the Philadelphia Gas Works with regards to its rates, finances, management, governance, and practices.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing City Council's Public Property Committee to hold public hearings on the needs of the Central Library with regard to capital improvements and issues related to the ability of the Central Library to fulfill its mission in light of the changing community needs.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS This morning, I have just one resolution on your behalf, two bills from me, and two bills by request.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution memorializing the conduct of both uniformed and civilian employees of the City of Philadelphia, the citizens of the City, and those protestors who managed to deliver their messages without damaging property and unduly interfering with the rights of others during the year 2000 Republican National Convention held in the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Thank you, Madam INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS President. Every four years is a -- an important occasion comes, and that's when the major political parties of the country and the would-be major political parties get together and discuss the agenda for the next four years. And it's all in connection with the election of the most important officials within the United States: the president and the vice president. A lot of attention is directed to those events, wherever they are held. And, like most Philadelphians, I indeed very happy that Philadelphia was again chosen, not for the first time, because it's happened on a number of previous occasions, that Philadelphia was chosen to be the site of the Republican Convention. These conventions draw attention of all people that are beginning to think about the country and what its policies ought to be over the next four years. Delegates to the various conventions are often engaged in developing programs and platforms. And people throughout the country who have differing opinions or who feel INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS issues are being neglected by the major political parties often decide that they need a platform to express their views and to attempt to influence the views of the major political organizations. And that happens every four years. " We had one in Philadelphia that was very interesting in its formation. But generally speaking, people who have different views have to find ways of expressing those views. And everybody who is familiar with the holding of conventions knows that this is an occasion where people who want to have the major political parties consider programs that they believe are not being given the proper attention, that these people are going to gather and try to impress upon the delegates to the major convention the issues and concerns that they have that they feel are being neglected. That happened this year, it happens every four years, and sometimes happens in between. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS In this resolution, there is sort of a tolerance of protestors. Now, "protestors" is not a bad word; it's a word that comes into being whenever anybody objects to a governmental policy. Often what is a protest one year becomes standard, mainstream supported activity the next year or maybe five years or ten years down the road. Generally, the major form of the protest seems to be the blocking of streets in whatever area a political convention takes place. Blocking of streets, you know, is a common American custom. In fact, it's a very Philadelphia kind of custom. There are many street lights that exist near schools to protect the children that came into being because neighbors who were frustrated by the bureaucracy of the City felt that it was necessary to block traffic, cause inconvenience to people, and thereby attract the attention of the City. And, I have to tell that you, that a number of occasions, those protests worked. Most of the Councilmembers -- I certainly -- have been engaged in them. As a matter of fact, it's not only used for the purpose INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS of compelling the City to pay understanding, but for example, when there was a strong movement to honor Cecil Moore, the predecessor to President Street and Mayor Street and Councilman Street, when there was a movement to name Columbia Avenue Cecil B. Moore Avenue, nothing happened for many years, until a group residents in the area began a regular protest, and that regular protest upset many people, because what it did was it involved the stoppage of traffic on Broad Street. And many of us and I participated in those stoppages. And after a while, enough attention was brought and enough support was found, and Cecil B. Moore Avenue was formed. Protests take different forms. Before the United States was formed, we had the Boston Tea Party, where protesters dumped tea in the port of Boston to express their unhappiness with the British government.
Protesting is a very American process. When the convention came up, we spent a lot of time and effort, quite properly, in being a good host for the convention. And I think thanks are due to the many people in uniform and out of INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS uniform who work for the City and for the many civilians who participated in all of the host activities. On some occasion -- I don't remember when quite it was -- I suggested that the welcome ought to go not only to the delegates but ought to go to the people -- we didn't know who they were, but to protesters in general whom we knew would be coming to the convention. And I was indeed very pleased one night when Mayor Street was making a speech before the convention occurred, when he did make a statement of welcome to the delegates that were coming as well as to the protesters. As far as I know, that was the last welcome that the protesters received. Now, the protesters came to deliver a message, and the resolution aptly describes their purpose. Their purpose was to come to deliver a message. It was not to disrupt Philadelphia, though the disruption takes place when streets are blocked, just as they did in the case of getting a school crossing guard or getting a streetlight in a neighborhood of Philadelphia. But protesters came to deliver a INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS message. Most of them generally are young because being a protesting often takes a lot of stamina. They did not go to all of our fine hotels; they slept wherever they could. And the City did a good job in making available Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park for some of the protesters that were coming in from out of town. But I just want a clear understanding that the protesters did not come for the purpose of disrupting Philadelphia; they came for the purpose of making clear that they were unhappy with the fact that the Republican party, in their judgment, was ignoring issues such as education, such as health care. We had a lot of Philadelphia groups on the Saturday before the convention. A group called "Physicians for Social Responsibility," and many other health care groups in Philadelphia marched through the streets of Philadelphia accompanied by police and other City officials. On Sunday, there was a Unity 2000 group that represented the AFL-CIO and many other community and other groups in the City expressing their feeling that jobs ought not to be taken out of the country, fighting for minimum wages, for INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS the kind of problems that all of us know about. And on that Monday, the first day of the convention, was that famous Kensington welfare relief organization's march down Broad Street. On Tuesday, a lot of people came who were not used to Philadelphia. With respect to the Philadelphia groups, there have been many discussions in good faith between the police, between the Managing Director and various community groups, plus the Civil Liberties Union and other interested groups. And they worked out a very fine arrangement. But the group that came in beginning on Tuesday were groups of people from other parts of country and there was no real opportunity for discourse and discussion. I'm not going to get involved in any specific issue because the courts will probably deal with them, and we will have time. But I do think we've got to understand that protesting is an American form of communicating with the people, both with elected representatives and with non-elected representatives. And I think, again, our attitude has to be one of welcoming. There's one issue of credibility. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS There were discussions in the early stages in which community groups wanted to be assured that there would be no what os called "infiltration," no breaking of the privacy that's ordinarily accustomed to groups. Recently, some information has come out that casts in doubt whether that was commitment met.
We'll see what the facts are, as we'll see what the facts are in any legal cases that develop. But I want everybody to understand that Philadelphia was never for single moment under siege. Philadelphia was never under attack. What was occurring was a normal process of people who do not have the ability to hold conventions to communicate their thought. And I'm very proud of the fact that at the Democrat Convention, certain things happened. Many of the demands made by all of the groups made here in Philadelphia, beginning with the second day of the Democratic Convention, suddenly those voices that we heard on the streets in Philadelphia began speaking from the platform in Los Angeles at the Democratic Convention. And interestingly enough, there seems to have been a total turnaround of the political INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS atmosphere. Now, for the first time, we're having a genuine debate on numbers of issues -- about education, about health care. Suddenly, we're beginning to be embarrassed by the fact that there are 45 million Americans that have no health insurance. The issues that were raised on the streets in Philadelphia have now become the political discussion for the president -- the current presidential election. So thank you very much, Madam. I think everybody in Philadelphia is to be commended for making the efforts that they made to be an excellent host. And I hope when the next convention comes to Philadelphia -- and I hope it will be very soon -- that we'll be welcoming everybody, both the delegates and those who come to express their views in the form of protest. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you, Madam INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Chair. I want to concur with what my colleague David Cohen just stated, 'cause we can never forget that this is the city that gave birth to the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, which really protects the rights of individuals to petition their government, and that means by any means, both peaceful and protests are the heart of that right that we indulge in. Blocking the streets, I have done that. I have done that as recently as a couple of months ago. I was arrested, I was let go within a short period of time. I did the same thing, for which many individuals that were arrested during the Republican Convention spent weeks in Philadelphia jails. The only thing -- and I want to commend Joe Martz and our police department and the individuals. What we have to remember is that we do live under a constitutional government and the rights of those individuals that are in the minority have to be protected much more zealously than those within the government. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS We just have some troubling questions that have arisen after the convention, and I hope that we get all of the right answers to those questions because we can not go back to a period of time in the history of the United States, in the '50s and '60s, in which individuals who were against governmental policies were infiltrated by government agents in order not to protect the government, not to protect the citizens, but to stifle the debate and the political debate that should be taking place. So I commend the police department for the job that they did and I'm very thankful for what they have done. But I want to be able to ensure that those individuals that are making policy, those individuals that are directing the way things are going to be implemented, adhere to the full, full aspect of our constitutional rights and understand that they are to protect those constitutional rights, whether they agree with us or not. I also want to commend Cheri Honkala for the demonstration that she organized on behalf of the poor, the homeless, and other individuals INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS that have no voice within the halls of power.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no dispute with the remarks of both of my colleagues. I think they've articulated very well the feelings of many of us who share an interest in productive and appropriate protests. I like a good demonstration as much as the next person. I've participated in marches, have blocked a few intersections in my time and will continue to do so. Where I did have a concern in this particular regard was when the right to protest turns into public acts of destruction and a threat to the health, safety and welfare of the people here in our city. And I think Councilman Cohen pointed out that there were a number of people -I believe many of them not from Philadelphia, and people have a right to come to Philly, come INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS through Philly and leave, as they go onto the next place to have their protest. But as I have fought against and spoken about violence and brutality over the years with regard to our police department against citizens, I feel equally strongly about violence perpetrated against our police department or damage and destruction to either private or public property. There was a fair amount of that activity in the course of the protests as well. There's nothing wrong with protests, but I am definitely against violence and destruction. And whether it's the displays and engagement with our own police commissioner or another officer who ended up seriously injured in the hospital, those issues need to be pointed out as well. We encourage and often individually engage in various protest activity, and there's nothing wrong with that. There is something wrong with violence. It will not be tolerated and people should not engage in it in the course of trying to get across their particular message. We welcome the message; we do not welcome the INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS violence. Thank you, Madam President.
All in favor of the adoption of the resolution will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the first bill introduced by Councilwoman Blackwell.
An ordinance authorizing Kate Osuala, owner of the property located at 1301 South 57th Street, to construct, use, and maintain a one-story garage addition on and over the south footway of Thomas Street, adjacent to the property 1301 South 57th Street, all under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance amending Chapters 10-100 and 10-600 of the Philadelphia Code relating to animals, individual conduct, and the of public and private property by adding to INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Sections 10-101, 105, 603, and 606, the Prohibition of Dog Fighting. And an ordinance amending Title 22 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "City of Philadelphia Public Employees Retirement Code," to provide that police officers injured as a result of performing heroic action in the line of duty are exempted from earned income offset applied to members receiving service-connected disability benefits, and amending the amount of offset with respect to other police officers, all under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance authorizing the creation of a loan or loans to provide funds for and toward various capital municipal purposes, authorizing the Mayor, the City Controller, and City Solicitor, or a majority of them, to sell bonds at public or private negotiated sale, setting forth the capital purposes and the amounts for which the proceeds of the loan or loans will be expended, providing for the maturities and for other terms and conditions and for the form of the bonds, providing that certain bonds may be redeemable prior to maturity, providing Sinking INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Funds for the bonds and for appropriations to the Sinking Fund Commission for the payment thereof, authorizing agreements to provide credit or payment of liquidity sources for the bonds and certain other actions, providing for obtaining the consent of the electors to increasing the indebtedness of the City of Philadelphia, fixing a date for holding the election for obtaining such consent and providing for the arrangements for holding such election.
The bills will be referred to the appropriate committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
The clerk please read Title bill. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2001 within the Grants Revenue Fund from the Director of Finance - Provision for Other Grants to the Department of Licenses and Inspections.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Madam President, I have three bills and one resolution.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Licenses and Inspections to hold hearings on vacant, abandoned and blighted properties in Philadelphia and to take testimony on improving the process of vacant and abandoned property disposition, property code enforcement, and demolition of dangerous properties in Philadelphia.
The resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS The clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Section 9-702 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Carnivals," by revising the provisions governing the issuance of license hold or conduct a carnival, in particular providing that such license shall be issued only for temporary periods and only once per year per location, providing that licenses shall be issued only if the carnival is conducted for the benefit of and on the property of a bona fide religious, educational, or charitable institution, society, or organization.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance adopting an amendment to the articles of incorporation of the Frankford Special Services District of Philadelphia to extend the term of the authority, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a no motor home parking regulation on INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Bennington Street, Pike Street to Luzerne Street, both sides.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer four resolutions and one bill. And I'd like to speak on the resolution regarding predatory lending.
I am sorry. With this new sound, I am having difficulty hearing what you're saying. You say you have one bill and -
I have one bill and four resolutions, and I would like to speak on the predatory lending resolution.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution recognizing, commending, and supporting the Northwest Counseling Service for their leadership in creating the Philadelphia Predatory Lending INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Task Force.
Thank you very much, Madam President. Recently we've heard the horror stories of Philadelphia residents who have literally had their homes stolen. We've heard horror stories and held Council hearings regarding housing developments in which hard-working Philadelphians sought to pursue their lifelong dream of home ownership, only to find out that after settlement that they did not own the land on which their home was built, that the market price of the home was doubled the price they had paid, and that the interest rates were other than what they had been told, and that other incentives promised by the developer never came to fruition. In essence, our citizens were duped. These types of atrocities have been coined "predatory lending" and have been highlighted in a myriad of local and national INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS newspapers and television programs. With that in mind, I am introducing this resolution and I'd like to note that the purpose of this resolution is to create -- is to support the creation of the Philadelphia Predatory Task Force, whose primary function will be to review existing laws which protect our citizens, develop new legislation where necessary, and to support the enforcement of criminal penalty for the individuals using these types of schemes to scam the public. And it is also to serve as a clearinghouse of information so consumers know what they can do to prevent themselves from being victims of predatory lending scams. This task force is headed by Michelle Lewis, Executive Director of the Northwest Counseling Services. We have in the past worked with Congressman Brady, Councilwoman Blackwell, and other elected officials, who also serve on this task force, to bring this issue to the forefront of our citizens in Philadelphia, and with the State and federal officials working with nonprofit entities such as the Northwest Counseling Services. We hope to come up with some INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS mechanisms to prevent this type of fraud from taking place in our great city. So I ask my colleagues to vote for this resolution, which I'm sure they will do; they have no problems with this. But we wanted to call attention to the resolution and thank Northwest Counseling Services for taking the leadership in recognizing what is happening. Every day we get mail at home asking us to take out a loan or buy into a new lending process, and we want people to know they have to read the fine print. So thank you very much, and we ask our colleagues to support this.
All those in favor of the adoption of the resolution will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The clerk will please read the title second resolution.
A resolution acknowledging and deploring the critical state of emergency of HIV infection in Philadelphia and INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS petitioning State and federal officials for full reauthorization of the Ryan White Care Act.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the third resolution by Councilwoman Tasco.
A resolution recommending and encouraging Governor Tom Ridge, the Pennsylvania legislature, and the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare to improve, strengthen, and expand opportunities for sufficient welfare reform through extended training, higher wages, and greater support INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS systems.
Madam President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The clerk will please read the last resolution.
A resolution declaring October 2000 as "Human Relations Month" in the City of Philadelphia.
Madam President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.) INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 17-104 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Prerequisites for the Execution of City Contracts," to add a new subsection requiring businesses receiving financial assistance from the City and City-related agencies to contribute to the Fund for Philadelphia's Children, the proceeds from which shall be made available to pay for new and expanded program initiatives for Philadelphia children, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution honoring Dorothy Johnson Speight and joining families in the community in celebrating of the Temple University chapter of the Compassionate Friends and upon the occasion of its 12th anniversary.
I move for the adoption of resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Madam President, I INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS offer one bill and one resolution for consideration today.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Director of Commerce, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to file an application, and if the application is accepted, to execute a contract to obtain a grant from the Department of Community and Economic Development, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, under the act of April 12, 1956, Section 4, as amended, to prevent and eliminate blight and to support comprehensive economic development programs.
Madam President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Lancaster Avenue, 56th Street, Haddington Street, and 57th Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
I have one bill, one resolution to be referred to the appropriate committee, and one resolution on your behalf.
Thank you. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution recognizing the Linda Creed Breast Cancer Foundation.
I move for adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs to hold public hearings on the benefits of art and cultural programs in the relationship in the development of the youth in the City of INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Philadelphia, and to further investigate potential opportunities to increase the availability of arts and cultural programs in the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 6-301 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Food Establishments," by amending the license fee for family day care homes and certain group child care facilities, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and am proud to say it's co-introduced by the Majority Leader, Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the bill. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
An ordinance amending Chapter 21-800 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Advancement of Economic Opportunities," by adding Section 21-802 of the Philadelphia Community Reinvestment Commission.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I have one privileged resolution.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution recognizing September 26, 2000 as "STOP IT NOW!" Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Day in the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
The clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance regulating the movement of traffic on Chestnut Street, and particularly authorizing right turns to be made from Chestnut Street at certain intersections in Center City, Philadelphia.
This bill referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning by amending INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Chapter 14-300, entitled "Commercial Districts," by amending 14-312, entitled "Commercial District Rules and Exceptions For All Districts," by excluding the area between Dickinson Street, Christopher Columbus Boulevard, Reed Street, and Water Street from for provisions requiring a special-use permit for offsite parking, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I have one bill and one resolution.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Public Safety to hold hearings and investigate ways to monitor and coordinate programs for offenders adjudicated to INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS court-mandated community service.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Title 16 of the Philadelphia Code relating to public property by adding a new section 16-600, entitled "Development Districts," to grant the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia the authority to create development districts that will waive certain challenges to condemnation within a development district, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Is Councilman Longstreth in the building, in the room?
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, I INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS have two resolutions.
The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution honoring and congratulating the Woodmere Art Museum upon celebrating its 60th anniversary.
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 signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay. The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The clerk will please read the second resolution.
A resolution honoring and commending Don Baker upon his retirement after INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS 30 years of dedicated service at the Philadelphia Gas Works.
Madam President, I move the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion is carried.
There are no reports from committee and there are no bills on today's first-reading calendar. Therefore, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling bills on the second-reading and final-passage calendar.
Thank you, Madam President. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Today Bill No. 000394 is called for second reading and final passage. All other bills are being held.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 000394.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 18-S by striking from the City Plan and vacating 36th Street from Wharton Street to Grays Ferry Avenue, and placing on the City Plan a certain right-of-way within the bed of 36th Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. Did Mr. Cohen vote? UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: Council President, he's out of the room for just one minute. He'll be right back.
The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. This concludes the calendar for today.
Are there any speeches on the part of the Minority? (No speeches on the part of the Minority.)
Are there any speeches on the part of the Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell. SPEECHES
Thank you, Madam President. A short note on two issues. Number one, we certainly -
Excuse me, Councilwoman. The noise level in this room is much too high. Councilwoman, please proceed.
Thank you. We certainly regret that in my district yesterday two youngsters were shot and that we commend certainly the police department on having the new armed captains in the district who are dealing with violence in schools and for a new initiative on behalf of the school district and the police department to deal with that issue, and we look forward to working with them in that regard. And my second issue is certainly a thank you to the FOP. I guess about two weeks ago they sponsored a carnival and invited 367 families from the public shelter system and they provided food and their participation in all activities at the carnival, and in fact, even money so that -SPEECHES 50-cent coins so that they could apply for drawings. And one young lady who lives in a shelter on Woodland Avenue was a recipient of a brand-new bike. So we want to publicly say to the FOP thank you for helping people in need and youngsters who would otherwise have not had an opportunity to enjoy a carnival this summer. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. Councilman Cohen, do you wish to be recognized?
Madam President, I request that my vote be recorded as aye on Bill No. 000394.
The record will so indicate. Thank you. Are there any other speeches on the part of the Majority? (No further speeches.)
There being none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.
Madam President, I ADJOURNMENT move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, September 21, 2000, at 10 a.m.
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until September 21, 2000. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. The ayes have it, and Council will stand adjourned until Thursday, the 21st. (Adjourned at 11:30 a.m.) C E R T I F I C A T E I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Thursday, September 14 2000, were reported fully and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of same. RE: STATED MEETING __________________________________, JOSEPHINE CARDILLO, Registered Professional Reporter