COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, October 6, 2011 10:10 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO, JR. COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO MICHAEL A. DECKER,
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 recognizes Reverend William Golderer of Arch Street Presbyterian Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Kelly. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
This is a rather eventful day in the life of Philadelphia, with a lot of anxiety in the air, and so I'd ask that we come together as one people and acknowledge our own. Please pray with me. Oh God, whom people of different persuasions call by different names, we all rely on you for our lives, our city and for the opportunity for flourishing. We ask you for a new and vital realization of your will and wisdom. Have patience today on our creatureliness, our appetites, our impatience and our growing frustration with the state of affairs. You know all too well that this is a day that has more unrest and anxiety than others. Our business community is feeling stretched and burdened. Our labor community is pained by the disappearance of good jobs, along with the ability to sustain hopes and dreams. And our young people are growing impatient, wondering what will be left for them and whether they will have a chance to launch their dreams. And we, the leaders in this room, are often demands, pulled in all directions by competing priorities, frustrated by our processes and our misplaced priorities and power plays. So with this list of burdens and concerns, we ask and we persist in our request that you make today memorable. Today is like no other day that has ever been, and today need not be like yesterday. Today could be defined by justice, by equality, by peace if your power and grace prevails. Today has new challenges, yes, but also new opportunities for courage and wisdom, new opportunities to deliver for others, to learn from others, to solve problems with others. We ask, oh God, that you make today count. We ask that you banish our distractions, that you liberate us from our anxieties, that you bring into our minds those you have entrusted us to serve, the strong as well as the weak, the optimistic and the desperate, those those who won't trust us or can't trust us. Let nothing deter us from the dream for Philadelphia that you have, where all of us experience -- where all of us will experience an abundance of everything we need to live together in peace and harmony. With the turmoil and rancor below us, give us a new vision this morning for how every Philadelphian could realize the full advantage of the fruits of their labor so that each day one of us -- each one of us may one day sit under our own vine and under our own fig tree and none of us are any more afraid. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks the Reverend for his inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The of business -- I'm sorry. The noise level is much too high. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 22nd, 2011. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 22nd, 2011 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 22nd, 2011 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leaves of absence, and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leave of absence today.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
No requests for leave of absence so far, Madam President.
Thank you. 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 Council, I welcome you 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. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller, who will present a resolution for Disability Awareness Month. Would Roger Margulies and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Miller is being accompanied by Councilman Green. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Good morning. Thank you, Madam President. It is my honor to proclaim the month of October 2011 as "Disability Awareness Month." The City Council of Philadelphia designates the month of October 2011 as "Disability Awareness Month" in Philadelphia and encourages all disabilities to continue to work together to ensure that citizens with disabilities participate fully in every aspect of life in the City. Whereas, in 1945, President Harry S. Truman signed into law and designated the first week of October as "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week," which was later expanded in 1988 to "National Disability Awareness Month"; and Whereas, "National Disability Awareness Month" empowers individuals with and without disabilities and their families to aspire to achieve equal access and inclusion in all aspects of life; and
Whereas, in 1986, Mayor W. Wilson Goode created The Mayor's Commission on People with Disabilities for the City of Philadelphia to focus on people with disabilities in employment, housing, transportation, access, health and human services, arts and culture, and education, by hosting the Annual Access Achievement Awards breakfast; and Whereas, the goal of this event is to encourage and offer financial support to people with disabilities to further their education and to honor private businesses, public agencies, non-profit organizations and individuals that have made an outstanding effort to improve and increase access for persons with disabilities; and Whereas, President Barack Obama stated in his 2010 National Disability Employment Awareness Month Proclamation: "This marks the 20th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the landmark civil rights legislation that established a foundation of justice and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities"; and Whereas, President Barack Obama declared that, "Individuals with part of our nation, and their contributions have impacted countless lives. People with disabilities bring immeasurable value to our workplaces, and we will continue to address the challenges to employment that must be overcome"; and Whereas, citizens with disabilities are an integral segment of the community who deserve equal access to all the community has to offer, and we believe that each citizen with a disability is an individual person with unique talents and abilities who must be appreciated and valued;
Whereas, each person with a disability has and will continue to make contributions that add to a diverse fabric of a vibrant Philadelphia, and we shall continue to promote and bring awareness for all people with disabilities; now therefore, be it Resolved, by the City Council Philadelphia, that the month of October 2011 shall be proclaimed as "Disability Awareness Month" in Philadelphia and encourage all, both public and private, to take serious action and outreach so that people with disabilities that seeks access may enjoy all the same things that people without disabilities enjoy. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Roger Margulies, Executive Director and Assistant Deputy Mayor of the Mayor's Commission on People with Disabilities, as further evidencing the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative body. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 16th day of June 2011. Signed by Anna C. Verna, President. Introduced by Donna Reed Miller and co-sponsored by all members of (Applause.)
As you know, I'm Roger Margulies, Assistant Deputy Mayor for the Mayor's Commission on People with Disabilities. On behalf of the Mayor's Commission of People with Disabilities and the 350,000 citizens with disabilities living in Philadelphia, I want to thank all the members of City Council for proclaiming October 2011 as Disabilities Awareness Month in Philadelphia. We, as people with disabilities, are an important constituency that deserves appreciation and recognition for our active city. In the 21 years since the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, many architectural barriers have been removed. Curb cuts are commonplace and helpful to everyone. All SEPTA buses are accessible, and people using canes, wheelchairs and scooters are regular riders. There are elevators at some subway stations allowing easy access, and more are on the way. Many businesses and restaurants are accessible and user friendly by having wider aisles, accessible restrooms and Braille menus. Speech recognition allows computer users who are blind or have severe speech impediments to read and communicate. I also need to remind you that many disabilities are hidden and not visible, like traumatic brain injuries, heart conditions, alcoholism and schizophrenia. Many veterans who are heroes join our disability ranks fighting for our country. been made to mainstream and integrate people with disabilities into all aspects of community life, we have a long way to go. We, as people with disabilities, have a unique talent of being very visible and invisible at the same time. People with disabilities have the same American dream as those who do not have disabilities. And to achieve those dreams, we need access to good educational opportunities, well-paying jobs, accessible, affordable housing, recreation and open-minded people with and without disabilities willing to give us a chance. That is why Disabilities Awareness Month is so important. It is an opportunity to change attitudes of those with and without disabilities. It is a time to appreciate and recognize the motivation, talents and contributions of a broad range of individuals with disabilities. Council President Anna Verna City Councilmembers, thank you very much for this vital proclamation. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Would Ms. Lisitski and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Tasco is being accompanied by Councilwoman Brown and Councilman Greenlee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning I'm pleased to present this resolution declaring October as "Domestic Violence Awareness Month." Whereas, "Domestic Violence Awareness Month" is being sponsored locally by Women Against Abuse, and through their sponsorship, they are encouraging everyone to help to increase the awareness of domestic violence in our homes and communities and decrease its negative impact on Philadelphia; and Whereas, in 2008, the Philadelphia Police Department responded to more than 137,000 domestic abuse calls, and over 11,000 individuals filed for protection from abuse orders in Family Court. And domestic violence is not just a local problem but a national issue where more than three women a day are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends in the United States. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention found that women experience two million injuries from intimate partner violence each year; and
Whereas, Women Against Abuse has grown to become domestic violence programs in the United States, created the nation's first legal center devoted to victims of domestic violence, founded the only emergency shelter in the City exclusively for abused women and their children; and Whereas, Women Against Abuse provides education and training to the community about domestic violence issues and resources that have partnered with our city, the Lutheran Settlement House, Women in Transition, Congreso de Latino Unidos to operate the Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline; and
Whereas, to support victims of domestic violence, Women Against Abuse also operates a 12-unit transitional housing program called Sojourner House, which enables victims to take the crucial first steps to reclaim their lives and move forward towards a brighter future; and Whereas, to support its mission work, Women Against Abuse will hold its 4th Annual iPledge Press Conference as a social awareness initiative to promote knowledge about domestic violence and to build community support so that all Philadelphians will take a stand against violence; now therefore be it
Now therefore be it resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia declare and recognize October as "Domestic Violence Awareness Month." Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to representatives of Women Against Abuse as a sincere expression of City Council's gratitude, appreciation, and commendation for raising the public's awareness regarding domestic violence. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 15th of September 2011. Signed by President Tasco, Brown and Greenlee, and supported by all members of City Council. We thank you, ladies, for the hard work you do and your commitment to this issue. (Applause.)
Thank you, Councilwoman Tasco and all of the members of City Council. Women Against Abuse is the leading domestic violence provider in Philadelphia, and as the Councilmembers said, we operate the only emergency shelter in the City for abused women and their children. Each year we touch approximately 12,000 people with our services, and we are pleased to be here again today to receive the support of City Council to raise awareness to domestic violence and its impact on our Philadelphia, domestic violence homicides nearly doubled in 2009, and they continue to be elevated in comparison with the averages experienced several year prior to that increase. On top of this trend, Women Against Abuse has had to turn away record numbers of women and children that need safe shelter. This past fiscal year that number rose to 7,705 requests for shelter turned away, while these families face dangerous domestic situations. This number has nearly tripled since 2009, and it's the highest number of turn-aways in our agency's history. For the past three years, I've been talking about the increase here, and each year this number is growing exponentially. Responding to the urgent needs for safe shelter and transitional housing, Women Against Abuse is pleased to announce a full-scale rehabilitation House, our transitional housing program. This will include three new family units and a new community space, for a total of 15 units for families fleeing violence. This project was made possible by funding from the City's Office of Housing and Community Development, the state capital funds, as well as almost $800,000 in private funding that Women Against Abuse leveraged. We are grateful to Councilwoman Donna Reed Miller, who has been steadfast in her support for this project, and we will continue to advocate for increased shelter beds as a policy priority, but as a community, we need to make progress at an earlier point, before families have had to flee due to the level of violence in their homes. Last year we announced a partnership with the Philadelphia Police Department that allows police to collect more detailed evidence to be used in abusers, but in addition, the Police Department began providing copies of these domestic violence incident reports to Women Against Abuse so that we can call victims within just a few days of the incident. At this point, we have expanded that effort citywide, and we're now reviewing the over 115,000 incident reports every year, and we are pulling out the high-risk cases and reaching out. Our goal, to intervene before things get to crisis levels. This type of community response exemplifies the coordination that is required to handle a systems-level social problem like domestic violence. It is far from perfect, but it is a start, and we are hoping that as we reach more and more survivors and with the help of community partners like City Council, that we can more fully engage our community to halt domestic violence in our city. Yesterday, Women Against Abuse at Love Park where we encouraged Philadelphia citizens to take a stand against violence in their homes and in their community. While we are clearly making strides in the effort to curtail domestic violence, there is still so much work to be done, and it will take our entire community to end this violence in our homes, on our streets and in our classrooms. With each day, we are expanding this community of supporters and contributing to a more peaceful community. We thank you for your unwavering support in this effort.
And we thank you for all the wonderful work you do. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Brown, resolution for Smith Playground and Playhouse. Would Meg Wise and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Brown is being joined by Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to call to the attention of my colleagues and guests --
Thank you. I would like to call to the attention of my colleagues and guests a postcard on your desk that speaks to the renovated new jewel we have in Philadelphia Fairmount Park for little people and those of us who take care of little people, wherein today we will be recognizing the Smith Playground and Playhouse. Whereas, Smith Memorial a beloved landmark in Philadelphia and a unique organization nationally which opened to the public in 1899 and was a national model for a playground movement that swept the nation at the end of the 19th Century; and Whereas, thousands of Philadelphians, including many of us in this room, have visited and treasured Smith for generations, and today the organization welcomes an annual audience of 140,000 visitors free of charge from nearly every zip code in Philadelphia and surrounding communities; and Whereas, children who visit Smith enjoy three floors of activities in a 24,000 square foot playhouse; the 106-year-old Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide; a six and a half acre playground with new outdoor play equipment designed for children of all abilities and tailored to different age ranges, including infants and toddlers; equipment imagination, creativity, and social interaction; and unlimited opportunities for children and caregivers to enjoy quality time together; and
Whereas, over the past eight years, generous supporters have enabled Smith to undertake major renovations in its facility and that have helped to make Smith Playground one of the most exciting and safest play spaces anywhere for children under 10 and younger. On September 30th, 2011, Smith will receive an award from Preservation Pennsylvania, recognizing its excellent quality of its most recent phase of renovations; Whereas, in 2011, Smith is partnering with the Parent Child Center of the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia; Play In-between: Philadelphia Pocket Parks; the Delaware Valley Association of Education of Young Children; and the Philadelphia Center for new project named The Philadelphia Declaration of Play; Whereas, the new local project aims to promote the importance of play for all children and is a call to action for adults to provide time and space for children to engage in unstructured play. The project kicks off September 23rd, 2011 where stakeholders will gather at Smith Playground to hear experts talk about the impact of play on children's psychological and emotional health and, like our founding fathers, will sign a Declaration to show their importance for play projects; and
We should note that the Smith Playground is in Councilman Jones' councilmanic district. Therefore, resolved by the City Council of Philadelphia, that we hereby recognize and celebrate the Smith Playground and Playhouse. Further resolved, that an resolution be presented to the leadership and representatives of the Smith Playground and Playhouse as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. I had the wonderful pleasure to meet the leadership this past summer and delighted that today we are introducing this resolution introduced by myself and sponsored by all Councilmembers of the City of Philadelphia. Congratulations to this crown jewel. (Applause.)
Good morning. My name is Meg Wise. I'm the Executive Director of Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse. I want to thank Councilwoman Brown for introducing this resolution this morning and Councilman Jones, who represents the district that Smith is in. I'm also accompanied this morning by two Board members from Smith, Sharla And Laurel Silber, who is holding the Philadelphia Declaration of Play. Laurel is from the Philadelphia Center for Psychoanalytic Education. First, I just want to welcome everyone and invite you to visit Smith. I hope many of you in this room came as children. If you did or if you didn't, I hope you return with young people in your lives, children or grandchildren. As Councilwoman Brown said, we welcome over 140,000 visitors every year for free to come and play at Smith Memorial Playground. The need for play today in children's lives is as great as ever. The average child today spends seven hours sitting in front of a computer or television screen. We can see the effects of that. Obesity rates are skyrocketing. Diabetes rates are skyrocketing. Children need to play more than ever. It's essential for their health, for their psychological development and simply for their happiness, for their ability to get along with one another. As Councilman Jones mentioned, on September 23rd, Smith launched a new partnership with five organizations. They were named in the resolution, but quickly I'll say them. The Philadelphia Center for Psychoanalytic Education, the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia, the Delaware Valley Association for the Education of Young Children, and Play In-between: Philadelphia Pocket Parks, which is a new non-profit organization in Philadelphia. Together we five organizations wrote the Philadelphia Declaration of Play. It's modeled on the Declaration of Independence, and it asserts the right of children to play. Today, 40 percent of schools no longer have recess. Children really need to play, and we have launched this grassroots movement to call attention to to play. We collected signatures that evening. The people who attended on September 23rd were privileged to hear three Philadelphians who have national reputations arguing for the importance of play: Dr. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek at Temple, Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg at CHOP and Dr. Anna Beresin from University of the Arts. So that evening people in attendance signed the Declaration. We also then went out into the community with copies of the Declaration and to date have collected 750 signatures asserting the importance of play for children and committing to make it easier for children to play, either by encouraging their schools to offer recess again or to make time available for physical, creative and unstructured play for children. So I wanted to present these signed petitions this morning to Councilwoman Brown and to ask for all of your help going forward. This is just step, and in the weeks and months ahead, we'll be continuing to call attention for the need for children to play. Thank you so much, all of you, for your support. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones, who will present a resolution for MED Week. Would Barbara Oliver and Bilal Qayyum and those accompanying them please join the Councilman at the podium. I see that the Councilman is being joined by just about everybody in Council. Councilman Goode, Councilman Greenlee, Councilman Kenney, Councilwoman Blackwell, Councilwoman Brown, Councilman Clarke, Councilman Green and Councilwoman Sanchez.
Before there package, before Washington got the idea that inclusion in the workforce and in opportunities in contracting was a national priority, this body, City Council, passed Chapter 17-500, I believe was introduced by the late great Councilman Blackwell.
That's right. That tradition has prompted us to recognize, along with the nation, MED Week. For Philadelphia, this is the 27th year of recognizing the importance of inclusion to create a level playing field. It became MBEC and it now is OEO, but the mission stays the same, to make sure that minority and female companies benefit from the contracting opportunities, the billions that are spent by our city. Therefore and because, Business Development Agency and recognizing October 5th through the 7th as Philadelphia Minority Enterprise Development Week (MED Week), which provides critical information for fostering growth, competitiveness for the minority business community. Whereas, since the nation's founding, the United States has been a beacon of economic opportunity and limitless potential and possibilities; and
Whereas, during Minority Enterprise Development Week, we celebrate the millions of minority business owners whose firms generate jobs, strengthen our economy, and embody the entrepreneurial spirit of America; and
Whereas, Philadelphia MED Week, as we've come to know it, is part of a national observance begun in 1983, as was mentioned, to of minority business enterprises and to honor those corporations and financial institutions that support minority business development; and COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Whereas, in Philadelphia, MED Week began as a three-day event with three workshops and has grown to a full celebration of many successful workshops and awards reception for minority-owned businesses with an ever-growing number of sponsors to promote the great accomplishments of minority firms; and
Whereas, this year's MED Week events include a wide variety of sessions, including workshops, entitled Starting a New Business, Inclusion Works: Creating Opportunities and Building Businesses That Put People to Work, Strategies for the Successful Bidder, Bringing Your Business to the App World, The Highly Effective Habits of Advertising and Marketing, and No Risk, No Reward...Gambling; and
Whereas, even in tough economic times, Americans hold the belief that anyone with a good idea and hard work can succeed and share those achievements with their employees and communities; and
Whereas, today, we must continue to prioritize job and business creation as part of a sustained recovery that works for all Americans by supporting minority-owned and operated enterprises in order to stabilize our economy now and lay foundation for future economic growth and prosperity; and
Whereas, small businesses in Philadelphia and across the country are the cornerstone of economic growth, creating two-thirds of net new jobs in the country and comprising a 50 percent of employment; and
Whereas, as America competes in the global economy, it is vital we capitalize on the dedication, creativity and acumen shown by minority business owners and their employees; now therefore, be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby supports the national Minority Business Development Agency and recognizes October 5th through 7th as Philadelphia Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week, which provides critical information to foster the growth and competitiveness of the minority business community.
Further resolved, that a copy of this resolution be presented to the Philadelphia MED Week Committee as evidence of the strong support and sincere sentiment of this legislative body. Sponsored by all members of Council. We would have had everyone up here, but we ran out of whereas's. (Applause.)
Good morning, everyone. On behalf of the Philadelphia MED Week Committee, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Council President Verna -
-- City Council and a special thank you to Councilman Curtis Jones for his undying support of MED Week. I'd also like to introduce one of the co-founders of MED Week, which is Mr. Bilal Qayyum. (Applause.)
The other -Councilman Jones and other Council folks. pleasure to be here this morning. Twenty-seven years ago Barbara Cox, who was then the Executive Director of the Women's Commission, and I started MED Week in the City of Philadelphia. And to see it has grown over the years has been a tremendous effort and the support of the new leadership and the new chair, Ms. Barbara Oliver. I have moved on, but they keep pulling me back in. But I'm really grateful for being able to come here this morning. MED Week reminds me, there's a sign on I-95 that says Economics 101, and it says Bill Gates started Microsoft during the recession. So even though we're in hard times now, this is a time we need to encourage folks to go into business. This is a time when we need to really grow entrepreneurs in the City of Philadelphia. So once again, thank you for resolution, Councilman, all my other friends in City Council, and keep up the good work. Thank 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 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, pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission regarding the following bills: Bill Nos. 110550, 110551, 110555, 110564 and 110566; and I am pleased to advise you that 23, 2011, I signed Bill 110547, which was passed by Council at its session on September 22, 2011, and that on October 5, 2011, I signed Bill No. 110441, which was passed by Council at its session on September 15, 2011, and that I am returning herewith as disapproved Bill No. 110181-AA, which was passed by Council at its session on September 15, 2011; and I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Point Breeze Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel Nos. 89 and 90; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a Cities Urban Renewal Area designated as Parcels No. 700 and 701; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the 45th and Sansom Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 11; and An ordinance authorizing Gabriel Bravo to construct, own and maintain an open air sidewalk cafe at 1201 South 9th Street; and An ordinance authorizing Campanaro Consulting, doing business as Village Belle Restaurant & Bar, to legalize various existing encroachments located on the footway in front of 757 South Front Street; and An ordinance authorizing Campanaro Consulting, doing business as Village Belle Restaurant & Bar, to construct, own and maintain an open air 757 South Front Street; and An ordinance authorizing Newbold's Brew, trading as Brew, to construct, own and maintain an open air sidewalk cafe at 1900 South 15th Street; and An ordinance authorizing Old Nelson Food PA to construct, own and maintain an open air sidewalk cafe at 2930 Chestnut Street; and An ordinance authorizing Watkins Drinkery, Inc. to construct, own and maintain an open air sidewalk cafe at 1712 South 10th Street; and An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 305 and 306 by placing on the City Plan Delaware Avenue from Lewis Street to Buckius Street and authorizing the opening thereof; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on City, to acquire the beds of certain portions of Delaware Avenue and Buckius Street; and An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 204 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Slocum Street from a point approximately one-hundred forty feet northeast of Chew Avenue to its terminus northeastwardly therefrom; and An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 271 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Bodine Street from Spring Garden Street to Green Street; and An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 42 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of the westerly ten feet wide portion of Thirty-Second Street from Chestnut Street to Walnut Street; and An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion
228 by striking from the City Plan Markle Street from Ridge Avenue to a point approximately four-hundred one feet southeastwardly therefrom; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to convey a parcel of land with the improvements thereon, located at 921 through 27 Ellsworth Street; and An ordinance constituting the Eleventh Supplemental Ordinance to the Amended and Restated General Airport Revenue Refunding Bond Ordinance, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read any other communications in his possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce two bills and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing Old Nelson Food PA, Limited Liability Company, to construct, own and maintain an open air sidewalk cafe at 2930 Chestnut Street.
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 No. 42 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of the westerly ten feet wide portion of Thirty-Second Street from Chestnut Street to Walnut Street.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the 45th and Sansom Urban Renewal Area designated as Parcel No. 11.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 305 and 306 by placing on the City Plan Delaware Avenue from Lewis Street to Buckius Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a no truck parking regulation on Bath Street, between Hedley Street and Orthodox Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to acquire the beds of certain portions of Delaware Avenue and Buckius Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I have two resolutions and one bill. Then I have nine bills for you and one resolution for you.
Thank you. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of the bills.
An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Montrose Street, north side, 15th Street to 16th Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Carpenter Street, both sides, 20th Street to 21st Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on 18th Street, both sides -
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Catherine Street, both sides, 18th Street to 19th Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Catherine Street, both sides, 21st Street to 22nd Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Fitzwater Street, both sides, 23rd Street to 22nd Street.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Grays Ferry Avenue, east side, Carpenter Street to Christian Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Bainbridge Street, south side, 15th Street to Broad Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing Newbold's Brew, Limited Liability Company, trading as Brew, to construct, own and maintain an open air sidewalk cafe at 1900 South 15th Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance constituting the Eleventh Supplemental Ordinance to the Amended and Restated General Airport Revenue Refunding Bond Ordinance.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a resolution also naming the 2000 block of East Tulpehocken Street as "Joseph C. Aiken, Sr. Way."
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Point Breeze Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel Nos. 89 and 90.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have three bills. One bill is co-sponsored by Councilman Clarke, Councilmember DiCicco and Councilmember Sanchez.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 20-500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Councilmanic Districts," by revising the boundaries of the Councilmanic Districts as they were established by Bill No. 110547 (approved September 23, 2011), and by clarifying how and when the revision of Councilmanic Districts set forth in this ordinance and in Bill No. 110547 affects the interpretation of other provisions of The Philadelphia Code.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-1631 entitled "Lower and Central Germantown Special District Controls" to further define the Prohibited Uses.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 204 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Slocum Street from a point approximately one-hundred forty feet northeast of Chew Avenue to its terminus northeastwardly therefrom.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam President. No bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Madam President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one bill, two resolutions, one co-sponsored by Councilpersons Brown and Sanchez.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 228 by striking from the City Plan Markle Street from Ridge Avenue to a point approximately four-hundred one feet southeastwardly therefrom.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution calling on the City and the City Council of Philadelphia to support, as Friend of the Court, consolidated lawsuits brought by the Attorney General of the State of New York and others against the Delaware River Basin Commission and involved federal agencies to require that no drilling of Marcellus Shale take place until a full environmental analysis is completed.
The resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Fourth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution this morning.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title.
A resolution recognizing October as Parent Involvement Month at the School District of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer 16 bills.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bills.
An ordinance authorizing Campanaro Consulting, doing business as Village Belle Restaurant & Bar, to legalize various existing sidewalk encroachments located on the footway in front of 757 South Front Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing Campanaro Consulting, doing business as Village Belle Restaurant & Bar, to construct, own and maintain an open air sidewalk cafe at 757 South Front Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing Gabriel Bravo to construct, own and maintain an open air sidewalk cafe at 1201 South 9th Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing Watkins Drinkery to construct, own and maintain an open air sidewalk cafe at 1712 South 10th Street.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to convey a parcel of land with the improvements thereon, located at 921 through 27 Ellsworth Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Rodman Street, Juniper Street, South Street and Broad Street.
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 No. 271 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Bodine Street from Spring Garden Street to Green Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance repealing an Ordinance (Bill No. 110185), entitled "An ordinance amending the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Richmond Street, Cumberland Street, Beach Street, and Schirra Drive.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Poplar Street, north side, 2nd Street to New Market Street.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Emily Street, south side, 11th Street to 12th Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Catherine Street, both sides, Broad Street to 13th Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Annin Street, south side, 11th Street to 12th Street.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on 12th Street, both sides, Porter Street to Shunk Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Dickinson Street, both sides, Juniper Street to Clarion Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Iseminger Street, east side, Oregon Avenue to Shunk Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on George Street, both sides, 3rd Street to Orianna Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one bill and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 14-1629 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Yorktown Special District Controls," by specifically amending Section 14-1629(3), entitled "District Boundaries"; all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution initiating action to establish a neighborhood improvement district in an area that generally includes the areas roughly bounded by: York Street, Carlisle Street, Girard Avenue and 19th Street; York Street, the SEPTA Regional Rail tracks, Susquehanna Avenue and Watts Street; and The Diamond Green, Kardon Atlantic, University Village and Wanamaker School developments, to be known as the North Broad Neighborhood Improvement District.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Madam President, I offer one resolution, which is co-sponsored by Councilwoman Krajewski and Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title.
A resolution recognizing, honoring, and thanking LoJack SafetyNet for their outstanding commitment to Philadelphians who suffer from cognitive disorders.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilman
Thank you. The next order of business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee on Law and Government.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Law and Government reports two bills 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 Law and Government, to which was referred Bill No. 110498, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-804 of The Code, entitled 'Unfair Rental Practices,' by requiring that every lease provide that a landlord shall be prohibited from terminating the lease based upon a tenant's status as a domestic violence victim and shall be required to terminate the lease upon the request of a tenant victim of domestic violence or may bifurcate the lease if such witness requests bifurcation"; and Bill No. 110556, entitled, "An ordinance amending Chapter 20-1200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Lobbying,' by modifying certain definitions, provision and exemptions, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 110498 and 110556. (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 indicate by saying 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 Councilman Goode for a report from the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development.
Thank you, on Commerce and Economic Development reports four bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
The Committee on Commerce and Economic Development, to which was referred Bill No. 110557, entitled, "An ordinance amending Chapter 17-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Philadelphia 21st Century Minimum Wage and Benefits Standard,' by requiring employers subject to that Chapter to provide certain earned sick leave benefits to employees covered by that Chapter"; and Bill No. 110558, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 17-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Philadelphia 21st Century Minimum Wage and Benefits Standard,' by repealing Section 17-1311, 'Living Wage Advisory Committee,' and by enacting a new Section 17-1311, entitled 'Living Wage and Benefits Review Committee'"; and Bill No. 110559, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 17-1600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Economic Opportunity Plans,' to require that certain economic opportunity plans be submitted to Council and published on the City's website and changing all references from 'MBEC' to 'certifying agency,' as defined"; and Bill No. 110561, entitled "An ordinance amending Subsection 19-2604(6) of The Philadelphia Code, under which businesses that enter into agreements to make contributions to community development corporations receive business privilege tax credits, all under certain terms and conditions," 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 Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 110557, 110558, 110559 and 110561. (Duly seconded.)