COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, April 25, 2013 10:25 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES KENNEY COUNCILMAN DENNIS O'BRIEN COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO MICHAEL A. DECKER,
Good morning, everyone. Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)
Thank you. It appears we have enough Councilmembers here to establish a quorum. I'd ask all guests and visitors to please take their seats and retire behind the rail, and Council will come to order. Thank you. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Pastor Jermaine Heath of St. Paul's Baptist Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Johnson. I would ask all guests and visitors and members to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Let us look to the Lord. Father in heaven, we do thank and honor to be here today. Thank you, Lord, for giving us life and to be able to live this life abundantly. This morning we come, Lord, asking for your grace, for your mercy, for your direction, and for your guidance to lead this city. Pray, Father, that you would bless these men and these women that gather together as Councilpeople to be able to govern and to lead your people. We pray, God, Lord, that you would bless them with wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. But most of all, God, grant us a heart after you, Lord, to be able to lead your people. For, though, Lord, you are ruler, you have called us to rule. And so, Father, help us to use our influence. Help us to use the knowledge that you have given us. Help us to use the spirit and the courage that you have given us to be able to serve your people, for, Lord, when we look at it, we are servants. We serve your people. And so, God, as we begin to move bills and begin to discuss various issues concerning this city, always help us to keep in front of us your people. Help us to remember that they are precious in your sight, and that because they are precious in your sight, we have a level of responsibility to govern them well. We thank you, Father, for all that you have done. We thank you for what you're going to do. And we pray again, Father, that you would just give us the wisdom, that you would give us the knowledge to be able to do the right things, to be able to, Lord, have good discussion and reasoning amongst one another to be able to lead this great City of Philadelphia. Pray, Father, Lord, that your blessings will be upon us today and be upon all of those who are in this room morning, God. And, God, we pray, Lord, that after this session is over, may we not just talk about the issues. May we not just talk about the different things that are happening in the City and what we would like to see be done, but help us go out, Lord, and to do those things. Help us, Lord, not to be hearers, but most of all, help us to be doers of your word. We thank you, Lord, and we give your name praise, for it's in your name we thank you. Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you very much. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 18th, 2013. Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 18th, 2013 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 18th stand approved. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leaves of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
Thank you, sir. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
Thank you so much. At this time, I would like to dispense with the regular order of business to welcome all of our guests and visitors. We hope that today is a pleasurable one. We hope your experience is such that you want to come back again. I would like to ask at this time, though, all guests and visitors, if you have electronic devices, please turn them on silent or turn them off. Thank you for your cooperation on that matter. At this time, the Chair Tasco, who will make a presentation recognizing April 27th as Multiple Myeloma Awareness Day. Would Ms. Joan Howell and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium.
Good morning. Once again, it is a great pleasure to present this resolution recognizing April 27th as Multiple Myeloma Awareness Day, and this activity has brought to my attention and the work that this organization has been doing through the years by my longtime friend, Joan Howell, and we thank you, Joan, for working so tirelessly with the Multiple Myeloma Network. Whereas, the Multiple Myeloma Network of Philadelphia will be hosting its fifth annual "Miles for Myeloma" 5K Walk/Run on Saturday, April 27th at 9:00 a.m. at Dr. Martin Luther King Drive; and Whereas, Multiple Myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells in the bone marrow, which help the body to detect and attack foreign substances like toxins, viruses, bacteria, and parasites that may have entered one's body and it is called "multiple" because the cancer can occur at multiple sites; and Whereas, the exact cause of Multiple Myeloma has not been identified. However, researchers have gained a greater understanding of how specific changes in DNA can cause plasma cells to become more cancerous; and Whereas, a number of risk factors for this disease have been identified, including age and having other plasma cell diseases, and common signs and symptoms of Multiple Myeloma vary based on the extent of the disease and include bone pain, fatigue, weakness, and recurrent infections; and Whereas, Multiple Myeloma may be first detected in routine blood tests. However, additional tests, including bone marrow tests, may be necessary to verify treatment and prognosis for the disease depends on various factors, including its stage and the patient's age, and treatment may include bone marrow/stem cell transplants, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy; and Whereas, Multiple Myeloma affects more than 100,000 people in the United States, with an estimated 20,000 new cases diagnosed each year and 10,000 losing their battle each year and the disease is the second most common blood cancer and third fastest growing cancer in terms of mortality in people over the age of 65; and Whereas, African Americans have the highest reported incidence of Multiple Myeloma and it is one of the top 10 leading causes of cancer death; now, therefore be it Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we recognize April 27th as Multiple Myeloma Awareness resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution is presented to representatives of the Multiple Myeloma Network of Philadelphia as an expression of appreciation 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 21st of March 2013. It is supported by all members of City Council. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
-- Council President Clarke and Councilmembers. We're here today on behalf of the Philadelphia Multiple Myeloma Foundation. Bear with me this morning, sincere thanks to Council for a proclamation and proclaiming April the 27th as Multiple Myeloma Day. My name is Joan Howell and I have been -- I have had this disease for ten years. Those here with the ribbons are also multiple myeloma patients. The roses represent the multiple myeloma people who were with us six years ago. Also standing here are our family and friends, and they are one of our biggest supporters.
Good morning, everyone. My name is Marilyn Alexander. I'm a 19-year multiple myeloma survivor. I want to thank Joan Howell for making this day possible, and I want to take this opportunity to thank the City Council for all of their efforts to support the outreach to the multiple myeloma community. The visibility that this proclamation gives us will no doubt be able to find help and education that they didn't know existed before. The partnership that the City of Philadelphia, corporations like Celgene and Millennium, Frank Valeri sitting in the back, has given us as well as foundations like the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation with Beverly Harrison, Vice President of Clinical Development, back in here, will no doubt accelerate the search for a cure for multiple myeloma. All are to be applauded for all of their efforts. Thank you. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. Oh, one more. I'm sorry.
Good morning, Council President and Council. My name is Phil Falkowitz and I have multiple myeloma. ago, probably 1997, we sat around my kitchen table deciding what we could do about the local Delaware Valley situation of needing a support group, and we founded at that time the Philadelphia Multiple Myeloma Networking Group, and from that humble beginning, trying to help ourselves and trying to help others, we have amassed hundreds of people that are part of our support group that come out every Saturday once a month to meetings at the Ralston House. We give them a shoulder to cry on, we network information with each other, and we make awareness of blood diseases to the Delaware Valley, as we're doing today. I'd like to thank you very much. From these humble beginnings, here we are in City Council, and I think that's just awesome. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco again, who will present a resolution recognizing Delta Sigma Theta Sorority on the occasion of its Sixth Annual Delta Day. Would Sandra Gould and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. And also joining Councilwoman Tasco is Councilwoman Brown.
Again, good morning. When you see the red and white, what time is it? It's Delta time. And you know these are hard-working ladies, working in the community, various chapters throughout the Delaware Valley. They are about doing good, helping people in the community, and keeping our community informed of what's going on, and this is our hundredth year are here to recognize and acknowledge Delta Sigma Theta Sorority on the occasion of its Sixth Annual Philadelphia City Council Delta Day. They come every year, and they have done so for the last six years. Whereas, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated was founded at Howard University on January 13, 1913 by twenty-two African American collegiate women. Nearly 6 weeks after its inception, the founders of this illustrious organization participated in their first collective act of public service, marching in the Women's Suffrage March in Washington D.C.; and Whereas, the twenty-two founders envisioned an organization that will use their collective strength to promote academic excellence, provide scholarships, provide assistance to persons in need, educate and stimulate participation in the establishment of policy, and to highlight issues and provide solutions for problems in their communities; and
Whereas, Delta Sigma Theta has been incorporated since 1930 and now boasts more than 200,000 members with over 900 chapters located in the United States, England, Japan, Germany, the Virgin Islands, the Bahamas, and the Republic of Korea; and Whereas, the major programs of our sorority are based upon the organization's Five Point Thrust of: Economic Development, Educational Development, International Awareness and Involvement, Physical and Mental Health, and Political Awareness and Involvement; and Whereas, Delta Sigma Theta is highly recognized for its commitment to sisterhood, community service, and the creation and implementation of programs that support the mission of Delta; and Whereas, as a national and body, Delta Sigma Theta has participated in numerous Delta Days in the Nation's Capital, and in March of 2003, became a non-governmental organization at the United Nations, granting the organization special consultative status to the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations; and
Whereas, the chapters from across Pennsylvania participate in Legislative Days in Harrisburg, and we are honored and pleased to be joined by the members of the Philadelphia Quaker City Chapter, as they always come each year. It's the Quaker City Chapter that visits with us, and the Valley Forge Alumnae Chapters, who seek to become involved in local public policy-making process and to further pledge their commitment to the City; now, therefore, be it Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we recognize and acknowledge Delta Sigma Theta and Valley Forge Chapters on the occasion of its Sixth Annual Philadelphia City Council Delta Day. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to members of Delta Sigma Theta as an expression of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. This is introduced by co-Deltas Marian Tasco and Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown. And let me say each year the Sorority brings students to our forum. When we leave this room, we go over to the Caucus Room and we have lunch and we talk to the students who accompany the groups, and today we have joining the Deltas students from Harris Elementary School of Delaware County and students from Sayre High School in Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell's district. Thank you. (Applause.)
I am Sandra Brockington Gould, the President of Quaker City Alumnae Chapter. This morning we do have the members of -- a representative member of our chapter here, and we would like to thank you this morning for the warm welcome that you have extended to us from the Philadelphia City Council. As you may be aware, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated is celebrating 100 years of sisterhood, scholarship, and service. Political awareness and involvement is one of the five programmatic thrusts that drive the work of our organization. Under this thrust, we promote leadership, advocacy, and empowerment among members to bring about effective solutions to changes. We establish positions on emerging or determine appropriate responses that direct the actions of our members and our chapters. We vow to use our influence toward the enactment of laws for the protection of the unfortunate and weak and for the repeal of those depriving human beings of their privileges and rights. Public service is the heart of our organization. Today we would like to recognize and acknowledge the support of the Philadelphia City Council. We would like to ask your President, Darrell Clarke, to come and join us as we present you with this plaque as a token of our appreciation for your support. (Applause.)
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Quaker City Alumnae Chapter honors the Philadelphia City Council for continued support of Quaker City Alumnae Chapter's community and public service initiatives and of Brotherly Love, April the 25th, 2013, Mrs. Sandra Brockington Gould, Chapter President.
Does anybody have a red tie I can put on? Thank you.
You're welcome. We, of course, could not do this work without recognizing to the Honorable Marian B. Tasco, our sister sorer, who has served the City Council for seven terms. We thank you for your dedicated service and leadership to the citizens of Philadelphia. (Applause.)
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Quaker City Alumnae Chapter honors Marian B. Tasco for your dedication in assisting and supporting the citizens of the City of Philadelphia and the Quaker City Alumnae Chapter, April the 25th, 2013, Mrs. Sandra Brockington Gould, Chapter President.
And, of course, we would be remiss if we did not recognize Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, who is the only woman to win a Philadelphia at-large Council seat, who has served four terms as a member of City Council. We also say thank you, sister sorer, for your dedicated service of enriching the lives of Philadelphia residents by putting people first. Thank you so very, very much. (Applause.)
Thank you. And I'd like to just take this Chair of our Social Action Committee and our Co-Chair, we have Patricia Alford and we have Annie Williams Gadson, who have pulled together today and brought their students, and we are looking forward to having an enriching time this morning and early afternoon. Thank you so much for this privilege. (Applause.)
Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson, who will present a resolution recognizing the Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society. Would Melissa Levy and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. And joining Councilman Johnson, we have Councilman Jones and Councilman and Councilwoman Bass.
That's much better. Today I am truly honored and privileged to have this opportunity to acknowledge an organization for the work that they have been doing as it relates to the welfare of animals in the City of Philadelphia. And so my grandmother always told me, dare to be different, and so today that's what I am doing. About two years ago, I had an opportunity to participate in an event in the 2nd Councilmanic District at FDR Park called the Mutt Strut, and at this particular event, it was an event and social gathering for individuals who had out their puppies, their dogs, all in the day of fun and activity. And so after that event, my wife and I talked about she wanted a puppy. I bought her a puppy, and the puppy's name is Sasha Blue. And I went to an organization in my district to kind of get some idea on how to go about purchasing a puppy, and I had the opportunity to talk to some representative from PAWS, and I really had a chance to really look at how in-depth and important the work that they were actually doing. And so I just want to take the time to just recognize them. And also we will be partnering with them to do a puppy social called the Puppy Ball on May 18th, and it's all in an effort to bring together individuals who love their dogs and love their puppies. But on a serious note as well, I often go down to the Schuylkill River Trail dog park, and you wouldn't believe how many relationships I've met just out there just taking some time enjoying our puppies, enjoying our dogs and really building relationships. And so today I wanted to acknowledge the organization for the work that they have been doing throughout the 2nd Councilmanic District and the City of Philadelphia as well, and thank Councilman Curtis Jones for joining me here today. Honoring, recognizing and commending the Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society for its dedication to saving and protecting homeless animals and its service as an active and effective resource for disadvantaged pet owners. Whereas, the Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to save homeless, abandoned, and unwanted animals in Philadelphia; and
Whereas, no-kill shelter in Philadelphia, and finds loving homes for thousands of animals each year. Additionally, the organization provides affordable basic veterinary services to pet owners and rescue organizations in an effort to reduce the homeless population among pets; and
Whereas, more than 30,000 homeless, abandoned, and unwanted dogs and cats enter the City's animal-control shelter every year. Of those, approximately 40 percent never make it out. To lead Philadelphia towards becoming a no-kill city, PAWS has created comprehensive rescue and preventive measures including finding homes for at-risk animals and providing low and no-cost veterinary services and spay/neuter surgery to pet owners; and
Whereas, PAWS has two centers based in Philadelphia. The PAWS Adoption Center, a boutique-style environment in Old City, an inviting setting. The PAWS Spray/Neuter and Wellness Clinic is located in the Grays Ferry section of the City; and
Whereas, PAWS is a privately funded organization. Through individual, corporate, media, and foundation support, PAWS effectively continues its mission. With help from a highly qualified staff, a large and active volunteer base, and widespread community support, the organization continues to be a leading animal advocacy resource in Philadelphia; now therefore
Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia, hereby honors, recognizes and commends the Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society for its dedication to saving and protecting homeless animals and its as an active and effective resource for disadvantaged pet owners. Further revolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be Animal Welfare Society as evidence of the sincere admiration of the Council of Philadelphia. And by a show of hands, how many people out there have pets, just by a show of hands? (Some members and guests raise hands.)
Okay. All right. At this particular time, I'd like to present this citation to the members of PAWS for your dedication and hard work. (Applause.)
My name is Melissa Levy. I'm the Executive Director of PAWS, and I just want to thank Councilman Johnson and the entire City Council for honoring us this morning. I accept this extremely hard-working staff, some of whom have joined us here today, and our Board of Directors. Our President, Dana Spain, is with us as well, and our hundreds of incredible volunteers, the thousands of adopters and foster parts who have opened their homes to animals in need and continue to do so. They are the ones who enable us to save as many homeless pets as we do on a daily basis. Our goal is to make Philadelphia a no-kill city, and that truly feels within reach now more than ever. We are constantly expanding our services to help more of the animals and pet owners who need us. We'll be opening a new location, our third location, later this year in the Northeast to provide adoption and low-cost veterinary services to an entirely new area. But we have a long way to go before every healthy and treatable pet in Philadelphia has a loving home, and we'll get there by community. We won't stop until we can celebrate being a no-kill city. We're all partners in this effort, City leaders, Animal Control, and so many dedicated animal rescue groups throughout the area. We are very grateful to City Council for recognizing the homeless animals and the struggling pet owners who are depending on all of us to do the best work that we can, and we look forward to working with you and everyone who wants to join us in the effort to save lives until the last one is safe. Thank you so much. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the special guest joining us today. Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to make another small one before that, and that is the presence of a seventh grader named Steven Williams -- please stand -- who is the son of Steven Williams, who is the head of the Partnership CDC in West Philadelphia. (Applause.)
And he is the guest of Alice Wright, President of the Block Captains. Thank you, Alice. Thank you. (Applause.)
And now I'd like to mention, as we all know, the Penn Relays are this weekend. Twenty thousand Jamaicans will be here at the Relays. We always work with them to make sure they have everything they need. Seven hundred Jamaicans will participate guess Jamaican Bickle will beat us like they always do at the Relays. Last year we honored Prime Minister Portia Simpson and this year we will be honoring at the Relays Minister of Sports for Jamaica, the Honorable Natalie Neita-Headley, and she is here with the Honorary Consul of Jamaica, Dr. Alston Meade, and her assistant, and we also have the President of the Mayor's Commission on African and Caribbean Immigrant Affairs, who is Honorary Consul to Guinea, and that is Stan Straughter. So they are our special guests, and we look forward to being with them this weekend, and we thank the Honorable Natalie Neita-Headley for being here, member of Parliament. Thank you. (Applause.)
I got my daily workout coming up and down from the podium. Good stuff. proceed, I'd like to recognize a good friend and one of our colleagues, State Representative Brian Sims. I understand you will be speaking during public comment, sir. I want to thank you for being here with us today. (Applause.)
Thank you so much for being here. We'll see you a little later. At this time, the next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Mr. Decker, please read the messages.
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: 130242, 130252, 130255, and 130274; and I am pleased to advise you that on April 24, 2013, I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its session on April 11, 2013; and I am transmitting herewith for the introduction and consideration of your honorable body an ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2014 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works (including the supplying of funds in connection therewith) subject to certain constraints and conditions; and An ordinance authorizing the Commerce Director and the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire an approximately 8.606 acre property located at 1070 Tinicum Island Road, Tinicum Township, Delaware County; and An ordinance authorizing Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation to construct, own and within the public right-of-way on Vine Street, 10th Street and Pearl Street; and An ordinance authorizing the Commerce Director and the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire an approximately 5.61 acre property located on Tinicum Island Road, Tinicum Township, Delaware County, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. Do you have any other messages?
Thank you, sir. I would be remiss if I didn't recognize a good friend and a senior member of Council, Councilman DiCicco. Thank you for stopping by, sir. (Applause.)
Always good to see you. It let's us understand that there is life after Council. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Being a senior citizen.
Thank you, Councilman. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing the immeasurable contributions Fergus "Fergie" Carey has made to the quality of life in the City of Philadelphia.
That resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I introduce one non-privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution calling on the City Council Committee on Education to hold hearings to examine the feasibility of choosing a locally elected Board of Education and furthermore to examine the process required to do so.
That resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I introduce one bill, which is co-sponsored by Councilman Jones and Councilwoman Sanchez, and on your behalf, two resolutions.
An ordinance amending Chapter 2-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Recording of Deeds," and Chapter 10-1000 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Fees," by adding duties for the certification of deeds, providing for tangled title assistance, providing for certain fees and making technical changes.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, 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 Twenty-Ninth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
That resolution will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, 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 Twenty-Eighth and Thirty-Seventh Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
That resolution will also be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
An ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2014 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works (including the supplying of funds in connection therewith) subject to certain constraints and conditions.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
An ordinance authorizing the Commerce Director and the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire on behalf of the City an approximately 8.068 acre property located on 1070 Tinicum Island Road, Tinicum Township, Delaware County.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commerce Director and the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire on behalf of the City an approximately 5.61 acre property located on Tinicum Island Road, Tinicum Township, Delaware County.
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire certain land along the Schuylkill River between 56th Street (as extended to the Schuylkill River) and 58th Street.
That bill will be referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one non-privileged resolution.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, 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 Seventh, Nineteenth and Twenty-Third Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
That resolution will be placed on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Brien.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have two privileged resolutions today.
A privileged resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Public Safety to hold public hearings regarding the implementation of a focused deterrence program citywide in Philadelphia to reduce gun violence, the creation of an Office of Violence Reduction and the appointment of an executive director and appropriate staff to such an office.
That resolution will be placed on this week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Public Safety to investigate and hold public hearings reviewing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole and its practices in Philadelphia, including the violation of parole conditions, the issuance of technical and direct violation warrants, the recommitment process and the effect that these processes have on the safety of the citizens of Philadelphia.
That resolution will also be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings to review the recommendations of the Philadelphia Jobs Commission.
Thank you. That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Good morning, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions this morning.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Good morning, Mr. President. Two bills, one privileged resolution co-authored by all members of Council.
An ordinance establishing a no truck parking regulation on the 1700 block of North 56th Street between Lancaster Avenue and Jefferson Street.
That bill will be placed in the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Parkside Avenue, 52nd Street, Merion Avenue, Girard Avenue, and Belmont Avenue.
And a privileged resolution honoring the African-American Chamber of Commerce of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware on two decades of commitment to supporting the economic empowerment and growth of African-American businesses on the occasion of its 20 year Anniversary.
That resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation to construct, own and maintain various right-of-way encroachments within the public right-of-way on Vine Street, 10th Street
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions this week.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. That concludes our introductions. The next order of business is reports from committees. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Rules reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 130109, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' Title 16 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Public Property,' and making conforming amendments to the Code to provide for a comprehensive plan for the placement of advertising on municipal property," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 130109. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended this day as to permit first reading of Bill No. 130109. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. That bill will be reported out of Committee and will be on our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. I note 2ND READING that the bill just reported from committee has been deemed to have had its first reading. This bill will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 130137-A, 120775-A, 120776, 130230, 121041, 121042, 130079, 130083, 130138, 130241, 130224, 130141. All other resolutions and bills are being held.
Thank you, Councilman. Before considering these bills and resolutions, we will have public comment. We'll give you the guidelines now. If you are interested in testifying on a bill or resolution that's on the Final Passage Calendar today, you must sign up at the table to your left with the lady with the pink top on, Michelle. You will testify at the podium in the middle of the Council Chambers. There is a device on that podium. When the light turns green, it is your time to speak. When it turns yellow, you have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks. When it turns red, we ask that you adhere to the guidelines and conclude your remarks. You will be given three minutes to testify. We want to make sure that everybody has an opportunity to speak. So we ask that you please acknowledge the limitations on the timeline. Thank you so much. At this time, Mr. Decker, please call the first name.
Jordan Gwendolyn Davis, commenting on 130224. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning. My name is Jordan Gwendolyn Davis and I am a proud transsexual lesbian woman from South Philadelphia. I wear several activist hats in the community, but I speak now as an independent watchdog for the interest of the transgender community. I am proud that Bill 130224 will address many of the issues surrounding Philadelphia's transgender community, from clarifying the Fair Practices Ordinance, to adding gender identity to key protections of the City Code, to making transition care more successful to City employees, private employees as well as possibly the district health centers, to gender-neutral forms in bathrooms. I came here two years ago after experiencing trans-phobia and administrative violence in Pittsburgh and experienced much the same here, especially when it comes to gender-segregated institutions. While there is maybe a legitimate purpose to certain gender-segregated institutions, a person should be able to enter or to be placed into the proper gender setting regardless of gender identity. You all have nothing to fear by me or any other trans woman entering the women's room or being in any other women space. While cisgender women have nothing to fear by trans women being in women spaces, trans women have a lot to fear by being forced into men's spaces due to an endemic rape culture within. Although I wish that the protections of the bill and gender-segregated spaces went beyond bathrooms, I believe it is a great start. I would like to thank the Labor and Civil Service Committee for moving on this so quickly, including Councilperson Kenney and his office for giving myself, Kathy Padilla, and various allies the opportunity and privilege to make this bill more inclusive with the transgender community. And I would also give a special thanks to Councilperson O'Neill. Your affirmative vote for this bill in committee two weeks ago shows me that you have evolved since 11 years ago when you balked on the gender identity bill. Please don't disappoint us this time. I believe in the ability of people to evolve, and I hope that every member of City Council has now evolved, not just on the LGB part, but the T as well. Please, for the safety, health, and well-being of all people regardless of gender, listen to your better angels and please pass this bill. Thank you. (Applause.)
Joe Grace, commenting on 130224. (Witness approached podium.)
And to every member of City Council, good morning. I'm Joe Grace, the Director of Public Policy for the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, and I'm here today in support of Bill No. 130224, which offers a business tax credit to businesses in the City that elect to provide healthcare coverage to the life partners of their employees as well as to transgender employees. Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce has always supported tax credits as an inducement to persuade business in Philadelphia to create new jobs and employment opportunities, and we support this strategy as a productive way for government to work with the business community to advance our shared goal of a more vibrant local economy. The Chamber also supports the goals of diversity and equality in Philadelphia and in Pennsylvania. A diverse workplace that treats employees fairly and equally without regard to race, gender or sexual orientation is a workplace where employees feel more of a sense of inclusion and engagement in their companies, which can only enhance the company's bottom line performance. The Chamber of Commerce proudly supports Bill No. 130224. Thank you.
Dolan Kneafsey and Amy Fiske, commenting on 130224. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Good morning, everybody. I can't talk that fast, so I'm not going to. My name is Dolan Kneafsey. This is my beautiful wife of 12 years and my adorable son, one of our sons. You might be asking yourself a couple of questions right now. You might be saying, one, how did this king of queens looking guy get her? And I ask myself the same question regularly. And then, two, why does he care about this bill, the LGBTQ bill? So I can't answer the first part of the question, but I'm going to try to answer a little bit of the second. I am a son of Irish immigrants. I am a City of Philadelphia employee. I have worked and lived in the City since I was 18 years old. I currently work for child abuse investigations. I have spent the majority of my career working there. And I also am a parent educator. I work very hard to help our families in the City of Philadelphia reunify when they're caught up in the system. I have a big, big Irish Catholic family, and, you know, when I grew up, when I was growing up, I used to pray. I prayed all the time, and my mom thought I was going to be a nun. That's because I was born biologically female. And I prayed and I prayed and I prayed that God would change me, fix the mistake that he had made. And my mother used to say, without knowing how I was feeling, my mother used to say, God doesn't make any mistakes. And that sort of cut to the core of who I was, because I thought in my mind, he did. He did this time, mom, but I couldn't tell anybody that. So I have come full circle with my relationship with my family with who I am and even with God, and I've come to realize that he didn't make a mistake. This was the path that I was supposed to be on. This was the journey that I was meant to be on, to fight for equality for all people. And had I not had my life experiences that I've had, I couldn't be the man that I am today. It's not possible. So I'm grateful now. After a lot of trial and tribulation, I am grateful. I am fortunate to have a family and loved ones who support me. A lot of people who are transgender don't have that. And this bill is very important for many reasons. Some of them are personal to me, but people talk about inclusivity and diversity. Everybody has to have a seat at the table in order for us to be inclusive and really being diverse and caring about each member of our city. I ask you to look at one of my sons and say why shouldn't he have the same health insurance and healthcare that someone who was born biologically male, him and his wife should have. We should all be covered the same. And like I said, I love the City. I bleed, depending on the season, green, orange, black, mostly red. But I just hope that you all can see it, to keep us as the progressive city that we have always been. Thank you.
Dane Menkin and Erin Schmitt, commenting on 130224. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Our names are -I'm Dane Menkin and this is my wife, Erin Schmitt. I'm a nurse practitioner, and for the past five years, I've worked at an LGBT health center here in Philadelphia. We live in Mt. Airy with our two children. Erin owns a small business there. We've been partners for over a decade and legally married for four years. I want to take a few minutes to explain why some of -- what some of the protections included in this proposed bill would mean for our family and explain how the lack of access to employer-covered health benefits has affected us. I'm a transgender man. I'm legally male. My name has been changed, my birth certificate amended. My driver's license, Social Security card, and passport all reflect my gender identity. Because, however, my health insurance provides zero coverage for anything related to my transition and because I have body parts labeled as female, I have had to be listed as female on my health insurance or risk losing access to routine or necessary GYN care. This has had significant impact on our family, both financially and in terms of our social and physical safety. Whenever anyone in our family sees a healthcare provider, my identity is always called into question. Our family receives benefits through my employer, so my information is always scrutinized when a provider billing person or receptionist sees me or hears Erin refers to me as "daddy" when speaking to our children. They immediately become concerned that either my gender marker in their system is wrong on our insurance or that we've engaged in some kind of fraud. We've had numerous conversations with medical office staff in front of our children explaining our family and what it means to be transgender and have had to deflect completely irrelevant questions around the origin of our relationship, how our children were conceived, how our families have handled my transition, and on and on. We deserve the right to be in control of how this information about our family is disclosed. Our children deserve the right to not witness their parents be interrogated at worse or the subject of curious -- or be the subject of curious intrigue at best when they simply need treatment in some emergency room for an ear infection. It's our sincere hope that the tax credit for employers who provide comprehensive trans healthcare will enable my employer to provide appropriate health insurance for me and all of our other employees. I need to be identified as male on my insurance in a way that's congruent with my legal status, life, and identity, while still having my whole body protected and cared for. We need my medical care. It's in -- it is entirely supported by -- we need to be entirely supported by our insurance provider. Given our monthly costs for insurance premiums and co-payment, the medicine and procedures associated with my transition are not insignificant. Neither are the thousands of thousands we've had to spend in drafting legal paperwork to protect each other and our children, and assisted reproductive technologies needed by lots of LGBT people who want families. As parents, our obligation and primary concern is protecting the safety and welfare of our children. As LGBT residents of Philadelphia, we ask that the City simply support us in doing this critical job and help all of our families and community members access protections that all people should have access to. Thank you.
State Representative Brian Sims, commenting on 130224. (Witness approached podium.) REPRESENTATIVE SIMS: Mr. President -
Good morning, Representative. REPRESENTATIVE SIMS: -members of Council, thank you for the opportunity to speak here today on what I hope, what I know is going to be another very historic day in the history of this great chamber. In short, Mr. President, there is no doubt that Philadelphia has a long and rich history of protecting its citizens from bigotry and discrimination. This is a city that has shown time and time again that it is committed to ensuring that all Philadelphians be treated with fairness and equality, that each of us be given a fair shake and a fair shot. We are a city that doesn't hide from its diversity, but instead celebrates and proudly displays our cultural, ethnic, sexual, and gender diversity every day for the world to see. It is in fact the Philadelphia way. In a state that has not a single statewide LGBT civil right, Philadelphia has protected its lesbian, gay, and bisexual citizens from discrimination for over 30 years and has attempted to protect its transgender citizens for the last decade. Quite literally, we are at our best when we are celebrating and embracing our diversity, and it is no surprise that pioneers of the LGBT civil rights movement chose Philadelphia to proudly proclaim that we are here, we are equal, and we deserve the same rights afforded to all of our brothers and sisters. It is with this rich history in mind, Mr. President, that I want to thank each and every one of you that are here today. As a brand new and openly gay elected official, I know that so much of the work that we do as legislators can be technical and important, but not always so inspiring. Today is not such a day. Today is a day to stand proud, to know that each of you has been given the opportunity to stand up in support of your friends, your family members, your constituents, your co-workers and, most importantly, on behalf of your better angels. Today we get to add your voices to the chorus of civil rights leaders and legislators who have fought for decades for the basic freedoms promised to each of us in our state and in the U.S. Constitutions. Today, members of Council, you are agents of equality. You are more than just Councilmembers. You are champions of a first-class city, proudly, proudly filled with a diverse and powerful citizenry. So thank you, Councilman Kenney. Thank you, Mr. President, and thanks to each of you that will cast your votes today. This is a remarkable day in our city's rich history, and I trust and I know that the votes that you will cast today will only bring us one step closer to fulfilling a dream for America that started in this very city just a few blocks away. Mr. President, on a personal note, there is within the LGBT community two camps, and we debate constantly about are we LGBT or are we GLBT. And it sounds like a minor point, and I think that there are many like myself that would argue that unfortunately that debate is somehow founded in misogamy, that those of us that are gay somehow need to be listed first. And I will tell you, sir, that if we were actually listing the members of the LGBT in order of importance, in order of how hard they have worked, and in order of how much farther they have to go, we would be the TLBG community. (Applause.) REPRESENTATIVE SIMS: Members of Council, you have heard some amazing speeches today. You have heard from some incredible Philadelphians. I am so proud to stand here today. I am proud to watch history be made, and I am so thankful for the votes that you all are about to make. Thank you all very much. (Applause.)
Clarc King, commenting on 120118. (Witness approached podium.)
Thank you, City Council members. I wanted to comment once again on the resolution and bill authorizing committee to hearings that examine the feasibility of transferring ownership or operations of Philadelphia Gas Works to a private entity, and I want to say that just as NASA is the sauce of America's strength, PGW is the sauce of Philadelphia's strength. It creates hydrogen out of its many processes and it can lead Philadelphia into the hydrogen economy, and to exchange this great economic developer for paper money is not in the best interest of Philadelphians. Also, I'd like to add that $1.7 trillion are going to be taken out of the economy by sequestration. One point three trillion dollars are going to be taken out of Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, and political leadership has not addressed the consequences of this action. The financial system is not improving despite what we're hearing, and so Philadelphia will have to create economy formation measures to protect the population. Thank you, Mr. President, City Council members.
Thank you, sir, for your testimony. (Applause.)
Alfred Sheppard, commenting on 130224. (Witness approached podium.)
My name is Alferd Sheppard, and I need to say something about the gay and lesbian community and talking about getting healthcare and all that and God making mistakes and not making mistakes and all that. Yeah, I was sexually abused by my mother. Okay? God didn't make no mistake. Sometimes women and dudes do some very terrible things when a child is very, very young and the child don't have no conscious of it. And then the child grows up and think that God did that, but he didn't. That's the other part of that story that your mom didn't tell you. But I know. I was there, and me and my mom had this conversation before and while she was doing it. Because I told her, don't do that, and she did it, and I was only five. And I know she had me a lot earlier than five. I had a little bit of conscious then. That being said, if God forbids all truths to give what they call that equal stuff, calling it -- we'll leave that alone. If y'all choose to give them what they call equal stuff, do it like this, and as they said -- I heard the Supreme Court kind of like said take that over to the other side, because I know separation of church and state. If y'all give those what they call tax credits, then make sure that the church keeps its, because a lot of these hospitals are religiously endowed or supported or whatever they call that stuff, operating. Don't segregate the monies just because the hospitals don't choose to serve who they don't want to serve. Thank you very much.
Thank you, sir, for your testimony. 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING
There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. We will now consider resolutions and bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker, would you please read the title of 130137-A.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Thompson Street, 9th Street, Girard Avenue and Hutchinson Street.
The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a motion.
I'm sorry. My fault. 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING This bill having been read on two separate days, the question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 120775-A.
An ordinance amending Title 19 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Finance, Taxes and Collections," to provide for a private right of action to enforce certain tax laws, including penalties for non-payment.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll again, please.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, please read the 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING title of 120776.
An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions" by amending Section 9-1004, entitled "Contractors," to add additional requirements for obtaining and displaying contractor licenses, and to further provide for regulation, penalties and enforcement.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll, please.
Councilwoman 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING Quinones-Sanchez.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, please call the title of 130230.
An ordinance naming and designating the property located at 12601 Townsend Road as "The Rosemary Montagno Senior Center." 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 121041.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 72 by placing on the City Plan an extension of Cotton Street from its current terminus at the northeasterly side of the Manayunk Canal, southwest of Main Street, southwestwardly to a point approximately twenty-two feet southwest of the southwesterly side of the Canal.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker. 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Councilman Johnson, you have your light on.
Is that inadvertent? Mr. Decker, please read the title of 121042.
An ordinance authorizing the Streets Commissioner to enter into an agreement with the Norfolk Southern Railway Company for the establishment and construction of public at-grade crossings of the tracks of the said Railway Company at the southwesterly side of the Manayunk Canal by proposed extension of Cotton Street and Lock Street.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll. 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, 130079.
An ordinance authorizing 39th and Sansom Street Corporation trading as Cavanaugh's Leprechaun to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 119 South 39th Street.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, 130083.
An ordinance authorizing the plotting upon a portion of City Plan No. 271 of a right-of-way for sewer and drainage purposes extending from the westerly side of Front Street, north of Callowhill Street, westwardly to the Delaware Expressway. 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, 130138.
An ordinance authorizing the Holme Circle Civic Association to construct, own and maintain various right-of-way encroachments on the traffic median located on Holme Avenue where it intersects Welsh Road and Ashton Road.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, 130241.
An ordinance 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Farmers' Markets," by adding Pretzel Park as a permissible location.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, 130224.
An ordinance amending various titles of The Philadelphia Code to provide for equality of treatment of all persons in the City of Philadelphia regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, including by further providing for the definition of "Life Partnership" and "Life Partner," and for protections, rights, benefits, 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING and responsibilities of Life Partners.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. I do -- I have received an e-mail from my friend Michael Williams. I agree with everything that he says in it. I have no disagreements with anyone who has spoken today, and I would like to support this bill. I do have three issues with the bill. I would ask Councilman Kenney to hold the bill to discuss the changes. He has indicated to me this morning that he would not hold the bill. I would like to then just state that I believe that we should provide equality to LGBT, in particular transgender. However, I do think it is important that we do ask for gender-specific identification on school forms such as mother, father. We can include an option of parent, guardian, but I would not want to remove the option 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING of parents identifying themselves as either the mother or father. We have had a lot of data and I think it is important for us to continue to collect data on single fathers, single mothers in our society. I will say also that I am -while I believe we should provide transitional surgeries to those who are transgender at the time of their employment for the City of Philadelphia, I'm not clear on providing new surgeries to new members, as there are many other services that we don't provide in our insurance. I would like the opportunity to discuss more with members of the community to get a better understanding of that issue. So otherwise, I will vote against the bill as it is. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney. 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you, Mr. President. Before I do my very short formal remarks, I just want to take the opportunity to thank my staff, especially Chris Goy, who has worked tremendously on this, along with Stephanie Roza. (Applause.)
I also would like to thank Liberty City and Micah Mahjoubian; the Human Relations Commission, Rue Landau; Gloria Casarez from the Mayor's Office; Kathy Padilla; Jordan Gwendolyn Davis; Michael Williams; Representative Brian Sims, who was so eloquent; and civil rights trailblazer, Mark Segal. We are continuing on the American road to full equality and civil rights for all of our citizens. So in that spirit, I simply have three quotes I'd like to read today. The first is from the Declaration of Independence. "We are endowed by our creator with certain 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING unalienable rights. They are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." The United States Constitution, 14th Amendment, "No state shall deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection under the law." And this morning from a fine young preacher, Reverend Heath, I quote, "They are all God's children and, therefore, precious in his sight. We are required to do the right things to protect them all." In a few moments I'll be looking forward to doing just that. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)
Thank you, Councilman. Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'm afraid I'm going to be disappointing many friends and 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING supporters in this room today. I'm very proud of the record City Council has in supporting the LGBT community and that we had last term under the leadership of Councilman Greenlee. I support almost every aspect of this bill that expands rights and protections, et cetera. I have two problems with it that are both related to the fiscal soundness of the City of Philadelphia. Budgeting is choosing between competing ideas for good with limited resources. I believe that the tax credit is largely a waste of money, because it will go to corporations that already provide this benefit. It will go to Comcast. It will go to major accounting firms, et cetera, and will not be available to expand the benefit in the City. And so I see no reason when we are looking to keep tax rates low and doing other things and considering the 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING budget and lots of competing ideas for good, I see no reason to take $2 million and growing and spend it on something that provides a marginal and incremental benefit. Thank you, Mr. President. I will be voting no.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'm reading the title of this ordinance, which is kind of long, and there's nothing in it that I disagree with. I'll be voting against this. Tax credit I can live with, provided it actually is an incentivizing tax credit, which I believe it is. It's also capped at the 2 million, which I believe it is. The language in the application, while I would think that Councilman Oh's request wouldn't be such 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING a big deal because it would still encompass everyone if you changed it, I can live with the language in the bill, but the changes in the medical insurance for transgender surgery, I'm not there yet. And if that were in the title, it would be much easier for me to have objected to this. So I voted for the Gay Rights Bill, as it was referred to, in 1983 when people told me I was going to lose my election over it. This place was in mayhem during that vote. We had veteran members left to avoid the vote, all kinds of things, but we stood tall, and to my knowledge, as was repeated today, I still think the state and federal government have not taken that step. When it gets beyond inclusion, no one is looking for a unanimous vote. They're looking for a majority vote, and I'm fine with that. But, again, I have no problem with most of this bill, but I will be voting no. 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING Thank you.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. Just one addendum for the record so that the record is clear. The bill does not permit a tax credit to be given to companies who offer same-sex benefits now. Larger companies that mostly all offer them, like Comcast, offer them already and are not entitled to the tax credit. This is for companies who need to get there and don't offer them now. We tried to incentivize them as opposed to penalize them. That's why the Chamber of Commerce supported it. But any large company or any size company that's offering same-sex benefits to partners now will not be eligible for the tax credit. So thank those who are voting yes. 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you, Councilman. Any other speeches? (No response.)
This bill has been read on two separate occasions. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15 and the nays are two. (Applause.)
Sorry. Sorry. Folks, for the record, my math was wrong. It was 14-3. Thank you. Thank you. The majority of all members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. (Applause.)
Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill 130140.
An ordinance amending Title 21 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Miscellaneous," by 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING increasing appointments --
Folks, a little quiet, please. We still have business to conduct. Thank you.
An ordinance amending Title 21 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Miscellaneous," to increase appointments on the Mayor's Commission on Aging.
This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. One second. Are we okay? Thank you, Mr. Decker. Do you have any additional resolutions?
A resolution recognizing the immeasurable contributions Fergus "Fergie" Carey has made to the quality of life in the City 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING of Philadelphia, introduced by Councilman Kenney.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
And a resolution calling on the City Council Committee on Education to hold hearings to examine the feasibility of choosing a locally elected Board of Education and furthermore to examine the process required to do so, introduced by Councilwoman Blackwell.
The 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Public Safety to hold public hearings regarding the implementation of a focused deterrence program citywide in Philadelphia to reduce gun violence, the creation of an Office of Violence Reduction and the appointment of an executive director and appropriate staff 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING to such an office, introduced by Councilman O'Brien.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution and I'd like to be recognized for remarks. (Duly seconded.)
Please do so, sir. It's been moved and properly seconded. Proceed, sir.
Today I introduced two resolutions relating to public safety. One is on the probation and parole, and it's been co-sponsored by Councilman Johnson, Councilman Jones, Councilwoman Bass, and supported by all members. The second is the resolution before us today that was just read by the Clerk, focused deterrence. The co-sponsors are Councilman Johnson, 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING Councilman Jones, Councilwoman Blackwell, Councilwoman Bass, Councilman Squilla, and supported by all members. The first resolution stems from the April 12th, 2013 Public Safety Committee hearing. The dangerous, no warrant culture of the state's probation and parole was exposed in this very Chamber. Therefore, I'm calling on this Committee again to examine the Board's policies and procedures related to parole violations, the number of warrants issued in Philadelphia, and how those numbers compare to the rest of the state. Further, the Committee needs to examine the Board's compliance with court orders directing immediate detention upon a technical violation, as well as their data-keeping procedures. We need to keep drilling down into how the Board runs its shop. We will not stop until we get the real answers and until we get change. My second resolution is about focused deterrence. There have been 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING 4,300 violent crimes in Philadelphia since the start of this year. The number includes 76 homicides and more than 760 gun robberies. Just listen to those numbers. More than 4,300 violent crimes, more than 760 robberies using a gun, 76 murders. I repeat, 76 families that have lost their loved one, 76 Philadelphians who have been denied their full potential. And it's only April. Sadly, we haven't reached the warm weather months where we know this is going to spike. I'm nervous about what that number will be this time in December. We need to utilize smarter ways to stop the senseless end of so many lives and the destruction of families across our city. The focused deterrence strategy has repeatedly demonstrated that serious violence can be dramatically reduced when law enforcement, community members, and social services providers join together to directly engage with violent street 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING groups to clearly communicate three things. One, law enforcement's message that future violence will be met with clear and predictable consequences; second, a community moral message that violence will no longer be tolerated; and, third, that a genuine offer of help to those who want it. This is new, it's creative, and it's effective. This proven and inclusive strategy was designed by Dr. David Kennedy of the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, but Kennedy's roadmap to thoughtfully reduce gun violence is only successful if it's fully implemented with complete buy-in from all of our stakeholders, including the business community, because public safety is a shared responsibility. I believe the City needs to invest in sustainability of focused deterrence and create a permanent structure to organize and administer the strategy. This would include the 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING creation of an Office of Violence Reduction, an appointment of an executive director, and appropriate staff to run and manage the Office of Violence Reduction. Therefore, I'm calling for hearings to explore the implementation of focused deterrence citywide to make Philadelphia a better and safer place, and I move for the adoption and I ask for the support of the members.
It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
And a resolution 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING authorizing Council's Committee on Public Safety to investigate and hold public hearings reviewing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole and its practices in Philadelphia, including the violation of parole conditions, the issuance of technical and direct violation warrants, the recommitment process and the effect these processes have on the safety of the citizens of Philadelphia, introduced by Councilman O'Brien.
Mr. President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
Those opposed? 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)
And a resolution authorizing the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings to review the recommendations of the Philadelphia Jobs Commission, introduced by Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. That resolution is 4/25/13 - STATED - 2ND READING adopted.
And a resolution honoring the African-American Chamber of Commerce of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware on two decades of commitment to supporting the economic empowerment and growth of African-American businesses on the occasion of its 20 year Anniversary, introduced by Councilman Jones and all members of Council.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for its adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
There are no other resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar, Mr. President.
Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. Are there any speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Any speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. Recognition to my colleague who has put forth several ordinances to deal with public safety today. I think they are needed. But as Chair of Public Safety, public safety means different things to different people. To Mr. Grover Edwards, a 74-year-old retiree from the Navy Yard, who lives at 59th and Springfield, public safety meant to be able to go into his door, to enjoy his life in the fourth quarter of that life. According to the Daily News, he was found shot dead and his home set on fire in an attempt to hide the crime that was committed. Today you passed a bill requiring the District Attorney's Office and the Police Department to be a part of the Mayor's Commission on Aging. I think that time has come that we protect our senior citizens. It is a statistical fact that crimes against seniors are on the rise. Coming up before this body also will be a resolution calling for hearings to deal with utility workers that are impersonated in a way to gain entry into our seniors' homes. We need to look at this and add this to the cadre of things that keeps them safe. I've had my colleagues on the Public Safety Committee, Councilman Squilla, who has fought hard for the deed protection, along with the introduction by Councilman Greenlee. I think all of these things work together to protect a population that we should not be in this Chamber having to argue about protecting. They've paid their dues. They've done incredible things. This man, Mr. Edwards, was a grandfather. He had children, and all of them thought that he was safe last night, and it is our job to make that so. As we are, he once was. As he is, we may well be. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you. I rise on behalf of Councilman Dennis O'Brien and myself to announce the first meeting of the School Safety Task Force tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. to support the disabled and special needs population in our School District. Our visitors Judge Dumas; Pedro Ramos, head of the SRC; Dr. William Hite, our Superintendent; representative from the DA's Office and DHS; certainly as well as Cynthia Dorsey in the Police Department, and many others. It will be very, very important. We hope that you will come. And also at 1 o'clock -- both are in the Caucus Room. At 1 o'clock in the Caucus Room, Susan Gobreski of Education Voters of PA and Anne Gemmell of Fight for Philadelphia will present an update from statewide school funding and advocacy, and they will have everything from statewide polling to legislative updates and all other kinds of information. So certainly we hope that folks will make themselves available as they can to attend both at 10:00 and at 1:00. Thank you.
Thank you, Mr. President. One brief announcement. , we will be hosting my annual spring Community Job Fair. We will have more than 50 employers participating. We will also be hosting workshops on interviewing skills as well as resume and cover letter skills as well. So we just want to encourage individuals, if they know of anyone looking for employment during these tough economical times, to please come out and participate. , and we're looking for a large turnout. To also, Council President, I want to commend you and the City Council leadership team for advocating in Harrisburg regarding four pieces of to AVI and really stepping up to the plate and going to Harrisburg and advocating for some level of relief as we address the issue of AVI. And so the first part of that hurdle was the passage out of the Urban Affairs Committee, the means testing bill, which will give us an opportunity to look at how we appropriate and distribute gentrification relief. Also one of the important pieces of legislation is really having the opportunity to tack liens on individuals who have multiple properties throughout the State of Pennsylvania and maybe robbing the City of Philadelphia blind as it relates to them paying their fair share of back taxes and liens. And so I want to acknowledge you and your leadership team for taking the initiative, being proactive very early on in this process and calling on the members of the House to continue pushing the ball down the court as well arrive in the Senate, that they'll also do the right thing on behalf of the residents of Philadelphia. And, Mr. President, even as we discussed AVI during this budget process, a lot of times we tend to focus on the potential effects on homeowners. Without adequate protections, homeowners could be taxed out of their homes. We tend to overlook the fact that huge increases in taxes in certain neighborhoods will have a real impact on long-term renters. Landlords with extraordinary increases in property taxes will pass costs on to renters in the form of increased rent, which can also revolve in individuals becoming homeless. I definitely agree that everyone needs to pay their fair share, especially landlords with multiple investment properties, but we need to be mindful about the implementation of AVI and make sure that the assessments are accurate, because it only affects not but, more importantly, the renter. If AVI isn't done right, we could see neighborhoods change overnight. We also need to be going after landlords who operate multiple investment properties paying for and obtaining the proper licenses without paying for their proper licenses and permits. I think Access Philly did a study on how L&I was still issuing permits, and individuals had outstanding back taxes and liens and them still having the opportunity to build properties. So I'm pretty confident that the commission of L&I has taken a look into this issue, as he mentioned when he did come down to City Council, but we want to make sure that everyone is paying their fair share. And as we move forward in this process, I'll be a consistent advocate to make sure it's not about people not wanting to pay their fair share, but making sure, one, this process is transparent and, two, it's done accurately as we move forward of AVI. And so I wanted to just thank you very much, Council President, as well as your leadership team for stepping up to the plate, going to Harrisburg, putting those bills out there on the table.
And so as we move forward and really get down to the nitty-gritty of our budget process, we can provide a level of relief to those individuals who will be severely impacted by AVI, and, more importantly, they will also gain a level of confidence in this body as it relates to we are trying to do something as opposed to just sitting on the sidelines, but we are in the game. Thank you, Council President.
Thank you, Councilman. And the reality is that our ability to get movement in Harrisburg in some degrees an unprecedented way goes back to our early process when we met with both members of the House of Representatives Philadelphia delegation several times, and I think understanding the need to have those relationships, because the reality is from a legislative perspective, more often than not, it's about the relationship between the two and not necessarily the policy. So all of the members in Council have played a significant role in that, so I want to thank everybody for participating in those early processes. So with that, I'd like to recognize Councilwoman Brown for a motion to adjourn.
Surely, Mr. President. Thank you, Mr. President. I offer a soft reminder to my colleagues to, if your scheduled permits, join us next door, spend a few minutes with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, as we will be there until 1 o'clock. Lastly, I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May 2nd, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May 2nd, 2013, 10:00 a.m. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it. Council shall stand adjourned. Thank you all very much. ) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. MICHELE L. ) A additional 9:24 114:17 117:16 America 71:2 109:24 abandoned 27:23 53:7 82:8 affordable 28:6 American 16:12 apply 139:20 28:11 117:21 afforded 69:15 106:19 appointment ability 57:15 Additionally 28:5 afraid 107:24 Americans 10:18 45:24 119:24 136:21 address 55:16 African 10:18 America's 72:24 124:3 able 3:4,12,18,24 133:5 16:12 34:13 Amy 59:24 appointments 4:18,19,21 13:2 addressed 73:13 African-Ameri... and/or 139:22 115:2,9 56:10 128:25 addressing 136:2 48:21 49:2 angels 57:22 70:7 appreciation 11:7 absence 6:21 7:3 adequate 134:9 127:4,8 animal 24:20 21:18 7:11 adhere 54:16 afternoon 24:9 27:14,21 29:14 approached 55:4 abundantly 3:5 adjourn 137:15 age 9:16 10:5,17 29:19 30:2 32:6 58:6 59:25 abuse 60:22 adjourned 137:24 agents 70:14 32:7 63:13 67:22 abused 74:14 138:5,14,16 Aging 115:10 animals 25:16 72:11 74:3 academic 16:22 ADJOURNME... C 16:18 79:18 82:13 36:22 37:11 13:13 17:15,16 district 19:23 85:3 87:22 43:9,19 48:23 36:24 47:6 25:22 26:8 27:9 E ear 66:7 emerging 20:25 entered 9:5 excellence 16:22 Falkowitz 13:22 earlier 75:4 employee 60:19 entering 56:14 exchange 73:4 13:24 early 24:8 133:23 employees 55:22 entire 30:24 execute 40:20 families 60:25 136:23 137:12 55:23 58:20,21 entirely 31:22 41:10 44:16 65:20 67:6,12 ease 5:20 13:20 59:10,13 66:13 66:19,20 executive 30:22 122:8,18 15:3,4 24:14,15 employer 65:5 entitled 40:7,9 45:25 119:25 family 12:13 61:5 32:21,22 66:11 51:14,15,17 124:3 61:20 62:9 64:6 easier 110:8 employers 66:9 79:12 82:5,7 existed 13:4 64:23,25 65:4 economic 17:15 132:10 101:3 111:14 expand 108:21 65:16,25 70:4 18:8 47:6 48:24 employer-cover...