COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, April 1, 2004 10:10 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILMAN FRANK J. DICICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN JUAN RAMOS COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. The Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats, and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes the Reverend Bruce Edwards, President and CEO of the Urban Leadership Council, a gentleman who is certainly no stranger to this Body. I would ask at this time that all members and guests please rise.
Let us bow. From the rising of the sun until the going down of the same, the Lord's name is to be praised. And so, Father God, it is with praise and it is with thanksgiving that we come before your presence on this day. We call out to you from a special place, a place that is so special that laws are made here, lives are lifted, impacted, and lives are sometimes destroyed as a result of the work that place. But we begin by praising you and thanking you for this place, for being in a land that is a land of freedom, a land where we can worship you in our own way, in our own tongue. And there are those here who are not Christians. There are those here who call you from other faith traditions, but there are those who are here that recognize that there certainly is a power much greater than us all. So we thank you for the opportunity to call upon you. Then we want to ask you, Lord, to bless two distinct groups of people. We ask that you bless these who have been chosen to lead, those who have been made special people because people elected them, people saw in them an ability to do great things. They often are criticized, sometimes harshly. Often they're misunderstood. Often people don't understand the great work that's upon their shoulders, so we pray for their strength and for their courage and for their wisdom collectively and individually. We pray for their families and for their friends. the other group, and that's the group who they govern, some rich, some in the middle, then there are the poor ones, those who you said we'd have with us always. In all of their deliberations, oh, God, we ask that you help them never to forget those who may be even have forgotten themselves because of drug addiction, alcoholism, waywardness, loneliness, so many problems. So we pray for these two distinct groups of people, those who are the governing, the leaders; and those who are the subjects. Your word teaches us to be respectful to the government. You said render unto Caesar that which is Caesar's, but then render unto God that which belongs to him. So help us to do that. Bless this body of legislative leaders, bless of leadership of this City so much so that when our work on this earth is done, you will be able to look at us and we'll be able to know that we've done all that you've assigned in our hand. We pray in Jesus us all say Amen.
The Chair thanks Reverend Edwards for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 25, 2004. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 25, 2004, stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 25, 2004, stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries, and the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 25, 2004, is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence. And again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilman Nutter.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the Republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence at this time.
The Chair this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco who will introduce some visitors we have with us today.
Thank you very much, Madam President. I would like to welcome the City Year Team serving at Olney High School to the Council Chambers today. This team of young people provides tutoring and in-class support at Olney, leads a civic curriculum for 12th graders and assists with college and career counseling. They also run an after school program for students. I am please to have them with us today.
If they would stand, we would like to recognize you and say welcome. (Applause.)
Also, Madam President, I believe in the room are Sonia Bryant and Mike Haywood and some other residents of Logan from the Less Loved Logan Community Organization.
They haven't arrived as yet, I guess. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown who will present a resolution honoring the National Forum for Black Public Administrators. Will Rutherford Thomas please join the Councilwoman and Councilman Goode at the podium, please. I believe Councilwoman Blackwell is being asked to join the other Councilmembers at the podium.
Good morning. It gives me great pleasure to bring to you several members representing the Philadelphia Chapter of the National Foreman For Black Public Administrators. And I would be remiss not to acknowledge in his absence and lift up and sort of celebrate our former Mayor W. Wilson Goode while under his leadership this chapter hosted the first National Forum for Black Public Administrators Conference, and this organization in a magnificent way. And it was also while under his leadership that people of color moved to ranks of position, authority and responsibility in our City government. To that end, honoring and commending the National Forum for Black Public Administrators. Whereas, the National Forum for Black Public Administrators is a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of African American leaders in the public sector; and Whereas, since its founding in 1983, the number of NFBPA members has grown by large numbers to include managers and executives and many disciplines represented in all levels of government; and
Whereas, the National Forum for Black Public Administrators is the country's top association of black public leadership with a stellar reputation for strengthening the capacity of government managers in a wide rigorous training, professional development programs, and well-connected network of black public leaders; and Whereas, the mission of National Forum for Black Public Administrators is embodied in the organization's commitment to strengthen the position of blacks within the field of public administration, to increase the number of blacks appointed to executive positions in public service organizations, and to groom and prepare younger aspiring administrators for senior public management posts in the years ahead; and
Whereas, in 1984 under the leadership of Mayor W. Wilson Goode, the Philadelphia Chapter was born; and Whereas, the first Chapter President was Barbara Daniel Cox who began a string of exceptional presidents which have included Timothy Spencer, Cardel Blue, Oliver Jordan, and current president Rutherford Rusty Thomas; and Whereas, we are honored that the Forum of Black Public Administrators has chosen Philadelphia to host Forum 2004, the national conference of the NFBPA from April 3rd to April 7th;. Now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the City Council of Philadelphia and we hereby honor and commend National Forum for Black Public Administrators. Resolved further that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to our president Rutherford C. Thomas, also known as Rusty, President of the Philadelphia Chapter of NFBPA as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Introduced by Councilmembers Jannie Blackwell, W. Wilson Goode, and Richard Mariano. Sponsored by all the Members of the Philadelphia City Council. Congratulations to NFBPA.
The Chair recognizes Mr. Rutherford Thomas for remarks.
Thank you, Madam President. my Lord and Savior. I'd like to thank all who have participated in this recognition. It is definitely a humbling experience, but let me not be remiss and mention to you that the membership that you see behind me is only a small part of the body that makes this organization in Philadelphia viable. We are hosting our 21st conference here this year. We invite you, if you are available, to participate in our public policy foreman on Sunday at the Lowes Hotel where we will be discussing public education and its impact on young African American children in big cities today. I would like to thank specifically Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, a member of this great chapter for about 17 or 18 years; Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, a member of this organization; Councilman W. Wilson Goode and all of the others of this great body who have not only been members, but who have been supportive of this organization for the past 20 years. Thank you, God bless you, and by the experience. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller who will present a resolution honoring the girls basketball team of Central High School. Will Mr. Frank Greco and his team please join the Councilwoman at the podium? And Councilman Goode will also make a presentation. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Good morning. Speaking on behalf of City Council, it's a pleasure to honor and recognize the Central High School Lady Lancers on winning the Philadelphia Public League Title Championship. Whereas, Central High School Lady Lancers beat the tough University City Lady Jaguars by a score of 73 to 65 to win the championship title; and Whereas, Central High School Girls Varsity Basketball Team has won consecutively Public League Championships in the years 2002, 2003, and 2004; and Whereas, due to an entrance in the Pennsylvania Intercollegiate Athletic Association, the 2003-2004 championship is also the PIAA district's 12th championship; and
Whereas, the Central High School Lancers have won 48 straight Public League basketball games over the past three years and that the record for the year 2004 was 24 wins and 3 losses; and Whereas, the senior members of the team have a career record of 92 wins and 18 losses; and Whereas, Ashley Edwards, with 19 points and 9 rebounds, was named the game's MVP. And Ashley Moore was the floor leader at guard, scoring 21 points with the supporting cast of fellow seniors, Sheree Middlebrook and Megan Ellis; and Whereas, the four senior members of attending colleges and universities and have all been all public at some point during their four years a Central; and Whereas, a credit to these young ladies who have maintained a high level of academic achievement, a credit to Coach Frank Greco who has coached the team for five years, and to the teachers and leadership of Central High School for the tremendous accomplishment.
Before I end the resolution, I'd like to at least recognize all the members of the varsity basketball team that are here. Members of the team, Sarah Jones, Ashley Morris, Dominique Adams, Megan Ellis, Meredith Love, Nicole Hines, Shannon Ellis, Malary Malaki, Talisha McClure, Gita Brown, Sharay Middlebrook, Ashley Edwards, Danielle Adams. The team manager is Tassi White. The coach athletic director is Frank Greco. Assistant coaches, Janice Evans, Vince Parzella; the demonstrator, Ron Montgomery; the mascot Lancer and the academic coordinator Misten Knowles. of the City of Philadelphia, the Central High School Girls Varsity Basketball team is honored for winning the 2004 Public League Championship. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution is presented to the members of the championship team, to the coach and leadership of Central High School as an expression of the recognition, gratitude and sincere appreciation of this Legislative Body. Certified that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 18th day of March 2004. Signed by Anna C. Verna, President. Introduced by Donna Reed Miller and sponsored by all Members of City Council.
I would just like to say thank you very much. It's a wonderful honor here, for Councilman Goode and Councilwoman Reed Miller to have us and to take the time out of your busy schedule to recognize the girls on just a wonderful, wonderful achievement. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President. I would like to recognize a young man who is in attendance today, Robert Somerville. Will you please stand, Robert? (Applause.)
Robert is the first African American to receive the prestigious Joey Tappaletti Award. Robert currently attends a Lawrence parochial school in Highland Park. And besides being a great athlete, he is an outstanding student. Robert is putting his outstanding football talents on its in the all star game in Upper Darby Stadium on July 24th. In the fall, Robert will be attending West Catholic High School here in Philadelphia and plans to go to college after graduation. This is a young man with a very bright future. Congratulations, Robert.
Before we get started, could I introduce my group? They're here.
Thank you. I would like to have Sonia Bryant, Mike Haywood and the residents from Logan stand please. They're from Less Loved Logan, a community organization which is organized for the last five years to deal with some of the problems in their community, and they're working very that we continue on with our development of the Logan sinking home area as well as revitalizing the surrounding area. And we are glad to have them here. We thank them for their support in that community.
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. THE
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am returning the following bill passed by Council at its Session on March 18, 2004, as unsigned: Bill No. 040093. And I am pleased to advise you that on April 1, 2004, I signed the following bills that were passed by Council on it Session on March 18, 2004: Bill No. 040029, 040030, 040031, and 040066. And I am transmitting for the body a draft of 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 Brewerytown Urban Renewal Area. And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Mantua Urban Renewal Area. 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 Brewerytown Urban Renewal area. And I am transmitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body the following ordinance authorizing the construction of sewers and appurtenant work on portions of Garnet Street. the construction of sewers and appurtenant work in portions of Opal Street. And an ordinance authorizing the creation of a loan or loans to provide funds for and toward various capital municipal purposes, authorizing the Mayor, City Controller, and City Solicitor or a majority of them to sell bonds at a public or private negotiated sale and fixing a day for holding the election for obtaining such consent and providing for the arrangement for holding such election. And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to enter into a lease agreement to lease from the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development portions of a building located at 4500 South Broad Street, under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance approving the second amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the 45th and Sansom Urban Renewal Area. And an ordinance approving the second amendment for the redevelopment proposal for the Kingsessing Urban Renewal Area. And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2004 within the Grants Revenue Fund from the Director of Finance, provision for other grants to the Director of Finance.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession. THE
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor of the motion will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Public Employees Retirement Code" by amending 22-400 entitled "Disability Benefits," by a amending Section 22-401 relating to service connected disability retirement benefits and Section 22-402 relating to ordinary disability retirement benefits to delete provisions related to a reduction of benefit for gainful employment, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today, I introduce two bills and one resolution on your behalf and four bills and four resolutions on my behalf.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first bill. THE
An ordinance approving the second amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the 45th and Sansom Urban Renewal Area.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance authorizing the creation of a loan or loans to provide funds for and toward various capital municipal purposes.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "City Funds, Deposits, Investments, Disbursements," by adding New Life Credit Union to the list of City depositors.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance approving the second amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Kingsessing Urban Renewal Area.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to enter into a lease agreement to lease from the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development portions of a building located at 4500 South Broad Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
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 the Mantua Urban Renewal Area.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of the next resolution. THE
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 24th and 44th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of the next resolution. THE
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of the Public Property to execute and deliver to the City of Philadelphia deeds located in the 6th and 24th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. THE
And a resolution authorizing the Committee of the Whole to conduct hearings on the recommendations put forth by the members of the Philadelphia 21st Century Review Forum.
The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the Committee of the Whole. The Clerk will please read the next resolution. THE
A resolution memorializing the Governor and General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to adopt a program to supplement the Federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program appropriation that will be available for all households throughout the Commonwealth that qualify for federal assistance.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will please signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. I believe there was another bill. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title. THE
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "City Funds, Deposits Investments and Disbursements" by adding Hudson United Bank to the list of City depositories.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill. THE
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriation for Fiscal Year 2004 within the Grants Revenue Fund from the Director of Finance, provisions for other grants to the Department of Human Serves, Office of Emergency Shelter Services.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2004 from the General Fund, certain or all offices, departments, boards and commissions from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 7th, 18th, 19th and 37th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE
A resolution memorializing City Council's opposition to petition of the Philadelphia Gas Works to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission to establish a cash receipts reconciliation clause and further authorizing the President to transmit copies of this resolution to the PUC.
Move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. I'm offering an amendment to Bill No -
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I have offer no bills or resolutions did this morning.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution co-introduced and sponsored by 15 Members of Council.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE
A resolution adopting the recommendations of the Greater Philadelphia Urban Affairs Coalition Small Business Lending Task Force, including the three-year 47 million small business target area growth initiative as a key element of the 500 million Economic Development Investment Fund to increase small business lending by 100 million annually to target areas.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE
A resolution honoring and congratulating Philip Boseman, the Overbrook High School Mock Trial Team members and their supporters for Overbrook High School second victory in the Pennsylvania Mock Trial Championship.
Madam President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill on behalf of Councilmember Clarke myself and you, Madam President.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An ordinance authorizing Samuel Rappaport, also known as Samuel Asset Management, 722 Market Street, its successors and assigns to construct, own and maintain raised planters on the public footways for nine properties in Center City, under certain terms and conditions.
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 six bills and one resolution.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first bill. THE
An ordinance amending Section 14-305 of the Philadelphia Code relating for C-4 Commercial and C-5 Commercial Districts by requiring that prior to the issuance of certain permits a Zoning Board of Adjustment certificate be obtained.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance, Bill No. 020741, approved January 23, 2003, entitled an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 58 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Warnock Street from Wallace Street to Melon Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 119 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Perty Street and widening Franklin Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance granting permission to Ratilal Patel, owner of the newsstand at the southwest corner of 15th Street and Ranstead Street to construct, use, and maintain an electrical conduit with electrical service line and communication with a telephone service line.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance authorizing the construction of sewers and appurtenant work in portions of Garnet Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance authorizing the construction of sewer and appurtenant work on portions of Opal Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. I would ask the Clerk to please read the title of the resolution. THE
A resolution proclaiming April 18 to 24, 2004 as Medical Laboratory Professionals Week in Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you. The next order of business is Chair recognizes Blackwell for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee of the Whole reports out one bill and one resolution with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report. THE
The President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee of the whole to which was referred Bill No. 040157, entitled an ordinance creating the 436 Walnut Tax Increment Financing District being the area generally bounded by Walnut Street on the north, Fourth Street on the east, Fifth Street on the west and Spruce Street on the south; And Resolution No. 040160, entitled a resolution confirming the appointment of Pedro A. Ramos as City Solicitor; Respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Bill No. 040157 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar at our next Council Session. And Resolution No. 040160 will be considered at the end of today's Calendar. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a report from the joint Committees of the Whole and the Committee on Housing Neighborhood Development and Homeless.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee of the Whole and the Homeless Neighborhood Development and Housing Committee reports out one bill with a favorable recommendation.
I'm sorry. It absolutely is. One resolution with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the joint Committee of the Whole and Housing Neighborhood Development and the Homeless to which was referred Resolution No. 040095, entitled a resolution amending Fiscal Year 2004 Program Statement and Budget for the expenditure of the Neighborhood Transformation Initiative, the NTI bond proceeds, respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached resolution to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Resolution NO. 040095 will be placed at the end of today's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a report from Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Rules reports two bills 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. 040024 entitled an ordinance amending Section 14-1200 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Pending Public Acquisition District by designating a Pending Public Acquisition District; And Bill No. 040183 entitled an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Delaware Avenue, Cottman Avenue, I-95 Expressway and Rhawn Street; Respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Madam President, I move that the Rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of Bill 040024 and 040183. (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 Bill Nos. 040024 and 040183. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have, and the bills just read will be placed on today's First Reading Calendar. The next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. The Chief Clerk will please read the bills on the First Reading Calendar. THE
Bill No. 040092, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within the Street and the Manayunk Canal.
And Bill No. 040024, an ordinance amending Section 14-1200 of the Philadelphia Code entitled Pending Public Acquisition District by designating a Pending Public Acquisition District in the area bounded on the east by North 30th Street, on the north by Race Street, on the west by North Broad Street, and on the South by Arch Street.
And Bill No. 040183, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Delaware Avenue, Cottman Avenue, I-95 Expressway and Rhawn Street.
The Chair agrees. First Reading Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar to be considered today.
Thank you, Madam President. Today Bill Nos. 040117, 040118, 040132 and 040136 will be amended. Bill No. 040138 will be called up for second reading and final passage, and all other bills are being held.
The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 040117. THE
An ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Safety," by adding a new Section 10-831 entitled "Straw and Multiple Gun Purchase Reduction," to limit purchase of firearms by Philadelphia residents.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, these amendments to Members in the Caucus. These amendments on this bill and the subsequent bills that will called up for amendment were done to better enable ultimate passage in Harrisburg for authorization. They are technical in nature in some respects and changes certain terms and definitions. And on one subsequent bill there will be a safety training added to that particular bill. Right now, I'd like to offer an amendment to Bill No. 040117 and ask that this amendment be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the amendment as provided to all Members of Council be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. will please read the title of Bill No. 040118. THE
An ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Safety" by adding a new Section 10-834 entitled "Sale Or Transfer of Ammunition" to require all sales of ammunition for firearms to be reported to the City of Philadelphia Police Department.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I offer an amendment to Bill No. 040118 and ask that it be considered. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the amendment be approved to Bill No. 040118. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. The Clerk title of Bill No. 040132. THE
An ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Safety," by adding a new Section entitled "Prohibited Possession, Sale and Transfer of Firearms by Persons Subject to Protection From Abuse Orders.
Thank you, Madam President. I'm offering an amendment to this bill. The amendment actually will add a time period into the process when someone has a temporary protection order. I move for the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the amendment be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 040136. THE
An ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Safety," by adding a new section entitled "Acquisition or Transfer of Firearms" to regulate the acquiring or transferring of any firearm within the City of Philadelphia.
Madam President, I move that the amendment to Bill 040136 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the amendment, as circulated, to Bill No. 040136 be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 040138. THE
An ordinance approving the first amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Wistar III Urban Renewal Area being the area generally bounded by Wakefield Street and Baynton Street between Wistar Street and Shedaker on the north and declaring that condemnation is not eminent with respect to the project.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. THE
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes.
Madam President, I have to leave to attend the funeral of Reverend John L. Bryant in my district, a committee man, a veteran and a I would like to be reported as voting aye on all bills, amendments and resolutions.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Resolution 040495. THE
A resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2004 program statement and budget for the expenditure of the Neighborhood Transformation Initiative, the NTI bond proceeds.
Councilwoman Tasco, would you please make a motion on this resolution?
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 040095 be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and Resolution No. 040095 has been adopted. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Resolution No. 040160. THE
A resolution confirming the appointment of Pedro A. Ramos as City Solicitor.
Madam President, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. Councilman Ramos.
Before we proceed vote, as I stated at the Tuesday Committee meeting of the Whole, I am closely related to the City Solicitor designee, therefore, I have to per the City of Philadelphia Code recuse myself from participating from the process confirming the City Solicitor designee. I will not be able to speak of his qualities nor will I be able to vote for him. However, I can be present for this extraordinary moment in my family history. Madam President, I request to speak after the confirmation process.
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Resolution No. 040160 be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the Ramos family, I commend you, my colleagues for confirming the designation of Pedro Ramos as City Solicitor of our great City. I also commend Mayor Street for having good judgment in selecting Pedro as the City's top lawyer. The Mayor, since taking office, has appoint in succession and the Council has confirmed three highly qualified Hispanic Americans to the post of City Solicitor. Latino Philadelphia is taking notice and they are so delighted. I told you before this vote that I am closely related to him. He is my brother. I consider my brother Pedro to be a man of the highest character, earnest, capable and a dedicated public servant. Congratulations, Pedro. (Applause.)
That concludes our Calendar for today. Are there speeches on the part of the Minority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Madam President, as you are aware, yesterday began the process of analyzing the Mayor's Five-Year Plan. And of course, you're also aware the City is facing a series of budgetary cuts to make up for $227 million deficit. I know that we'll be forced to make difficult decisions, but I'm very concerns and troubled of the proposed cuts to arts and culture. Arts and culture organizations are the cornerstone of the first class city, yet in Philadelphia they're the first to be cut when faced with financial distress. In comparison to other major cities, Philadelphia is at the bottom of the list in financial support for the arts, and yet our arts community is nationally renown. Last year alone over 11 million traveled to this City to visit our museums, as opposed to a little over 3 million people to our sports stadiums. Just think about that. With all the media hype and with all of the money that Philadelphia gives to our sports teams, that's the Phillies, the Flyers, Eagles, the 76ers, they just generate 3 million people. Yet our cultural institutions bring in over 11 million with very little media hype or very little money from the City. In shear numbers, arts and cultural generates more money to this City than any other industry. Instead of cutting funds, we should be investing in this industry so they can broaden their reach and attract even more visitors to our City. I hope that you will all work, all of my colleagues, with me not only to stop the proposed cuts but to increase funding for such institutions. In doing so, we'll be acting in the best interest of our City both financially and culturally. Thank you, Madam President. (Applause.)
Are there the part of the Minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Thank you, Madam President. Two points today. The first point is the Daily News Carl Anderson has been writing a series of articles this week about prostitution in the City of Philadelphia. I am amongst a few of the District Councilpeople here whose district is plagued by this crime, which people say is a victimless crime. Carla is in negotiations now. I spoke with her yesterday with the City Solicitor's Office, I suspect -- I don't know if it's Pedro yet -- and with the Police Commissioner about publishing the names and photos of these people that were arrested, to so-called Johns. I want to take it a step further and the next Council Session, I want introduce a solution to have hearings to put cable television station, which is down most of the time -it's not down, but it runs a cycle and leaves information besides some of the Council hearings and the Council sessions, so maybe we can do that. This is a serious crime. I want to commend Ms. Anderson for her work and ask her to keep it up and ask whoever is in charge, the City Solicitor or whoever it is, the Law Department, to make sure that this happens. It happens in other cities around the country and it's very important. This will go on forever, for my two terms and this is my third term in council, it has always been a major problem along Frankford and Kensington Avenue, as I know it is in Councilman DiCicco and your district on Broad Street and other parts, sometimes down in Port Richmond in Councilwoman Krajewski's. So I want to commend her again and ask the City to step up to the plate here. The second point I have is much further away.
Excuse me. I think the City Solicitor is still in the room so perhaps he could look into this matter.
Thank you. And I would thank the City Solicitor. The second point is a little further away. I spoke here a couple months ago about staffer of mine, Patrick Dugan who is in Iraq with special operations group trying to establish a new government. I have a short message from Pat that I want to read to you and everyone else here to understand from somebody who's there exactly what's going on. I left some of the personal stuff in the language that wouldn't be right, not that Mr. Dugan would say that. He starts out the letter -- I sent him a e-mail about the Governor and his problems with driving a little too fast. Pat knows the Governor. He asks the Governor publically to slow down, but maybe that's why they call him "Fast Eddie." That's Pat's words, not mine, Governor. "Remember the photo that I sent to you with me and Brian Powers here in Iraq? Well, the Iraqi in the photo carrying the FP lost his foot in a mine field the other day. It was a mess. We went up to the mountain and the mine field, gave him first aid and brought him back. I am back in Mosul every day now downtown with the city council and the state council. The mayor runs their council --" it has nothing to do with Philadelphia, I'm sure "-- and the government runs the state council. The old governor was fired the other day and we were out looking for other people." And he says if anyone if Philly's Council wants to be governor of this town, send a resume to him; they're looking for people with experience. "I wear civilian clothing everyday and I am guarded by the same people, the black water security people that we saw on the news last, the two charred bodies hanging from the bridge. "Last week I organized a town hall meeting with a female government official who is Kurd. After the meeting, we had dinner 15 people and went on her way. On her way back to Mosul, three of her guards were killed in an ambush and she survived the ambush and she is now an Iraqi councilmember." We're going to try to set something up -- this is serious. I know I kid around a lot, but we're going to try to go to Iraq possibly sometime in August if we can work this out. I don't know if it's going to be easy, some people with some experience in government, maybe some people with experience in building trades, some people from the Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, possibly with business because -- the other letter he sent me was for some people that -- they make water. A water bottling plant they can't manage, simple things that we do. So I just want everyone to know Pat's thinking about us, we're thinking about Pat, but there's lot of other Pat Dugans out there. You watch the news, you see things, people that are against this war, be against the war, just don't forget the warrior. Thank you, Madam President.
I think we have to continue to keep all of them in our prayers. Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. As Chair of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs, I'd like to go on record as supporting Councilman Jack Kelly's remarks 1,000 percent. All of us know that we were successful in actually increasing the cultural fund's budget in my last term. And I pledged to work with all of the members of the Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs and you for us to come up with a better way of bringing the arts back to where they were in a way that is reasonable and responsible. Thank you very much.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Thank you, Madam President. I also want to associate myself We often don't hear from Councilman Kelly over a period of time, and I wanted to note on this occasion I approve wholeheartedly of everything he said, just as I disagreed with him the last comment he made. But I also want to add, on the question of the budget, I think that Pete Matthews, the President of District 33, has very interesting -- I would call it would call it not bad, I don't know what the Daily News calls it -- column in today's Daily News. It's in the Op Ed position. He notes, among other things, that the contract time the city unions are coming and it's often very common that we get these very bleak financial reports the year the contracts are due. And he also talks of the plight of City workers. I think it important for everybody to read it carefully and get everybody's point of view on this issue. If we're faced with economic problem and a strike, Philadelphia is truly going to be hard pressed for answers. So we've got our work cut out for us. again, thank you, Councilman Kelly, and thank you, Councilwoman Brown, for your views or the arts and culture. I believe that that's the heart and soul if Philadelphia, and we've got to support them. Thank you.
Thank you. Are there any other speeches on the part of the Majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the Council stand adjourned until Thursday, April 15, 2004.. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the and the motion carries. Thank you. (Council adjourned at 11:10 a.m.) C E R T I F I C A T I O N I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Thursday, April 10, 2004, were reported fully and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of the same. RE: STATED MEETING _________________________ Lisa C. Bradley, RPR