Okay.24 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: And I'll25 166 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 provide that to the Chair.2
Thank you.3 If you look at -- Madam Chair,4 those are my detail budget questions. I5 have a few other very specific things,6 and I'll just get them to you for7 response.8 Thank you, Madam Chair.9 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: Thank10 you.11 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:12 You're welcome.13 The Chair recognizes Councilman14 Jones.15
Thank you,16 Madam President.17 I wanted to go on a line and18 continue on the line of the matrix of19 services that are available, particularly20 for that client population of after21 school. One of the things that we22 noticed in our travels was that there are23 a lot of excellent opportunities here,24 there and around the City that are both25 167 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 public and also private kinds of2 recreational activities, and I wanted to3 know to what degree we're coordinating4 with entities like Arthur Ashe. I5 understand they want to do an intense6 summer tennis program in recreation7 departments, and I wanted to know if8 we're capitalizing on that type of9 synergy that is available.10 And, B, during the year, is11 there a way to work on, either through12 some additional -- going after additional13 funding or working with the School Board14 to provide transportation from the school15 buses to particular after-school16 facilities directly, thus allowing17 parents a greater latitude of where their18 kids can participate in recreational and19 after-school activities? I hope you got20 all that. I'll repeat it if you --21 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: Well,22 Councilman Jones, if I could start here23 real quick. The Chief Education Officer,24 Dr. Shorr, has pulled a group of --25 168 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 pulled together a number of people,2 including the School District of3 Philadelphia, one, so we can get a handle4 on duplicating services; two, so we can5 start supporting one another in what we6 do. And so I'll know what they're doing,7 they'll know what I'm doing, and we can8 ensure that we're funneling kids to the9 right resources. And so the School10 District is a big part of what the11 Department of Recreation does.12 Arthur Ashe has been a part of13 the Department of Recreation for a number14 of years. We host tennis at just about15 every last one of our tennis sites during16 the summer, and the Arthur Ashe staff,17 they are providing the -- operating the18 programs for our young people that attend19 our teen camps, that attend our summer20 camps. And so we do have a partnership21 and a relationship with Arthur Ashe22 currently and it has been going on.23
I mean, as24 we start to develop this matrix that I25 169 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 requested from Mr. Agostini, it would be2 helpful to Councilmembers but, more3 importantly, to the end users such as4 parents to be able to look at a matrix5 and say, Here's where my kid can get a6 wonderful tennis experience. My interest7 may be in swimming pools, and over here8 they have a world-class pool over at the9 Crock Center on Wissahickon Avenue and10 over here there's a soccer experience,11 and down the line football is my thing.12 Shepard does a wonderful football13 program. But the point of it is that14 they have a menu of options and then15 means to get to those options, and by16 working with the School District, if we17 work to coordinate transportation18 efforts, they could be dropped off19 directly at a rec center that has a20 participating program. If we could just21 put our minds around the coordination of22 that or, dare I say, independently if the23 Rec Department had a transportation24 system that kind of had bus routes and25 170 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 opportunity routes. And I know that's an2 expensive proposition. I know we're in a3 recession. I know we have a budget4 deficit, but we should not plan our way5 in today, but plan our way to a better6 tomorrow, and one of those better7 tomorrows is giving parents an option to8 all of the things that you do have, but9 they just can't find out where and how to10 get there.11 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: One of12 the things that was done last year as a13 direct result of PhillyStat, a huge14 manual was put together of just what15 you're talking about, and that manual16 identified all of the summer programs17 that were offered throughout the City.18 And if I'm not mistaken, I believe that19 they're in the process of trying to put20 that out again. And we ensured that that21 was distributed to the School District,22 to the library, to all of our recreation23 facilities, and it not only listed the24 Department of Recreation, it listed every25 171 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 after-school, every summer program that2 was offered throughout the City.3
As we look4 at the prospect of pool closings -- and5 that's a reality that we have to deal6 with, but one of those things as I7 mentioned is where is Plan B for my child8 this summer, where is the pool that is9 open to them, but also we have to be10 cognizant -- and I know you're aware of11 this based on the Powell experience that12 you had -- is that when you cross a13 boundary line that as a planner and as a14 City representative of Recreation, you15 don't recognize that that's the16 difference between one community versus17 another, and often there is youth18 conflict that follows crossing that19 boundary. So to close one pool and say20 let's just go down two miles to the next21 one often can be a life and death kind of22 challenge for a young person.23 So we have to, in my opinion,24 kind of plan for some of these things,25 172 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 plan for them both by way of security but2 by way of safe transportation. So as we3 start to evolve -- and this is new for4 you by way of closings and having to5 navigate through this, and it's new for6 us by way of elected officials getting7 these requests. We have to put our heads8 together to figure out better ways to get9 kids to and from opportunities that are10 still available to them.11 So as we develop this matrix,12 it's not just a logistics of where things13 are, but it also should be a logistics of14 how do we get there and how do real world15 crossing of boundaries work, and is it16 better for me to send my children from17 the 4th District maybe skip a recreation18 center and go down to one in Councilwoman19 Blackwell's district where there is a20 little more -- a little less friction21 that might be going on between the two22 communities.23 So we really shouldn't have to24 plan our way around these things, but at25 173 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 the end of the day, it is far better that2 we give a little prevention and thought3 to this process versus figuring out why4 we're standing at a funeral. And so I5 just want to urge us to kind of take into6 account those kinds of logistical7 barriers that we face.8 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: Thank9 you, Councilman Jones.10
One last11 thing -- and the time clock is working in12 my favor. I see Charlie McPherson is not13 there. I'll get one more question in and14 I'll yield.15 Particularly, Abbotsford and16 working with Philadelphia Housing17 Authority is another kind of cooperative18 joint venture that I think we should19 continue -- and I know we do -- but20 continue to explore. I went up21 Abbotsford, and we have a beautiful22 facility that is a multi-purpose center23 there. It has a beautiful stage,24 electronic screen. It is pristine in25 174 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 every way. When I walked in there, it2 was a first-class facility, but we don't3 have programs out of there. So I'm4 looking to see if there's peanut butter,5 jelly that we can bring together to make6 a sandwich by way of recreational7 opportunities in Abbotsford.8 There are 250-plus families9 there, everything from young people to10 senior citizens, who would love to deal11 with exercise such as tai chi, but12 there's not a lot of activities, a lot of13 programming, and that was one of the14 complaints that I got from the residents15 there. I wanted to figure out where can16 we, how do we make those connect the dots17 to the resources that may be available to18 people in that area. Because they're a19 little outside of East Falls. They're a20 little outside of Hunting Park. So21 they're kind of in between.22 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: The one23 thing I could suggest, being mindful of24 our own budget constraints, it is always25 175 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 a lot easier to bring the staff from2 Abbotsford over to the Department of3 Recreation, allow us to do some training4 in programming, maybe they shadow some of5 our facility rec leaders for a week or a6 month, because we are not in a position7 to provide programming for other8 facilities, but I do believe that you9 could gain a lot if you shadow some of10 our rec leaders, and they pick up the11 necessary tools that they need to take12 back and run those same programs at their13 facilities.14
I appreciate15 that invitation, but if you know16 Abbotsford, it's like a self-contained17 community. And I'm going to take you up18 on that, but it seems as though we could19 go after RFPs from other places such as20 the state maybe.21 COMMISSIONER DiBERARDINIS: If22 you don't mind, I think you hit,23 Councilman, on a very interesting point.24 If you look at the data, the research25 176 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 data, the most success in working with2 young people is when there's combined3 services or combined interventions or4 combined programs. It's rare when a5 single institution or a single agency can6 have a positive, meaningful, long-term7 impact on children and young people,8 whether you're keeping them safe, whether9 you're helping them become better ready10 to learn or healthier.11 So in order to hit those marks,12 it's the kind of seamless collaborative13 approaches that you're talking about with14 the Housing Authority or other members15 were talking about with the School16 District or with the libraries or even17 with the combined agencies.18 So I think there is something19 very important in your question, and,20 that is, how do we provide like the21 density and the level of service that22 works with families and communities and23 young people in a way that you can really24 measure your impact over the long term.25 177 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 So your question I take very2 serious about how do we build those3 relationships, how do we align program4 interests, how do we make sure that we're5 hitting the quality mark to get the6 impact, and what are those impacts that7 we're looking for. So I just want to --8 I welcome that question, and hope that --9 and I know the Mayor cares deeply about10 this and I know I have his support in11 trying to move forward and think of how12 we do that with our sister agencies and13 our large non-profit organizations and14 with neighborhood groups.15
Thank you16 for that comment, and that's right on the17 line of what I was thinking.18 Commissioner Slawson has worked a great19 deal of time to manage her way through20 some of the crisis that she found as a21 new Commissioner, and one of them was22 space realignment, whether or not the23 School District's facility or the24 Recreation Department's facility or in25 178 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 this case PHA's facility was the best2 facility to house a program that actually3 gets to the end user.4 So I don't want us -- and even5 though the library was the worst case of6 engagement processes that we may have7 went through, but I think both Council8 and the Administration learned from it,9 and as we move forward with the pools, as10 we move forward with other11 consolidations, that we will take and use12 the good out of that by saying what is13 the inventory of buildings, physical14 plant that we have, what's the best one,15 and do we want to run this program, that16 program out of which facility. And I17 think that deserves the best of our18 planning, and if we can do that and19 maximize our resources in these tough20 times, it will go a lot further than it21 has in the past.22 Thank you.23 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: Thank24 you.25 179 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1
Thank2 you.3 The Chair recognizes4 Councilwoman Brown.5
Thank you,6 Madam President.7 This discussion triggered for8 me everything that the Commissioner just9 mentioned. And so with all due respect10 to what PhillyStat, the important work11 that they have done, the previous12 Administration did as much work in making13 sure that DHS, who is an important matrix14 in this wheel, the Art Museum has15 beautiful after-school programming, the16 libraries, the Rec Department and also17 the schools, and what has been lacking is18 a willingness by professionals to reach19 across systems and pull this world of20 out-of-school programming together under21 one matrix, as Councilman Jones has22 spoken of.23 So I'm delighted to hear that24 the Commissioner gets it, and when you25 180 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 say "seamless collaborative approaches"2 where we -- where parents have options3 and many choices, because they're out4 there but they have been -- not a5 continuing, not a thread, but runs6 through all of those different systems7 and departments.8 So a couple of points I needed9 to make. PhillyStat is doing great work.10 DHS has had a document about that thick11 for the last six or seven years that12 lists any and every out-of-school program13 you could think of across the City. It14 grew exponentially -- I mean,15 incrementally over the years by making it16 better and more user friendly. So it's17 great to know that that work is18 continuing. And the challenge19 continues around us as a city pulling20 together all those worlds that are doing21 the best they can to make life different22 for children. And so it behooves us to23 remember them all: DHS, the Art Museum24 of Philadelphia, the libraries, the Rec25 181 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 Department and now -- and the School2 District has always done it, but my3 experience in the time that I've been4 here is that for reasons I don't5 understand and won't go into, there was6 some resistance to pulling those worlds7 together, including the School District.8 Do you follow me?9 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: I do.10
So thank11 you, Commissioner, for recognizing that12 we still have work to do in that area.13 Thank you, Madam Chair.14 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:15 You're welcome.16 The Chair recognizes Councilman17 Green.18
Thank you.19 Just a couple of quick20 questions. The first is, do you have a21 property management system?22 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: Our23 operations deputy, maintenance.24
I'm sorry.25 182 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: Property2 maintenance is managed by our Maintenance3 Department.4
Do you have5 a property management system so you know6 where each property is in the City, what7 maintenance has to be done there, a8 regular maintenance schedule?9 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: We have10 a work order system that we've just11 actually gotten up and running in the12 past eight months. The Department has13 had it for some time, but we've been14 using it, and that's how we've been able15 to track our work orders and how many we16 were behind and how many we've been able17 to close out and how many we currently18 have now. Yes, we do have a work order19 system.20
A work order21 system would be one aspect of a property22 management system. Do you have like a23 property management system?24 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: To25 183 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 identify where all of our property is?2 I'm not sure.3
One system4 that identifies your properties, knows5 what maintenance needs to be done.6 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: We don't7 have one system that does that, sir. We8 do not.9
Okay. Thank10 you.11 I had one more question, but12 I've lost it, Madam Chair. I'll send it13 to them.14
Thank15 you.16 The Chair recognizes17 Councilwoman Blackwell.18
Thank19 you, Madam President.20 I certainly want to greet both21 Commissioners. We've worked with Mike22 DiBerardinis on the state level and when23 he was here, and we look forward to24 working with you in the future and25 184 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 appreciate all that you know. And I want2 to say a special thanks to Commissioner3 Slawson and her team, Mr. Johnson and all4 of you. I know there is a lot to be done5 and I know that -- I know of your6 commitment. We've walked many streets7 and talked about the vacant properties8 and everything from the ice rink to area9 that's just locked in where we need to do10 more, and I know how committed you both11 are. And certainly I don't know what12 changed rings. I know that I look13 forward to working with you in the future14 and still need to talk with you in more15 detail about what's going to happen this16 summer. Again, I just want to say thank17 you.18 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: Thank19 you, Councilwoman Blackwell.20
Thank21 you.22 The Chair recognizes Councilman23 Jones.24
Just real25 185 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 quick. And your endurance is wonderful.2 I wanted to ask in reference to a lot of3 the changes in funding streams, is there4 an RFP committee that meets regularly to5 take advantage of some of the6 opportunities both in the private7 foundations and within the federal8 government and possibly even state9 funding that could be applicable to your10 department? Because as I look at your11 testimony and you cutting some of the rec12 trainees and some of the -- it just seems13 to me that you have all the14 infrastructure in the world and all of15 the kinds of trappings that make for a16 good match to some of the programs that17 want to go out there.18 Is there a group of folk that19 maybe is shepherded by the Mayor's Office20 or some interdepartmental committee that21 kind of looks at you as an asset and says22 that we could partner with this23 organization, that organization and24 receive X funding?25 186 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: I think2 that's a twofold answer. I believe Keri3 Salerno, who works for the Mayor, her job4 is to raise additional funds for the5 City, as well as while we were under6 Health and Opportunity, whenever7 opportunities came up with private8 partnerships that we could submit RFPs9 for, the opportunities -- they ensured10 that we knew. But does the Department of11 Recreation have that group in our office?12 No.13
Because I14 just really think that the City as a15 whole, but your department in particular,16 has a real opportunity to go after some17 money. I know these aren't big bites18 often, but when I looked at my past life19 within PCDC, we used to live on the edges20 of what big departments didn't go after,21 whether it was the Cops Program by the22 federal government that we were able to23 get grants from or whether it was other24 national associations dealing with25 187 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 recreation and/or in this case Fairmount2 Park, that we really just need a3 full-time crew of writers, responders to4 RFPs. And if there was ever a time where5 that would be a worthwhile position, I6 think it is now, both because of the7 budget deficit and we can't afford to let8 even the small bites go by us at this9 point, but also in keeping us in the loop10 with trends nationally and then,11 therefore, locally that we need to keep12 our eyes on. And if we do that and if13 they met weekly, monthly just to go after14 these opportunities, I think at the end15 of the day, as Councilman Green said, we16 could measure that progress that, let's17 say, instead of a three percent cut18 annually that we used to have to19 experience when I was sitting on that20 side of the table, we might be talking21 about a three percent goal of new revenue22 through RFP gathering that we could go23 after. And if we set that as a goal,24 this year maybe we only got two percent,25 188 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 but in the upcoming years if we did that,2 we could use it for everything from3 program delivery to the end users, which4 are our young people and our citizens,5 but also upgrading of equipment, use of6 technology, things like that that are7 innovative things that are near and dear8 to Councilman Green's heart.9 So if we just had that as a10 goal for the Administration, but I think11 your department in particular could go12 after a lot of grant opportunities.13 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: I agree14 with you, and I do know in past years the15 Department of Recreation actually had a16 line item in their budget where there was17 a specific grant manager, and that person18 was seeking additional funding for the19 Department of Recreation. And I believe20 I could say once Commissioner21 DiBerardinis starts putting this merger22 together, I think we will all be excited23 about what the outcome will be.24
I think a25 189 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 lot of those RFPs wound up on his desk up2 at the state level. So we don't want to3 forget that process.4 Thank you, Madam Chair.5 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:6 You're welcome.7 The Chair recognizes Councilman8 Green.9
Thank you,10 Madam Chair.11 Finally, can you please provide12 to the Chair a cost to open every single13 pool, those that are being opened and14 those that are not being opened, what it15 costs and then including staff,16 everything.17 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: Yes, I18 can.19
Do you know20 the difference, total aggregate21 difference, between opening all the pools22 and opening the ones that are being23 proposed?24 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: I don't25 190 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 have that number available, but I do have2 that, so I can get that over to you today3 and make sure I get the Chair what you're4 asking me to get her. Because we did do5 a breakdown of what it would cost to open6 all 73 of our pools.7
Okay. Thank8 you.9 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: You're10 welcome.11
Do we12 have any other Councilmembers that have13 questions or comments of the Recreation14 Department?15 (No response.)16 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:17 Seeing no one, thank you very much.18 COMMISSIONER SLAWSON: Thank19 you, Madam President.20 Thank you, Council.21 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:22 You're welcome.23 We will now hear from Atwater24 Kent Museum.25 191 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 (Witness approached witness2 table.)3
Good4 afternoon. Welcome. Please identify5 yourself for the record and proceed with6 your testimony.7
Good afternoon,8 Council President Verna and members of9 the City Council. I am Viki Sand,10 Executive Director of the Atwater Kent11 Museum of Philadelphia, and I am here to12 present testimony in support of the13 Atwater Kent's budget of $248,630. This14 represents a decrease in Class 100 funds15 of $71,370 originally appropriated in16 Fiscal Year 2009 and represents the17 potential reduction of a second staff18 position, from five in Fiscal Year 200919 to three in 2010. Specifically, one of20 the municipal guards, who also functions21 as a custodial position, has already been22 eliminated and the Museum is now faced23 with making a decision related to a24 second position. 5 In these extraordinary economic6 times, everyone associated with the7 Atwater Kent applauds the commitment of8 the Mayor and the Council to support9 Philadelphia's cultural community and10 creative economy. We are particularly11 appreciative for the work of Gary Steuer,12 the City's Chief Cultural Officer. 16 Bill Greenlee is the Council's17 representative on the Museum Board and he18 has been of great assistance to us and we19 are deeply appreciative. 1 of the Council who have provided their2 support, and I would be remiss in not3 recognizing and acknowledging the4 functional support, administrative5 support provided by the Department of6 Recreation and Commissioner Susan7 Slawson's work. 15 In Fiscal Year 2009, this has16 been a year of preparation for the17 Museum, as it is addressing longstanding18 systemic issues to realize its full19 potential as a participant in the civic20 dialogue. Specifically, this year we21 have completed plans and created22 architectural and engineering drawings23 for the first major renovation of the24 Museum building since the 1940s. 1 moved 103,855 -- every one of them we've2 counted -- objects, paintings and books3 and pamphlets from five different4 locations around the City to one new5 off-site facility that meets professional6 standards, and we are in the process,7 believe it or not, of completing the8 first complete inventory of the9 collection. 1 School, Independence Charter School and2 Lamberton Robert High School in3 Overbrook. And we are delighted to be4 among the 30 historical institutions and5 archives in the City who are working to6 invigorate the teaching of history in7 Philadelphia. 11 We have always -- we are also12 really delighted to, the last two months13 we were open in December and January, to14 waive the fees for our highly regarded15 Quest for Freedom Program, the history of16 the anti-slavery movement in17 Philadelphia, where students, whatever18 their age, and adults are able to really19 see some of the treasures of the20 collection related to this subject. And21 in the two months that we waived the22 fees, we had over 22 groups scheduled23 with over 700 students. 3 This year, the City History4 Museum is 70 years old and it may be5 helpful to revisit some of the, just6 briefly, some of the transformation7 you've helped achieve. 7 million15 restoration of the Museum building. 5 million in private funds,17 funds from the City of Philadelphia that18 were longstanding capital, as well as the19 $250,000 Cultural Bond Act. 1 Department of Public Property and2 Commissioner Schlotterbeck to secure for3 the first time a ten-year lease for a4 single, professionally equipped storage5 facility that now includes a portion -- a6 direct support for a portion of that7 rent. I cannot tell you how important8 that is. 20 We have raised over $700,000 in21 private and grant funds for collection22 management initiatives. 1 Society of Pennsylvania Art and Artifact2 Collection and Philadelphia-related3 material from the Balch Institute for4 Ethnic Studies and the Insurance Company5 of North America, the great CIGNA6 business collection.
9 We've generated over $200,00010 in federal and private foundation support11 to build curriculum-based education12 programs, and we have developed and13 presented significant programmatic14 collaborations, including a federally15 supported program with the Free Library16 of Philadelphia, WXPN and the House of17 UMOJA. 2 Currently, the Museum, as I3 said, is closed, and in preparation, we4 expect to begin the renovation literally5 in May, and when we reopen in 2010, the6 Philadelphia History Museum will have7 what currently doesn't exist anywhere, an8 overview of Philadelphia history, what is9 the development of this great city. We10 will have on exhibit the iconic objects11 that everyone should see when they visit12 the City History Museum, and we're13 working with Commissioner Joan Decker to14 have on exhibit long-term loan the City15 Charter. 21 Central to this whole issue --22 there's not so much that's glamorous23 about this renovation. 7 When we reopen the new City8 History Museum, it will be very difficult9 if we must do it with the reduction of a10 second municipal guard. It is a very11 difficult situation, and I appreciate12 that everyone has what is important to13 them. But we are working with the Budget14 Department and with Gary Steuer to see if15 there is -- see what the opportunities16 are for this. 17 The Atwater Kent Museum18 trustees, staff, members and friends are19 deeply committed to the proposition that20 the history of Philadelphia presented as21 a diverse, international, urban22 laboratory supports and encourages civic23 participation and is a source of civic24 pride. 1 Philadelphians share, the Atwater Kent2 helps children and adults see themselves3 as part of the Philadelphia experience4 and within the broader themes of American5 history. 15 The Atwater Kent is remaining16 true to its mission. 4
Thank5 you so very much, and we all look forward6 to next year at this time when the7 renovations will all be completed.8 The Chair recognizes Councilman9 Greenlee.10
Thank11 you, Madam President.12 Very quickly. More of a13 statement than a question. As Council's14 representative on the Board, I can tell15 you we and the City as a whole have every16 reason to be excited about what the17 City's History Museum -- and that's what18 it is. Some people don't realize, but19 that's what is, the City's History20 Museum -- will look like next spring.21 And I think a lot of us have always felt22 that if it's not a hidden treasure, it's23 always been maybe a not-known-well-enough24 treasure, and I think we're getting there25 204 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 where it's a lot more well known and a2 lot more productive. And I can assure3 you, not too embarrass her while she's4 sitting at the table, the biggest reason5 for these drives is Viki Sand. She's got6 to be one of the most proactive, positive7 and enthusiastic people I've ever been8 associated with, and the Museum has made9 exceptional strides since she's been the10 Executive Director.11 So thank you, Viki, for all12 your help.13
Thank16 you.17 The Chair recognizes18 Councilwoman Brown.19
Thank you,20 Madam President.21 Let me say that I completely22 concur with Councilman Bill Greenlee23 regarding the enormous strides you've24 made under your leadership since 2002,25 205 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 and I want to commend you on the2 understanding that museums can play a3 part in the lives of children and the4 work you did prior to the renovation with5 regards to connecting with the Rec6 Department and the School District, and7 look forward to that growing even more8 after those renovations are done.9 The one question I have is, I10 have learned that the Office of11 Sustainability in many ways will be our12 point anchor for the distribution of the13 Recovery Act dollars, and since you are14 indeed doing renovations and knowing that15 for all of us who are doing that,16 institutions or citizens, we want to try17 to do it as green as we can. So have you18 had a chance to sit down with Mr. Mark19 Alan Hughes, either you or Mr. Steuer, to20 discuss how and if Atwater can be a21 candidate to receive and benefit from22 those dollars?23
Thank you. Thank24 you for your nice remarks as well.25 206 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 We have met -- we have sent a2 proposal to the Office of Sustainability,3 and as a matter of fact, I am right now4 going through our drawings -- we just5 received them with our project manager --6 to identify those areas where we can7 comply and potentially gain additional8 dollars. So, yes, we are doing it, and I9 thank you very much for alerting us to10 that.11
And are15 you having the presence of Mark Alan16 Hughes himself?17
All right,19 then. Thank you for your testimony.20 Thank you, Madam Chair.21
Thank22 you.23 Any other questions from24 members of the Committee?25 207 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 The Chair recognizes2 Councilwoman Blackwell.3
Thank4 you.5 I likewise want to compliment6 the Atwater Kent Museum. We do so love7 it. We all like to stand on our very8 addresses, our blocks. And certainly we9 would like to support them in all that10 they want to do. They always have a11 positive agenda, always sacrifice and12 always do what they can for their love of13 our city.14 Thank you.15
Thank18 you.19 The Chair recognizes Councilman20 Green.21
Thank you.22 I just have a couple of -- thank you for23 the work you do. I'm ashamed to say, I24 have not been there, but your testimony25 208 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 has inspired me to get there, so I will2 come shortly. I've passed the beautiful3 building.4 How much of your budget comes5 from sources other than the City of6 Philadelphia?7
About9 two-thirds? That's great. I think10 that's important for people to recognize,11 that we provide the last dollar, but12 there's a lot of private money helping13 you.14 How much of that is from -- do15 you charge a fee to come in?16
We do charge a fee.17 It's very modest, $5 for adults, $3 for18 children, but children under 12, 12 and19 under, are free. So families can come in20 for $10.21
So how much22 of your revenue is from the admission23 fee?24
Very modest. Our25 209 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 whole earned revenue at this point is2 about eight percent, and that's been one3 of the really serious difficulties, and4 one of the reasons for the renovation,5 frankly, is so that we can begin -- so6 that we can raise that to 14 percent in7 about two years and then hopefully more.8
You9 testified that you have four and a half10 of the 5.7 million needed for the11 renovation. How do you plan on bridging12 that gap?13
Not this16 year we don't, I'm afraid. I think to17 Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown's18 point, if you have your plans, if you19 have your permits, you're one of the few20 institutions in the City that is actually21 prepared to get federal stimulus money22 for the construction, especially if your23 heating and cooling systems have an24 energy efficiency component, et cetera.25 210 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1
You know that I was2 being respectful.3 We are actually looking at the4 sustainability, the federal5 sustainability, as a piece of this. We6 are also looking to raise the money7 privately. And I think we were candidly8 very excited. I mean, we really saw the9 state release of the RCAP money as10 central to -- it's basically 80 percent11 of the project. So we are now going to12 several different sources, public and13 private, to try to raise the balance.14
That's15 great. I would think because it's energy16 efficiency, that you would qualify for17 some federal dollars. So, I mean, please18 don't be -- push them, find -- do you19 know what the dates are for when20 applications for the kind of things you21 have to do are approved?22
It's my23 understanding that it's basically very24 tight at this point, like within the next25 211 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 several weeks.2
Don't miss a6 deadline. And I would encourage you to,7 if you can't get things together with the8 City, apply yourself.9
The other11 thing is, are you impacted by Plan B, the12 contingency plan, in terms of a loss of13 revenue from the City?14
Thank19 you.20 The Chair recognizes21 Councilwoman Brown.22
Madam23 Chair, I simply wanted to strongly urge24 our new member of Council, Councilman25 212 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 Bill Green, to put it on his agenda, "to2 do" list and make sure that he gets to3 visit the Atwater Kent Museum.4
Madam Chair,5 I'll go if Councilwoman Brown will bring6 me.7
Thank11 you.12 Any further questions?13 (No response.)14 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:15 Seeing none, thank you so much.16
We18 will now hear from the Art Museum.19 (Witnesses approached witness20 table.)21
Good afternoon.24 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:25 213 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 Identify yourself for the record and2 proceed with your testimony.3
My name is Gail4 Harrity. I am the Interim Chief5 Executive Officer of the Philadelphia6 Museum of Art, and I'm honored to be7 before the Council today. I am joined by8 a number of colleagues: Cheryl9 McClenney-Brooker, Director of External10 Affairs for the Museum; Bob Morrone,11 Director of Master Planning; Al Shaikoli,12 Director of Engineering, Facilities and13 Operations; Bill Valerio, Assistant14 Director for Administration; Bob Rambo,15 Chief Financial Officer; and Paul Pincus,16 Officer for Planning and Special17 Projects. 1 of our Museum Director, Anne2 d'Harnoncourt, who served as Director for3 26 years. 14 First, the success of Art15 Speaks, the Museum's new education16 program, which was launched in September17 of 2008. 1 fourth grader in Philadelphia's public2 schools, all 14,000 of them. It's a3 program funded through a National4 Leadership federal grant and through5 private corporate support. 13 We have extended it through the end of14 May, and I hope you have read that it has15 received rave reviews from local,16 national and international press,17 including a two-page spread in Time18 Magazine, an eight-minute CBS Sunday19 morning national TV program highlighting20 the exhibition, major features in the New21 York Times, Boston Globe, Washington22 Post, as well as the full array of local23 media from the Inquirer, the Daily News,24 the Tribune and Al Dia. 1 visitors from more than 40 states, from2 Maine to California, from Texas to3 Minnesota, and from more than 144 countries around the world, including5 France, Japan, Argentina and Israel, just6 to name a few. 20 Department of State asked the Museum to21 represent the United States in the Venice22 Biennale with an exhibition of the work23 of Bruce Nauman. 5 So special exhibitions and the6 Museum's own permanent collection can7 only -- a special exhibition such as8 these are only organized in Philadelphia9 because the Museum operates day in and10 day out a world-class institution with a11 world-class facility. 15 The Museum has depended on City16 operating support to pay for the17 fundamental operating costs of security18 and building maintenance since the doors19 of the main Museum building opened in20 1928, and at that time, the City21 committed to fund 100 percent of the22 security and maintenance costs on the23 annual basis. 25 million, and despite annual7 escalations in the Museum's cost of8 security and maintenance, the City9 support remained flat at that level for10 nine years, through 2004. 414 million. 19 I think it's helpful to give20 this sort of larger view of City support,21 because it's not just this year that we22 are coming before this Council. 1 have urged the Museum to diversify2 sources of revenue, and we did. 7 We also made strategic investments that8 delivered impressive returns through9 earned revenue initiatives, expanding our10 membership to an all-time high of over11 60,000 members, and we've developed12 retail programs and food service programs13 that contribute substantially to the14 bottom line. 8 As you know, the economic9 impact of the Museum is substantial,10 averaging approximately $225 million11 annually, with special exhibitions12 generating intense economic activity over13 a short two- to three-month period,14 putting heads in beds, mouths in15 restaurants and passengers in taxis. 1 museums around the country, the value of2 the Museum's endowment has dropped3 substantially. Institutions with the4 largest endowments, such as Harvard5 University or the Getty Museum, have been6 the hardest hit and the first to lay off7 staff and faculty. 15 The broad decline across all16 forms of revenue makes the Museum17 different from City departments that18 receive their entire operating support19 from the City of Philadelphia. It also20 makes the proposal to reduce the Museum's21 annual operating appropriation by22 700,000, a 24 percent cut relative to the23 original FY09 appropriation, much more24 difficult.
7 So as you may remember reading8 on the front page of the Inquirer in9 February, we have postponed exhibitions10 involving international loans. We have11 closed second-floor galleries on Friday12 evenings. 18 Relative to the staff size of19 peer institutions across the country, the20 Museum's staff has already been lean,21 efficient and productive. 1 As the challenges of the past2 years have been -- and we know that the3 Museum is not alone in facing the4 difficulties that result from the global5 downturn. The Museum does acknowledge6 that we must accept cuts in operating7 support for Fiscal '10, sharing the8 sacrifice being made across the City and9 in all City departments. 19 The silver lining for the20 Museum and for the arts and culture21 organizations of the City more broadly is22 that the Mayor's proposed operating cuts23 are on a scale that is commensurate with24 the cuts across all City departments. 1 take heart that Mayor Nutter and his2 Chief Cultural Officer, Gary Steuer,3 recognize that the arts are not a frill4 or luxury to be set aside for better5 years. 8 This spring and summer the9 Museum will complete our exterior10 renovation to the City's landmark11 building, which includes a re-pointing,12 cleaning and the repair of the exterior13 limestone facades of the City's building14 and the historic -- the renovation of the15 historic polychrome terra cotta16 ornamentation and bronze window grilles17 designed by Tiffany Studios, as well as18 the repair of the four-acre roof. This19 exterior upgrade of the Museum corrected20 urgently needed public safety matters and21 intervened to preserve the City's22 historic beauty and landmark of a great23 building. 2 As of mid-February, the Museum3 also completed its below-grade parking4 facility, and it too has been given an5 award by the federal Environmental6 Protection Agency. 1 of the Master Plan to proceed. The2 Keystone Project includes three3 critically important aspects of work:4 One, upgrades and strategic5 replacements of utility and energy6 systems, transforming the infrastructure7 of the 80-year-old iconic building into8 an energy-efficient facility, which9 will -- which serves, as you know,10 between 850,000 to a million visitors11 annually;12 Two, the construction of13 critically important secure loading docks14 on the south side of the Museum building15 that will not only provide a separate bay16 for art deliveries as well as a separate17 bay for all other deliveries, but it will18 also alleviate truck traffic, and some of19 those trucks are 80-foot-long tractor20 trailer trucks. 6 So these infrastructure7 projects of the Keystone Project are a8 critically important next step for the9 Museum and for one of the great cultural10 icons and destination definers of11 Philadelphia in that it will leverage12 private support in the next phases of the13 Museum's renovation plans. 19 So your support of the Keystone Project20 will strengthen an institution so that it21 can continue to serve generations of22 Philadelphians and our visitors from near23 and far. 7
It's great18 to see you guys.19 You just mentioned the Keystone20 Project, I believe you call it. How much21 did the Planning Commission recommend we22 put in the Capital Budget for the23 Keystone Project?24
The Planning25 230 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 Commission's Capital Program over the2 six-year period, including Fiscal '10,3 includes -- the Administration includes4 $11 million. The Planning Commission had5 originally recommended $22 million over6 the six-year period.7
And how much8 money from other sources have you raised9 for the Keystone Project?10
We have11 recognized that this is a substantial12 investment in a City-owned building that13 will require both federal and state14 support. We have successfully raised15 through state and a few foundations16 commitments of up to $70 million for what17 we anticipate will be a $100 million18 project.19
So you have20 $70 million in commitments from sources21 other than the City of Philadelphia.22 Does the 11 million appropriated in the23 Capital Program budget allow you to break24 ground?25 231 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1
I think the -- we2 are working very closely with the Budget3 Director and with the Planning4 Commission, as well as with the state and5 federal sources to get to a level that6 will allow us to break ground. We are7 encouraged that the scope of work does8 qualify for federal funding, for stimulus9 funding, and we're working to put all of10 those pieces together to take to our11 Board.12
Although the13 stimulus funding -- I mean, as I said in14 my office, I don't think you're likely to15 get any, because you're not going to16 spend the money quickly enough, because17 you have to spend it within 18 months, a18 certain amount of time, and these19 projects are, I think at this point,20 longer lead times than that.21
Well, actually,22 we have submitted information to the City23 that shows that approximately 50 percent24 of our project, or $48 million, is shovel25 232 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 ready by federal stimulus package2 standards and it does qualify. So the3 question is, does it qualify in several4 areas of energy conservation, roadway5 work and other areas that -- we are6 working now closely, as I said, with the7 City, with the State and with federal8 legislators to better understand how9 portions of the project could be funded10 through different aspects of federal11 funding.12
That's13 great. And if you were to get federal14 stimulus money, I think that will be15 terrific. It might allow you to break16 ground, but if you don't get it, are you17 able to proceed with the 11 million18 that's in the Capital Budget?19
Would you be21 able to proceed with the $22 million the22 Planning Commission suggested?23
I think the24 ultimate decision to break ground rests25 233 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 with the trustees of the institution, but2 certainly there is -- the trustees are3 monitoring the funding and looking4 closely at whether or not we are able to5 fund the full project. We wouldn't want6 to begin or break ground without a7 commitment of full funding.8 So I think, yes, if there was9 increased funding from any public source,10 city, state or federal, to match the11 total cost of the project, we would be12 able to break ground.13
What's the14 rationale for not including in a six-year15 capital plan the additional $11 million,16 which obviously is paid back with bonds17 over 30 years? So it doesn't really have18 a significant operating impact on the19 City, but leverages $70 million in20 private funds. What's the rationale for21 not adding the 11 million to the capital22 plan that would allow you to start $7023 million of work, make the Museum24 available for more tourists, increase the25 234 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 local economy, et cetera?2 (Bell rung.)3
Well, I think4 that -- I think the City has been5 extraordinarily supportive of the project6 and I am also aware that the Capital7 Budget is not nearly sufficient for a8 city the size of Philadelphia with aging9 infrastructure. So I feel that we are10 working in close partnership to allocate11 limited resources in a wise manner and we12 are working creatively together to find13 the -- to close the gap that would enable14 us to break ground.15
Is the $7016 million at any risk if it's five years17 before we appropriate the money needed to18 begin this project?19
Okay. Would22 you have any objection to the co-equal23 branch of government, City Council,24 amending the capital plan to add $1125 235 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 million for the Art Museum so that you2 can begin this construction?3
Thank11 you, Madam President.12 Good afternoon. First of all,13 as the member who lives the closest to14 the Art Museum, I certainly commend you15 on the parking facility and everything16 else you do at that beautiful building17 over there, and always have to mention18 the Perelman building there for a great19 improvement to the neighborhood there.20 And, by the way, I saw Cezanne and21 Beyond. Everything you do over there, it22 was a great program.23 I just have one question. You24 mention in the beginning of your25 236 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 testimony about the program Art Speaks2 and what you do for including public3 school children, which is very4 commendable. I have to add, though, as5 a, many, many years ago, a Catholic6 school graduate, are there any programs7 that are also open to non-public school8 students? Can you talk a little bit9 about that?10
Yes, I can talk a11 bit, and I also might ask my colleague,12 Cheryl McClenney-Brooker, to speak to13 that. But the Museum is recognized as14 having one of the best and most diverse15 museum education programs in the country.16 Marla Shoemaker, the Senior Curator of17 Education, is honored on a regular basis18 by the National Endowment for the19 Humanities and the National Endowment for20 the Arts for the breadth of programs for21 public and parochial schools in the City22 and beyond, and the range of programs,23 from after-school programs, which were24 mentioned earlier in today's testimony,25 237 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 to programs for people with sight -- with2 limited sight to programs in jails and3 other programs are extraordinary. We4 have a map in fact that I would love to5 share with the Council that shows the6 number of programs and the diversity of7 them in every councilmanic district.8 But, Cheryl, you may want to9 add to that on some of the10 collaborations.11 MS. McCLENNEY-BROOKER: Thank12 you, Councilman Greenlee. I think Gail13 has covered very well in answer to your14 question, but it's a good question,15 because we often are associated with only16 dealing with public schools in the City17 of Philadelphia, and we're proud of that,18 but we also are dealing with private,19 parochial and charter schools. And20 there's school visits and after-school21 art clubs, as Gail mentioned, studio art22 classes.23 The Education Department has a24 tremendous number of programs going on,25 238 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 and we don't want to take up this limited2 time this afternoon by telling you about3 all of them. We don't have a lot of4 time, but it is very good to remind you5 that that Education Department is6 extremely active, and as Gail said in her7 testimony, 90,000 students. And we do8 want to remind you that we also have9 partnerships with community groups like10 Taller Puertorriqueno, Art Sanctuary, the11 Southeast Community Art Center, and we12 are dealing with accessibility for a13 number of people. One in particular that14 I want to tell you about has to do with15 people who are homebound, who can't come16 physically to the Art Museum, and through17 a program up through a telephone art18 appreciation program, they actually learn19 about and hear about and participate in a20 conversation concerning art. So that's21 just --22
Great23 idea.24 MS. McCLENNEY-BROOKER: It is,25 239 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 and it's a very successful program.2
Okay.3 Thank you. Thank you. I think you4 answered that question. Thank you.5
Thank6 you.7 The Chair recognizes8 Councilwoman Brown.9
Thank you,10 Madam President.11 I'd like to offer an invitation12 to my colleague, Councilman Bill Green.13 I had the great fortune to14 attend an after-school arts program a few15 years ago, and commend you enormously for16 the breadth of work that you do in our17 schools, and in many ways it's important18 to know when we consider the fact that19 many of our public schools don't have20 arts and culture programming. So to the21 extent that arts and culture institutions22 can reach into those doors, that's an23 important thing.24 Let me also commend you on the25 240 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 improvement you've made and progress2 you've made in offering both women and3 people of color an opportunity to do4 business with the Museum, since we know5 those doors are open all the time. And I6 appreciate your recognition of what is7 indeed a shared sacrifice for the City as8 we seek to get our arms around this9 financial crisis. When I hear you say10 that your reductions are cut to the bone11 with 30 positions eliminated, a cut in12 hours and a reduced salary, that is13 certainly all that we must consider. I14 would offer, however, my statement as15 follows: We also know that every $116 spent by the Museum yields $4 in economic17 activity. So you really do put heads in18 beds when it comes to filling up hotel19 rooms, restaurants, taxis, parking, et20 cetera.21 So I'll close simply by saying22 after losing so much this past year, we23 still do need what you bring to the City,24 because you give us a return on the25 241 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 investment. So I want to thank both you,2 your staff, Cheryl McClenney-Brooker and3 Bill Valerio, for being the face of the4 Museum at many of the events we see5 around the City of Philadelphia, and I am6 hereby urging my colleagues and the7 Administration to restore funding to the8 previous levels as soon as we come out of9 this financial crisis. And let me10 underscore that. As soon as we come out11 of this financial crisis. Again, because12 for every $1 that's spent, we see a $413 yield.14 The Art Museum is known because15 it is a cultural gem and a destination16 that makes us all very, very proud, and I17 am confident and hopeful that our Mayor18 and our czar for the arts in our city,19 our Chief Cultural Officer, Gary Steuer,20 will certainly understand this21 importance.22 Thank you all for your23 testimony and your important work.24 Thank you, Madam Chair.25 242 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:2 You're welcome.3
Is8 Councilman Jones there? I can't see.9 No.10 The Chair recognizes11 Councilwoman Blackwell.12
Thank13 you, Madam President.14 The Art Museum is another15 example of what we talk about for mural16 arts and other programs that do such a17 great job in raising their own money in18 trying to support themselves and yet19 request City support. It is real20 important. I heard what our colleague21 asked about them being able to get this22 program started without the money they23 need, and certainly it is well needed,24 well deserved. We appreciate their25 243 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 contribution to our city, and we2 certainly hope that we can help them, and3 we support that.4 Thank you very much.5 Thank you.6
Thank9 you.10 The Chair recognizes Councilman11 Green.12
Thank you,13 Madam Chair.14 If 54 percent of the Keystone15 Project qualifies for federal stimulus16 money, that means you can spend it within17 a certain amount of time. Do you know18 what amount of time that is?19
Yeah. I think20 if -- I believe it's roughly 50 percent,21 not 54, and I might ask --22 (Witness approached witness23 table.)24
Bob Rambo, the CFO25 244 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 for the Philadelphia Museum of Art.2 We have looked at our project3 and looked at early releases of certain4 components of the project so that we can5 start construction much earlier than we6 would had the stimulus package not been7 available to us so that we --8
Yeah. That's11 right. Well, it's available. We just12 haven't qualified yet, but we're hopeful13 that we will. And we feel confident that14 we can spend at least 50 percent within15 the time period, within the next --16 starting as early as late August and we17 can spend that through the next 1818 months.19
Eighteen20 months, 50 percent. So $35 million in 1821 months. How many jobs would that create?22
Eight25 245 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 hundred and fifty jobs. Do you know what2 those jobs would pay the City of3 Philadelphia in wage tax and do you know4 what the business privilege tax that5 would be paid by the contractors to the6 City of Philadelphia during that two-year7 period would be?8
I don't have that9 information, but certainly we could make10 some calculation.11
If you would12 please do so, because I think what we're13 going to find is that the interest14 expense on an additional million dollars15 is less than the tax revenue to the City16 as a result of going forward with this17 project in the short term, and we need to18 get Philadelphians to work. And so I19 know you're making the case with the20 federal government, but I would urge you21 to come back to City Council and make the22 case in time for us to amend the capital23 plan if the numbers bear out as we24 suspect.25 246 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1
And also3 you're the CFO. Do you happen to know if4 the 70 million is at risk if we wait five5 years?6
We would have to7 get back and examine all of the grant8 agreements. I think I'm pretty confident9 there is time limits on certain of them.10 The question is could we go back and have11 those extended. So I can't answer that12 at this point. We'd have to see.13
What are the14 endowments worth of people who offered15 you the money today versus three years16 ago, would be the answer to that17 question.18 Thank you.19
Thank21 you.22 Is Councilman Rizzo in the23 room?24 (No response.)25 247 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1
Gail,2 can you tell us how many automobiles can3 be accommodated in the new parking4 facility?5
There are spaces6 for 440 cars, which is a substantial7 increase to the number of parking spaces8 around the terrace of the Museum.9 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:10 That's wonderful. Again, we really11 commend you and everybody involved in12 doing such a fabulous job.13
Sorry, Madam22 President.23 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:24 That's okay.25 248 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1
Sorry about2 the delay. Again, I just want to chime3 in with everybody else that you guys do a4 great job there. And it's interesting,5 when I travel and meet people, they don't6 tell me about Pat's Steaks or Geno's.7 They tell me about the great time they8 had in visiting the Museum. So I want9 you to know that.10 Just an observation, because I11 was kind of worried myself a little bit12 about it, but every time I come around13 the circle, the line, no matter if it's14 10 o'clock at night or 11 o'clock at15 night, at the Rocky statue, I'm so happy16 that you guys worked that out and I think17 it's in an appropriate place, but I think18 it's really been a lot of fun for a lot19 of people, to see the flashes going off20 at 10 o'clock at night and there's 2021 people lined up to take pictures. So22 thanks for being so flexible on that one.23 I think it's really a neat asset to the24 Museum.25 249 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1
And we agree. We2 think it's terrific, and we may launch an3 advertising campaign that has somebody at4 the top of the stairs with arms lifted5 saying, I've just seen say Cezanne.6
I know you7 guys aren't in this kind of business, but8 I'd like to get the concession to have a9 photographer there. You're not old10 enough to remember, but I do, when the11 pony would come through the neighborhood12 and you'd take a picture. You guys ought13 to set up a business there just people14 without cameras to take pictures. You'd15 make a zillion dollars.16
It is17 spectacular. We think it's terrific. It18 was a win-win.19
Again,20 thanks, everybody, for the great work you21 do there.22
You24 can't get away that easily.25 250 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 The Chair recognizes Councilman2 Jones.3
Thank you4 very much.5 I just wanted to on the record6 say that I am truly pleased with the Art7 Museum's effort to expand art and art8 appreciation to public schools,9 particularly in my district and around10 the City of Philadelphia. In a debate11 about budgets and what our priorities12 should be, there is no debate that art13 enriches the lives of our young people by14 the experience of it. It should not be15 just a wealthy person's experience, but16 to the common person and to individuals17 who can be transformed by the art. I18 think it is an excellent program. You19 reach out. You assist teachers in20 helping them both in person by visits to21 the Art Museum, but teleconference22 equipment and using a virtual classroom,23 if you would, to enhance the experience24 for students. I think it's the best25 251 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 cheap date in the City of Philadelphia to2 go and experience Cezanne and some of the3 classic artists, and I just appreciate4 the enrichment that the Museum provides5 for our city, and I wanted to get on the6 record saying that.7 One of the first tours we took8 in our early time of the freshmen was of9 the Art Museum, and we have been10 transformed because of it. One of the11 things that I wanted to make sure happens12 is that some of the projects that you're13 working on, ambitious projects, to14 improve the capital infrastructure of the15 actual Museum are considered by the City16 of Philadelphia as turnkey, shovel-ready17 projects that should have been and can18 still be considered under the stimulus19 package, and I wanted to put that on the20 record as well and get your feedback on21 that.22
Terrific. Well,23 I very much appreciate your comments.24 You are very articulate in expressing25 252 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 really the Museum's mission to provide2 art to all people of all ages from all3 walks of life, because it is a4 transformative experience. And with5 regard to maintaining the Museum, not6 only the fine collections within it, but7 the infrastructure that holds it and8 cares for it, we appreciate your support,9 because these projects are vital to the10 success of the Museum going forward and11 to our ability to continue to provide12 great programs for generations to come.13
In a14 post-apocalyptic economy, people are15 inventing new types of vacations called16 staycations where you actually stay in17 the region and experience whatever18 limited recreation you can based on what19 your money can buy, and a staycation20 should always include the option of going21 to the Art Museum and I just think it's22 an excellent venue by which people can23 experience locally.24
Well, in25 253 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 anticipation of more staycations in the2 current economy, we are adjusting our3 marketing program, because so many of our4 current exhibitions, both international5 loan exhibitions and permanent collection6 exhibitions, are focused on works from7 France. So, for example, the Cezanne and8 Beyond, but also a just-opened exhibition9 of works from our permanent collection of10 costume and textiles called Shopping in11 Paris, or another painting exhibition of12 works by the artist Henri Matisse. And13 so we are encouraging people to go to14 France, visit France in Philadelphia and15 see the great collections.16
I'm more a17 Monet man myself, but I'll consider that18 as an option.19 Thank you, Madam President.20
Thank23 you.24 Any further questions?25 254 4/21/09 - WHOLE - BILL 090212, etc.1 (No response.)2 COUNCIL PRESIDENT VERNA:3 Seeing none, thank you very much.4
This7 will conclude our public hearings for8 today. The hearings will be continued9 until tomorrow, Wednesday, April the 22nd10 at 10:00 a.m.11 Thank you.12 (Committee of the Whole13 recessed at 2:55 p.m.)14 - - -15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 255 1 CERTIFICATE2 I HEREBY CERTIFY that the3 proceedings, evidence and objections are4 contained fully and accurately in the5 stenographic notes taken by me upon the6 foregoing matter on April 21, 2009, and that7 this is a true and correct transcript of same.8 9 10 11 12 13 ______________________________14 MICHELE L. MURPHY15 RPR-Notary Public16 17 18 (The foregoing certification of this19 transcript does not apply to any reproduction20 of the same by any means, unless under the21 direct control and/or supervision of the22 certifying reporter.)23 24 25