The ayes have it, the motion carries, and we will consider the Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Henon for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. In addition to the resolutions and bills being considered on the Consent Agendas, the following resolutions and bills are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Bill Nos. 160644, 160659, 160517-A, 160138-A, 160176, 160173, 160174, 160175, 160552, 160170, 160171, 160172, 160471, 150511, and Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 2ND READING 160311. All other bills and resolutions are being held. I think there was a typo. I want to go back and say that 160511 as opposed to 150511.
Mr. President, point of information. The last bill that I wanted to read for clarification is 160311 for the record.
Thank you, Councilman. The record shall reflect that. 331, okay.
Correct. Thank you. Thank you, Councilman. The record shall reflect that. Our next order of business is the public comment session. I would ask that you bear with me as we work this out, because understandably we have a Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 significant number of individuals on the list. Hopefully we'll be able to work this out. I'm sure that there will be some people who will not be happy with the conclusion, but the simple reality is that I'm going to read the rules, because I knew that this would come up. The Council rules with respect to public comment: Each resident or taxpayer who wishes to provide public comment shall be limited to three minutes, which we always do, in such time and period that the President shall announce. The President may place additional reasonable limitations. And I want you to hear that word, reasonable limitations on public comment to permit Council to conduct its meetings and to maintain order, including limiting repetitious comments. So I fully anticipate when we look at this there will be a significant amount of limited repetitious comments. With all due respect, we have heard a lot Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 about at least two of these bills, so we will try to work out and get as many as possible. So give us a couple of seconds so we can try to come to some conclusion on this. (Brief pause.)
What we're going to do -- can I have your attention, please. What we're going to do, we're going to proceed with the non-beverage/soda/whatever we're calling it today. It keeps changing, very evolving situation. We're going to proceed with those comments that don't relate to that, that relate to other matters, and then we're trying to work out the schedule on who is going to testify on those bills or resolutions. So, Mr. Decker, we can start out with this list. We're going to start on the non-beverage/soda tax-related comments.
The following individuals can approach the podium, Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 commenting on 160300, 160302-A, and 160518-A: Ms. Shikomba, followed by Richard Gliniak, followed by Tiffany Green, followed by Theresa McCormick, followed by Maria Ortiz.
So let me state in terms of the -- excuse me, folks. Can I have your attention, please. In terms of the public comment session, when your names are called, you obviously go to the podium in the middle of the Council Chambers. There's a device. When the light turns green, it will be your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, you will have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks. When the light turns red, we'd ask that you please adhere to the guidelines and conclude your remarks. You will be given three minutes each. Thank you. Mr. Decker, did you call all five of the names?
Okay. Council President, President Darrell Clarke, and other members of Council, I come before you today to speak on four bills really that are considered for passage. They deal with and will allow residential development on Washington Avenue. These bills are 160300, 160302 and 160518. I've also added Bill No. 160176. We're sure that we are being discriminated against because we are poor and handicapped, low and moderate income living in this residential area, which is north of Washington Avenue. I represent NOWAC, North of Washington Avenue, which is a Registered Community Organization. We share the same values as SOSNA. Neither NOWAC nor any of the other organizations was informed about the passing of these zoning bills, nor were we provided with any information until Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 these deals were already made. These projects are too big for a few people who live within 200 feet to be the sole deciders on what is to be built. These projects will affect our entire area, and we are opposing right now to having CMX-3 and IRMX introduced without full community impact and full community information. I don't know if you know anything about the (unintelligible) according to Emile Zola, who published a letter in 1898 accusing the French government of impropriety, a letter dated J'accuse, which means in English I accuse. It is on behalf of the NOWAC community and I that I make these accusations. We accuse the Administration, Councilman Johnson, and City Council of continuing what previous Administrations have done and, that is, to show an acute indifference to the poor, handicapped, low- and moderate-income people, residents living Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 in the City and failing to provide us with adequate housing. We accuse you of continuing to cast us, low- and moderate-income people, aside to wealthy interests. We accuse you of continuing to exclude us from the negotiating process when it comes to developing housing in the City. We accuse you of continuing to allow exclusion of black and brown people and people of color from jobs by not enforcing City legislation on the building trades to enable them to secure employment. We accuse you of continuing to allow development to ignore the poor and marginalized income people in this City. We accuse you of using the poor, poverty stricken, disadvantaged children living in poverty neighborhoods as bait to obtain approval of a proposed sugar tax to fix the City's budget debt. The sugar tax was proposed and promoted as providing pre-K instruction for the 17,000 kids living in Philadelphia. What we want? We want to be Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 treated with respect. We want inclusion, not exclusion. We want equal treatment and end to economic discrimination and (unintelligible). We want to be treated humanely and with dignity. We want our voices heard and not suppressed or ignored. We want substantial low- and moderate-income and handicap housing be included in any project and development coming in this City. We want a commitment that these projects will include a percentage of low and moderate income. We want an increase in the employment of people of color, of men and women on these projects and in enforcing existing laws and not just so-called best efforts. We want development without displacement. We want money generated from the sugar tax to be used solely for the funding of pre-K, as it was stated, and we want legislation introduced that will provide for the public audit and the full Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 disclosure of how this money is being spent. That is what we want and that's what we're asking for. We, therefore, respectfully request that Bill 160300, 160302-A, 160518 be placed on hold and that we favor passage of the sugar tax bill with the provisions noted. Thank you.
Tiffany Green, commenting on 160300, 160302-A, and 160518-A. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning -- or good afternoon. In order for a city to be a leader or a global leader, it's how you treat your poor, and right now these bills that have been passed, we have a real concern because the Bill 160302 will allow developers to build condominiums on Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Washington Avenue and it takes away the RCO process, the community process, and the community vote. My concern is, we have Councilpeople who say they're champions for the children and for the poor. So, therefore, why is there not an opposition vote on the floor right now? You can't say you're a champion for poor and the children and yet you allow that this particular bill that will take away the right to have a say in your community and build condominiums that will push out 500 to 1,000 families in South Philadelphia. At this point, if our Councilman want to continue to cater to the rich and the affluent, then let him do that, but we have 16 other Councilpeople who can vote opposed to this. We cannot allow poor people to continue to be mistreated like this. I have a real serious problem with the fact that you created the RCO process and made it a law, but now you're Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 going to take it away from us and allow them to be able to build. We can't even discuss design, parking, not even the time that they open or close. How could you sit here and take that away from us? I am standing here and I am livid at this particular point, but I say this, because you cannot continue to take money out the poor. I come from a family who taught me how to be confident and the ability to say no, and if we have someone who is not going to represent us at this particular point, then it's up to us to take it. This day you sat here and passed this bill and this bill is hurtful, but you know what, in the words of Gone with the Wind, tomorrow is another day. At this particular point, I am so sick and tired of hearing "all in favor say aye." It cringes my stomach not to see individuality on this floor. But I tell you what, from here on, all of Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 you -- this vote today, it says to me all in favor to take money out of the poor people pockets with the sugar tax. All in favor to remove our rights of the poor to have a say in our community. You're all in favor to say that it's okay for Philadelphia to have the highest poverty rate in the country. It's okay for -you all in favor to say that Philadelphia will be the number one broke, busted, and disgusted city in America. I refuse to let you sit here and disrespect the poor, but I know one thing. No weapon formed against us shall prosper. (Applause.)
Theresa McCormick. (No response.) Stated Meeting June 16, 2016
Good morning, everyone. My name is Maria Ortiz. I live in the South Philadelphia area. I am terribly upset on what's going on in our area with these bills, 160300, 160302, 160518. It is disgusting how we are being treated that's human and also with the soda tax and also with all the taxes in the area that they want to increase. We talk about there's no money in the City, but we got an $18 million house on Rittenhouse Square that has not paid taxes. Why don't we get taxes from those who been in the community that don't pay taxes and get taxes from them? (Applause.)
Can still get raises in their taxes. People and high officials get raises, but people of the Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 working class, no income, that's working hard to put food on our table, to serve you in your home as butlers, housekeeper or whatever don't get raises or vacations and being mistreated. This is not justice in the United States. I'm also upset because we call ourself people that deserve better, but this is a new form of slavery for everyone of all colors. As far as the other taxes in our area, we need to sit down and have talk with people of the community, not people in high levels. You need to come out and spend a day or give one of your pay a month once a year to see what's going on and live on the salary we deserve -- or live on the salary that we do not have. Also, the schools, Dr. Hite came from another district. If he is so great, why did he come from another district and Philadelphia hired him? All's I see our schools going down. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 We're not recouping. We're not getting anything. And as far as that, I think as far as people getting raises, they should not get no raises if they don't do they job, and that goes for all courses of action. Thank you and have a nice day. (Applause.)
Robert Burdge, commenting on 160175. (Witness approached podium.)
Yes. My name is Robert Burdge. Thank you, Council. Thank you for letting me -- we have a serious problem here with this wage tax going up. I know we're going to lose a lot of businesses if we don't be careful with this. I've seen it in other cities, and we're losing businesses. This morning I went by two Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 empty stores on Market Street, because they just closed down, because they can't afford the taxes or can't afford the rents and the taxes. We need to be careful. I know it's a point in that we have these taxes, but please -- a lot of the employees are leaving town. Also it's not fair to, like the people say, it's not fair to the employees that have to pay these taxes also. It's very hard for people to pay these taxes. And I know for myself, I'm trying to get a new job here in the City, and a lot of the people -- a lot of the employees are going outside the City and bringing in employees, and that's not good for the people that live here in Philadelphia, like myself. We need to be very careful with that wage tax and net profit, because the small business -- it's not just the large businesses. It's the small businesses that we have to look at, because the small businesses, their profit, Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 everything is going up, the cost of living, the cost of operating, the cost of employment, hiring people, and also the cost of just products, the bringing in certain things. I know a friend of mine has a restaurant over on 3rd and Market. It closed down last year, the pizzeria right on the corner, because it couldn't afford the rent and the employment. So we need to be careful with that.
Thank you for your testimony, sir. (Witness approached podium.)
Good afternoon, Councilmembers. My name is Majeedah Rashid. I'm the Chief Operating Officer of the Nicetown CDC, and I want to thank you for allowing me to give my testimony Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 this morning on Bill 160115. The Nicetown CDC has been working diligently in the community since we were founded in 1999, and we fulfill our mission with a holistic and inclusive approach that prioritizes community organizing through reeducation and training, neighborhood planning, public health and safety, affordable housing development, commercial corridor revitalization, land management, and arts and culture. The Nicetown CDC staff works with local stakeholders to investigate nuisance establishments. In our service area for our Neighborhood Advisory Committee program, we serve six neighborhoods that have been faced with the challenges of these nuisance establishments. These establishments are often blighted and responsible for attracting loiterers, illicit behavior, open-air drug sales, and pose serious safety and health issues in our Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 neighborhood. We receive numerous reports about nuisance establishments from community residents and businesses, our NAC office as well as local RCOs, and these reports have increased significantly over the past few years. These reports range from operating hours violations to seniors being afraid to go in where crowds regularly gather to gamble, drink beer, alcohol, and smoke marijuana. We do know that our Councilwoman Cindy Bass and her staff have always paid attention and worked diligently to address the problems related to these nuisance establishments in her district. Case in point, a couple months ago one of my staff called me to report a lot of police presence in front of Councilwoman Bass's district office. I happened to be driving in the area and recognized some of her staff and police officers from the 35th and 39th Police Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 District, and I also saw our L&I Commissioner Perri, so I was really interested then, really kind of nosey. I got out of my car and walked over to ask them what was going on, and they said they were about to conduct random raids or assessments of reported nuisance establishments. They asked me did I want to go with them, and I said yes. We went to three different sites. One was a stop and go on Broad and Wingohocking, one was a scrap yard in Germantown, and one was a so-called auto repair shop. All three had such deplorable conditions, and the L&I Commissioner himself said he thought he had seen it all before, but was astonished to find what he did at these sites. Unfortunately, these conditions do not only exist in the 8th Council District but throughout the City, and this is why I'm here today, to encourage you to support the approval of Bill No. 160115. It's time for the City to put Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 some teeth in the laws that exist and include the language of this bill, which will hold nuisance business owners and managers accountable. This bill will have immediate impact on improving the quality of life, health, and safety in our shared constituencies. Thank you again for giving me this opportunity to comment. (Applause.)
Joe Danihel, commenting on 160481-A, 160620, 160623, 160625, 160619, 160621, 160624, 160627, and 160631. (Witness approached podium.)
This is a representative form of government. You and Council are representatives of the people's will and, if asked, must produce evidence to back up the way you vote. My property at 1038 West Wyoming was sequestered for 18 years under a bait and switch that was allowed -- that was to allow a shopping Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 mall in lieu of relocation. In 2012, the Sheriff, the RDA, and others in this government changed the deed and leveled my home without payment that is constitutionally required. When Council was notified of violations to federal law 42 USC 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986 and others, Council is fiducially required to stop funding and using the RDA, Sheriff and courts, DA's Office and others until this serious breach of the Constitution is corrected. There has been no movement from the Council to correct illegal and without due process property deed transfers. Council continues its relationship with the RDA, Sheriff, courts and others involved. Audit the RDA, Sheriff, courts, and the DA's Office now. You as representatives of the people are required by law to follow the will of the people. I ask the people in this room, Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 have you authorized your representative to steal my home and others, 1038 West Wyoming Avenue, and pay a contractor up to $100 million to build a commercial property on top of what used to be my home? Hearing nobody saying that they've authorized you to act, Council now has the people's authority to act. De-fund, investigate now these agencies. The City just might find the missing millions that can fund the schools.
A.T. McNeil, Sr., commenting on 160644. (Witness approached podium.)
Good afternoon. MR. McNEIL: I thank City Council for setting up these meetings and I thank the people for coming today to hear about the resolution, Resolution 160644, a resolution to stop Donald Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Trump. I pray that this bill -- or resolution will be passed, because anyone present that have watched television and all the other press, TV ads on Donald Trump know that something must be done. David stopped Goliath with a rock when the whole people of Israel was afraid. As we do the Stop Trump Now Campaign, we see that 99 percent of the people that we talk with are afraid. So you cannot be a City Council representative unless you show intelligence. You cannot be a representative of the people whether it's religious, for in the Constitution of Pennsylvania it states that we, the people of the Commonwealth, grateful to almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty. I come today under exercising of my religious liberty to ask you without sale, denial or delay, as it states in Article 1, Section 11 of the Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Declaration of Rights. It says man's remedy: Every man for an injury done him in his land, goods, person or reputation shall have remedy, compensation for injury, without sale, denial or delay. You, the representatives of the people of the great City of Philadelphia, when you pass this resolution, you are saying to Donald Trump when you come to Philadelphia, be on your best behavior, because if you say anything to insinuate a riot or to injure anyone, we have an orange jumpsuit for you and we have plenty of space on State Road. Stop Trump now. Stop Trump now. We know about the great song of the year.
Sir? MR. McNEIL: -- speaking of the year? Yes. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016
Your opinion matters. However, we have a clock to honor, so we ask that you finish. MR. McNEIL: I ask you to pass this without sale, denial or delay. Thank you.
Wayne Rahman, commenting on 160644. (Witness approached podium.)
Good afternoon. I just got a brief comment to say to my friends here in City Council. I haven't been here in a while and I kind of miss coming down here, but I do want to say that the tax that the Administration is talking about, I'm so sad that a lot of my friends in South Philly probably will not agree with me, but, hey, that's the way it is. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 This tax is very important. Number one, it's for the children. It's for the children. It's for the children. Number two, they're our children here in Philadelphia. And, number three, the teachers. Often when I go to bed in the evening, at night, I try to catch as much news as I can. One forgotten hero, unsung hero out there is the school teachers. (Applause.)
I don't work for the school teachers. I don't work for the union. But the school teachers are the last people I hear when I go to sleep. We don't have enough supplies. That really bothers me. That bothers me greatly. I know I'm an ex-Marine and Vietnam and all that, but that really bothers me, because I remember when I was a little kid at Kelley Junior High School and Vaux, we had enough material for the Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 teachers to go into the closet and bring the stuff out for us to work with. When I walk or drive through different areas of Philadelphia -- I'm talking about I love all of Philly. I was raised in North and South, but I love all Philly. I watch the teachers struggling to their buildings. Some neighborhoods are not that great, but we're going to make them great. Anyway, struggling to their classrooms, loaded down with materials that they have to reach into they pocket and pay for the materials. That's a sad situation for me, and it should be a sad situation for us. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
I'm going to ask Michael to tee up the next individual so that we can utilize our time more efficiently.
Followed by Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Ne'Chelle Kennedy. (Witness approached podium.)
Good afternoon, everyone. My name is Beverly Chandran, born, raised, and educated here in Philadelphia. I am a product of the Philadelphia public school system, first graduating class of Martin Luther King High School in West Oak Lane and a graduate of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. I'm a realtor eight years, four years in Philadelphia and four years in the Washington, DC area. And for two years I have been a volunteer member of the GPAR Government Affairs Committee. Real estate is my third career, and I chose it because it allows me to educate people of all economic backgrounds on how to make sound choices as to where to purchase real estate for their primary residence but also to utilize real estate as a tool to create wealth. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 No doubt there's a need to fix and repair homes, but to increase the cost of doing a real estate transaction is making the proposition of owning a home for low- and middle-income residents, a great majority of the City's population, unaffordable. It is wonderful to see the real estate market booming in Philadelphia, and it is quite sad to see the cost of doing a transaction being the reason so many hard-working Philadelphians born and raised here cannot afford to purchase a home because of the fees associated with closing costs, specifically the real estate transfer fee. The issue associated with not being able to purchase a home is not because of the buyer's credit rating nor is it the issue because of a buyer not being able to get a mortgage with a low interest rate. The issue has become the fees associated with doing the transactions. The fees are already Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 keeping a lot of low to middle-class people from purchasing a home. I realize that many people are upset with the real estate boom in Philly, angry about the price of real estate as well as gentrification as a result of real estate, two very valid concerns, but let's not forget that to purchase even a 150,000 to 200,000 home will cost anywhere from $13,000 to $17,000 with the FHA mortgage and significantly higher for a conditional mortgage. A few points: $150,000 to $200,000 home is almost considered low-income housing given how much the price of the real estate has risen in Philly in the last five years.
Good afternoon, Ms. Chandran. Regrettably, we do have to honor the clock, and so we need you to finalize your remarks, as the bell has rung.
And seller Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 assist is a thing of the past. In closing, I hope I have encouraged members of the City Council to do more diligence and find another revenue source for the housing repair and preservation program instead of increasing the real estate tax. Thank you for listening.
Ne'Chelle Kennedy, commenting on 160471. (Witness approached podium.)
Thank you, Mr. Council President and the members of Council. My name is Ne'Chelle Kennedy. I'm also a realtor with Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors, and I respectfully urge you to vote against Bill No. 160471. I wholeheartedly support the effort to address secure, safe, healthy, and affordable homes for our city's residents. However, increasing taxes for property owners while incurring additional bond debt is something the Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 City cannot afford. Funding should come from collecting delinquent taxes, assessing properties appropriately, and reducing government inefficiencies. An increase to the realty transfer tax makes housing less affordable for our clients, who live or move into each and every section of Philadelphia. We walk through each step of the home buying and selling process with our clients. It's an emotional and a stressful journey on both sides of the process. We work with first-time homebuyers as they take one of life's biggest and scariest steps. We help the senior citizen as they transition to a new phase in life, and we provide assistance to clients when heart-breaking life challenges do occur. Our clients are the residents of Philadelphia, and we are advocating on their behalf. The tax increase will have the greatest impact on our senior, low-income, and millennial clients. It Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 hurts fixed-income senior citizens who have spent a lifetime building equity into their home by making them surrender an additional portion of their equity to taxes when they downsize to a smaller home or a senior living arrangement. To a much greater extent, this tax increase will be the burden of the low-income and millennial first-time homebuyers. Most first-time homebuyers struggle to qualify for mortgages and save for the down payments, and they have to pay premiums because the lack of credit and are often required to purchase mortgage insurance. Up-front costs are the biggest obstacles to homeownership for first-time and low-income buyers. For every 1 percent increase needed for a down payment, home affordability decreases by up to 70 percent for potential homebuyers. The amount of these fees and taxes involved in closing cost transactions only compound the would-be homebuyers' financial stressors. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 I just urge that you guys vote against this because 1 percent to you is an additional $800, $900, $1,000 for somebody who is already trying to only come up with $7,000 to purchase a home. We're making them stay a renter for the rest of their lives, and it's not fair. It's not fair to any of them. You guys can find a different way.
We do have a clock to honor as well. I need you to wrap it up.
Okay. You guys are all intelligent. I'm pretty sure that you can find a different means of coming up with this money. I personally know of investors who owe over $200,000 in real estate taxes. You guys sit there and tell them, Oh, they can't have a building permit. What do they do? They Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 go get one of their friends to get a building permit. Oh, you say they can't buy from the Sheriff Sales. What do they do? They find somebody to buy from the Sheriff Sales for them. There has to be another -
Ms. Kennedy, thank you for your important opinion. (Applause.)
Madam Chair, if I may, I just want to reemphasize the consideration of time as we give public comment today, because the list is quite long and we want to make sure that all citizens get their fair chance and opportunity to speak.
Well taken, Majority Leader. Proceed, sir. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016
Thank you very much. My name is Walter Spencer. I live in the Rittenhouse Square community. I'm here today to testify on behalf of Bill 160138, which requires a tax compliant certificate to receive a building permit. I can tell you that when I was living in Massachusetts in the early 1980s and the state had serious financial problems, they implemented a similar rule or similar statute actually that required anyone gaining benefit from the state to either come current on their taxes or be in a payment plan. In six months after that law took effect, the state received $100 million in delinquent payments that were owed, and there were additional delinquent payments made under the payment plans. So given the needs of both the school system and the Department of Human Services, I recommend passage of this bill. Thank you. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 (Applause.)
Hannah Sassaman, commenting on 160659. (Witness approached podium.)
Hello. My name is Hannah Sassaman. I'm speaking on my own behalf and on behalf of my rising public school kindergartner, and I'm speaking in support of a true performance audit of the Philadelphia Parking Authority. I was personally shocked to learn that the PPA is required to be paying resources to our public schools and hasn't been doing so. The PPA is a $240 million agency whose contributions to schools have plummeted from 14 million in 2012 to a protected 8 million in 2017. This is happening while I know that all of us are paying more in fees and taxes to the PPA as drivers and as consumers. And so if revenues have risen, why have resources to the School District of Philadelphia plummeted so much? Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 My daughter's fellow school parents at the school she will be attending in the fall raise over $100,000 each year personally to fund art, music, and other resources for our kids. And so if the PPA is considering legalizing Uber and Lyft in the City in an effort to get more money into their pockets, we absolutely need a true performance audit of the PPA. That's just basic good governance. Council expects this of every other agency, and we're not sure why our kids should get any less. So I'm saying please audit the PPA. And if the PPA also is going to be regulating Uber and Lyft in Philadelphia, please ensure that drivers of those cars are protected with all the basic resources they need and that all riders, including riders with disabilities, can use those cars. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Nick Panarella, Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 commenting on 160658. (Witness approached podium.)
Thank you. I will be brief. I think many of you know me. I happen to be a national officer of something known as the Special Forces Association, which is an organization which is essentially a VFW, but it's reserved for people who are Green Berets. So for us, how we treat third-world nationals who fought for us, generally what we're saying is they fought for Green Berets, because it was our responsibility to train, organize, equip, and lead them. Mountain Yards, who are a part of -- who would become within the ambit of this statute, are people that I fought and bled with. Think Band of Brothers. They were our men. They had my back; I had theirs. We have an obligation to them because they relied upon us, our work, that we would be there with them if they Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 stood with us. And, quite frankly, we abandoned them. We're talking about people who are at the very, very end of the food chain in terms of being very lucky to get out of that place after like Vietnam fell. So do I think that we have an obligation to them? Absolutely. But there's a very practical reason why, in addition to a moral obligation, that we should honor commitments to third-world nationals who fight for us, and that's because we need them now. As an ally, we are a very, very poor partner. Since World War II, since Korea, we've abandoned virtually everybody who has fought with us. Today there are Special Forces teams in Afghanistan. One of my best friend's sons just got back. When we talk about, oh, we're going to send special ops and that's going to be a combat multiplier and we're not going to need conventional forces to combat terror, what we are Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 talking about are using third-world nationals. Why would somebody fight for us if we don't recognize what they have done for us? It won't happen. They will be subject to -- I mean, here, communism were part of the force that we worked with. If they said, hey, guess what, America is going to finny Vietnam and you're going to be in the lurch, and that was true. If we maintain that attitude, then we won't get people to come fight with us, and we need allies for a number of reasons. So to support anything that says that, yes, we recognize an obligation and we will fulfill a partnership is a good thing. Thank you very much.
The next ten testifiers are here to give us your say on the soda tax. So let me remind Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 you that as much as we want you to have your say, we will have to have our way with the clock. Please honor the clock. Proceed, Michael.
Will the first five individuals approach the podium and line up along the wall by the podium in this order: Yvette Hill-Robinson. (No response.)
Norberto Santiago, Kenneth Margulies, Chris Hunter, George Matysik. (Witness approached podium.)
Good afternoon, Councilmembers. My name is Yvette Hill-Robinson, a lifelong friend of libraries in general and a friend of the Overbrook Park Library in particular. There is a magic inside of the Overbrook Park Library located at Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Haverford and Woodbine. It is a one-stop lifelong learning communication center for our neighborhood. It is a safe place where our children and our neighborhood know that they can go after school. It is not uncommon to hear one yell down the street, Make sure somebody saves a seat for me. It is because of the library that these students are excited to prepare for tests, get help with their homework, attend the book club, a coding class, work on the garden, participate as a book buddy, spending time with their friends in a place with caring adults they see every day. However, on May 26th, the library closed due to a broken air conditioning system. That afternoon it was heartbreaking to see students gathered outside the doors, staring past the "closed" sign trying to look inside. They looked around at each other, frantically confused, unsure what they Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 were supposed to do next. Many of them had nowhere to go, as this was where they spend their time after school, and they were not in a position to travel to another library outside of their neighborhood. This was disheartening, as Overbrook Park Library is more than a neighborhood library; it's the heart of the community. It's their safe place. The Friends of the Overbrook Park Library learned that the library would be closed until July 4th. We were terrified what this would mean for our community, for the people who rely on the library. Remembering the library was also closed last summer, we knew that we could not let these children miss another summer of library activities. With only one week's notice, we rallied the entire community together in order to move the summer reading kick-off celebration to a nearby recreation center and playground. Additionally, we feared for how Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 the young people would be spending their time now that they were not able to go to the library after school. There was one young man in particular who we knew would only stay outside of trouble because he was engaged at the library every day after school. During the library's closure, members of the Friends group, we have observed regularly, found this young man on his way to or engaged in unsafe activities. We have tried to serve as mentors to him and encouraged him to -
Ma'am, the clock has spoken twice. So we have to ask you to finish.
Council President Clarke, leader, members of City Council, my name is Ken Margulies. I serve as the President of the Board of the American Heart Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania. I'm an Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 academic cardiologist at Penn Medicine. I see the medical consequences and human impact of cardiovascular disease every day. At this historic moment for public health, I wish to convey the deep heartfelt appreciation and gratitude of the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association for Council's courage as you vote to pass the country's most significant sugary drink tax. (Applause and booing.)
Through your actions, Philadelphia will experience a reduced incidence of diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and strokes -
Can those who are in this Chamber, this is an opportunity for folks to have their say. Everyone deserves our silence while we allow them to have their say. Because you get a chance to have your say as well. If you care to speak, please sign up. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Proceed, citizen.
Through your actions, Philadelphia will experience reduced incidence of diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and strokes while promoting citywide pre-K education, park and recreation center improvements, and the health and quality of life benefits that these worthy programs entail. On a broader level, our city is at the vanguard of a central public health effort across America by demonstrating what is possible as our country grapples alarming trends in obesity and type 2 diabetes. In the years ahead, our city will be able to report that hundreds, even thousands of Philadelphians avoided a number of chronic diseases thanks to what you will do today. Those Philadelphians and their families may not have the chance to thank you for your leadership. So I will. Thank you. As Philadelphia has done time Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 and again, you are acting boldly to deal with very real concerns and needs of Philadelphians and our country as a whole. What you do here today and your leadership will resonate citywide and beyond. So thank you on behalf of the American Heart Association, the Philadelphia medical community, and the broader American medical establishment. (Applause and booing.) (Witness approached podium.)
My name is Rob Santiago. I'm a resident of Philadelphia for 39 years. I would like to thank you for giving me this opportunity to speak to you today to express my point of view on the grocery tax. I've been an employee of Pepsi Cola for 19 years, and in that time, I've had several roles there, selling and Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 service roles. My current role is working in an inner city dealing with primarily Spanish-speaking store owners. It's because of this that I stand here before you today. Many, if not all, of my customers have expressed a disapproval of the passage of this tax. However, they feel intimidated to stand before you because of their limited ability to effectively communicate in English their concerns with the passage of this tax. Therefore, I come before you as their advocate. They have all signed petitions. They have all called your offices to voice their opinions and to oppose this tax. My job in dealing with these customers every day is to ensure service along providing great products. Mostly importantly, my job is to bring value to the final consumer, your constituents. Because of the price and language barriers, all of my customers purchase Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 their products from wholesalers and distributors that only offer a limited priority of products. They are accustomed to traveling to find a deal on products for their stores. Through discounts, customer agreements, and overcoming the language barrier, I can provide options to our customers by selling them various products like juice, water, iced tea and coffee, isotonic drinks and, of course, a wide variety of carbonated soft drinks. By enacting this tax, my ability to offer our consumers the value within their neighborhood stores will be impossible. The owners of these stores will return to the old ways of finding options to supply their stores that will probably lead them outside the City confines to get the lowest price and also to maximize the profit. This will limit the variety of product offerings within the City stores, which will include non-carbonated healthier options. What Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 this will also limit is the revenue that you seek by imposing this tax. As I stand before you, they are not adverse to traveling out of the City to support their stores, to stock their store shelves. The amount of revenue that you will yield from this tax will decline over time. It will not sustain your long-term goals. It will also cost jobs, such as mine, reduce options in the corner stores that I service, which will also reduce the health benefits that you seek. Before you vote today, please ask yourself --
Excuse me, sir. Sir? Sir? Can you kind of wrap up it up. Your time is up. Thank you. (Applause.) (Witness approached podium.)
Good afternoon, members of Council. My name is George Matysik. I'm Executive Director of the Philadelphia Parks Alliance. As we've all heard, Council President Clarke begins every Council meeting by welcoming folks to see their government in action, their local government in action. But for most Philadelphians who can't make it down to Council, aside from seeing your trash picked up once a week, aside from expecting somebody to show up when you dial 911, their local government in action is at our parks, our rec centers, and our libraries, sites that are literally falling apart around us, and that's what they're seeing in their local government in action. With the passing of the soda tax, with the passing of the soda tax to fund rebuild, we can stop looking at our rec centers as just athletic centers and Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 begin looking at them as what they can be, community centers that can invest directly into our neighborhoods. Today's vote can be historic for many reasons, many reasons. We can make a lot of national news, but as historic as it is for you on Council, it will be even more historic for that kid at Happy Hollow Rec Center or Cecil B. Rec Center or Lawncrest Rec Center or the kid waiting in line for pre-K. (Applause.)
It will be historic for them, for the underserved communities in our city. And that is our local government in action. And so I urge you all to support Bill 160176 and pass the soda tax. Thank you very much. (Applause and booing.) (Witness approached podium.)
Hello, Mr. President, Council, and guests. My Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 name is Chris Hunter. Thank you for allowing me the time to share my thoughts and concerns of this proposed beverage tax. I'm a current resident of the Far Northeast for over 20 years and an employee of Coca-Cola. First, the proposed beverage tax would hurt the livelihood of myself and my son, my son who is currently enrolled in Philadelphia public schools, in the system, and attended pre-K in his early years. He loved it, yes. Every child should have the opportunity; however, not on the backs of hard-working Philadelphians in one industry. I would love to continue raising him in the City he was born and raised. However, Mayor Kenney's bad idea proposal of a beverage tax could dash and hurt those dreams, because I possibly may lose my job. Council, please give me pointers on how to explain this to my son. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Second, several of my employees would be also affected by this beverage tax and can lose their jobs should this pass. These employees have families too and are middle class, working, living paycheck to paycheck, paying taxes just like you and I. Don't crush their dreams of living the American dream. These jobs are good-paying, middle-class jobs that could leave the City, who I remind you pay wage taxes, now gone, not to mention these companies possibly taking operations outside of the City limits. What would that cost the City? (Applause.)
Bad idea. Philadelphia needs to keep jobs in Philly. Last, if this tax is passed, Philadelphia would create the worst black market for non-alcoholic beverages since prohibition, which was back in the 1920s and '30s. Let's not go back in history. Similar to the cigarette tax, which fell Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 $20 million short of what City officials projected, the beverage tax would cost even worse shortfalls, the black market. The City would have no control of collecting any tax. Finally, as a taxpayer in the City, I already pay some of the highest taxes in the country. I pay a tax on wages, property, sales, income, and an increased utility tax, just to name a few. This was rejected twice before and should be for a third time. As City leaders of Philadelphia, when are you going to say enough is enough? Thank you. (Applause.)
Good Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 afternoon. Hi. My name is Calla Bush St. George. I live in Councilwoman Bass's district, and I want to thank you all for allowing me to be here. I am here today to testify in support of the sugar-sweetened beverage tax, because it is imperative that this tax gets passed today. This tax hits me on a very personal note. When I was young, I was fortunate that my mom could send me to pre-K. I had a chance to get ahead academically, and when I entered kindergarten, my teachers could tell. Those years, when I was three and four, prompted my academic success. I am currently a senior at J.R. Masterman High School, and this fall I will start at Swarthmore College. I am a product of pre-K. I can see its importance, and I urge that others are given the same chance as me, so that what I have achieved becomes the norm in Philly public schools, not the exception. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 The main opposition to the soda tax besides that from the soda manufacturing companies is saying that it will disproportionately affect the poor and people of color. I understand that you do not want to pass a tax that hurts those who have already been hurt, but you have been misled by this argument. This tax will help, not hurt, low-income families. My family has come from poverty, and my aunts and uncles lived a life I can only imagine, and today they are facing the repercussions of their lack of nutritional education. Most everyone in my family up to this year who has died has died from a health-related cause. When my mom was growing up, there was no money to spare, so cheap sugary drinks were what were bought. Although they were inexpensive, the diabetes that has wrecked my family's lives and my aunts' is not. The heart Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 attacks, the strokes, the hospital visits, the funerals were due to a poor diet, a diet enabled by the cheapness of the drink they drank. This tax will save lives, and it would have saved so many lives in my family. I am here today to shed insight as a product of pre-K, as a student at a Philadelphia public high school, and as someone whose loved ones live in pain every day due to the sugary drinks they consumed. Thank you for listening to me. Have a nice day. (Applause.) (Witness approached podium.)
My name is Orlando Cruz. Good afternoon. First and foremost, thank you for this opportunity. Again, my name is Orlando Cruz and I was born and raised in Philadelphia. As a resident and Philadelphia taxpayer, I'm so disappointed with the City Council's Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 decision to pass this one-and-a-half-cent-per-ounce beverage tax in our great city. Philadelphia is one of the greatest cities in the country, yet its citizens also pay some of the highest taxes in this country. I know I don't need to remind the City Council that we are also one of the poorest cities in the United States. Now after months of debate over the impact that this tax will have on the people living in the poorest communities, the City wants to implement this beverage tax. The Mayor sold this bill of goods as money for the kids as a way to expand pre-K and as a way to upgrade recreation centers in Philadelphia. Now, while some of that might get accomplished, we cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that we just found out that $41 million in beverage tax revenue will now support fund balance. I ask you all today, do you really believe this was all about the Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 kids? (Some audience members yelling "no.")
As many of the Councilmembers in this room know, this tax will have a major negative impact on small business owners that depend on the residents of the community to help keep them in business. My fear is that many of my friends' businesses will be forced to close. How about the small mom-and-pop shop where you get your coffee every morning? What will happen to them? If this bill passes, the City will not generate the revenue the Administration anticipate it would. Businesses will shut down, jobs will be lost, and the kids and the advocates in this room will not see the programs that they were promised. We will all lose. This great city should be known as an innovative city that supports small businesses and working class, not one to Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 take a gamble on an Administration that wants to be considered trailblazers. Thank you for your time, and I ask that you please vote this down. (Applause.)
Thank you, President Clarke. I am Daniel Grace, Secretary/Treasurer of Teamsters Local 830. There is no other way to say this. The Kenney Administration has snookered City Council and the City's tax-weary citizens. The sugary drink tax just became a beverage tax, including all diet drinks as well. So much for the Mayor's pledge that those who didn't want to pay the sugary drink tax could simply make the switch to diet beverages. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 The tax hurts an entire industry, one that employs thousands of Philadelphians. It hurts the companies my union represents and it hurts the citizens, like the men and women of my union who are here today. This tax ignores the impact on retailers, forces shoppers out of the City, hurts the overall business climate, and will be catastrophic for small business owners, restaurants, and consumers. And it's decisive. We all agree on the value of education, but the way it was done was decisive for the City and the labor community, pitting one union against many others. As if that is not bad enough, Council and the City taxpayers discovered at the last second that the Administration earmarked at least $40 million annually in beverage tax revenues for the depleted fund balance, not to mention an additional 15 million annually in programs completely unrelated to Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 children. I thought the tax was all about the kids. Isn't that what we were all sold from the onset? Now we know we were sold nothing but a bill of goods. It is clear, the 95 million the Mayor claimed he needed annually to fund pre-K, community schools, and the rest was a sham. He wanted 95 million annually in a brazen cash grab from one industry and one industry only to pay for other initiatives that have nothing to do with children. Since the majority of Councilmembers are unaware of the many other essential programs the Administration intends to fund with revenue from the tax, Council should delay today's final vote. The proposed legislation you intend to vote on today bears no resemblance to the Administration's original proposal. It is now clear that the amount the Mayor claimed he needed for pre-K upon which Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 the revised beverage tax was calculated was wildly misleadingly inflated. You were all hoodwinked by the Administration to protect Council's integrity and independence. The right thing to do is delay final passage to allow for further scrutiny and public debate. The citizens you represent deserve nothing less. One final note, no less of a legal authority than retired state Supreme Court Justice Ron Castille has publicly declared the beverage tax illegal, stating that only the state Legislature can determine where and on what items the tax can be imposed. Think about that before you pass your final vote. Thank you.
The last two speakers approach the podium: Hillary Linardopoulos. Hillary Linardopoulos and Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Debbie Maienshein. (Witness approached podium.)
Good morning, Council. My name is Hillary Linardopoulos and I am testifying on behalf of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers. I want to thank this entire body for consistently focusing on funding and services that directly impact the children of Philadelphia. Year in and year out, you have worked to find ways to respond to a funding crisis that affects our school communities in very real ways on a daily basis. At the PFT, there has never been a question in our minds that Council would debate debt and ultimately coalesce around the best mechanism to ensure funding for pre-K, community schools, and rec centers. Council President Clarke and each of you deserve enormous credit for your unwavering respect for and commitment to the children of Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Philadelphia. We will continue to work alongside of you to fight for the schools our children and educators deserve, and we thank you for everything you do for the citizens and children of Philadelphia every day. (Applause.) (Witness approached podium.)
Good afternoon. Let me start by saying I know there's been a lot of rhetoric and a lot of communication and testimony regarding this issue. For those of you who are still present and attentive, I thank you for that. We thank you for that. Good afternoon, Council President Clarke and Councilmembers. My name is Deborah Maienshein and I work at the Coca-Cola plant at G and Erie in Philadelphia with over 700 of my fellow associates. Coca-Cola has been a part of the Philadelphia community for more than 114 years and provides good-paying jobs and great benefits. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 I've attended every hearing since March, and I would like to respectfully tell the members of this Council how very disappointed I was last week when we all found out that the sugar-sweetened beverage tax was not all about parks and rec, but it was in fact also about the fund balance. That is not the transparent government we voted for, and I was shocked to see the bait and switch that occurred here in this very room. Everyone here supports pre-K education. However, many Philadelphians disagree with singling out the beverage industry as a means to pay for it. A beverage tax is regressive and it's bad public policy. Today, most companies have to tighten their belts to survive. Our local bottling operation is no different. Many businesses have already implemented zero-based budgeting in one form or another so they are prepared to address Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 ever-changing economic conditions. In fact, Mayor Kenney recognized the value of zero-based budgeting during his campaign. We encourage the City to utilize this approach going forward so they can plan for today and the future and invest in the City versus continuing to tax hard-working Philadelphians. Lastly, I want to dispel a few myths that we have heard. It sounds like a small tax at one and a half cents per ounce, but in reality, it is equivalent to a 50 percent tax on the cost to consumers. This tax will be passed on to retailers. As you have heard from many small businesses, they will pass the tax on to consumers. A business cannot survive without passing on the cost of this unprecedented regressive tax. The beverage tax covers more than soda, including juice drinks, sports drinks, teas, flavored waters, and energy drinks, and now diets have been included Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 as well. Most Philadelphians will avoid beverage purchases in the City and will take their business to surrounding suburbs; that is, if they have the means to. In essence, the tax will be unfairly shouldered by the poorest of the poor. There is still time. We implore you, please vote no on this sugary drink tax. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you for your testimony. (Witness approached podium.)
My name is Madeline Dunn and I came down here prepared to vote no, but I changed my mind for one reason. If, if we get an audit going and the audit is to see that the money goes to the children only, you got a yes vote, and I mean it. It has to go. In Philadelphia, it seems as though we are all over the place on everything when -- let me just run this Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 by you since I'm not going to keep going on with the tax. I made a decision on that. My house was worth $35,000 in year '10. In year '11, it went up to 50. Nothing been built in my neighborhood, nothing. Okay? Guess what it was worth last year? $187,000. I'll be 83 in October. Where am I getting money to pay that kind of taxes from? So my kids don't get nothing for Christmas, grandchildren, graduation. Nobody got anything. If I decide to stroll down to Dunkin Donuts and get a coffee, I have to really punish myself, because I cannot afford it. My taxes are outrageous. So I understand the tax situation, but our children are in need, and I would like to see -- can I get a half a minute more, 30 seconds? I would like to see an audit on the Parking Authority, where the money comes from, because I think my community pays more in that than anybody else. I'd Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 like to see an audit on the School District, where the money is used, the textbooks. I mean, everything that they do for our children. I went to Martha Washington back in 1938 and they had papers and books, and people weren't making much money. And I can remember Mr. Dunn and I working like dogs, saving money. We have properties. And what's it worth now? What's the properties worth now? They all of the sudden went (indicating). I can't afford to pay the tax. But I'm paying it. You know why? Because I'm getting another job. I'm available. I'm available. (Applause.)
I'm getting another job. I'm only going to be 83 in October. My brain still works. I can move around some. I do have -
All right. Thank you. Thank you, Ms. Dunn. (Applause.) Stated Meeting June 16, 2016
Okay, Ms. Dunn. All right. Before our last speaker, just for the record, we're going to invoke Rule 16, Subsection 2 on public comment with respect to repetitious testimony. We have heard -- ma'am, hold on one second, please. So we have heard an unimaginable amount of testimony about the sugar tax, the beverage tax, whatever. So this is going to be our last speaker and then we're going to move ahead and we're going to conduct our business, and there will ultimately be a vote on all the measures before us today. Ma'am, please proceed.
Say your name for the record, ma'am. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016
My name is Ruth Bazemore. I've been a community person for a long time, and I really want to speak on the fact that this bill has been put through without representation or due process. First of all, as a senior in Philadelphia, we find that we are being pushed out to all these crazy things that the City is making us responsible for. The bill for our children, we need to be very clear. It's not about the children. It's about how Philadelphia runs its business. We're losing our homes through eminent domain. The colleges are taking over. Nobody is paying taxes but a few people and, therefore, all of the things that they say are children should already be paid by our taxes. So we need to be very clear. We need an investigation of why we're losing everything in the City of Philadelphia and the City is building condos and nobody is paying taxes and tax Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 abatement, and we're losing our city through all of the profits and nobody is paying taxes, but the people who are paying taxes are paying water bills, sewer bills. And so I want us, the City, to be accountable. Thank you. (Applause.)
Okay. That concludes our public comment session for today and for this budget season. So I will now ask Mr. Decker to read the titles of all the resolutions on the Consent Agenda. After each title is read, any member may object to the inclusion of the resolution on the Resolution Consent Agenda. Upon such an objection and without debate, the resolution will be immediately removed from the Resolution Consent Agenda and placed on today's regular Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker, would you please Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 the titles of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda.
Resolution No. 160481, entitled "A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank deeds conveying title to certain properties located in the Seventh Councilmanic District pursuant to the requirements of the Commonwealth Land Bank Act"; and Resolution No. 160619, entitled "A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the 44th and Aspen Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 756 Brooklyn Street"; and Resolution No. 160620, entitled "A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the University City Unit 3 Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 3500 Lancaster Avenue"; and Resolution No. 160621, entitled "A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the 44th and Aspen Urban Renewal Area, identified by house numbers and street addresses as 753 Brooklyn Street and 4206 through 08 Lancaster Avenue"; and Resolution No. 160622, entitled "A resolution initiating action to establish a neighborhood improvement district consisting of a parcel located at the northeast corner of 15th Street and Chestnut Street, commonly known as 1441 Chestnut Street, to be known as the Headquarter Hotel Neighborhood Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 District"; and Resolution No. 160624, entitled, "A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Urban Renewal Area, identified by house numbers and street addresses as 1800 Cecil B. Moore Avenue and 1804 Cecil B. Moore Avenue"; and Resolution No. 160625, entitled "A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Forty-Seventh Ward of the City of Philadelphia"; and Resolution No. 160627, entitled "A resolution authorizing the Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Authority to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Land Bank deeds conveying title to certain properties located in the Sixth Councilmanic District pursuant to requirements of the Commonwealth Land Bank Act"; and Resolution No. 160630, entitled "A resolution also naming the 3000 block of North Ringgold Street as 'John Brickhouse Way' memorializing the loyal and dedicated service of John Brickhouse to the 38th Ward"; and Resolution No. 160631, entitled "A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the West Philadelphia Redevelopment Area, identified by house number and street address as 4635 through 37 West Girard Avenue"; and Resolution No. 160632, entitled "A resolution approving the redevelopment Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the West Parkside Urban Renewal Area, identified by house numbers and street addresses as 1701 through 1717, 1702, 1706 through 1710, 1712 through 1716, 1719 through 1729 North Fifty-Second Street, 1718 North Creighton Street, 1722 through 24 North Creighton Street, 5216, 5618 through 20, 5222 through 34 and 5238 Parkside Avenue"; and Resolution No.
160633, entitled "A resolution approving the grant of an easement for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the West Parkside Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 1718 through 26 North Fifty-Second Street"; and Resolution No. 160638, entitled "A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Thirty-Sixth Ward of the City of Philadelphia"; and Resolution No. 160639, entitled "A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Thirty-Sixth Ward of the City of Philadelphia"; and Resolution No. 160641, entitled "A resolution calling upon the City of Philadelphia to exhaust all reasonably necessary steps to ensure that PMC Property Group reaffirms and satisfies its contractual and moral obligation to set aside on-site units of affordable Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 One Water Street, the expected performance of which conditioned the City's decision to grant PMC a substantial density bonus permitting construction of additional floors and units therein"; and Resolution No. 160653, entitled "A resolution nominating 25 individuals for consideration by the Mayor as appointees to the Commission on Parks and Recreation"; and Resolution No. 160654, entitled "A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Thirteenth Ward of the City of Philadelphia"; and Resolution No. 160658, entitled "A resolution urging the United States Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Representatives to pass House Resolution 210, Entitled, 'Affirming and recognizing the Khmer, Laotian, Hmong, and Montagnard Freedom Fighters and the people of Cambodia and Laos for their support and defense of the United States Armed Forces and freedom of Southeast Asia'"; and Resolution No. 160583, entitled "A resolution appointing Daniel Conner to the Board of Directors of the Germantown Special Services District"; and Resolution No. 160584, entitled "A resolution appointing Trapeta Mayson to the Board of Directors for the Germantown Special Services District"; and Resolution No. 160586, entitled "A resolution appointing Patrick W. Jones to the Board of Directors for the Germantown Special Services District"; and Resolution No. 160587, entitled "A resolution appointing Byron Davis to Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 of Directors for the Germantown Special Services District"; and Resolution No. "
Okay. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon for a motion to adopt each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and seconded that each of the resolutions on the Resolution Consent Agenda be adopted. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 opposed? (No response.)
The ayes have it, and each of the resolutions on the Consent Agenda have been adopted. We will now consider today's bill Consent Agenda. I will ask the Clerk to read the titles of all the bills on the Consent Agenda. After each title is read, any member may object to the inclusion of the bill on the Consent Agenda. Upon such an objection and without debate, the bill will immediately be removed from the Consent Agenda and placed on our regular and Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker, please read the titles of the bills on the Consent Agenda.
Bill No. 160302-A, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 14-518 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled '/WWA, West Washington Avenue Overlay District,' by adding additional Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 making related changes"; and Bill No. 160132-A, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 19 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Finance, Taxes and Collections,' by adding a new Chapter 19-4100, entitled 'New Sustainable Businesses,' to reduce the tax burden on new sustainable businesses"; and Bill No. 160133, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Business Income and Receipts Taxes,' to revise the Sustainable Business Tax Credit by changing the criteria for eligibility, by increasing the number of eligible businesses, by increasing the total tax credit amount, and by expanding the credit"; and Bill No. 160223, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 an area bounded by Ford Road, Chamounix Drive, Belmont Avenue, and Monument Road"; and Bill No. 160272, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code by amending Section 14-905, entitled 'Non-Accessory Signs,' by adding a new subsection to permit one advertising sign with certain conditions within the area bounded by Magee Avenue (extended), the Delaware River, Unruh Avenue, and New State Road"; and Bill No. 160275, 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 State Road, the Delaware Expressway (I-95), and Ashburner Street"; and Bill No. 160276, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code by amending Section 14-905, entitled 'Non-Accessory Signs,' by adding a new subsection to permit one Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 with certain conditions within the area bounded by State Road, the Delaware Expressway (I-95), and Ashburner Street"; and Bill No. 160299, 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 Ridge Avenue, Hermit Street, Henry Avenue, and Lincoln Drive"; and Bill No. 160300, 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 Carpenter Street, Broad Street, Washington Avenue, and 15th Street"; and Bill No. 160327, 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 Roosevelt Boulevard, Holme Avenue, Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Street, Solly Avenue, Farnsworth Street, Fuller Street, Revere Street, Rhawn Street, Farnsworth Street, Loney Street, Lister Street, Carnwath Street, Revere Street, Ryan Avenue, and Roosevelt Boulevard"; and Bill No. 160328, 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 Roosevelt Boulevard, North Ferry Road, Kelly Drive, Lincoln Drive, Gypsy Lane, School House Lane, Cresson Street, Indian Queen Lane, and Conrad Street"; and Bill No. 160335, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code by revising Chapter 14-500, entitled 'Overlay Zoning Districts,' with respect to the North Delaware Avenue Neighborhood Commercial Area Overlay District"; and Bill No.
160336, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Lehigh Avenue, Trenton Avenue, Norris Street, Front Street, Coral Street, Boston Street, Emerald Street, Hagert Street, and Kensington Avenue"; and Bill No. 160369, 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 Elkins Street, Olney Avenue, 20th Street, Belfield Avenue, and Wister Street"; and Bill No. 160515, 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 Parkside Avenue, Belmont Avenue, Girard Avenue, Merion Avenue, and 52nd Street"; and Bill No. 160518, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Grays Ferry Avenue, Kimball Street, 25th Street and Washington Avenue"; and Bill No. 160521, 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 Front Street, Coral Street, Boston Street, Emerald Street, Hagert Street, and Kensington Avenue"; and Bill No. 160522, 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 East Wingohocking Street, Adams Avenue, Bristol Street (extended) and the Frankford Creek"; and Bill No. 160526, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, including by amending Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 14-500, entitled 'Overlay Zoning Districts,' by modifying the boundaries of the Old City Residential District Area of the Center City Overlay District and by revising parking and loading requirements for the East Callowhill Overlay District"; and Bill No. 160402, entitled "An ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2017 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works"; and Bill No. 160470, entitled "An ordinance amending the ordinance approved July 12, 1968 relating to pension benefits for employees working on behalf of the Philadelphia Gas Works by revising the Philadelphia Gas Works Pension Plan to incorporate amendments thereto with respect to death benefits for certain plan participants"; and Bill No. 160510, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the City Treasurer, on behalf of the City, to enter into an Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 with Wells Fargo Bank for provision of payroll banking services to the City"; and Bill No. 160523, entitled "An ordinance providing for an exemption from charges relating to storm water management and disposal for community gardens operated for community benefit"; and Bill No. 160332, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2016 from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance - Provision for Other Grants to the General Fund, the Department of Streets, the Fire Department, the Department of Public Property, the Director of Finance, the Procurement Department, the Law Department, and the District Attorney"; and Bill No. 160334, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 or part of a parcel of land located in the area bounded by Buttonwood Street, North 10th Street, Hamilton Street, Ridge Avenue, and North 11th Street"; and Bill No.
160366, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to lease to the Rosemary Montagno Senior Center the premises located at 12601 Townsend Road"; and Bill No. 160399, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire a bridge that crosses the Schuylkill River below the Grays Ferry Bridge and to acquire rights or property interests in connection with supports for the bridge and its abutments"; and Bill No. 160406, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into an amendment to a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for the use by the City of Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 at 1101 Market Street"; and Bill No. 160463, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Director of Commerce to enter into an agreement to lease and purchase from Tinicum Township an approximately 21 acre parcel of land adjacent to Philadelphia International Airport"; and Bill No. 5 acres of Hog Island Road from Tinicum Township"; and Bill No. 160553, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a parcel of land commonly known as 3033 West Glenwood Avenue"; and Bill No. 14 acre parcel located near Delaware Avenue and Tioga Street"; and Bill No. 160560, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Director of Commerce to acquire approximately one acre of land known as Parcel 8A located in Tinicum Township at Tinicum Island Road (rear) and bounded by Philadelphia International Airport to the south, east and west sides"; and Bill No. 160561, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Director of Commerce to acquire an approximately two acre property known as 8365 Enterprise Avenue"; and Bill No. 2 Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 land known as Parcel T located at the northeast corner of Island and Escort Avenues"; and Bill No. 160563, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Director of Commerce to acquire land known as the Orange Line in Tinicum Township and Philadelphia, in the vicinity of Philadelphia International Airport"; and Bill No. 160224, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at the intersection of Boone Street and Dupont Street"; and Bill No. 160274, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 12-701 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Bicycle Lanes,' by authorizing the Department of Streets to designate buffered bicycle lanes, in each direction, on Tyson Avenue from Roosevelt Boulevard to Frankford Avenue, and to remove a travel lane in each direction of that portion of Tyson Avenue"; and Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 160363, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance (Bill No. 090120) approved April 15, 2009, entitled 'An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 107 and 130 by striking from the City Plan and vacating the legally open portions of Forty-Seventh Street from Fairmount Avenue to Brown Street,' by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein"; and Bill No. 160368, entitled "An ordinance legalizing an existing external steel stairs to the second floor of 2654 South Camac Street"; and Bill No. 160397, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 120 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Lambert Street and Woodstock Street, each from Jefferson Street to Redner Street"; and Bill No.
160403, entitled "An Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 parking regulations in the vicinity of: 13th Street and Wharton Street and Clymer Street and 12th Street; 13th Street and Bainbridge Street and 13th Street and Fitzwater Street"; and Bill No. 160404, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Sidewalk Sales,' by prohibiting vending on both sides of Allegheny Avenue between Kensington Avenue and Bath Street"; and Bill No. 160405, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Sidewalk Sales,' by prohibiting vending on both sides of Castor Avenue between Glenwood Avenue and Aramingo Avenue; on both sides of Amber Street, between Tioga Street and Castor Avenue; on both sides of Butler Street, between Frankford Avenue and Aramingo Avenue; and on both sides of Frankford Avenue, between Venango Street and Butler Street"; and Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 160459, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Mulherin Partners to install, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 1355 Front Street"; and Bill No. 160461, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority to construct, own and maintain digital outdoor advertising signs, encroaching on the public right-of-way at various subway, elevated train and rail entrances in the City"; and Bill No. 160513, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-212 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Newsstands,' by revising the requirements for sales from newsstands by permitting newsstands to sell additional products and services"; and Bill No. 160520, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Philadelphia License Number One to install, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 1200 South 21st Street"; and Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 160527, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Kubiel Ben Ayed to install, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 906 Christian Street"; and Bill No. 160528, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 27-S by striking from the City Plan and vacating Shunk Street from Swanson Street to Vandalia Street"; and Bill No. 160555, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the opening of Delaware Avenue from Orthodox Street to Buckius Street and the opening of the unopened and widened portions of Buckius Street from Richmond Street to the southeasterly right-of-way line of the Philadelphia Belt Line Railroad"; and Bill No. 160556, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the paving of Delaware Avenue from Orthodox Street to Buckius Street and Buckius Street from Delaware Avenue to Bath Street"; and Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 160558, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 305 and 306 by placing on the City Plan Delaware Avenue from Orthodox Street to Buckius Street"; and Bill No. 160559, entitled "An ordinance authorizing East Falls Development Corporation to construct, own and maintain various right-of-way encroachments at 4168 Ridge Avenue"; and Bill No. 160564, entitled "An ordinance establishing a no tractor trailer parking regulation on both sides of North 5th Street, from Spencer Street to Godfrey Avenue"; and Bill No. 160565, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance (Bill No. 140280) approved May 19, 2014, entitled 'An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 271 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Hope Street from Laurel Street Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Street,' by extending the period for compliance with the terms and conditions stated therein"; and Bill No. 160566, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9 of an ordinance (Bill No.
150377) approved June 18, 2015, entitled 'An ordinance authorizing the construction, ownership, and maintenance of various encroachments into the right-of-way of Market Street, Filbert Street, 11th Street, 10th Street, 9th Street and 8th Street,' by further authorizing the Streets Department to approve encroachments consistent with plans approved by the Philadelphia City Planning Commission and the City of Philadelphia Art Commission"; and Bill No. 160115, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code by creating a new Chapter to hold business owners responsible for nuisance behavior occurring on the business premises and within the immediate vicinity of the Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 business"; and Bill No. 160249, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-3908 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Notification of License Obligation,' by adding a requirement for the City to provide an explanation of the license requirements for vacant properties"; and Bill No. 160303, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-703 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Special Assembly Occupancies,' by further providing for types of activity to be regulated and by altering the fees and requirements for a Special Assembly Occupancy license"; and Bill No. 160462, entitled "An ordinance amending The Philadelphia Administrative Code, The Philadelphia Fire Code and The Philadelphia Property Maintenance Code of The Philadelphia Code, by adding certain provisions related to maintenance and inspection of fire escapes"; and Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 160468, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 4 (The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code) of Subcode 'A' (The Administrative Code) of The Philadelphia Code, by revising signage requirements relating to construction and demolition projects"; and Bill No. 160469, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 4 (The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code), Subcode 'A' (The Philadelphia Administrative Code), of The Philadelphia Code, by revising requirements relating to construction and demolition projects, including the expiration of permits"; and Bill No. 160472, entitled "An ordinance amending Subcode 'PM' of The Philadelphia Code, by adding certain provisions related to drinking facilities in schools"; and Bill No. 160278, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 17-1305 of The Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Code, entitled 'Compensation Required to be Paid to Employees,' to revise the compensation and benefits required to be provided in connection with application of the Philadelphia 21st Century Minimum Wage Standard"; and Bill No. 160301, entitled "An ordinance naming and designating an addition to the Marian Anderson Recreation Center, located at the corner of 17th and Fitzwater Streets, 'The Ryan Howard Training Center'"; and Bill No. 160304, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 15-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Parks and Playgrounds,' by adding a new section requiring that all parks or playgrounds owned or controlled by the City to be more inclusive, inter-generational and family-friendly and provide equipment and play or fitness opportunities to accommodate children and adults with special needs"; and Bill No. 160458, entitled "An Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 the Commissioner of Public Property to accept title to all or a portion of the parcels of land in the area bounded by North Street, North 18th Street, Wallace Street, and North 19th Street; and amending Chapter 15-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Fairmount Park System,' to include such properties among the areas designated as part of the Fairmount Park System"; and Bill No.
160473, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Parks and Recreation Commissioner to enter into an agreement to release and indemnify the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority in connection with access provided by SEPTA to carry out a project for improvements to JFK Plaza, also known as 'Love Park,' at 15th and JFK Boulevard"; and Bill No. 160529, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to accept title to all or a portion of the parcels of land commonly Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 1035 through 37 South 6th Street and 1028 through 32 South Fairhill Street; and amending Chapter 15-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Fairmount Park System,' to include such properties among the areas designated as part of the Fairmount Park System"; and Bill No. 160557, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Parks and Recreation Commissioner to sublease from the Philadelphia Municipal Authority certain land and improvements known as McArdle Playground, owned by the School District of Philadelphia"; and Bill No. 160325, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 17-1600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Economic Opportunity Plans,' by modifying the monetary threshold triggering the requirement of an economic opportunity plan on City funded projects or contracts"; and Bill No. 160129, entitled "An Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Chapter 17-1600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Economic Opportunity Plans,' by amending certain definitions; and amending Chapter 17-2000 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'First Source Jobs Policy,' by designating the Economic Opportunity Review Committee to oversee implementation and enforcement of the City's First Source Jobs Policy"; and Bill No. 160364, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 17-1300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Philadelphia 21st Century Minimum Wage and Benefits Standard,' to revise the benefits required to be provided in connection with application of the Philadelphia 21st Century Minimum Wage Standard"; and Bill No. 160370, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Contracts and Procurement,' by adding provisions requiring the City Contractors to pay subcontractors promptly and setting forth an alternative process for prompt Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 payment"; and Bill No. "
All right. Let's give Mr. Decker a hand. (Applause.)
Very impressive. These bills having been read on two different days, the question for each bill now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk shall call the roll, and upon being called, each Councilmember shall vote aye on each of the bills, nay on each of the bills or indicate those bills for which the member is voting aye or those bills for which the member is voting nay. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 Decker, please call the roll.
Aye on all bills, except Bill No. 160518 whereby I am recusing myself from voting on this bill because my law firm represents a party in this legislation.
Thank you. The record shall reflect that, Councilman.
Aye on all bills. A majority of all the members having voted in the affirmative for each Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 6/16/16 - STATED - 2ND READING of the bills, the bills on the Consent Agenda are passed. Again, let the record reflect that Councilman Green recused himself on one of those bills. We will now consider the bills and resolutions on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker, I would ask you to read the title of Resolution 160644.
A resolution condemning the racist, sexist, xenophobic, and anti-American values that have been espoused by Donald Trump during his bid for the United States Presidency, which are at odds with the deeply-held values of the City of Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection.
Yes, Mr. President. I'm not going to speak as long as I would have last week on this. Not the content of it as much as the Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 6/16/16 - STATED - 2ND READING content of it being a resolution of Council. This is personal privilege at the end. If you got a problem with what somebody says, does, got convicted of, went to jail for, whatever it is, the Council should not be weighing in on a presidential candidate's comments. I just disagree with that, and I'll be voting no. Thank you.
The record shall reflect that, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you very much, Council President. I did speak to my respected colleague, Councilwoman Helen Gym, and for the reasons stated by the Minority Leader, regardless of the content, I will be voting no on this for the stated reasons. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilman. Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 6/16/16 - STATED - 2ND READING The Chair recognizes Councilman Taubenberger.
Thank you very much. I've also spoken to my respected colleague, Helen Gym, and also in agreement with Councilman Oh and Councilman Brian O'Neill. I will be voting no as well and wish to be recorded as such.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gym.
Thank you very much, Council President and to colleagues. I'm proud to live in a city that passed a landmark Fair Practices Ordinance establishing wide-ranging legal protections against discrimination based on age, ancestry, breastfeeding, color, disability, domestic and sexual violence, ethnicity, gender identity, familial status, marital status, national orientation, pregnancy, childbirth or Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 6/16/16 - STATED - 2ND READING related medical condition, race, religion, sex and sexual orientation, all of which Mr. Trump has violated in numerous cases with his hate speech. The purpose of this resolution is to send a clear message. We have a right to First Amendment rights to speech; we do not have a right to be avoided from criticism of such. And with that, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 6/16/16 - STATED - 2ND READING ayes have it. Resolution 160644 is adopted. (Applause.)
A resolution requesting the City Controller to conduct an audit of the Philadelphia Parking Authority's policies and procedures on the administration --
Folks, could I ask you to keep it quiet, please. Thank you.
A resolution requesting the City Controller to conduct an audit of the Philadelphia Parking Authority's policies and procedures on the administration of its operations in the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Bill No -- I'm sorry; Resolution No. 160659 be Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 6/16/16 - STATED - 2ND READING tabled. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded that Resolution 160659 be tabled. All those in favor? (Aye.)
I oppose, but I'd like to be heard on it, Council President.
Yes. There's a motion on the floor. I can recognize you immediately after, sir. The rules say without debate, so -
When it's a motion to table. But I will recognize you immediately after the vote.
Stated Meeting June 16, 2016 6/16/16 - STATED - 2ND READING You -
The motion is on the floor. So there's no debate on the motion.