The next speaker is Blane Stoddart, commenting on 200303. (No response.)
Blane Stoddart. Unmute yourself, please, or star six to unmute.
Yes, we can hear you. Just state your name for the record and proceed with your testimony. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020
My name is Blane Stoddart. I run BFW Group. We have 15 employees. We are located at the Navy Yard. We're a black-owned company. I'm calling in in opposition to Bill No. 200303. Thirty percent of restaurants are out of business. Fifty percent of black-owned businesses are out of business, and there's no end in sight, it seems, for this pandemic. Ladies and gentlemen, my City Councilmembers, Mr. President, we need to really rethink this bill. I give -- as a small business, I give my employees -- we have 15 employees, ten full time, five part time. I give them 23 days off. If you add 14 more days to that, that's 37 days. That's $68,000. We do not have that. We're already in debt up to our -- like a lot of businesses, we're already in debt up to the wazoo and we're just trying to make it day by day, and I Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 say to City Council we need your help as the business community to get more jobs even with the City, to get more jobs in the City, and that's where we really need your help. I understand that some people that do not have proper personal protection. Some jobs don't have benefits, the driver community, the healthcare community, and the supermarkets. We are not them. Small businesses are suffering, and we need the help of City Council, not more unfunded mandates to drive up our costs and drive us out of business. Thank you, and may God bless you.
The next speaker is Ahmad Mitchell, commenting on 200303. (No response.)
Ahmad Mitchell. Star six to unmute. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 (No response.)
Yes, we do. Please state your name for the record and proceed with your testimony.
Yes. This is Marketta Phillips, and I'm calling about 200364. And so hello, Honorable Philadelphia City Councilmembers. Hopefully your families are well. My name is Marketta Phillips out of the West Philadelphia section of Philadelphia neighborhood and a volunteer with Citizen Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 Trustees with the Philadelphia Civic Trust and Citizens Campaign. The Citizens Campaign is a non-partisan and non-profit organization that educates and empowers citizen leaders to engage in the fullness of their political power through our no blame, problem-solving to public issues. Our solutions and legislative recommendations are doable based on data, being cost effective, and creating a beneficial impact for the City as a whole. On behalf of the Philadelphia Civic Trust, the Citizens Campaign, we vote yes in support of the police reform Bill 200364 regarding public hearings on police contracts proposed by the office of Katherine Gilmore Richardson and the Public Safety Committee. The Philadelphia Civic Trust also supports police reform policy proposals that include the following recommendations. The following police Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 reform policy recommendations will help increase public safety, transparency with civilians, and police accountability. Some of my other trustees are on this call, but the one that I'm focusing most on is body cameras have to be worn by all patrol officers. And pretty much the Philadelphia Police Department is asked to allow for the Citizen Campaign to meet Police Commissioner Outlaw and help audit Police Internal Affairs functions for transparency with community leaders and neighborhood residents on a regular basis. So my solution that I am referring from the Citizens Trust is that the Police Department should formally adopt a written policy that allows for an annual audit of Internal Affairs in use of force. Use of deescalation should be intensified when evaluating the job performance of our police officers. Our tax dollars pay for salaries and benefits for police officers to serve and protect Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 the citizens of this city. We need overall culture change with our Police Department in Philadelphia with moving from a warrior culture to a guardian culture that respects and serves all citizens. Thank you for your consideration, time, and service to the City of Philadelphia. We look forward to working with you on a solution.
Mr. McKay, star six to unmute. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 (No response.)
Mr. McKay? MR. McKAY: Yes. Can you hear me? I hear two people.
We hear you. Just state your name for the record and proceed with your testimony, please. MR. McKAY: All right. Yeah. My name is -- dear Honorable City Councilmembers, my name is Jon McKay from North Philly section. I am also a volunteer trustee with the Philadelphia Civic Trust and Citizens Campaign. You guys just heard our rundown, so I'm going to jump right down. Vote yes in support of the Bill 200364 regarding public hearings on the Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 Fraternal Order of Police contracts proposed by the office of Katherine Gilmore Richardson. My testimony is that the Internal Affairs Division is overseen by a lieutenant. One of the solutions that was recommended with inside funded community is that the Philadelphia Police Department consider hiring more civilians to assist Internal Affairs investigations with case management and promote the current officer in charge to the rate of captain in order to recruit lower rank into the unit and reduce investigative backlogs. This will reduce the time investigations take and identify officer or agency deficiencies in a timely manner. We need an overall culture change with our Police Department with moving forward from a warrior culture to a guardian culture, as my fellow volunteer stated earlier. That's it. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020
Thank you. Thank you very much for your testimony.
Yes, we can. Good morning. Please state your name for the record and proceed with your testimony.
Yes. Good morning. My name is Fareeda Mabry and I'm here to support police reform policies for cultural change in support of Bill 200364. Dear Honorable Philadelphia City Councilmembers, I hope you and your families are well. Again, my name is Fareeda Mabry. I actually live in Delaware County. I live in Glenolden, Pennsylvania and I work with the Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 Philadelphia Civic Trust. I volunteer with them. It's a non-partisan civic association made up of about two dozen Philadelphians who meet monthly to engage in no blame, problem-solving on our city's major challenges. We pledge to seek solutions that are based on evidence of success, won't cause tax increases, and benefits the City as a whole. We strongly support the police reform bill regarding public hearings on FOP police contracts proposed by Councilwoman Katherine Gilmore Richardson. It will provide the transparency we need. The Philadelphia Civic Trust also supports a public safety policy that includes three elements desired to bring upon long-term change, long-term culture change in policing. One, time individual officer's promotions to the use of force records; two, implementation of the annual deescalation of performance audits; three, a Citizens Advisory Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 Council focused on deescalation. Taken together, the policy will reduce excessive use of force, save money together -- save money in the policy budget because it reduces payouts and legal settlements and reduces police officers' injuries. An annual deescalation performance audit should be implemented by the Police Department. Our recommendation is that the audit would detail implementation progress or lack thereof across all areas required to bring deescalation about, such as training, hiring, and the use of force incidents. We need culture change with our Police Department in Philadelphia with moving forward from a warrior culture to a guardian culture that respects and serves all citizens. And I thank you for your consideration, time, and service to the City of Philadelphia, and we look forward Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 to working with you more.
M-O-R-L-E-Y. Yes. I'm John H. Morley, Jr., M-O-R-L-E-Y. Bill 200365 requires that anyone who tests fire protection equipment possess an ASSE 1510 certification. What is not written in the bill are that very few 1510 training facilities exist nationwide. All of them are owned and controlled by union members, and they will not allow a non-union sprinkler fitter to take the training. This bill is blatantly discriminatory, unconstitutional, and fatally flawed. This bill should be withdrawn and reintroduced only after a Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 non-union training facility exists somewhere in the Delaware Valley region. This bill will not increase public safety. The most knowledgeable inspector in the world cannot overcome design and installation error. I ask all Councilmembers to vote against this bill, please. That ends my testimony. Thank you.
Joseph Dunlap. Please unmute yourself if you're still connected. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020
Mr. President, Mr. Dunlap is connected. Just state your name for the record and proceed with your testimony, sir.
My name is Joseph Dunlap. I'm a sprinkler fitter, a non-union sprinkler fitter, for the last 25 years. I've earned all of my certifications in backflow inspections in FM200, C02 (inaudible) in all systems. I've been out on my own working, learning these different -- all of these different Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 sprinkler systems in all non-union sprinkler companies. I tried several times to get into Local 692 once, twice and always turned away. I know Philadelphia is a union town and everybody here -- like you got the carpenters, the electricians, and everybody has minorities. I don't see a lot of minority sprinkler fitters. And I've been certified for a few years now in a non-union sprinkler company, and if this Bill 200365 is passed, all the non-union sprinkler companies will no longer exist, and that means me and my family and a whole lot of other families won't eat. And I appreciate if there's a possible way that we can take a test so I can earn another certification. That's my testimony.
The next speaker is Devron Brunson. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 (No response.)
The next speaker is Devron Brunson. Mr. Brunson, are you in the meeting? If so, star six to unmute yourself.
We hear you, sir. Please state your name for the record and proceed with your testimony.
Okay. I am Devron Brunson. I'm calling about Bill 200365. I'm a 43-year-old black man and I've been working in the City for my whole life. I've roughly been at my job now for about 15 years. Even if this bill pass, me as well as a lot of other people more likely will become unemployed immediately. The Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 effects of this bill on our economy is definitely going to be negative. All right? I think the bill is one-sided. I think it prevents people like me from getting the proper licenses and certifications required by law to perform my job. If we don't join the union, then we can't work. We can't get in the union, because a lot of us are turned away from the union, which is -- I think that's very unfair, but everybody is entitled to run their own business their own way. We should be afforded the opportunity at least to earn a living. The only way we can get schooling is through the union, and if they don't let us into the schools, then what are we to do? So I think if nothing else, we should at least be afforded the time and opportunity to take the classes required so we can get the proper certifications Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 that we need to remain in our current job, because another thing that's very important is tenure. Us switching jobs and starting over, it's horrible. I mean, there's very few of us that are actually going to be accepted into the unions even if they do decide to allow some of us in, but even with that, the pay cuts from starting over, I mean, it may be just as bad as receiving unemployment, because you'll be fully employed but you may not have enough money to take care of your family, whereas if I was on unemployment, I would be able to seek out other things to help me out, you know. That's pretty much all I have for you, and I just ask please that you look over this and not let this bill pass. Thank you.
Thank you for your testimony, sir. The next speaker is Rob Spitz. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 (No response.)
Rob Spitz, are you still in the meeting? (Unidentified person speaking.)
Hello. Can you identify yourself for the record. We hear someone in the background. (No response.)
Michael Lauf, we hear you. Is this Michael Lauf? (No response.)
We hear you, sir. Can you please state your name for the Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 record and proceed with your testimony.
Yes, sir. Unfortunately, I believe my other colleagues are facing the same problem. There's a problem with the phone system and we're getting automated messages on our end. So my name is Michael Lauf, L-A-U-F. I am an owner and operator of a fire sprinkler company that's been serving the Philadelphia area for 49 years. For 25 of those years, we were a union contractor. The bill that is proposed, 300 -- I'm sorry; 200365 will only approve union-trained and oriented companies in order to enact and enable fire sprinkler certification within the City of Philadelphia. That will be a huge detriment to the City and its constituency. I would implore the City Council to oppose this bill, as it is unfair in many practices and will invite Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 many and much litigation. In the age of being all inclusive and looking for the betterment of our society, this bill stands in direct opposition of that. So, again, I ask you and implore upon you to oppose this bill. There is certification levels, as you've heard from some of the younger men that have spoken earlier, that need this license to effectively feed their families. There is a way to do this properly and, City Council, it's in your hands to do the right thing. I implore you again, vote in opposition to this bill. There's a better way to do it. There's a national certification level with equal testing facilities that can facilitate this opportunity better than what is proposed on the table today. So, again, I thank you for your time, Council, and welcome back from COVID and good luck in your future Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 endeavors. Thank you for your time. I yield.
Thank you for your testimony, sir. The final speaker is Jarrod Bolden. Mr. Bolden, are you back in the meeting? (No response.)
Mr. Bolden, star six to unmute, or mute button if you have one. (No response.)
Mr. President, there are no other speakers on the public comment list.
Hello. One of the speakers was bumped off. Can he be allowed to speak if he's on the Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 line?
Sure. Decker, can you check to see if Ahmad is live?
Madam Leader, it was reported to me by tech that he had been dropped from the call or that he had disconnected.
This is Ahmad Mitchell. Hello. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020
Okay. We can hear you, Ahmad. Thank you so much. Please state your name for the record and proceed with your testimony.
Thank you. My name is Ahmad Mitchell. Good morning, Council President Clarke and honorable members of City Council. I'm a member of One Pennsylvania and the line cook at Spice Finch Restaurant. I'm here today in support of Bill 200303, a bill that will provide 80 hours of immediately available paid leave, continued medical coverage, and job protection allowing workers to return to their jobs. Because the benefits from the federal government (inaudible) people furloughed from their jobs, the people of Philadelphia need your help to safely recover from COVID-19. By expanding paid sick leave, you would be supporting public health for working people, supporting the growth of businesses that experience a high worker turnover rate. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 This will make a big difference to me and my co-workers. We went back to work last week when our restaurant reopened. But not only take my word. According to the Center for Law and Social Policy, cities that pass laws requiring employers to provide paid sick leave saw a decreased flow in infection rates, increased workplace productivity, and businesses reported no loss in profits or increased business calls due to paid sick leave laws. Working sick also heightens the risk of transmission of diseases like COVID-19, especially for direct care workers, domestic workers, and the hospitality industry workers like myself. Because many people cannot afford to lose their jobs, they will work while sick, potentially worsening the current health emergency. COVID-19 has already cost both the people and the government too much. In supporting this bill, you will be Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 9/10/20 - STATED - 2ND READING supporting the health and recovery of the City and the country. We call on you to support this bill without the amendments from the Chamber of Commerce. Thank you for your time.
Thank you so much, Ahmad, for your testimony. Mr. Decker, does that conclude those scheduled to give remarks or comments?
Okay. Thank you. As stated, that concludes today's public comment period. We will now consider the bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. The Clerk will please read the title of Resolution No. 200399.
A resolution initiating action to continue the Mayfair Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 9/10/20 - STATED - 2ND READING Business Improvement District beyond its termination date in an area that generally includes both sides of Frankford Avenue from the north side of Harbison Avenue to the south side of Sheffield Street and certain blocks of streets that intersect that portion of Frankford Avenue; and for which Mayfair Business Improvement District, Incorporated, a Pennsylvania non-profit corporation, serves as the Neighborhood Improvement District Management Association for the District.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you. I move for the motion on the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor signify by saying Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 9/10/20 - STATED - 2ND READING aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 200349.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," to amend certain provisions of Chapter 14-500, entitled "Overlay Zoning Districts," by creating the "/AME, American Street Overlay District."
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez for an amendment to Bill No. 200349.
Thank you, Madam Chair. It was originally my intention to amend the bill. However, I would now like to send the bill back to committee. I, therefore, move that Bill Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 9/10/20 - STATED - 2ND READING No. 200349 be remanded back from the Calendar and recommitted to the Rules Committee. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. That bill will be recommitted to committee. Do we need to do a motion, Mr. Decker?
Okay. All those in favor of the motion to recommit the bill to committee will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and Bill No. 200349 will be re-referred back to committee. Will the Clerk please read the title of Bill No. 200350. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 9/10/20 - STATED - 2ND READING
An ordinance amending the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Norris Street, American Street, Berks Street, and 3rd Street; and amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," to amend certain provisions of Chapter 14-500, entitled "Overlay Zoning Districts," by creating the "/BNA, Berks and American Overlay District."
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I move that Bill No. 200350 be withdrawn.
It has been moved and seconded that Bill No. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 9/10/20 - STATED - 2ND READING 200350 be withdrawn. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. Bill No. 200350 has been withdrawn. Will the Clerk please read the title of --
Okay. I can't see you. I'm looking at another screen. Thank you, Mr. President.
All right. Thank you. Thank you, Councilwoman. I appreciate you. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill No. 200188.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 9/10/20 - STATED - 2ND READING Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to acquire fee simple title or a lesser real estate interest to all or a portion of a parcel or parcels of land located in the vicinity of Calera Road between Red Lion Road and Chalfont Drive, commonly known as the Liberty Bell Youth Organization Recreation Center.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.
Aye. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 9/10/20 - STATED - 2ND READING
Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 9/10/20 - STATED - 2ND READING
Mr. Decker, what bill are we voting on? My apologies.
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill No. 200345.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 9/10/20 - STATED - 2ND READING Property, on behalf of the City, to acquire fee simple title, or a lesser interest in real estate, by purchase, dedication, donation, condemnation, agreement in lieu of condemnation, or otherwise, in parcels of land along the Delaware River and in the bed of the former Kensington & Tacony Railroad.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.
Aye. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 9/10/20 - STATED - 2ND READING
Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez. Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 9/10/20 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill No. 200354.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an Amendment to a Joint-Use Agreement with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania pursuant to which certain parcels of real estate constituting the I-95 right-of-way, Stated Meeting September 10, 2020 9/10/20 - STATED - 2ND READING located beneath the elevated highway between the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and the Walt Whitman Bridge, are leased to the City of Philadelphia by the Commonwealth, subleased by the Interstate Land Management Corporation.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.