Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, April 27, 2017 10:40 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN ALLAN DOMB COUNCILMAN DEREK S. GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILWOMAN HELEN GYM COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN CHERELLE L. PARKER COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN AL TAUBENBERGER MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
If the guests and visitors will retire behind the rail, we will get moving. Thank you. Before we start our session today, I would ask that if anyone has a cell phone or any other electronic device that makes any kind of noise, would you please turn it off or turn it on airplane mode. Thank you very much for your cooperation. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Pastor William Brawner of Haven Peniel United Methodist Church. He is here today as my guest. I'd ask all guests, members, and visitors to please rise. (Councilmembers and guests rise.)
Good morning. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 (Good morning.)
Let us look to the Lord. Dear Heavenly and Most Gracious God, we worship you. We give you thanks. We praise you for your glory. God, right now as we sit in this Chamber, as we sit at the helm of your feet, God, we ask that you lead us, guide us, and direct us. Fill this place with your spirit, God. Allow us always to remember that people in whom you wish us to touch and the people who have been lost and forgotten and the people who we represent on this morning, dear God. God, right now we pray for our schools. We pray for our churches. We pray for our communities. We pray for that mother who is single and has no food to eat. We pray for that brother who has come home from prison and has no job to welcome him home. God, right now we ask that you remind us of who we are but whose we are, Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 God, and who has put us in the positions that we're in right now. God, allow us not to forget what you have called us to do. And, God, we will be ever so mindful to give you all the praise, honor, and glory. It is in Jesus' name we pray. Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you so much, Pastor. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you very much. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 20th, 2017, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 20th, 2017 be approved. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 20th, 2017 stand approved. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests of leaves of absence today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair now recognizes Councilman O'Neill. Where's Councilman Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 O'Neill? Oh, there he is. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. At this time, I would like to dispense with the regular order of business and I would like to thank everyone who has taken time out of their busy day to come down to witness their government in action. We hope that your stay here today is a knowledgeable one and, more importantly, a pleasurable one, so much so that you come back again. Again, thank you so much for your participation in today's session. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson, who will present a resolution welcoming the National Football League Draft. Would Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 -- I don't know whether to call you former Eagles player or Congressman. I'm going to call you Congressman John Runyan and our good friend Garry Cobb please join the Councilman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And joining Councilman Johnson, we have Councilman Taubenberger.
So this is a joint effort, and I learned under the explicable and dynamic leadership of my Council President that all things that we do in City Council is a joint effort and it's a team effort. So I'm going to ask for all of my colleagues to please join me at the podium and don their NFL Draft hats, please. (All Councilmembers approached podium.)
So we also have joining with us is Garry Cobb, also Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Congressman, Philadelphia Eagles Paul Runyan and -- John Runyan and also Peter O'Reilly, and with my colleague Councilman Al Taubenberger, we're doing a bipartisan presentation. We won't hold it to our former congressman republican, so you'll just read background about the things he's worked on and I'll talk about Mr. Cobb.
Absolutely. Congressman Runyan, it's a pleasure. John Runyan is the current Vice President of Policy and Rules Administration for the National Football League. Runyan is a former two-term United States Congressman from Jersey's Third Congressional District. Prior to running for office, Runyan was an offensive tackle and played 14 seasons in the NFL, nine of which were right down on Broad Street for the Philadelphia Eagles. During his 2002 season with the Eagles, Runyan was selected for the Pro Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 a member of the 2004 Super Bowl team. Runyan lives in New Jersey suburbs with his wife, Loretta, and three children.
Mr. Garry Cobb is the current TV and radio personality on Fox 29 and Sports Radio 94 WIP. Mr. Cobb also runs a popular Philadelphia sports website, gcobb.com. Prior to joining Sports Radio, Cobb played 11 seasons in the NFL as a linebacker, three of which were for the Philadelphia Eagles as a crucial member of Coach Buddy Ryan's extraordinary defense. Some of Cobb's teammates include Hall of Famers Troy Aikman and Michael Irvin. Mr. Cobb was honored in 2002 by President George W. Bush for his work with troubled youth. Mr. Cobb is married to his college sweetheart and they have three adult children. Representing the NFL, we have Peter O'Reilly, who is the current Senior Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 for the National Football League. Peter O'Reilly oversees events such as the Super Bowl, Pro Bowl, NFL Draft and others. Peter O'Reilly is no stranger to the NFL. He previously worked for the League in the Fan Strategy and Marketing Department. O'Reilly has also worked for the NBA and on New York City's 2012 Olympic bid. So it's only fitting that my colleagues who are standing by -- who are standing on this podium here with me today honor the NFL Draft as we host them here this weekend here in the City of Philadelphia. I want to say hats off to the Administration, Mayor Kenney and his team and, most importantly, the First Lady of our Councilman, Curtis Jones, Jazelle Jones, who leads all the efforts here in the City of Philadelphia. (Applause.)
And so the event is hosted in the great councilmanic Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Fifth, sponsored by Council President Darrell Clarke, but I just think as we move forward, as the City, we had the Democratic National Convention. We also had the Pope. And hosting this event is just another example of the City of Philadelphia moving in the right direction. And as the Council President always says, this is a team effort, the Administration but, most importantly, members of City Council that's doing the hard day-to-day work making sure we get things done. And so on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, we want to welcome the National Football League Draft to the City of Philadelphia, commemorating the first ever NFL Draft, which took place on February the 8th in our city 1936. Whereas, the 82nd NFL Draft will take place April the 27th to April the 29th, 2017, largely centered around the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The event is Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 200,000 football fans to Philadelphia; and
Whereas, Philadelphia has a long history with the NFL Draft. Having played host to the inaugural draft on February 8th, 1936, the Philadelphia Eagles made the first player selection. Over the course of its 81-year history, the Draft has returned to the City 15 times; and Whereas, the NFL Draft was instituted as a measure to create competitive balance in the league by allowing weaker teams from the previous season to select the most talented incoming players. As a result, the NFL has been able to create compelling competition across the league; this model has been followed by all other major American sports. In fact, there's a book about it on any given Sunday, so it proves it works. Whereas, major events such as the NFL Draft help to advertise the Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 The Draft will draw attention to Philadelphia's many attractions and offers yet another opportunity to showcase our great city; and Whereas
Whereas, the citizens of Philadelphia are deeply devoted to the sports franchises that call this city home, particularly the Philadelphia Eagles, which is located in Second Councilmanic District. The 2017 NFL Draft will allow Philadelphians to gather with sports fans from across the country in celebration of their favorite teams. The City of Philadelphia is proud to join with the NFL as the host of the 2017 Draft; now, therefore, be it Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia hereby welcomes the NFL Football League Draft to the City of Philadelphia and commemorates the first ever NFL Draft, which took place in the City of Philadelphia on February the Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 8th of 1936. And on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, we want to officially present you this citation and say welcome to the City. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
And the Chair recognizes Mr. O'Reilly for remarks.
Thank you so much, Councilmember Johnson. Thank you so much, Councilmember Taubenberger. Thank you, Council President. On behalf of the National Football League, we could not be more excited that the NFL Draft is headed home to its birthplace here in Philadelphia starting today. (Applause.)
This city, this City Council, the Mayor, everybody across the City, Superintendent, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, certainly Jazelle Jones and her husband have been with us throughout this process and been Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 embraced, you have embraced the NFL Draft, and I think you will see today and tonight and over the next three days that we at the NFL are embracing Philadelphia and bringing that to life on the national and global stage through the NFL Draft. This is for us one of our biggest moments, and we couldn't be more proud to be back here. It's not only about those three days on the Parkway, but it's everything we're doing this entire week in partnership with you, in every part of the community, in schools to make sure we leave a lasting impact here in Philadelphia. That's important wherever we go. We're thrilled to be here. The weather is fantastic, which we thank you for as well, and we are excited for a great three days. And I'll hand it over to my taller and more accomplished colleague, Mr. John Runyan. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 (Applause.)
Thank you, Council President Clarke, Councilman Johnson, Councilman Taubenberger, and all members of Council for this acknowledgment. When I speak and from my background, what this is all about, it's about teamwork. We all had a role in this. We all have a hand in this. And when you want to talk about this nation, you want to talk about the National Football League, it all started right here in Philadelphia. Talking about the first National Football Draft 81 years ago here, Bert Bell started right here at the Ritz Carlton on Broad Street. But you want to know the irony of the whole thing? The last time the NFL Draft was in Philadelphia was 1960. What happened? The Eagles won the World Championship. (Applause.)
Another thing just to hang your hat on. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 another former Eagle, Troy Vincent, who is actually Executive Vice President of Football Operations at NFL and my boss, we thank you for your partnership. Between Troy and I, we know how much football means to this city. It's great to be here. And, again, on behalf of the National Football League, thank you for this resolution and thank you for your hospitality, and have a great day. The gates open at noon today. (Applause.)
Good afternoon, everybody. I also would like to thank City Council, of course, for welcoming the National Football League, but I'd like to emphasize something else that these few days are about. Last night I was sitting with a young man who could very well be drafted by the Eagles. His name is Derek Barnett. He played at the University of Tennessee. I was sitting with him and his mom, and they were Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 different challenges they've been through, you know, raised by a single mom and they went through some tough times where they had some challenges financially and a lot of different challenges they went through as a family. But they're able to experience what can be -- what's going to be an outstanding evening for the young man and his family, and that's one of the great things about the NFL. The National Football League is giving these young men a chance to live out their dream, giving a lot of young families an opportunity to experience really some of the great things about not only our world and our country, but of course the City of Philadelphia, but being able to live out their dream. And really that's what it's all about. That's what we really expound as a country, for young folks to be able to dream of doing different things and then get the chance to experience it. That's what we're going to see tonight. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 see a lot of tears, a lot of people tearing up and crying about this experience, but we're going to all be able to enjoy it with them. So I just encourage you to enjoy this night. It's going to be a great time for everybody, and there'll be a lot of tears shed, but they'll be tears of joy, and that's what's going to be great about it. God bless you, and nice to talk to you. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you. It's going to be an exciting three days. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who will present a resolution acknowledging the PennAssist Program - Bridging the Gap Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Building Trades. Would Steve Greulich, Anthony Wigglesworth, Dr. William Hite, and those accompanying them please join the Councilwoman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And joining the Councilwoman, we have Councilman Greenlee, Councilwoman -Councilwoman is suggesting that everybody come up. (All Councilmembers approached podium.)
Thank you. So we're asking all of labor, all of Penn, Dr. Hite, the School District, Della Clark, my partner, all who are here. And Kenyatta thought he started something, but we have everybody included, because this resolution will affect all our districts. It's not just Jannie Blackwell in West and Southwest. This is a citywide change, and that is Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 to read a part. Blondell, please start us out.
I would add my editorial comment that this is a citywide sea change wherein the entire city, when done right -- and under Councilwoman Blackwell's leadership, I am sure it will be done right. I had the good fortune to work in Harrisburg as a legislative aide when Governor Casey was -- Senator Casey's father was Governor, and I often heard him say, The question is, and what did you do with the power when you had it. Councilwoman Blackwell has pulled together an unprecedented group of stakeholders who under her leadership I am sure will get it right when it comes to ensuring that young people in the School District end up with skills that they can get them a job and move them so that we can reduce that 25 percent poverty rate. This matters, and I congratulate Councilwoman Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 and commending the University of Pennsylvania, LF Driscoll, the School District of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Building Trades Council for their establishment of the unprecedented PennAssist Program - Bridging the Gap from High School to Building Trades, PennAssist Program - Bridging the Gap from High School to Building Trades, an unprecedented effort to promote and support our city's youth in their pursuit of careers in the building trade.
Whereas, Penn Medicine is developing a new state-of-the-art hospital to be known as the New Patient Pavilion in the University City area of the Third Council District in the City of Philadelphia; and
Whereas, the development of the hospital will provide significant economic opportunities for residents and businesses in the City of Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 region; and
Whereas, minority and women workers and minority and women-owned businesses have often not had equal opportunity to work on construction projects occurring in the City; and
Whereas, the School District of Philadelphia Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in construction are half empty because graduates have not been able to find work as apprentices or continue their building trades education by getting into union apprenticeship programs; and
Whereas, in October 2016, the Director of the CTE program testified in Council that the District views City Council as an important partner and requested that Council advocate for the building trades unions to partner with the District CTE programs to increase student access to the union apprenticeship programs; and Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
Whereas, the University of Pennsylvania, its construction manager LF Driscoll, the Philadelphia Building Trades Council and the School District of Philadelphia have collaborated to create the PennAssist Program to provide a pathway to union apprenticeship for graduates of CTE and other pre-apprenticeship programs, to promote workforce diversity on Penn construction projects and construction projects around the City; and
Whereas, under the program, 2017 CTE graduates can enroll after completing a CTE program focused on a career in the building trades. An information session will be provided at each of the CTE locations to inform students of the program. All interested students can sign up; and
Whereas, students will undergo a skills assessment and receive help obtaining a driver's license. Students will participate in a Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 camp to begin July 2017, where they will receive basic math and work with skills training, as well as OSHA training. The skills assessment and boot camp results will aid in the PennAssist team of students to identify the trades most suitable for each student. All students will receive a small stipend to cover the cost of lunch and transportation for the duration of the boot camp; and
Thank you, Councilwoman Blackwell. Whereas, following the boot camp, the PennAssist Team will pair each student with the most aligned trade and trade contractor and the student will begin to work on a Penn Medicine or Penn construction project where students will perform work of a first-year apprentice and receive pay of $16.50 an hour; and
And a point of personal privilege. I'm a 26-year member of the Philadelphia Building Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Trades, and I could not be prouder than this moment here today. The Building Trades have had partners with the School District and a lot of non-profits throughout its years and its end users, its institutions, but it took leadership of Councilwoman Blackwell -- thank you, Councilwoman Blackwell -- the business manager of Philadelphia Building Trades, John Dougherty, to put these pieces together in one agreement like this is historic, and I am extremely proud, as you all should be, to present this resolution here today as we stand with all members of City Council. Whereas, during the twelve months of the program, students will have the opportunity to sit for an apprenticeship test in their trade choice and may access additional math and work skill training through the General Builders Contractors Association.
If a student misses a scheduled test, the Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 will allow for an apprentice test to be administered to a student outside the regular testing schedule. Students who pass the test will join the union and continue working in the building trade; and
Whereas, the program is planned for the 2017 CTE graduates and it is intended to be continued into the future and is further intended to be expanded to include future graduates and other young Philadelphians outside the CTE program; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that City Council hereby acknowledges and commends the University of Pennsylvania, LF Driscoll, the School District of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Building Trades Council for their establishment of the PennAssist Program Bridging the Gap from High School to Building Trades; and Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented as an expression of City Council's sincere thanks and gratitude for this unprecedented effort to promote and support City youth in their pursuit of careers in building trades. And let's give another huge round of applause for Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell and her leadership. (Applause.)
And the Chair recognizes Steve Greulich, Anthony Wigglesworth, and Dr. William Hite, in that particular order. Whatever order you want.
Thank you, Council President Clarke. Thank you, members of City Council, in particular Councilwoman Blackwell, for making sure that the School District was a part of this work. And one thing that we have always and continue to do is to ensure that our Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 opportunities, and this type of partnership creates those opportunities for young people coming directly out of high school. It gives them opportunities to work in the field of building trades. The fact that 2017 graduates, once they graduate from one of our CTE programs, has a direct pathway into this type of opportunity is very exciting and a very exciting day for the students in the City of Philadelphia and the School District of Philadelphia. So, once again, to all of the individuals who were involved, thank you, LF Driscoll, Building Trades, University of Pennsylvania. Thank you to my colleague and the CTE Office and all of the other individuals who made this happen but, more importantly, thank you, Councilwoman Blackwell, for making us a part of this very important initiative. (Applause.)
Good morning. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Penn Medicine, and on behalf of Penn and Penn Medicine, I would just like to thank Council for this honor and especially like to thank Councilwoman Blackwell for her leadership in this and for her passion for bringing and for getting young Philadelphia students into the building trades. I believe that behind every successful program is a strong partnership, and as has been noted here, I'd just like to acknowledge the School District of Philadelphia, the General Building Contractors Association, Philadelphia Building Trades Council, Built-Rite, and LF Driscoll for partnering with Penn Medicine on this program. And so I think I speak for all of us when I say we look forward to starting this, implementing this program, and seeing its fruits in the youth of the City of Philadelphia. Thank you. (Applause.) Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
Good eve -good morning. It's not good evening yet. What you see up here is a manifestation of the process that we engaged in to come up with this program, starting with the persistence and the challenges that were thrown out by Councilwoman Blackwell. A large group of us got together to figure out how to make a better process to allow our young men and young women in the City of Philadelphia who are in our public schools access to our Building Trades Council unions. The Building Trades Council and its affiliates is foursquare behind this program. There is a belief that this is the way to find our talented -- and I want to emphasize talented -- young men and young women to find their way into our building trades unions. Some do now. More will in the future. I want to thank my partners in this process, the Philadelphia Building Construction Trades Council, LF Driscoll, Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Medicine, the University of Pennsylvania, and the School District of Philadelphia's CTE program for what I think will be an extremely effective way to move people into family-sustaining jobs. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you very much. I'd like to ask Della Clark and John Christmas to join me here. These are my partners, along with Stan Straughter, who had to go to Jersey today on another issue. And all of those who are here have not been introduced. We have Sam Staten, Local 332, and other members who are here who have come to show all of their support. We invite them to stand. Many of you have come from labor. (Applause.)
Thank Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 you, Sam, as well. And let me say that Tony Wigglesworth and I -- I got moved, because I think of Lucien Blackwell. As all of you know, this is a labor town. We can't do it without one another. We couldn't do it, of course, without the kids, Dr. Hite, and we couldn't do it without all of you. And we included all of you in this resolution because it affects all of us in our neighborhoods and in our schools. And Tony Wigglesworth and I worked years ago when Lucien was still alive and we had the Lucien E. Blackwell Apprenticeship Program before the economy hit and we lost that program with Penn. And I'm just moved today that we're all here together and that we prove no matter how much we can agree or disagree, we can come together to improve the quality of life, help youngsters, help people in neighborhoods, because some people have already graduated who want to take the Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 children, but it's an open program so that we can make life better. We can do better in all jobs. We can do better across the board when it comes to employment. And I'm moved today, and I say thank you, Lord. God bless you. (Applause.)
And Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.) (Applause.)
Thank you and, again, congratulations to the Councilwoman. Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez, who will present a resolution honoring Judith Bernstein-Baker. Would Ms. Bernstein-Baker and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
And joining the Councilwoman, we have Councilman Oh, Councilman Jones, Councilman Greenlee, Councilwoman Parker, Councilwoman Blackwell.
Could her family join her up here. I know her grandson and her husband. Could you please join us. Thank you. It's a different world post November, and I think this is a fitting time to really honor and recognize someone who has been really a trailblazer when it comes to protecting, defending refugees and really has educated and informed the City of Philadelphia around the importance of our immigrant community. Judy has retired, but she is busier today than she was when she was running HIAS. I asked her what are you going to do, outside of recovering from her surgery, and she gave me 12 things - Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 well, I wrote a book, I'm teaching at Community College, I am educating lawyers around immigration, and I've learned to knit. And she is making pussy hats. Sorry. And so the women of Council are going to put in an order for our hats. We really thank her for all of the work that she has done. She has helped all of us in our advocacy and in our work, and I am sure there are hundreds of people who are in this country as contributing members who sought refuge with her and the work that she's done, and we really want to thank her. So with that, I thank my Council colleagues to join me this morning in recognizing and honoring Judith Bernstein-Baker. Judith Bernstein-Baker, born to Jewish immigrants from Poland, and raised among Latino and Asian seamstresses in New York, has devoted every waking moment of her career to welcoming strangers Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 into the fabric of our community, and to ensuring these new neighbors full access to everything our diverse and vibrant neighborhoods have to offer; and
Whereas, Judi's eighteen years of service to HIAS Pennsylvania has been deeply personal; per the Jewish value of welcoming the stranger, HIAS is the nation's oldest international migration and refugee resettlement agency, providing legal and supportive services to immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers to assure their fair treatment and full integration into American society; and Whereas, since joining HIAS Pennsylvania as Executive Director in 1998, Judi has led the non-profit to triple in size and expand its services to provide legal, social, and resettlement services to low-income Philadelphians who seek political asylum, citizenship, and relief from deportation; and Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
Whereas, during Judi's tenure, HIAS Pennsylvania has relocated refugees fleeing violence in Central America and West Africa; secured temporary protective status to Haitians after the 2010 earthquake; helped citizens obtain special visas for refugees from domestic abuse; and became the region's largest provider of free immigration services to unaccompanied, abused, and neglected minors; and
Whereas, since the day Judi first arrived in the City of Brotherly Love - to attend the University of Pennsylvania's graduate School of Social Work and Temple University's Beasley School of Law - she has helped grow the City of Philadelphia's international reputation for welcoming, supporting, and embracing members of our society who have fled oppression, violence, and even torture; and
Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Whereas, Judi's tireless outreach and advocacy has influenced the preservation and expansion of immigrant rights not only by the City of Philadelphia, but also by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In 2003, Judi courageously established the Pennsylvania Immigrant and Citizen Coalition, our first and only statewide immigration advocacy organization. Most famously, Judi halted PennDOT's proposed cancellation of thousands of licenses for immigrants and refugees in need; and
Whereas, Judy Bernstein-Baker is a living legend in Philadelphia's public interest community. She was the first staff attorney at the Support Center for Child Advocates, the nation's oldest and largest pro bono program for abused and neglected children. She founded and directed the Penn Law Public Service Program - the first of its kind in an Ivy League school. She enlisted and trained hundreds of attorneys and law students in Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 for citizenship. She co-wrote Understanding Immigration Law and Practice, a guide for the next generation of practitioners to protect immigrants and refugees to the fullest extent of our laws. And she continues to advocate, tirelessly and without pause, for all Philadelphians' right to legal counsel to secure basic everyday needs; and
Whereas, in 2013, the Philadelphia Bar Foundation Award, originally known as the Apothaker Award, was presented to Judi Bernstein-Baker for exemplifying the highest ideals of public interest law and exceptional service to the legal service community; and Whereas, Judi's career is perhaps, most of all, marked by her unwavering dedication to her staff, colleagues throughout the Philadelphia public interest community. Best put by Reggie Shuford, Executive Director of the Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Pennsylvania, and I quote, "Judi always took the time to offer a word of encouragement or support, to attend an event, or to send a congratulatory message. It is her warmth, compassion, empathy and genuine interest in others that made her so effective as an advocate for social justice. We will miss her among the ranks of the executive directors of non-profit legal service organizations, but we are comforted to know she is just a phone call away"; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that the Council honors, recognizes our dear friend Judith Bernstein-Baker upon her retirement and her second cycle of advocacy from HIAS and a lifelong career in support and embracing of our most vulnerable neighbors. Thank you so much, Judi. (Applause.) Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
And the Chair recognizes Ms. Bernstein-Baker for remarks.
Thank you very much, Council President Clarke, and of course thank you, Councilwoman Sanchez and Gym and Councilman Jones, Greenlee, and Oh and Councilwoman Blackwell, all of whom have done so much to welcome immigrants and refugees to Philadelphia. And I don't know if there's anybody left from the Building Trades Council, but just so you know, my mother was an immigrant union organizer with the then IOGWU, and her story was recorded because she participated in many strikes and picket lines. And she informed me that one of the biggest problems they had was the fear that immigrants had to press for their labor rights, and the story hasn't changed much. I'm so happy to see there's a resolution later following this about fair wages for our working-class brother and sister immigrants. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 truly honored and humbled by this resolution, and it is true that work with immigrants and refugees is my passion, but retired advocates don't just fade away. We continue to work as volunteers and activists, especially when the current climate targets immigrants and refugees based on unfounded fear and xenophobia. Keeping Philadelphia a welcoming city has never been more important. I want to share very briefly four lessons I learned when I was privileged to be the Executive Director of HIAS Pennsylvania. I learned the real importance of religious freedom, because so many of the refugees and immigrants even that we provided legal and social services to fled religious persecution in their home countries, and it reminded me what an important value that is to be treasured. Policies like a refugee and Muslim ban that are so diametrically at odds with Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 be opposed, and I thank our City leadership who came to the airport on Saturday night and later on Sunday and those who wanted to come but couldn't to protect the refugees and immigrants who were caught in the executive ban. S. Armed Forces was a client of National HIAS, my national organization, and is now reunited with their family. I learned that immigrants and refugees contribute economically, culturally, professionally and, of course, financially to our City and nation. I've witnessed individuals who work two and three jobs to support their families, who have opened businesses and have revitalized neighborhoods. Look at West Philadelphia. Look at Northeast Philadelphia. Look at South Philadelphia, and hopefully one day look at my own community, Northwest Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 is, therefore, astounding, absolutely astounding, that high public officials perpetrate alternative facts that immigrants take jobs away from Americans, that they are criminals and that they will do harm to our country. I suppose immigrants are scapegoated to deflect attention from our real problems of poverty, unemployment, and public education. And now we have solutions to this program that was just described before us, and I am sure some immigrants, young people will join that program. I am thankful to live in a city where our government does not engage in this divisive rhetoric or practice this. I learned the critical importance of work of organizations, non-profits like HIAS Pennsylvania and there are others certainly in our city which provide legal, social, and support services to refugees and immigrants, working alongside community-based groups who are organizing for immigrant and Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 can't sugarcoat this last lesson, and, that is, the ultimate goal of many who campaign to deport undocumented immigrants and even strip citizenship from children born to immigrants is to target immigrants of color and stop all immigration.
It is alarming that today in high positions in the Department of Homeland Security and the executive branch there are individuals from the Federation for Immigration Reform and the Center for Immigration Study, these organizations seek to cut legal immigration to the United States by 70 percent. " But I've also learned that there's been an outpouring of support from the faith community and from the Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 the demonization of refugees and immigrants. And in my own community, Northwest Philadelphia, there's a lot of stirring, and we now have new community coalitions coming together to support immigrant and refugee rights. )
-- a family, my grandson is here, also lives in Philadelphia, who stood by my side as we weathered many new policy shifts and crises. I'm proud to have a wonderful and competent and diverse staff, including the current Executive Director, who is up here today, Cathryn Miller-Wilson, and half of our staff are refugees or former immigrants, and there's some sitting in the audience, and Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Board at HIAS Pennsylvania, some of whom are also up here today. Together with scores of volunteers, the organization has helped thousands of immigrants and refugees whose only goal is to integrate into the fabric of the great American mosaic. And even though I was born and raised in New York City -- and believe it or not, I shared a ride with a cab driver the other day who lived in the house I was born in in New York, but moved to Philadelphia, like I did -- I am so proud we have a City Council and a Mayor who stand with immigrants and refugees, and that is really the vital lesson. We may have come over on different boats, some by choice and some by force through our ancestors, but we're all in the same boat now. Thank you for helping us build a united Philadelphia. (Applause.)
Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you very much. And the next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Mr. Decker, would you please read those messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendations of the City Planning Commission on the following bills and proposed amendments: Bill Nos. 170262, 170263, 170264, 170265, 170266, 170282, 170285, 170287, 170306, 170309, 170310, 170311, 170331, 170333, and 170335, and a Philadelphia City Planning Commission approval of a Temple University Master Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 am pleased to advise you that on April 21, 2017, I signed the following bill which was passed by Council at its session on April 20, 2017: Bill No. 170263. And I am pleased to advise you that on April 26, 2017, I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on April 20, 2017: Bill Nos. 160808, 160999, and 161004. And I am submitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution approving the appointment of Michael Carroll to the Board of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority; and An ordinance amending Section 12-701 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Designation of Bicycle Lanes," by authorizing the Department of Streets to designate a buffered bicycle lane, in the eastbound direction, on Chestnut Street from South 45th Street to South 34th Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Street, and to remove a travel lane on Chestnut Street in the same limits; and An ordinance amending Section 17-2102 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Council Review of Contracts with Certain Entities," to restore the exemption from Council review provided in the Home Rule Charter for certain contracts between the City and the Support Center for Child Advocates; and An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to purchase two properties situate at 1620 South 49th Street and 4900 Grays Ferry Avenue, under and subject to the terms and conditions of the Philadelphia Industrial and Commercial Development Agreement between the City, PAID, and the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. Do you have any additional communications? Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
Thank you very much. Thank you, Mr. Decker. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Good morning, Mr. President. I offer one privileged and non-privileged resolution. The non-privileged resolution was supported by Councilmembers Gym, Domb, Greenlee, and Green. Thank you, Mr. President.
A privileged resolution recognizing May 10, 2017 as "50/50 Day" in the City of Philadelphia.
And that will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
And a non-privileged resolution calling on and urging The School District of Philadelphia to permanently prohibit the suspension of elementary-aged students from the first through fifth grades.
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. I thought I had four. Thank you, Mr. President. I have four bills today.
Sorry, Mr. President. We had four and seem to have three. So we'll pass it to you as soon as it reappears.
An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to purchase two properties situate at 1620 South 49th Street and 4900 Grays Ferry Avenue, under and subject to the terms and conditions of the Philadelphia Industrial and Commercial Development Agreement between the City, PAID, and the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation; and An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 40th Street, Girard Avenue, 34th Street, Mantua Avenue, 31st Street, Spring Garden Street, and Lancaster Avenue; and An ordinance amending Section 14-504 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "/NCO, Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District," by adding new areas entitled "Powelton Village Zone 1" and "Powelton Village Zone 2." Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
Those three bills just read by the Chief Clerk will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee. I'm sorry. You found it? Okay.
And an ordinance amending Section 12-701 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Designation of Bicycle Lanes," by authorizing the Department of Streets to designate a buffered bicycle lane, in the eastbound direction, on Chestnut Street from South 45th Street to South 34th Street, and to remove a travel lane on Chestnut Street in the same limits.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. That bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill on behalf of the Administration.
An ordinance amending Section 17-2102 of The Philadelphia, entitled "Council Review of Contracts with Certain Entities," to restore the exemption from Council review provided in the Home Rule Charter for certain contracts between the City and the Support Center for Child Advocates.
And that will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Council President. Today I offer one bill and one privileged resolution signed by most members of Council.
Thank you, Councilman. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
An ordinance to amend Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by revising certain provisions of Section 14-600, entitled "Use Regulations."
That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution recognizing and observing May 1 through May 5, 2017 as "Construction Safety Week" in the City of Philadelphia.
And that will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Mr. President, today I offer one bill, two privileged resolutions co-signed by three-fourth of members of Council.
An ordinance to Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Clearfield Street, Shedwick Street, Lippincott Street, and 34th Street.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the joint City Council Committees on Public Safety and Children and Youth to hold hearings reviewing the impact of flavored tobacco products, such as "Hood Wraps" or Four K's," on the youth of Philadelphia.
And a privileged resolution recognizing the month of April 2017 as "National Volunteer Month" to honor the dedicated service that volunteer workers provide to Philadelphia communities and across the country.
This Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 week's Final Passage Calendar. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Council President, I have one bill on your behalf and two non-privileged resolutions, and the two non-privileged resolutions are sponsored by myself and Councilman Curtis Jones.
A non-privileged resolution urging the Pennsylvania State Legislature to adopt Senate Bill 1134, which seeks to enhance conviction integrity in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania by ensuring access to post-conviction DNA testing.
And a non-privileged resolution urging the Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Pennsylvania Legislature to reject Senate Bill 383, which would permit school personnel to carry concealed firearms in schools.
And a non-privileged resolution approving the appointment of Michael Carroll to the Board of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority.
And that will be referred to committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution Recognizing, Honoring, and Celebrating the life and legacy of Awilda Ocasio for her dedication to the Latino community and renaming the 3000 block of F Street between Indiana and East Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Clearfield Street as "Paseo Awilda Ocasio."
And that will be on this week's Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill, and I wish to be acknowledged after the title is read.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," to prohibit medical marijuana dispensary locations within 500 feet of any day Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 care.
Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, I, along with I'm sure all members of our body, as evidenced by the legislation passed by this Council, wholeheartedly supported the Commonwealth's passage of Act 16 of 2016, which enabled medical marijuana in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In addition to that, this Council, recognizing the level of density in the City of Philadelphia, proactively sent a letter to the Department of Health and we asked them, Mr. President, to allow us to have a 500 foot radius away from all separation requirements that were included in the Commonwealth's language. And for the record, I want to note that in the letter that we asked for, we asked that schools, along with day care facilities, be included. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 When the Commonwealth issued its waiver in response to the Mayor's request, along with this Council's request, it gave us exactly what we asked for, and I will just read the line that says "having reviewed the information provided to it by the City of Philadelphia, the Department of Health approves the City of Philadelphia's request to amend the distance from 1,000 feet to 500 feet for dispensaries to be located within the City of Philadelphia. Therefore, for the City of Philadelphia, a dispensary may not be located within 500 feet of the property line of a public, private or parochial school or a day care center." So that was the state's waiver. In addition to that, I was proud when all members of this body, we joined together in unity to send our letter supporting this request that went to the Commonwealth. And the language of our actual letter, and when we're making our Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 ask of the Commonwealth, says, Council worked with the Kenney Administration in crafting a dispensary rule that requires a 500 foot setback from our existing regulated uses, schools and other areas that children might frequent, libraries, pools, day cares, parks and playgrounds, and this strikes a balance between access for patients and concern about the proximity to children in the spirit of the Medical Marijuana Act, and it makes sense for Philadelphia. Well, unfortunately, Mr. President and colleagues, a permit was issued for a dispensary to be located in an area that is within 500 feet of a day care in the Ninth Councilmanic District, and it is my hope that what I am viewing as a technical amendment, as it would put the bill that this Council passed in align with the waiver that the state gave to us and actually the response to the City Council of Philadelphia that we asked the Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Commonwealth for in writing. So I just wanted to clarify that for the record. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you, Councilwoman. And that will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Domb.
Good morning, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gym.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution today.
A privileged resolution recognizing and designating May 1 as International Workers' Day, in Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 perpetuity, as a day to honor and celebrate the manifold achievements of workers and the historical and continuing struggle of labor movements for justice and fair working conditions.
That will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Taubenberger.
Good morning, Council President and colleagues. I have no bills or resolutions today. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one non-privileged resolution and one bill.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Memphis Street, Oakdale Street, Tulip Street, Oakdale Street, Sepviva Street, and Lehigh Avenue.
That will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a privileged resolution celebrating the 20th anniversary of "Theatre Exile" and honoring the Joe Canuso -- and honoring Joe Canuso whom help found and develop Theatre Exile and continues to contribute to the Philadelphia cultural environment today. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
And that will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill and one non-privileged resolution.
An ordinance continuing the Mt. Airy Business Improvement District beyond its termination date, in an area that generally includes both side of Germantown Avenue from 6300 to 7631 and certain blocks of streets that intersect that portion of Germantown Avenue and for which the Mt. Airy Improvement District, Inc., a Pennsylvania non-profit corporation, is the Neighborhood Development District Management Association for the District. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
And a non-privileged resolution initiating action to continue the Mt. Airy Business Improvement District beyond its termination date in an area that generally includes both sides of Germantown Avenue from 6300 to 7631 and certain blocks of streets that intersect that portion of Germantown Avenue, for which Mt. Airy Improvement District, Inc., a Pennsylvania non-profit corporation, serves as the Neighborhood Improvement District Management Association for the District.
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.
Thank you very much, Council President. I offer two privileged resolutions co-sponsored by Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Councilmembers Squilla, Gym, Quinones-Sanchez, Taubenberger, Domb, and Reynolds Brown. Thank you.
A privileged resolution Recognizing and Celebrating the 2017 Philippine Independence Week Celebration from June 3rd to June 16th.
That will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution recognizing May 2017 as Asian American and Pacific Islanders Heritage Month in Philadelphia to celebrate and commemorate the proud heritage of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and their important contributions to enhancing the City's culture, economy, and the founding ideals of independence and democracy.
And that will also be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 of bills and resolutions. And if you all will bear with me for one second. (Pause.)
Thank you, Councilman. No speeches today. Thank you for recognizing me, Councilman. I'd like to ask for a leave of absence. I have Council business to attend to. I'd like to be recorded as voting aye on all bills, resolutions, and amendments.
Your leave is granted, and let the record reflect that Council President will be voting aye on all bills and resolutions. Thank you.
The next order of business will be the reports of the committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 from the Committee of the Whole.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Committee of the Whole reports five bills with a favorable recommendation -- five resolutions. I'm sorry. Five resolutions with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Will the Chief Clerk please read the report of the Committee of the Whole.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee of the Whole, to which was referred Resolution No. 170120, entitled a "Resolution reappointing Pat Lavelle to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District"; and Resolution No. 170121, entitled a "Resolution reappointing Timothy Snowden to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District"; and Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 170122, entitled a "Resolution appointing Danielle DelRe to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District"; and Resolution No. 170123, entitled a "Resolution appointing Patrick Shillenn to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District"; and Resolution No. 170124, entitled a "Resolution appointing Mary Hummel to the Board of Directors for the Old City Special Services District," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached resolutions to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. These resolutions will be placed on our Final Passage Calendar for next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee of Law and Government.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Committee on Law Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk, would you please read the report.
The Committee on Law and Government, to which was referred Bill No. 160010, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 2-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Recording of Deeds,' to provide for further action by the Department of Records in cases where the Department reasonably suspects that a deed has been mistakenly recorded and that a fraudulent transfer of the real property described therein has occurred"; and Bill No. 170243, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 1-100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Definitions, Construction, Penalties and Enforcement,' to authorize the Law Department to standardize the appearance, numbering and formatting of The Philadelphia Code Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 further Code amendment"; and Bill No. 170334, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 9-1100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Fair Practices Ordinance: Protections Against Unlawful Discrimination,' by adding a provision authorizing the Commission on Human Relations to order a respondent to cease operations as a remedial measure," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 160010, 170243, and 170334.
I need a second. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit the first reading of these bills, Bill No. 160010, 170243, and 170334. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and these bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee of Public Works and Public Property.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Committee on Public Property and Public Works reports five bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Would the Chief Clerk please Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
The Committee on Public Property and Public Works, to which was referred Bill No. 170108, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Director of the Free Library of Philadelphia and the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a sublease with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, tenant under a master lease with the landlord, for space in the building located at 1500 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia, to house the Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped"; and Bill No. 170139, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to enter into a sublease agreement with The Philadelphia Municipal Authority for use by the City of a portion of the premises located at 1500 John F. Kennedy Boulevard"; and Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 170142, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to enter into a sublease with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for the use by the City of the premises located at the Callowhill Center, 421 North 7th Street"; and Bill No. 170168, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for the use by the City of the premises located at 1101 Market Street"; and Bill No. 170309, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to acquire fee simple title or a lesser real estate interest to all or a portion of a parcel of land located in the area bounded by East Bristol Street, O Street, Leiper Street and the Frankford Creek," respectfully reports it has considered Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 170108, 170139, 170142, 170168, and 170309. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the first reading this day of Bill Nos. 170108, 170139, 170142, 170168, and 170309. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
Opposed? (No response.) Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 2ND READING
The ayes have it, and these bills will be placed on the First Reading Calendar today. Next will be the consideration of the Calendar. The next order -- I note that the bills just reported from committee with a suspension of the rules have been deemed to have been read on the first reading today. These bills will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for the next session of City Council. There being no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar today, the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee for the purpose of calling up resolutions and bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The following resolutions and bills are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 170369, 170370, 170379, 170381, 170382, 161003-A, 170245, Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 and 170110. All other resolutions and bills are being held.
Thank you, Councilman. Before considering these resolutions and bills, we will consider public comment as follows: Your public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today, today's Council for action. All speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already signed up for today's session, please do so by giving your name to the Sergeant-of-Arms at the table to my left. You will be called in the order as it appears on the sign-in sheet. You will have three minutes to speak. In order to be fair for all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold that faithfully to within the three-minute limit. So when you begin speaking, you will see the green light on the podium. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Then there will be 30 seconds remaining of your time, the light will turn yellow, in which you will be reminded to conclude your remarks. Once the three minutes have passed, a light will turn red and the Sergeant-of-Arms will disconnect the microphone. At that point we will yield the podium for our next speaker. I also reserve the right pursuant to the rules of Council to limit repetitious comments on the same subject matter. I ask the Chief Clerk, would you please read the name of our first speaker today.
Joe Danihel, commenting on 170370, 170369, and 170381. (Witness approached podium.)
Can I have my three minutes, Council President or Acting Council President, please. Can I have my three minutes.
Thank you. This is yet another official decree of writ of mandamus quo warranto and, as such, requires immediate action and remedy. This Council continues to transfer large quantities of private property through the RDA, Land Bank, and use the Sheriff to issue deeds, possibly without due process. Does rule of law, laws and constitutions, and your sworn duty mean nothing to you? PA Constitution, Article 1, Section 10, Nor shall private property be taken without just compensation being first made or secured. From 26 PA CSA 703, Fair market value is an amount which will be agreed to by the willing and informed buyer and seller. In addition, the delays in costs caused by the government are compensable by law. Yet I Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 have received no compensation. The City, Redevelopment Authority, Sheriff's Department, and numerous other agencies failed to obey the law before transferring my deed. Upon notification of this breach of constitutions and laws, you are required by oath to shut down agencies until breaches are repaired. The constitutions require immediate remedy of this breach of law. Your oath of office requires you to act or face prison. 42 USC 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1987, 18 USC 241, 242, 2381, 2384, PA Constitution, Article 1, Sections 1 through 11, 26 PA CSA 703, 705, 708, 709, 712, 713, 716, and other laws listed in SCOTUS 15-8965, 14-1330, 14-4056 appear violated. I call for the federal and Commonwealth governments to perform their constitutional obligations to investigate, prosecute all involved in the illegal deed transfer and theft of my Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 home, 1038 West Wyoming. The denial of God-given 42 USC 1982 property rights for 23 years is egregious, extraordinary, oath-violating, and requires immediate remedy. A just government must obey the rule of law. This color of law government must have its Charter to govern revoked until a constitutionally compliant government is installed. Public servants cannot refuse their sworn duty to act any more than a fireman can refuse to fight a fire. The sovereign people require constitution and laws be enforced. Jail is required for all who violate oath or law. It takes a lot of cooperation to create and allow monumental corruption.
Thank you. Clerk, would you please read the name of our next speaker.
Calvin O'Martinez, commenting on 170379. (Witness approached podium.) Stated Meeting April 27, 2017
Thank you. For the record, it's Calvin Okunoye. So good morning, City Council. My name is Calvin Okunoye and I live in Philadelphia. I am a former restaurant worker who has worked in the restaurant industry as a cook, as a chef for ten-plus years. I am currently the High Road Coordinator for the Restaurant Opportunities Center of Philadelphia -- or Pennsylvania. Excuse me. The Restaurant Opportunities Center is a national non-profit whose mission is to improve the wages and the working conditions of our nation's 12 million restaurant workers. I support this resolution because I care about my community. I care about the restaurant workers being treated as the professionals they are. ROC's Behind the Kitchen Door report found that 58 percent of workers reported not being paid overtime, close to 40 percent not receiving safety training, and almost 80 percent of workers not Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 receiving regular raises. To me, these facts mean two things. One, the local restaurant industry are in need of employers who are creating formal career ladders for their staff and workers who are advocating for their work. That is why I'm here in support of City Council's resolution recognizing every person's fundamental right to earn a living. I am particularly here to advocate for my immigrant family who I have turned tables with. Over half of our industry's workers are below the poverty line. That means poor, which means -- which can be demoralizing when the politics du jour also criminalizes your work. ROC Pennsylvania is here not only to recognize every person's right to make a wage, but that we all deserve a living wage. Our tipped workers, the people you see when you go in to eat, who also stand in solidarity with this Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 resolution, they know that immigrants are the lifeblood of the restaurant industry. Yet we know that restaurants are facing historical shortages because of anti-immigration rhetoric. That's why more and more of our servers are advocating for our immigrant community and other initiatives like One Fair Wage - One Fair Wage being a policy to end the legacy of slavery that is the tipped minimum wage or what some people call tips. In fact, if you are to step back and have a conversation at any dinner table with industry folk, if you sat in at a staff meal or if you shared a quick coffee with just the knife guy about Philadelphia's restaurant industry, you would most absolutely end up agreeing that the positive contributions of our City's immigrant population and the lack of protections they have and be really just kind of set back on the incoherent gap between the two. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 People who work and live in this industry all agree, all workers deserve to feel safe and dignified. So thank you guys for listening to the voices of restaurant workers who are unfortunately -- just remind you unfortunately are the lowest paid workers in America. We urge you to pass this resolution. Thank you.
Thank you for your testimony. Clerk, would you please read the name of our next speaker.
Maria Christina Martinez, commenting on 170379. (Witnesses approached podium.) MS. MARTINEZ (through interpreter): We are here today to call attention to our unjust system of work, with the intention of opening conversation and building solidarity to change the federal system that criminalizes undocumented immigrants' Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 labor. As a business owner of a Mexican restaurant, hiring people with the specific talents and experience to cook my food is illegal, and my people do not have the right to work. The passion, talent, culture, and intelligence that our immigrant community brings to the United States gives this country strength and hope. Unfortunately it's not enough to say that this is a broken system. Because a system which criminalizes labor that leaves workers vulnerable to exploitation is by design. We must look at this with clarity and fight for justice. We need to make the change. As a restaurant, we have a platform, and we will continue to use it to advocate for human rights. We want to take this resolution to pass in other cities, starting in New York on May 1st, the National Day of Action, a Day Without Immigrants. Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 We ask City Council to unanimously vote yes to this resolution today. Thank you.
Thank you for your testimony. Clerk, would you please read the name of our next speaker.
Estela Hernandez, commenting on 170379. (Witnesses approached podium.) MS. HERNANDEZ (through interpreter): Good morning. My name is Estela Hernandez and I'm a member of the New Sanctuary Movement of Philadelphia. I have been in the U.S. for 13 years, all here in Philly. I have three children, and I own a small business that employs 24 people in the City. Since we came to this country, my husband and I have worked cleaning supermarkets overnight. Four years ago we took the opportunity to open our own cleaning company. Since then our life Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 has improved significantly. Now I can dedicate more time to my family. We generate employment for immigrant workers and obviously we pay taxes. As a woman I am a worrier, and I fight to thrive in a country that too often does not feel like my own. The pain of being away from my family in the country where I was born is immense. It is difficult to not be by their side when something difficult happens and I want to hug them and support them. Being here is a sacrifice, and I make it to give my kids a better life and protect them from the violence in my country. I do not want my children to live in the poverty I lived. I want them to thrive, to have the education that they want and deserve. I raise my voice because there are so many people like me sustaining the City and this country. The current political situation is deporting people to violence and poverty and is Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 traumatizing our children. This country's economy exploits our work, yet we are denied basic rights. We generate employment. We make the food on your plates, the vegetables, the fruit. The bread that reaches your tables has probably gone through immigrant hands. It is our duty as a society to recognize the labor of each person and fight for economic justice, not just for immigrants but for all of us. We know that the poverty that people of the United States experience is connected to the poverty in their birth countries. It is a global problem that goes beyond work and will require a long fight in unity. I applaud Philadelphia for being at the forefront of the fight for migrant justice in this country. We, grassroots community organizations, have been working for justice in our city for a long time, and we are proud that we have won support from our local government. We applaud today's City Stated Meeting April 27, 2017 Council and encourage it to act on good values. Today I am here proud of not just our daily work for economic sustenance, but also for our daily work for justice. Thank you.
Thank you for your testimony. Clerk, would you please read the name of our next speaker.