COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania December 19, 2024 10:25 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILMAN CURTIS J. JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY M. LOZADA COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, INTERIM CHIEF CLERK
To all the spectators in the balcony, if you would like to participate in this Council hearing, I am asking you to please tone it down. (Background interruption.)
All the spectators in the balcony, if you will be participating in this Council session, I'm asking you to please bring it down. (Background interruption.)
This meeting has now come to order. I just want to say for the record if you do not allow us to proceed, you will be removed from this Council session. I just want to say it again for the not allow us to proceed, you will be removed from this Council session. This meeting has now come to order. (Background interruption.)
We're asking for all attendees to please quiet down so we can conduct our Council session. We're asking for all attendees to please quiet down so we can conduct the Council session. (Background interruption.)
For the record, we're asking for all attendees to please quiet down so we can continue our Council session. We're asking for everyone to please quiet down so we can conduct the Council session. (Background interruption.)
We ask for everyone to please quiet down so we can conduct our Council session. I have to give fair warning. If you do not quiet down, you will be removed for disrupting the Council session. I just want to say for the record if you do not quiet down and you're disrupting the Council session, you will be removed. (Background interruption.)
We're asking for all attendees please quiet down as we conduct our Council session. I note that the hour has come and a quorum is present. This Council session is now coming to order. (Background interruption.)
All right. Listen up, y'all. Can you quiet down for a second? Could we respect the pastor please. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Pastor Corey Johnson. (Background interruption.)
Let's quiet it down, y'all. Listen up, y'all. Listen up. We understand there's a lot of energy going on today pro and con the Sixers proposal. Can we respect the Pastor as he gives invocation to start this Council session?
The Chair recognizes Pastor Corey Johnson, Pastor of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church. (Background interruption.)
One second, Pastor. Listen up, listen up. Hey, Sheriffs, hold up for a second, Sheriffs. Hey, Sheriff's team, hold up for a second. Hey, listen up. (Background interruption.)
To the organizers of the Save the Arena Coalition, I don't have a problem with y'all being in here doing this legislative process. All we're asking you to do, rather you for or against, is just respect the process. (Background interruption.)
Other than that, they got to go. Now, we're trying to be respectful. Listen up, listen up. We don't have no problem with you staying in here. (Background interruption.)
All right. Let's bring it down. Sheriffs, give me a -respect the Pastor real quick. Let's see if they respect the Pastor. Let the Pastor do his prayer. Pastor Johnson, go ahead, sir.
Let us pray. Almighty God, the creator of all, we come before you with gratitude, for the privilege of gathering to serve this great city of Philadelphia as we convene for this final City Council meeting, the year we invite your presence to guide us in our deliberations and decisions. We thank you for our individual voices, for the liberty of conscience, the courage of our convictions, the freedom to disagree and dissent. We thank you for these demonstrations of democracy and action. We pray for wisdom for every leader seated here, that their minds and hearts may be attuned to your will and the needs of the people they serve may they lead with integrity, fairness justice. God of equity, we lift up our city's pursuit of true equality. Help us to tear down barriers that divide and to build bridges that unite. Let the policies crafted and enacted here reflect your heart for justice and compassion. We ask for your provision for those who are struggling economically. May this Council's decisions create opportunities for flourishing and prosperity for every resident, especially those who have been historically overlooked and marginalized. God of compassion, remind us of your call to care for the least of these May the work done here prioritize those who are the most vulnerable, our children, our seniors, our neighbors experiencing homelessness, the hungry and the poor. Finally, Lord, bless this Council and all who labor for the good of the city of Philadelphia. Strengthen them to remain steadfast in their calling and united in their shared purpose. As we close this chapter and look forward to what lies ahead, may this city reflect your vision of justice, peace and hope. While, Lord, there may not be uniformity on all things, may there be unity in all things. In your name we pray, Amen. (Amen.)
One second before Council is at ease, before Council is at ease. We do recognize that there's a lot of passion on both sides of this issue, right. There will be a that's before us. All I'm asking -- we're not trying to have people getting kicked out. We're not trying to have people being arrested. So all we're asking, right, is allow us to conduct the business of our Council of this legislative body. When the vote come up, you can boo, you can yell, you can say, hey, I'm happy, right. All we're asking -- we're not trying to get people kicked out. We're not trying to get people arrested, but all we're asking, rather if you're on the balcony or sitting inside the stands, we've been through this process, rather you support us or not, rather you support the vote or not, but we've had eight hearings, eight hearings on this particular topic. And some people okay, right. That's not going to stop the vote today, to be quite frank with you, right. But we're asking to respect this legislative process, we will continue to work on addressing the issues that those feel that need to be addressed, rather that's Chinatown or the surrounding communities that's being impacted by this particular proposal being put before for us. But me and my team, this legislative body, have done our due diligence to be supportive of this process, rather those who are supporting as well as those who are very passionate that are against this proposal. But you cannot say we haven't given people the opportunity to express themselves. So all we're saying on this last legislative Council us to conduct our business. I don't want to see people getting arrested. I don't want to see people getting kicked out of here, but we do have a right to conduct our business that's here in this body. Those who represent you that's against this project, those who represent you that's for this project, they will speak on your behalf as representatives in this body. That's why you sent them here and that's what they're responsible for doing why they're in this legislative process. So all we're asking is just respect our process and let us continue our business. That's all I'm asking. I don't want the Sheriffs kicking people out. But in the event that you continue to disrupt, then we're going to do do, and that's not our intention. That's not our intention. We've sat from 6:00 to 9:00 on several different nights allowing more than 100-plus people come down here and express their opposition and support for this particular proposal, eight particular hearings. And you have representatives that you sent here that have advocated on your behalf regarding this proposal. Some of things are in the final CBA, right. Rather you agree with them or not, no one can say we didn't listen to your issues and/or concerns. And so, all I'm asking respectfully I do not want the Sheriffs or the Philadelphia Police Department to put people out. But all I'm asking is respect the legislative process. vote comes, when the speeches come, you could yell, say, yea, I'm supportive, boo, we hate it. But all we're asking respectfully just let allow us to go through this legislative process. We understand this is a very, very tense process. We do recognize that, right. All of us recognize that and we do not take this vote lightly. So with that being said, Council will be at ease. Pastor Corey Johnson, you will now be addressed by members of City Council. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, December 12, 2024. The Chair recognizes Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, December 12, 2024 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, December 12, 2024 stand approved. All those in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is the request for leaves Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
Thank you, Council President. On behalf of the Minority, there no requests for leaves of absence today.
The Chair thanks the Majority Leader and the Minority Leader. The Chair now recognizes Councilmember Katherine Gilmore a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's legislative Council and that were not listed on the Calendar circulated prior to today's Council session.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that any of the following matters, if considered today, may be added to the agenda for this session of Council and, as required by law, subsequently published on an amended agenda after the consideration of those matters: resolutions authorizing hearings, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration of a bill vetoed by or re-called from the Mayor, amendments to bills re-called from the Mayor, substantive action to be voted on in this session, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar and a motion placing a bill or resolution on or returning a bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public with notice concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to be included on the Calendar that was published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Councilmember Gilmore Richardson may be added to the agenda for those matters arise during the course of this session of Council. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in this Council chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our great you to come again. As there are no presentations today, the next order of business is communications. The Chair recognizes that the Sergeantat-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Would the Chief Clerk please read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications in her possession.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on December 18, 2024 I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on December 5, 2024: Bill Nos. 240242, 240613-AA, 240664, 240876, 240877, 240878, 240879, 240880, 240881, 241026, 241027, 241028 and 241030. There are no further communications in my possession, Council President.
Thank you very much, Chief Clerk. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The next introduction of bills and resolutions is our next order of business. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Phillips. (No response.)
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson.
Thank you, Council President. Today I offer one non-privileged resolution on your behalf.
Thank you very much, Majority Leader Richardson. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the non-privileged resolution.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1212 South 17th Street; 1317 and 1511 South 20th Street; 1904 South 23rd Street; 1216 South 31st Street; 1911 Gerritt Street, 1932 and 2044 Titan Street located in the 2nd Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.
The Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas. (Background interruption.)
Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Good morning to the public. Nothing today. Thank you, Council President. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones. (Background interruption.)
I'm just going to ask -I also remember there's a public comment portion as well where those who are for or against the proposal before us today will have the opportunity to express if they are for or against this proposal. Please refrain from any types of, you know, boos and yeas. Just let us get through this process and you will have public comment as well as that opportunity when we call that vote please. The Chair recognizes -will the Clerk please read the title of the bill please.
A privileged resolution honoring and recognizing Craig Williams for his invaluable contributions to the Philadelphia Streetlight Improvement Project, championed by the Philadelphia Energy Authority, and his exemplary leadership in advancing both the economic and social well-being of Philadelphia.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Rue Landau.
Good morning, Council President and colleagues and the public. I want to take one second to recognize my niece Zara Orit, who is here today to watch democracy in action. (Applause.)
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.
Thank you, Council President. No bills and resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Kendra Brooks.
Thank you, Council President. I have three privileged resolutions to introduce today.
Thank you very much. Will the Clerk please read the titles of the privileged resolutions. Okay. We'll come back. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution for the day. (Background interruption.)
Time, time. So just a little bit to quorum now, we're trying to make this -- now we can make it even because there are supporters who could get up and be like yea. I don't want to feel like going through all that. Let's keep it moving. So, Member Harrity, privileged resolution?
Could the Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution please.
A privileged resolution proclaiming January 13, 2025 as Korean American Day in Philadelphia to celebrate and commemorate the proud heritage of Korean Americans and their invaluable contributions to enhance the City's culture, economy and the founding ideals of independence and democracy.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Rourke.
Good morning, Mr. President. I appreciate the cheers and the jeers, my brothers. Mr. President, I do have one -
Yes, sir. I do have one privileged resolution to introduce. Thank you so much.
You're welcome, sir. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution recognizing December 21st 2024 as Homeles Persons' Memorial Day in the City of Philadelphia, acknowledging the lives of all unhoused people we have lost over the past year and bringing attention to housing insecurity across the city.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from South Philadelphia, Councilmember Squilla. (Background interruption.)
All right, y'all. Okay. We got it out. All right. Let's pipe down some, y'all. All right.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution.
Will the Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution honoring the life and legacy of iconic DJ Gary O, a beloved Philadelphia music legend who graced the airwaves of the community for decades.
I will ask before we commit this resolution to be placed on the Calendar a standing moment of silence honoring the life and legacy of DJ Gary O. (Standing moment of silence.)
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes City Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.
Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution. (Background interruption.)
Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Public Health and Human Services to hold a hearing on the prevalence of vaping among children and the effectiveness of current enforcement efforts.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of Councilmember Brooks' resolutions.
A privileged resolution honoring the life and legacy of legendary poet, professor, activist and revolutionary Nikki Giovanni on the occasion of her passing.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Legislative Oversight to hold a hearing concerning the deaths of individuals incarcerated in Philadelphia correctional facilities in recent weeks, including Amanda Cahill, Michael McKinnis and Joseph Gabor, and evaluating the changes that are needed to prevent further tragedies.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on People with Disabilities and Special Needs to hold a hearing regarding the state of accessibility in the City of Philadelphia, including ensuring the celebratory events that will be held in Philadelphia in 2026 are maximally accessible to every person in the city.
This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage 2ND READING Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Phillips.
Thank you, Council President. There's no bills or resolutions for introduction today. Good morning, everyone.
Good morning. Being there are no reports from committees today, we will now go into the consideration of the Calendar. The next order of business is consideration of our Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember and Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars. COUNCILWOMAN GILMORE 2ND READING RICHARDSON: Thank you, Mr. President. The following bills and resolutions are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 240834-A, 241134, 241137, 241142, 240963, 240964-A, 240966, 240967, 240968, 240969, 240970, 240971, 240972, 240973, 241062-A, 241084, 240817, 241022, 241023 and 240304. The following resolutions on the Calendar are being held: 240724, 241097, 241098, 241099, 240427 and 240665. 240304 will be amended.
Thank you. Before considering the 2ND READING bills and resolutions, we will consider public comment as follows: Your public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for possible action at today's session of Council. All speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already signed up for today's session, please do so now by giving your name to Ms. Hasson from South Philly at the table outside the rails to my left. Once you have signed up, you will be called in the order in which your name appears on the sign-up sheet. Under ideal circumstances, public commenters will each have three minutes to speak. However, this time limit may vary from session-to-session. Due to our extremely long list today, time limit will be one minute. In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the one-minute limit. When you begin speaking, you will see a green light on the podium when there are 30 seconds remaining to your time. The light will turn yellow which is your reminder to conclude your remarks. Once one minute has passed, the light will turn red and the Sergeant-at-Arms will disconnect the microphone. At that point, please yield the podium to the next speaker if you have not done so already. I also reserve the right pursuant to our rules of Council to limit repetitious comments on the same subject matter. And pretty much the whole list is the same subject matter, which we allow individuals to speak on. I would now ask the Chief Clerk to please read the name of our first speaker.
We have Pastor Carl Day. May Daisy Cruz, Felicia Wilson, Aminah Perez, Teila Allmond and Elaine McGuire also make their way to the podium. Pastor Carl Day, Daisy Cruz, Felicia Wilson, Aminah Perez, Teila Allmond and Elaine McGuire. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Please state your name for the record and you could begin.
Pastor Carl Day. For the record, Council Pres, I'm from North Philly. All right. But I'm in support of this move for various reasons, but the biggest reason is opportunity. Y'all, 12 shooting incidents this past weekend five teenagers -
And I know you're from North Philly. I never acknowledged that you weren't. Go ahead, sir.
Okay. But five teenagers shot this past weekend, three 14-year-olds, obviously we know right outside this building, so we need opportunity. The preservation of human life should supersede anybody's personal agendas. These young men need opportunities, so let's remind ourselves 14-year-olds. We're talking about a move that will take place and launched in 2031, they'll be 20, 21 years old. This is their city. So when we sit here and talk public safety, we need this area to be safe. We need these young men to have opportunities, so I'm pro opportunity. And I thank y'all for who will vote for this opportunity for these young men. We cannot deprive them of opportunities. We cannot continue to make sure that these Black young men don't have a chance in Philadelphia. So again, y'all, we can fearmonger folks into what potentially can happen, but I know what's happening right now. People are dying, people are robbing, people are sitting here needing what people consider small jobs or transition jobs, so we can't downplay opportunity. And I work hard with these young men on a day-to-day. I'm shutting up though. Thank you.
Daisy Cruz with SEIU 32BJ. We represent over 20,000 members here in Pennsylvania but about 10,000 to 12,000 of them actually work in Center City. They're the cleaners, they're the security officers. They're the maintenance who take care of these beautiful buildings that these billionaires have actually built, but we're doing the work every day. We are in support of the arena because we want to make sure that this arena make sure that continues to protect jobs, create jobs. Our members are seeing Center City being changed, buildings shutting down, people losing jobs, so we want to make sure that this arena is built so that these our members who are from Philadelphia, people of color, people who actually live here raising their families here, we want to make sure that this stadium is built. We have never been on the other side. Listen, Chinatown, we hear you, we're with you and we understand because everything needs to be protected at the same time, but these people need to make sure that they're taking care of their families. I thank you for the opportunity. Thank you for building the arena. REVEREND McGUIRE: Hello, City Council President, City Councilmembers. I am Reverend Elaine McGuire. I am also an IBEW 98 member. This arena will be a gamechanger for the city of Philadelphia. That's right. Right now in the spot where the arena will go in, what's there now? Nothing. What is it generating? Nothing. (Background interruption.) REVEREND McGUIRE: Hold on. Let's show some respect. Please show some respect. Time to change the game. Philly is a sports fan city. Philadelphia is a union city. It's time to change the game. 28 out of 31 cities have arenas downtown. Philly will have a $1.3 billion arena, $700 million new tax revenue. What will it generate? Jobs. It will generate jobs, construction jobs. It will generate, operational jobs, thousands of jobs. What will it generate? Economy, growth. What will it generate? It will generate so many places for our city. We don't even know -they don't talk about the good that 76ers do. What about all of the projects that 76 Place do? They have autism, inclusion. They have 76 Youth Foundation. They have kids clubs and camps, Black History Month. They have minority work. They have mentorship. You got to build the arena. Vote yes.
One second, Liz. One second, Chief Clerk. Just real quick, while individuals are doing public comment rather you're for or against, could we just respect the person on the microphone. That's all I'm asking, because when people get up there that's opposing it, it could be encouraged for the other side to speak while they're speaking. So all I'm asking let's just let the people speak for or against and just refrain from any type of disparaging them or overtalking them while they're trying to give their comments, pro or con. That's all we're asking respectfully. Chief Clerk, please proceed.
We have Felicia Wilson, Aminah Perez, Teila Allmond. May Jeremy Blatstein, Kate Perez, Selena Sech, Kathleen McGettigan and Lauren Tarico also make their way to the podium. Jeremy Blatstein, Kate Perez, Selena Sech, Kathleen McGettigan, Lauren Tarico. We also have a Will McKeethan, Erica Cobustos, Sherrie Cohen and Lynn Major. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Hello, Philadelphia City Council. Good job, Council President Johnson. Starting right on time. I really like that today. Thank you for that. My name is Jeremy Blatstein. This Sixers arena is a gamechanger for Philadelphia. It's a $1.3 billion private investment. It will be the catalyst for Market Street and it's on top of a public transportation Hub, because we're going to talk about everyone's favorite thing, SEPTA. This morning, this morning me and the good Gracious Councilman Jones caught the G bus down to the Market-Frankford Line. We were looking fly on SEPTA today. So shout-out to Councilman Jones. And for the -- so raise your hand if you rode SEPTA to City Hall this morning? Councilman Jones, raise your hand. 1 out of 17. Hey, thank you very much. And, Councilman Johnson, in the new year you owe it to me but hey -- or not owe. I request your riding with me. Hey, ride to City Hall. Thank you very much.
Hey, Jeffrey Young. I mean, he said he was fly on SEPTA. I mean -
Hello. My name is Erica Cobustos. I run the youth programs at Philly Thrive. Council President Johnson, I know you know us very well. I know you know our programs very well. I would say good morning, but I don't think it's a good morning any time we see people brutalized by any kind of policing. I think everyone can agree on that. I also think that if we are talking about arena I 1,000 percent agree as someone who works with youth let's talk about that, right, how is it pro youth if we take money away from schools, how is it pro youth if we take money away from SEPTA, how is it pro youth if we take away safe spaces in Chinatown. How is it pro youth if we have the youth come up here, state their voices and then you look at them and say I do not care. And you know what, all those youth will become voters. So let's all keep that in mind as well. If youth are the future, then you better start listening. I will also say that if we were to create and protect youth, slamming them against plexiglass is not that way. How must it feel to be on the side that is pro that. Let's think about that tonight when we go to sleep. (Applause.)
We had Sherrie Cohen, Lynn Major. (Background interruption.)
Sherrie Cohen, Lynn Major, Queen Judith Robinson, Kathy DiSanto, Jethro Heiko, Gary Lee, Paul Brown.
Time-out, time-out, time out. I'm just asking for everybody on both sides of the balcony you even can't hear your own supporters come to the microphone because everybody up there talking and in the gallery down here. And so, I'm going to ask you one more time. If not, we're going to ask you to step outside. Will the Clerk please call the next person.
Sherrie Cohen, Lynn Major, Queen Judith Robinson, Kathy DiSanto, Jethro Heiko, Gary Lee, Paul Brown, please make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Hi. My name is Paul Brown. I'm a school psychologist at Roxborough High School and I'm a member of the Teachers Union of Philadelphia. I'm here to oppose the arena in Center City. For those that are choosing to vote yes for this deal do you not realize after this vote you have to explain personally why you settled for less when you were in a position to demand more? Do you not see the confrontation you are inviting for yourself? The School District of Philadelphia is in the process of potentially closing and consolidating schools because we don't have the money to keep them open or renovations, but you're in the prime opportunity right now to demand something better that doesn't displace people, that doesn't harm people, but you just want to rush through a deal that gives them less. Some of my kids can't read, and it's very important to highlight this because talking about increasing job, but y'all are not talking about how recruiting is low because the applicants don't have the basic skills to read or get the job or keep the job because of poor education. Councilmembers, this deal abandons the people of Philadelphia. I strongly encourage you all to reject this arena deal. Keep it in South Philly, demand more for the Sixers. Truly think about how this could impact residents of Philadelphia. If you do it right, this vote will only -if you vote for this, you're -(Applause.) MS. DiSANTO: My name is Katie DiSanto. I go by KD. A lot of you have seen me here before. I work in Chinatown and I have very grave concerns about this development. Of course we want everybody to have good jobs. I don't know why we need to push out our jobs at small businesses and local cultural centers in order to make those new jobs happen. Once we're pushed out, nobody's coming to replace us. Small businesses hold up the economy of the entire Center City area and we need more support from the City now and in the future. If you build an arena there, we will get pushed out. There will be shuttered storefronts. It'll spread to Chestnut. It'll spread to Walnut. It'll spread to Callowhill. It might be exciting for everybody for a few years to have these new construction jobs, but eventually when those dry up all we're going to be left with is a shell of a building that's going to wind up pushing out people who have been there for generations. This is a terrible idea and it was very disingenuous to open this with a prayer because I think anybody who's read the Bible knows that Jesus would not support a bunch of billionaires coming in here to take over our neighborhood. Thank you. (Applause.)
May Layla Bibi also make their way to the podium. Layla Bibi, then David Qu, Kenny Chin, Rupal Kathan and Sam Yun also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Good morning, Councilmembers. My name is Layla Bibi and I am a union carpenter. I am here to give comment in support of 76 Place. You know, there's a lot of things that I can say. There's a lot of points I can make as well, as I'm sure the opposition. But one thing I want to point out is that our city is in crisis and I've heard people speak about the youth and the opportunity that this project will provide, And it's not only opportunity for a construction job. It's opportunity for a sustainable future. Someone has the opportunity to get on this project and it can be the start of financial freedom, the start of a new life. When someone has to get up to work in the morning and have to go to work early, they're not standing out hanging on the corners late at night. When they have to go to work and they have to provide for their children, they're not out riding around and committing crimes. When someone has been able to take pride in their street, in their neighborhood, in their block, in their house, they don't have time to hang out on the corners. Thank you. (Applause.)
We have Dave Qu, Kenny Chin, Rupal Kathan, Sam Yun, Cindy Nguyen, Sadie Butcher, Richard Chang, Alexander Alton, Stephanie Watts and Marta Guttenberg. (No response.)
Kelsey Leon, Sade (inaudible), Tina Ye, Andrew Posniter, Paul Birdsong, Wick Savage, Ellen Huang, Kenneth MacBain. (Witnesses approached podium.)
My name is Paul Birdsong. I'm here on behalf of the Panther Party now. Speaking in reference to every agenda regarding the building of the 76ers arena in Center City on East Market, it's absolutely true that Philadelphia needs commerce and jobs and direction. But as severely, if not more severely, Philadelphia needs permanent impactful solutions to the overabundance of bullets flying through the city, the overabundance of unsolved murders that's increasing regularly. 24 people shot in one weekend. How can we ensure that people won't become gunshot victims on their way to work at the arena? How can we ensure that people won't along with their families and their children become gunshot victims on their way to and from games and events at the arena? Would the arena in a sense become a (inaudible) stage or a staging ground for shooters to have easy targets? We're bringing more people and more money into the situation but not more safety. I don't hear nobody talking about a forensics lab that works or the LED lights in the hood or the cameras or triangulation microphones or anything like that. All I hear about is bring more money, bring more people, but not protect the people that are already here. All power to the people. Focus on the people. (Applause.)
Good morning, Councilmembers and visitors. First, I want to say I came from a family of respect. When people are speaking, give them the right to get their opinion across. So if anybody got anything to say while you're on my time, say it now. But one thing I am for, 110 percent for the 76ers. There's no doubt who I am for. All I'm going to say is this is an opportunity for the city of Philadelphia to not only be the fifth largest city but a first class city. Everybody runs to New York. Everybody runs to Washington, D.C. We need people coming here to enjoy themselves. And if you can't enjoy yourself in Downtown Philadelphia, this city has something for you. Thank you. (Applause.)
Hello. My name is Selena Sech -COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: Pull that microphone down.
My name is Selena Sech. I'm a recent graduate from Central High School and I'm also a current first year undergraduate student at Bryn Mawr College. I'm here representing Students against the Sixers Arena Students for the Preservation of Chinatown and the Ginger Art Center. First of all, I would like to thank Councilmembers Kendra Brooks, Nicolas O'Rourke, Rue Landau, Jamie Gauthier and Jeffrey Young for standing against the arena. Thank you for fighting for and with the people of Philadelphia. To start I was born in Philly and I've lived here for my entire life. As a young person, I've experienced firsthand what it was like to grow up attending public schools in the Philadelphia School District. Our schools lack air-conditioning, libraries, healthy lunches, extra-curricular activities, afterschool programs and more. Pushing for the arena would mean diverting funds that could be used to address these issues and choosing to perpetuate educational disparities disproportionately felt by Philadelphia's communities of color. Instead City Council would rather give the billionaire owners of 76 Place tax break, billionaires that made their living by exploiting low-income communities all around the world and helping to feel the global housing crisis. By voting for this arena, you are failing the youth of Philadelphia and I hope you remember that this is a legacy that we're going to remember. (Applause.)
Good morning, City Councilmembers. My name is Kelsey Leon. I am a harm reductionist with Community Action Relief Project. I came here today to support Councilmember Brooks' resolution calling for hearings to investigate deaths in prisons and jails. I would like to cede my time to Leslie Gabor who is the sister of Joey Gabor who passed away in prison last week.
My brother was a loved one. He was my brother. He was a son. He was an uncle. He was a grandson and all we know is we have no answers. He walked into the PDU last Wednesday and he never came out and we want to know why. Why, why did he never come out, why. I have so much more to say and I want answers and I will not stop. Do you see my face? I will not stop until I have answers. I swear to you this is my first and it won't be my last. We want answers. We want justice for Joey. Get that in your heads.
Councilmember Jones -John, could you get her information and find out what's going on.
One second. Councilmember Jones, as Chair of Public Safety, could your team follow up and work with John Christmas regarding this particular issue please?
My name is Jena Osman. I live in Washington Square West. We've all heard how 40 percent of attendees must take public transit for the Arena project to work. That 40 percent is an assumption built on the example of Madison Square Garden and the Barclay Center, not a realistic comparison. But let's pretend it's possible. For 40 percent to use public transit, all rail lines need to be staffed, run trains every 30 minutes at night and Jefferson Station needs to be staffed and safe. But no one is going to pay for it, not the Sixers, not SEPTA, not the City. And judging from past experience not the state legislature, but we know who will pay for it, us. Fares will go up, services will be cut so that suburbanites have the choice not to drive to 76 Place. Meanwhile SEPTA estimates it will lose 3.6 million riders per year during construction due to delays. I visited every one of your offices last week and asked what the SEPTA plan was and there is no plan, and yet the majority of you are about to vote yes without a plan. A vote for this project today is a vote against affordable public transit, against clean and green, against Vision Zero and against the people of this city. We won't forget it. (Applause.)
I'm Kate Perez. Right now our government is bombing Syria and yesterday Israeli forces shot into the Kamal Adwan Hospital, set fire to the last standing ICU and destroyed the electricity and water source for more than $65,000 refugees living inside of the hospital. Our sister city has violated the Lebanese ceasefire agreement 248 times in just four weeks. In addition to its assaults on Syria, Iran and illegallyoccupied Palestinian territories, (inaudible) filed a lawsuit accusing the Department of State of violating the Leahy laws and highlighting the human rights violations of torture (inaudible) disappearances and targeting civilians. We have a legal obligation to shut down businesses in our city that betray federal policies and sell tank shells to an occupation. 200,000 human beings have been annihilated by Israel, one child every four speakers, paid for by the money that should have kept our schools open. This is our genocide in service of apartheid. Let the record show a plane with the Palestinian flag is flying above City Hall right now. At the same time Israel has denied another United Nations request to deliver aid into the north of Gaza, with more than 70 days of complete blockade, forcing famine and leaving urgent medical cases to die in the street. Israeli forces are bombing families in the UNRWA School in Beit Hanoun and they rounded up their fathers and burned them alive in the schoolyard. We have three businesses in our city that sell to the Occupation. Arms embargo now. Free Palestine.
We have Ellen Huang, Kenneth McBain, Caitlyn Ghee, Maria Camilero, Mary Ye and Shirley Yang, make their way to the podium. Ellen Huang, Kenneth McBain, Caitlyn Ghee, Maria Camilero, Mary Ye, Shirley Yang and Min (inaudible), make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Good morning. My name is Mary Ye. I'm from the Save Chinatown Coalition. I'm here to ask Council to delay the vote on the Arena legislation 240963. I want to impress upon you that this Arena project is predicated on one important fact, which is not a fact that is the modal split that the 76ers say will happen with 40 percent of fans driving to Center City and 40 percent taking SEPTA. There's no evidence that this is something that will happen. In fact, if there are more than 40 percent of people driving, there will be gridlock in Center City and all the implications of that for public safety. I also want to say that the arena will only be occupied less than half the year and how is that going to revitalize East Market. There'll be less people here than there are now from the Fashion District, fewer employees, fewer people walking the streets, basically fewer business and dead space. (Applause.)
My name is Caitlyn Ghee. My poo-poo and my deceased gong-gong, they lived in New York's Chinatown. Even though they were both aging, we hesitated to ask them to move in with my mom or move them to a retirement community. Why? Chinatown was their home. We can't imagine them living a happy life anywhere besides a Chinatown. They spoke a local dialect. They were not Mandarin. You couldn't just put them in any like secondary Asian community and expect them to be happy. Chinatown was one of the few places where they could communicate with others in their native tongue. The new arena may be the Sixers home for 41 days out of the year maybe 50 years maximum, but Philadelphia's Chinatown has been home to thousands of people for over 150 years. By building an arena in Chinatown, City Hall is saying that it's okay to eradicate communities all in the name of capitalism. (Applause.)
My name is Maria Camilero. I oppose Bill No. 240963. I've lived in West Philly, District 3 for nearly 20 years. My child is in fourth grade at FACTS in Chinatown. I'm with Philly Parents Against the Arena. Our petition that we presented now has over 700 signatures, representing kids from 50 schools from all 10 Council Districts, over 50 schools. We represent families who attend schools and neighborhoods that would be directly impacted and throughout the entire city. Hundreds of us are public school parents. Several Philly District schools are in danger of closure and many need repairs. It is irresponsible for our City to allow what amounts to a billion dollar tax break to three billionaires who do not live in Philadelphia. The $10 million increase to the $50 million so-called community benefits agreement is an insult when we know that these developers intend to make billions of dollars off of Center City. (Applause.)
Good morning. My name is Aminah Perez and I am a female Black developer in the city of Philadelphia -
One second, one second. Could y'all quiet it down. Respect the person that's on the microphone please. Go ahead. Please begin.
My name is Aminah Perez and I'm a Black female developer in the city, my partner Felicia Wilson and I, I have her son here with me, operate several restaurants, namely Aminah's throughout the city of Philadelphia and we want the city to know that we are extremely excited about the project. It's about time that our voices are heard. I hear this number 70 percent of the city does not agree with the project, but I know that that mathematically is impossible when 68 percent of the city look like me and we're ready, it's our time. We are ready to scale up our businesses. My nephew Mustafa, a graduate in engineering from the University of Pennsylvania, we're ready. We want to scale up. We have other things to offer than just operating a stand outside. We can be part of the engineering, part of the building. This is a 10-year project, $1.3 billion. It brings economic opportunity. So many times we're not able to show up. We are the majority, the silent majority. We have children. We have to do things for our kids after school. We have to take off work. We can't stand outside for three hours in a line, but we are present today. We do want this arena and it provides boundless opportunities for ourselves and our family to create generational wealth for once. Thank you. (Applause.)
In the spirit of former president of this body Anna Verna, I wrote you a letter today. The letter is dated from 2006. I started speaking to this body before that time. I'm talking about today procedure, procedure. In all the years that I have spoken in this body never once were we given one minute to speak. The top of her letter talks about how she encourages me, that's why I come. I am encouraged when I show up for work every day and find citizens such as yourself, and that means all the rest of you all, who are interested in the day-to-day operations of our government. I will do my best to answer your questions. So I just want to bring that before you as a Black woman because the first woman who ran this City Council as president was very open, very elegant and allowed people to speak. Not only did she allow the people to speak, but she heard us loud and clear. In that regard, thank you very much and have a great holiday everybody. (Applause.)
Happy holiday. Clerk, please call the next speaker.
We have Jena Osman, Chantay Love, David Alexander Jenkins, Maria Frizelle Roberts, Patricia Sanford and Katherine Hicks. (Witnesses approached podium.)
All right. I'm Jethro Heiko speaking in opposition to all of the bills that are coming for the Council today. I first wanted to put on the record, make sure the record gets it, an objection under the Sunshine Act. There was many violations today. The ability to access the space. The many speakers had to leave. We were prevented from accessing the building, waiting in line for three hours. It was clearly anticipated there'd be a large turnout and the City Council did not prepare for it. This arena is bad for the city for a number of reasons. As the lead organizer in the successful efforts to stop the demolition of Fenway Park, a fiveyear campaign in Boston, which I led before moving to Philadelphia, I know how bad arenas are and ballparks are. Philly deserves much better. Chinatown deserves much better. There's alternative locations, including the existing site. It's time to put an end to this and prepare for Donald Trump's Administration which will come down on Philadelphia. I appreciate -- the time is up, but the Sunshine Act objection took some time. We must oppose this. You must oppose -(Applause.)
We have David Alexander Jenkins, Maria Frizelle Roberts, Patricia Sanford, Katherine Hicks, Sam Staten and then Ricky Duncan.
What's your name, sir? MR. McBAINE: Ken McBaine from North Philly.
What's your name, sir? MR. McBAINE: Kenneth McBaine. Sorry. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: Go ahead, sir. MR. McBAINE: The Sixers plan from 2022 and the more recent studies brought many questions, questions from RCOs, from neighborhood organizations and from the city in general. For the last two years, many of you as our representatives were asking important questions about transit impacts, neighborhood impacts, health care impacts, housing issues and the Sixers' commitment to the city. Courage was needed this month to continue to ask these questions and to get answers before proceeding with the Arena plan. Several of our Councilpeople showed this courage with their votes last week. For many of the rest instead of courage, you settled for an additional $10 million over 30 years, getting only an extra half a game of Joel Embiid's salary each year for the city. My hope is that you will somehow find your courage before tougher challenges arrive, before Title 1 or school breakfast are threatened or ICE wants to visit your church or school. (Applause.)
David Jenkins. Good morning. Laisse-les manger du gâteau. I am haunted today by the infamous phrase, let them eat cake -
Hold on one second, bro. Could y'all keep it down just for a second and respect the person on the microphone.
Laisse-les manger du gâteau. I'm haunted today, as you should all be, by the infamous phrase, Let them eat cake so clearly and fully expressed to the people of Philadelphia in your prior vote. As I stared at the portrait of the Austrian princessturned queen of all France, Marie Antoinette located in our very own Congress Hall, I was reminded that the fate and the consequence such a sentiment, which I am certain she never expressed had on the people whom felt neglected, underheard and misrepresented by their governments, still with such a warning staring back on us from her portrait, members of this body have turned to the roughly 1,069,874 Philadelphians, 69 percent of her populace and in clear opposition to the voices written expressed desired told them to eat cake. Some members have inferred that they felt pressured by another historic woman who has accused of indifference and excess please relay to Madame du Parker, that the people complain of a rule of law that is ripe with threat and withholding of funds in Council Districts for not lining up their votes with her demands. Please remind Madame that the public bully pulpit attacks on members and constituents in town halls will not be tolerated by a voting populace. Finally dear, Councilmen, remember that the confectionery and sugar, unbaked ideas that you make law today are slapped in the face to the descendants of people who are taught the world how to unseat their government when the government does not heed its call. (Applause.)
To everyone who took the time to come before this body, to have their voices heard, I salute you, for those who are pro and con for this project. My name is Maria Roberts. I am a board member of the African American Chamber of Commerce, a proud board member. I'm also a resident of the city of Philadelphia. I also own a home -- I also own a company, I'm sorry. I own a company that resides in Old City. For the last year I have spent quite a bit of time studying the impact of this project on the city of Philadelphia, and not just on the city of Philadelphia but on the surrounding region. And I've come to the conclusion that it is an amazing and a well-thought-out project. You have to understand that I love this city. I love everything that it has done to support us, and I'm here to support this. But I also respect the fact that everyone has a right to have their voices heard. Thank you everyone. (Applause.)
Good afternoon, Council President and Councilmembers. My name is Patricia Sanford, Alexander Perry, Inc. I am honored to speak to you again, but there are a few points I wanted to make this time, which is that this arena would actually create generational wealth for people that look like me. Number one, we would be able to hire additional people. Number two, we would create jobs and we tend to hire people that look like us. I also want to say that I was born and raised in Philadelphia. I have seen Philadelphia. I have a business for 32 years so I do know that the Sixers Arena will add another element to our great city. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Good morning, Council President and Councilmembers. My name is Katherine Hicks. I'm the Philadelphia Branch NAACP President and I have spoken in the past in support of the 76ers Arena. And I'm here again to speak on their behalf again. The Philadelphia branch is in support of the 76ers Arena. Everyone has the opportunity to have a voice and have a vote, and I was very disappointed to see the disrespect today in Council as to not allowing those who want to voice their opinions to have that opportunity, because we are being drowned out because of the opposition. Again, this is something for the city as a whole. It is not Chinatown against the African American community. It is not Chinatown against the City. This is an opportunity for our city to have access to an opportunity that they never had before. I see the shirts where it saying it's about billionaires. It's not about billionaires. It's about an opportunity, an opportunity for all of us to have a chance to be a part of something. So I want to thank you again for the opportunity to speak and I hope that this will be voted on today and passed for the entire city of Philadelphia. Thank you. (Applause.)
May we have Sam Staten, Ricky Duncan, Dawn Williams, Lisa Hastings and then Ogbonna Hagins, also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Good morning, Council. My name is Sam Staten, Jr., Business Manager, Local 332 in Philly. Just here just to thank City Council and the members and our Mayor for a vision for Downtown Philadelphia. It's very, very important we talk about training for our youth and jobs that this center happens because there's long-sustaining jobs that's involved. And we elected you to make decisions for us in the best interest of us here in Philadelphia. So I want to again thank you for voting this up. And as the Mayor said, put your ones up, put your ones up, One Philly. (Applause.)
Good morning, City Council. Good morning, Philly. My name is Ricky Duncan and I'm the CEO and Executive Director of the NOMO Foundation. I'm here to say the things that a lot of people can't say or won't say. I'm an advocate for the youth for Philadelphia and I can only advocate for people that has advocated for us and served us. The Sixers has been in support of us since we started our program, the NOMO Foundation way back at 5510. We're part of the Youth Foundation. We're part of the Sixers Foundation. Joel Embiid has supported this and I haven't got a dollar from Chinatown. So I just got to keep it -- call a ball a ball and a strike a strike. So at the end of the day, I'm going to support whoever supports the youth. I'm here to support the arena. I see the opportunity it presents. NOMO's acronym stands for New Options and More Opportunities and there's plenty of opportunity in the arena. And I'm here to support it. Thank you. (Applause.)
My name is Dawan Williams. My name is not Dawn. Whoever wrote that, no. But I'm an advocate here in Philadelphia. I work on the ground every day with young men, women and children impacted by the justice system. And this project in my personal opinion is brilliant because it's about opportunity, and it's about jobs. And it's about when men and women in Philadelphia no matter what your religious denomination, the color of your skin or your background or neighborhood, we need jobs. We need pensions. We need medical. We need housing. We need opportunity, and these people over here were brave enough to come to Philadelphia and do it. So y'all have a blessed day. (Applause.)
Good morning. My name is Dave Qu. I was the 21st to testify. I'm the Executive Director of Asian Arts Initiative in Councilman's District. I'm not here today to waste my breath addressing a Council who is not listening. I'm here to speak to the Save Chinatown Coalition for two and a half years. We have organized film screenings, music videos, Christmas carols, poetry collections, press conferences and rallies. When we started our campaign, we were a small group of organizers at our early events. We were asked are we sure that this wasn't a great arena proposal, but today thanks to your hard work and dedication 70 percent of Philadelphians oppose this Arena proposal. Our conversations today begin with others telling us here's why I think this arena is a bad idea. We have changed the landscape of support in the city. The votes may not be in our favor but know that you are not weak, you are strong and I hope you stand proud in the work that you have done. I've worked in City government under the Nutter Administration. I remember when Council President Darrell Clarke served as the foil to Mayor Nutter. These two bodies kept one another in check against the worst impulses of their governance. But in today's Administration, Mayor Parker endorses the arena and Council President Johnson does her bidding. Our Council has proved itself to be weak and align with billionaires, but this is not a time to despair. It will be our job to keep our elected officials in check against their worst impulses of -
Hi, my name is Lisa Hastings. I'm voting against this arena because anybody who's voting for this arena is voting to take a wrecking ball to a vital and busy daytime transit public space, that's Jefferson Station, agreeing to shrink it and turn it so that no one's going to want to go there or be able to since they want to close many of the entrances. As soon as the Jefferson Station is invaded, SEPTA service into the city will decline and it won't recover. And this really doesn't create long-term opportunity for anyone in the city. Jefferson Station may not even be functioning by the time the arena is finished. What then, the damage will be done. I support union construction jobs, but it's possible to do it without having 10 years of demolition destruction and transit, you know, interruption. The City has an endless supply of construction jobs that do not involve destroying -(Applause.)
We have Ogbonna Hagins. May Marcello Giordano, Sam Lu, Fern Lee and Lauren Green, also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
Ogbonna Hagins, fourth generation chattel slavery survivor. I rise today to address Ordinance 240964 which speaks to the create the Arena Services District Authority. However, before we move forward I must also bring attention to the meeting recently convened by Council President Johnson regarding proposed threat of Project 2025. The creation of this arena could potentially generate generational wealth for Philadelphia creating jobs and opportunities for many of our residents, but it's also important that we remember the broader context within which this development is happening. Public figures such as Solomon Jones and Dr. James Peterson on WURD have raised concerns about Project 2025. My question is where are the minutes from the meeting who attended the meeting? What was the outcome of the meeting and why wasn't I, the 18th member of Council, not invited to this meeting? While we focus on the future developments of arenas, we must ensure that all development is done transparently and with full consideration of its impact on the Freedman community, the progeny of the emancipated, the ones who won the Civil War for us to even be sitting here in the first place. Ogbonna Hagins, President of the Philadelphia Reparations Coalition for American Freedmen. Over and out.
Hello. My name is Marcello Giordano. We've had a family business in the city for 100 years in Philadelphia and I've been at the helm for about 25 years. That's a matter of a discussion but I just came down, I rolled out of work a little bit early today to show support for our Mayor. And I think she deserves that. I believe in her no matter what anybody says on either side. She's our Mayor and we should support her. I've been going to the Gallery since I was a young man since the 1980s. I actually met my partner, I met her, she worked at the Gallery. We have two beautiful children together and I feel strongly when I came here today. I'm saddened and I'm frustrated by seeing what's happening. I feel like we get misdirection when this all happens instead of everybody saying all these other things. And what about public transportation, what about this. We have an abandoned train station on Spring Garden and 10th. Why can't we turn that into a route for this new project. Whatever this project is, let's do it right. (Applause.)
Good afternoon, Council President. My name is Regina A. Hairston, President and CEO -- President and CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce for Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. I stand before you today to say that the African American Chamber of Commerce strongly supports the Arena project. Why do we support this project? You cannot grow without investment. We all see how this corridor looks. It is empty, it is blighted and businesses are leaving every day. We need all businesses represented at the Market East corridor. We know that Black businesses especially are the last when it comes to everything. We have the least amount of employees, we don't get the capital that we ask for and our voices are only represented in this chamber by a small few of us even though I represent the majority of them. So our businesses have a right to grow. They are Philadelphians as well. They pay business taxes as well. The Black community wants to see this. I stand here today to say we support this. And also, I stand here today to say there's two legislative bodies. There's the Administration and there's City Council. And one thing that I know is Council President Johnson always makes sure -- I can't speak for anybody else -- but Black businesses, Black firms are represented because he went from, oh, you want this percentage of Black participation, no, we're going to have 50 percent. So thank you for everything you do and happy holidays. (Applause.)
May Sadie Butcher, Sam Lu, Fern Lee, Lauren Green and Nadira Griffin also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)
My name is Fern Lee Hagadorn. I'm speaking against the Arena legislation that you are about to vote on. In the Bible there is a story about two brothers, Jacob and Esau. Esau had something special, his birth right. This gave Esau a number of privileges but it also came with responsibilities. Long story short, brother Jacob wanted Esau's birth right and struck a deal. Jacob got that birth right and Esau got a bowl of soup. Esau later regretted the deal, so Philadelphia is Esau, the 76ers are Jacob. Philadelphia gets soup, 76ers an arena. This process will set a precedent that a $1.3 billion deal can be negotiated behind closed doors. This is not what democracy looks like. There will be physical destruction of communities and neighborhoods. This will impact the daily lives of those who live, work and go to school in Philadelphia and you will live to regret it. This is not a Chinatown thing. This is not a Washington Square thing. This is not just a Gayborhood thing. Vote no because it's a Philly thing. (Applause.)
Good morning. My name is Lynn Major. I'm from West Philly, Councilmember Gauthier's District. All the Councilmembers, Council President Johnson, thank you for listening. This is a big deal, this whole thing, a lot riding on it. There's been some constructive dialogue along the way. My only hope would be that if there could be more listening to what people need in this city and not what outside billionaires want. Thank you. (Applause.)
Hello. My name is Sadie Butcher. I'm a District 3 resident of six years. As a young person who hopes to continue a career in applied research and evaluation, I believe in the power and the value of evidence-based decision-making and policy-making, and evidence and precedent indicating that 76 Place would have a negative effect on the city and its people is overwhelming. If the primary reason for building an arena in Center City is economic development, please see the more than 130 research studies over past three decades concluding unequivocally that sports venues do not boost local economic activity. That is a consensus in the field of economics. To those who continue to claim that this arena is good for the city, that it will bring opportunity and not just decimate existing communities and small business businesses, show us the evidence. So many Councilmembers have raised important questions during the Arena hearings that remain unanswered around the negative impacts of this project, but not a single one of these glaring logistical issues has been sufficiently addressed by Mayor Parker, by City Council or by the developers. I want you to hear me when I say this: Our communities, our families and our students are gaining nothing from this disastrous deal. And if you vote yes, we will pay the price for decades to come. (Applause.)
Hi. My name is Lauren Green and I had traveled through here on my birthday and someone gave me a sticker about this campaign, but I didn't quite comprehend what it was about. And sometimes if I see a school that's being built and there isn't enough light, natural light, I ask the developers to change the plans before they're finished constructing the school because I think it's a bad plan. And that's how I feel about building the 76ers stadium near City Hall. The School District has been suffering for a very long time and I think if you spent 90 percent of the budget on a plan to greenify the schools, make green schoolyards, more green space in the Philadelphia public School District, more green education and sustainability education and then 10 percent to just improve the Fashion District and improve the building stadium, the stadium itself, it would improve the School District and the quality of life for the city. (Applause.)
Good morning. My name is Nadira Griffin. I am the Philadelphia community ambassador at-large for the Councilmanic District. I am here speaking on behalf of 240966. We, the people, as a former teacher at the Philadelphia School District we say (inaudible) and build new schools for our urbanites. And also, I want to say sorry I want to say sorry, mother. Last week I received a Jesuslashing. It was the worst I've ever felt and I never want to feel it again. So today my mother said that I am not too grown to apologize and my mother always told my brothers to stand tall and firm, look a man in his eye and say what you mean and mean what you say. Last week, Council President Kenyatta Johnson, you asked me nicely, you gave me the indication by saying thank you, Ms. Griffin, thank you, Ms. Griffin, indicating that my time was up and my heart continued to speak on behalf of the people. So I'm looking you in your eye today and I'm saying I'm sorry. And I ask you to go deep to forgive me for continuing to speak. I'm sorry because I wasn't raised that way. And, Sergeant-at-Arms, hi. I'm looking you in -- come here. I'm looking you in your eyes too and I'm telling you that I apologize for continuing to speak, so I'm sorry. And, President Kenyatta Johnson, I respect you. Stop smiling -
You know we went to school together, right, so it's cool. It's cool, Nadira.
So I want to tell you that I respect your leadership over the municipality and I respect the chambers. I also want to apologize -- just one more. I also want to apologize to the Councilmen and women here. Although I don't agree with all the decisions that you all make, but I do respect your leadership. And if any time that the heart continues to speak and advocating for the people, I want to let you all know that I apologize and I'll pray to have a humble heart the next time 12/19/24 - STATED - 2ND READING and to be more meek when I come and speak before you. And I want to say, mother, thank you for keeping me Jesus-grounded. (Applause.)
Council President, there are no further names for public comment.
That concludes today's public comment period. We will now consider the bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 240834.
A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to provide for the creation of the Philadelphia Prison 12/19/24 - STATED - 2ND READING Community Oversight Board and the Office of Prison Oversight and providing for the submission of the amendment to the electors of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes my Majority Whip Councilmember Thomas for a motion regarding Resolution No. 240834-A.
Council President. Before we take this vote, I just want to take a moment to thank my colleague Councilmember Nicolas O'Rourke who has worked with me every step of the way since this bill was introduced, someone who's very passionate about the issues that we're dealing with in our prison system. And I also want to thank all of the members of City Council 12/19/24 - STATED - 2ND READING for co-sponsoring this bill because at the end of the day, Council President, once we pass this bill, we will make history, right. We will make history as it relates to what we're looking to do with our prisons, the oversight of our prisons and looking to address an institutional issue that has really had a negative impact on our city, but especially Black folks in Philadelphia. So with that, Council President, I move for the adoption of the legislation. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Resolution No. 240834-A be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. 12/19/24 - STATED - 2ND READING (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the title of Resolution No. 241134.
A resolution renaming the 1500 block of South 17th Street "Carl Vann Wilson Way" in honor of Deacon Carl Vann Wilson Sr. for his extraordinary leadership, entrepreneurship and unwavering commitment to his church and community.
The Chair recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson 12/19/24 - STATED - 2ND READING for a motion regarding Resolution No. 241134.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)