COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, June 11, 2009 10:20 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN WILLIAM GREENLEE COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
Good morning. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats, and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Reverend Doretha Lindsay of St. Peter's Church of Christ. She is here today as the guest of Councilman Jones. At this time, I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
God, creator of heaven and earth, alpha and omega, the beginning and the end, we come to you just as humble as we know how on today, and we come to you asking for your guidance and your wisdom for this Council, God. We pray that you will bless them, that you will guide them and them that they will use the wisdom that Solomon used, God. We pray, Lord, that they will just continue to keep in covenant relationship with the people that you have placed under their care, God. We just thank you. We give you the glory, we give you the honor, and we give you the praise. Our souls say amen and amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks the Reverend for her very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, June 4th, 2009. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, June 4th, 2009 stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, June 4th, 2009 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, absence is requested for
Thank you. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in 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 city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke, who will present a resolution honoring Sister Mary and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. I see that Councilman Clarke is being joined by Councilman Greenlee, Councilman Rizzo and Councilwoman Brown. Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, today, personally I have the honor and all of us have the honor of honoring a superstar in every sense of the way. Sister Mary -"Mary" as they affectionately call her in the neighborhood in the heart of North Philadelphia -- is a very special person, and I'm happy to say that finally the world has recognized all of the wonderful work that she's done. Sister Mary is a person that has a special relationship with God. In the neighborhood the people like to say that when called upon, she goes up to Street, she has the little hotline phone, and she picks it up. Now, it doesn't have a wire connected to it, so I got a sense that it's connected in a different way, in a spiritual way. And ultimately that phone and that hotline is answered, and it's usually answered to be supportive of people in the community and the City of Philadelphia. So, fortunately, the world has recognized Sister Mary and honored her to be one of Time's "100 most influential in the world," not in the City, in the world, and this is a truly significant event. So, therefore, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, Madam President, I would like to read a resolution honoring Sister Mary Scullion for her steadfast dedication and tireless advocacy efforts on behalf of Philadelphia's homeless population and for being chosen one of Time Magazine's "World's Most Influential People" for 2009. Whereas, Sister Mary Scullion has been involved in service work and advocacy for homeless and mentally ill persons since 1978; and Whereas, she was co-founder in 1985 of Women of Hope, which provides permanent residences and support services for homeless mentally ill women; and Whereas, in 1988, she helped to found the Outreach Coordination Center, an innovative program coordinating private and public agencies doing outreach to chronically homeless persons in Center City Philadelphia; and
And whereas in 1989, Sister Mary Scullion and Joan Dawson McConnon co-founded Project H.O.M.E., a nationally recognized organization that provides supportive housing, employment, education and healthcare to enable chronically homeless and low-income persons to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty; and Whereas, Project H.O.M.E. has grown from an emergency winter shelter to 447 units of housing and three businesses that provide employment to formerly homeless persons, and has helped build the Honickman Learning Center and Comcast Technology Labs, a state-of-the-art digital learning center that's the envy of even the best private schools; and Whereas, more than 95 percent of those who cycle through Project H.O.M.E. never return to life on the streets, a success rate that has made the program a model for dozens of other U.S. cities; and
Whereas, Sister Mary has received numerous honorary doctorates for her leadership in the City of Philadelphia. She was also awarded the Liberty Bell Award from the Philadelphia Bar Association, the Prudential National Non-Profit Leadership Award and the 1992 Philadelphia Award. In 2002, Mary was awarded an "Eisenhower Fellowship," and that same year, she and Ms. McConnon were national awardees of the Ford Foundation's prestigious "Leadership for a Changing World Award"; and
Whereas, Sister Mary is a powerful voice on political issues affecting homelessness and mentally ill persons. Her advocacy efforts resulted in the right of homeless persons to vote as well as a landmark federal court decision that affects the fair housing rights of persons with disabilities; and Whereas, in recognition of all of the wonders she has worked in Philadelphia, Sister Mary Scullion has been chosen one of Time Magazine's "World's Most Influential People" of 2009. Now, therefore
Be it resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia hereby honors Sister Mary dedication and tireless advocacy efforts on behalf of Philadelphia's homeless population and for being chosen one of Time Magazine's "World's Most Influential People" of 2009. Be it further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Sister Mary Scullion as further evidence of the sincere admiration and appreciation of this legislative body. Signed and supported by all members of Council. Sister Mary, thank you for your wonderful work. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Sister Mary Scullion. SISTER SCULLION: Thanks, Council President, and thanks to all the members of the City Council, especially to Councilman Clarke. I'm lucky enough to live in the 5th Councilmanic District. I just want to say that this is shared by the entire City of Philadelphia that's committed to ending homelessness, and in a very special way, to every single man, woman and child that have experienced homelessness. It's their suffering that's a prophetic sign in our city that something is radically wrong, and we in this room can demonstrate that together we can and must end homelessness. So I look at this honor as a way of calling all of us to finish the job of ending homelessness in our city. And I also want to just say I'm glad to be here in solidarity with the seniors, with the people who are here for the rights of the disabled and the workers, the home healthcare workers, and Casino Free Philadelphia. So for those in our city to really create a quality of life for every single person, we're lucky enough and I'm very appreciative to be here with City Council, who understands and who efforts to make this city one that welcomes each and every person. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilman Rizzo, who will present a resolution honoring the Mutter Museum on the occasion of its 150th anniversary. Will Dr. Paul Brucker and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. I see that Councilman Rizzo is being joined by Councilwoman Brown and Councilman Clarke and Councilwoman Tasco. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you, Madam President. Thank you, everyone, for coming commending and thanking the Mutter Museum on the occasion of its 150th anniversary. Whereas, on May 20th, 1856, Dr. Thomas Dent Mutter informed the College of Physicians of Philadelphia that he was retiring from teaching and wished to offer the guardianship of his personal museum to the College of Physicians as the body best qualified by the character of its members and the nature of its pursuits for undertaking the trust; and
Whereas, as a popular professor of surgery at Jefferson Medical College, Mutter had amassed a unique and valuable collection of anatomical and pathological materials for use in his classes. Accompanying the collection would be an endowment of $30,000; and Whereas, Mutter specified that the College must erect a suitable fireproof building within five years of long felt the need for its own facilities in order to accommodate its growing library, and acknowledging that Mutter's museum would be a worthy and appropriate addition, the College signed the agreement with Dr. Mutter in 1859; and
Whereas, in 1871, the College decided that the Museum should begin collecting obsolete medical instruments as well. They now constitute the major part of the Museum's acquisitions, items reflecting changes in the technology of medicine and memorabilia of present and past practitioners; and Whereas, the College continued to purchase collections and accept donations for both its library and museum. This created persistent need for more space, and in 1908, the College began construction on a new home on 22nd Street between Chestnut and Market; and
Whereas, world-renowned as a valuable resource for educating and enlightening the public about the medical past and telling important stories about what it means to be human, embodying the College of Physicians of Philadelphia's mission to advance the cause of health and uphold the ideals and heritage of medicine, bringing great honor and pride to our great City of Philadelphia.
Be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it honors and commends and thanks the Mutter Museum on the occasion of its 150th anniversary. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to representatives of the Mutter Museum further evidencing the admiration and gratitude of this legislative body. Thank you, all. (Applause.)
Good morning. I'm Dr. Paul Brucker and I'm the President of the College of Physicians, which is the home of the Mutter. Dr. Mutter would be very proud today if he was aware of the fact that this past year we've had 100,000 visitors to the Mutter Museum, many of whom are from outside of Philadelphia. In fact, we have a strong international presence now and it's listed on all the tourist brochures as a very valuable museum and one that should be seen. But I think more importantly, every day we have many school buses that bring students from all our Philadelphia schools and suburban schools to the Mutter to learn a lot about biology and about the human body, and go back very excited and turned on that they've seen something that's tangible and they've been educated about it. The College, which has 1,400 fellows, tries to do a lot of good things for Philadelphia. In the past six weeks, we've had a morning-long conference on swine flu with members from all the medical school faculties being there, and we've also had a conference on healthcare in recessionary times, which was attended by several hundred people. One of our new exciting projects is the result of a grant from the Caribotts (ph) Foundation where we plan very soon, in the next several weeks, to select 26 students, starting at ninth grade and going up, from three public schools and one Catholic school who will be mentored by the fellows in the College, with the idea that if they're exposed to and excited about science and medicine, they'll pursue that when they graduate. So the College has been around since 1787, the Mutter for 150 years. We have a lot of history and a lot of legacy, but now we're trying to be good that the public, including the public of Philadelphia, is educated about medicine and science. I'm honored to accept this resolution on behalf of the College.
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you, Madam President. First of all, I want to thank the Council President, Anna Verna, for giving us the opportunity to welcome the Lord Mayor of Cork here this morning so we can give him a proper welcome, Philadelphia welcome. I would like to read the following citation, which is welcoming to Lord Mayor Councilor Brian Bermingham of Cork, Ireland and his wife, Lady Mayoress Elma Bermingham. The Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to welcome Lord Mayor Councilor Brian Bermingham and his wife, Elma Bermingham, to our City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection. Whereas, in 1979, Councilor Brian Bermingham was elected to the Cork City Council serving for the past 30 years to date, representing First and Northwest Ward and now the Southwest Ward; and Whereas, at the annual meeting of Cork City Council on June 23, 2008, Councilor Bermingham was elected Lord Mayor of Cork; and Whereas, with the support of Lady Mayoress and the Council over which he presides, the Lord Mayor proudly leads a vibrant and growing 21st century city with our beloved Philadelphia - a thriving port, a number of universities and institutions of higher education, a large corporate citizenry and a rich multi-cultural shopping restaurant and theatre district for all residents and visitors to enjoy. Therefore, by virtue of this citation, the Council of the City of Philadelphia does hereby join the Irish American descendents and all of the citizens of Philadelphia in welcoming Lord Mayor Councilor Brian Bermingham and Lady Mayoress Elma Bermingham to Philadelphia. We hope your time in our city is pleasant and that you return home safely with fond memories of our great city. (Applause.) LORD
Thank you very much. I'm delighted to be here this morning. It is indeed an honor for me as Lord Mayor called to be given the opportunity to address you. Jack Kelly for the invitation and thank the Mayor indeed, the Council, Madam President and Councilmembers and indeed the people of Philadelphia for receiving me here today. Previously as the Councilman has mentioned, I've been fortunate as a public representative to represent the people of Cork for over 30 years now, and to just last week being reelected to Cork City Council again. I come with greetings indeed from the Cork City Council, from Cork County Council, from the people of Cork and indeed from the Cork Society of Friends, the Quakers. Separated by 3,000 miles of ocean, the tale of our two cities is a story of a stage of liberty and freedom named and founded by the Penn family, with strong historical connections to Cork County and City. Following visits from Philadelphia and during my year of office, indeed I detect there is an opportunity for Philadelphia and Cork to have a closer sister city relationship. One such might be increasing our understanding of our shared history, sharing information and knowledge indeed and enhancing our connections. This may lead to increased visits between our peoples, cooperation in research and miscellaneous projects, enhancing the quality of life of our urban and rural environments into the 21st century. A tale of two cities entails information on both parts, and you already know that the island of Ireland is divided into Northern Ireland under British jurisdiction and the Republic of Ireland. The total combined area would be approximately 32,500 square miles. In a northern-southern direction, it was approximately 302 miles and in the -- by width, it's about 174 miles. So indeed the city itself and the county itself is quite a small island. in the southwest coast of Ireland on the banks of the River Lee. It is the second largest city in the Republic of Ireland and is the home to approximately, city and county, 400,000 people. And indeed the Cork Airport has got a very strong hub to the European main line destinations, and the Shannon Airport, not one hour's journey from Cork, is very closely connected with the states. So Pennsylvanians are proud to call the Keystone State their home. Much the same can be said for the people of Cork in an Irish context. Cork, like Pennsylvania, has the reputation over the centuries of being very independent-minded and indeed we are classified as the rebel county. And we have a strong maritime history and are very open to elaborate to construct, if you like, and to develop a maritime museum. The Lusitania was torpedoed off 1915, and the Titanic's last stop was from Cork before it set out on its fateful journey. And the motto on Cork coat of arms, Statio Bene Fide Carinis, is "A Safe Harbour for Ships," and we claim to have the second largest, deepest natural harbor in the world after Sydney. I understand from the Commodore of the Irish Naval Service that the Irish Naval helicopter patrol vessel will enter Philadelphia next July on the 14th to 17th next, with personnel from the Tourist and Industrial Development Authority. I hope many of you might be able to visit the ship at that particular time. I was going to go on just to outline the Cork's economic and social history, but I understand that in fact time is rather limited and so I would just like to say that as Cork Society, we seek to move forward towards a sustainable form of development. Our region is to be a dynamic and innovative force, facing and surmounting the challenges, enabling Cork to become a major European and worldwide destination. Now, I'm the 71st Lord Mayor.
Lord Mayor Goldberg in 1977 visited your city again, and he actually did a lot of research on William Penn. Now, he regarded William Penn as being one of the greatest of Americans and world intellectuals and proletarians. During his time as Lord Mayor, as I say, he visited Pennsylvania. And indeed it is with joy that I mention Gerry Goldberg, our first Jewish Lord Mayor, and he himself would be very anxious to make ties with Philadelphia, as I would. In fact, Penn's three outstanding characteristics that contribute to his greatness to which his Irish experience has played a significant part is his intense religious experience. He became skilled in the administration and the (unintelligible) of property, which later had benefits with the Indians there, and and racial and racial inequality. There are various properties in and around Cork that the Penn family managed during the 1600's. And, in fact, it was in Cork that Penn accepted attendance of Quakerism, attended the meetings with regularity over time. And indeed William Penn, as you know, was an early champion of democracy and religious freedom, and same is for his good relations with the Indians. Under his direction, Philadelphia was planned and developed. So just to conclude -- and I'd like to thank you very much for your patience. Maybe during discussions I will go into more detail. But Penn's quotation is worth saying again: "I expect to pass through life but once. )
Well, they can't say Irish are at a loss of words, I'll tell you that. I would like to acknowledge the presence of his beautiful wife, Elma. Do you want to come up here? Elma Bermingham. (Applause.)
And now on behalf of the Mayor of the City of Philadelphia, Michael Nutter, and also the City Council, President Verna and the entire Council staff, I would like to present this Liberty Bell as a token of our appreciation of coming to Philadelphia. LORD
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution recognizing Dr. Denzil Douglas, Prime Minister of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis. Will Dr. Douglas and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Good morning. We have a wonderful delegation here this morning, and we want to say we are proud to recognize them and welcome those from St. Kitts and Nevis here to City Council in Philadelphia this morning. We are honored to present this resolution recognizing the Honorable Dr. Denzil L. Douglas, Prime Minister of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis. Whereas, the Honorable Dr. Denzel L. Douglas was born into modest circumstances in the St. Kitts in 1953, where he lost his mother very early in life and was the son of a tailor and part-time sugar cane checker. Yet, Dr. Douglas was raised in a loving family with ample books and a great respect for learning; and Whereas, Dr. Douglas was a gifted student that excelled in elementary and secondary school and attended, through a scholarship, the University of the West Indies, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors in 1977. He also graduated from the University's medical school and, following an internship at the Port of Spain General Hospital in Trinidad, he opened a private family medical practice in Basseterre and in St. Paul's, St. Kitts and, in a decade, became the President of St. Kitts-Nevis Medical Association; and Whereas, as a young professional, Dr. Douglas understood the bring about change for the people of St. Kitts and Nevis, and despite his success, he never forgot his upbringing and that ordinary working people are the backbone and strength of the twin-island Federation; and
Whereas, in 1979, he became the first Young Labour representative to sit as a full member of St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party and he was elected Deputy Party Chairman in 1987. In 1989, he was elected Member of Parliament for St. Christopher No. 6, appointed Leader of Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition, and chosen as the National Political Leader of the Labour Party; and Whereas, between 1989 and 1995, Dr. Douglas reorganized and reenergized the Labour Party into a formidable democratic movement, which he led to power with his 1995 appointment as Prime Minister. With the confidence and support of the voters in the 2000 and 2004 elections, Dr. Douglas has continued to serve as Prime Minister for the constituents of the twin-island Federation and holds the ministerial portfolios of National Security, Foreign Affairs, Sustainable Development, Tourism, Sports and Culture; and Whereas, as one of the Caribbean region's senior statesman, Dr. Douglas has served as Chairman of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community, CARICOM, and the Authority of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States and has for some time been CARICOM's spokesman for HIV/AIDS, various health matters, and human resource development. He also plays an active leadership role in many regional and international organizations, including the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, Caribbean Development Bank, Association of the Caribbean States, Organization of American States, International Monetary Fund and the World Bank; and
Whereas, for his outstanding leadership and his tireless efforts to improve the quality of life for all Caribbean peoples, Dr. Douglas has received many honors and accolades, including the Ghandi-King-Ikeda Peace Award, Order of the Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon from the Republic of China on Taiwan, and the Order of the Liberator (First Class) from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. He also received the 2007 Global Award at the 15th Annual Trumpet Awards, Legacy Award from the American Foundation of the University of West Indies, and has been recognized by former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush as well as the Congressional Black Caucus and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Now, therefore, be it resolved, by the City Council of Philadelphia, that we hereby recognize the Honorable Dr. Denzil L. Douglas, Prime Minister of Kitts and Nevis. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Prime Minister Douglas as an expression of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Introduced by Councilmembers Marian Tasco and Jannie L. Blackwell and supported by all members of the Philadelphia City Council. Welcome. (Applause.)
We have so many outstanding dignitaries here today, and Stan Straughter, who is Executive Director of the Mayor's Task Force on African and Caribbean Affairs, will introduce the Attorney General, who will make remarks, and all the other dignitaries that's accompanying this group.
On behalf of the Mayor's Commission on African and Caribbean Immigrants Affairs for the City of Philadelphia, we're going to welcome certainly really recommend that if you can get to St. Kitts, please go. I have the honor and pleasure of introducing to you the Honorable Attorney General Mr. Dennis Merchant. ) ATTORNEY GENERAL MERCHANT: Thank you very much. It's a distinct pleasure and honor to be given the opportunity of receiving this proclamation on behalf of the government of St. Kitts and Nevis. I must, first of all, apologize for the absence of our Prime Minister, who is back home on official business, but conveys his regret for being absent here today. He had the distinct opportunity yesterday of speaking by way of telephone to the Mayor of Philadelphia. This wonderful city with which myself and our team, esteemed team, has had the opportunity of enjoying the brotherly and sisterly friendship and this marvelous city, it is indeed a pleasure for me to be able to receive the proclamation on behalf of the government of St. Kitts and Nevis. May I say that this week we have been here for -- our plan is to be here until Sunday. We came in on Tuesday night, and we have had a distinct pleasure of being on a trade mission this week, which has been organized by Agnes Ogletree. And I would like to acknowledge at this stage the women, the Councilwomen, Marian Tasco, Jannie Blackwell, Blondell Reynolds Brown, who have been responsible for the exercise this morning. May I take this opportunity and indicate to you that St. Kitts and Nevis, a country that is filled with -- a federation which is filled with an awful lot of history, fun, and we look forward to building our relationship and friendship between our country and your future, and we would like at this stage to extend an invitation to everyone here to our wonderful country of St. Kitts and Nevis. At this stage, I would like to take the distinct opportunity in announcing our recently appointed Honorary Consul, Mr. Worrell Nero, who is the Honorary Consul for St. Kitts for the Philadelphia region, and welcome him, acknowledge his presence here. ) HONORARY CONSUL NERO: Good morning. I myself was born in St. Kitts, but have called Philadelphia home for the past 22 years. I practiced law locally, started here with the Defender Association, and have had my own practice from 1991 until today. Thanks for welcoming us. And I have the distinct pleasure of introducing the rest of the delegation that traveled from St. Kitts, from Washington, DC and from New York City to be here with you. Honorable Dennis Merchant, Attorney General and Minister of Justice. We have also His Excellency Dr. Izeben Williams, Ambassador of St. Kitts-Nevis to the United States. ) HONORARY CONSUL NERO: We have Her Excellency Ms. Roslyn Hazelle, Permanent Secretary, Minister of International Trade and Industry and Commerce. ) HONORARY CONSUL NERO: From the tourism office in New York, we have Mrs. Jacinth Henry-Martin. ) HONORARY CONSUL NERO: Also from the tourism office, we have Mr. Abdullah Skerritt, Director of eBusiness Operations in Washington, DC. ) HONORARY CONSUL NERO: We have Mr. Christopher Herbert, who is the in St. Kitts-Nevis. ) HONORARY CONSUL NERO: And from the private sector, we have Mr. Mahesh Nariani, who is the immediate past President of the Manufacture Division in St. Kitts-Nevis. ) HONORARY CONSUL NERO: Thanks again, and I would like to now introduce Her Excellency Roslyn Hazelle. ) HER EXCELLENCY HAZELLE: Thank you. Good morning. It is indeed an honor to be standing here in your City Council this morning. We have been treated very well.
We have been the recipient of the brotherly love, and I love the addition of the sisterly affection, and somebody said sisterly effectiveness and efficiency yesterday, because a lot of the organizers of this have been women, and so far everything a well-oiled machine. So I like that addition as well. I just want to take a few moments just before I make a presentation to the Councilwomen Tasco, Blackwell and Brown on behalf of Mayor Nutter, that I just want to take a few minutes and say to you, we're looking forward to reciprocating what we have received here in Philadelphia over the last couple of days. We have a lot of opportunities for business, for visits. We have identified the area of tourism, the area of information, communication, technology, agriculture, agri-processing, agriculture as well. We have a tilapia, salt water tilapia farm, and the manufacturing division. We have a very lively electronic sector that we produce electronic goods. St. Kitts and Nevis, many of our companies are (unintelligible) licensed and so, therefore, we do different department contracts as well. And so we are looking continue the relationship that we have started through Agnes and all of her wonderful team. And so we look forward to welcoming you, and we'll get a chance to host a team coming from your lovely city. I will now like to present to the three Councilwomen a map of St. Kitts and Nevis. I might want to add here that we have the distinguished pleasure and honor of sharing a history with you in that Alexander Hamilton was born in the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, one of your distinguished founding fathers. Those of us believe that the only reason why he didn't -- he's not numbered among your presidents is because he was not born in the United States of America, but the same way you are proud of him, we are equally proud of him as well. Thank you very much. ) HER EXCELLENCY HAZELLE: And so I'm presenting to the three Councilwomen Mayor, Mayor Nutter, a map of St. Kitts and Nevis. It shows all of our villages, as we call them. It shows the capital of Nevis, the capital of St. Kitts. And also we have a museum in Nevis where the Lord Admiral Horatio Nelson, the British admiral, was married to a local person from Nevis, and so we have the Lord Nelson Museum as well. So we thought that it would be an honor to be able to share our map with Mayor Nutter and Councilmembers. Thank you very much. ) HER EXCELLENCY HAZELLE: And this is for the Mayor, because, unfortunately, it wasn't ready yesterday when we met to present to the Mayor at the reception. Thank you very much.
We'll see that the Mayor receives this wonderful map.
If I could just acknowledge City Council -- I'm Agnes Ogletree, Board member of GPTMC representing the Council. As the City representative for GPTMC, it is my great honor to be part of this international trade mission and to create a partnership and a collaboration with this fine country, St. Kitts-Nevis. It's about city and country merging together to create dialogue for change and increase in revenue and jobs and business opportunities and being able to provide opportunities in health education, technology, business. And so we've had an exceptional opportunity to bring them. This is our second day. So we are thankful that City Council has recognized this fine trade mission. Just a few highlights. We have been able to enjoy the hospitality of some key sponsors that have just been supportive, and so I just want to just Simian Hospitality Group hosted us last night. GPTMC hosted us for lunch, and we were hosted by the law firms in the morning. And we are on schedule tomorrow to be part of the health education tour, where St. Kitts-Nevis has over seven medical universities where U.S. students attend school there, but they do residency at our universities, Thomas Jefferson, University of Penn. So we've got great synergy not only in tourism but in health education. And so we look forward to a great ending of our trade mission on Saturday. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages to Chief Clerk will read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, pursuant to Section 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today submitting to the Council the recommendations of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill No. 090169, 090170, 090289, 090290, 090328, 090348, 090349, 090354, 090359, 090381 and 090412; and I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 442; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel Nos. 679, 680, 681 and 682; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel Nos. 648 and 657; and A resolution approving the acquisition by the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development of real property located at 4610-14 Market Street, 4616 to 20 Market Street and 4622 Market Street from the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority; and A resolution confirming the appointment of Damone B. Jones as a member of the Board of Ethics to serve in the term ending November 16, 2012.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 12-900 of the Traffic Code, entitled "Parking Regulations and Penalties," and amending Chapter 9-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Service and Other Businesses," to increase the available off-street options for the parking of motor-driven cycles, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce one resolution.
A resolution approving the acquisition by the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development of real property located at 4610 to 14 Market Street, 4616 to 20 Market Street and 4622 Market Street from the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution confirming the appointment of Damone B. Jones, Sr. as a member of the Board of Ethics to serve in the term ending November 16, 2012.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution urging Governor Rendell to create the Pennsylvania Consumer Workforce Council.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one resolution on behalf of the Administration.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 7th, 18th, 19th, 31st and 37th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez for a motion.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one resolution on behalf of the Administration and one privileged resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution recognizing, honoring and commemorating Juneteenth as the day that abolished slavery more than 144 years ago.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 38th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 16th, 18th and 28th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 16th, 17th and 37th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 47th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcels No. 679, 680, 681 and 682.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Madam President, the Committee of the Whole reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee of the Whole, to which was referred Bill No. 090465, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 21 Code, entitled 'Miscellaneous,' by adding a new chapter with provisions relating on how and when required notices shall be published and advertised, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 090465. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bill just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Rules reports four bills out with favorable recommendations.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 090072, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 by adopting a new section, entitled 'City Avenue Regional Center and City Avenue Village Center Special District Controls'"; and Bill No. 090191, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' to prohibit the transfer of special approvals provided by the Zoning Board of Adjustment"; and Bill No. 090412 entitled, "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations, all under certain terms and conditions"; and Bill No. 090413, entitled, "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled 'Miscellaneous,' by adding a new section, entitled 'North Central Front Street Special District Controls,' all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 090072, 191, 412 and 413. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the Committee on Finance.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Finance reports three bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 090405, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Bond Committee to sell bonds at public or private negotiated sale"; and Bill No. 090410, entitled, "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-3200, entitled 'Keystone Opportunity Zone and Economic Development District,' by providing for extensions of the term of properties"; and Bill No. 090446, entitled, "An ordinance amending Chapter 19-3500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'General Acute Care Hospital Assessment,' by adding an assessment upon the net operating revenue of certain specified hospitals located in the City of Philadelphia, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee, with the exception of Bill No. 090405. (Duly seconded.)
It properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee, with the exception of Bill No. 090405. That bill will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for our next session of Council. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Public Property and Public Works reports four bills with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Property and Public Works, to which was referred Bill No. 090434, entitled, "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development land and any improvements thereon situate in an area generally located south of Pattison Avenue and east of I-95"; and Bill No. 090435, entitled, "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to record a Declaration of Restrictive Covenants for Conservation with the Philadelphia County Recorder of Deeds"; and Bill No. 090439, entitled, "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey certain tracts of land located on the south side of West Erie Avenue to the Philadelphia Authority Development"; and Bill No. 090440, entitled, "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to lease to the Boys and Girls Club of Philadelphia certain parcels of land and improvements located 328 West Coulter Street, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 090434, 090435, 090439 and 090440. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer two bills on behalf of the Committee of Streets and Services that were voted out favorably.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Streets and Services, to which was referred Bill 090464, entitled, "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 63 and 67 by relocating the northeasterly and southwesterly curblines of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway from 21st Street to points northwest of 22nd Street"; and Bill No. 090008, entitled, "An ordinance authorizing Tony Elebah to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 2457-2459 North 54th Street, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit of the two bills that have just been read into the record. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Brown for a report from the Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs reports favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, to which was referred Bill No. 090445, entitled, "An ordinance authorizing the President of the Fairmount Park Commission to enter into a lease agreement between the City of Philadelphia as landlord and the Center City District as tenant, referred to Sister Cities Plaza, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 090445. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bill just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the Committee on Public Health and Human Services.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Public Health and Human Services reports out three bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Health and Human Services, to which was referred Bill No. 090260, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 6-403 of Title 6 of The Philadelphia Code, to establish prohibitions on items containing lead and to add jewelry to the list of items that may not receive or maintain a lead-based coating"; and Bill No. 090261, entitled, "An ordinance amending Title 6 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Health Code,' to eliminate the requirement of mobile food vendors"; and Bill No. 090383, entitled, "An ordinance amending the Health Code, Title 6 of The Philadelphia Code, by amending Section 6-102, entitled 'Definitions,' and creating a new Section 6-309, entitled 'Outdated Products,' all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. (Duly seconded.)
It properly seconded that rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair at this time recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Technology and Information Services reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Technology and Information Services, to which was referred Bill No. 090097, entitled, "An ordinance authorizing the Department of Public Property of the City of Philadelphia to enter into an agreement with the School District of Philadelphia for the School District's use of the City's 800 megahertz public safety radio communications system," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 090097. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bill just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on the Environment.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on the Environment reports one bill out with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on the Environment, to which was referred Bill No. 090074, entitled, "An ordinance amending Chapter 9-600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Service and Other Businesses,' by adding a new Section 9-614, entitled 'Mandatory Use of Recyclable and Compostable Checkout Bags,' all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit of Bill No. 090074. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bill just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committee with a suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. They will, therefore, be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING Calendar for our next session of Council. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for the purpose of calling up the bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar to be considered today. Councilwoman, I understand that there is an amendment to Bill No. 090446.
Yes. Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit an amendment to Bill No. 090446. (Duly seconded.)
The ayes have it, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
I would 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING like to offer an amendment to Bill No. 090446. A copy of the amendment has been circulated to all members of Council. I move for the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor of the motion signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and Bill No. 090446 is amended. Bill No. 090446 will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. Now Councilwoman Tasco could certainly read the bills that are being called up for a vote on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING of a Consent Agenda to consider the following bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar: Bills No. 090259, 090262, 090266, 090291, 0902 -I'm sorry; 090320, 090329, 090382, 090386, 090387, 090388, 090391, 090404, 090406, 090407, 090438, 090441, 090444, 090098, 090192, 090210, 090327, 090330, 090012, 090353 and 090389 are all being called up on the Consent Agenda. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the bills just read by Councilwoman Tasco. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries, and we 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING will consider the Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for the purpose of calling up the bills on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Madam President. In addition to bills being considered on the Consent Agenda, Bill No. 080527-A, which will be amended, 090015-AA, 090244-A, 090295, 090292, 090169, 090170 to be amended, 090348, 090349, 090354, 090359, 090381, 090392 to be amended, 090288, 090352, 090437, 090289, 090361, 090122, 090123 to be amended, and 090290.
Thank you. We will now consider today's Consent Agenda. After each title is read, any member may object to the inclusion of the bill on the Consent Agenda. Upon such an objection and without debate, the bill will be 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING immediately removed from the Consent Agenda and placed on our regular Final Passage Calendar. I would ask the Chief Clerk to now read the title of the bills on the Consent Agenda.
Bill No. 090259, an ordinance authorizing William Shoepe to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 4000 Spruce Street; and Bill No. 090262, an ordinance amending Section 9-211 of The Philadelphia Code by including certain areas in the vicinity of Manayunk Avenue; and Bill No. 090266, an ordinance authorizing Dahlia Osman to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 1001 South 10th Street; and Bill No. 090291, an ordinance establishing a no parking regulation on the 5200 block of Marshall Street; and Bill No. 090320, an ordinance 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING authorizing the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of 7th Street and Godfrey Avenue; and Bill No. 090329, an ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code by adding a permissible location on the sidewalk of the west side of 18th Street between Walnut Street and Locust Street; and Bill No. 090382, an ordinance amending Chapter 12-3000 by authorizing the installation of red light enforcement systems at the intersection of Rising Sun Avenue at Adams Avenue; and Bill No. 090386, an ordinance amending Chapter 12-3000 by authorizing the installation of red light enforcement systems at the intersection of Henry Avenue at Walnut Lane; and Bill No. 090387, an ordinance amending Section 9-208 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sidewalk Cafes," by permitting sidewalk cafes to be maintained on Ridge Avenue, both 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING sides; and Bill No. 090388, an ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code by adding as a permissible location Canal View Park; and Bill No. 090391, an ordinance amending Chapter 12-3000 by authorizing the installation of red light enforcement systems at the intersection of Aramingo Avenue at York Street; and Bill No. 090404, an ordinance establishing a one way parking regulation on Belgrade Street, from Ash Street to Pratt Street; and Bill No. 090406, an ordinance amending Section 9-205 by prohibiting sidewalk sales on portions of Broad Street, Venango Street, Tioga Street and Ontario Street; and Bill No. 090407, an ordinance amending Chapter 12-3000 by authorizing the installation of red light enforcement systems at the intersection of Aramingo Avenue at Castor Avenue; and 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING Bill No. 090438, an ordinance establishing a no truck parking regulation on Vernon Road; and Bill No. 090441, an ordinance authorizing the paving of 4th Street from Westmoreland Street to Ontario Street; and Bill No. 090444, an ordinance authorizing Chapters 10-611 and 12-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled, respectively, "Sidewalk Behavior" and "Bicycle Regulations and Penalties"; and Bill No. 090098, an ordinance renaming and designating the Fotteral Square Playground as the "James Young Memorial Playground"; and Bill No. 090192, an ordinance renaming and designating the park located at the intersection of Germantown Avenue, York Street and North 8th Street as the "Danny Boyle Community Park"; and Bill No. 090210, an ordinance renaming and designating McAlpin Playground located at 36th and Aspen 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING Street as the "Miles Mack Playground"; and Bill No. 090 -(Applause.)
090327, an ordinance authorizing the President of the Fairmount Park Commission of the Northwestern Equestrian Facility in Fairmount Park"; and Bill No. 090330, an ordinance authorizing the President of the Fairmount Park Commission to sublease the property at the Philadelphia Holocaust Remembrance Foundation"; and Bill No. 090012, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Privilege Taxes," by providing for the "New Philadelphia Job Creation Tax Credit"; and Bill No. 090353, an ordinance amending Section 19-2604 of The Philadelphia Code, by amending the provisions providing a credit for 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING contributions to community development corporations to allow two businesses to apply jointly for the credit"; and Bill No. 090389, an ordinance authorizing the Commerce Director to file an application under the Main Street Program in an aggregate amount not to exceed $1,306,000, all under certain terms and conditions. Councilwoman Blackwell -
Just a moment, please. These bills having been read on two different days, the question for each bill now is shall the bills pass finally. The Clerk shall call the roll, and upon being called, each Councilmember shall vote aye on each of the bills, nay on each of the bills or indicate those bills for which the member is voting aye and those for which he is voting nay. At this time, I would ask the Chief Clerk to please call the roll.
Aye on all bills. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative on each of the bills, the bills on the Consent Agenda are passed. We will now consider the bills on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar, and I would ask the Clerk to please read the title of Bill No. 080527-A.
An ordinance amending Section 14-2007 of The Philadelphia Code to permit the historic designations of public interior portions of buildings, and making technical 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING changes, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of Councilman Green, the main sponsor of this bill, and together with Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, I offer amendments to this bill. The amendments have been circulated. Just for the record, they worked together with all the stakeholders and all the interested parties, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and I move the adoption of the amendments. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the amendment be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.) 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it and the amendment is adopted. We will now consider Bill No. 090015-AA.
An ordinance amending Section 9-212 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Newsstands," to permit the placement of commercial advertising on newsstands and revise the fee for a newsstand license.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 090244-A.
An ordinance amending Section 19-2700 of The 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sales and Use Tax and Hotel Occupancy Tax," by revising the rate of tax, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be considered is Bill No. 090295.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 11th Street, Filbert Street, 8th Street and Market Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Madam President? 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING
The Chief Clerk will please -- I'm sorry. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Point of order.
Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Madam President, in the caucus, I had indicated I'd like to speak on this.
Okay. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. This legislation rezones 801 Market Street as a Commercial Entertainment District and it is a step towards making a Market Street East casino a reality. For clarity, the developer must still present a Plan of Development, including traffic, parking and architectural plans, to the Planning Commission prior to final approvals. This is a significant step forward for Foxwoods, but it is not their final 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING hurdle. Over the past four years, Brian Abernathy, my legislative assistant, and I have lived and breathed casino gaming. I understand the problems associated with gaming - traffic, addiction and safety problems. And I also understand the economic benefits that can be derived from casinos - tax revenue, jobs and the potential uplift for the surrounding area. Working with and observing this Administration has made me confident that we can address the problems associated with these developments. Struggling through this year's budget and through this recession, some would argue depression is clear how desperately we need the economic benefits. While this legislation removes most City obstacles that remain for Foxwoods development, there are still obstacles. The developers are facing the worst credit market in the history in decades. By passing this bill, Foxwoods' 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING potential creditors should feel confident about the City's support. Foxwoods must still gain site control. The negotiations with their landlord, Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust, has progressed well, but all of us are also aware that another owner of the building, Gramercy Capital, has expressed concerns about this development. Neither City Council nor the Mayor can solve those problems. We will not allow what little power we have to be used as leverage for a private party. We're confident that PREIT, Foxwoods and Gramercy will resolve what issues exist. Finally, the City is actively negotiating a reciting agreement. You may recall that the developers signed a tax settlement agreement with the City at their previous location. That agreement must be renegotiated. Some of its provisions are no longer relevant. However, some of the agreement's 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING provisions will provide long-term security to the City and the surrounding neighborhoods. Over the past several weeks, my office has accompanied the Administration in these negotiations, and significant progress has been made. In conclusion, I want to send a clear message to Foxwoods, to the Gaming Board and to the state Legislature. Frank DiCicco, City Council and the City of Philadelphia support entertainment development partners. The City, the State, Pennsylvania Entertainment Development Partners and PREIT all have a significant economic interest in this project. As such, we're committed to working as partners to make this casino a reality. As partners, we may not always agree, but as partners, we will be working towards the same goal. On one final note, I believe that Market Street is the right site for Philadelphia's second casino. If Foxwoods attempts to return to the river, 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING I will continue the fight, as I've done over the last four years. While I may fail -(Audience yelling.)
We will have order, please. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: While I may fail in that battle, I can guarantee a difficult road. If this partnership should fail, if the credit markets are simply too difficult or if the Gaming Board for whatever reason decides to rebid this license, I hope they recognize that Philadelphia has made a choice. Market Street East can work. Give us the opportunity to make it happen. And thank you, Madam President, and thank you to all of my colleagues -(Audience yelling.) COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: -- who have -(Audience yelling.) COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: -- who have worked with me as the Councilperson 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING who represents the district of where two casinos have been chosen by the State Gaming Board to be located within. I know it was difficult for all of you from time to time. I understand the pressure that all of us have been under, and I sincerely and truly thank all of you, each and every one of you, for standing by me and -(Audience yelling.) COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: -- and the constituents that I represent in the 1st Councilmanic District, including some of the folks who are yelling at us today. Thank you again. (Audience yelling.) COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes -(Audience yelling.)
The Chair recognizes -(Audience yelling.) 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING
If you don't stop, I will have you removed. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney. Your light is on.
Thank you, Madam President. I would like to be recorded as voting aye on the bills that I missed voting on the Consent Agenda when I was out of the room.
The record will so reflect that. Bill No. 090295 has been read, and at this time, I would say that this bill having been read on two different days -(Audience yelling.)
-the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 090292.
An ordinance 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING amending Section 17-107 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Contractors: Labor-Management Relationships," by amending the definition of "City Work" and "Service Contracts" to include certain subcontracts for non-professional services, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 090169.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps within the area bounded by Berks Street, the Delaware River, Market Street and Interstate 95.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 090170.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code by adding a new Section 14-1636, entitled "Central Delaware Riverfront Overlay District."
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. Earlier today I circulated an amendment regarding this bill, and I would ask for the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the amendment be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
Those 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING opposed? (No response.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. We will now consider Bill No. 090348.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code by amending Section 14-1619, entitled "Frankford Avenue Special District Controls."
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 090349.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code by creating a new Section 14-1636, entitled "Delaware River Conservation District." 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 090354.
An ordinance amending Chapter 14-400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Commercial Entertainment District."
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 090359.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 146 and 271 by striking from the City Plan 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING and vacating Shackamaxon Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING Councilman Jones.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be considered is Bill No. 090381.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps located within an area bounded by Broad Street, Delaware Expressway, Pattison Avenue, Packer Avenue, Delaware River and League Island.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 090392.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps located within an area bounded by Wyoming Avenue, Ramona Avenue, Adams Avenue and Castor Avenue.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I would like to move for the adoption of an amendment that will essentially add as an exhibit to the Cancer Treatment Center's legislation. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the amendment be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
Those opposed? 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. We will now consider Bill No. 090288.
An ordinance authorizing the Commerce Director to file an application under the Main Street Program in an aggregate amount not to exceed $1 million.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman DiCicco. 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 090352.
An ordinance authorizing the Office of the City Treasurer to enter into an agreement with Wachovia Bank for the provision of payroll banking services to the City.
This 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 090437.
An ordinance authorizing the Director of Housing, on behalf of the City, to file applications with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for a Community Development Block Grant.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read Bill No. 090289.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING acquire fee simple title in parcels of land along the Delaware River and the K&T Trail.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 090361.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into an agreement with Motorola.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilwoman Krajewski. (No response.) 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 090122.
An ordinance amending Section 9-604 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Refuse Collection," by increasing the annual license fee for the various licenses required by that section.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 090123.
An ordinance amending the provisions of The Philadelphia Code regulating dumpsters.
I believe this bill is to be amended. The 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of Councilman Green, who was here earlier today and circulated a copy of the amendment, I would ask for its adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the amendment be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. We will now consider Bill No. 090290.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 46-S and relocating the curblines of the existing traffic island at the 6/11/09 - STATED - 2ND READING intersection of Hartranft Street, Penrose Avenue, 22nd Street, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. That concludes our Calendar for today. Are there speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I don't usually spend time speaking about mailings or other communications that are sent by groups, with them. Obviously, after all, people clearly have the right to express their opinion. However, in an instance when something is sent by a well-known professional organization that is so blatantly unfair, misleading and just flat-out wrong, it has to be commented on. This week the Greater Association of Philadelphia Realtors mailed a flyer citywide that disingenuously portrayed the City Council's position on the issue of property taxes. Some of the low lights of this document says, "Philadelphia's budget compromise is a sham, and if Harrisburg won't bail out the City Council, they" -- I guess that's us -"will set their sights on your home, and it's a property tax bait and switch." This propaganda implies that City Council is anxiously conspiring to raise property taxes. This is obviously a complete distortion of the facts and ultimate. First, people who understand the law -- obviously the authors of this do not -- know City Council cannot now raise real estate taxes. Secondly, the organization ignores the truth of what we all know and I think most citizens know happened regarding the originally proposed 19 percent real estate tax increase in the Administration's budget. Far from advocating to raise taxes on property owners, it was members of this Council that led the effort against such increases. In fairness -- and I think we should be fair even if they're not -- it is interesting to note that I spoke to many realtors that I know, including some members of the Board of Realtors. They were unaware of this mailing and were upset that their money was spent on such inaccuracy. I hope they communicate that feeling strongly to the Board leadership, flyer. In my opinion, if any mailing was sent and any money was spent by the Board of Realtors, instead of urging calls to Councilmembers, it should have asked for calls to state officials to help support the budget and the compromises that the Mayor and the Council worked out and that will help avoid drastic service cuts. In conclusion, I call on the Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors to just set the record straight and let their membership and the greater community know the real facts regarding City Council's position on property taxes. And, finally, I make one last simple friendly request. Next time you do something like this, how about knowing what the heck you're talking about? Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you, Madam President. I note that our bus, the Montel Williams bus, is out in the hallway as always and invite my colleagues and their constituents to take advantage of it. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I'm encouraged by what I've read in reaction to my statement last week about ethics and ethical behavior. Not because I would agree with many of the comments, but because I welcome an open and spirited public discussion about ethics and ethical behavior. This discussion is not about is a good person or a bad person. This discussion needs to be about the definition of ethics itself and who has the final say about what that definition should be. Let me begin with the definition from the dictionary. Ethics: A system of moral principles, the rules of conduct recognized in respect to a particular class of human actions or a particular group. Ethical: Pertaining to or dealing with morals or the principles of morality, pertaining to right and wrong in conduct. Today's editorial in the Philadelphia Daily News centers this argument on whether or not Mr. Creamer benefited from his actions. The editorial states, quote, "We don't believe his violation applies to government ethics. He didn't use a public office to benefit himself," end of quote. which I cited does it say anything about personal gain. What we have is a difference of opinion about the definition. Who defines what is moral or immoral when we all come to situations with our own unique perspectives? Does it matter if someone has not gained personally if what he did is viewed by some as immoral? Since the editorial distinguishes government ethics from all other forms of ethical behavior, I'd like to read the mission statement from the United States Office on Government Ethics. Quote, "to foster high ethical standards for employees and strengthen the public's confidence that the government's business is conducted with impartiality and integrity," end of quote. I don't see anything here about a personal gain. It's about public trust and employee integrity. in this Chamber last week, we can't expect our employees to adhere to ethical standards if we accept what is perceived by some as unethical behavior from those who've chosen to uphold those standards. What good is teaching our employees right and wrong behavior with respect to their jobs if we look the other way when the teacher breaks the rules? It appears that we have a two-tiered system of ethics in this government, one for the Ethics Board and one for everybody else. As I see it, there are those who enforce ethics based upon their own criteria and have determined for everyone what is right and what is wrong, who is right and who is wrong. And more personal for me, as seen by today's Daily News editorial, there are people that have condemned this body because some members have done wrong. City Council is continually stereotyped, is guilty until proven innocent, that the body as a whole has the intent to defraud the public. As a member and a leader of this Council, I am offended. We've experienced a president who has resigned in disgrace, yet we don't condemn the presidency itself. We've had police officers found guilty of criminal behavior, yet we don't say that all police officers are corrupt. This aside, I welcome an open public debate about ethics and ethical behavior. Thank you very much.
Would any member like to be recognized? (No response.)
Seeing no one, the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a motion to
Thank you, Madam President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, June 18th, 2009, 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, June 18th at 10 o'clock. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 12:25 p.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on June 11, 2009, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. ______________________________ MICHELE L. MURPHY RPR-Notary Public (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)