Stated Meeting, May 22, 2008

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 22, 2008 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN 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, everyone. 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 Jose Roque, Pastor of the First Christian Missionary Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Greenlee. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)

Good morning. Let's bow our heads to pray. Heavenly Father, we are in the presence of the name of your beloved son, Jesus Christ, whom we give him glory and honor. It is because of him we can come confidently before you today to ask for blessings for all elected officials. I them wisdom and guidance in electing your love that will benefit all the citizens of this great city. I pray that you bless each and every Councilperson represented here today and their families. Protect them from any danger. I also pray that you bless the Mayor of our beautiful city, Mr. Nutter, and his family. Give him strength and guidance in all decisions to be made. I pray for many blessings, Almighty God, for our Governor, Mr. Rendell, and his family and for the President of the United States, Mr. Bush. And Jabas, we pray today that you will be with me and indeed enlarge my territory, that your hand will roll with me and that you will keep me from evil that I may not cause pain, and God granted him what he requested. And now today, oh, Lord, in the name of the Father, in the name of the the name of the Holy Spirit, we declare, Philadelphia, Jesus Christ, the Lord of this great city. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. (Amen.)

The Chair thanks the Reverend for his 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, May 15, 2008, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Madam President, I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 15th stand approved.

Is there a second? (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that meeting of Thursday, May 15, 2008 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

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, there are no requests for leave of absence today.

The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.

Madam President, there are no requests for leave from the republicans.

Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown, who will present a resolution honoring the Philadelphia Society for Services to Children. Will Mr. Michael Vogel and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Brown is being joined by Councilmembers Tasco and Sanchez.

Thank you, Madam President. Good morning. Today we come together to honor the Philadelphia Society for Services to Children on 173 years of service in child abuse and neglect prevention services for vulnerable families. Whereas, over 60,000 children with someone other than their biological parent; and Whereas, the financial cost of child abuse and neglect in America is estimated at $94 billion a year; and Whereas, prevention programs help build a healthy and functioning society and is a much less expensive long-term investment; and Whereas, as one of the oldest social service agencies in the country, the Philadelphia Society for Services to Children looks to ensure the well-being of children and parents and caregivers by providing responsive services and networks directed towards strengthening families;

Whereas, the Philadelphia Society for Services to Children serves children and families through two main programs, Kids 'N Kin and FAST, which stands for Families and Schools Together; and Whereas, Kids 'N Kin supports relative caregivers caring for their family members' children due to incarceration, substance abuse, death and/or illness, helping them to overcome these challenges and keep children out of the system in a safe, nurturing home; and

Whereas, the FAST program brings together school personnel, human service professionals and substance abuse professionals with at-risk families at 37 schools throughout Philadelphia; and Whereas, 83 percent of the high-risk children served over a seven-year period through Kids 'N Kin remained out of the child welfare system, and school performance for children in FAST improved by an average of 45 percent over the last four years. Therefore, be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor the Philadelphia Society for Services to Children, of excellence in strengthening families and helping children grow up in a safe, stable family environment. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Philadelphia Society for Services to Children as evidence of sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Thank you. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Mr. Vogel for remarks.

I was told I had two minutes, so I'll read quickly. First of all, thank you, Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, Council President Verna and other Councilpeople. As the resolution stated, we have been supporting families and children in our city for a long time. In fact, PSSE is one of the oldest social service agencies in the country. Over 100 years ago, long before there was a Department of Human Services, our agency was the official agency in the City where women would turn to when they were out on the street and where children who were abandoned came to seek safety. We're still committed to helping those among us who are on the edge and in danger of falling over it. To that end, just a week from now, we will be merging with another long-serving agency here in the City, the Children's Aid Society of Pennsylvania, and together we will be stronger and have a better infrastructure with which to provide the kind of preventive supports that both of us have delivered for so long. We're not in the business of dealing with how to educate young adults after the schools have failed them. We're not in the business of dealing with the after effects of crime and addiction or even of healing the children who have been damaged while their families have must be dealt with, but we believe that these cycles that cause these tragedies can be altered. We work at altering them every day through programs like Kids 'N Kin, which provides comprehensive supports to relatives, mostly grandparents who are raising grandchildren. If you think this isn't a very big issue, then you need to know that there are over 60,000 children living in our city with someone other than their biological parents. They're among the most at risk of our children. I can stand here before you and say that the children that go through our Kids 'N Kin program, that 80 percent of them stay out of the child welfare system. Unfortunately, we only get to touch the lives of a small percentage of those children. Likewise, the FAST program, Families and Schools Together, does not activity for children or just get parents involved at school or just get them connected, get isolated parents connected with others in their community and teach parenting skills. It does all of these things. It's a research-based program that we have data to demonstrate its effectiveness. However, once again, we only manage to touch a small fraction of those in need of the services. Some of you know that I left a career in the private sector because I believe it's possible to reverse the destructive cycles that so many of our families are trapped in. I ask you, City Council, to help, to help me make a difference. We can do more than just deal with the after effects of troubled homes and the abuse and neglect of children. We know how to do it. At this time, at the beginning of a new Administration, I ask you to please find a way to optimize the utilization of the have here in the City so that we can reverse the cycles of despair, addictions, crime and violence. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you very much. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney, who will present a resolution recognizing and thanking PennDOT. Will Mr. Les Toaso and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. I see that Councilman Kenney is being joined by Councilman DiCicco and Councilwoman Krajewski.

Thank you, Madam President. We thought it would be recognize the hard work of a Pennsylvania department who supports us every day. They're often easy to criticize. People criticize them from time to time, but this particular job that they accomplished was an amazing feat in a short period of time, and we wanted to take an opportunity to thank them for their work. This is a resolution recognizing and thanking PennDOT for responding quickly to a cracked support column under I-95 between Ann and Cambria Streets. Whereas, north and southbound lanes on I-95 were closed just before midnight on Monday, March 17th after a bridge inspector discovered a large crack in a highway support column; and Whereas, the two-mile closure affected the northbound lanes from Girard to Castor Avenues and the southbound lanes from the Betsy Ross Bridge, Aramingo Avenue exit, to Girard Avenue; Whereas, inspectors first noticed the crack in October 2007, which measured a half-inch wide and four feet long. The crack was scheduled to be repaired later this year. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: And whereas, the cause of the crack can be attributed to salt and water seeping in and freezing during the winter months; and Whereas, Governor Rendell commented, "I applaud the efforts of PennDOT and all of its partners who responded so quickly to this monumental challenge. This corridor is crucial to the economic well-being of the region"; and Whereas, the section of I-95 supported by the cracked column was built in the 1960s and carries approximately 190,000 vehicles a day; and Whereas, the north and southbound lanes of I-95 were reopened commute on Thursday, March the 20th; and Whereas, PennDOT reported that eight steel plates were installed around the cracked column to provide the support necessary to reopen the interstate; and

And whereas, PennDOT's Gene Blaum stated, "While this work has been going on, engineers with the department have been continuing to analyze the design and review the calculations and determined that additional support would be necessary in those particular areas, and that's a measure that we want to take to ensure the safety"; and Whereas, prior to reopening the highway, PennDOT conducted a stress test on the repaired section of the roadway with maintenance trucks; and Whereas, PennDOT workers and the others that assisted with this repair worked through the night to ensure that the portion of I-95 reopened as quickly public safety. Now, therefore

Be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that Council does hereby recognize and thank PennDOT for responding quickly to a cracked support column under I-95 between Ann and Cambria Street and thank them for all their tireless efforts every day in keeping us safe and keeping our traffic moving. We want to thank them for being here today, too. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Mr. Toaso for remarks.

Thank you very much, Council of the City of Philadelphia. We do appreciate the recognition that you're giving us. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the City of Philadelphia for the partnership in resolving this situation, this issue, the Police, the Philadelphia Fire Department, the Philadelphia Emergency Operations Center, the Mayor's Office and the Deputy Mayor's Office for Transportation. All of us joined in a concentrated effort to get I-95 open as soon as possible, and we did that. And, again, I'd like to thank you on behalf of PennDOT and also on behalf of Specialty Engineering, the inspection services that notified us of this issue, for this recognition. Again, thank you very much. (Applause.)

Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

The Chair is pleased to recognize Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution honoring the Centennial Celebration of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. I would ask Mrs. Evelyn Sample-Oats, Regional Director, and Mrs. Lorena Marshall-Blake and those accompanying them to please join the Councilwoman at the podium. And I see that we have a very special guest joining us this morning, Councilwoman Augusta Clark. Welcome, Gussie. (Standing ovation.)

I see that Councilwoman Tasco is being joined by Councilwoman Brown.

Welcome. On two occasions we have seen red and white. Today we see pink and green. (Applause.)

We are pleased to welcome our sister sorority to honor them on the Centennial Celebration of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and declaring May 22, 2008 as Alpha Kappa Alpha Day in the City of (Applause.)

Whereas, the City of Philadelphia is pleased to honor the Centennial Celebration of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated; and Whereas, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is the oldest Greek letter organization established in America by African-American women. It was founded in 1908 by nine students led by Ethel Hagerman -- Hedgeman, I'm sorry, Hedgeman Lyle at Howard University in Washington, DC, and now counts over 200,000 members in the United States, the Caribbean, Europe and Africa; and

A point of personal privilege. Whereas, Alpha Kappa Alpha is a union of thousands of college-educated women who are bound by a powerful mystique. It is a real and moving factor in the lives of students at more than 400 institutions of higher learning. It is solvent corporations in the world -- we will fix that soon. It's one of the most solvent institutions that's controlled by African-American women; and Whereas, Alpha Kappa Alpha is an effective channel for meaningful efforts and rewarding activities and fosters constructive relationships. Through its theme, "Economics, Sisterhood and Partnerships," the sorority is a recognized force for social action and a strong ally in the continuing struggle for civil and human rights; and

Whereas, Alpha Kappa Alpha has grown, it has kept in balance two very important themes: the importance of the individual and the strength of an organization of women of courage and ability; and Whereas, the local graduate and undergraduate chapters work dutifully to provide ongoing service to the community in the areas of political awareness and education, economic literacy and financial stability, support of the black family, especially the African-American male, health-related issues, technology and education. It is fitting that the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority celebrates its 100th year of service to mankind in Washington, DC, a city rich with history. Now, therefore

Now, therefore, be it resolved, that the City of Philadelphia declares and recognizes May 22, 2008 as Alpha Kappa Alpha Day in the City of Philadelphia to recognize the Centennial Celebration of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Further resolved, that three engrossed copies of this resolution be presented to the representatives of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority as evidence of the sincere sentiment of this legislative body. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the first of May 2008. It is signed by President Verna and supported by all members of City Council. Congratulations and happy 100th birthday. (Standing ovation.)

The Chair recognizes Mrs. Sample-Oats for remarks.

To President Verna and all members of City Council, good morning. (Good morning.)

If I could have all the members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated to please stand. (Members standing.) (Applause.)

I am honored to stand before you today as the North Atlantic Regional Director of the first black Greek sorority founded 100 years capital on the campus of Howard University. We are an organization with over 250,000 members who work tirelessly to service an underprivileged and disadvantaged community. We work for those that are disadvantaged in the areas of economics, health and education, and we have committed ourselves to make their lives that much better. And even though we have members of City Council who wear different colors, we thank Councilwoman Reynolds Brown and Councilwoman Tasco, because we may wear different colors and wear different letters, but we're all in it for the same purpose. We're all sisters serving all mankind. (Applause.)

We are especially proud to have our treasured jewel, the Honorable Gussie Clark, here with us today. (Applause.)

The women chapters: Rho Theta Omega Chapter in Philadelphia, Phi Beta Omega Chapter in Montgomery County and the largest chapter in our entire region, Omega Omega Chapter, with close to 500 members. (Applause.)

So thank you, City Council, for this honor today. We are very, very proud to share this with you, and we thank you for recognizing us. And I believe we have -- okay.

I am so very pleased to be back home again, this room. (Applause.)

So familiar to me, so many of my friends. Jim Kenney sitting in my seat. I'm pleased to be a senior citizen of this group. When you've been a member 50 years, they call you a golden sorer. Well, I'm golden plus, and pleased to be here, because we are more women who wear the pink and green. We are women who are committed to making a difference socially, with a capital S, not the little S that means the dance and the picnic. We mean structurally, that makes this country better because we are here 200,000 strong. And joining with other people of like determination, we have and we will continue to make this country all that it purports to be, all that it can be, all that it will, with God's blessing, be to the glory. Thank you for letting me come back. (Applause.)

Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Madam President, AKA invites members of City Council to a meet and greet in the 12 o'clock.

Thank you.

Thank you.

The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on May 21, 2008, I signed the following bill that was passed by Council at its session on May 15, 2008: Bill No. 080407; and I am transmitting herewith for the introduction and consideration of your honorable body an ordinance constituting the ninth supplemental ordinance to the Amended and Restated General Airport Revenue Bond Ordinance; Section 19-1804 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Authorization of Net Income Tax," by revising the rate of tax, under certain terms and conditions.

Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.

That's all I have, Madam President.

Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.

Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution on your behalf and on my behalf and one ordinance.

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.

An ordinance amending Chapter 10-700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Refuse and Littering," by amending Section 10-703, entitled "Placement of Litter in Receptacles," by prohibiting the disposal of household or commercial refuse in public receptacles.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a resolution recognizing and honoring the Philadelphia International Airport for ranking the highest in overall customer satisfaction among large airports in J.D. Power and Associates' 2008 Airport Consumer Satisfaction report.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a motion.

I move 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.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce one bill and one resolution.

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.

An ordinance amending Section 12-918 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Parking for Car-Sharing Organizations," by adding locations, all under certain terms and conditions.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a resolution honoring the Philadelphia Shakespeare Festival for its commitment to producing excellent Shakespeare productions and education programming and making both accessible to all.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

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.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

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 offer one resolution sponsored by Councilman DiCicco and myself.

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.

A resolution honoring the Port Richmond residents of Almond and Schiller Streets who comforted and assisted Philadelphia Police Sergeant Stephen Liczbinski in his final moments on May 3, 2008.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.

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.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Madam President, I offer one bill, one bill on your behalf and three resolutions. I'd like to speak on two of the resolutions.

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.

An ordinance constituting the ninth supplemental ordinance to the Amended and Restated General Airport Revenue Bond Ordinance.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And an ordinance amending Section 19-1804 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Authorization of Net Income Tax," by revising the rate of tax, under certain terms and conditions.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a resolution commending the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for passing House Resolution 701 and urging them to pass House Bill 2254, which recognizes the special needs of children of incarcerated parents and establishes a task force to create a plan to address their needs.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

I'd like to speak on this resolution, Madam President. The Fifth Amendment of the Constitution states that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law. However, for many children of incarcerated parents, they are sentenced to a lifetime of struggle without due process or an opportunity for success. Incarceration of a parent has been shown to have adverse effects on a child's sense of security, trust and self-esteem. Children who have incarcerated mothers tend to exhibit withdrawal characteristics, such as unwillingness to engage in play, fear of school, frequent crying and nightmares. Children who have incarcerated fathers tend to act out, including hostile behavior, use of drugs and alcohol, and truancy and delinquent actions. Approximately 60 percent of incarcerated women in this Commonwealth are mothers of children under 18 years of age, and approximately 55 percent of incarcerated men are fathers of children under 18 years of age. Although their parents may have committed crimes, these children cannot, should not and must not be sentenced to a lifetime of pain and suffering. To address this issue, State Representative Cherelle Parker introduced and successfully passed House Resolution 701 and has introduced House Bill 2254, which together recognize the special needs of children of incarcerated parents and establishes a task force to create a plan to address these needs. Accordingly, I urge you, my colleagues, to support this resolution that commends the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for passing House Resolution 701 and call on them to pass House Bill 2254. I thank you for your support and ask for your vote.

Thank you. It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted.

And a resolution calling upon the Mayor to file lawsuits against mortgage lenders that have negatively impacted Philadelphia through foreclosures; and, if the Mayor fails to do so, authorizing Council to retain counsel to file lawsuits against these mortgage lenders.

Again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Today I take this opportunity to talk again about Philadelphia's mortgage foreclosure crisis, which is having a devastating impact on our city and communities throughout this country. According to ACORN's October 2007 Foreclosure Exposure 2: The Cost of Our Cities and Neighborhoods report, over 3,000 of the high-cost loans made in 2006 in the Philadelphia area are likely to go into foreclosure and the cost to all of the stakeholders involved will be more than $345 million. The cost represents $23 million to individual homeowners in foreclosure, $158 million to lenders and investors, $62 million to local government and $107 million and lower home values of our neighborhoods. In addition, ACORN's report demonstrates that foreclosures increase violent crimes in neighborhoods, decrease property values in neighborhoods and reduce City tax revenue, making it harder to provide good schools, police protection, code enforcement and other services. Like Philadelphia, many cities, citizens and communities are suffering from the same negative multi-factor impact that has been brought on by massive foreclosures. To address this foreclosure crisis, cities across the country are now taking action. For example, Baltimore, Buffalo, Cleveland and Minneapolis have sued various mortgage lenders as a strategy to address this crisis and to recoup lost city tax revenue, stop the strain on city services and reclaim neighborhoods devastated by this crisis. On March 27th, we unanimously passed Resolution 080331, which called for a moratorium on sheriff's sales based on residential mortgage foreclosures. As a result of our action, the First Judicial District has created a residential mortgage foreclosure diversion pilot program, which serves as a stopgap measure before a homeowner faces sheriff's sales. We applaud this innovative action. However, in comparison to other cities, we need to take action in a more comprehensive way to truly address those entities that are blighting our communities and city. This resolution is an initial step in this process, and I urge my colleagues to support this call to action. Thank you, Madam President, and thank you, my colleagues. I ask you for your support.

Thank you. It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted.

And a resolution honoring the career of Anthony Lewis. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

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.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.

Thank you, Madam President. Today I have no bills or resolutions.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.

Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.

The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.

Thank you, Madam President. Today I offer one bill co-sponsored by Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown and Councilman Bill Greenlee.

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.

An ordinance amending Section 14-2007 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Historic Buildings, Structures, Sites, Objects and Districts," to permit the historic designation of the public interior portion of buildings, and making technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

Thank you, Madam President. No bills or resolutions today.

Thank you. 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. I offer one bill.

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.

An ordinance amending Section 9-407 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Tour Passenger Carriers," by removing the east side of 6th Street between Market and Arch Streets as a tour passenger loading zoning location and adding the west side of 5th Street between Chestnut and Market Streets as a tour passenger loading zone location, all under certain terms and conditions.

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.

Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.

Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I have one resolution, but I am awaiting another resolution from the Redevelopment Authority that hopefully will get here before the session ends.

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.

A resolution honoring Strawberry Mansion High School Boys Basketball Team for their successful 2008 season and their appearance in the PIAA Class AA State Basketball Championship.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.

I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.

No bills or resolutions today, Madam President.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.

Madam President, I have one resolution co-sponsored by Councilwoman Donna Reed Miller and sponsored by all members of City Council.

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.

A resolution recognizing, honoring, celebrating and thanking the Chestnut Hill Local for its invaluable contributions to the Chestnut Hill community and the City of Philadelphia on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.

Madam President, I move for the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski for a report on the Committee on Appropriations.

Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Appropriations offers three bills with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Appropriations, to which was referred Bill No. 080470, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 from the General Fund, the City Representative and the Director of Commerce to be allocated to the General Fund, the Mayor, the Department of Recreation, the Director of Finance - Fringe Benefits and the City Commissioners"; and Bill No. 080471, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Managing Director to the Police Department, the District Attorney, the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania"; and Bill No. 080472, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 from the Managing Director to the Mayor's Office of Community Services," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.

Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill 080470, 080471, 080472. (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 indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

All those in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee on Law and Government.

Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Law and Government 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 Law and Government, to which was referred Bill No. 080424, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 2 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'City-County Consolidation,' by adding a new Chapter providing that prior to the recording of any deed, a check of record ownership be conducted by the Department of Records, appropriate documentation be submitted to the Department with certain deeds and requirements for the delivery of deeds to the Department of Records be met; providing for notification to the record owner of the recording of any deed; providing for exemptions and making certain technical changes, 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. Greenlee.

Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 080424. (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.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez for a report from

Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on License and Inspection reports five 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 Licenses and Inspections, to which was referred Bill No. 080004, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-605 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Towing,' by requiring every person licensed to engage in the business of towing vehicles to accept credit cards and debit cards in payment of towing and other charges"; and Bill No. 080085, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, providing for protections against sale of cars in need repairs, commonly known as a 'lemon law,' all under certain terms and conditions"; and Bill No. 080165, entitled "An ordinance amending Subcode A of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code by amending the fee schedule for various construction-related activities, all under certain terms and conditions"; and Bill No. 080301, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 9-613 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Junk Dealers,' by prohibiting junk dealers from transacting business with respect to certain items, all under certain terms and conditions"; and Bill No. 080373, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 12-1120 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Abandoned Vehicles,' by providing that towing and storage fees be assessed in accordance with the provisions of Section 12-2406.1, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.

Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day on Bill Nos. 080004, 080085, 080165, 080301 and 080373. (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 indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? 5/22/08 - STATED - 1ST READING (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the bills on the First Reading Calendar.

Bill No. 080401, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Grays Ferry Avenue, 31st Street.

The Chair agrees.

And Bill No. 080470, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 from the General Fund, the City Representative and Director of Finance to be allocated to the General Fund, the Mayor, the Department of Recreation, the 5/22/08 - STATED - 1ST READING Director of Finance - Fringe Benefits and City Commissioners.

The Chair agrees.

And Bill No. 080471, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Managing Director to the Police Department, District Attorney, the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania.

The Chair agrees.

And Bill No. 080472, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Managing Director to the Mayor's Office of Community Services.

The Chair agrees.

And Bill No. 080424, an ordinance amending Title 2 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 5/22/08 - STATED - 1ST READING "City-County Consolidation," by adding a new Chapter providing that prior to the recording of any deed, a check of record ownership be conducted by the Department of Records; providing for notification to the record owner of the recording of any deed, all under certain terms and conditions.

The Chair agrees.

And Bill No. 080004, an ordinance amending Section 9-605 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Towing," by requiring every person licensed to engage in the business of towing vehicles to accept credit cards and debit cards in payment of towing.

The Chair agrees.

And Bill No. 080085, an ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code by adding a new Section 9-630, entitled "Sale of Used Cars," providing for the protection 5/22/08 - STATED - 1ST READING against sale of cars in need of substantial repairs, commonly known as a "lemon law."

The Chair agrees.

And Bill No. 080165, an ordinance amending Subcode A of Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code by amending the fee schedule for various construction-related activities, all under certain terms and conditions.

The Chair agrees.

And Bill No. 080301, an ordinance amending Section 9-613 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Junk Dealers," by prohibiting junk dealers from transacting business with respect to certain items, all under certain terms and conditions.

The Chair agrees.

And Bill No. 080373, an ordinance amending Section 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING 12-1120 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Abandoned Vehicles," by providing that towing and storage fees be assessed in accordance with the provisions of Section 12-2406.1, under certain terms and conditions.

The Chair agrees. That completes our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for the purpose of calling up bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar to be considered today.

Thank you, Madam President. Today, Madam President, Bill 080022, Bill 080154, Bill 080155, Bill 080156, 080158, 080159, 080160, 080161, 080168, 080465, Resolution 080173, Bill 080362, 080377, 080162, 080163, 080164, 080374, 080375, 080404 and 080408 are being called up for second reading and final passage for the 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Calendar today. All other bills will be held, except Bill 080380 will be amended.

Thank you. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of Bill No. 080022.

An ordinance amending Section 19-2604 of The Philadelphia Code, relating to tax rates, credits and alternative tax computations for the business privilege tax, by reducing certain tax rates, 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.

Councilwoman Blackwell.

Aye.

Councilman Clarke. 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Green.

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilman Kelly.

Aye.

Councilman Kenney.

Aye.

Councilwoman Krajewski.

Aye.

Councilwoman Miller.

Aye. 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Aye.

Councilman Rizzo.

Aye.

Councilwoman Sanchez.

Aye.

Councilwoman Tasco.

Aye.

Council President Verna.

Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080154.

An ordinance to adopt a Capital Program for the six 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Fiscal Years 2009 to 2014 inclusive.

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 Blackwell.

Aye.

Councilman Clarke.

Aye.

Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Green.

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye.

Councilman Jones. 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilman Kelly.

Aye.

Councilman Kenney.

Aye.

Councilwoman Krajewski.

Aye.

Councilwoman Miller.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Aye.

Councilman Rizzo.

Aye.

Councilwoman Sanchez.

Aye.

Councilwoman 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING Tasco.

Aye.

Council President Verna.

Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 080155.

An ordinance to adopt a Fiscal 2009 Capital Budget.

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 Blackwell.

Aye.

Councilman Clarke. 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Green.

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilman Kelly.

Aye.

Councilman Kenney.

Aye.

Councilwoman Krajewski.

Aye.

Councilwoman Miller.

Aye. 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Aye.

Councilman Rizzo.

Aye.

Councilwoman Sanchez.

Aye.

Councilwoman Tasco.

Aye.

Council President Verna.

Aye. The ayes are 17; 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. 080156.

An ordinance 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING adopting the Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2009.

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 Blackwell.

Aye.

Councilman Clarke.

Aye.

Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Green.

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye. 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilman Kelly.

Aye.

Councilman Kenney.

Aye.

Councilwoman Krajewski.

Aye.

Councilwoman Miller.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Aye.

Councilman Rizzo.

Aye.

Councilwoman Sanchez.

Aye. 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilwoman Tasco.

Aye.

Council President Verna.

Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080158.

An ordinance amending Section 19-1801 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Authorization of Tax," to impose a tax on real estate within the City of Philadelphia, 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 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING call the roll.

Councilwoman Blackwell.

Aye.

Councilman Clarke.

Aye.

Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Green.

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilman Kelly.

Aye.

Councilman Kenney.

Aye. 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilwoman Krajewski.

Aye.

Councilwoman Miller.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Aye.

Councilman Rizzo.

Aye.

Councilwoman Sanchez.

Aye.

Councilwoman Tasco.

Aye.

Council President Verna.

Aye. The ayes are 17; the nays are 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 080159.

An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "School Tax Authorization," to further authorize the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia to impose a tax on the use or occupancy of real estate within the School District of Philadelphia.

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 Blackwell.

Aye.

Councilman Clarke. 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Green.

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilman Kelly.

Aye.

Councilman Kenney.

Aye.

Councilwoman Krajewski.

Aye.

Councilwoman Miller.

Aye. 5/22/08 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Aye.

Councilman Rizzo.

Aye.

Councilwoman Sanchez.

Aye.

Councilwoman Tasco.

Aye.

Council President Verna.