Stated Meeting, October 4, 2012

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, October 4, 2012 10:30 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES KENNEY COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO MICHAEL A. DECKER,

Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)

I will ask that the guests and visitors please retire behind the rail and ask Councilmembers to please take their seats. It is clear we have established a quorum. Council will come to order. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Dr. Wilson Goode, Sr. (Standing ovation.)

And, Dr. Goode, you don't mind, as always, I always still call you Mayor. Dr. Goode is the Associate Minister of First Baptist Church of Paschall. He is here today as the guest of obviously Councilman W. Wilson Goode, Jr. Dr. Goode. Everyone rise. (Members and guests rise.)

Let us bow our heads, please. Dear God, we are so glad that we can come to you both in times of need and times of thanksgiving. We come first this morning in times of thanksgiving. We give thanks for these talented men and women you've set apart to help govern this city. We thank you for the unique gifts you've given each of them and the unselfish manner in which they carry out their responsibilities. So we come also in a time of need. Too many black men and boys dying and fewer people seem to care. Too many black boys dropping out of school. Too many children going to bed hungry and waking up hungry in the morning. Too many families in homeless shelters. Too many citizens in prison. So, God, this is my prayer, that these men and women you have set not accumulators of wealth but distributors of resources to those who need it the most, that they will seek fairness and justice for all. They will seek a level playing field for all in this city. Well, God, if we could close this way. We started by simply thanking you for your unselfish, incredible love that you have for us. We thank you for your forgiving spirit. So, God, we ask you now to bless this city. Give those here and elsewhere the vision to see us to a better future and a better day. Guard those who lead with wisdom and discernment. Grant them direction. Teach them to know right from wrong and always do what is right. God, we don't want to worry you anymore. You know exactly what we need. So we just ask you to do what only you can do. Bless them that are here. Bless this city. Encourage those who lead in this Council that they may empower those marginalized, and may we all have love and respect one for another. So, God, we honor you and thank you for all that you do for us. Even when we do things that we don't deserve your forgiveness, you forgive us. We honor you as an awesome God. We honor you as a loving God, and we thank you for just being who you are. And so we magnify your name. We adore your name. We love you. We ask this prayer in the name of Jesus who is the Christ and for his sake. Amen. (Amen.)

Thank you, Reverend. (Applause.)

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

Thank you so much, Reverend. order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 27th, 2012. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 27th, 2012 be approved. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 27, 2012 stand approved. All in favor say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The Journal is approved. The next order of business is the request for leaves of absence. Jones.

Mr. President, on behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence.

Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill, leaves of absence on behalf of the minority.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the republicans, leave of absence is requested for Councilman Dennis O'Brien.

Thank you. Leave shall be granted. The Chair will currently dispense with the regular order of business to welcome all guests and visitors today. We hope that your visit today will be one that you will cherish and that you will want to come back very shortly. So, again, thank you, and we I would like at this time to recognize Councilwoman Brown.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. I simply want to give an extra special hello and thank you to the work of the NAACP and the Women's Christian Alliance in their celebration of what has come to be known as the Parent and Family Appreciation Month. I thank you for allowing us to salute them this morning. And, again, we want to say a huge thank you to Quibila Divine and her team of parents who are helping us realize the important value of parents being actively engaged in the academic life of their children. Let's salute them, Mr. President.

I ask them to please rise. (Applause.)

for your great work. At this time, I would like to recognize Councilman Curtis Jones, who will present a resolution recognizing October 2012 as Crime Prevention Month. Would Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. We have Councilman Henon, Councilman Johnson, and Councilwoman Tasco joining Councilman Jones, and also Councilman Squilla and Councilwoman Blackwell and Councilman Greenlee.

This morning I am honored to be joined by Police Commissioner Ramsey to acknowledge Crime Prevention Month, as well as members of the community town watch advisory, concerned citizens, because crime prevention is a verb. It's an action word that takes a team of individuals both from government and from our respective communities that we call home. To that end, we will a resolution recognizing October as "Crime Prevention Month." Whereas, in 1984, the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) designated October as Crime Prevention Month; and

Whereas, every year then since, government agencies, civic groups, schools, businesses, and youth organizations have reached out to educate the public, showcase their accomplishments, and explore new partnerships during this special month; and

Whereas, in essence, October has become the official month for recognizing and celebrating the practice of crime prevention, while promoting awareness of important issues such as victimization, volunteerism, and creating safer, more caring communities; and

Whereas, successful crime prevention efforts on the local, state, and national levels; and Whereas, the efforts throughout the month generate enthusiasm for prevention so it can grow stronger and become more widespread; and

Whereas, truly effective prevention requires addressing the causes of crime and reducing opportunities for it to occur. Everyone, no matter what age, position or capacity, can and must take individual action to stop crime; and

Whereas, the problem of crime, violence, and drug abuse are best addressed through local action supported by city and state policies; partnerships that actively involve the local police and community residents are the key to preventing crime; and

Whereas, Council's Annual Crime Prevention Month Kit is full of reproducible brochures, tips, and resources to help you prevent crime and can be found at www.mcgruffstore.org; now therefore

Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that October 2012 is hereby recognized as Crime Prevention Month. This is authored by myself, Councilwoman Tasco, Councilman Dennis O'Brien, Councilman Squilla, and all members of City Council. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Commissioner Ramsey for remarks, please. Commissioner, recognize you for remarks, please. Thank you. COMMISSIONER RAMSEY: Thank you, Mr. President, and I want to thank all the members of City Council for passing this resolution. It means a lot here in not only the Police Department but all the citizens and residents of Philadelphia. And I want to thank our town watch partners, all of our community members, everyone who helps us tirelessly fight crime on a regular basis. Ironically, October happens to be one month of the year where some of our highest crime statistics take place. A lot of people look at summer months, but actually October is a month that is consistently high in all kinds of crime. So it's very appropriate that October be the month that we redouble our efforts to prevent crime from occurring in the first place. So thank you all very much. (Applause.)

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

Thank you, Commissioner. time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, who will present a resolution honoring Jeri Lynne Johnson, founder of the Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra. Would Ms. Johnson and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. And joining Councilman Johnson we have Councilman Goode and Councilwoman Brown and Councilman Squilla and also Councilwoman Bass and Councilwoman Tasco.

Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)

How is everybody feeling today? Pretty good? That's good. Today I am proud and honored to have this opportunity to honor a young lady who is a leader in the Philadelphia community, a mentor to young women and young boys, and during this current climate of violence and often misguided youth, I've always admired her extraordinary talents and leadership in the area of music and also, more importantly, inspiring our young people to go on and do great things. And at this time, I'm going to bring on my colleague, Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, to offer some kind words as well to our honoree.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Good morning. My heart always gets exceedingly happy when I meet young women like the musician we're going to present this morning who is deeply devoted to their craft. She is an artist in every sense of the word, and for those of us who love the arts, we might say she's an artiste. And literally and figuratively, she stands in a class by herself. She has captured a piece of the music here in town, and I would simply advise all of you to pay a lot of attention, because you haven't heard think about a young woman who is indeed on the incline of her career and is going to -- has already begun to make a real place in the hearts of other younger women who absolutely love the arts. So pay attention over the next many decades to what she is doing. And it's a thrill that we're saluting her today. I might add that my office actually spotted her five years ago and saluted her as one of the next generation of women leaders who is going to lead this town when it comes to music in ways we've never, ever seen before, and we salute this young lady this morning.

And I don't know if any of you pay attention to some of the events that we host around City Hall this past summer. She was actually outside conducting an orchestra with some young people, and I kind of came out and kind of had an opportunity her great work. So at this time, this resolution, honoring, recognizing, and commending Jeri Lynne Johnson, founder of the Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra, for her extraordinary service and dedication as a musician, conductor, and historian. Whereas, Jeri Lynne Johnson began conducting during her doctoral studies in music theory and history at the University of Chicago; and

Whereas, while a student in Chicago, Ms. Johnson was awarded the 1998 Jorge Mester Conducting Scholarship to attend the Aspen Music Festival; and Whereas, Ms. Johnson's teachers and mentors have included Sir Simon Rattle, Marin Alsop, and Daniel Barenboim; and

Whereas, Ms. Johnson was engaged by the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia to serve as the ensemble's assistant conductor from 2000 2004. Her debut at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts won high praise from the Philadelphia Inquirer; and Whereas, Ms. Johnson's unique approach to music and her warm embrace of new audiences has set a new standard for creating diversity for orchestral ensembles; and

Whereas, in 2005, Ms. Johnson made history as the first African American woman to win an international conducting prize when she was awarded the Taki Concordia Conducting Fellowship; and Whereas, in 2007, Ms. Johnson founded the Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra, the only professional orchestra in the region, and one of the few in the country, to champion ethnic classical music; and

Whereas, the Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra is dedicated to normalizing diversity in classical music by presenting concerts of the highest artistic and educational standard and performed by diverse musicians; and Whereas, Ms. Johnson has been featured in numerous magazines and newspapers as well as television and radio shows including 20/20 and the Tavis Smiley Show. Ms. Johnson was heralded as one of today's leading conductors on the NBC Today Show; and

Whereas, Ms. Johnson has received countless honors and awards including being named a 2011 Woman of Distinction by the Philadelphia Business Journal, a Creative Connector by Leadership Philadelphia, 2010 British American Project Fellow, a 2010 Philly 360 Creative Ambassador by the Greater Philadelphia Tourism and Marketing Corporation, a 2010 Honoree in Arts and Culture for the Power Shift, and a recipient of the 2009 Leeway Transformation Award; now therefore Resolved, by the Council of the Philadelphia, that we hereby honor, recognize, and commend Jeri Lynne Johnson, founder of the Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra, for her extraordinary service and dedication as a musician, conductor, and historian. And, Jeri Lynne, I just want to present this citation to you officially and say congratulations. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Ms. Johnson for remarks.

I want to thank Councilman Kenyatta Johnson and all of the Councilmembers up here for their very lovely remarks. It's always very humbling to hear your accomplishments read out loud. I am so grateful and honored to be here. I would not be here, I have to say, without the work of my wonderful chamber orchestra, who I am here representing as well. I want to say one brief thing that we do that is germane to the proceedings that go on here. We teach young people in after-school programs who are often at risk. I teach them how to conduct. And the goal for this program -- we call it orchestrating leadership -- is not to make them world-class musicians as we are, but to teach them the power and the privilege of choice, that they have a responsibility to take action in their lives, to get reengaged in their educations, and to become better citizens. And so classical music through Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra is truly an act of performing the arts that are by the people, of the people, and for the people. And so I am really, really honored to be a part of Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra, to found this great institution, and to work alongside City Council, the School District and to really align the arts with the work that improve the lives of children. Thank you so much. Get out and vote, please. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you. Council will be at ease.

I'm sorry. This is one of those award situations where you forget to thank the people. My mother could not be here, but she's with us. She just had another appointment. My father is here. He's wonderful. We have the same name, by the way, Jerry Johnson. And my brother, Jonathan Johnson, is here as well. I have a wonderfully supportive family and friends and colleagues who are here in this room. Thank you all very much. (Applause.) (Council at ease.)

Thank you. At this time, the Chair again recognizes Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, who will present a citation recognizing the Friends of Schuylkill Banks. Would Mr. James Price and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. And the Councilman is joined by Councilman Henon, Councilman Oh, Councilman Squilla, and Councilwoman Bass.

Good morning again. At this time, this is an organization in which plays a critical role in my overall health and development. Most of you may or may not know, I'm somewhat of a health buff in terms of my eating habits and also making sure that I maintain my health so I can keep up with this fast-paced position that I have. And so I spend a lot of time on the Schuylkill River Trail. It's City of Philadelphia. I believe that the Schuylkill River Trail can compete with any other trail throughout this country. I often, with my wife, ride our bike from the beginning of the trail at 25th and Walnut all the way up to Valley Forge, but one time we did it in cars and then I noticed we had to come back. And so I probably won't do that again. But as a State Representative, I remember hosting hearings, and I remember Councilman Jones was just elected and he came down to support all my efforts, because we wanted to bring exposure and, more importantly, funding to the development of the Schuylkill River Trail. And so today I'm honored and privileged and pleased to have this opportunity to present a citation to the Friends of the Schuylkill River Trail. And the citation reads: The Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to honor and recognize Schuylkill Banks for its work to revitalize the Tidal Schuylkill River from the Fairmount Dam to the Delaware River. Whereas, Friends of the Schuylkill Banks was founded in 2010 to provide financial and volunteer support for the Schuylkill River Development Corporation in its mission to revitalize the Tidal Schuylkill River and from the Fairmount Park Dam to the Delaware River; and

Whereas, Friends of Schuylkill Banks has played a vital role in Philadelphia's park system, the large regional trail network, and the planned east coast greenway connecting Maine to Key West; and Whereas, Friends of Schuylkill Banks focuses on grassroot fundraising efforts and engage current and future users of the banks of the Schuylkill River and utilizes individual contributions to help SRDC improve maintenance, increase programming, and focus on capital projects, fundraising, and implementation; and

Whereas, in 2004, a revitalization project along the Schuylkill River brought Fairmount Park's River Drive to the heart of Center City, giving Philadelphia residents the opportunity to enjoy scenic banks of the Schuylkill River; and Whereas, in 2011, the Grays Ferry Crescent opened between 34th Street and Wharton Street, bringing waterfront access to many South and West Philadelphia neighborhoods for the first time, while promoting outdoor activities, exercise, and environmental appreciation; and

Whereas, in 2012, several additional segments and improvement projects are operational, creating further linkages to communities on both sides of the river, increasing residents' access to open space, and active transportation and commuting; and

Whereas, Friends of Schuylkill Banks' commitment to the revitalization of the Schuylkill River benefits all Philadelphians by providing recreation opportunities and promoting healthy outdoor activities.

Therefore, by virtue of this citation, the Council of the City of Philadelphia does hereby honor and recognize the Friends of the Schuylkill Banks for their outstanding service to the community. With the appreciation for all it does for the City, we extend the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body. And at this particular time, I want to ask Mr. Price to come up, and I would like to present you this citation on behalf of the City Council of Philadelphia. (Applause.)

The for remarks.

Good morning, everyone. My name is James Price. I'm the founder and co-chair of the Friends of Schuylkill Banks. Friends of Schuylkill Banks is an all-volunteer non-profit that acts as an extra fundraising arm for the Schuylkill River Development Corporation. In September of 2010, we had our first fundraiser, recruited 70 people for a beautiful evening and boat cruise out on the river. That night we made our first donation to SRDC for $500. We've been hard at work ever since, and just last month, we held our Schuylkill Soiree, recruited 250 people, and raised over $3,500 for the Schuylkill Banks. We're just getting started and we have big plans. FOSB is so grateful to Councilman Johnson for recognizing our efforts. Thank you, Councilman. I want to quickly thank SRDC me. I also want to thank Board Chair Jerry Sweeney. Thank you also to the Friends of Schuylkill Banks Board of Directors and Co-Chair Sydney Waldron. I think it's safe to say all of us have a dream and vision of seeing this trail extend from Locust Street down to South Street, which is already happening right now, onto Bartram's Garden and eventually down to the Delaware River. With all of us working together, along with the continued support of City Council and Mayor Nutter, I know we can realize this dream. Thank you very much. (Applause.)

Council will be at ease.

I just realized I forgot to thank my mother, Rosalyn Price. I love you, mom. (Council at ease.)

And presentation, at this time I'd like to recognize Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, who will present a citation recognizing October as Philly Plays Scrabble Month. Would Ms. Marciene Mattleman and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. Councilwoman is joined by Councilwoman Sanchez, Councilman Jones, and also Councilwoman Brown.

Thank you, Mr. President. We're pleased to make this presentation, City Council, City of Philadelphia citation recognizing and declaring October as Philly Plays Scrabble Month. The Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to recognize and declare October as Philly Plays Scrabble Month as an annual event in the City of Philadelphia; and

And whereas, literacy of its citizens is of Philadelphia for its workforce, for parents to help their children, and for the City's economic vibrancy; and Whereas, ASAP, also known as After School Activities Partnerships, and the Free Library have shown that literacy is achieved in many diverse ways; and

Whereas, research has shown that Scrabble expands literacy skills while having fun; and Whereas, during October, adults who love the game of Scrabble are eager to share their skills with young people, either for pleasure or as a competition, can foster learning and create love of words and their meanings; and

Whereas, those who enjoy playing competitively will have an opportunity to be involved in a non-rated championship match, bringing excitement to the City of Philadelphia; and

Therefore, by virtue of this citation, the Council of the City of Philadelphia does hereby recognize and declare October as Philly Plays Scrabble Month as an annual event in the City of Philadelphia. We honor those who highlight and support Scrabble as a means of developing a more literate population, and extend sincere respect and admiration of our legislative body. Thank you, Ms. Mattleman and all concerned. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Dr. Mattleman at this time.

Thank you. I want to thank Councilwoman Blackwell, Sanchez Quinones, Reynolds Brown, and Curtis Jones for being good enough to recognize this important day, and I'm pleased to see Mayor Goode here. I don't know if he's still here, but he brought me to the whole field of literacy and yesterday, if you pick up the Daily News today, you'll see that Philly Plays Scrabble started because we had Annette Hall -- Annette John-Hall and Ronnie Polaneczky. Annette John-Hall is from the Inquirer and Ronnie Polaneczky is from the Daily News, and they sparred. And I won't even tell you who won the game, but they kicked off Scrabble. And maybe next year we're going to get Wilson Goode, Jr., who I know is a Scrabble aficionado, to play somebody and we'll see how he does. How many people in here play Scrabble? You know it's good and you know it's important, and it's so important for kids, because it's a wonderful way to improve your literacy skills. It's estimated that 40,000 kids are alone and unsupervised during the afternoon hours 3:00 to 6:00, which police have identified as the most dangerous for young people. And since 2002 when ASAP started, the lives of kids are even worse - more poverty, more crime, more dysfunctional families. Last year's flash mobs and recent shooting incident on the subway bring to light the need for engaging kids in activities in the afternoon to help the activities that help them see their consequences of their actions. Certainly Scrabble and chess, which is important to us as well, and drama and debate all help kids see what's the next move. ASAP serves more than 5,000 kids every year in initiatives that are all tied to academic performance. They correlate with what happens in the classroom. We have our directories today. All the Councilpeople got them. These are about a thousand sites in the City that really tell parents and caregivers and youth workers where they can find places that will be safe and sustainable for kids, and that's terribly important. Scrabble community. It goes all the way back to 1945. Scrabble started with an unemployed lawyer or accountant, I think, and he was just looking to do something, and it's grown enormously important in the City. And what we do with Philly Plays Scrabble Month is try to get people -- who are you people who play Scrabble -- to do a Scrabble club for kids once a week, because we depend on volunteers such as you. We have with us this morning Justin Ennis, who is our Executive Director; Leah Wright, Scrabble Coordinator; and a new person in town (unintelligible) who is with PNC Bank, who is our program officer. PNC is our lead literacy sponsor. So I want to thank you all and for making sure that kids in the City have a better chance to learn after school. Thank you.

Thank you. (Applause.)

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

Thank you. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Mr. Decker, 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 September 29, 2012, I signed the following bill that was passed by Council at its session on September 27, 2012: Bill No. 120643. And I am transmitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable the Procurement Commissioner and the Free Library of Philadelphia, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a sublease agreement for the leasing of personal computers and associated equipment, to include related maintenance and other services, from the Philadelphia Municipal Authority, for the use of the Free Library of Philadelphia; and An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by revising and clarifying certain provisions and making technical changes; and amending various other Titles to make conforming changes, all under certain terms and conditions.

Thank you. Do you have any other messages, Mr. Decker?

I have none, Mr. President.

Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. Councilman Kenney here? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have one privileged resolution today.

Thank you, Councilwoman.

A privileged resolution recognizing and commending the West Philadelphia High School on their 100th Anniversary.

That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Greenlee.

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill on behalf of the Administration and one resolution on your behalf.

Thank you.

An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by revising and clarifying certain provisions and making technical changes; and amending various other Titles to make conforming changes, all under certain terms and conditions.

That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Twenty-Eighth and Forty-Seventh Wards of the City of Philadelphia.

That resolution will be placed on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Henon.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have two bills, one resolution, one of the bills co-introduced by yourself, Council President, and Councilman Kenney.

Thank you, Councilman.

An ordinance amending Title 19 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Finance, Taxes and Collections," to provide for a private right of action to enforce certain tax laws, including penalties for non-payment.

That bill will be referred to committee.

And an ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions," by amending Section 9-1004, entitled "Contractors," to add additional requirements for obtaining and displaying contractor licenses, and to further provide for regulation, penalties and enforcement.

That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a privileged resolution recognizing November 2012 as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.

That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Mr. President, I offer one bill.

Thank you, Councilwoman.

An ordinance establishing a no truck parking regulation on 74th Avenue, between Ogontz Avenue and Washington Lane, both sides.

That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Johnson.

Mr. President, I have one bill.

Thank you, Councilman.

An ordinance amending Section 6 of Bill No. 120519, entitled "An ordinance authorizing 2303 Bainbridge Street to construct, own and maintain various encroachments within the City right-of-way on the north side of Bainbridge Street between South 24th Street and Grays Ferry Avenue.

That bill will be referred to committee. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have two bills.

Thank you, Councilwoman.

An ordinance establishing a one-way regulation on West Loudon Street, from North 5th Street to North 6th Street, westbound.

That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And an ordinance establishing a no truck parking regulation on Kinsey Street, between Hedge Street and Paul Street, north side.

That bill will also be referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.

Thank you, Councilman. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Goode.

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer no bills or resolutions.

Thank you, Councilman. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Brown.

Good morning, Mr. President. I offer one bill and one resolution.

Thank you, Councilwoman.

An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Section 14-603, entitled "Use-Specific Standards," by revising requirements relating to family day care, all under certain terms and conditions.

That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution supporting House Resolution 840 which urges The Pennsylvania State University to use the endowment created pursuant to the consent decree with the National Collegiate Athletic Association to fund Pennsylvania's children's advocacy centers.

Councilwoman, you want that on for next week?

Please, Mr. President.

Thank you. That resolution will be placed on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have two bills and two privileged resolutions.

Thank you, Councilman.

One co-sponsored by Councilman Johnson.

Thank you.

An ordinance establishing a one-way regulation on North Dewey Street, from Market Street to Arch Street, northbound.

That bill will be referred to committee.

And an ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Traffic Code," to establish a towing zone location on Midvale Avenue; all under certain terms and conditions.

That bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a privileged resolution acknowledging the skills, contributions and employment needs of individuals with disabilities by declaring October as Disability Employment Awareness Month in Philadelphia.

That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution proclaiming November, 2012 as "Lung Cancer Awareness Month" in Philadelphia and urging all who work, live, or study in the city to learn more about lung cancer and lung cancer prevention while taking steps toward making lung cancer a public health priority.

That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.

Mr. President, I have no bills or resolutions.

Thank you, Councilman. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Squilla.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.

Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have two bills, one on behalf of the Administration.

Thank you.

An ordinance authorizing the Procurement Commissioner and the Free Library of Philadelphia to enter into a sublease agreement for the leasing of personal computers and associated equipment, to include related maintenance and other services, from the Philadelphia Municipal Authority.

That bill will be referred to the appropriate

And an ordinance establishing a one-way regulation on West Seymore Street, from Morris Street to Wayne Avenue, eastbound.

That bill will also be referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one privileged resolution.

Thank you, Councilman.

A privileged resolution recognizing November 2012 as National Family Caregivers Month in the City of Philadelphia.

That resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The next order of business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilman from the Committee on Rules.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Rules reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 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. 120397, entitled "An ordinance continuing the Port Richmond Industrial Development Enterprise Neighborhood Improvement District beyond its termination date in the area bounded generally by the north side of Allegheny Avenue, west side of Memphis Street between Allegheny Avenue and East Westmoreland Street, south side of East Westmoreland Street, properties facing west along the east side of Tulip Street, the north side of Venango Street, and the west side of Amber Street, continuing Port Richmond Industrial Development Enterprise, Inc., a Pennsylvania non-profit corporation, as the Neighborhood Improvement District Management Association for the District"; and Bill No. 120645, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Zoning and Planning,' by making, revising, and consolidating certain regulations regarding flood protection, and by further repealing Chapter 10-1100A of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Development in Defined Floodplain Areas,'" respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 120397 and 120645. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended this day as to permit the first reading of Bill No. 120397 and 120645. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. These bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones for a report from the Committee on Public Safety.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Public Safety reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read the report.

The Committee on Public Safety, to which was referred Bill No. 120725, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Traffic Code,' by providing for prohibitions relating to all-terrain vehicles, and for penalties and enforcement, 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 Councilman Jones.

Thank you again, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 120725. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended this day as to permit first reading of Bill No. 120725. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. This bill will be placed on today's Final Reading Calendar -First Reading. The next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills that have just been read and reported from 2ND READING committee with suspension of the rules have been deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for the next session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of calling up all bills and resolutions on the Final Passage.

Thank you again, Mr. President. The following resolutions and bills are being called up for Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today: Nos. 120758, 120759, 120760, 120765, 120767, 120769, 120770, 120650, 120534, 120563, 120564, 120566, 120567, 120653, 120657, 120659, 120660. All other bills and resolutions are being held.

Thank you, Councilman. We will now go to public comment. Before we vote on the bills and resolutions on the Final Passage, the public comment will be as follows: If you are interested in testifying on bills and resolutions that are on the Final Passage Calendar today, you must sign up at the table to my left. The public comment will be as follows: There's a podium in the middle of the Council. You will be given three minutes. We limit you to three minutes because we want to make sure that everybody has an opportunity to speak. There's a device on the podium. When the light turns green, it is your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, it means that you have 30 seconds before your time is up. And then the light will turn red and the microphone will be terminated. Mr. Decker, will you please read the name of the first individual who is interested in testifying.

Gloria Gilman, commenting on 120650. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning, Mr. President and honorable members of Council. The Pennsylvania Project is a not-for-profit, non-partisan Pennsylvania public policy organization that seeks to educate and advocate on behalf of new public policies that we believe are needed to ensure widespread economic opportunity and prosperity for all the people of Pennsylvania. Central to creating economic opportunity in a modern economy is broad access to sustained and affordable credit for businesses, individuals, families, students, and even municipal governments. In the aftermath of the collapse of the too-big-to-fail U.S. banking giants and their subsequent rescue, there was and continues to be a severe contraction in the availability of credit in Pennsylvania and across the nation, and the cost of such credit as is available is often grotesquely out of proportion to the cost of funds provided to the major banks by the Federal Reserve. We applaud the efforts of Council and the sponsors of this legislation to examine the lending practices in the City of Philadelphia of the banks with which the City does business. If similar undertakings in other major American cities are a guide -- and we think they are -- we believe the following will be demonstrated: One, significant parts of the population of the City are unserved or underserved by any banking institutions and are prey to payday banks and similarly exploitive banking services. Two, small business lending remains far below 2007 levels. Three, businesses of less than 12 employees are almost completely locked out of credit markets. Four, the City presently has little clout with the banks with which it does business and little opportunity to direct lending to areas of greatest need and opportunity. However, we urge City Council to go beyond a review of bank lending practices and instead review City banking practices and look for new models that will ensure that City funds collected from the people of the City in taxes, fees, permits, fines, and other sources are banked in ways that ensure the maximum amount is circulated within the City to ensure the affordable credit that can drive economic development and job creation. One way to do that is to create a public bank of Philadelphia to hold all City revenues and assets and partner with community banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions within the City to increase the volume and lower the cost of credit to individuals and businesses. Such a bank, modeled on the hugely successful Bank of North Dakota, can also generate significant new non-tax revenue for the City as well as lower the costs of municipal borrowing. Since 2010, 20 states and a growing number of municipalities have initiated legislation to form or study formation of a public bank. Sustained and affordable credit is vital to ongoing economic opportunity, job creation, and a broadly shared prosperity for all Philadelphians, all Pennsylvanians, and indeed all Americans. The creation of a Responsible Banking Review Committee is a very positive action on the part of the City Council, and we applaud Mr. Goode and other members who have brought this bill forward and urge its unanimous passage. But we urge Council to not only examine the lending practices of banks, but to examine the banking practices of the City to find new ways to keep the money of the people of the City of Philadelphia circulating and working in Philadelphia. Thank you.

Thank you.

Robert Williams, commenting on 120534. (Witness approached podium.)

First of all, I'd like to thank Councilwoman Blackwell for not supporting this bill in committee. My name is Robert Williams. I'm a 28-year-old Temple University graduate, and I've been skateboarding in Philadelphia since 1997. I'm voicing my concern about this amendment for the following reasons: Number one, the language and rhetoric used in this bill is too vague and open-ended; and, number two, the level of punishment is far too high for the acts committed. It leaves too much up to the arresting officer. Examples I'd like to address are as follows: On , Section 2, Subsection (c), it says, in regards to institutional vandalism, "any courthouse, historic monument or landmark, museum or civic shrine." Under this in Subsections ([d]e) and ([e]f), it says "the grounds occupied by any facility set forth in Subsection 2(a) and any property located in any facility set forth in Subsection 2(a)." Does this mean that skating in any park or space that has one of these listed items could be grounds for the 90-day jail sentence or $2,000 fine, even if I was to be skating -- even if I was to not actually skate the physical monument itself? This is unclear and unreasonable. You also use the word "artwork" in this amendment, but choose never to define what that encompasses. This should be clearly defined. You also include in Subsection 2(g) the word "sub-base or supporting structure," but go into no detail on defining what that is. At this point, pretty much any slab of concrete could be misconstrued as a supporting structure, and I believe this is unfair. Under Prohibited Conduct, both point number one, you choose to combine ethnic intimidation and institutional vandalism in the same sentence, but everywhere else in this bill you keep them separate. There's no correlation between these two issues, so I suggest that they be separate bullet points in this location or even separate bills entirely. In relation to this, I notice that in 10-201 Definitions, you do not have a clearly defined ethnic intimidation definition. Now, I know that skateboarders are not defined as an ethnicity, but this amendment and severe level of punishment are in fact intimidation and a threat to us all. Within skateboarding, biking or roller blading mentioned in this bill, there are people of different races and ethnicities, and I feel that by passing this amendment, you will, in effect, morally violate your own law. Thus, I suggest to the Council that you either strike down this amendment or you table this amendment for several more weeks to make the appropriate reductions and penalties, needed definitions and explanations to make this law more focused, defined, and less open-ended. Because as you have it right now, I believe you have potentially disenfranchised thousands of Philadelphians and have created the opportunity to destroy a lot of lives and futures within this amendment of young and old citizens of the City. Thank you.

Thank you. (Applause.)

Steve Miller, commenting on 120534. (Witness approached podium.)

I'd like to first thank you for having us here to speak and share our side of this story. My name is Steve Miller. I'm owner of an Exit Skateboard Shop located here in Philadelphia based in the Northern Liberties neighborhood. I'm a lifetime Philadelphia resident, entrepreneur, artist and, most importantly, I am a skateboarder. I am here today to address the hugely negative consequences of this bill, not only for skateboarders, but the City and our local culture as a whole. First and foremost, this bill's penalty, simply put, is insane. A $2,000 fine and 90 days imprisonment is an incredibly harsh and unfair punishment. It turns our kids into criminals, not for doing drugs or engaging in violent crime, but rather for participating in an athletic and productive activity, something that enhances one's health and well-being, and has been proven to keep kids away from drugs and violence, which brings me to my second problem: the bill's designation of what is subject to these fines and punishment. Skateboarders can receive a $2,000 fine and 90 days imprisonment for skating on what the bill quotes "any publicly accessible outdoor artwork or memorial, whether or not publicly owned." Now, I'm sorry. Excuse me for a second to sound like an art student here. I still am confused what is art. And this has been a hundred-year debate that has continued to go on, but what scares me so much is that a debate that is usually held within coffee shops or art galleries is now brought to the streets of Philadelphia. And if you find yourself on the losing side of this argument, you're in fact now a criminal, facing 90 days worth of prison. You might not have a job, but you will be defined as a criminal for the rest of your life. This scares me. And I'm sorry, but the fact of the matter is, the ability to determine what is and what isn't art, publicly accessible or privately owned, is not a learned ability, and the children of the City, some of which who are in fact skateboarders, have not naturally developed this ability, and also, quite frankly, I believe that the arresting officers have not either. They are not qualified to determine what is and what isn't art. As a lifetime Philadelphia resident and an appreciator of the arts and history, I honestly believe that art is everywhere around us. It is our entire city. And what scares me about this bill is, if that is the case, then I am in fact, and all the children of the City that do skateboard, are forbidden to skate anywhere in the City of Philadelphia, because the City is in fact art in itself. The murkiness of this bill scares me. I believe that you should reconsider it, strike it down or convene in the future, but as it stands, it is in fact insane. Thank you. (Applause.)

John Puca, commenting on 120534. (Witness approached podium.)

Honorable Council, my name is John Puca. I'm also a lifelong resident of Philadelphia and a skateboarder since 1988. I'll make this brief as possible. My sentiments are the same of the two gentlemen that came before you earlier. I think it is targeting a specific part of the population in Philadelphia. Also, the penalty is very severe, considering you have children sliding on smooth marble. Thank you, and please strike this down. (Applause.)

Thank you.

Anne Gemmell, commenting on 120650. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning, City Council. My name is Anne Gemmell. I'm the Political Director at Fight for Philly. I'm here to testify in support of Bill 120650, which would create a Responsible Banking Committee. Thanks, Councilman Goode, for continuing your leadership on bank accountability issues. Reporting requirements already in place are good, but given the rapid expansion of our banks and the financial instruments that they use and their banking practices, banks are no longer really tied to the community. They are huge global entities. Our hope is that the Responsible Banking Committee will pass and provide a place to gather and process the significant amount of information about our banks' behaviors in the global marketplace so that we can evaluate their practices and impact on our community. But now Fight for Philly, we have no delusions that local communities will be able to control large global financial practices, but the issue here and the goal is not really about control. It's about having a conversation and providing that space. So I think the Responsible Banking Committee is a great step, and it would provide a place to broaden the civic dialogue about banks, behemoth banks, and their impact on municipal finances. Furthermore, it is yet another step forward for Philadelphia, which, thanks to Councilman Goode's leadership, is a national model for bank accountability. And, lastly, as more and more municipalities ask these questions, let's not dilute ourselves. If just Philadelphia is doing this, it hardly will have an impact, but if Philadelphia models and other cities adopt our best practices in bank accountability, suddenly you have a chorus of what's been called "might." Cities are small customers in the scope of these banks, but if all of these voices start asking similar questions, then together they'll be really difficult to ignore, and the hope is that banking practices change. This is not a committee designed to punish banks, but a committee designed to have a conversation, provide a space to connect citizens who are feeling the impact of banks and larger global practices with cities in the middle and the choices that we as a municipality make in the middle. So please vote yes on 120650, and we look forward to working together on that.

Thank you.

Ashley Crozier. (No response.)

Ashley Crozier. (No response.)

Robert Dulecki, commenting on 120534. (Witness approached podium.)

Thank you for having me. My name is Robert Dulecki. The few people that summarized it pretty well before, I just wanted to add a few comments. I think anyone would agree that the act of riding bicycles and skateboards in our community is a healthy activity for the youth of our city. It gets them out in front -- from out in front of the TV screens and being physically active, which in turn helps curb the childhood obesity epidemic that's gripping our country today. It gives the youth a positive outlet and helps build self-esteem, be it achieving personal accomplishment and building friendships, to name a few. It helps channel their energy towards a positive activity instead of down all the avenues of negativity that plague a good number of our city youth right now. Now, we have a bill that criminalizes activity with no clear terms. It's a Band-Aid for a minor issue. So some people think there's a problem with the youth riding bikes and skateboards in public places like Love Park and City Hall. This bill mercilessly burdens the working parents of these children with outrageous fines and imprisonment, no less. The solution is constructing the public space to be beneficial to all citizens, including our youth. There were (unintelligible) being rebuilt right now. It's not difficult to design a multi-use public space that can also withstand the use of skateboards and bike riders. It's a public space. To summarize, this bill is completely absurd in its current form. Let's find a solution that actually benefits all citizens, including our youth, the future of our great city. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you.

Henry Barnum, commenting on 120534. (Witness approached podium.) (Mr. Barnum testifying through sign language interpreter.) THE INTERPRETER: Good morning, everybody. Good morning, Councilman, City Council, and also the Philadelphia lawyers that are here in regards to skateboarding. If they are having an enjoyable activity and refraining from drugs and making trouble, then I think they're having fun and have more of a positive impact on the City of Philadelphia. There might be deaf or hard-of-hearing skateboarders as well, and if they get arrested and get in trouble, the policeman might not make the appropriate decision. It doesn't mean that they're involved with drugs and other illegal activities. They're just out there having fun and having a positive experience, which will impact the City. You see a lot of that being advertised on television, and it's better -- it should not be outlawed and criminalized. I think that would increase the angst against the City. I think it's better to really just increase the love and the fun of these youth. Am I right? (Applause.) THE INTERPRETER: The Council should really strike this bill and really do their homework to really analyze what the problems are and really identify what art is very clearly. Thank you. (Applause.)

Jeremy Girard, commenting on 120534. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning, Councilman, Councilmembers. I'd just like to say that I've been a citizen of Philadelphia for almost a quarter of my life, and like many other people I know, I was attracted to the City of Philadelphia because of skateboarding. And many people who don't skateboard may not know this, but international tourists are attracted to Philadelphia because of skateboarding. And I have embraced the culture here and the music and everything about the City because of that. And, you know, I think that the City actually owes this particular part of their community a great deal, and in passing this bill would completely ostracize that part of the community. And I just think that -- I learned recently that in the year 2000, the X Games were brought to Philadelphia because of skateboarding, and that raised something like $80 million in revenue for the City. I really think skateboarding in Philadelphia is only benefiting the City and not hurting it, and this bill will ruin that, and I propose it be struck down. Thank you very much. (Applause.)

Thank you.

There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.

Thank you, Mr. Decker.

If I could be heard now, Mr. President.

Since we're talking, let's -

Since we're talking, I will make a statement then. We all appreciate the energy and creativity of Philadelphians, especially the young, vibrant section of our community, many of whom are represented by people who enjoy skateboarding. It's a wonderful activity, biking and roller blading. In this situation, however, we're coming across a conflict, and this actually is a proposal from the Administration, which I agree with. If I didn't agree with it, I would not sponsor it here. At the end of the day, we have an issue over space and use. And no one is trying to prevent people from skateboarding or doing healthy activities, but there is what we understand to be sacred ground. And oftentimes it is young people who were, through no will of their own, taken into combat and killed there and they did not return home. They are police officers and firefighters whose families are without a father and a provider. And those of us who remain behind have got no way to recognize them or appreciate them but to give them a piece of ground and make it hallowed. This is not a playground, and I don't think people sitting here disagree with that. I don't think they disagree with the notion that a piece of marble or cement or a piece of brick that was dedicated by those who loved those people would be respected and not damaged. We're not asking people not to skateboard in any place in Philadelphia, but in those places where we memorialize those who died before their time in public service or in service of their country. Those places are not many times paid for or maintained by public dollars. They are maintained by those people who were 18 or 19 years old when these acts occurred and who are now 50 and 55 and 60 and they cannot police those areas. They raise the funds. They care take it. They stand outside. And unfortunately, there is a history of skateboards that are damaging either these memorials or these public arts with great cost. I think there are shoppers and shoplifters. I think to take a small group of skateboarders who continuously damage this property, whether it's the image of our city and the public art that we support or the memorials that we dedicate to those who have passed and died, that there's not a lot of these spaces. I think it's a matter of self-policing. You know the ones. You can skate in Love Park. You can skate in places, unless there is a sign that says no skateboarding and unless there are people who don't have common courtesy that tries some of these outlandish tricks while seniors and senior citizens and persons in wheelchairs and young children are sharing that space. The issue is to police yourselves and we won't have these laws. The punishment is actually this so that you may understand it. If there is someone who is skateboarding on a memorial that is dedicated to a soldier, a sailor, a marine, an Air Force person, a firefighter, a police officer, there should be a sign posted that says no skateboarding. A police officer who does issue a citation, if you pay that citation, it's $75, and it doesn't go past that. If for some reason that person wants to contest that, that's fine. If you win, you win in court, but the judge has the option based on the testimony of escalating that if there is egregious, egregious violations. I would hope that everyone in here who enjoys skateboarding enjoys it in a way that is very positive for this city and that you would not condone people whose skateboards are flying in the middle of children, senior citizens or who are flying off of artwork and causing tens of thousands of dollars of damage or skateboarding and damaging memorials to people who have died in public service. That is what this law is.

Ultimately it will be up to the judge as to how egregious the matter is, as often it is, but I would hope that people would understand, using your own common sense and common courtesy, that you're welcome to skateboard in roads and playgrounds, in parks. We're building skateboard parks. We're doing all those things, but you yourselves and your friends and talking to those who may not be your friends should exercise common courtesy and common decency in respecting those particular areas. There's faults on our city's part. We don't post clearly, and certainly, as you know, we don't enforce. There's an issue coming up of how we enforce the public spaces in this city, and as we approach that, we certainly would love your involvement in letting our city know how we should properly enforce this so that we're not impinging upon your activities, which we do encourage, but let us also know how you will police up some of your fellow skateboarders who are causing this damage. Thank you.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

Thank you, Mr. President. I voted against this legislation and will vote against it again today. I believe that if we -- as has been said, the X Games did bring millions and millions of dollars to our city. And to the issues that my colleague mentions, certainly we know my predecessor, the late and great Congressman Lucien Blackwell, served in the Korean conflict. All of us in this Council respect the rights of those who have died for our country and those who have serviced them, but nowhere is that mentioned in the legislation. Nowhere are we dealing with the posting of signs or the lack thereof. Nowhere are we dealing with the fact that we have a $300 fine on the books. Nowhere are we talking about enforcement of that. What we have done with this legislation is talk about imprisoning people for 90 days who certainly deface property. We're talking about raising a fine to $2,000. And we believe that maybe there's something we can do. Certainly skateboarders are picked on and singled out, and we believe that maybe there is something that we need to do, but the legislation, as also has been said, does not define artwork, and it is not, in my opinion, prepared to the extent that we can do the right thing by those who have serviced our country well and we can do the right thing by the young people who skateboard and that we can do the right thing to make this a law that is better and that respects everybody and respects those who have serviced our country. I believe, Mr. President, that really we should hold this legislation and try to make it something that works for everybody rather than move ahead and certainly disrespect people in our city who just want to have fun or who just want to skateboard, and who are not trying to disrespect all of those people and public artwork that honors those who certainly deserve to be honored. So I ask again if we could hold this legislation and come up with something that does the right thing and honors people and certainly doesn't offend other people in our city who certainly have rights as well. Thank you, Mr. President. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.

Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to say I thought that the comment period here was extremely useful to me. I think some excellent points were made about the lack of clarity with respect to some of the definitions, what will apply. I also -- it's not clear to me why this is not already a misdemeanor, destruction of property if you do harm on purpose on private or public property and other laws apply that wouldn't be imposed just on skateboarders or other particular segments of the community having to be singled out in a piece of legislation. And I personally would like the time to understand these issues better. Obviously supporting the theme of Councilman Oh's comments, I'd like to understand these issues better and perhaps look at some amendments that make the definitions far more clearer before I'd be in favor of voting for this legislation. So I'd ask that it be held today so that we can take another look at some of the specific issues that were raised today before we proceed, and if that is not able to be done, I'll be voting no. Thank you.

Thank you. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh.

Thank you very much, Mr. President. First, I'd like to thank the skateboarders for coming out here today, because you're exercising your democratic rights and privileges and you have spoken out. I do believe that there is no need to rush legislation, that there's no deadline that we're facing, and that rushed legislation is not necessarily very good legislation. I think all of us have our opinions. Certainly mine are pretty firm. However, there's always room for improvement. And in light of my colleagues' requests and the people that have voiced their concerns, we should hold this matter to get the opinions of some of our citizens who are here today as well as those of our veterans and some of our public spaces to see if we can't tweak this legislation to make it more clear, and I would hope at the end of this process, we would have the support of everyone as best we can that at least they felt they had a fair say in this process. So I would move to hold this legislation.

Thank you, Councilman. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.

Thank you, Mr. President. This might be the first time in the history of comment period where actually something got accomplished. (Applause.)

And while I totally agree with Councilman Oh relative to the sanctity of things like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, I'm not Vietnam veteran age, but I was close to it. It would seem to me that a lot of people whose names are inshrined on that wall, including a second cousin of mine, a cousin of my mother's, would be the same type of spirit and personality that is embodied in some of these skateboarders, because it was the '60s and '70s and people were a little rebellious at that time too. So I think there's a kindred spirit in many ways between these young folks and those folks who went and served their country and didn't come home. From a housekeeping standpoint, I would appreciate if there would be some way if you could dry dock this bill or put it in a special place so that it doesn't appear on the Calendar every week for the next five or six or seven weeks until we figure this out. While I respect everything that was said today, I don't think I need to hear it again week after week after week. So if there's some technical way which you can not withdraw the bill necessarily but put it somewhere that we can all talk about it but not talk about it every Thursday would be a helpful suggestion that I would like to make to you as President. So any way you can figure that out, I'd appreciate it.

Thank you. Well, thank you, Councilman. At this point, still being a relatively new Council President, I will probably at this point follow the time-honored 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING position of allowing the sponsor of the bill to determine that particular process at this point. So the fact that Councilman Oh has said and clearly indicated that he's not only willing to hold it today and have further discussion, and knowing during this most recent budget process how Councilman Oh participated, I think that he's a person of his word. So I feel comfortable at this time, but I understand being a veteran of Council, I do understand your concern. Thank you. So let the record reflect that Councilman Oh has requested that Bill 120534 be held. Thank you, Councilman. At this time, we'd like to consider bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker, would you please read the title of Resolution No. 120758.

A resolution authorizing the use of Neighborhood 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING Transformation Initiative bond proceeds to acquire title reports, plot plans, legal descriptions and appraisals.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.

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

Moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. Resolution 120758 is adopted. Mr. Decker, Resolution No. 120759.

A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Twenty-Fourth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.

The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

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

It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING ayes have it. Resolution 120759 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 120760.

A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Twenty-Eighth, Twenty-Ninth, Thirty-Second and Thirty-Seventh Wards of the City of Philadelphia.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.

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

10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING Moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. 120760 is adopted. Mr. Decker, No. 120765.

A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Twenty-First and Thirty-Eighth Wards of the City of Philadelphia.

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption. 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING (Duly seconded.)

Moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. Resolution 120765 is adopted. Mr. Decker, No. 120767.

A resolution authorizing the use of Neighborhood Transformation Initiative bond proceeds to acquire title reports, plot plans, legal descriptions and appraisals.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.

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

10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING Moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. Resolution 120767 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 120769.

A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Seventeenth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. Resolution 120769 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 120770.

A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Wister III Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 5128 Wakefield Street.

The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Bass.

I move for 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. 120770 is adopted. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill No. 120650.

An ordinance amending Chapter 19-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "City Funds Deposits, Investments, Disbursements," by authorizing the establishment of a Responsible Banking Review Committee.

This bill having been read on two separate days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, please call the 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Blackwell. (No response.)

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Green.

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye.

Councilman Henon.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilman Kenney.

Aye. 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Oh.

Aye.

Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez. (No response.)

Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilwoman Tasco.

Aye.

Council President Clarke.

Aye. That number, Mr. Decker?

The ayes are 14.

Mr. President? 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING

I'm sorry. Councilwoman Blackwell is back.

Aye.

Thank you, Councilwoman. 15?

The ayes are 15.

The ayes are 15; the nays are zero. The bill passes. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill No. 120534. After all that debate, I forgot that we're holding it. Sorry. Mr. Decker, I'm sorry. Please read the title of Bill No. 120563.

An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Brill Street, both sides, Frankford Avenue to Darrah Street.

This bill having been read on two separate days, the question now, shall the bill pass finally. Please call the roll. 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Blackwell.

Aye.

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Green.

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye.

Councilman Henon.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilman Kenney.

Aye.

Councilman 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Oh.

Aye.

Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.

Aye.

Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilwoman Tasco.

Aye.

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. The bill passes. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 120564.

An ordinance 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING establishing a parking regulation on Ellsworth Street, north side, 2nd Street to Front Street.

This bill having been read on two separate days, the question now, shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, please call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Blackwell.

Aye.

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Green.

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye.

Councilman Henon.

Aye. 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilman Kenney.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Oh.

Aye.

Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.

Aye.

Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilwoman Tasco. 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.

Thank you, Mr. President. My apologies. I had to step out of the room. I want to make sure that I am voting aye on the previous bills before I came back into the room.

Thank you, Councilwoman. The record shall reflect that. Mr. Decker, please read the title of Bill No. 120566.

An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Iseminger Street, west side, Porter Street to Ritner Street.

This bill having been read on two separate 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING days, the question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, please call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Blackwell.

Aye.

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Green.

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye.

Councilman Henon.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye. 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilman Kenney.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Oh.

Aye.

Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.

Aye.

Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilwoman Tasco.

Aye.

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING zero. A majority of all members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 120567.

An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Fitzwater Street, north side, 13th Street to Juniper Street.

This bill having been read on two separate occasions, the question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, please call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Blackwell.

Aye.

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Green. 10/4/12 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye.

Councilman Henon.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.