COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, October 1, 2009 10:10 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 MICHAEL DECKER, 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 Reverend Derick Brennan of the Canaan Baptist Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Miller. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)
Let us pray. God, we thank you for who you are. We thank you for your presence which was in this place before we arrived, and we ask that you would now space. We thank you, Lord God, for these proceedings and for all of these, your servants. We thank you for our Mayor and for our President of Council. And we thank you, Lord God, for Councilwoman Miller, who extended this invitation. We ask right now, Lord God, that you would just cover and shower all with your favor and your grace and your mercy. We thank you for these servants, Lord God, who bear the marks of self-sacrifice and unselfishness. And so, Lord God, as these proceedings move forward, we ask, Lord God, that you would exhibit your power by bringing forth vision, Lord God, vision that will not only empower and enhance the lives of the constituents of this city, but also transform communities. God, you and you alone know the difficult times that we are in right now, and so, Lord God, we need your insight, revelation, but also we need your integrity and your accountability. And so give us the courage, Lord God, to make decisions that will make a difference. Help us, Lord God, to move beyond just simply the status quo. We thank you, Lord God, for all that is going to be done, that it will help those who are the least of these among us, the most vulnerable, the young and the senior, the abused and the oppressed, those who are impoverished and living lives, Father God, that need so much support, strength and undergirding. Thank you for hearing our prayer, and we love you for all that shall be done. In the name of Jesus the Christ, we pray. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks Reverend Brennan for his invocation. be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 24th, 2009, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 24th, 2009 stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, September 24th, 2009 stand approved. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. 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 Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
We've been trying to flip him, but it hasn't been very successful.
Madam President, there are no requests for leave of absence on behalf of the republicans.
Thank you. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. Please allow me to say aklan wasallam (ph) to 15 women from 12 African countries in the United States. For 21 days, as guests of the United States Department of State, their six-day Philadelphia program is being arranged by the International Visitors Council of Philadelphia. We should know that these are women who are elected officials, academics, career, civil service and local government and public administration, non-profit representatives, journalists and NGO representatives. They are on a special program looking at women leadership in local government, and Philadelphia is one of the five United States cities they are visiting to address this theme. Our 15 women are from Iran, Egypt. We have two ladies here from Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Syria, West Bank, and Yemen. Again, we want to say aklan wasallam (ph) to these women. you, Madam President.
Thank you. If you would stand, we'd love to recognize you. Welcome. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, we all know our Ed McBride, who is the Manager of Government Relations at PECO and does a whole lot of other things, and today especially we're in great shape if we have a power outage. With us today are all -- and I repeat, all -- of the engineering managers that are meeting today here in City Hall. Part of their agenda is to discuss the business/government relations here in City Hall. So we've got a group of talented, professional engineers here in City Hall. So all the lights will be on.
If we could ask them to please stand. Welcome. (Applause.)
You're welcome. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution declaring October as "Domestic Violence Awareness Month." Will Ms. Jeannine Lisitski and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Tasco is being joined by Councilmembers Jones, Goode, Green and Miller. Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning we are honored to present this resolution declaring October as "Domestic Violence Awareness Month." Whereas, "Domestic Violence Awareness Month" is being sponsored locally by Women Against Abuse, and through their sponsorship, they are encouraging everyone to help to increase the awareness of domestic violence in our homes and communities and decrease its negative impact on Philadelphia; and
Whereas, in 2008, the Philadelphia Police Department responded to more than 137,000 domestic abuse calls and over 11,000 individuals filed for protection from abuse orders in Family Court, and domestic violence is not just a local problem, but a national issue, where more than three women a day are murdered by in the United States, and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention found that women experience two million injuries from intimate partner violence each year; and
Whereas, founded in 1976, the mission of the Women Against Abuse is to provide quality and compassionate service, in a manner that fosters self-respect and independence in the persons who have been victimized by domestic violence; and
Whereas, Women Against Abuse has grown to become one of the largest domestic violence programs in the United States, created the nation's first legal center devoted to victims of domestic violence, founded the only emergency shelter in the City exclusively for abused women and their children; and
Whereas, Women Against Abuse provides education and training to the community about resources and has partnered with the City of Philadelphia, Lutheran Settlement House, Women in Transition and Congreso de Latino Unidos to operate the Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline;
And whereas, to support victims of domestic violence, Women Against Abuse also operates a 12-unit transitional housing program called Sojourner House, which enables victims to take the crucial first steps to reclaim their lives and move forward toward a brighter future; and
Whereas, to support its mission and work, Women Against Abuse launched the iPledge Campaign as a social awareness initiative to promote knowledge about domestic violence and to build community support so that all Philadelphians will take a stand against violence. Now, therefore, be it resolved, that the Council of the City of "Domestic Violence Awareness Month." Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to representatives of Women Against Abuse as a sincere expression of City Council's gratitude, appreciation and commendation for raising the public's awareness regarding domestic violence. This bill was introduced by all the folks up here and some others in Council and supported by all members of City Council, because we just thank you so much for the wonderful work that you're doing. And I want you to know, I was around in those days when it was founded. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Good morning. I'm Jeannine Lisitski, Executive Director of Women Against Abuse. On behalf of our of domestic violence, I thank you for recognizing October as "Domestic Violence Awareness Month" in Philadelphia. Women Against Abuse serves over 10,000 victims of domestic violence each year, and while this number is staggering, there are many that we cannot serve due to underfunded programs and limited resources. This year alone we've had to turn away 2,500 women and children who needed emergency shelter. That's 2,500 women and children that were seeking safety from violence in their own home. And due to budget cuts, Women Against Abuse has had to lay off 19 staff -- that's 20 percent of our organization -- since the onset of the recession. Thereby, decreasing services to victims and their children. Support from City Council is especially meaningful during this challenging environment, and I'm truly grateful for your commitment. And know seek an end to domestic violence in Philadelphia. Finally, please join us next Thursday, October 8th at Drexel at noon. We'll be launching our iPledge Campaign. This is a citywide effort which encourages all of us to take a personal stance against domestic violence. You can sign on for the pledge at www.ipledgewaa.org. We thank you so much for all of your support. (Applause.)
We thank you for the hard work that you do and want to give recognition to our colleague Councilman Bill Greenlee for introducing the bill -(Applause.)
-- which requires the employers give leave to members of staff who are in an abusive situation and need the time off. And he's been recently honored for that, and your leadership.
And also Darrell Clarke, our Councilmember, was the co-sponsor of that bill and Jim Kenney. So thank you all very much.
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller, who will present a resolution proclaiming October 3rd and 4th as "Praise is the Cure Weekend" in Philadelphia. Will Ms. Anita Conner and those joining her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Miller is being joined by Councilmembers Tasco, Sanchez, Krajewski, Councilwoman Blackwell and Councilwoman Brown. Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. It is my pleasure to be able to introduce this resolution today for a very important health topic across the country, across the world. Proclaiming October 3rd and 4th of 2009 as "Praise is the Cure Weekend" in Philadelphia. The City Council of Philadelphia designates October 3rd and 4th of 2009 as "Praise is the Cure Weekend" in Philadelphia and encourages that all help those women and their families in managing their health and familiarizing themselves with cancer treatment options available to them.
Whereas, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States; and Whereas, sadly, African from this disease at higher rates than all other ethnic groups; and
Whereas, the purpose of Praise is the Cure is to educate underserved communities on the prevention and treatment options to help stop the spread of breast cancer, as well as celebrate and provide ongoing support to breast cancer survivors; and Whereas, PITC has evolved into a year-round campaign whose mission is to "motivate, educate and encourage African American women to obtain screenings and treatments";
And whereas, since its inception, PITC has reached over 30,000 Philadelphia area residents and raised in excess of $100,000 to support year-round program outreach efforts; and Whereas, the capstone of the year-round program is "Praise is the Cure Weekend," which will be presented as a Weekend of Hope, Health and Healing on October 3rd through the 4th, 2009 in celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month; and
Whereas, the weekend festivities will consist of a Health Fair, Breast Cancer Survivors' Pamper Party, Gospel Extravaganza Benefit Concert, Praise is the Cure Sunday and other activities; and Whereas, the Health Fair will be providing free mammograms and other health screenings, educational workshops, spa treatments and refreshments to area residents, with particular outreach to nearby homeless shelters; and
Now, therefore, be it resolved, by the City Council of Philadelphia, that October 3rd and 4th of 2009 be declared "Praise is the Cure Weekend" in Philadelphia and encourages that all help those women and their families in managing their health cancer treatment options available to them.
Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Anita T. Conner, Founder and Chair of George E. Thorn Development Center, as further evidencing the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative body. This is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 17th day of September 2009. Signed by Anna C. Verna, President of City Council. Introduced by Donna Reed Miller, Blondell Reynolds Brown and co-sponsored by all members of City Council. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President and City Council members. My name Anita Conner and I am a breast is my daughter, Carrie Conner, who is also a breast cancer survivor, and my husband, John Conner, who is our co-survivor and supporter, and we want to thank you for recognizing our efforts here today. Breast cancer doesn't discriminate. It affects the rich, the poor, the Christian, the Jew, Muslims, Caucasians, African American, Asians and Latinos. Breast cancer affects everyone, but as it was said, African American women die at much higher rates than any other ethnic group. By all rights, I shouldn't be standing here today accepting this resolution, but God spared my life, and I believe God spared my life so that I can help save somebody else's life. So my family and I, we created Praise is the Cure. And we need your help. We need your help to help save a life. We gave you a pamphlet. Read the pamphlet when you get a chance, share it others, tell your mother, your aunt, your sister, your wife, your friend, your loved ones all about breast health. Invite them out to the Weekend of Hope, Health and Healing. We have something there for everyone, even a program called Real Men Wear Pink. So, again, we want to thank you for this resolution. Help us save a life. Become an advocate for breast health. Again, thank you. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Miller, who will present a resolution proclaiming October 2009 as "National Breast Cancer Awareness Month." Will Ms. Kathy Lentini and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. Miller is being joined again by Councilmembers Tasco, Sanchez, Councilwoman Krajewski, Councilwoman Blackwell and Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. It's kind of good when you -it's sad, but it's good, because Linda Creed is no longer here, but we all went to high school together. I graduated with her sister, Connie Creed, and my sister graduated from Germantown High School with Linda Creed. So sometimes it's good to do things and you're a little bit familiar with the people. And I loved her music, loved the music. Celebrating 25 years of awareness, education and empowerment and proclaiming October 2009 as "National Breast Cancer Awareness Month." Whereas, for more than 25 years, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month has educated women about early detection, diagnosis and treatment; and
Whereas, for more than 25 years, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month has educated women about early breast cancer detection, diagnosis and treatment; and Whereas, in recognition of this important milestone, on May 17th in New York, the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month Board of Sponsors held a national summit bringing together leaders who have made significant contributions to the fight against this devastating disease; and
Whereas, the earlier that breast cancer is found, the more likely it is that treatment can be curable and that mammograms are the best screening for early detection of breast cancer; and Whereas, across the nation, the third Friday in October each year is National Mammography Day, which was first in 1993;
Whereas, on this day or throughout the month of October, radiologists provide discounted or free screening mammograms; and Whereas, mammography screenings are a woman's best chance for detecting breast cancer early, and when coupled with new treatment options, mammography screenings can significantly improve a woman's chances of survival;
And whereas, in an effort to further increase the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month impact, we are seeking to take advantage of their activities to the next level, encouraging all women to take charge of their own breast health. Whether it includes practicing regular self-breast exams or making sure to schedule an annual mammogram, every little bit counts; and
Whereas, women, public officials, advocates increased federal research and medical funding for breast cancer. The designation of the National Breast Cancer Awareness will bring attention to the need for additional funding for research of a cure. Now, therefore, be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that October 2009 is "National Breast Cancer Awareness Month" and celebrating 25 years of awareness, education and empowerment.
Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution is presented to Kathy Lentini, President of the Board of Directors for the Linda Creed Foundation, as evidence of the sincere appreciation and support of this legislative body. This is a true and correct copy of the original resolution, adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 17th day of September 2009. Verna, President of City Council and introduced by all of the ladies of City Council and co-sponsored by every member of City Council. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you, Council President and fellow Councilmembers. This is a great honor today for Linda Creed. Accompanying me is Donna Duncan, our Executive Director; Fran Orodeckis, our Development Director; and Annie, an intern learning the importance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For those of you who are not familiar with Linda Creed, Linda Creed serves over 5,000 women in our community, and they do this through outreach and education, and they provide mammograms and diagnostic tests to women who do not have insurance or do not have access. today for you to recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the importance of early detection, and we're grateful and honored to recognize the work of Linda Creed that we do in the community and that we will continue to do in our community. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Standing ovation.)
I wanted to recognize my colleagues from PECO who are here today obviously, so you really -thank you, everyone. (Applause.)
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.
Thank you. Do you have any other communications in your possession?
Thank you. The next order of business then will be the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce two resolutions.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution calling for hearings on the Art in City Hall and the One Percent for Art Programs to explore how these programs can be made to better serve the citizens of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion on the resolution.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority 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 6th and 51st Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Again, 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 indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution and one bill.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Taxes and Rents - General," by providing for a temporary tax amnesty program under which delinquent taxpayers may satisfy their past due tax obligations with forgiveness of all or a portion of the accrued interest and penalties.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing Council's Legislative Oversight Committee to hold public hearings to investigate the hearing, review and decision-making processes of the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
Again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Bill No. 090212, approved May 27, 2009, entitled "An ordinance to adopt a Capital Program for the six Fiscal Years 2010 through 2015 inclusive."
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Bill No. 090213, approved May 27, 2009, entitled "An ordinance to adopt a Fiscal 2010 Capital Budget."
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I offer two resolutions.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution proclaiming October 2009 as "Crime Prevention Month."
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority 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 12th and 49th Wards.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two resolutions co-sponsored by Greenlee, Rizzo, Miller, Jones and Green. Thank you.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution urging the Philadelphia Museum of Art to remain neutral in regards to the efforts of their security guards to form a collective bargaining unit.
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez for a motion.
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution authorizing the Council Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs to conduct hearings on the challenges faced by the City's ethnic and cultural parades.
The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Sanchez.
Thank you, Madam President. 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.)
The ayes have it and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one resolution co-sponsored by Councilman Frank Rizzo.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title.
A resolution honoring and celebrating the Philadelphia Chapter of the Guardian Civic League for its 54 years of service to minority police officers.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman 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. I offer one resolution this morning.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title.
A resolution honoring and recognizing the UniverSoul Circus upon its return to the City of Philadelphia.
Yes, Madam Chair. The record should reflect that that resolution is co-sponsored by my colleague Councilman Jones, and I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have three bills and one resolution on your behalf and all co-sponsored by various members.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 21-1700 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Publication of Notices by City," by providing that those provisions currently set to lapse on October 31, 2009 shall instead lapse at a later date.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Privilege Taxes," to provide for a tax credit to surety companies that provide construction surety bonds to Disadvantaged Business Enterprises.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Section 9-605 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Towing," and Section 12-2405, entitled "Removal or Immobilization of Parked Vehicles; Notice," to prohibit the towing of vehicles identified as reported stolen unless an attempt has been made by the Police to give the vehicle owner an opportunity to recover the vehicle.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution endorsing the American Graduation Initiative.
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Madam President, no bills or resolutions today. Thank you.
Thank you. The next order of business is reports from committees. Goode for a report from the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Commerce and Economic Development 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 Commerce and Economic Development, to which was referred Bill No. 090520, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 17-1600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Economic Opportunity Plans,' by providing that Council may by resolution determine that there are reasonable grounds to believe that a participant, contractor, project developer, or applicant for or recipient of financial assistance has failed to of that Chapter and should be subject to debarment," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 090520. (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.) 10/1/09 - STATED - 2ND READING
The ayes have it, and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bill just reported from committee, with suspension of the rules, has been deemed to have had a first reading. This bill will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar for our next session of Council. There are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar today. Therefore, the Chair 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. Bill No. 090123-AA is being amended. All other bills are being held.
Thank 10/1/09 - STATED - 2ND READING you. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the title of Bill No. 090123-AA.
An ordinance amending the provisions of The Philadelphia Code regulating dumpsters; in particular, repealing and reenacting the provisions of Section 10-722, entitled "Use of Dumpsters."
Thank you, Madam Chair. I move for the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the amendment be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the amendment has been adopted. Since we have no further bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar, I would ask if there are any speeches on the part of the minority. (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, when the powerful, the powerful become threatened. Colleagues, the purpose of this speech is to provide the truth about ACORN, an organization that has helped thousands of our constituents and has improved our city, state and nation. Recently, James O'Keefe, a conservative activist, launched a video sting operation that showed six ACORN employees acting inappropriately. These six rogue employees represent less than one percent of ACORN's workforce. According to Mr. O'Keefe's interview with the Washington Post, he launched the sting operation because the organization registers voters. What has not been widely reported is that Mr. O'Keefe visited a dozen ACORN offices from New York to LA to Miami to San Diego. At these offices ACORN employees and volunteers took the appropriate action and contacted the police. In Philadelphia, ACORN staff the police, and he was charged with a misdemeanor for disturbing a business. In addition to the challenges its attackers has launched, ACORN has launched an independent internal investigation, being led by former Massachusetts Attorney General Scott Harshbarger, which will result in measures and findings that will restore ACORN's reputation as one of the nation's premier organizations fighting for justice for ordinary Americans. Founded 40 years ago, the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now, or ACORN, has become the leading national neighborhood organization of low- and moderate-income people working to improve their communities. Throughout its history, ACORN has given power to people. 3 million people were registered by ACORN. In Philadelphia, ACORN has following: Advocated for, one, a short foreclosure moratorium, which shortly thereafter led to the widely acclaimed Philadelphia Foreclosure Diversion Pilot Program, which has saved thousands of homeowners from imminent foreclosure. ACORN organizers knocked on the doors of those eligible in order to inform them of their rights to the program. Last tax season, their tax preparers completed 2,812 tax returns, returning $4,338,089 back to our neighborhoods and $1,686,682 back into our communities through Earned Income Tax Credit, saving families $421,800 in tax preparation fees. This service grew out of a need to help people avoid costly Refund Anticipation Loan, called RALs, at H&R Block and other tax preparers. In conjunction with PGW, ACORN helped get over 1,000 Philadelphians' heat reconnected when PGW agreed to waive costly security deposits and reconnect 150 percent of poverty whose service has been terminated. And as you all will remember, back in 1999, ACORN approached City Council about the high foreclosures in Philadelphia due to predatory lending. It was through the efforts of ACORN and a number of organizations, the Urban League, the Urban Coalition, the Housing Association and this Council that drafted legislation, to protect people from predatory lenders. They were the moving force as a result of studies they had made in Philadelphia and were instrumental not only in the Philadelphia legislation but legislation in other cities throughout this country. So I want to say that while some rogue employees have made the organization -- caused them to have problems, I think overall ACORN has done an outstanding job nationally, and we certainly support them locally and Mr. O'Keefe came to the Philadelphia office. So I just wanted to go on record to say that I personally support them and could not make their meeting on Saturday and want it to be known that I publicly support the work that they have done. And they're also doing work in my area at Broad and Olney to restore and revitalize that community at the Olney area.
So thank you, Madam President, and thank you, my colleagues.
Thank you. Councilwoman Miller, did you want to be recognized?
Yes, I did. Actually, I think something is wrong with my light button anyway.
I think something is wrong with my light button. about three or four times. I just wanted to be recorded as voting aye on bills and resolutions when I was out of the Chambers.
The record will so indicate that. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. It's been said that it's better to light a candle rather than curse the darkness. Today I rise to do a little bit of both. By way of lighting a candle, as a part of the Minority Enterprise Development Week, MED Week, that will be taking place October 5th through October 9th, we will be hosting a series of workshops designed to empower minority and female companies throughout the region and take advantage of, in particular, procurement opportunities in the green economy with our local to partner with the Water Department, the Gas Works, PECO, SEPTA and the Airport to try to make these opportunities known. It is said that knowledge is power, and advanced knowledge is even more powerful. As Chair of the Committee of Transportation and Public Utilities, this is a perfect time, a perfect time to provide them with information that will, based on projections from the stimulus package coming from Washington, give them a heads-up and an advanced notice as to what kinds of opportunities that will stimulate our local economy. So we intend to have that workshop. For those people who want information about all of the workshops, they can go online to www.phillymedweek.com. That's www.phillymedweek.com. And I'm thankful to the Procurement Department and other sponsors for participating in this. That's the lighting the candle the darkness part. Many poor people in the City of Philadelphia and working-class people in our city have survived now the major brunt of the recession. They've survived our budget impasses. They've survived, as Councilwoman Tasco said, subprime lending and foreclosure, all on one word, a word called "hope." But our job is yet undone. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has helped us by providing our ability to raise the sales tax one percent, but they have yet to pass a budget. Childcare in the City of Philadelphia is not a social program alone. It is an economic development tool that allows working-class people to have daycare so that they can go and pursue an income. Some of those people have not been paid since June. There are daycare companies that are working on good faith and hope, without a paycheck. There are companies that are about to doors, we're about to open the doors, but have lost faith in that government subsidy, so, therefore, they are closed. There are working single parents that are losing their jobs because they have not been able to secure daycare. I'm cursing the darkness at this point and urging all those who have in the past been helpful at the Commonwealth to do the right thing and not just pass the budget so that employees can get paid by way of the Commonwealth, but make sure our vendors get paid so they can provide that economic development service. Finally, my colleague Wilson Goode, Jr. had an Economic Development Committee hearing on the status of inclusion by way of our city. At best, it was inadequate. At worst, it was a shame. And in cursing that darkness, it's okay, because we understand that we have to survive the economic collapse of had to deal with a budget impasse. We had to deal with all of those things, but to not have a plan post recession, post budget passage will not be accepted by this Council. I grow increasingly frustrated, like my colleagues, as to the lack of an economic development plan that allows us to cut ribbons, to create jobs, to start businesses in the City of Philadelphia. And, by the way, Council, if you haven't noticed, is getting along a lot better these days, and we will not stand by and allow inaction to be an action. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. As one who is trying to get along but just been told how well we are getting along -
Thank you, Madam President. Today I wanted to remind everyone that our Montel Williams bus, the Partnership for Prescription Assistance, is outside again to inform your colleagues and those who may come to your offices that free prescription information is available to them. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. Are there any further speeches? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, October 8th, 2009, 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council Thursday, October 8th at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. Thank you. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 11:10 a.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on October 1, 2009, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. ______________________________ MICHELE L. MURPHY RPR-Notary Public (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)