COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, February 5, 2005 10:15 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILMAN FRANK J. DICICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN JUAN RAMOS COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. The Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats and visitors will retire to the seats behind the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Rabbi Winokur from Society Hill Synagogue. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Cohen. All guests and members will please rise.
Good morning. It is a privilege and honor to give the invocation this morning as the Council begins its conducting of business. Let us all pray for the strength, for the endurance, for the intelligence and perhaps most of all for the heart and soul to do the business at hand. We are, all of us in this room, plagued perhaps with the problem of being human beings. Sometimes we human beings lose a little bit of sight of the big picture here to do. Let us all hope and pray that we find the strength, that there is divine guidance to help us continue to focus on the big picture and to do the business at hand with a view for the good of all in Philadelphia, and let us say amen.
The Chair thanks Rabbi Winokur for his very inspiring invocation. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, January 29, 2004. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, January 29th, stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, 29, 2004, stand approved. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries. And the Journal of the Meeting of Thursday, January 29, 2004, is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence. And the Chair recognize Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. There are no requests for leaves of absence on the part of the majority.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Madam President, we have one request for leave of absence
Thank you. The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all Members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council Session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our City. We have a tradition of welcoming the Girl Scouts to City Council during their annual cookie drive, the scouts' primary fund raising each year. Today, I am especially pleased to welcome Melissa Weissman, a member of Brownie Troop 564. Would Ms. Weissman and her parents please step forward at the podium. (Applause.)
Councilmembers can certainly help themselves to the cookies. time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown who will present a resolution honoring the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. Would Ms. Marcella Jones-Hamed and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium?
Good morning. While we are waiting for our guests to come to the podium, I'd like to cease the moment and ask my colleagues to give a hearty welcome to students from the City Year Program, which we know is a national program founded under the leadership of former President Bill Clinton, that calls for young people to make a contribution the worlds that they live in. So would the young people from City Year please stand so we can see who you are? (Applause.)
Honoring the Association for the Study of African American Life and History on the occasion of Black History Month. Whereas citizens of the United history since 1926, first as Negro History Week and then as Black History Month; and Whereas, the celebration of black history month and more importantly the study of African American history can trace its roots to one on Dr. Carter C. Woodson; and Whereas, the Harvard-trained doctor Woodson realizing the distortion and lack of documentation of blacks on the annals of history decided that he would dedicate is life to correcting the record as well as filling the void; and Whereas, Dr. Woodson established the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History now called the Association for the Study of Afro-American Life and History in 1915, and a year later founded the widely respected Journal of Negro History as an effort to ensure that black Americans held their proper place in American history; and
Whereas, now in the 89th year, the ASALH can list a number of activities and promotions that point to the succeeding in their mission, not the least of which is the work that they do with teachers, community groups and government leaders to ensure that the vision of Dr. Woodson is indeed realized; and Whereas, in Philadelphia we have our very own chapter of the ASALH, the 1929 Philadelphia Branch which does tremendous work in the promotion of African American history and culture. Now, therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor the Association for the Study of African American Life and History and Association the Black History Month. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the 1929 Philadelphia branch of the ASALH and for their hard work and efforts in the promotion of black history as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Signed by Council President and cosponsored by all Members of Council. Congratulations. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes Ms. Jones-Hamed for remarks.
Good morning. I am Marcella Jones, the President of the 1929 Branch of the Association. A son of slaves, Carter G. Woodson was the second African American to receive a Ph.D. from Harvard University. In 1915, Dr. Carter G. Woodson organized the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. The mission of the group is to promote, preserve, interpret, research, and disseminate African American history and culture. In 1929, not very far from here at 16th and Jefferson at the home of Judge Raymond Pace Alexander, with Dr. Woodson in attendance, the 1929 Branch was organized. Judge Raymond Pace Alexander in the 1950s sat in this very body. He was a member of City Council. In fact, he represented the same section of the City that Mayor John F. Street in 1929, Judge Raymond Pace Alexander was elected the first president. The branch continuously meets at the Berean Institute the fourth Sunday of each month at 2:30. And each of you is welcome to join those meetings. The theme for African American History Month and for the entire year is the 50th anniversary focused on the 1954 Brown versus the Board of Education decision in which the United States Supreme Court declared that separate but equal was unconstitutional. It is in this spirit and based on this historic legacy with gratitude to all involved that the 1929 Branch accepts and receives this proclamation acknowledging the grandeur of African American history. We thank you. (Applause.)
All of you know that I have not been blessed with the gift of song, but we're fortunate to have among us those who have. So to lead is in Lift Every Voice and Sing, please welcome Aaron Gooding.
Everyone, please stand. (Singing.) (Applause.) UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: I just want to say that the Council needs to be very proud of the beautiful Chambers. They cleaned up the leak, and it looks beautiful.
At this time, the Chair once again recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown who will present a resolution honoring the Annual African American Children's Book Fair on the occasion of their 12th anniversary. Will Ms. Vanesse J. Llyod-Sgambati and Mr. E.B. Lewis and those accompanying them please join the Councilwoman at the podium? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. While we are waiting for the on your desk to come forward, please take a look at it. We have with us E.B. Lewis, the person, for real, who illustrated this wonderful book. In my next life, I'm coming back as an author, hopefully, with the ability to have had the gift of words for children. So I'm pleased and actually excited to present this citation to Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati who is our City's premier literary agent. Often times when individuals are ready to lift up or promote their book, they know in the City of Philadelphia to contact Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati, the founder of the African American children's Book Project. Whereas, for over a decade, the African American Book Fair has enhanced multiculturalism in our City utilizing the joy of reading as a tool; and Whereas, the importance of book fairs cannot be understated, as for many of our youth use reading to better the world around them and use books to help develop into well-educated adults; and Whereas, one of the most important reasons to encourage reading in our children is that studies show that the more our young people read, the more likely they are to make positive life-style decisions as they grow older; and Whereas, strictly judging by attendance, the fair is a tremendous success as well over 3500 people attended the event last year and it's growing every single year; and Whereas, rich or poor, no one leaves empty handed as posters, bookmarkers, and raffle books are distributed free of charge to attendees; and Whereas, the books themselves are priced at a level where they are more affordable than in many of the book stores in our area; and Whereas, one of the esteemed illustrators in attendance will be Philadelphia's very own E.B. Lewis, the recipient of the highly prized 2003 Coretta Scott King award; and Whereas, the 12th Annual African American Book Fair will be held free of charge this Saturday, February 7th from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Community College of Philadelphia at 17th and Spring Garden Streets. Now, therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor and salute you, Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati for the African American children's Book Project; and you, Mr. Illustrator E.B. Lewis, on the occasion of this African American children's experience. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to representative of the African American Children's Book Project and illustrator E.B. Lewis for your hard work and efforts in the promotion of children literacy as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Signed by the President of our City Council, Anna C. Verna; introduced by Blondell Reynolds; sponsored by all Members of the Philadelphia City Council. you.
The Chair recognize our honorees for brief remarks.
I've often been in Council with clients, so it is truly an honor to be acknowledged for something that I'm very passionate about, and that's books. I'd like to thank the Members of City Council and especially Blondell Reynolds Brown who has made education a priority in her role as a representative of the people. From the beginning, she has been instrumental in guiding us. And special thanks to her staff members, Silvia and David. Over 12 years on a cold, frosty morning, I hosted the first African American Children's Book Fair. It was Black History Month, and I felt that children's books were being left out of the cultural calendar. Many said the reason was that there was no interest, but I felt if you presented good books and authors and illustrators like E.B. Lewis, they would come. Well, over 250 people attended that first event, and by far this was it was also an affirmation that African Americans do read and do buy books. Each year, the fair has grown and, in fact, last year over 3500 people attended this event with one goal in mind: To celebrate reading. No singing, no dancing, just good books. So in response, I founded the African American Children's Book Project which serves to promote and preserve African American children's books. Your acknowledgment of our efforts this morning is nourishing in our quest to keep the literary flames lighted. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Good morning. Thank you Councilwoman Brown. I want to thank you for this great honor and recognition of my work and the work that's being done in the City with Vanesse Sgambati and the Children's Book Conference that is held now for 12 years. This is a great recognition by the esteemed City Council constituents. It is an honor made more special by the fact that the Members of this Council are even more mindful or are mindful of the value and importance of young people in Philadelphia and the region. It is this audience I too feel privileged to serve. Thank you. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco who will present a resolution honoring the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition on the occasion of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. Will Ms. Denise Pride and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium?
Madam President, I ask Councilman Mariano and Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown to join us. They are cosponsors of this resolution.
Thank you. On Tuesday, Madam President, the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition held a press conference in the Mayor's Reception Room to focus in on the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS in this City. In 1981, there was one reported case. In 2003, we have over 16,000 reported cases, and the majority of those cases are in the African American community. So we're here today to support the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition to spread the word about the HIV/AIDS epidemic and to support their effort to focus in on programs this week. This resolution honoring and commending the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition on the occasion of National Black HIV/AIDS. Whereas, AIDS is the number one killer of African American men and women between the ages of 25 and 44; and Whereas, February 7, 2004, is the 4th Annual National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, a day in which events will occur throughout the nation to bring attention to the devastation that AIDS has caused in the African American community and the need for increased prevention and education efforts; and Whereas, in Philadelphia, as of December 2003, African Americans, combined with other black races, represents 65 percent of all reported AIDS cases, a number that far exceeds their percentage of the Philadelphia population; and
Whereas, one of the leaders in coordinating events for National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day in Philadelphia is the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition; and Whereas, the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition is a umbrella organization for a number of committed organizations that are tireless in their efforts to address a variety of health needs color; and Whereas, the common mission of all members of the Coalition is to implement treatment and education efforts to alleviate the horrible effects and HIV and AIDS not just National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, but every day; and
Whereas, the Philadelphia base members of the Coalition include Babasha, Calcutta House, Circle of the Care, Family Planning Council, Citywide Youth Agency, Gardencia House, Hope, Worldwide PA, Hunting Park Health Center, GPHA, Maternity Care Coalition, Minute by Minute, One Day At a Time, Philadelphia's Black Women's Health Project, Sobriety Through our Patience, Stop and Surrender, Women's Christian Alliance, Women's Institute For Family Health; and Whereas, through the efforts of the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition, it is certain that lives have been saved and pain has been eased. Now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the that we hereby honor and commend the North Central Health Coalition on the occasion of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. Resolved further, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Denise Pride of the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. This resolution is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 29th day of January 2004. Signed by President Ann Verna, introduced by Marian B. Tasco, Blondell Reynolds Brown Richard Mariano, and supported by all Members of City Council. We want to congratulate you, Denise on your job.
Thank you so much, especially to Councilwoman Tasco, Reynolds Brown and Mariano for their support and this issue is. Yes, we had the press conference on Tuesday, but that was just to highlight this day of observance. This needs to be recognized every day. We need everyone involved. Yes, it's National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, but we have families together. You notice the diversity on the stage here. That's because this disease does not care, does not care what your economic status is, does not care what your age is, does not care. It will attack your immune system. We need to educate you. As a matter of fact, our theme every year is to get educated. You have to k now what this disease does to you in order to protect yourself and your loved ones. It will attack your immune system, what God gave us to protect us. That's the basic. Get tested so you know your status, so you can get treatment. There are people out there ready to take care of you to help you. And lastly get involved. We need war going on right here in Philadelphia and most don't even know it. The count that Councilwoman Tasco had mentioned, we are looking at 16,826 reported cases of AIDS in Philadelphia. Yes 65 percent of that represent the black community, but there is a lot more going on. Every age group is affected. Our young are affected. Our children, our cousins, our daughters, our nieces, our nephews. Our future, clearly, our future in jeopardy right here in Philadelphia. What you see happening in Africa is quietly happening here. But we're not so quiet anymore. What you see on stage with me are just a few of the people that come to help, to advocate, to stand up beside me and everyone else that's been affected or infected with this disease. And I ask you, Councilmembers and guests here, to join with us to spread the word about how serious this is. We need to be outraged. We need to be upset. We need to be frightened because it is your constituency that is getting sick. We are looking to you be hearing from me pretty soon. I want to share with you the details of what's happening in your community, in your district. I work closely with the Health Department to get the most up-to-date information about what's going on in the City. So when you see North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition or my name or any of my members, please, please pay close attention. It is very serious. And on the last note, one of our events yesterday, we had film day. I recommend that you all rent Philadelphia. It will reconnect you, it will remind you of what is going on. The film may have depicted what is going on in the '80s, but it is still going on, it is still true. We have become desensitized. I ask that you at least rent that. No, I don't have any stock any of the video companies. But, please, that is one of the ways to get educated. And call on us at any time so you can find out exactly what's going on. We're looking forward to coming out Thank you. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos who will introduce visitors joining us this morning.
Thank you, Madam President. At this time I would like to recognize and welcome a group of ASPIRA students who are accompanied by their director, Mr. Alfredo Calderon. They will be celebrating their 35th anniversary of the founding of ASPIRA this Saturday with a gala banquet. ASPIRA prepares Hispanic students for college and enhances their knowledge of their heritage. Will ASPIRA and those with them please rise. (Applause.)
Welcome. business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor. THE
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting herewith for the introduction and consideration of your honorable body a proposed resolution entitled, a resolution amending the Neighborhood Transformation Initiative FY 2004 Program Statement and Budget. And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriation for Fiscal Year 2004 within the Grants Revenue Fund from the Director of Finance to the Department of License and Inspections. And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriation for Fiscal Year 2004 within the General Fund from certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession. THE
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolution. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly second that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor of the motion will please say. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce one bill on your behalf and two resolutions on my own.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An ordinance amending Section 9-204 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sidewalk Vending in Center City," by exempting sidewalk sales by owners and tenants of properties in the 1500 block of Spruce Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2004 Program Statement and Budget for the expenditure of the Neighborhood Transformation Initiative bond proceeds.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City deeds located in the 60th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
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 signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Madam President, I ask to be excused for the purpose of the presentation of a resolution and picture-taking in the Caucus Room, and thereafter be excused from the rest of this Session, as I have requested. I have no bills or resolutions today.
I want my vote to be recorded on all resolutions and bills as aye
Thank you. The Chair at this time recognizes Councilman Cohen.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriation for Fiscal Year 2004 within the General Fund from certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions to certain or all offices, departments, boards and commissions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriation for Fiscal Year 2004 within the Grants Revenue Fund from the Director of Finance to the Department of Licenses and Inspections.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An ordinance amending Section 1-112 of The Philadelphia Code by revisiting the amount generally required to be remitted in response to notice of violation in order to waive appearance before a municipal court judge.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia deeds located in the 19th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
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 signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
The Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution. THE
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Public Health and Human Services to hold hearings to investigate the state of healthcare for residents of the Philadelphia and the ongoing work of the Department of Health to develop a plan for universal healthcare coverage.
Madam President, I move for the adoption of the resolution and I'd also like to speak on the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
Madam President, at the Session we held hearings in Council on the increase of infant mortality in the Ogontz Section of my community.
Excuse me, Councilwoman. We're having difficulty hearing you.
We've been talking to concerned citizens about the threat of the closing of the prenatal care and delivery services all over the City of Philadelphia, and we've also been in discussion, as we will continue today, to hear about the threat of hospitals closing in the City of Philadelphia. On November the 4th in 2003, the voters of this City approved an amendment to the Home Rule Charter that healthcare is an essential safeguard of the human life and dignity and that there is an obligation for the City of Philadelphia to ensure that every resident is able to realize this fundamental right. And, therefore, the Health Department is to come up with a plan about how it plans to deliver this universal healthcare. We believe that many of these issues, certainly the whole issue of prenatal care and the delivery of services and access to prenatal care, the issue of infant mortality, the issue of hospital closing are at a epidemic portion in this City. And we want to have a discussion around how the Health Department plans to frame their plan for the citizens of Philadelphia. So this resolution is to have a dialog with the Health Department to talk about how they plan to address some of the these issue as well as many other issues in the City around health since we have a Charter mandate to provide for the public health of our citizens. So I ask my colleagues to support this resolution and thank those who have signed on to it.
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by -
I'm sorry, Councilman. I didn't realize that your light was on. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
As the sponsor of the referendum that was voted on by the voters, I want to underscore the importance of what Councilwoman Tasco is saying. I just wonder one of these days, it seems to me, that Americans have to stand up and begin yelling because apparently most people aren't listening. And most people I refer to are people in government who seem to feel that it's perfectly all right for 45 to 50 million Americans to walk around totally devoid of the ability to get any kind of medical care. People in the United States are not animals. We are not an undeveloped country. We have absolutely no excuse except the underlying effort to make rich people richer is the only thing that interferes with our medical ability to provide services to everybody. It's criminal to say in this country really we don't have funds for medical care when we have enough money to make millionaires into billionaires and do is consistently and have tax cuts in order to avoid the necessity of providing for healthcare. It's just urgent that people wake up because they have a right to be treated as people instead of being treated as lonely rats scurrying about in the corners hoping to be able to survive. So I urge everybody, get excited about it, talk to your neighbors. Everybody is watching TV these days on political discussion to see who the Democrats nominate and whether they'll nominate somebody that's going to defeat Bush or whether they may nominate somebody else. Whatever it is, stop listening so much to TV and start talking, telling people that they have certain rights. Otherwise, we're living in disgraceful, uncivilized times if we accept the notion that any human being is not worthy of proper medical care. So listen to what Councilwoman Tasco says. She's trying awaken the needs of the people. She's trying to awaken their responses so they begin demanding what they have an absolute to. Thank you very much, Madam President. And thank you, Councilwoman Tasco.
You're welcome. Again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Yes, Madam President. I failed to -- and I apologize to my colleague, Councilman Cohen. The referendum was as a result of his action last term and he is cosponsor of this resolution.
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted and will be referred to the Committee on Public Health and Human Services. The Clerk will please read the title of the second resolution. THE
A resolution calling for the Committee of State Government of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to hold public hearings and advance the legislative process for House Bill 1563 which amends Title 62 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes providing for minority, women, and disadvantaged owned business enterprises.
The Chair, again, recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you very much, Madam President. I move the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of the next resolution. THE
A resolution calling on the Council of the City of Philadelphia to join with Sheriff John Green in asking the President Judge of the Court of Common Pleas for the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania to impose a moratorium on foreclosure sales in Philadelphia and support any litigation that will further this end.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution and I'd like to speak it. (Duly seconded.)
The Chair, again, recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you very much. In 2000, this Council passed an anti-predatory lending bill unanimously. And during the course of our discussions prior to passing that legislation in City Council, one of the discussion items with the legislative drafting task force was to seek a moratorium on the foreclosures. At that time, the sheriff did not have the ability to do that. I was pleased to see yesterday in the paper that he is going to take some action based on action that was initiated in 1983. I would dare say that of the 1,092 sheriff sales that were presented on day before yesterday, that probably a large portion of those homes were a result of predatory lending practices in this City. So we'd like this Council to continue and we wanted this Council to be a part of whatever action that's going to be taken by the Sheriff, because this Council took the lead and I want to thank my colleagues for doing that so our constituents will know that we're constantly on the watch to protect them in this City.
Thank you. 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 Clerk will please read the next resolution. THE
A resolution recognizing February 15th to the 21st as Black Family Technology Awareness Week.
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 has been adopted. I believe there's another resolution. Will the Clerk please read it. THE
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 Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two bills and one privileged resolution.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the first bill. THE
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within the vicinity of Fountain Street and the Manayunk Canal.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance renaming the Recreation Department facility identified as Manayunk Park located on the 4300 block of Silverwood Street as Pretzel Park.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE
A resolution congratulating the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society on the occasion of the 175th anniversary of the Philadelphia Flower Show.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions this morning.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution. THE
A resolution authorizing City Council Committee on Streets and Services to hold public hearings to examine the creation, maintenance and funding of public restrooms.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the Committee on Streets and Services. The Clerk will please read the title of the second resolution. THE
A resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Streets and Services to public hearings to investigate the mistreatment of animals by the carriage industry within the City of Philadelphia, and in furtherance of such investigation authorizing the issuance of subpoenas or other process as the Chairperson deems necessary.
The Chair, again, recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for of the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and this resolution will be referred to the Committee on Streets and Services. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one bill and resolution.
The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An ordinance amending the Philadelphia Code relating to students living in Educational Housing Districts by amending Section 10-1800 by adding to the definition of Educational Housing District the area within the 5th Councilmanic District.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 18th and 29th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. We have neither reports from committees nor bills on the First and Second Reading Calendars today. At this time I would ask, are there any speeches on the part of the Minority? (No response.)
Are there any speeches on the part of the Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I would simply like to call to the attention to some of my colleagues and remind others, and really anyone in the audience who cares about the future of the Philadelphia Public School system or future of the Fairmount Park or the future of the Parkside community to join the District Councilperson for this area, Councilman Michael Nutter and myself in what will be public meeting on February 9th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Fairmount Park Horticultural time, we will hear testimony from all stakeholders who care about a potentially unprecedented initiative and partnership between the School District and Fairmount Park -- and Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell's district, I've been kindly reminded. That this is an unprecedented opportunity for the district and Fairmount Park and the Parkside community which is inadvertently omitted in this article to hear why this may be a good thing. And the time to do that, as I said, is February 9th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. people. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I'd just like to thank Ms. Sgambati for this wonderful book. It's a great book for our children and for us to read about breaking down fences. And thank you, Blondell, for this book. It's a nice book.
And if there is an extra copy around, I'd like to receive one.
Thank you, Madam President. First, Madam President, I thank my colleague Councilwoman Reynolds Brown for mentioning the meeting coming up on Monday and the exciting opportunity that our school district and our school-aged children may have. I do look forward to those hearings. As well, I wanted to mention that later on today at 1 o'clock in Council Chambers is a continuation of the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development led by Councilman Goode in his leadership on the issue on MCP and the larger issues of healthcare here in Philadelphia. Councilwoman Tasco this morning had a number of resolutions related to the issue of healthcare. These are very important hearings and issues that are being raised affecting many Philadelphians, not just in the East Falls or North City, but there are larger and broader issues affecting healthcare throughout Philadelphia. So I encourage anyone wishes to attend, the continuation of the hearing is at 1 o'clock today at our Council Chambers. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Madam President, while we're rejoicing about what's happening between the park and schools, let's not forget the headline in the Inquirer this morning which says the Governor seems to have forgotten all about his promises and pledges about the school system. And that's precisely what happens when you have political leadership turning over the responsibility of the City to the State for schools. We all know the State is not interested in education. Pennsylvania has probably the 48th or 49th worst state in the country with respect to lack of support from public officials at the school system. So, therefore, it's easy to understand how Governor Rendell, instead of being the champion he said he was going to be for the school system, has apparently become the champion of those in the State who thinks that any money spent for the schools is wasted because he stopped championing the school system. That's what happens also when you turn over your responsibility. That's why I say there is no partnership between the State and City about the school system in Philadelphia. All it was was a surrender by the Mayor to the State with respect to the school system and between the Mayor and the Governor. What we're seeing is a total forgetting of the school system. I think it's time for the people of Philadelphia to realize what's been pulled on them by the famous Rendell Street team. And that team believes in doing absolutely nothing for the people. They believe more in being like Republicans than being Democrats are supposed to be, interested in the people. to start waking up as to what's happening in the school system. It's like the situation that Councilman Kenney was quoted in the papers about with regard to scholarships to some of the people may be in Philadelphia but not all of the students, and all of the students deserve college support. But basically, the number one thing to do is to wake up Philadelphia and understand that your school system is being undermined by the State control of it. It's not being helped at all. There's no partnership between the State and the City about promoting the advancement of the schools. If there's a partnership, it's a partnership to forget about the schools in Philadelphia. Thank you, Madam President. Let's hope we all wake up.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Thank you, to bring it to Council attention that a staffer of min, Patrick Dugan left for Fort Brag about three weeks ago. Patrick is attached to the 416 Civil Affairs squadron. He left for Iraq on Sunday. He will be in Iraq for a year. He will be working special operations group of the United States Army to help stabilize the new Iraqi government. And I figured with all his experience in City Council, that should be nothing for him. So our prayers and our minds are with Patrick and his family, all seriously. And I will report when he starts E-mailing me in the next couple weeks. Thank you.
Thank you. Are there any other speeches on the part of the Majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.
Madam Council stand adjourned until Thursday, February 12, 2004 at 10:00 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, February 12, 2004. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. Thank you. (Council adjourned at 11:23 a.m.) C E R T I F I C A T I O N I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of February 5, 2004, were reported fully and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of the same. RE: STATED MEETING _________________________ Lisa C. Bradley, RPR