COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, February 10, 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 COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN JUAN RAMOS COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
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 Rabbi Albert Gabai from Congregation Mikveh Israel. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Cohen. I would ask all Members and guests to please rise.
Thank you, Madam Council President, and thank you, Councilman Cohen. It is an honor for me personally as well as my entire congregation to have been asked to deliver the invocation today before the City Council of Philadelphia. Being the Rabbi, or to use anxious nomenclature, the minister of one of the six colonial congregations in this City, I'm lucky enough to have a lot of rich historic material from my predecessors. the American Revolution, the then Rabbi Patriot Gershon Mendes Seixas fled from the British in New York and found refuge in Philadelphia. He was appointed minister at our congregation Mikveh Israel when first building was inaugurated in 1782. He and the rest of the congregation in this City decided that since there were no longer under the oppressive mantel of the king that prayer for the government would be changed and the congregants would not pray for well-being of George III, but prayer would be changed to read as the one I recite now, which is what has been recited Mikveh Israel at every Sabbath and holiday service for the last 223 years. May he who grants deliverance to nations and understanding and to the leaders whose kingdom is a everlasting kingdom who delivered his servant David from the sword, who makes a way in the sea and a path in the mighty waters. May he bless, preserve, guard and assist the President and Vice President of the United States, the Senate, and the House Representatives, the Governor of this Commonwealth, the member of the Legislature, the Council of this City, and other constituted authorities. So may the supreme king of kings in his infinite mercy preserve them, grant their life and deliver from all manner of trouble and danger. May the supreme king of kings in his infinite mercy inspire them and all the counselors and officers with goodwill toward us and all mankind. May this be the will of God. And let us say a men.
The Chair thanks the Rabbi for his very inspiring remarks. Thank you very much. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 3, 2005. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of of Thursday, February 3, 2005, stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of Thursday, February 3, 2005, stand approved. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, the motion carries, and the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, February 3, 2005, is approved. The next order of business is request for leave of absence. And the Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the Majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilwoman
Thank you. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the Republicans, there are no requests for leaves of absence.
I've just been informed that Councilman Cohen will also not be in so we would likewise request a leave of absence on his behalf.
May I suggest he wait because he had called me this morning said he would be in but probably would be here about 10:30.
All right, Madam President, that's fine. 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 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 who will present a resolution honoring the institute for safe families. I would ask that Dr. Jeffrey Jager and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. I see that Councilwoman Miller and Councilman Nutter will be joining Councilwoman Brown for the presentation. Councilwoman Brown.
Brown thank you, Madam President. the representative for the Institute for Safe Families. This organization resides in Councilman Michael Nutter's district, so we're asking him to be with us during this ceremony. Declaring February 14, 2005, as Victory Over Violence Day, also known as V Day. Whereas, the Institute for Safe Families is dedicated to illuminating and addressing the causes of family violence and to offering an alternative vision for wholeness, healing, family health and personal development; and
Whereas, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health and the Philadelphia Department of Human Services work to protect families from violence and to create a system of supports in an effort to maintain safe families; and Whereas, in the United States, a woman is battered usually by her intimate partner every 15 seconds; a woman is raped every 90 seconds; in girls and 1 and 5 form of sexual abuse before the age of 18; and boys who witness their fathers' violence are 10 times more likely to engage in spousal abuse in later adulthood than boys from nonviolent homes; and
Whereas, V Day recognizes annually on Valentine's Day has grown into a global movement to stop violence against women and children. It promotes creative events to increase awareness, raise monies, and revitalize the spirit of existing anti-violence organizations; and Whereas, revitalizing that the collective energy of partnerships make good things happen. The collaboration of ISF, the Department of Public Health and the Department of Human Services helps to continue to expand awareness of family violence issues, especially among men and adolescence males while generating a broader attention for the fight to stop worldwide violence against women and girls; now, there it therefore be it
Resolved by the City Council of the Philadelphia that we 14, 2005, V Day in the City of Philadelphia. Resolved further that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Institute for Safe Families, the Philadelphia Department of Health, and the Philadelphia Department of Human Services for their efforts to end family violence as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.
This resolution was introduced by Blondell Reynolds Brown, my colleagues Councilman Rick Mariano and Donna Reed Miller and sponsored by all Members of the Philadelphia City Council. We salute the Institute of Safe Families. (Applause.)
Thank you so much for this honor. By passing this resolution, Philadelphia City Council is joining an international movement called V Day. This day has a simple message: That violence against end. The V Day movement promotes create efforts to increase awareness, raise money, and revitalize the spirit of existing anti-violence organizations and to generate attention for the fight to stop worldwide violence against women and girl. For four years in Philadelphia, our unique focus has been on what men can do to end family violence. We have developed a entire public awareness effort focussed on men and the role that we can play in ending this epidemic. And again, we thank you. Now I would like to introduce our colleague Hiawatha Lavern Branch who is a wonderful and motivated spokesman for what men can do.
As a father, a grandfather, a great-grandfather, I can tell you about violence, and I can tell you it does not begin with the hitting of hands. It begins by the thought. If you think negative and you react negative, it begins violence. Men's responsibility is to nurture the mother's responsibility is to nurture. It is our job to become more aware of nurturing and being responsible, reliable, and consistent in taking care of our children and our families. Violence is only going to beget violence. And until we stop and begin to love and care for each other, violence will never end. (Applause.)
Now, let me introduce to you Darnel Wilkerson. Mr. Wilkerson is the director of Health Center 6 and is a representative our collaboration with the Health Department. He is a true advocate in the Health Department in its efforts to address family violence among families served by the City health centers and elsewhere. He's going to read to you our Men Can Pledge which can be seen at 20th and Berks across from Health Center 5 in an exceptional new mural mosaic of tile and color.
As a man, I know the realities of violence against women and children. I've taken a hard look at the are that millions of women and children are beaten, raped, sexually harassed, stalked every year. These women and children live in the fear of what tomorrow might bring. Today, I take a stand to stop violence because I'm a friend, family, companion of those who suffer. I've made a commitment to turn my private concerns into public actions. I promise to treat all women and children with dignity and respect. I will intervene when I see destructive behavior that demoralizes any person. I will defend who I can by taking these actions. I will promote a new kind of society where decency and respect requires no special day on the calendar. Boys are taught that violence does not equal strength, where men stand with courage, lead with conviction and speak with one voice, "No more." (Applause.)
Thank you. If you would like to see the mural and the process by which it was developed to show your support for this wonderful effort, invite you to our V Day celebration coming up on Valentine's Day Monday where we will unveil our new Men Can poster and show a video about our work. This event is cosponsored and will be attended by leaders from the Institute for Safe Families, Philadelphia Department of Human Services, Philadelphia Department of Public Health, the Philadelphia Mural Arts Program, the Office of Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, and the Health Resources and Services Administration. It will be held Monday, February 14, 2005 in Room 201, City Hall, Philadelphia at 10:30. We hope you can join us. Thanks again for this great honor. (Applause.)
We certainly applaud you for the wonderful work that you do. At this time, Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco who will the NAACP and the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition. I would ask Mr. J. Wyatt Mondesire and Ms. Denise Pride to please join the Councilwoman at the podium. Councilwoman Tasco is being joined by Councilwoman Brown. Councilman DiCicco is also joining the Councilwoman. Councilwoman Tasco.
Good morning. This morning, it gives us pleasure to present this resolution honoring and commending the NAACP Philadelphia Branch and the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition on the occasion of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. Whereas, February 7, 2005, is the fifth annual observance Of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, a day in which events will occur throughout the nation to bring attention to the devastation that HIV/AIDS causes in the African-American and other communities of color and the need for efforts; and Whereas, in Philadelphia, as of December 2004, African-Americans combined with other black races represented 66 percent of all reported AIDS cases since 1981, a number that far exceeds their percentage of the Philadelphia population; and.
Whereas, two of the leaders in coordinating events for National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day in Philadelphia are the local branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition; and Whereas, the NAACP was formed in 1909 by a multi-racial group of progressive thinkers with the objective of ensuring the political, educational, social and economic equality of minority groups. The NAACP, as its mission in part, the goal of eliminating race prejudice and removing all barriers of racial discrimination through democratic process seeks to enact and enforce federal, state, and local laws securing civil rights, informs the public of the adverse effects of racial discrimination and seeks its elimination and educate persons as to their Constitutional rights and to take all lawful action in furtherance of these principles; and
Whereas, the primary focus of the Philadelphia NAACP continues to be the protection and enhancement of the civil rights and well-being of African-Americans and other minorities; and Whereas, the mission of the Philadelphia NAACP Health Committee is to alert and educate its members and the community at-large about prevention and elimination of health disparities such as the horrible effects of HIV and AIDS, not just on National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, but everyday; and Whereas, the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition is an umbrella organization for a number of committed organizations that are tireless in their efforts to address a variety of health needs color; and
Whereas, Philadelphia NAACP and the Coalition is joined in its efforts by State Senator Vincent Hughes, State Representative Jewel Williams; Mayor's Office of Health and Fitness, the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity, concerned Black Men of Philadelphia, National Medical Association, University of Pennsylvania Center for AIDS Research, Keystone Mercy, AIDS Activities Coordinating Office, Philadelphia Department of Public Health, AIDS Law Project, St. Christopher's Hospital, Black Women's Health Alliance, One Day At a Time, Circle of Care Family Planning Council, Greater Philadelphia Health Action, and Women's Christian Alliance; Whereas, it is fitting that we join with the Philadelphia NAACP and the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition to express our strong support for National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day and their health initiatives to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS in the African-American community. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor and commend the Philadelphia NAACP and the North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition on the occasion of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. Resolved further that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to J. Wyatt Mondesire, President; and Denise Pride, Health Chair of Philadelphia NAACP as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 3rd day of February 2005. Signed by President Ann Verna, introduced by Tasco, Brown and, DiCicco and sponsored by all Members of City Council. (Applause.)
The Chair welcomes and recognizes Mr. Mondesire for remarks.
Thank you very much, representative of the NAACP Philadelphia Branch it is my pleasure to say thank you for this resolution and to commend you for standing with us in this ongoing struggle to keep people alive. As you heard some of the numbers, they are devastating. Two-thirds of all AIDS cases in the Philadelphia area now are made up of people of color. Is a devastating disease which now infects more people every day than actually die from this dreaded disease. I want to thank the Philadelphia Black Clergy and Bishop Morris and all the other partners who joined with the NAACP in putting on a wonderful town meeting up at Freedom Theater just a few days ago. We sincerely appreciate the support of Council and ask you to stand with us and all the other AIDS-related organizations like BEBASHI and others who in this struggle. The civil rights struggle cannot really succeed if people are not alive. Let me repeat it again. We cannot succeed if We overcame slavery. We overcame de facto segregation. We overcame Jim Crow segregation. And now, we are in the struggle to keep people alive, all people, regardless of race, ethnic heritage or economic background. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
May I say good morning to everyone. I wish you would allow me, because of seriousness of this particular disease that is affecting so many people, to render a word of prayer if possible. Most gracious Father, we first thank you for your loving kindness, your tender mercy and all your many blessings. We thank you that you have made us conscious of this dreaded disease, not just African-Americans but to people of every nationality. Our prayer is that we will ever be sensitive to understand that these are our brothers and our sisters, husbands and our wives, our mothers and our fathers, and many times our grandmoms and grandpops. And may we always be sensitive comfort and compassion. We ask and pray that a solution will come in the near future where this dreaded disease will be conquered. Now, bless us to continue to be a blessing in our efforts, in Jesus' name we pray. Amen.
Thank you, Bishop. At this time, the Chair recognizes Ms. pride for remarks.
Good morning, everyone. And thank you so much for allowing us to have this time with you. You've seen me before, most of you, here as North Central Philadelphia Health Coalition Coordinator. I've reached out to a lot of organizations, especially black organizations because of what I know. It may sound like I'm focussing on one race. It is in a way because I believe in starting home first. But realistically, we are all family, and this disease is affecting every race, every age group. A lot of people seem to think it's the youth. I want you to understand, yes, it's the youth, but it's also are going up everywhere, and all we have combat it is prevention education. We are losing funding. There are agencies out there that have to cut outreach programs, the very thing that we need to go into your communities to educate your constituents about how to stay alive. Some business people seem to think it doesn't touch them. It affects your business. If people are too sick to come out to patronize your business or their money is tied up in expensive medications, they cannot by your product. Employees out sick; that hurts businesses; that hurts the community; that hurts Philadelphia, my home. I've watched too many people sick, too sick to do anything. No one is caring for them as much I believe they should. I reached out to NAACP because three years ago I heard Kweisi Mfume at the time say that it was going to be top priority on their list. The local NAACP supported me in my efforts. And now, I'm their Chair of the Health Committee, and I a bigger responsibility and I ask for your help. And how can you do that? The easiest way is to invite us, the prevention educators, into your districts and hold community meetings so we can take the time to educate them. Families, parents still have difficulty allowing people to come into the schools to educate the youth. That is our future. Not to sound cliche-ish, but it is true. We're worried about education. We're worried about jobs. You have a laundry list of priorities, and I understand that. But as Mr. Mondesire said, we can't advance if we're not here, if we are not healthy. Tomorrow, I plan to fax every Councilperson here the latest statistics from the Health Department. Over 17,000 reported AIDS cases in Philadelphia since 1981. And I stress "reported" because not all of them have been reported. It doesn't reflect how many people have HIV. We're working on a reporting mechanism now. But the estimation is for every one reported AIDS case, there are three our community and most do not know. So again, I ask you to allow us into your communities. I will give you the information that you need to understand. It is even broken down by zip codes so you will know exactly what is going on in your districts. Thank you again for allowing us here. And remember, absent a vaccine or cure, prevention education is our best intervention. Thank you again. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilman Ramos who will present a resolution honoring National School Counselors Week. Will Ms. Ruth Garcia and those a accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. Councilman Ramos is being joined by
Thank you, Madam President. Recognizing the week of February 7, 2005, as National School Counselors Week. Whereas, school counselors are employed in public and private schools to help students reach their full potential; and Whereas school counselors are actively committed to helping students explore their abilities, strengths, interests and talents as these traits relate to career awareness and development; and Whereas, school counselors help parents focus on ways to further the educational, personal, and social growth of their children; and
Whereas, school counselors work with teachers and other educators to help students explore their potential and set realistic goals for themselves; and Whereas, school counselors seek to identify and utilize community resources that can enhance and compliment comprehensive students become productive members of society; and Whereas, comprehensive developmental schools cancelling programs considered an integral part of the education process that enables all students to achieve success in school; and Whereas, during the week February 7th through the 11th, school counselors will celebrate National School Counselor Week; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the City Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby recognize the week of February 7, 2005, as National School Counselors Week. Congratulations. (Applause.)
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank City Council for recognizing the importance of school counselors in our schools for the important work that we do with our students. We are an there for our students, whether they are in need of some assistance for academic interests or whether they are having personal difficulties or difficulties at home or any other challenges that may arise. We hope that counselors are continued to be seen as an important role model for students to be able to see more regularly, and certainly that could happen if there were more of us in our schools. The American School Counseling Association recognizes that school counselors play this important role and recommends a ratio of no more than 1 counselor to 200 students. In our schools across Philadelphia and in other districts in Pennsylvania and across the country, we find that the ratio is more 700 or 800 or 900 to 1. And some of our elementary schools have only one school counselor with student populations of over 1100. So I hope that this is something that can be addressed and be rectified so that even more productive and effective than they are. Thank you. (Applause.)
The next order of 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 pleased to advise you that on February 10, 2005, I signed all the bills that were passed by Council at its Session on January 25, 2005, except Bill NO. 040755 and Bill No. 040326. And I am returning without signature Bill No. 040755 passed by the Council on January 25, 2005. And I am returning as disapproved 040326 passed by the Council on January 25, 2005. And I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area, designated as Parcel No. 266. And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of South Central Urban Renewal Area known as Parcel 116. And a resolution approving the authorization for the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to use NTI bond proceeds to acquire certain properties, under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance approving a lease agreement between Philadelphia Gas Works and the Greater Germantown Housing Development 214-212 West Cheltenham Avenue. And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to enter into a sublease agreement to lease from the Philadelphia Municipal Authority portions of the building located at 701 Market Street. And an ordinance authorizing the Managing Director or his designee on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to enter into a lease agreement to lease vehicles from the Philadelphia Municipal Authority. And an ordinance to City Council which establishes the Prison Industries Revolving Fund.
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 resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Rules of Council be suspended to permit the immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded 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 indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of myself and Councilman Ramos, I offer one bill and one resolution, and I offer also one resolution on my behalf.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter creating the Office of the Director of Immigrant Affairs as approved by resolution of the City Council and fixing a date for special election.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to create the Office of the Director of Immigrant Affairs and providing for the submission of the amendment to the electors of Philadelphia.
That goes to the Committee, I believe, Madam President.
That will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Legislative Oversight to hold hearings on whether the City should establish a 311 constituent contact center to unburden the current 911 emergency call center.
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 signify by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate Committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I introduce two resolutions on your behalf.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution. THE
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area.
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 resolution is adopted. THE
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area.
The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Thank you. The Chief 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 7th, 18th, 19th and 23rd Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
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 Councilwoman Tasco.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An ordinance approving a lease agreement between the Philadelphia Gas Works by Philadelphia Facilities Management Corporation solely in its capacity as operator and manager of the Philadelphia owned Gas Works and Greater Germantown Housing Development Corporation for certain premises located 212-214 West Chelten Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two resolutions and would like to speak on one.
Very well. The Chief Clerk will please read the first resolution. THE
A resolution joining the nation in recognizing February as African-American History Month and honoring the Association of African-American Life and History as the founding organization of African-American History Month.
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
And a resolution for the City Council of Philadelphia calls upon our congressional representatives and federal government to preserve the funding for the Community Development Block Grant Program and other programs designed to assist community development in urban and rural areas.
Thank you, Madam President. Before calling for the adoption, I'd like to speak on this resolution.
On Monday, February 7th, President Bush introduced 2.57 trillion dollar budget that will eliminate many programs. Among those up for elimination is the CDBG funding. One program in particular that is slated is the Community Development Block Grant Program. CDBG funds can be used to create housing opportunities to assist low income and moderate income residents of cities and towns to meet one of their most basic needs to achieve economic independence. It our duty as a City legislative body to speak for our constituents and inform them of how this budget will affect us here in Philadelphia. On a federal level, these budget cuts are merely facts and figures. However, once we get to our level, the local level, we see the impact of these cuts on a firsthand basis. Many Philadelphia neighborhoods are relying on these funds to do what's very, very dearly needed, and that's revitalization. It appears that the President's priority is to help rebuild Iraq and some of those other nations while our Philadelphia cities are really, really falling. Prior to coming to Council, one of the activities that I was very active in was economic and housing development. So this type of action is really going to hit Philadelphia and other cities, both rural and urban, very, very hard. Community empowerment and education are supposed to be the tag line of the current Administration. These budget cuts do not reflect those sentiments. That is why I'm asking this body and our constituents to speak out by sending letters and getting petitions and speak out against these cuts for the sake of our children and our neighborhoods. Thank you.
Thank you. Councilwoman, would you move for the adoption, please?
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 Nutter.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution. THE
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
And a resolution calling on the Governor and the General Assembly to immediately provide for permanent and predictable funding for SEPTA and all public transit agencies across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption of the resolution. I'd like to speak on the resolution at the appropriate time. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, there are any number of important issues facing Philadelphia and Pennsylvania. A number of those issues have been acknowledged here this morning in our Chambers, whether it was the presentation regarding domestic violence or HIV/AIDS. But there are other important issues, one of which is mass transit, not only for Philadelphia, not only for Pittsburgh, but throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Transit Coalition, many of whose members are here with us this morning, and I'd like to acknowledge their work and their efforts. They are in the rear.
Who are here with us today. Some of the leadership is Mr. Tom Cronin who is here, Mr. Pat Eiding for the AFL/CIO, and many, many other individuals, are leading an effort to bring this issue right where it needs to be, and we're working in partnership with the General Assembly and the Governor's office. We heard the Governor's message just yesterday. Mr. Randy Robinson who's also the political director of Local 234, the Transport Workers Union is also here with us this morning. This is a critical issue, not just for Philadelphia, not just for Pittsburgh, but across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The rally is Monday, February 14, 2005. You can go on the Pennsylvania Transit Coalition Web site at www.patransit.org and get information with regard to where the buses and trains or other forms of transportation are leaving from Philadelphia to make the trek to Harrisburg to bring this issue to a proper conclusion. We need mass transit to keep not only this City, this region, but also this state moving in the right direction. Let us try to dispel some of the information that's out there. Mass transit is not just a Philadelphia issue, it's not just a Pittsburgh issue. There are mass transit systems all over the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania who are struggling financially. But secondly and more importantly, the discussion about bridges, roads and highways, some would have you believe that it's only a rural issue or a county's issue. We have bridges, roads, and highways right here in Philadelphia, and so a comprehensive solution to address mass transit bridges, roads, highways, all forms of transportation need to be developed in this legislative and political process. So I would encourage as many people, Madam President, who are able to participate in this rally to go to Harrisburg, access the Web site and call on our employers, all of whom recognize the importance of mass transit for their own businesses to get people from Point A to Point B to get to jobs and places where they need to be. We're calling employers in Philadelphia and surrounding regions to relax things a little bit on Monday to allow their workers to participate, to allow their employees to participate in this effort. As you see in the rear, this is the message. This is the message sent to Harrisburg. We're calling on dedicated funding, not only for mass transit to deal with bridges, roads, and highways, which Philadelphia certainly will benefit as well. The solution must be comprehensive. And I call on the adoption of this resolution. Thank you, Madam President. (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. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen for the introduction of bills and resolution.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one privileged resolution cosponsored by Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution. THE
A resolution honoring and recognizing Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Red Cross and its CEO Tom Foley whose diligent and tireless work has helped hundreds of thousands of people affected by the December 26, 2004 tsunami.
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 DiCicco.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and one resolution.
Thank you. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to enter into a sublease agreement to lease from the Philadelphia Municipal Authority portions of the building located at 701 Market Street for use by the City and affiliated agencies as office space, under certain terms and conditions.
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 31st and 39th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, before I introduce the ordinances and resolutions, I would like to speak on them because I understand there's a pending legislation rule. Is that appropriate?
That's appropriate. I don't know of any rule that would not permit it.
Thank you. Madam President, as you are aware, over the last several months, with the support of all of our colleagues, we've been pushing very hard, very diligently on gun legislation as a result of the horrific violence. Earlier, one of the presentation talked about violence in the streets of the City of Philadelphia. And we thought that in addition to pushing the gun legislation, we need to do something a little more broader. We think we need to allow and authorize the citizens of the City of Philadelphia to give a true and accurate depiction as to how they feel about this issue. It's not simply a number of legislators on a local level or state level or on the federal level. So what we'd like to do today is to talk about the possibility of giving the citizens of the City of Philadelphia an opportunity to show the support for the City of Philadelphia being enabled to do local legislation that deals with the problems of violence in our streets in the City of Philadelphia. So with that, I will say that we have two bills and one resolution today.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill. THE
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter creating a new Chapter 5 entitled "Referendum Approved By the Voters," in Article 8 Provisions of General Application and creating a new section 8-500 entitled "Home Rule Power to Prevent and Reduce Gun Violence."
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And an ordinance authorizing the legendary Blue Horizon, the owner of the property 1314 North Broad Street to maintain one statue, the spirit of Philadelphia boxing statue, which is currently located on the facade of 1314 North Broad Street, under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. THE
And a resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, creating a new Chapter 5 entitled "Referendum Approved By Voters" in Article 8, Provisions of General Application, and creating a new Section 8-500 entitled "Home Rule Power to Prevent and Reduce Gun Violence."
The resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you. As there are no reports from Committees, the next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. The Chief Clerk will please read the 02/10/05 - STATED - 1ST READING bills on the First Reading Calendar. THE
Bill No. 041072, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of the Philadelphia Code entitled "Business Privilege Taxes" by providing for the calculation of the credit against net profits tax based upon net income tax liability, all under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair agrees. That completes the First Reading Calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling bills that will be considered on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar today.
Thank you, Madam President. Today, Bill Nos. 040330, 040100 and 041081 are being called up for second reading and final passage. All other bills are being held. THE
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the 02/10/05 - STATED - 2ND READING title of Bill No. 040330. THE
An ordinance approving the second amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Kingsessing Urban Renewal Area for the additional land acquisition of approximately 24 properties for residential and related uses.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. THE
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill being called for consideration is Bill No. 041000. THE
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to grant to SEPTA an easement across a portion of certain parcel of land in the vicinity of the intersection of Ridge Avenue and Main Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. THE
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The final bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 041081. THE
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority For Industrial Development a deed located 324-332 North 13th Street with the buildings and improvements thereon for further conveyances at fair market value. 02/10/05 - STATED - 2ND READING
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Clerk will please call the roll. THE
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. That concludes our Calendar for on the part of the Minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the Majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.
Madam President, I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday February 17th at 10:00 a.m., 2005. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, February 17th at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the motion carries. Thank you all very much. (Council adjourned at 11:15 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 Thursday, February 10, 2005, were reported fully and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of the same. RE: STATED MEETING _________________________ Lisa C. Bradley, RPR