COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Thursday, 12/6/01 10:28 a.m. Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, PA PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK J. DICICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN W. THACHER LONGSTRETH COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, Deputy Chief Clerk VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103 12/6/01 STATED - GREETING/INVOCATION
Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. The Council will come to order, members will take their seats, and visitors will require to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Reverend Patrick Quainoo, Pastor of the Christian Faith Ministries. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Rizzo. Members and guests will please rise.
Let us pray. Our God of our fathers, once again, Your people have gathered to take counsel. The same spirit, O, God, You gave the forefathers of this nation, we petition You this morning to give us the same spirit, the same knowledge, the same ability, the same wisdom, O, God, to take counsel for this nation, for this, where we stand, is the womb of this nation. And so, Lord, we pray that You will have mercy for Your people. You said if Your people whom You have called by name shall humble themselves and repent of our sins and give back to You, You O, God, 12/6/01 STATED - GREETING/INVOCATION will return to us. And so this morning, we pray that if we have sinned as a nation in any way, shape, or form, we ask for Your forgiveness. Forgive us as a people O, God, for we have been under attack, but You said you would not give us up, You would not give our (indiscernible) a chance to reproach. And so this morning, as the people, O, God, gathered here, we pray with one spirit, one mind, one soul, and one body that lord have mercy. And unless you, O, God, build a house, we live in vain. Unless, God, You keep the city, the watchmen of this city and this nation watched but in vain. And so we commit into your hands, O, God, our lives and as a people that you hear our voice once again as we cry to You, O, God, that we repent. And we ask You, O, God, to come back to us. You said You would never leave us, forsake us. We stand on that word because we know that You are not a man who should lie. Father, we pray this morning that even as Your people have gathered to reason together, lord, let us put our differences aside, and remember, O, God, that we are the people whom You have called by names. 12/6/01 STATED - GREETING/INVOCATION We commit to You, O, God, the education situation in this city right now. Father, we present to you that this (indiscernible) will present to You, father, the Police Department. Lord, we pray that You will choose a man who will lead us into the next level of our police department. Father, we commit the Mayor into your hands. We pray for wisdom for this man and for his family. We commit the president of this Council into your hands, Lord. Make her (indiscernible), O, God, I pray. Let her lead us as a people into the next level. Father, I thank you for every Councilman and woman represented here. And thank you, O, God, for every family represented here. We are here as a family and so cause each and every one to see each other as a family. For the namesake of Your name, O, God, we pray. We thank You, father, that only You can bring us to a point such as this. And may the world know that You indeed stand for this nation, a nation united under one God, a nation who know their God. Let man and woman on the face of the earth know that 12/6/01 STATED - GREETING/INVOCATION indeed You are the God of America. We thank you, we thank you, for you have done so much for us. Cause us not to forget the children, O, God, in these holidays, children who have been deserted, children whose parents have been incarcerated. They need somebody to love them. Lord, help to us remember them. And we thank You above all that you have govern us opportunity to even be alive, to say thank you for the things that You have done for us. We thank You, O, God, in the name of Your son, Jesus Christ. And everybody in the house say amen. ALL: Amen.
The Chair thanks Reverend Quainoo for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease.) (Proceedings resume.) APPROVAL OF 11/29/01 JOURNAL
The next order of business is the approval of the meeting of Thursday, November 29, 2001. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thanks, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 29, 2001, stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 29, 2001, stand approved. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 29, 2001 stands approved. REQUESTS FOR LEAVES OF ABSENCE
The next order of business is requests for leaves of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning, a leave of absence is requested for Councilman Cohen, and a leave of absence is requested for Councilman Ortiz.
Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, there are no requests for leaves from the Republicans.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS
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 Councilmembers Miller and Clarke, who will make a presentation honoring Bernard Hopkins. Will Mr. Hopkins and those accompanying him please join the Councilmembers at the podium. (Councilmembers et al. come forward.)
Thank you, Madam President. Good morning. I just want to say a few words before we start the resolution. I am pleased and honored to have the opportunity to present this resolution to Mr. Bernard Hopkins, the undisputed World VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS Middle-Weight Champion and a native son of Philadelphia, the 5th Councilmatic District, and the 8th Councilmatic District. (Applause.)
We could easily give the customary accolades of his being a young man who pulled himself up. All I keep hearing from people that really follow boxing is that Bernard did this all on his own. There were a lot of doubts. I have a personal trainer that thinks he's great, thinks he's wonderful when he saw the fight on TV. So I really respect Bernard. He's a young man that's earned respect of those that doubted his ability and has remained humble through it all. The City has a lot to be proud of when we boast of Bernard. He remains connected to the community in which he was raised in and can often be seen at various recreation centers encouraging youth to believe in themselves and to continue to achieve. He could go anywhere, but he has chosen instead to remain a viable role model so that youth can see, touch, and feel and feel like they're connected to him. And for that, we are all eternally grateful. VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS This is a resolution honoring and commending Bernard Hopkins, IBF and WBC Middle-Weight Champion for capturing the World Boxing Association Middle-Weight title and becoming the undisputed middle-weight champion of the world.
Whereas, Bernard Hopkins is a native Philadelphian; and Whereas, Bernard Hopkins' career record is 40 wins, 2 losses, 1 draw, 21 knockouts; and Whereas, Bernard Hopkins, the IBF Middle Weight Champion since 1995, won the WC title in points over Keith Holmes on April 14th; and Whereas, Bernard Hopkins fought WBA Middle Weight Fields Trinidad in Madison Square Garden on Saturday, September 29, 2001; and
Whereas, Bernard Hopkins posted a technical knockout 78 seconds into the 12th round; and Whereas, the 36-year-old Hopkins is the first middle weight to hold the WBA, WBC and IBF belts simultaneously -- and I think they're right up here -- simultaneously since Marvin Haigler in 1987 and; and Whereas, Hopkins is being credited for VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS tying Carlos Manzo's middle weight record for 14 straight title defenses; and
Champ, if anybody told you I supported Trinidad, that's not true, all right? (Laughter.)
Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor and commend Bernard Hopkins for capturing the WBA middle-weight title and becoming the undisputed middle-weight champion of the world. Resolved further that an engrossed copy of this resolution shall be presented to Bernard Hopkins, evidencing the sincere sentiments and high esteem of this legislative body. Sponsored by Councilman Darrell Clarke, Councilwoman Donna Reed Miller, and all members of Council, Thursday, October 4, 2001. Congratulations, champ. (Standing ovation)
First I'd like to thank my family, my sister, my daughter, my wife, my VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS mother-in-law, and my mother. I would also like to thank Donna, Miss Miller, for helping me be recognized today. I would also like to make it clear that I'm proud to be an American, just like I'm proud to be a Philadelphian. (Applause.)
Just like I have my battles in sport, in boxing, there are battles in political arenas that sometimes don't show black-and-blue eyes, but trust me, I understand that you all need boxing gloves every now and then at your meetings. (Laughter.)
When I sat here prior to getting up to the podium, I started thinking to myself, there was a lot of times I was in this building -- trust me, they weren't good times. I'll never forget the judges that saved my life -- Eugene Clark, a couple others, but Eugene Clark stands out to me more than the other judges, not because of what they did and didn't do -- I deserved what I have gotten. But he understood that I was a good amateur boxer and I went astray, and he explained to me, I still have to punish you, but if you are that VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS good, then you will have the rest of your life to prove it. Well, here I'm at, 10, 15 years later, Bernard Hopkins, the undisputed middle-weight champion of the world. (Applause.)
The Webster dictionary give you the definition of that -- I'm going to give you mine that. It means there's no dispute. (Laughter.)
Thank you very much, and I know you all have a very, very busy schedule today. And my dream is, before I leave, is to have my 15th straight title defense. I won my title this in 1985. I made it clear that I am the best by winning the other two bets belts in the last six to seven months -- the green and black one, the IB WBC and the WBA this year. Fighting in Philadelphia at the CoreStates Center or the First Union -- I'm being a promoter right now, so if anybody got any strings to pull, I'm talking to you. (Laughter.)
To fight here for my 15th VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS straight defenses will break a record that haven't been broken in boxing in over 50 years. The sport fans understand the history of -- the people that know about boxing understand that that is very, very important, especially for a old man at 36. (Laughter.)
But that is my dream, that's my goal, and I'm pushing it. Once I leave here, I'm starting to negotiate that right now, to be in Philadelphia. I want to see everyone -- non-boxing fans or casual boxing fans -- because you will see the art of boxing. And part of that was September 29th, but the art of boxing has just begun for Bernard Hopkins; it just took a little late in my career for that to start happening. God bless Philadelphia, God bless America. Help our schools. (Standing ovation.) (Council stands at ease.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution honoring the Oak Lane Youth Association. Will Mr. Rico Joseph and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS podium. (Honoree et al. come forward.)
Madam President, this morning, I have the distinct honor and privilege of presenting a resolution to the members of the Oak Lane Youth Association in honor of the organization's 30th anniversary. In addition, I'm very proud to note that this organization is clearly the central nucleus for youth-related activities in the Oak Lane community. They empower youth by teaching the importance of good sportsmanship, academic excellence, and discipline. I am also delighted to have them join us in this resolution this morning to present to them the resolution which I will read. A resolution honoring the Oak Lane Youth Association. Whereas, the Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased to honor the Oak Lane Youth Association on this special occasion of its 30th anniversary; and Whereas, although the challenges are different in the new millennium, the principles of VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS Oak Lane Youth Association remain unaltered in that involved adults care very deeply and are willing to contribute something positive to benefit the children; and Whereas, true to the motto, "Dedicated to Youth," the association today is proud and pleased to honor its youth who represent the backbone of our community. We commend the dedicated commitment of those who understand the premise and willingly volunteer their time and talents to that end; and Whereas, the Oak Lane Youth Association has moved forward with the times during the last three decades. So too has its ambition to motivate others to take an interest in the youth of the community by offering them a choice, a second option, and a positive experience through participation in football, tennis, track, basketball, and providing academic tutoring as well. Now, therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor and commend the Oak Lane Youth Association, to Harry Wilson, Arthur Slater, Thomas Brooks, Rico Joseph, Eric Richards, LaForrest Russell. We wish all of its members and participants a joyous 30th VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS anniversary. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Rico Joseph, President of the Oak Lane Youth Association, as evidence of the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body. Certification this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 29th day of November, 2001. It is signed by the President of City Council, introduced by me, and supported by all members of City Council. And I am proud to present the region in which your organizations serve and sincerely thank each of you for your many, many years of dedicated service. And thank you for the commitment to the youth of Oak Lane. (Applause.)
On behalf of the Oak Lane Youth Association, I'd like to say thank you to Councilwoman Tasco, thank you very much for this great honor. VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS As you know, in today's world, it's very important to have something for our youths to do after school, and one of the things that Oak Lane provides is a positive environment for these children. And I could stand here and take a lot of the credit for doing this, but since this is the 30th anniversary, the real people behind us and the real people that helped me do these positive things for the children are Harry Wilson -- I'd like Harry Wilson to come up and say thank you.
Harry Wilson is really the architect of this whole program. He was one of the first founding problems, him and also Mr. Russell. (Applause.)
Now, without these gentlemen, I would not have been able to partake in this. I met these guys probably about five, six years ago to help my children grow and develop as individuals and as young men in this society, and I think this youth association is very important as a secondary part of VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS the education for these children. And I hope that these positive influences that they give me help me to continue to help our children. Thank you. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease.) (Council proceedings resume.) COMMUNICATIONS
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the clerk. The clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable the following: A resolution authorizing the Director of Commerce, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to file an application, and if the application is accepted, to execute a contract to obtain a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources; 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 Model Cities Urban Renewal Area; And an ordinance to authorize the Water Commissioner, on behalf of the City, to enter into an agreement with Villa Vincent, Inc., the owner of the property 5830 through 5838 Germantown Avenue; COMMUNICATIONS And an ordinance to authorize the Water Commissioner, on behalf of the City, to enter into agreement with CIP Housing, the owner of the property 38 through 60 West Rittenhouse Street.
The messages will be printed in the Journal. The clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.
The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, 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 seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor of the motion will say aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one privileged resolution.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution congratulating the St. Joseph's Prep Football Team for winning the 2001 Catholic League Red Division Championship on INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS December 1, 2001.
Madam President, on behalf of myself, Councilmember Nutter, and Councilmember O'Neill, I move for the adoption.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? the ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning, I introduce one resolution on your behalf and one on my own.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution designating INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS December 21, 2001 as "Homeless Persons Memorial Day."
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 those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Director of Commerce, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to file an application, and if the application is accepted, to execute a contract to obtain a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to create a biking and walking trail along the eastern shore of the Schuylkill River, extending south from INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS the South Street Bridge.
Madam President, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Madam President, I offer one bill and one resolution.
The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
Okay, the clerk will please read the title of the first resolution. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
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 signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
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 65th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Move for the adoption of the resolution. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Madam President, I have two bills and two resolutions.
The clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 194 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Bodine Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to purchase a certain tract of land situate at 2114 to 16 North American Street. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
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 Model Cities Urban Renewal Area.
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
A resolution honoring the North Catholic High School Soccer Team on winning INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS the Catholic League Championship.
Move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.) COUNCIL PRESENT VERNA: It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance (Bill No. 990373) approved July 1, 1999 entitled, "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 207 by striking from the City Plan and vacating 13th Street from Wagner Street southerly to a SEPTA right-of-way. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller. Is she in the room?
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance to authorize the Water Commissioner, on behalf of the City, to enter into an agreement with CIP Housing, the owner of the property at 38 through 60 West Rittenhouse Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 284 by relocating a portion of the northerly curbline and house line of Germantown Avenue a distance northward from a point approximately 719 feet.
The bill will be INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to authorize the Water Commissioner, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement with Villa Vincent, the owner of the property of 5830 through 5838 Germantown Avenue.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area generally bounded by Chelten Avenue, Baynton Street, Belfield Avenue, and Logan Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 9-1100 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Fair Practices," by prohibiting discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations on the basis of a person's gender identity as defined, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Section 4 of an ordinance (Bill No. 000262), entitled "An ordinance authorizing Whole Foods Market Group, Inc., tenant of the property located at 929 South Street to construct and maintain various encroachments in and on the north footway of South Street. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. Councilman O'Neill, do you have any bills or resolutions today?
Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions. Thank you
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have two resolutions today.
That bill actually was in Councilwoman Donna Miller's district.
Oh, thank you. The clerk will please read title of the first resolution.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract, installation sales agreement, and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area.
The Chair INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam Chair. 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. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City deeds located in the 29th, 32nd, and 37th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.) INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth.
Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee of the Whole reports out one bill with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Committee of the Whole, to which was referred Bill No. 010646, an ordinance amending Chapter 2500 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Councilmatic Districts," by revising the boundaries of the Councilmatic Districts, under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES Bill No. 010646. (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 Bill No. 010646. All in favor will say aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and Bill No. 010646 will be placed on today's first-reading calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Rules Committee.
Madam President, the Council Committee on Rules reports out five bills with favorable recommendations.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the report.
The Committee on Rules, to which was referred: Bill No. 010557, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled "Miscellaneous," by adding a new Section 14-1600, entitled "Frankford Special Services District REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES Controls," under certain terms and conditions; And Bill No. 010647, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved June 13, 1997, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal of the urban renewal plan and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the New Kensington Fishtown Urban Renewal Area; And Bill No. 010648, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal, the urban renewal plan and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area; And Bill No. 010649, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 22, 1987, which approved the redevelopment proposal and the urban renewal plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Urban Renewal Area by appointing the 9th amendment of the redevelopment proposal; And Bill No. 010690, an ordinance amending REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES Title 9 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Business, Trades and Professions," to require a sponsor of a planned event held at any premises to obtain a permit for such event if it is expected to attract significantly more persons than may be accommodated within the safe occupancy limits occupancy limits of the premises Respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 010557, 010647, 010648, 010649, and 010690. (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 Bill No.'s 010557, 010647, 010648, 010649, and 010690. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES Those opposed? The ayes have it and the bills just read will be placed on today's first-reading calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski for a report from the Appropriations Committee.
Madam President, the Committee on Appropriations reports four bills out with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Appropriations, to which was referred: Bill No. 010662, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2002 from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance - Provisions for Other Grants to the General Fund; And Bill No. 010663, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2001 within the General Fund from certain or all City offices to certain or all City offices; And Bill No. 010664, an ordinance REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2001 within the Water Fund from certain or all City offices, departments, boards, and commissions to certain or all City offices, departments, boards, and commissions; And Bill No. 010689, an ordinance authorizing the City Solicitor, on behalf of the City, to enter into a multi-year contract with the provider of codification and editing services to produce printed and electronic versions of the eighth edition of the Philadelphia Code and periodic supplement, all under certain terms and conditions Respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No.'s 010662, 010663, 010664, and 010689. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No.'s 010662, 010663, 010664, and 010689. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the bills just read will be placed on today's first-reading calendar. BILLS ON FIRST-READING CALENDAR
The next order of business is the consideration of the calendar, and the Chair recognizes -- oh, I'm sorry. We do have first-reading bills. The clerk will please reads the bills on the first-reading calendar.
Bill No. 010181, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-1500, all under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 010646, an ordinance amending Chapter 2500 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Councilmatic Districts," by revising the boundaries of the Councilmatic Districts under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 010557, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled "Miscellaneous."
The Chair BILLS ON FIRST-READING CALENDAR agrees.
And Bill No. 010647, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved June 13, 1997, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal of the urban renewal plan and the relocation plan of Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia.
And Bill No. 010648, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as amended , which approved the redevelopment proposal of the urban renewal plan and the relocation plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia.
And Bill No. 010649, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 22, 1987 which approved the redevelopment proposal and the urban renewal plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Cecil B. Moore Urban Renewal Area. BILLS ON FIRST-READING CALENDAR
And Bill No. 010690, an ordinance amending Title 9 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Business, Trades and Professions," to require the sponsors of a planned event held at any premises to obtain a permit for such event, all under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 010662, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2002 from the Grants Revenue Fund, the Director of Finance to the General Fund, the City Representative, and the Director of Commerce.
And Bill No. 010663, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2001 within the General Fund from certain or all City offices, to certain or all City offices, departments, boards, and commissions.
The Chair agrees. BILLS ON FIRST-READING CALENDAR
And Bill No. 010664, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2001 within the Water Fund from certain or all City offices, departments, boards, and commissions to certain or all City offices, departments, boards, and commissions.
And Bill No. 010689, an ordinance authorizing the City Solicitor, on behalf of the City, to enter into a multi-year contract with the provider of codification and editing services to produce printed and electronic versions of the eight edition of the Philadelphia Code, all under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair agrees. The bills read by the clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for our next session. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. BILLS ON FIRST-READING CALENDAR This morning, Madam President, I'd like to introduce Mr. Alex Humes and Mr. Barnaby, who are American history teachers at Germantown High School. And with them this morning is a group of 12th-grade students from Germantown High School.
If they would stands, we would love to recognize you. Welcome. (Students and teachers stands.) (Applause.)
We have concluded the first-reading calendar. SECOND READING - BILL NO. 010498A
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up bills on the second-reading and final-passage calendar to be considered.
Thank you, Madam President. Today Bill No.'s 010498A, 000717, 010425, 010493, 010509, 010524, 010526, 010540, and 010605 are being called up for second reading and final passage. All other bills are being held.
The first bill to be called up for consideration is Bill No. 010498A.
An ordinance adding a new Chapter 9-250 to the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Fire Suppression System Workers," providing for the examination and certification of fire suppression system workers and the permitting of fire suppression system apprentices, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now SECOND READING - BILL NO. 010498A is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. SECOND READING - BILL NO. 000717
The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 000717.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning by adding a new Section 14-1620, entitled "Avenue of the Arts North Special District Controls," under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read two different days, the question now is, Shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. SECOND READING - BILL NO. 010425
The next bill to be called up for consideration is Bill No. 010425.
An ordinance declaring that it is desiring for the health, safety, and welfare of the people in the area served by Special People the in Northeast, Inc., a Pennsylvania nonprofit corporation for the Hospitals and Higher Education Facilities Authority of Philadelphia to participate in the financing of certain projects for Special People in the Northeast.
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.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. SECOND READING - BILL 010509
The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 010509.
An ordinance amending Section 21-01 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Residence Requirements," by providing that the active law enforcement officers from elsewhere in the United States entering into civil service positions in the Philadelphia Police Department need not be bona fide residents of the City when appointed but must establish and maintain bona fide residence in the City within six months after appointment.
Madam President, point of order. There's been a change. I'm going to hold that bill until further notice.
The next bill being called for consideration is Bill No. 010524.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by permitting certain additional uses in G-2 industrial districts located generally within the area commonly known as the Philadelphia Auto Mall, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. SECOND READING - BILL NO. 010526
The next bill for consideration is Bill No. 010526.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zonings designations of certain areas of land located within an area generally bounded by Parkside Avenue, 50th Street, a railroad right-of-way, and 51st 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.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. SECOND READING - BILL NO. 010540
The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 010540.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-100 and by amending Section 14-303, entitled "C2 Commercial District," all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 5. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. SECOND READING - BILL 010605
The last bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 010605.
An ordinance adopting an amendment to the articles of incorporation of the Manayunk Special Services District of Philadelphia to extend the term of that authority, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. That concludes our calendar for today. SECOND READING - BILL 010605
Are there speeches on the part of the Minority? (No speeches on the part of the Minority.)
Are there speeches on the part of the Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. On September 13, this Council unanimously passed a resolution that I sponsored calling on the Philadelphia Reinvestment Commission to establish community reinvestment agreements with banks entering the Philadelphia market. The resolution cited a commission member, Mellon Bank, who sold its branches to Citizens Financial. Mellon's appointment to that commission was due to its market share of small-business lending in low-income communities. Recently released data from the City Controller's Office shows that loans to small business in low-income communities are decreasing; yet what the Citizens Financial does is it enters our market here, a $350,000 publicity stunt, SECOND READING - BILL 010605 offering a free ride for five hours on SEPTA. Well, as Chair of Council's Transportation Committee, a member of the Commerce and Economic Development Committee, and a policy leader with regard to community reinvestment, I contend that Citizens Financial shouldn't get a free ride or a cheap ride into our market. Once again, I call on the Reinvestment Commission to seek a community reinvestment agreement with Citizens Financial that ensures that all communities get their fair share of bank deposits reinvested in their communities. The $350,000 publicity stunt is disrespectful relative to the billions of dollars deposited by Philadelphians. In fact, to be a little bit more specific, as of June 30, 1991, the 50 Mellon offices in Philadelphia had deposits from Philadelphians of 4.2 billion. To tell you how it plays out on a neighborhood level, the Mellon branch at 52nd and Market, 15 South 52nd Street, has $28 million in it, but how much of that money is reinvested in the community in terms of small-business loans or affordable mortgages? The Mellon branch at 2942 North 22nd SECOND READING - BILL 010605 Street has $6 million. 3711 Germantown Avenue has 16 million. 427 North 63rd has $27 million. And on and on and on, adding up to $4.2 billion. Now, this is only the third largest bank in Philadelphia. As we consider neighborhood transformation next week and over the next two weeks, we must consider not only the public finance of tearing things down, but the private finance of redevelopment. All Philadelphians should not only get their fair share of tax dollars, but also bank deposits reinvested in their communities. Thank you.
Thank you. Are there any other speeches on the part of the majority? (No further speeches on the part of the Majority.) MEETING ADJOURNS
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion.
Madam President, I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, December 13 2001, at 10 a.m.
It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, December 13 at 10 a.m. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and Council stands adjourned until Thursday, December 13, 2001, at 10 a.m. Thank you. (Proceedings end at 11:34 a.m..) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Thursday, December 6, 2001, are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. RE: STATED MEETING _______________________________, Josephine Cardillo Registered Professional Reporter and 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.)