COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Thursday, 6/6/02, 10:43 a.m. Room 696, City Hall Philadelphia, PA PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN 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 ANGEL L. ORTIZ 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 6/6/02 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 please come to order, members will take their seats. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes the Reverend Gary Dunlap, Pastor of the Macedonia Free Will Baptist Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Clarke. All members and guests will please rise. (All rise.)
Let us pray. Father, once again, we come before You, we come before You to thank You for another day, another day that we have never seen. We pray that You -- we thank You for allowing us to be here. We pray, Lord, that you shower this place with wisdom, that you make the decisions made in this place today decisions that's best for all of those, every man and women, every boy, every girl that live in the City of Philadelphia. We thank You. Amen. 6/6/02 STATED - APPROVAL OF 5/30/02 JOURNAL ALL: Amen.
Amen. The Chair thanks Reverend Dunlap for his inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease.)
The next other of business is approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 30, 2002, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 30, 2002, stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 30, 2002, stand approved. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay? The ayes have it, the motion carries; therefore, the Journal of the meeting of Thursday May 30, 2002, stands approved. 5/30/02 STATED - REQUESTS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE
The next order of business is requests for leaves of absence, and the Chair recognizes 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 O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the Republicans, there are no requests for leaves of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. 5/30/02 STATED - REQUESTS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE
The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize guests and visitors joining us in chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our session. We appreciate you 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 Councilman O'Neill, who will present a resolution honoring Mr. Bill Fox. (Councilman O'Neill comes forward.)
Will Mr. Fox and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. (Honoree et al. come forward.)
Madam President, can Councilman Krajewski and Councilman Mariano come up and help me with this? (Councilmembers Krajewski and Mariano come forward.)
And also, Bill Fox has worked for the City a long time in the 5/30/02 STATED - REQUESTS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE Recreation Department, but for the last several years, he's been our Deputy Commerce Director, and I'd ask our commerce director, Jim Cuorato, to come up here with us. Also, Bill Fox is a neighbor and friend for a very long time of our state representative in the far northeast, in Somerton, George Kenny, who came down, I believe, from Harrisburg today to join us. George, if you could come up here and join us today, we'd be honored. (State Representative Kenny comes forward.)
This is a resolution honoring Bill Fox, Jr. The Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to join the Father Judge High School family in tribute to Coach Bill Fox Jr. for joining the Select 500 Club. Whereas, Coach Fox has been at Father Judge High School since 1974. He hit the ground running and has coached three Catholic league championship teams: 1974-75, 1976-77, and 1997-98. Having just finished his 26th year at Father Judge, he is only the third coach in the entire history of 5/30/02 STATED - REQUESTS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE the Catholic League of Philadelphia to enter the 500 Club; and...
And whereas, from the time he attended St. Christopher's Grade School, where his coach was the venerable Bill Fox, Sr., Bill had a love of basketball and was co-captain of his team at LaSalle College. He was so young when he started at Father Judge that the secretary thought he was a student. But he hit the ground running and never looked back; and...
Whereas, Bill Fox, Jr. loved his job and his school to which he has bore great distinction. He does, however, love his family above all, and his values and ethic are just as admirable as his great winning word. Now, therefore...
Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor and commend Coach Bill Fox, Jr. and congratulate him on becoming a member of the 500 Club and extend to him our respect and admiration. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Coach Bill Fox, Jr. as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this 5/30/02 STATED - REQUESTS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE legislative body. I mentioned Bill Fox Jr. several times because Bill Fox, Sr. is very much alive and kicking and is the President of the St. Christopher's Seniors Association, which is one of the largest in the City. Along with other family members, Mr. Fox is here. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 9th day of May, 2002. It's signed by the President of City Council, Anna Verna, and was introduced by the three Councilmembers up here and cosponsored by all Councilmembers. (Applause.)
Thank you, Council President Verna and her fellow Councilmembers. In working for the Commerce Department this year and a half is where I got my gray hair. (Laughter.)
I'm overwhelmed to be honored by doing something that I thoroughly enjoy. I'm 5/30/02 STATED - REQUESTS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE very fortunate to be involved with a high school like Father Judge with a fine academic and athletic reputation. We have many prestigious alumni, led by our director of commerce, Jim Cuorato. To achieve 500 wins, you have to have many talented players who actually come to practice. (Laughter.)
And I'm very fortunate to have my parents with me today; my number-one fan, my wife; my two favorite players, my two sons; family members, friends from Father Judge and the Commerce Department. I'm overwhelmed. Thank you. (Applause.)
Congratulations. Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease.)
The Chair at this time recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will make a presentation horning Ms. Erline Ac. Will those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. 5/30/02 STATED - REQUESTS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE (Honoree et al. come forward.)
Thank you, Madam President. This is an honor this morning to present this resolution, but before I begin, I have to say that Miss Ackworth was brought to us by one of my committee persons, Fred Horton, who is in the 50th Ward, 13th Division, an outstanding educator, a wonderful dancer, and an actor who appeared in Oprah Winfrey's "Beloved," and we are proud of him because he cares so much about education, and he keeps us thinking in the 50th Ward along those lines of providing quality education to children. But this morning, we are here to provide this resolution to a celebrity. You read about this woman recently in the newspaper, and this is a resolution honoring Mrs. Erline Ackworth. Whereas, Erline Ackworth was born in North Carolina and began working at a very early age, she also took care of her mother when she was ill, and as one of 12 children, absorbed the lifelong lessons of hard work, sharing, independence, and love of family; and 5/30/02 STATED - REQUESTS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE Whereas, Mrs. Ackworth became a truly acclaimed cook when she lived in the South, and that reputation has followed her here she. Can whip up a meal for 100 people and do it with a smile, and she cooks the way she does everything else: With love and praise; and Whereas, Mrs. Ackworth is the mother of six, and she and her husband, Oscar L. Ackworth, have also raised six sets of foster children, today, they are the proud grandparents of 33 and the great-grandparents of 18, along with four godsons; and Whereas, Erline, who is 78 years old, works part-time as a nurse's aide. She continues to cook. She is an active and enthusiastic member of the Church of Faith. She cares for her growing family and now, as if all that weren't enough, she has earned her high school diploma from the Philadelphia Regional High School. (Applause.)
And whereas Mrs. Ackworth has lived her faith every day, takes no glory in her accomplishment, but is grateful for the opportunity. It is our understanding that she 5/30/02 STATED - REQUESTS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE will also, and she did, attend her senior prom, a privilege she has earned through her years of hard work, forthrightness, determination, and discipline. Now, therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor and commend Mrs. Erline Ackworth on the occasion of her graduation from high school. She is an example of what we can -- of what can be accomplished regardless of age. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Mrs. Ackworth as evidence of the sincere appreciation and deep respect 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 16th day of May, 2002. It is signed by President Verna, introduced by Tasco and Richard Mariano, my colleague, and sponsored by all of the members of City Council. We thank you so much, Mrs. Ackworth. (Applause.)
The Chair at 5/30/02 STATED - REQUESTS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE this time recognizes Ms. Ackworth for remarks. God bless you, you're wonderful.
First of all, I would like to say good morning to each and everyone. I had one feeling when I walked in the door, but now I have about three or four feelings, and they all are great and the influence of everything and everybody that has accomplished [sic] me here this morning. First of all, I want to say thank you to the Councilmen, Councilwomen, and everybody of the Council -- and that way I don't miss anybody. (Laughter.)
And most of all, I have my husband here with me of over 40 years; and I have my bishop here with me, Bishop Claude R. Barnes; I have my principal here with me, Mr. Alan Liebowitz, and my -- I call him "my vice principal," Mr. Fred Horton. And my teachers -- where is my math teacher? Mrs. Math -- I call her "Mrs. Math" -have made me cry many a days in the classroom for algebra. And I tell you, it is not easy. And Mrs. Math would not let up on me; she was on me 5/30/02 STATED - REQUESTS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE just like white old rice. (Laughter.)
And I tell you, I appreciate her and I appreciate Mr. Liebowitz. I have neighbors of mine back in the back, which I call "my daughter." Mrs. Moses, would you stand please. (Applause.)
Then I have my godson from my church. Would you stand, please, Christian Hunter. (Applause.)
And then I wrote some things down, but I don't think I'm even going by this paper. And I have my student body. These are my body guards. (Laughter.)
They told my pastor this morning -- he said something, and they said, "Don't worry, we have her back." (Laughter.)
And I appreciate these students because they have motivated me as well as 5/30/02 STATED - REQUESTS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE I have motivated them, and I have to say to my young students, the males and the females, when they come in this school and they're not like the school represent and take on -- all I have to do is look at them. You see 'em pulling up they pants? You see 'em taking off their hats. "All right, Grandmom, we all right. We all right, Grandmom." And these are the things -- I am there to try to help the children. Someone asked me last week, did some of the children habits come off on me? I said yes and no, I said, but I try to do it so that my habits would come off on them, and I think this have worked. I could preach, but I'm not, I'm going to say it all. And I just say I thank you, each and everyone. And, Mr. Liebowitz, I just don't know what to say, because when I asked you about coming back to school, I really wasn't sincere. (Laughter.)
It was just something I had asked him to do, making conversation, but my granddaughter graduated from this school last year, and she says, Your lawyer helped me out with this. 5/30/02 STATED - REQUESTS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE I had a problem getting her into school, but through it all, we made it. And let me tell you something, I made it. (Applause.)
And I tell you something else: I might give out, but I'm not going to give up. (Applause.)
Because I'm not going to sit in a rocking chair and grow old. Iron wears out, but I'm on Rust-Away. (Laughter.)
And, again, I thank the Councilmen, and I just don't know what I'm going to do with this -- I just don't know what to say, but just thank you, thank you, thank you, and thank you. (Applause.)
I forgot to tell you something. I'm really looking for employment. (Laughter.)
And I will not be late. 5/30/02 STATED - REQUESTS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE (Laughter.)
Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease.) (Council proceedings resume.) 6/6/02 STATED - 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.
Thank you. 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
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 immediate 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 have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I introduce one resolution on your behalf.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the City of Philadelphia deeds located in the 30th and 36th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution honoring the News Gleaner on the occasion of its 120th anniversary.
Move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution encouraging the Eagles and the Phillies to continue honoring the memory and contributions of veterans at the newly-constructed baseball and football facilities.
Madam President, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution calling upon City Council's Committee on Education to hold hearings making inquiries and investigations relating to the School Reform Commission's proposed plan to reorganize and fund the School District of the City of Philadelphia.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS 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 is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and one resolution.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending the Philadelphia Code by adding requirements applicable to landlords who rent to students in educational housing districts and through colleges and universities attended by such students and by making technical changes.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
And a resolution 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia deeds located in the 44th Ward City of the City of Philadelphia.
Madam President, I move 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 resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions this morning.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode. 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution recognizing the achievements of Philly Pride Presents for the lesbian, gay bisexual and transgendered Pride Parade and festival as they continue their mission of proactive education to create an atmosphere of sensitivity and awareness that will lead to a greater acceptance of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered community of Philadelphia.
Madam Chair, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and motion carries. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
And a resolution urging the United States Senate to reject the nomination of Judge D. Brooke Smith to the Third Circuit Court of Appeals.
I move 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 record will reflect that Councilman O'Neill voted no, Councilman Rizzo also is voting 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS no, and Councilman Longstreth is voting no.
I'm sure the record will reflect your remarks. (Councilman Cohen's remarks inaudible to stenographer.)
The majority of the Councilmembers having voted in the affirmative, this resolution passes. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill and one resolution.
The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the striking from City Plan No. 238 and abandoning of a certain right of way for drainage purposes within the City lines of former Clymer Street.
The bill will 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS be referred to the appropriate committee.
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 New Kensington Fishtown Urban Renewal Area.
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 those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Madam President. I have four resolutions and four bills.
Thank you. 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. 58 by placing on the City Plan Mt. Vernon from 10th Street to a point approximately 90 feet southwesterly.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing G2S2 Associations, owner of the property 1605-1627 Sansom Street, to construct and maintain a building encroachment over and above the 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS north footway of the 1600 block of Sansom Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Pennsylvania of Academy of Fine Arts, owner of the properties 118 North Broad Street and 128 North Broad Street, to construct, own, and maintain various encroachments under, on, and over the north footway of Cherry Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 4 of the Philadelphia Administrative Code, Chapter 3, to amend Section a. 303.2 to require notice of demolition of residents of neighborhood properties, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution.
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 motion carries. The clerk will please read the next resolution.
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 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Renewal Area.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The clerk will please read the third resolution.
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.
Thank you, Madam 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS 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 aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The clerk will please read the final resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City deeds located in the 14th Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been 6/6/02 STATED - INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS 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 Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth.
Councilman Longstreth has no bills or resolutions today. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Councilwoman Blackwell, I know that we recessed the Finance Committee hearing and meeting. How much of a recess do you think we would need to come to a conclusion of the hearing?
Madam President, certainly, if I had my way, we would have reported the bills out earlier. Having said that, I believe that we are at the tail-end of the hearing and that all is done, with the exception of submitting amendments to the resolution. So I'm hoping that we could do that -if my colleagues agree, those members of the Finance Committee, I would like us to be able to do that within 20 minutes. Is that enough time, members of the Finance Committee? If they agree, Madam President, we can get that in and out so that we can finish that and then come back and complete this session of Council. Could we do that now?
Well, we can recess this hearing and go into the Finance Committee hearing, and then come back. All right, Council will now stand in 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS recess while -
I'm sorry, I only heard the tail-end of the conversation, but I think I have the substance of the issue. Madam President, I have no idea how long it will take. There were outstanding questions on NTI. I think Councilwoman Blackwell, Chair of the Finance Committee, knows that we were in the middle of questioning when it became obvious that we needed to get our Council session started. So short of any commitment about time -- because you never know how long the questioning is going to take -- I know that we're going to get back into the Finance Committee, and we'll get back into it whenever the Chair decides, but I would like to have the full flexibility with regard to the ability to ask questions.
Are the members of the Administration here so that we could proceed with... Councilman Cohen?
Okay, I think there 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS are a number of people here who are interested in matters of the agenda. There's one matter I'm very much interested in, and I think the people of Philadelphia have a right to hear Council in action on that matter, and I would not like to see them leave here without knowing what Council has done and how Council approaches the question. Therefore, I believe that it's in everybody's interest, particularly the public's interest involved in matters like wage-tax cuts among others, and that's the issue that I'm going to be raising and dealing with today. I think it's important that the public be here. My suggestion is that we go through the regular agenda of the Council meeting, call all of the bills for action so that the people that are here can find out how Council acts on various things and will get that information. (Applause.)
And then just before we finish, we can recess for the Finance Committee and come back later. That way, the public won't be inconvenienced.
What is the 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS desire of the members of the Council? Shall we go forward and -
I realize that we have a number of people that have been waiting here since quite early this morning. I have no objection personally to doing what you suggest.
Excuse me, Madam President. Is it legal to run the calendar before we report the committee reports?
Is it legal to run the calendar before we have committee reports; and if so, I would suggest we run the calendar.
I just don't want to 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS lose the audience. A lot of people are here on the wage-tax bill and they would like to hear what Council will (inaudible.) (Applause.)
I think people who are here have a right to know what Council -(Unintelligible; parties talking over each other.)
Councilman Cohen, please. (Council President Verna strikes gavel.)
Councilman Cohen -- I'm sorry -- Councilman O'Neill, it is my understanding that we will call a five-minute recess, and within that period of time, the 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS appropriate action will be taken and we can then come right back into our Council session.
Even when we come back, I would still second Councilman Goode's motion that for the people here, with so many bills being reported out, that we make the committee reports after the calendar's run, when we get to that point. Thank you.
We can't do that. Council will stand in recess for five minutes.
And I would suggest that everybody stay in their seats, please. 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS We would like to get through this as quickly as possible. Therefore, the Chair is asking Councilwoman Blackwell to please call her committee back into session. Please ask the Administration to approach the witness table if it is still there. Otherwise, please sit -- yeah, thank you.
Council has a history of five-minute recesses that last an hour or two. Don't let it happen today. (Stated meeting recessed while Finance Committee proceedings resume.) (Stated meeting proceedings resume.) 6/6/02 STATED - RECOGNITION OF M. TASCO ACHIEVEMENT
We will now, as I said, resume our session. And before doing so, we have recognized this morning several people, but I am absolutely delighted to recognize one of our own. I am pleased to announce that over a pool of over 500 applicants, our colleague Councilwoman Marion Tasco is one of 8 women who were selected as recipients of the 2002 Good Housekeeping Magazine Awards for women in government. (Applause.)
Nominated by ACORN, Councilwoman Tasco was selected for her efforts to lead the fight against predatory lending in Philadelphia and for her roll in making the issue of predatory lending a major national public-policy matter. This award is being given by Good Housekeeping Magazine in conjunction with the Center for American Women in Politics. The winners were selected by a panel lead by former United States Representative Geraldine Ferraro and Tilly Fowler. 6/6/02 STATED - RECOGNITION OF M. TASCO ACHIEVEMENT Councilwoman, we're extremely, extremely proud of you. Congratulations. (Applause.) 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND-READING CALENDAR BILLS
All right. We will now, as I said, resume our session. And I would just like to say we have an awful lot of reports from committees. There are approximately 45 bills on the first-reading calendar, and I would be very happy to entertain a motion that we suspend the rules so that we could go directly to the second-reading calendar, and if someone would make that motion, because we do have all of these people here. Hopefully we could entertain it.
Councilman Nutter, you look a little complex [sic]. I'm saying what we could do is suspended the rules. We've had people sitting here waiting for a number of hours now. We could go directly to our second-reading calendar. Councilman Goode?
Thank you. Thank you, Madam President. I move to suspend the rules of Council to consider bills on second reading and final passage before committee reports and bills on first 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND-READING CALENDAR BILLS reading. (Duly seconded.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell to call up bills on the second-reading and final-passage calendar to be called for consideration this morning.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning Bill No.'s 010492, 010659, 020231, 020309, 020183, 020225, 020226, 020276, 020343, 020344, and 020256 are being called up for second reading and final passage.
Councilman DiCicco, did you not indicate that Bill No. 020227 is also -
Yes, Madam President. We're correcting that. Thank you.
Bill No. 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020227 020227 is also being called up for second reading and final passage. All other bills are being held.
The first bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 010492.
An ordinance amending Title 19 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Finance, Taxes and Collections," by creating a Rainy Day Fund to cushion the impact of unanticipated declines in City revenues, providing for the circumstances under which City monies must be deposited into the Rainy Day Fund and the circumstances under which expenditures may be made from the Rainy Day Fund and providing for the custody and management of the Rain Day Fund, all under certain terms and conditions.
Councilman Clarke? 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020227
Councilman Mariano? (No response. Councilman Mariano apparently not present at this time.)
Councilwoman Miller? (No response. Councilwoman Miller apparently not present at this time.)
Please go on. 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020227
Aye. The ayes are 8, the nays are 6, the motion fails. Councilwoman Miller, did you want to cast your vote?
The count is 8-8, and the motion fails. The next bill to be called for 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020227 consideration is -
I know there's been a lot of back-and-forth. I'm just looking for a clarification on the vote total.
Councilman Nutter, I think we just got another vote.
No, I heard that the. Reason I asked was before Councilman Mariano came in, I thought I heard you say it was 8-8, but I thought I was under the impression that it may be 7-9 at that point, but I certainly could be well wrong. So it was 8-8? Okay, so it's 8-9 now?
I think the Chief Clerk and Mr. McPherson were taking it down.
The nays are 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 010659 9, the ayes are 8, and the motion fails.
The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 010659.
An ordinance amending Chapter 10-700 of the Philadelphia Code concerning refuse and littering by adding a new section, entitled "Residential Eligibility for Municipal Collection," 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.
Council President Verna? 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 010659
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. (Applause.)
A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. (Applause.) 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020227
The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 020227.
An ordinance dissolving the Schmidts Plaza Tax Increment Financing District and creating the Schmidts Plaza II Tax Increment Financing District and doing all things necessary to carry out the intent of this ordinance.
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.
Councilwoman Krajewski? 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020227
Aye. The ayes are Councilman Goode, did you say "nay"? 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020227
Thank you. The votes are 16 ayes, 1 nay. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020
The clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 02031.
An ordinance dissolving the Jump Street Tax Increment Financing District and creating the 1600 North Broad Tax Increment Financing District and doing all things necessary to carry out the intent of this ordinance.
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.
Councilwoman Krajewski? 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 1. A majority of all members having voted in the 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020309 affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration is Bill No. 020309.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-1500 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Wage and Net-Profits Tax," by decreasing in stages the rates of the tax imposed upon certain low-income persons, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally?
Madam President, I move to have Bill No. 020309 tabled. (Duly seconded.)
Madam President, I object very much to tabling. People are here, and they have a right to see not only what Council does but how each Councilmember acts.
I just made a 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020309 motion, Councilman.
The Inquirer this morning has a headline in the B Section -(Unintelligible; parties talking over each other.)
Madam President, Councilman Cohen is out of order.
It's about time the ordinary citizen begins reaping some ordinary benefits.
Councilman Cohen. (Council President Verna strikes gavel.)
And that's what this bill is about, and the people of Philadelphia have an absolute right to see how their representatives in City Council act on this bill. The older senior citizens, the senior parents, they all have a right to know how -6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020309
As usual, I would request that you identify what an aye or nay vote means on the motion to hide under the table that we're considering now.
I thought it was to hide under the table, I wasn't sure.
Oh, hide under the table, okay. To table. Councilman Cohen, you can't do that, please.
(Inaudible, off 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020309 mic.)
An aye vote would be regarding Councilwoman Krajewski's motion to table the bill.
This motion to suspend the rules to permit discussion on this particular motion to table takes precedence over a motion to table.
We always have the right to suspend the rules to permit ourselves to meet our obligations to the people who elected us to office. (Council President Verna strikes gavel.)
Madam Chair, I just want a point of information. A motion to table 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020309 really means a motion not to vote on a wage-tax reduction for poor people; is that correct?
(Inaudible.) And that's why they want to table this motion.
Councilman Ortiz, I was distracted. Okay, Councilman Clarke.
I believe there was a motion to table and it was seconded. I'm requesting a roll-call vote.
That motion is overcome by a motion to suspend the rules to permit a discussion.
(Inaudible, off mic.) (Council President Verna 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020309 strikes gavel.)
There's a point of information. Councilman Kenney?
Point of information. (Unintelligible; parties talking over each other.)
Thank you. I was wondering if I could have a two-minute recess so I could check with the second floor to see how I should vote on this motion.
A motion to suspend the rules always takes precedence. (Council President Verna strikes gavel.) 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020309
Councilman Kenney, I believe you have a point of order.
More important than the order, Madam President, are the rights of the people of Philadelphia: They have a right to know how their elected representatives vote on issues. This motion to table is a farcical motion to hide how Councilmembers feel and how they're voting.
Look, if you have a point of view, express it. Tell the people you don't think working people deserve the right to wage-tax relief, even though both political parties are committed to it. So at least have the guts to speak your mind. That's what you were elected for. (Council President Verna strikes gavel.)
Councilman Goode's light is on. Councilman Goode?
Madam President, could we please call the roll on Councilwoman 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020309 Krajewski's motion.
There's a motion that supersedes the motion to table, and I ask that that vote should be first considered.
There is -there's another motion. I don't -- there's just so much going on that...
My motion to suspend the rules to permit discussion is to permit Philadelphians to know how their Councilmembers feel. I think the little old ladies in the gray shoes ought to find out who -- how their Councilman feels about their ability to earn a couple of extra dollars and have it for food on the table. Don't hide your feelings. Tell your people you don't think they deserve it, if that's how you want to vote. Don't try to hide behind these rules of tabling. The motion to suspend the rules takes precedence over a motion to table. I don't know why Councilmembers should feel they have to run to cover. Did the Mayor tell you that you don't 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020309 have any right to talk, even though you were individually elected to your Council seat? I don't understand this sudden quiet on the part of Councilmembers. We're known for talking, making noise, representing our people properly. I think that the senior citizens on Social Security earning a few extra dollars in a part-time job, do you have to take away the wage tax away from them too? Why can't they earn their money so that they can live a little better life? The federal government and state government permit that; why don't we? Don't you think they shouldn't have the right to be free from the City wage tax? Get up and say so. (Council President Verna strikes gavel.)
Councilman, I believe your motion was made and seconded. Therefore, we will call a roll to suspend the rules so that we could debate. (Applause.)
Madam President, point of order. It's not our rules. It's in Mason's Manual, it's not in the Council's rules. 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020309 We've adopted Mason's Manual and Mason's Manual is very clear, we've been through this many times before. A motion to table takes precedence over all other motions and is not subject to debate. And I would appeal the ruling of the chair if that is the ruling.
I'll appeal -(Unintelligible; parties talking over each other.)
Madam Chair, you said it was a rule that could be suspended. It's not one of our rules. If counsel told you that, I believe they're in error, and I would appeal the ruling.
(Inaudible). ...tell her, tell her directly. Don't hide and say the matter didn't come up because we tabled it. Even the Republicans in Washington and Harrisburg permit these. 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020309
Councilman O'Neill, it is a rule, and the rules can be suspended if you would like to -
Tell the cafeteria workers that you don't think they deserve from the wage tax. Tell 'em you think they make too much money because they make enough so they eat one meal instead of three meals a day. Tell 'em, but be honest. Go and tell 'em you don't think they deserve relief, if that's the way you feel. I think the majority of this City Council had voted overwhelming, 11 to 3, to permit this kind of tax relief, and now a small group apparently controlled by the Mayor wants to prevent 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020309 the voices of City Council from being heard. (Council President Verna strikes gavel.)
You are debating the issue. Please, a motion is on the floor. (Council President Verna strikes gavel.)
Councilman, you put a motion on the floor, it has been seconded, and we will call a vote on it, but please don't debate it now. You are not debating the bill now, Councilman. Councilman, you are not debating the bill now. You made a motion and it has been seconded and we will call it up for a vote, but I ask you, please do not debate it now. The clerk will please call the roll on Councilman Cohen's motion to suspend the rules.
Councilwoman Blackwell? 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020309
Aye. The ayes are 7, the nays are 10. The motion fails. Now we will consider Councilwoman Krajewski's motion to table.
Council President Verna? 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020309
No. The ayes are 9, the nays are 8. The vote is 9-8, and the bill is tabled.
This is a fight that will go on. (Council President Verna strikes gavel.) 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020183
The clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 020183.
An ordinance approving a new plan, estimated cost, and proposed method of charges of the Manayunk Special Services District of the City of Philadelphia.
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.
Councilwoman Krajewski? 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020183
Councilwoman Tasco? (No response. Councilwoman Tasco apparently not present at this time.)
Is Councilwoman Tasco in the room? 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020183 Please proceed.
Aye. The ayes are 16, the nays are 0. (Councilwoman Tasco returns to chamber.)
Councilwoman Tasco should be vote recorded as voting aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020225
The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 020225.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by making certain technical amendments, 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 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020226 The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 020226.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Roosevelt Boulevard and Ridge Avenue. 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.
Councilwoman Krajewski? 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020226
Aye. The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all members of Council having voted in 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020276 the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 020276.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2002 within the Grants Revenue Fund for Other Grants to the City Representative and the Director of Commerce.
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 17, the nays are 0. A 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020276 majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 020343.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriation for Fiscal Year 2002 within the Water Fund from the Department of Revenue to the Department of Revenue.
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 17, the nays are 0. A 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020344 majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 020344.
An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2002 within the General Fund from the Department of Revenue - Sinking Fund Commission to the Register of Wills and the Sheriff.
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.
Councilman Kenney? 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND READING, BILL 020344
Aye. 6/6/02 STATED - SECOND REDING, BILL 020256 The ayes are 17, the nays are 0. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 020256.
An ordinance amending Chapter 21-800 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Advancement of Economic Opportunities," by amending Section 21-802 by adding a subsection on targeted investments in women's businessdevelopment finance.
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 17 the nays are 0. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS
The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Madam President, the Committee on Rules reports out ten bills with favorable recommendations.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred: Bill No. 020253, an ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Ontario Urban Renewal Area; And Bill No. 020274, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designation of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Morris and Vare Avenue; And Bill No. 020279, an ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the American Street 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS Industrial Corridor Urban Renewal Area; And Bill No. 020282, an ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of a portion of the West Parkside Lancaster Redevelopment Area; And Bill No. 020283, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by making certain technical amendments; And Bill No. 020284, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 24, 1959, as amended, for the redevelopment of the East Poplar Urban Renewal Area; And Bill No. 020315, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 14, 1971, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal for the redevelopment of the South Central Urban Renewal Area; And Bill No. 020317, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal for the redevelopment of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area; 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS And Bill No. 020345, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Frankford Avenue and Grant Avenue; And Bill No. 020346, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Linden Avenue and the Delaware River Respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 020253, 020274, 020279, 020282, 020283, 020284, 020315, 020317, 020345, and 020346.
It has been 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No.'s 020253, 020274 020279, 020282, 020283, 020284, 020315, 020317, 020345, and 020346. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay? The ayes have it and the bills just read will be placed on our first-reading calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a report from the Committee on Finance.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Finance reports out seven bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the City Council Philadelphia, the Committee on Finance, to which was referred: Bill No. 020075, an ordinance approving 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS the Fiscal Years 2002 Capital Budget providing for expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works; And Bill No. 020275, an ordinance authorizing the Mayor, on behalf of the City, to file an application with the United States Housing and Urban Development for a Community Development Block Grant; And Bill No. 020338, an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of the Budget Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in an aggregate amount not to exceed $40,500,000; And Bill No. 020340, an ordinance declaring that it is desirable for the health, safety, and welfare of the people in the area served by the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia; And Bill No. 020348, ordinance amending and restating the ordinance approved July 12, 1968, as amended, effective January 1, 1999 relating to pension benefits for employees working on behalf of the Philadelphia Gas Works; And Bill No. 020355, an ordinance 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS dissolving the St. James Court Tax Increment Financing District, being the area generally bounded by Eighth Street on the west, Walnut Street on the north, St. James Court on the south, and Washington Square on the east, in accordance with the Tax Increment Financing Act, as amended Respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council -- excuse me. And Bill No. 020361, an ordinance declaring that it is desirable for the health, safety, and welfare of the people served in the area by the Temple University Hospital in the vicinity 3401 North Broad Street Respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. (Council President Verna strikes gavel.)
I'd like to remind everyone that we're still in session. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No.'s 020075, 020275, 020338, 020340, 020348, 020355, and 020361.
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 020075, 020275, 020338, 02340, 020348, 020355, and 020361. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the bills just read will be placed on our first-reading calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Public Property and 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS Public Works reports out seven bills with favorable recommendations.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Property, to which was referred: Bill No. 020312, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located in the vicinity of 19th Street and Allegheny Avenue; And Bill No. 020316, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to enter into a further agreement with a lease between the City and the Far Northeast Senior Citizens; And Bill No. 020347, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located in the vicinity of American Street and Montgomery Avenue; 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS And Bill No. 020380, an ordinance authorizing Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed to convey fee simple title to a certain property located in the vicinity of 52nd and Jefferson Street; And Bill No. 020381, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to acquire that certain parcel of land commonly known as 4815 Schmeck Street and 200 Fountain Street; And Bill No. 020383, an ordinance authorizing PECO Energy Company to construct, own, and maintain seven concrete planters in the north footway of Market Street; And Bill No. 020384, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and Fairmount Park Commission, on behalf of the City, to execute a deed located in the vicinity of 21st Street and 22nd and Hamilton Streets Respectfully reports it has considered same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney. 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading today of Bill No.'s 020312, 020316, 020347, 020380, 020381, 020383, and 020384. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so was a to permit first reading this day of Bill No.'s 020312, 020316, 020347, 020380, 020381, 020383, and 020384. All 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. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco for the purpose of submitting a report from the Committee on Streets and Services.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Streets and Services 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS reports out 22 bills out with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Committee on Streets and Services, to which was referred: Bill No. 020049, an ordinance amending an ordinance January 3, 1992, as amended, which, pursuant to Section 9-204, by deleting all permitted vending locations on both sides of Eighth Street and Ninth Street between Arch and Market Streets; And Bill No. 020167, an ordinance authorizing 801 Market Street Holdings, owner of the property 801 Market Street, to construct, use, and maintain two private pedestrian light posts, under certain terms and conditions; And Bill No. 020168, an ordinance authorizing 801 Market Street Holdings, owners of the property 801 Market Street, to construct, own, and maintain four concrete planters on the west footway of Eighth Street; 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS And Bill No. 020254, an ordinance revising a parking regulation on Norman Lane from Germantown Avenue to Crefield Street; And Bill No. 020257, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 308; And Bill No. 020259, an ordinance authorizing Liberty Property to construct and maintain two aluminum flag poles and appurtenances in and under the south footway of Vine Street; And Bill No. 020277, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 209; And Bill No. 020339, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 24 and 25-S within an area bounded by New Hope Street and Vare Avenue; And Bill No. 020341, an ordinance authorizing the paving of Douglas Street and Natrona Street, Moore Street and Mifflin Street; And Bill No. 020342, an ordinance authorizing Drexel University to construct and maintain various encroachments within an area bounded by 32nd Street; 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS And Bill No. 020349, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 242; And Bill No. 020350, an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance authorizing the vacating of River Road; And Bill No. 020351, an ordinance authorizing Brinker International, doing business as Maggiano's, to construct and maintain various encroachments projecting onto and over the north footway of Filbert Street; And Bill No. 020352, an ordinance granting permission to Pigalle Restaurant, located at 702-704 North Second Street, to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe; And Bill No. 020353, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 237; And Bill No. 020354, an ordinance authorizing the Holy Name of Jesus Parish to construct, own, and maintain a retaining wall with mounted fence and landscaped on and over the south footway of East Gaul Street; And Bill No. 020356, an ordinance 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS granting permission to Payal News, owner of the newsstand at the northeast corner of 11th and Market Streets; And Bill No. 020357, an ordinance the authorizing installation of stop signs on Krewstown Road; And Bill No. 020358, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 319; And Bill No. 020359, an ordinance authorizing the Center City District to construct, own, and maintain 97 pedestrian streetlight poles and luminaries along Market Street; And Bill No. 020360, an ordinance granting permission to Redhouse Bagels and Deli, tenants of the property 2501 Olive Street, to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe; And Bill No. 020362, an ordinance granting permission to 18th & Walnut News, owner of the newsstand on 18th Street, for the purpose of supplying electrical and telephone service to the newsstand, under certain terms and conditions Respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS with a favorable recommendation.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading today of the 22 bills that have just been read into the record. (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 020049, 020167, 020168, 020254, 020257, 020259, 020277, 020339, 020341, 020342, 020349, 020350, 020351, 020353, 020354, 020356, 020357, 020358, 020359, 020360, and 020361. All in favor will indicate saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the bills will be placed on today's first-reading calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano for a report from the Committee on Licenses and Inspections.
Thank you, Madam President. 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS The Committee on Licenses and Inspections reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Committee on Licenses and Inspections, to which was referred: Bill No. 020310, an ordinance amending Title 4 of the Philadelphia Code by adding provisions regulating the maintenance and inspection of piers and other waterfront structures; And Bill No. 020313, an ordinance amending Title 4 of the Philadelphia Code by requiring that special certificates of inspection must be issued in connection with structures and Use Group B, the educational use group, on an annual basis Respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation. 6/6/02 STATED - COMMITTEE REPORTS
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 020310 and Bill No. 020313. (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 020310 and 020313. All in favor will say aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the bills just read will be placed on today's first-reading calendar. That concludes the committee reports. 6/6/02 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR
Our next order of business is the consideration of the calendar, and the clerk please read bills on the first-reading calendar.
Bill No. 020253, an ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Ontario Urban Renewal Area.
And Bill No. 020274, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations on certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Morris Street and Vare Avenue.
And Bill No. 020279, an ordinance approving redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the American Street Industrial Corridor Urban Renewal Area.
The Chair 6/6/02 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR agrees.
And Bill No. 020282, an ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of a portion of the West Parkside Lancaster Redevelopment Area.
And Bill No. 020283, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-200.
And Bill No. 020284, an ordinance approved December 24, 1959, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal for the redevelopment of the East Poplar Urban Renewal Area.
And Bill No. 020315, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 14, 1971, as amended, which approved the 6/6/02 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR redevelopment proposal for the redevelopment of the South Central Urban Renewal Area.
And Bill No. 020317, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal for the redevelopment of the Model Cities Urban Renewal area.
And Bill No. 020345, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within the area bounded by Frankford Avenue, Leon Street, and Grant Avenue.
And Bill No. 020346, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Linden Avenue and the Delaware River.
The Chair 6/6/02 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR agrees.
And Bill No. 020075, an ordinance approving the Fiscal Year 2002 Capital Budget, providing for the expenditures for the capital purposes of the Philadelphia Gas Works.
And Bill No. 020275, an ordinance authorizing the Mayor, on behalf of the City, to file an application with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for a Community Development Block Grant.
And Bill No. 020338, an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application with the Office of the Budget in an aggregate amount not to exceed $40,500,000.
And Bill No. 020340, an ordinance declaring that it is desirable for the health, safety, and welfare of the people in the 6/6/02 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR area served by the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia to participate in projects located at 34th and Civic Center Boulevard.
And Bill No. 020348, an ordinance amending and restating the ordinance approved July 12, 1968, as amended, effective January 1, 1999, relating to the pension benefits for employees working on behalf of the Philadelphia Gas Works.
And Bill No. 020355, an ordinance dissolving the St. James Court Tax Increment Financing District.
And Bill No. 020361, an ordinance declaring that it is desirable for the health, safety, and welfare of the people in the area served by the Temple University Hospital in the vicinity of 3401 North Broad Street for the Hospitals Higher Education Facilities Authority. 6/6/02 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR
And Bill No. 020312, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located in the vicinity of 19th and Allegheny Avenue.
And Bill No. 020316, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to enter into a further amendment to a lease between the City and the Far Northeast Senior Citizens.
And Bill No. 020347, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development deeds located in the vicinity of American Street and Montgomery Avenue.
I'm sorry. What was the bill number of that? 6/6/02 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR
And Bill No. 020380, an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to convey fee simple title to a certain property located in the vicinity of 52nd and Jefferson Street.
And Bill No. 020381, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to acquire by purchase, condemnation, or other means that certain parcel of land commonly known as 4815 Schmeck Street and 200 Fountain Street.
And Bill No. 020383, an ordinance authorizing PECO Energy to construct, own, and maintain seven concrete planters on the north footway of Market Street.
The Chair agrees. 6/6/02 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR
And Bill No. 020384, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Fairmount Park Commission, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located in the vicinity of 21st and 22nd and Hamilton Street.
And Bill No. 020049, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved January 3, 1992 by deleting all permitted vending locations on both sides of Eighth and Ninth Street between Arch and Market Streets.
And Bill No. 020167, an ordinance authorizing 801 Market Street Holdings, owners of the property 801 Market Street, to construct two private pedestrian light posts with underground appurtenances.
And Bill No. 020168, an 6/6/02 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR ordinance authorizing 801 Market Street Holdings, owner of the properties 801 Market Street, to construct four concrete planters, all under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 020254, an ordinance revising the parking regulation on Norman Lane from Germantown Avenue to Crefield Street.
And Bill No. 020257, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 308 by relocating the northerly curbline of St. James Street.
And Bill No. 020259, an ordinance authorizing Liberty Property, a Philadelphia limited partnership, to construct two aluminum flag poles and four in-ground flood light fixtures.
Thank you. 6/6/02 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR The Chair agrees.
And Bill No. 020277, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 290.
And Bill No. 020339, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of 24 and 25-S within an area bounded by New Hope Street, 29th Street, Tasker Street, and Vare Avenue.
And Bill No. 020341, an ordinance authorizing the paving of Douglas Street, Natrona Street, 32nd Street, and 31st Street.
And Bill No. 020342, an ordinance authorizing Drexel University to construct and maintain within an area bounded by 32nd Street as it extends north on Market Street to construct, use, and maintain a conduit trench for water service and electrical service. 6/6/02 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR
And Bill No. 020349, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 242.
And Bill No. 020350, an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance approved August 31, 2001, an ordinance authorizing the vacating of River Road.
And Bill No. 020351, an ordinance authorizing Brinker International, doing business as Maggiano's, a tenant of the property 1201-1239 Filbert Street, to constructs and maintain various encroachments on Filbert Street.
And Bill No. 020352, an ordinance granting permission to Pigalle Restaurant, located at 702-704 North Second Street, to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe. 6/6/02 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR
And Bill No. 020353, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 328.
And Bill No. 020354, an ordinance authorizing Holy Name of Jesus Parish, owner of the property 700-712 East Gaul Street, to construct, own, and maintain a retaining wall over the south footway East Gaul Street.
And Bill No. 020356, an ordinance granting permission to Payal News, owner of the newsstand at the northwest corner of 11th and Market Street, to construct, use, and maintain an electrical conduit.
And Bill No. 020357, an ordinance authorizing the installation of stop signs on Krewstown Road. 6/6/02 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR
And Bill No. 020358, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 319.
And Bill No. 020359, an ordinance authorizing the Center City District to construct, own, and maintain 97 pedestrian streetlight poles and luminaries along Market Street, between 15th Street and the Schuylkill River.
And Bill No. 020360, an ordinance granting permission to Redhouse Bagels and Deli, owner of the property 2501 Olive Street, to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe.
And Bill No. 020362, an ordinance granting permission to 18th & Walnut News, owner of the newsstand at the northeast 6/6/02 STATED - FIRST-READING CALENDAR corner of 18th Street and Walnut Street, to construct, use, and maintain an electrical conduit.
And Bill No. 020310, an ordinance amending Title 4 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Interior Structures," by adding provisions regulating the maintenance and inspection of piers and other waterfront structures, under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 020313, an ordinance amending Title 4 of the Philadelphia Code by requiring that special certificates of inspection be issued in connection with Use Group B, under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair agrees. That concludes our calendar for today. 6/6/02 STATED - SPEECHES
Are there speeches on the part of my North? (No speeches on the part of the minority.)
Are there speeches on the part of the Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. I'd just like to thank you again and all of my colleagues for their support on the predatory-lending bill and to say that the award that we received from Good Housekeeping Magazine and the Center for Women in Politics in New Jersey I have to share with all of you, I have to share it with my friend Mary Mason, who was very vocal and very helpful with us, to let the public know what was going on, as well as Paul Davis from the Daily News for his housing debt series. So we did get a prize, and I donated the prize to Bennett College, as you know, my favorite institution.
Thank you 6/6/02 STATED - SPEECHES again. (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam President. For those who were concerned about one item on the agenda that occurred, I've been told that the question of removing something from the table is a subject matter that can come up each week, so I just have to ask you on that issue for all of my colleagues and the public to just wait. I'm not sure what will happen next week; I was not sure last week what would happen today. And today I wasn't sure what was going to happen today. So it's an interesting story, but I think we're making progress. But I do want to point out one thing about the schools, where I'm also deeply concerned. It's very interesting that the main finance house for Edison Schools happens to be a Merrill Lynch stock brokerage firm, the oldest and most revered stock brokerage firm in the nation. When we expressed a lack of confidence 6/6/02 STATED - SPEECHES in Edison, it may have something to do with the fact that when we read the financial reports, it looked like Edison was a big company; they had revenues in excess of $400 million the last time I saw an annual report, and I had to say to myself, Maybe I'm wrong, maybe they are doing something right. And then suddenly, we learned about an SEC investigation of Edison because it turned out that this revenue was the kind of revenue that isn't money. For example, when Edison would go and manage a small school system in a state, they would list as their revenue all of the teachers' salaries, which never had even gone into the company's pocketbook in the first place; and if it had gone in, it would immediately go out as teachers' salary. They listed it as revenue of the company. So while they admitted they had never made any money and they were always losing money, they looked like a very successful company, with monies coming in of, say, a half a billion dollars a year, but it wasn't genuine money. That's what the SEC investigated and discovered and compelled 6/6/02 STATED - SPEECHES Edison to change its method of bookkeeping. They sort of said, Well, you're new and you don't know much. But the idea must have come to Edison from its financial advisor, Merrill Lynch, which also got investigated just about the same time by the Securities and Exchange Commission. The result of that investigation was that Merrill Lynch -- and that's the company, you know, you read about this morning that's making another $40 million available to Edison. It said that Merrill Lynch also used such tricky financing that they were fined -- hold your seat -$100 million. Imagine being fined $100 million for deceptive practices. And they were ordered to change those accounting practices. Now, one would think that when you get fined that heavily, no matter how big you are, it's got to hurt; and when it hurts, maybe it makes you think, and then you change your mind. Well, you know what happened? Edison then goes ahead -- not Edison, I'm sorry, not Edison. Merrill Lynch goes ahead with the changes they had to make as a result of being fined by the SEC to come up with a more honest financial 6/6/02 STATED - SPEECHES approach, and they put in a full-page advertisement -- you could have heard it in the Philadelphia Inquirer -- a long page in which they said they announced to the world that Merrill Lynch, in the interest of improving the accounting practices of the whole industry, was unveiling a whole new approach. Never once did they say, We're doing this because we were fined $100 million, we had to change as a result of that action against us, so these are the changes we're making. They said this was there idea. They never mentioned the fine, never mentioned the investigation or said, We'll decide on our own to come forth with this change. It's the same kind of deception and lying that they had been found guilty of before. Edison and Merrill Lynch seem to be made for one another, like the ad about New Jersey's good for lovers.
Well, Merrill Lynch was apparently good for Edison because they both were cheating and they both seem to be cheating today. That's the kind of reason that concerns parents of kids and kids in Philadelphia. How can we trust our kids' education to people who gamble 6/6/02 STATED - SPEECHES on the stock market. You know, it's true Edison never made a penny as a corporation, but when the owner of the Edison Company met with City Council in the caucus room and I questioned him about a report that he had made $100 million in stock sales, I asked him to confirm it or deny it or explain it, and he just said, Well, your figures may be a little off, but he never denied it. Well, you know what's interesting? In return for his $40 million of credit that Merrill Lynch is now making available to Edison on top of previous help they had given him, they have gotten the right to buy Edison stock at $1 a share. 50. A couple days ago, it was below $1. But if that stock goes up, who's going to reap the profits? If they make the profits, iff Edison makes profits out of Philadelphia's system, it's going to be the stock brokers, and I don't think it's right that our kids be used as an 6/6/02 STATED - SPEECHES instrument by which stock brokerage houses or companies like Edison can gamble for stock profits when they're dealing with the education of our children. That's why we're so concerned, and we're working so hard to win back the right of all Philadelphians to control the destiny of their kids' education. Thank you very much. )
I'm out of breath. I just want to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues, in particular Councilmen Cohen and Kenney, for working with me on Bill 659, the municipal trash collection bill, and I thank all of my colleagues for supporting the bill in the end. I want to thank the Condo Association representatives who worked with us, and in particular Streets Commissioner Johnson for the fine survey and report that he submitted to the Administration. I hope over the next few weeks, the Administration can come to terms with this bill 6/6/02 STATED - SPEECHES and provide the tax abatements or tax credits or rebates to those Condo Association. These are homeowners like the rest of us, and I believe they're entitled to the same level of service. I also would like to take this opportunity to congratulate our colleague Councilwoman Tasco on receiving the Good Housekeeping Award. The only thing disappointment I had is that you gave the money away; I thought you would be taking us all to dinner at the end of the session next week. (Laughter.)
Are there any other speeches on the part of the Majority? (No further speeches on the part of the Majority.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.
Madam President, I 6/6/02 STATED - ADJOURNMENT move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, June 13, 2002. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that City Council stand adjourned until Thursday, June 13, 2002, at 10 a.m. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and Council is adjourned. Thank you all very much. (Council proceedings end at 12:59 p.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Thursday, June 6 2002, are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me, 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.)