Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, October 20, 2016 10:20 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN ALLAN DOMB COUNCILMAN DEREK S. GREEN COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILWOMAN HELEN GYM COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN CHERELLE L. PARKER COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILMAN AL TAUBENBERGER MICHAEL A. DECKER, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting October 20, 2016
Good morning, everyone. We're going to get started today. We have a number of presentations. And we may not have him coming to dinner today, but we have him coming here. I'll just put that Phillies hat up there. We're going to get started, if members will take their seat. We have established a quorum. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Reverend Dr. James H. Buck, Jr. of Berean Baptist Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Curtis Jones. I would ask all guests, visitors, and members to please rise. (Councilmembers and guests rise.)
Let us pray. The heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament show forth his handiwork. This morning, oh God, we settle Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 spirits, wherein we rest behind these hallowed walls that we, your creation, abide as one. It is in the grace of this unity that we petition wisdom this morning beyond the rams of partisanship. But, oh God, we ask that you give us the temerity of an unapologetic will to do the business of the people, to establish justice, to generate peace, and to serve with dignity and integrity. We seek the welfare of the City, the peace and the prosperity to which we have been exiled, and we pray for it, for if it prospers, we prosper. We lend ourselves that we may be catalysts for the redeemed, wounded justice. Now unto that spirit that is ultimate and yet inconceivable, to that spirit that stretches beyond the eternal toss, to that spirit that embodies itself in flesh illuminated and penetrated, intellect between heaven and earth that Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 of God, I pray in Jesus' name. Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you so much, Pastor, for those inspiring words. We really appreciate it. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you very much. Thank you. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 13th, 2016, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 13th, 2016 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Journal of Thursday, October 13th, 2016 stand approved. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is requests for leaves of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests of leaves of absence today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair now recognizes Councilman O'Neill on behalf of the minority.
Thank you, Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. At this time, I would like to dispense with the regular order of business and I would like to thank everyone who has taken time out of their busy day to witness their government in action. We really appreciate you coming down. We hope that today is not only a knowledgeable one but a pleasurable one, so much so that you come back again. So thank you so much today. At this time -- drum roll -the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson, who will present a resolution recognizing Ryan Howard. Would Mr. Howard and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. Give a big hand to our guy. (Applause.) (Councilmembers and guest Stated Meeting October 20, 2016
And joining Councilman Johnson, we have Councilman Green, Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez, Councilman Squilla, Councilwoman Bass, Councilman Henon, Councilman Domb, Councilwoman Parker, Councilwoman Gym, Councilman Taubenberger.
There you go. Can we have all members up, please.
So I want to do this the right way. On being newly married, going on five years, I recognize that on the side of every strong man is a Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 going to ask for Mrs. Howard to please come on up and join her husband, please, and his daughter. (Applause.) (Guests approached podium.)
So today I am truly honored and privileged with my colleague Councilman Allan Domb to honor a gentleman who has definitely left a mark here in the City of Philadelphia. You know, this is a city that loves our sports teams and, most importantly, we love championships. And so in 2008, which was an historical year, we elected the first African American President by the name of Barack Obama. We also elected State Representative of the 186th legislative district, a young man by the name of Kenyatta Johnson. But we also became world champions with the Philadelphia Phillies but, most importantly, we all know we would not -that would not have been possible without Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 work, dedication, and close to 400 grand slam home runs by Mr. Ryan Howard. Let's give him a round of applause. (Applause.)
I'm going to ask my colleague Councilman Allan Domb to come on up here to say a few remarks as well.
Thank you, Councilman Johnson. And really to Ryan Howard, your wife, and family, this is a great honor. It's great to have sports figures who represent Philadelphia in the best light, and we couldn't have asked for someone better to represent Philadelphia. Besides being a great Philadelphia Phillies player, the tremendous pride you bring to the City of Philadelphia is great, and that to me is worth everything. So thank you very much on behalf of all of us. Thank you. Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 (Applause.)
You know, besides being an outstanding athlete and bringing a world championship here to the City of Philadelphia, he's also a great outstanding human being. In Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez's district she has the Ryan Howard baseball field, which he supported. In the 2nd Councilmanic District, we have the Ryan Howard Baseball Academy and baseball fields at the Marian Anderson Recreation Center as well as FDR Park. So this is a gentleman who came to the City of Philadelphia, rolled up his sleeves, and said, How can I give back to the community in which I am working in. And so we sincerely say thank you for thinking about those most in need and, most importantly, improving the quality of life of all of our young people in the neighborhoods here in the City of Philadelphia. And so -- Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 (Applause.)
The citation reads: Recognizing, congratulating, and honoring Ryan Howard for his 12 seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies; and commending his dedication to philanthropy throughout the City of Philadelphia.
Whereas, Ryan James Howard was born on November 19th, 1979 in St. Louis, Missouri and attended Lafayette High School and Missouri State University before being selected by the Philadelphia Phillies (the "Phillies") in the 5th round of the 2001 Major League Baseball draft; and
Whereas, Ryan Howard made his MLB debut on September 1st, 2004 and hit his first Major League home run 10 days later on September 11th, a sight that would become familiar to Phillies fans and opposing pitchers over the course of Ryan's impressive career; and Stated Meeting October 20, 2016
Whereas, Ryan is the last player remaining from the Phillies' 2008 World Championship team and played a pivotal role in that victorious post-season run, the team's first championship since 1980 and the City of Philadelphia's first since 1983. Over the course of that season, Ryan led the league in home runs with 48 and swatted more during the 2008 World Series, helping to lift the Phillies over the Tampa Bay Rays games to 1; and
Council President Clarke and I are extremely grateful to the Ryan Howard Foundation, because they really set the stage for what has been a major renovation of Hunting Park and the staple being used now in the City for what open space and top-level sports facilities should be. So we're forever thankful, and going to make sure that that Ryan Howard field remains a valuable resource in Hunting Park. Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 whereas, in addition to the team's success, Ryan has also earned several individual honors over the course of his outstanding career. In 2005, Ryan won the National League Rookie of the Year and the National League's Most Valuable Player Award in 2006. Additionally, Ryan is a three-time National League All-Star and has won the Silver Slugger Award, the Hank Aaron Award and the National League Championship Series Most Valuable Player Award in 2009; and
Whereas, known for his power, Ryan is a member of the 50 home run club, a two-time National League home run champion, and became the fastest player in MLB history to reach both the 100 and 200 home run milestones, passing these marks in 2007 and 2009, respectively; and
Whereas, not surprisingly, Ryan holds the franchise record for home runs by a Phillies batter Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 with a total of 58 home runs in the 2006 season, surpassing Mike Schmidt's record of 48 home runs set during the 1980 season. (Applause.)
Ryan will finish his career with the Phillies at number 67 on the list of Major League all-time home run leaders with a total of 382 home runs; and (Applause.)
Whereas, in addition to all of Ryan's success on the field, Ryan was also one of the team's most visible volunteers in the community. His dedication to his adoptive City of Philadelphia has been felt through several charities including Ryan Howard's Celebrity Servers, his work with the Police Athletic League, The Ryan Howard Family Foundation and The Ryan Howard Big Piece Foundation, which is dedicated to improving the lives of children by promoting academic and athletic Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Reading Challenge, created by The Ryan Howard Big Piece Foundation, is a K to 3 literacy-based program that encourages reading among students from across Philadelphia; and
Whereas, most recently, this past summer, Ryan opened a new training center, The Ryan Howard Training Center. Comprised of 7,500 square feet and four retractable batting cages, the facility will provide over 8,000 Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities -(Applause.)
-participants access to fitness training and educational instruction; and
Whereas, throughout his 12-year career with the Philadelphia Phillies, Ryan Howard has earned the gratitude and admiration of our great City through his remarkable dedication to philanthropy and public Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 service, and through his heroic 2008 World Series Championship performance; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia, hereby recognizes, congratulates, and honors Ryan Howard for his 12 seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies; and commends his dedication to philanthropy throughout the City of Philadelphia. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Ryan Howard as evidence of the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body. Ryan, we also have an additional presentation that we would like to present to you as well. We reached out to our current Mayor, whose schedule, he's a little busy, but he wanted be here and also be supportive of our efforts in honoring you. It's the Liberty Bell on behalf of the Mayor here Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Philadelphia. (Applause.)
Now, again, Mrs. Howard, we want to thank you for letting Ryan come to the City of Philadelphia to play for the Phillies but, most importantly, being his strength, his wisdom, his backbone in this process. And so we just want to show you our appreciation as well.
And now we would ask Mr. Ryan "Big Piece" Howard to say a few words. (Applause.)
I don't even know how to respond to all that, first off. I just want to say thank you to everyone here. You know, my time here playing for the Phillies has been great. I want one thing to be known, that if I'm not here playing in a Phillies uniform, Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 I'm finished with my work in the City and around Philadelphia. So my presence will still be felt here in Philadelphia, because there's still a lot of work that needs to be done and I still plan on being part of it. (Applause.)
I mean, is there a rattle -- I'm still trying to figure this whole thing out. I mean, hearing all the different things, you know, over the course of my career that have taken place off the field brings great pride to me, because for me that's what it's always been about. It's always been about giving back. It's always been about helping to give children and people opportunities to succeed. And I've been blessed to be able to be in this situation that I'm in, being able to play baseball, but I use that as a platform, a platform to try to give back, a platform to try to teach. You know, you're a role Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 to be or not, so the way I look at it is, I might as well try to be the best role model that I can be for my kids, for -(Applause.)
For the kids and not only kids but parents and everybody in the community to where, you know, we all have to work together. And I want to thank all the Council men and women that were able to help with the Urban Youth Academy, Hunting Park, all of the different things, PAL, Police Athletic League. And I just want to say it's been my pleasure, and, like I said, I'm not finished. I may not be in a Phillies uniform next year, but my presence will definitely be felt around the community here. So I just want to thank you for recognizing me and my family, and it means so much. Thank you. (Applause.)
Can we give him like a real big round of applause like. (Standing ovation.) (Council at ease.)
Okay. We got to go back to work. Thank you. Thank you very much. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, who will present a resolution commemorating October 17th, 2016 as Juror Appreciation Week. Would President Judge Woods-Skipper and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And joining the Councilwoman, we have Councilman Greenlee and Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. Historically we have gone Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 --
Councilwoman, hold on a second. Could we hold it down, please. Thank you. Go ahead, Councilwoman.
Thank you, Mr. President. Historically we have gone over to the Juanita Kidd Stout's Criminal Justice Center to present this resolution to citizens who show up and do exercise their civic duty during Jury Appreciation Week. This morning we're pleased to have citizens, professionals, jurists from the judicial side of government who are joining us here this morning, and we want to simply say thank you to them in a public way for the important work they do every day with those that they have to sit before. So this morning we are commemorating the week of October 17th, 2016 as Juror Appreciation Week in the Stated Meeting October 20, 2016
Whereas, the right to a trial by jury is one of the core values of American citizenship; and Whereas, the obligation and privilege to serve as a juror are as fundamental to our democracy as the right to vote; and Whereas, our courts depend upon citizens to serve as jurors; and
Whereas, service by citizens as jurors is indispensable to the justice system; and More citizens should be encouraged to respond when summoned for jury service;
Whereas, a continuing and imperative goal for the courts, the bar, and civic associations is to ensure that jury selection and jury service are fair, effective, and not unduly burdensome to our community; and Whereas, the courts, the bar, Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 associations, and individual citizens should have greater appreciation for the jury system and for the thousands of citizens who annually give of their time and talents to serve on juries; and
Whereas, the goals of the Juror Appreciation Week are applauding the efforts of jurors who fulfill the most important civic duty; educating the public about jury duty and the importance of jury service; ensuring that the responsibility of jury service is shared fairly among citizens and that a fair cross section of the community is called for jury service; ensuring that all jurors are treated with respect and that their service is not unduly burdensome; providing jurors with tools that will assist their decision-making; and continuing to improve the jury system in the City of Philadelphia by encouraging productive dialogue between jurors and the court; now, therefore, be it Stated Meeting October 20, 2016
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that this City Council does hereby commemorate October 17th, 2016 as Juror Appreciation Week in the City of Philadelphia and that the undersigned support the celebration of this week which shall include various activities, in furtherance of the aforementioned goals. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to our President Judge Sheila Woods-Skipper and her colleagues as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Let's salute Philadelphia's jurists and President Judge Sheila Woods-Skipper. (Applause.)
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Judge Woods-Skipper for remarks. JUDGE WOODS-SKIPPER: Thank Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 you, President Clarke. To Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown and all other Councilmembers who have submitted this resolution and to those others present, thank you for recognizing the importance of jury service and acknowledging Jury Appreciation Week here in the First Judicial District. I am joined today by my colleagues Judge Barbara McDermott who chairs our Board of Judges' Jury Committee, by Judge DeFino-Nastasi, by Judge Ros Robinson, and by our Jury Commissioner Dan Rendine, and our Court Administrator Joe Evers, all as an indication of the importance that we put upon this service. This Jury Appreciation Week gives us the opportunity to recognize the importance of jury service and the thousands of conscientious private citizens who consistently show up for jury duty and participate in this vitally Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 of our justice system. We want those who serve as jurors to recognize that their time is valued and the personal sacrifice that they make to serve is an unheralded service that we don't often recognize and we should do so more often. It is one of the keystones of our American democracy, and jury service truly is a right. It gives us the important opportunity to, with our constitutional mandate, to allow people from all walks of life -- that includes every economic background, every neighborhood, all geographies, every educational level -- to come together regardless of race, color, creed or religion and to ensure that our system of justice works for everyone, that everyone has access to justice and there is equality in our system. It's an opportunity for citizens to have their voices heard. And we thank them for the contributions to Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 jurors who serve. They deserve our respect and gratitude. Throughout this week, the court is seeking to showcase the importance of jury service as a shared American position and a vital part of our democracy. The Constitution guarantees this individual right, and the citizens who answer this call to serve is the only way that makes our system churn. Because as judges, we cannot do our jobs if we don't have jurors who are available to do theirs. The citizens of Philadelphia, who constitutes your constituents, we encourage them to appear for jury service, and we seek to educate them more about the importance of that service as we move forward. So spread the word, and I challenge you as Councilpeople to spread it to your constituents so that they show up when they are summoned to appear for jury service. And I thank all jurors who serve here in the First Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 again for this honor, and we are certainly happy to be here this morning. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you very much. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez, who will present a resolution recognizing McDonald's USA, LLC. Would Jorge Salvat and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
And joining Councilwoman Sanchez, we have Councilman Green and Councilman Jones.
I'll take this time to remind folks that after Council, our independent McDonald's Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 food in the Caucus Room. There will be no french fries, but there will be healthy food. Thanks to our menu labeling sponsor, Blondell Reynolds Brown, many of the industry has moved to healthy foods, and we are going to be hosted by McDonald's with some of their healthy foods. The first independent McDonald's operator that I met was Craig Welburn. I don't know if people remember Craig. And I remember Craig because Craig not only owned the McDonald's on 2nd and Lehigh, he was an incredible valuable community representative, and he embraced the bodheal (ph) in the Latino community and participated in so many events. I always thought he was Latino. But in the 7th Councilmanic District -and I hope this is the experience for the rest of my colleagues -- the McDonald's operators are real partners. So whether it's Ken on Frankford Avenue who is a lead partner in our Frankford corridor Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 redevelopment, also a member of our business association, to Frank Franco, who joins us today, at 2nd and Allegheny, they really look at themselves as strategic partners. So I want to congratulate McDonald's for providing minority independent franchise opportunities in the community. And I know my Council colleague Councilwoman Parker is always talking about who owns these businesses, do they look like us. In the 7th, they do. But I'm very proud to be able to recognize on some of their educational initiatives, we are all working hard to figure out how we incentivize corporate America to do right by its workers, and today we're going to recognize McDonald's, because they figured out that investing in their workers is good for their bottom line, and I think we need to highlight that when they do good work. And so with that, recognizing Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 USA, LLC and its 46 independent Owners and Operators in the City of Philadelphia for their continued dedication to the communities they serve, the people they employ, and the charitable services they undertake, and the "Archways to Opportunity" program which provides free English as a second language classes, a pathway to an accredited High School Diploma and tuition for College. McDonald's restaurants are in 120 countries, with 36,000 restaurants worldwide, serving approximately 69 million people daily and employing 1.7 million people; McDonald's and its independent Operators have provided and continue to provide resources and charitable contributions to the communities in which they serve and to the people that they respectively employ; Whereas, on October 15th, 1974, with the support of the McDonald's Owners Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Operators, the world's first Ronald McDonald House was founded in Philadelphia, in the 7th Council District, and has since grown to a network of more than 359 Houses in 42 countries and regions; and
I would like to also salute my fellow church member from Canaan Baptist Church, Reverend John Dawkins, who is also a longtime owner/operator for a McDonald's franchise. Whereas, for over 40 years, with the support of McDonald's and its independent Owner/Operators, the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House has and continues to provide Philadelphians and families all over the world with a supportive place to stay while their children are in treatment; and Whereas, Philadelphia has two Ronald McDonald Houses, one located at 3925 Chestnut Street and the other at 100 East Erie Avenue; and Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Whereas, this year alone, McDonald's and its independent Owner/Operators in Philadelphia, as well as surrounding areas, have helped raise over 1.1 million dollars for the local Ronald McDonald Houses and Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philadelphia Region; and Whereas, in 2015, McDonald's launched the "Archways to Opportunity" program which gives employees who work at a company-owned or independently franchised restaurant the opportunity to improve English skills, earn a high school diploma, work toward a college degree and also helps these individuals develop an educational plan for success; and Whereas, "English under the Arches" is a program that teaches crew and managers the English language skills needed to communicate effectively with colleagues, customers, and in their daily lives; and Stated Meeting October 20, 2016
I have to say the first two deals I ever did as a young underwriter banker at PCDC were two McDonald's. They paid back their money, and they're still open. (Applause.)
Whereas, the High School completion program is a nationally accredited High School program available to restaurant crew and management who work at the company or own independent franchise restaurants to obtain a high school diploma at no cost; Whereas, the college access and completion program helps in many areas, including: tuition assistance for college courses at higher education institutions accredited by the U.S. Department of Education, and the McDonald's employee training curriculum which carries an American College Credit (ACE) college credit recommendation which can be transferred to various colleges; and Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Whereas, nationally over 819 restaurant employees who have worked at the company-owned or independent franchise restaurants were awarded tuition assistance for high school, 3,346 were awarded tuition for college, 872 graduated from English classes and 308 completed advising sessions; and Whereas, so far this year, Philadelphia's nearly 100 companies or independent franchise employees have or are taking advantage of the "Archways to Opportunity" program and that number is projected to triple by the end of 2016; and now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that we hereby recognize and honor McDonald's USA, LLC and its 46 independent Owners and Operators in the City of Philadelphia for their continued dedication to the communities they serve and the people that they employ, the charitable services that they undertake, and particularly the "Archways to Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Opportunity" program. Be it further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Steven Kerley, Vice President, General Manager and, of course, some of our well-known independent operators here in the City of Philadelphia. Thank you. (Applause.)
Good morning, City Council. My name is Jorge Salvat and I serve you as Vice President of Operations for McDonald's Corporation in the Philadelphia region. And so we're truly honored to be here today to speak on behalf of McDonald's and the close to 25,000 employees that we have here in the Philadelphia region. And so first to Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez, thank you for your introducing this resolution and to Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 for your ongoing partnership. We appreciate you for acknowledging our company for the work we are doing on behalf of our crew and our communities. We recognize the importance of working closely with our City officials to ensure our efforts are in line with what the community needs and to support the workforce in a meaningful way. At McDonald's, we know that the advancement of our people is a key to our shared success. Internally we identified a need to better develop our managers and crew to their fullest potential, and as a result, we launched the "Archways to Opportunity" program in 2015. This customizable platform provides resources at no cost for our employees in four different areas. First, to improve their English skills; then to earn a high school diploma, not a GED; work towards a college degree; and plan their education goals. So since the program's inception, Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 than 10,000 employees and awarded more than 9 million in tuition assistance. I'm especially excited to report that here in the Philadelphia region, we've awarded a total of $664,000 in tuition assistance dollars to over 600 employees. And while we're proud to support our employees with tuition assistance for college, we also believe that the real opportunity is to ensure all of our people have a college diploma or its equivalent. And so with that, we know at the essence is really starting with the high school diploma. We know that 40 million working adults are without a high school diploma in our country, 40 million. And so McDonald's Career Online High School gives the employees the flexibility they need to balance work and school. They also gain real-world career skills with adult-focused class content. Ultimately we also want our Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 in all that they do. Our English Under the Arches program helps improve English speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Whether they're speaking to customers or to our staff, we want their voices to be heard. And, finally, education advising can be critical to an individual's success, from making the right school choice to understanding necessary time commitments and time management skills. The state of academic advising in our country is in great disrepair. The advisor-to-student ratio in high school is one advisor for every 491 students, and about 20 percent of our high school students have no access whatsoever to an advisor. So we view this as an incredible benefit to our employees who may not have had such guidance in school, and advising is available to all employees and can be Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 for them 24/7. And while we certainly know that there's more work to be done, we're extremely proud of the work we're doing to empower and to develop our employees. It's no small feat, but we couldn't do it without the commitment of many of our local McDonald's owners/operators that are with us here today. And so with that, I'm pleased to be joined today by Marlene Weinberg to share more of our story. Marlene.
Thank you, Jorge. And I'd like to thank the Council for recognizing our work with this honor. I have been a McDonald's owner/operator for 20 years. I currently have two restaurants in Bucks County, but when I had eight restaurants, four of which were in Philadelphia. I serve on the Board of Directors of the Ronald McDonald House Charities in Philadelphia. I currently Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Chair for the Philadelphia House and I'm on the Board. I also am Co-Chair of Ronald McDonald Camp. You can see I'm very heavily invested. For those of you that are not familiar with the work of RMHC, we are a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation that finds, creates, and supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children. Through RMHC we are able to assist local charities with grants. We give out and award $130,000 a year in scholarships to our high school seniors, and we provide funding and support to the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile, which is operated by Saint Christopher's Foundation for Children. It is a mobile dental clinic, and as your dentist will tell you, if you have good healthy teeth, you'll have a good healthy body. The Ronald McDonald Houses are the cornerstone of our charity, and as Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 said, the very first one in the world is right here in Philadelphia. The mission of the Ronald McDonald House is to keep the families close to their children who are critically ill and are being served and taken care of at local hospitals. We are fortunate to have two houses in Philadelphia, one at Chestnut Street, which primarily serves CHOP, and one at Front and Erie, which serves Saint Christopher's Hospital and Shriners. In 2015, we served 1,388 individual families for 2,279 total family stays. However, we could not accommodate 6,000 requests because we were full. And so the Board of Directors of the House embarked on a $50 million capital campaign, and we're hoping that a city known for brotherly love and sisterly affection will help us keep families close. We are in the midst of this campaign. The House has 45 rooms. We will grow to 127. If you're in a Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 help, I brought all my literature and would be glad to speak with you at lunch. In closing, thank you for having us here today. We appreciate you giving us this important platform to share our information about our people and our community programs. We look forward to continuing to work together to make the arches shine brighter in Philadelphia. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. And for our last presentation, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Parker, who will present a resolution recognizing the Ducky Birts Foundation. Would Ducky Birts and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)
Yes. Thank you, Mr. President. Although there were only seven whereas clauses in the resolution to read, all members of Council have been honored and sponsored this resolution. So we're going to ask all members to please join us. Will all members of Council please join us. We look back through these ten years and we've seen each of your faces. (Councilmembers approached podium.)
Let me just start by saying for those who are familiar with the life's work of national and regional civil and human rights icons like the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, C. Delores Tucker, the late great Lion of Zion, Reverend Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Sullivan, late Congressman Bill Gray and his partnership with the late great Councilwoman Augusta Clark, you can't know any of those people and their presence here in the City of Philadelphia and have not seen Donald "Ducky" Birts and his infamous smile. He's been in every photo, a part of the history and the work but, more important -- and we know that his son David who is here who has picked up the mantle, his lovely wife, Linda, the Zion Baptist Church family, Masjidullah, Tommy Blackwell, senior aide to Congressman Bob Brady, and Jeff Brown of Brown ShopRite, who has been the chief long-term sponsor of the Foundation's Medallion Scholarship Banquet, they're here and a number of others. You know that one thing that is not often talked about is Ducky's work, and when I first met him, it was through the late Councilwoman Augusta Clark and her work with the United Negro College Fund and the raising of money to send Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 college. And Ducky Birts never had a problem asking somebody for a check to help buy some books and pay tuition to send a child who needed assistance to college. And so, Ducky, with that, we want to say thank you. We know you reached a milestone last week with the presentation of the 10th Annual Medallion Scholarship Banquet, but what people also don't know is that Ducky just celebrated his 80th birthday. 80. 80. (Applause.)
So with that in mind, the resolution in which we finally, Ducky, as the legislative body get an opportunity to say thank you for your work, and this is just our way to say thank you, and it reads as follows: Recognizing and congratulating The Ducky Birts Foundation on the occasion of its 10th Annual Medallion Scholarship Gala.
I just want Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 friend Donald "Ducky" Birts for all your work from Camden to Philadelphia, being the risk-taker that you are, and all that you do for the young people of our city and the region. And whereas, the Ducky Birts Foundation was founded by civic activist, community leader, and longtime special assistant to Congressman Robert Brady, Donald "Ducky" Birts in 2006; and
And whereas, my heart is filled because Ducky Birts is adored by so many, including me. Whereas, Ducky has created a legacy of caring for others and nurturing the growth of our community's most valuable, vulnerable resource - children. He understands that having an education is a means to social justice, equity, self-determination, and freedom;
Thank you for this honor. And whereas, since its founding, the foundation has provided Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 my alma mater, Cheyney University, and Lincoln University and educated 4th, 5th, and 6th graders on economic development and government operations on all levels; and
Whereas, the foundation has also developed its own food products, like Ducky's Eggs, and quality lunch meats, which are sold and sponsored by Brown's Super Stores, Inc. which operates ten ShopRite supermarkets in the Delaware Valley. The proceeds from these sales go to benefit the capital building fund; and
Whereas, on October 15th, 2016, the Ducky Birts Foundation held its 10th Annual Medallion Scholarship Gala. The theme of this year's gala was "Creating Bridges for a Better Community"; and
Love you, Ducky. Whereas, this year's Medallion Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Crawley, Honorable Larry Farnese, Jr., Meg Grant, Honorable Stephen Kinsey, Obra S. Kernodle, IV, Mellanie Lassiter, Carla Moss, Don Scott, Calvin Tucker, and Fred Wright. The Couples and Families Working Together "Making a Difference" honorees were Frank and Tina Green, Mayor Dana Redd and Novella Hinson Starks, Ryan Boyer, and Omar Sabir, and Reverend and Mrs. Joseph Williams, Jr.; now, therefore, be it
Thank you. My congratulations to Donald "Ducky" Birts, great person. And you may not know, but he also has his own hot dog brand, Ducky Dogs, at Jeff Brown ShopRite. I see them. They are good. Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that it hereby honors and recognizes The Ducky Birts Foundation on its 10th Annual Medallion Scholarship Gala. Further resolved, that an Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 resolution be presented to Ducky Birts as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Donald "Ducky" Birts for remarks.
Thank you, Mr. President. First, give honor to God. And without God, it's impossible. I had a stroke about a year ago, about a year ago, and my wife nursed me back to health. God knocked me down, but he didn't knock me out. Got my attention. Going to get all of our attention when you get past 50. And I try to do the right thing for our people. Last time I was here, Jannie Blackwell, 25 years ago, helping Cheyney, Jannie Blackwell, the Wade Wilson Scholarship Fund, because we know that Cheyney do not receive money from the Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 does Lincoln. We don't understand that, because when Bill Gray took over the colleges, he asked me to come with him. I told Bill, I can't do that, because you got the big corporation with you, but Cheyney and Lincoln need the hot dogs and baked beans. You got the steaks, but these kids in Philadelphia need hot dogs and baked beans. From there they can get the doctorate and masters and get out of schools. We have to be able to take care of our next-door neighbor first and then go down the corner and give money to other schools. If you can give a dollar to the Negro College Fund, but give 75 cent and give a quarter to Cheyney and Lincoln, because they're right here in our district. They don't get money -the money they get from the state is very small compared to Penn State, Pittsburgh, and Temple. We got 13, 14 other small schools, but we got to get the money from Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Same problem the City got here. Get the money from Harrisburg. I understand that, Darrell, you need them in Harrisburg to help you here. The same thing -- it goes around, and our kids need help. I'm not going to talk too long, because I know we've been here a long day and out of competition, but my wife keep me strong. She take care of me. (Applause.)
And she was really a godsend. That's deep for people that go to church. She's a christian girl. She's a godsend. She's there for me. I see Brother Muhammad out there. Hey, Brother. And his wife is over there. I like her too. I like everybody. I don't have no hang-up. Ergo, when it comes to my kids, I don't play politics when it comes to my black kids. I'll take money from republicans, democrats, independents. Anybody that can help my black kids, I'll take the Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 no problem with that. We get hung up with all this stuff. Help our kids. You're talking about hanging on the corner. Well, get them some jobs and give some education. I'm teaching economics and government relations, which are part of political science and politics. That's what our kids got to learn from 4th, 5th, and 6th grade before they get out there, and our chance to give back. We got to grab them early, like the captains, grab them to the grave. We got to do that. And Jeff Brown, who has been here from the start -- where you at, Jeff? Come up here, Jeff. This man here been with me 15 years. People don't know we go back, way back, way back. People don't know that. And I'm there for him and he's there for me. That's a beautiful thing. I don't see color. I see human rights. As Reverend Sullivan taught me, zigzag for our people. That's what I see. And I don't have no problem Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 President at, that Darrell? That guy been down here for 50 years. Where's he at? My man up there, North Philly. I remember when he was running down there and I was coming, he was a kid. And it makes me feel good. You don't know how it makes me feel when I see Cherelle helping Marian as the interns, as interns. Let's see, what is she -state, up there, the state stuff up there. Now she saying that highway too much. Come on back home. Now she's in this Chamber. In this Chamber. That's the proof of our women missing our young girls to get them in this position to help our community. That's what it's all about. Our men, I got the young guys. I'm trying to coach them in the Sonny Hill league and the Baker league, and I've been pretty good in my day. I give back to the world, because God give me Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 still here. God bless you. (Applause.)
Thank you. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you very much. The next order of business is communications, and the Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Mr. Decker, please read those messages.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendations of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill Nos. 160769, 160773, and 160807. And I am pleased to advise you Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 19, 2016, I signed the remaining bills which were passed by Council at its session on October 6, 2016. And I am submitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to dispose of certain properties located in the Fifth Councilmanic District that will be transferred by the City to the Authority, by conveyance of such properties to the Philadelphia Land Bank in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to dispose of certain properties located in the Seventh Councilmanic District that will be transferred by the City to the Authority, by conveyance of such properties through the Philadelphia Land Bank in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code; Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to dispose of certain properties located in the Second Councilmanic District that will be transferred by the City to the Authority, by conveyance of such properties to the Philadelphia Land Bank in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code; and A resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of certain properties located in the Fifth Councilmanic District in accordance with Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. Do you have any additional communications?
Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Councilwoman Bass.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to be excused for the remaining Council session due to official business and recorded as aye on all bills and resolutions. And also before I go, I did want to acknowledge Mr. Josh Crew, who is joining us today from Penn Christian Academy. (Applause.)
Thank you, Councilwoman. Leave shall be granted. Thank you. The next order of business is introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I introduce Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 one privileged resolution co-sponsored by myself and Councilwoman Bass.
A non-privileged resolution calling upon Governor Wolf and the Pennsylvania State Legislature to ensure that individuals incarcerated and working in state prisons have access to clean water and proper health services.
Next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I offer two resolutions.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to dispose of certain properties located in the Fifth Councilmanic District that will be Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 transferred by the City to the Authority, by conveyance of such properties to the Philadelphia Land Bank.
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of certain properties located in the Fifth Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
Also on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Council President. Today I offer two bills and one privileged resolution.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Comly Street, Frankford Avenue, Benner Street, Brous Avenue, Devereaux Avenue, Battersby Street, Robbins Street, Hawthorne Street, Hellerman Street, Sackett Street, Knorr Street, Rowland Avenue, Tyson Avenue, Crispin Street, Saint Vincent Street, Leon Street, Sheffield Avenue, Erdrick Street, Cottman Avenue, Charles Street, Tyson Avenue, Erdrick Street, Longshore Avenue, Charles Street, Devereaux Avenue, and Hawthorne Street.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Charles Street, Unruh Avenue, Marsden Street, Levick Street, Cottage Street, Devereaux Avenue, Marsden Street, Benner Street, Ditman Street, Cheltenham Avenue, Harbison Avenue, Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Charles Street, Comly Street, Mulberry Street, Harbison Avenue, and Devereaux Avenue.
And a privileged resolution honoring St. Hubert Catholic High School for Girls on the Occasion of their 75th Anniversary.
This week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Good morning, Mr. President. I offer one resolution co-sponsored by Councilmembers Taubenberger, Green, Parker, and Blackwell. Thank you.
A non-privileged resolution urging the United States' Congressional Appropriations Committee to increase funding for LIHEAP in Fiscal Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Year 2017.
Today's Final Passage Calendar. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Mr. President, today I have two resolutions, one privileged, one non.
A privileged resolution proclaiming November 5, 2016 as "Crisis Intervention Network Reunion Day" in the City of Philadelphia, to commemorate the dedicated work of the Crisis Intervention Network to curb gang violence in neighborhoods throughout Philadelphia.
And a non-privileged resolution also naming the 5600 block of West Girard Avenue as "James Allen Way." Stated Meeting October 20, 2016
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Council President, I have two non-privileged resolutions.
A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to dispose of certain properties located in the Second Councilmanic District that will be transferred by the City to the Authority, by conveyance of such properties to the Philadelphia Land Bank.
And a non-privileged resolution calling on the Southeast Pennsylvania Transit Authority Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 and Transit Workers Union Local 234 to reach a long-term labor agreement in order to avert a strike and ensure continuity of transit service for the well-being of the citizens of Philadelphia.
And also on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill and one non-privileged resolution.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Charles Street, Harbison Avenue, and Cheltenham Avenue.
Referred to committee. Stated Meeting October 20, 2016
And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to dispose of certain properties located in the Seventh Councilmanic District that will be transferred by the City to the Authority, by conveyance of such properties to the Philadelphia Land Bank in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Green.
Good morning, Council President. I have one bill co-sponsored by Councilman Henon and one privileged resolution co-sponsored by Councilmembers Taubenberger and Squilla.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by providing for medical marijuana dispensaries and growing/processing facilities.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on the Disabled and Persons with Special Needs to hold hearings regarding services for people with disabilities and general compliance with and enforcement of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
And that will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. (Applause.)
Thank you, Mr. President. I have two resolutions, one privileged, one non, one co-sponsored by Councilmembers Taubenberger and Bass supported by all Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 members and the other co-sponsored by Councilmember Taubenberger.
A privileged resolution recognizing and congratulating the Philadelphia Tri-State Chapter of The Lupus Foundation of America on the 25th Anniversary of the Lupus Loop 5K Run and 2.5 Mile Walk to End Lupus Now.
And a non-privileged resolution urging the Congress of the United States to utilize its full authority to repair our broken and unsustainable prescription drug pricing system.
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Domb.
Thank you, Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Council President. No bills or resolutions day.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Gym.
Good morning, Council President. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Taubenberger.
Good morning, Council President and members of Council. No bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill and one non-privileged resolution.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Spring Garden Street, 6th Street, Callowhill Street, and 9th Street. To amend Section 14-519 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "/ECO, East Callowhill Overlay District," by modifying district boundaries, building height, and parking and loading, and making related changes.
And a non-privileged resolution approving the Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Greenwich Urban Renewal Area, identified by house number and street address as 2114 South Seventh Street.
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Oh for -- you have something for Councilwoman Bass?
Yes, I do. Thank you, Council President. On behalf of Councilwoman Cindy Bass, I offer one non-privileged and two privileged resolutions. Thank you.
An ordinance amending Section 14-503 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "/NCA, Neighborhood Commercial Area Overlay Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 District," by creating the Logan Triangle /NCA Overlay District.
And a privileged resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs to hold hearings on the feasibility of the Free Library of Philadelphia offering free module wi-fi hotspot access to its cardholders.
And a privileged resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Technology and Information Services to hold hearings on the feasibility of installing free and public Wi-Fi kiosks throughout the City.
That will also be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Oh. Stated Meeting October 20, 2016
Thank you, Council President. I offer two privileged and one non-privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution Recognizing and Honoring Leslie Grace for Being Named the 2016 Pennsylvania Art Education Association's Outstanding Elementary Art Educator.
And a privileged resolution Recognizing and Honoring the Philadelphia Writing Project on the Occasion of its 30th Anniversary.
And a non-privileged resolution urging the President of the United States and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 of the New 15-Day limit on Medicaid Coverage for addiction treatment in Residential Addiction Treatment Programs with more than 16 beds.
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. That concludes our introduction of bills and resolutions and we will now move to our reports from committee, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon for a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.
Thank you, Mr. Chair, Mr. President. The Committee of Public Works and Public Property reports four bills out with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
To the President Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Property and Public Works, to which was referred Bill No. 160617, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Director of Commerce to acquire approximately 20.8 acres of land known as Parcel G, bounded by Island and Bartram Avenues and I-95"; and Bill No. 160774, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to accept an assignment of an easement agreement pertaining to property along the Delaware River bounded by North Delaware Avenue, Penn Treaty Park, the Delaware River and Shackamaxon Street (extended to the Delaware River), commonly known as 1143 through 51 Delaware Avenue"; and Bill No. 160775, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to acquire fee simple title or a lessor interest such as an Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 easement, by purchase, condemnation or otherwise, in parcels of land along the Delaware River and the Delaware River Trail connecting to Penn Treaty Park, and authorizing an agreement between the City and the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the PRA to act as the City's condemnation agent"; and Bill No. 160843, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for use by the City of premises located at 456 North 5th Street," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 to permit first reading of this day Bill Nos. 160617, 160774, 160775, and 160843. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bills No. 160617, 160774, 160775, and 160843. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and these bills will be on our First Reading Calendar today. The next order of business is consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committee have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 session of Council. As there are no additional bills on the First Reading Calendar, the Chair recognizes Councilman Henon for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar today.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended as to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars: Bill Nos. 160613, 160616, 160672, 160673, 160683, 160684, 160685, 160711, 160714, 160717, 160719, 160721, 160722, 160723, 160727, 160769, 160770, 160771, 160773, 160807, 160841, and 160842. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the bills Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 read by Councilman Henon. All in favor say aye. (Aye.)
Council President, I'd like to make a clarification on the Consent Agenda. I may have read out Bill No. 160724 for the record.
All right. Thank you, Councilman. It's been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the bills just read by Councilman Henon. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries, and we Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 2ND READING will consider the Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Henon for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. In addition to the bills being considered on the Consent Agenda, the following resolutions and bills are being called up for the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Bill Nos. 160745, 160899, 160901, 160906, 160516. All other bills and resolutions are being held.
Thank you, Councilman. Before considering the resolutions and the bills, we will consider public comment. Public comment will go as follows: If you are interested in testifying on a bill or resolution that is on the Final Passage Calendar today, Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 I'd ask, if you have not already done so, sign up at the table to my left. When your name is called, you will go to the podium in the middle of the Council Chambers. There's a device on that podium. When that light on that device turns green, it will be your time to speak. When it turns yellow, you will have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks. When it turns red, we'd ask that you please adhere to the guidelines and conclude your remarks. You will be given three minutes to testify. Mr. Decker, please call the name of the first witness.
Joe Danihel, commenting on 160745 and 160899. (Witness approached podium.)
Okay. Again, over a year I've been testifying to what has been going on in this government that is illegal. Again, Council ignores an official decree from the people to de-fund and quit using the Sheriff's Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Department, the District Attorney's Office, City Controller's Office, and the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the taking, without payment or due process jury trial, of my home, 1038 West Wyoming Avenue. The Sheriff notified me after the deed transfer and not before. Is due process no longer required? 42 USC 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986, U.S. and PA Constitutions say otherwise. Last week Council honored Mrs. Abernathy, who stated we are not free until there is liberty and justice for all. She also acknowledged the diversity of the Councilmembers. What strikes me is the injustice that can be inflicted by all races and sexes upon all races and sexes. Council pats itself on the back, says it obeys and helps the people. Then how does Council allow deed transfer and seek to deny jury trial for the theft of 1038 West Wyoming Avenue? Same tyranny, different faces. Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 Noting the above laws and others unnamed, it is illegal to not provide instant remedy in jury trial. Council and its members dishonors the civil rights struggles and sacrifices. Council and its members dishonors patriots and veterans' sacrifices. If Ben Franklin himself could dig out of his grave, he would come down here and smite all of you for ruining this republic and violating the sacred rule of law. Obviously my comments aren't sacred enough that Council President remained in the building while they were being spoken.
Thank you for your testimony. Clerk, would you please read the next speaker, please.
Thomas Wrubel, commenting on 160613. (Witness approached podium.)
Thank you, members of City Council, Mr. Bobby Henon, and Stated Meeting October 20, 2016 everyone. I'm commenting on Bill No. 160613 that Mr. Henon has presented to you's, and I am affected directly by this bill. I live in the 15th District on the 2800 block of Hedley Street. But I would like to express my appreciation to the neighbors of our neighborhood pertaining to this bill. It's been a long time coming. And between the cooperation of the neighborhood, Mr. Henon's office, his office workers, Mr. Thomas Holroyd and Andrew Dick holding down the fort over there, right, Bobby?