COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, October 26, 2006 10:20 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN JUAN RAMOS COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Father James P. Olson, Permanent President of the Diaconate Department. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Ramos. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Everyone rises.)
Thank you for the opportunity to pray with you. The Lord be with you. AUDIENCE: And also with you.
And let us pray. We stand before you, Lord God, conscious of our sinfulness but aware that we gather in your name. We bring before you the needs and intentions of President, George W. Bush, of our Governor, Edward G. Rendell, and of our Mayor, John Street, and most especially this morning, we bring before you the needs and intentions of the members of our City Council. Come to us and remain with us and enlighten our hearts, oh, Lord. Give us light and strength to know your will, to make it our own and to live it in our lives. Guide us by your wisdom, support us by your power, for you are God, the source of all wisdom and all power. You desire justice for all people. Enable us to uphold the rights of others, and do not allow us to be misled by ignorance or influenced by fear or favor. Unite us to yourself in the bond of love and keep us faithful to all that is true. As we gather in your name, may we temper justice with love so that all our decisions may be pleasing to you and earn the reward promised to good and servants, and we ask all this in the name of the one God who lives forever and ever. Amen.
May almighty God bless you, the father and the son and the holy spirit. Amen.
The Chair thanks Father Olson for that very beautiful invocation. Thank you so much. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 19, 2006, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 19, 2006 stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that meeting of Thursday, October 19, 2006 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 19, 2006 is approved. The next order of business is requests for leave of absence, and, again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
Thank you. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, on behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in Chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our City. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo, who will present a resolution honoring the Philadelphia Second Alarmers. Will Mr. Greg Masi and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium, please. Councilman Rizzo is being I am also told that Councilmembers O'Neill and Kelly will also be joining the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you, Madam President. They look pretty wide awake since they had to work this morning. There was a fire, many of us heard this morning, out in Brewerytown, 33rd Street, and they're all here and we're today going to recognize, honor and celebrate the Philadelphia Second Alarmers for their unwavering loyalty to our City's police and firefighters in their time of need by providing nourishment, medical aid in every emergency, as they did again this morning. Whereas, the Philadelphia Second Alarmers have aided police and firefighters since 1921 during multiple alarm fires and other disasters by refreshments, food, water, et cetera. Whereas, the Philadelphia Second Alarmers have expanded their services by becoming emergency medical technicians or paramedics, and all are certified in CPR.
Whereas, over the years, the Philadelphia Second Alarmers have received several proclamations recognizing their diligence and their services to their community; and Whereas, the Philadelphia Second Alarmers have impressive units at their disposal to aid in their service to the City's firemen and police officers; and Whereas, such impressive units include the Squad 47A, Squad 72A, SA 10, SA 1, SA 2, STI and Rescue 1A Water Rescue; and
Whereas, the members of this munificent volunteer Masi; Assistant Chief George White; Captain Scott Hudson, also a member of the Apparatus Committee; Medical Captain Dave Park, also a member of the Apparatus and the Committees; Treasurer Alden Blyth and member of the By-Laws Committee; Recording Secretary Bob Ives; John Lewis; Horace Felton; Pete Specos; Bernie Turner; Joe Kilpatrick; Rich St. Marie; Dave Szafran; Ronald Trout; Jerry Woodruff; Ebone Harcum; Robert Cohen; Nathan Hodson; Ken Hough and Dan Vaughan. Whereas, with 85 years of excellent experience, the Philadelphia Second Alarmers continuously provide the City of Philadelphia with their volunteer expertise in its time of need, for which we are extremely grateful. Now therefore
Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the City Council hereby recognize, honor and celebrate the their unwavering loyalty to our City's police and firefighters in their time of need by providing nourishment and medical aid at every emergency. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Philadelphia Second Alarmers further evidencing the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative body.
We'd like to again thank the Second Alarmers for the good work that they do, and with us today is Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers, who certainly appreciates all the good work, and we have Greg Masi, who has a couple hats. He's a Sergeant in the Philadelphia Police Department that is dedicated, and we have a group of people that we'll introduce today. We have Mike Nucci, the Deputy Managing Director Of Emergency Services in the Managing Director's Office. So I'd like to first and then we'll get to Chief Inspector James Tiano from the Philadelphia Police Department that also the Second Alarmers provide so much services to. So Commissioner Ayers. COMMISSIONER AYERS: Thank you, Councilman. Good morning. We really appreciate the opportunity to be here to support the Second Alarmers. One of the things you heard was how they support the police and the firefighters. One of the things that you don't get a chance to see is, when we come together at an emergency, whether it's a fire, hazardous material spill or any other event that might happen in the City, even the pleasurable events, the Second Alarmers are there. They support us all the time. They support us with communications, lighting, and many of the other public utilities that show up, they get a chance to get some of those refreshments, the been doing this for an awful long time. I often get the dates mixed up with my mother's birthday, 1923, but they've been there for us. They're a fantastic group of men and women. They're there for us all of the time. Without them, we would have to create another body that would be able to support the firefighters, police officers so that we could stay healthy and continue to do the good job. I want to congratulate Chief Masi and the Second Alarmers for the great work that they do, and we really appreciate you. God bless you all. Thank you.
Next, a man that's been at a lot of emergencies where the Second Alarmers have responded, Chief Inspector James Tiano. TIANO: Thank you. I'm representing Commissioner Johnson, who is in Washington, and my 41 years on the Police Department. I have received the lime juice, the cup of coffee, the hot chocolate, the doughnuts, and believe me, when you're in a remote area and it's late at night and it's cold and it's windy, they're guardian angels to us, and I personally and the members of the Philadelphia Police Department want to thank you so much for all you do. Thank you. God bless you. (Applause.)
Next, a gentleman that we all know is Michael Nucci. He's the Deputy Managing Director of Emergency Services. Mike.
Thank you, Councilman Rizzo. The only thing I have to add to what Inspector Tiano and Commissioner Ayers said is that these are not just stuff when it's cold and liquid stuff when it's hot out. They do it under some of the worst conditions you can imagine, in the middle of the night, which is usually when they have multiple-alarm fires. In fact, I've known most of these folks for a number of years now. It's the first time I've seen a lot of them in daylight, and I don't know -- I think I prefer dark. But I've known George White and Greg Masi for a long time. They are -and all the Second Alarmers. They're the best people you ever want to deal with. Their hearts are in the right place and they do a fantastic job for police and fire and all City departments. I want to thank them.
Thanks, Mike Nucci. And, finally, the gentleman wears two hats, he's a Police Sergeant and now I'd like to introduce Chief Greg Masi of the Second Alarmers. (Applause.)
Good morning, Madam President. Good morning, Councilmembers. First of all, I'd like to express our sincere gratitude from our association for presenting this honor to us today. As Councilman Rizzo and Commissioner Ayers and Mike Nucci has mentioned and Chief Tiano, we're really a group of volunteers, and when you think about volunteerism today, it's difficult to have people volunteer their time, and we're kind of unique. When you volunteer for any kind of organization, when they tell you, We're going to be there Saturday at 10 o'clock, meet us there, that's pretty easy to get volunteers, sometimes it's not. Our organization, they kind of call us in the middle of the night. As mentioned, 3:30 this morning our good Fire Communications Center made sure we were notified at 3:30, and then some of our members are standing up here now. They are a little sleepy. They never went back to bed. They came right back to the station, stayed there and came right down here. So they are really a dedicated bunch of people. I've been blessed with a lot of good volunteers. Last night's presentation for the Police Department -I was there with the Councilman and my platoon that worked for me, Five Platoon -- they got an honor last night. I always seem like I get a lot of congratulations. Greg, good job, or Chief Masi, great job. I always say, I'm just a leaf on a tree. The tree itself is the organization, and I'm just there. They give me a position, a title, but they really do the job. They make me look good, and I can't thank them enough for what they've done for me as the Chief, but also for the organizations in the City, both police, fire, all of our City agencies. They've done a great job over the years since 1921. Thank you very much for this honor. (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilman Kenney, who will present a resolution recognizing John Bucci and his family. Will Mr. Bucci and those accompanying him please join the Councilman at the podium. Councilman Kenney is being joined by Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you, Madam President. This is a resolution recognizing John Bucci and his family, Pork, for winning the prestigious 2006 James Beard Foundation Midatlantic America's Classic Award. Let me tell you, in the world of culinary arts, this is a big, big deal. Whereas, John's Roast Pork was established in 1930 along the B&O Railroad at Snyder Avenue and Weccacoe Street; and Whereas, for decades, the shop has served hot sandwiches including John's roast pork from the family's secret recipe; and Whereas, in late March, John Bucci was notified by the James Beard Foundation that his sandwich shop had won the prestigious America's Classic Award; and Whereas, the James Beard Foundation is a national not-for-profit organization based in New York City dedicated to furthering the practice and arts in America. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: And I might add that John's will serve you whether you speak English or not. Whereas, each spring, more than 600 culinary professionals nominate and bestow awards to select restaurants, chefs and food journalists throughout the country; and Whereas, on May 8, 2006, John Bucci and his mother, Vonda, attended the James Beard Foundation Award ceremony at the New York Marriott Marquis where they met culinary celebrities and were presented with the Midatlantic America's Classic Award; and Whereas, the America's Classic Award is a national honor and one of the highest in the food industry; and Whereas, this is not the first time John's Roast Pork has been in the spotlight. In 2002, it was rated best cheesesteak in the City by Philadelphia Inquirer, and in April 2006, Food Critic Craig LaBan named the sandwiches as his farewell food of choice if he ever had to leave Philadelphia. And now therefore
Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that Council does hereby recognize John Bucci and his family and John's Roast Port for winning the prestigious 2006 James Beard Foundation Midatlantic America's Classic Award. I think it's time for George Perrier to move over and let the Bucci's -- give them a little room. Congratulations. (Applause.)
Thank you very much. I'd like to thank Councilman Kenney, Councilman DiCicco. First I want to say a couple words. "John Bucci" has been thrown lot, but John was my father, who died 15 years ago, and I just want to acknowledge him, because without him, nothing would have been possible. And my mom, we work side by side, and I know he's here in spirit, and I'd like to thank everybody. I'd like to thank Ben here, who is filming for Syracuse University. They're doing a little piece on Philadelphia, and I think that's real nice. And here's my mom, Vonda, to say a couple words. Thank you very much.
What I wanted to tell you is, back in the '30s when my inlaws started it, it was a little wooden shack and they used to call it The Shack. And then my husband came to help them out, and he remained. And then I went to help him out, and I remained. And then my son came to help me, and he's there now. But it's unbelievable that we're here, because it only started out shack. And the four boys that did the cheesesteak testing put us on the map. We were the best kept secret. Then my regular customers weren't too happy about it because they had to get in line. And this is what we're up to now. I want to thank the City Council, everyone here, for having us here. It's a great honor. Thank you. (Applause.)
One last thing. I was born and raised on Rizzo's street, 2300 Rosewood. So I want to thank you, Councilman Rizzo. Okay? (Applause.)
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Brown, who will present a resolution honoring Bilal Abdul Qayyum. those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. And I believe Donna Reed Miller, Councilwoman, will be joining the presentation.
Thank you, Madam President. Today we celebrate and lift up a constituent that resides in the Councilmanic District of Councilwoman Donna Reed Miller -- Councilwoman Tasco. Forgive me. Correct the record. Resides in the district of Councilwoman Tasco, who has, in my view, squarely looked in the face of guns and violence, and demonstrated that most recently when he took his feet on the street and walked more than 100 miles to Harrisburg. And it's really not unusual for our special guest, because for the last three decades, he has been an enormous inspiration and role model for African-American boys. So this is my real pleasure to lift him up this morning. the United States Congress joins us in saluting this citizen and we have here with our presentation this morning a proclamation from the United States Congressman Chaka Fattah. So you should be aware of that as well, Special Guest. Our proclamation, Madam President, reads as follows: Honoring Mr. Bilal Abdul Qayyum on the occasion of his 60th birthday for his committed, long-time dedicated service to the City of Philadelphia, and I might add to the young people of our City. Whereas, Bilal Qayyum, an active participant in Philadelphia City government for close to four decades, has helped enrich the lives of citizens and has made a lasting contribution by assisting countless young African-American males while mentoring them to strive for excellence and success. Whereas, beginning his career 1979, Mr. Qayyum oversaw the Haddington Leadership Organization, Incorporated, a community-based multi-purpose organization in West Philadelphia, serving in the capacity of Director; and Whereas, continuing to have a profound effect on our City, he entered City government working as the Director of Community and Youth Employment Programs in the Office of Housing and Community Development, and after working in the Office of Housing, he furthered his experiences at the Philadelphia Citywide Development Corporation; and
Whereas, throughout his professional career, Mr. Qayyum has done extensive service through his appointments to community advisory committees and boards in the public and private sectors specializing in housing, youth job development, economic development and social programs; and Whereas, civically he is the President and Executive Director of the Father's Day Rally Committee, Inc., Co-Chair for Men United for a Better Philadelphia and a founding member of the African-American Chamber of Commerce, and his community involvement spanning the last 25 years is witnessed in his dedication and participation with Carroll Park Community Council, Philadelphia Council of Neighborhood Organizations, Youth Employment Coalition, and as a mainstay with West/Southwest Community Action Council, another group for which he shares responsibility since its inception; and Whereas, he has facilitated lectures to familiarize Philadelphians on various minority business issues, which ultimately led to Mr. Qayyum co-organizing the first Minority Enterprise Development Week celebration in the City; and Whereas, he recently helped Harrisburg on the most pressing issue facing our City, gun control, by walking over 100 miles with members from Men United for a Better Philadelphia, at the youthful age of 59; and
Whereas, currently Mr. Qayyum, proud husband to Tamara, father to two sons and three daughters, grandfather of eight grandchildren, is professionally still employed by the City in his role of Economic Development Administrator for the Department of Commerce, City of Philadelphia. Resolved by the City Council of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor and commend Mr. Bilal Abdul Qayyum on the occasion of his 60th birthday for his outstanding achievements, accomplishments, good-will over the years. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be Abdul Qayyum as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Introduced by Blondell Reynolds Brown and Councilwoman Donna Reed Miller and sponsored by all the members of the Philadelphia City Council. We appreciate your good and important work. (Applause.)
Madam President, Councilwoman Brown and Miller and Blackwell and Tasco and Kenney, Goode, Ramos, DiCicco, Clarke, O'Neill, Kelly, Rizzo, and I forgot somebody, but -
I recognized you first, Madam President. Krajewski. I'm sorry. It's a great honor that I receive this citation today. Today a on my walk to Harrisburg, my second day, and I was actually walking from Norristown to Pottstown, and as I did my walk, one of the things I realized is that how walking on the highway and through the country sides, I realized, reflecting on a lot of stuff and the purpose of the walk, which was billed as jobs, not guns, but I also realize how great the City of Philadelphia was as I was walking along the country side and realized the important level of the work we're doing in Philadelphia collectively to try to stop violence, but I also realized that as Philadelphia goes, so has the State goes. As I went to each city, Norristown, Pottstown, Lebanon, Wernersville, Reading, Hershey, Harrisburg, as I went to those cities, all those cities was looking for guidance when we interacted with people from the work we were doing in Philadelphia, and all those cities have offered us to come United chapters in their cities, which shows that, once again, as Philadelphia goes, so does the State. So I would just say that this morning once again I'm proud to get this citation, but we have a lot of work. We are probably one of the greatest cities in the country. We have a tendency as Philadelphians not to say that and not to support each other to say that to the country, when we're greater than Atlanta, New York, Boston, all those other cities they compare us with. We have the ability and the resources here to solve our problems. Every time there's been an issue in the City of Philadelphia, the citizens have organized and overcome those issues. So I want to believe very strongly in this City. The work I have done is my commitment to the City, and I would just like to say to the Council, you have a great responsibility to help You have a great responsibility to introduce legislation that can make life better so that we don't have two cities, those with and those without. So you have a burden that you have to carry to carry this City forward, and I know every one of you Council folks, and I know you have the will and the resources and the power to do that. I know you're considering legislation, Councilman Goode's legislation, for tax credits to help ex-offenders get jobs. I know you're considering Councilman O'Neill's legislation to get drug paraphernalia out of these stores where these kids are using it. So you can have a great role in turning this City around. You have to work collectively together with the citizens of the City of Philadelphia, and let's make Philadelphia the greatest city in this country. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority, the City of Philadelphia, for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the 44th and Aspen Urban Renewal Area; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the of a portion of the Belmont Urban Renewal Area; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Tioga Urban Renewal Area; and An ordinance authorizing the extension of the extended trial program authorized by Bill No. 051096 under which advance approval is given to the Philadelphia Facilities Management Corporation; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located at Ruth Street, Clearfield Street, Emerald Street and Orleans Street for further conveyance to the School District of Philadelphia.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. 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 in order to permit the immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution honoring Bobby Clarke, a Philadelphia sports icon, for his distinguished career as a player, general manager, senior vice-president and president of the Philadelphia Flyers.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce two resolutions on your behalf, two on mine and a fifth for which I ask for a suspension of the rules because it was not circulated.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
I'm sorry. Should we suspend the rules on the resolution that was not circulated first?
Yes, Madam President. I move that the rules be suspended so as to permit consideration of this resolution that was not circulated in time. (Duly seconded.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution calling for the City Council hearings before the joint Committees on Finance and Education to explore the reasons and remedies for the School District of Philadelphia's FY07 budget deficit and explore the impact the deficit could have on school students, teachers and programs.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
The ayes have it and the resolution will be referred to the Committees on Finance and Education.
And a resolution authorizing the Committee on Education to investigate and conduct hearings related to the reported crisis faced by the City of Philadelphia regarding the high dropout rate among public school students.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Committee of the Whole to conduct hearings related to the Consent Agreement and Release entered into by the City of Philadelphia and certain outdoor advertising sign companies.
The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
I'm sorry. This is being referred to the appropriate committee. Thank you. But I need a motion. All in favor? (Aye.)
It will be referred to the appropriate committee.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority, the City of Philadelphia, for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the 44th and Aspen Urban 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 say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Redevelopment Authority, the City of Philadelphia, for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Belmont 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 in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 12-3000 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Use of an Automated Red Light Enforcement System to Prevent Red Light Violations," by authorizing the installation of red light enforcement systems at the intersection of Welsh and Roosevelt Boulevard.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Thompson Street, Alresford Street, Salmon Street and Juniata Street.
This bill will also be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the extension of the extended trial program authorized by Bill No. 051096 under which advance approval is given to the Philadelphia Facilities Management Corporation.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution honoring Teenshop, Inc. and Founder Elleanor Jean Hendley.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have one bill and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sidewalk Sales," by prohibiting sidewalk sales on portions of Stokley Street and Hunting Park Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority, the City of Philadelphia, for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Tioga Urban Renewal Area.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer three resolutions, and I'd like to mention that one of the resolutions for Billy Dee Williams is co-sponsored by Councilwoman Tasco and Councilmembers Clarke and Kelly. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution honoring Reverend Dr. Alyn Waller, for his committed and dedicated service to Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church and to the City of Philadelphia, in his recent appointment by Mayor John Street as one of the five members of the City Ethics Board.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution honoring Ms. Delilah Winder on the occasion of the publication of her first book and her long-time promotion of culinary excellence in the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution welcoming Mr. Billy Dee Williams as a featured artist to the Philadelphia International Art Expo presented by the October Gallery from November 10th to the 12th.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution declaring December 4, 2006 as Alpha Phi Alpha Centennial Day in the City of Philadelphia on the occasion of its 100th anniversary of the fraternity.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed located at Ruth Street, Clearfield Street, Emerald Street and Orleans Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Madam President, I offer one bill and one resolution, for which I -
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 12-3000 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Use of an Automated Red Light Enforcement System to Prevent Red Light Violations."
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution recognizing Captain Christopher Ferguson, United States Navy, for his service, courage and heroism as a Navy pilot and NASA astronaut.
Madam President, I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have two bills and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 10-800 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Safety," by adding a new Section 10-834, entitled "Responsibility to Avoid Possession and Discharge of Firearms by Children."
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Section 14-1600 of The Philadelphia Code by adding a new section, entitled "Special Height Controls for Vine Street," all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Public Property to hold hearings regarding the feasibility and benefits of implementing a coordinated municipal advertising program in Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
Madam President, the resolution should actually be referred to committee for a hearing.
Yes. I was about to say it's going to be referred to the Committee on Public Property. Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution recognizing, honoring and celebrating St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Chestnut Hill, the Church of the Angels, for its invaluable contributions to the community of Chestnut Hill and the City of Philadelphia on the occasion of its 150th anniversary.
Madam President, I move for the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a report from the Committee on Rules.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, the Committee on Rules reports seven bills with a favorable consideration.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 060544, entitled "An ordinance approving the third amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Kingsessing Urban Renewal Area"; and 060582, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code by adding a definition and providing for day care in certain commercial districts"; and Bill No. 060585, entitled "An ordinance approving the second amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the West Fairhill/East Tioga/Hunting Park Urban Renewal Area"; and Bill No. 060621, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 57th Street, Market Street, 56th Street and Chestnut Street"; and Bill No. 060625, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Delaware River, Tacony Bridge, New State Road and Magee Avenue"; and 060631, an ordinance amending Chapter 14-400 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Commercial Entertainment District," by adding requirements for, among other things, transportation and parking management plans; and Bill No. 060635, entitled "An ordinance repealing Section 2 of the ordinance, Bill No. 050418, approved December 1, 2005, by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Christopher Columbus Boulevard, Canal Street and Poplar Street," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Madam President, I move that the rules of as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 060544, 060585, 060621. (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 Nos. 060544, 060585 and 060621. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. Bill Nos. 060582, 060625, 060631 and 060635 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for our next session of Council. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos for a report Labor and Civil Service.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Labor and Civil Service reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Labor and Civil Service, to which was referred Bill No. 060695, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 22-310 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Deferred Retirement Option Plan,' by defining the employees to whom an extraordinary extension for participants in the DROP program may apply, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Madam President, I move that the Rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No. 060695. (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 the bill just reported from Committee. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bill just read will 10/26/06 - STATED - 1ST READING be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The next order of business will be the consideration of the Calendar. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read the bills on the First Reading Calendar.
Bill No. 060544, an ordinance approving the third amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the Kingsessing Urban Renewal Area.
And Bill No. 060585, an ordinance approving the second amendment of the redevelopment proposal for the West Fairhill/East Tioga/Hunting Park Urban Renewal Area.
And Bill No. 060621, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING 57th Street, Market Street, 56th Street and Chestnut Street.
And Bill No. 060695, an ordinance amending Section 22-310 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Deferred Retirement Option Plan," by defining the employees to whom an extraordinary extension for participants in the DROP program may apply.
The Chair agrees. That completes our First Reading Calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up bills to be considered today on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Madam President. Today our Calendar begins on . We will hear Bill Nos. 051089, 060261 and 620. On , Bill Nos. 060627, 688, 690. On , Bill 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING Nos. 060691, 692, 693 and 696. On , Bill Nos. 060701, 638, 617, 629. On , Bill Nos. 060626, 632, 634, 694. And, finally, on , Bill Nos. 060702, 703, 730 and 630. All other bills are being held.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 051089.
An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application in an amount not to exceed $6 million to assist in the development of the Point Breeze Performing Arts Center.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060261.
An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application in an amount not to exceed $250,000 to assist in the relocation of the Family Practice and Counseling Network. 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill to be called for 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING consideration is Bill No. 060620.
An ordinance constituting the Eleventh Supplemental Ordinance to the Restated General Water and Wastewater Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1989.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 060627.
An ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code by adding Local 22 Fire Political Action Committee to the list of designated payees.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060688.
An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application in an amount not to exceed $2 million to assist in the development of Simeone Automotive Foundation Education Center.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060690.
An ordinance constituting the Tenth Supplemental Ordinance to the Restated General Water 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING and Wastewater Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1989.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060691.
An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application in an amount not exceed $1 million to assist in the development of Woodlands Arboretum and Botanical Gardens Revitalization Project.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman DiCicco. 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060692.
An ordinance authorizing and approving the execution and delivery of a Service Agreement between the City of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development relating to a comprehensive program to improve and enhance the City of Philadelphia's cultural and commercial corridors for the benefit of the residents of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING Madam President. Madam President, this is a very painful day for me because for many, many years, for eight years, I worked at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and year after year, I watch the Budget Officer come to City Council to plead for operating dollars to run that institution, that grand, fine institution, and I've watched over the years how we have struggled to fight to maintain operating dollars for that institution. Two years ago, we strongly advocated that the City give them $2 million. This bill, which is designed to give capital dollars to cultural fund organizations for capital improvements and also dollars for streetscaping and small business guarantees, is a fine way to reach out and give support to the institutions that traditionally have not been funded by the City, and I support the intent to do that, but I also know 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING that a lot of cultural institutions need that support and we have a responsibility to find a way to do so. I'm not sure that financing our future at this point to do that is the best way to go, when we do know that there are other ways, such as pay as you go. We have a $240 million fund balance. There's $6 million sitting in the -- I can't think of the fund. You know what I'm talking about. We talk about the $6 million all the time. But there are other ways that we can fund it. But we also have a need for our recreation centers, our fire centers, fire buildings, libraries and all the City structures to have those dollars that are needed to keep those structures going, and we haven't been able to do that because we're in a fight here over the capital budget for 2006 and 2007, and so we haven't done that yet. And we're at a standstill, because here we're pitting the City structures against the 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING community, and we shouldn't be in this position. Particularly we are responsible for the City-owned structures, to make sure that they're operating. During the course of the testimony, I talked about the fire station at Carpenter Lane and Germantown -- which is not in my district, it's in Councilwoman Miller's district, but I stop there often. I pass it -- to show me their floor, which is coming apart. They can't get it repaired. We don't have the dollars to repair that. And so we need to resolve our capital budget program before we tend to look at other ways of giving money to other institutions. During the testimony for this ordinance, Mr. Jannetti, our Finance Director, stated we had $170 million for these structures, but I corrected him that this total represents the budget's 2006 and 2007. 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING Under the capital program, the City plans to spend over the next six fiscal years just under $71 million a year. The City Planning Commission has testified that the City needs to spend on its public facilities $185 million annually. We need to stop and rethink our action and develop a pay-as-you-go plan. We could commit the $12 million that we're going to pay and have to pay $12 million in a year in debt service. That money could be better set aside to give the Art Museum $5 million a year, the Zoo whatever it needs. And I'm particularly concerned about what City structures will get, the money. During the course of the testimony, Ms. Naidoff said they were City-owned structures, but she couldn't name any, didn't give us a list, we don't know where the money is going, and they have outsiders telling them what facilities to be funded, when the District Councilmembers know in their 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING district what City structures should be funded. So I am very concerned about the process for distributing this money, because we don't know where it's going to go. So I think that if we adopt the pay-as-you-go plan by -- we have a $240 million fund balance. Certainly we could give the Art Museum $30 million. They need it. They deserve it.
Some of the other cultural funds need it. We can't even fund the cultural fund's operating program. We struggle and beg every year for a measly little million dollars so that the programs can operate. More cultural fund programs need operating dollars than the number of organizations that may have been touted as getting some of the capital dollars, which will be minuscule compared to the number of people who came in here and testified. Then you're going to pit them against each other. So you're pitting the City structures against the cultural 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING structures, and then you're going to have the cultural structures fighting over the small pit that's done rather than having a total program, a program where we could all buy into and know year after year how much would be available for these cultural funds, the City to support these structures. So that is why I'm very perturbed about it today, because I don't want the cultural community to think that I don't support their needs. I do. I think they deserve it, and the City has a responsibility to help find a way to do that. According to today's Philadelphia Inquirer, the Mayor and his allies, and I'm quoting, touted the borrowing as a key piece to the Mayor's legacy. I say that this Mayor has had seven years to develop a legacy. His legacy, whether he likes it or not, will be one of pitting one community against 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING the other. It is too late to try and create a false record. In the out years when the members of the City Council, those who will be here, wrestle with the City finances and try to answer their constituents as to why there are no funds for our structures, our rec centers, our libraries, our fire houses, the answer will be that we mortgaged our future so that John Street could have a legacy. And I will be voting no on this.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Madam President. I would just ask my colleague why she's being so kind to the Administration on this matter. Four years ago, we were sitting in a little courtroom upstairs because this room was damaged, and I remember 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING like it was yesterday that the Administration came in with a plan to sell the Central Library and then lease it back so that we could give the Central Library $30 million for its expansion. It had to be done. But you know, as I said, $60 million for $30 million worth of stated reason. And no matter how much anyone pleaded with the Administration, it wasn't just the idea of leasing the library after you've sold it, but there was $30 million in unidentified expenditures on a long-term borrowing that would just be wrong to do. Well, that didn't fly at that time. Four years ago, the first term of the Street Administration, both allies and enemies agreed that it was a bad idea, and it failed. But eventually the $30 million borrowing was done, which everyone had assured the support for, even though we had to tell a library at the time, Sorry, we're for you, but not in this context, not doing it this way. And the library 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING eventually saw the $30 million borrowing occur, passed City Council unanimously. In fact, I think only ten of that 30 million has been released because of conditions that were placed on the 30. So we're very careful when we actually did the $30 million borrowing. Now we have $150 million with virtually none of it identified. I don't know where we lost our way from $30 million not identified four years ago for the library and holding up what we all knew was a good, solid $30 million commitment to the library until we got it right and now we have unidentified 150 million. It's five times what the last unidentified money was. I mean, if we want to create a capital dollar slush fund for the Administration, we're doing it. I don't know why we want to do that, but we're doing it. I also don't know why we want to do it when our recreation centers are 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING falling apart and we can't agree on the last three years a capital budget for the rec centers, which used to be a routine matter around here. But we're doing it. It doesn't make it right. It just means it's going to be done today. I refuse to join in doing this. The Charter that was passed some 50-plus years ago had a provision in there that said two-thirds of Council is needed to strap the taxpayers with long-term debt. So it went beyond the nine votes needed for anything else. Somewhere along the way, authorities were created by the State and language was inserted which made it okay without a Charter amendment to borrow long term with only nine votes. The Charter says 12. Well, that's just general obligation bonds. Well, back then, that's what long-term debt was, general obligation bonds. There weren't any of these authorities and different mechanisms for getting around it. 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING And I would ask today the Committee of Seventy and PICA, who have gotten much more aggressive lately, and I congratulate both of them for doing it, to take that to court, because I believe that the Charter trumps everything else. And for years, capital borrowings have been pretty routine around here, but when you start not identifying expenditures and you start bringing in the bait and the Art Museum and other cultural organizations -- but primarily the Art Museum is the bait here -- and they're being used and they know it, but they can't help it, because they have a fiduciary duty as Board members and as an organization. If the Art Museum needed $30 million and it was a borrowing for that amount just like the library, it would be done. It would be unanimous. We wouldn't have stories written about it, just as most borrowing in the last 50-some years under the Charter have been done, whether they were by nine votes or 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING 12.
But this is a case where you see what happens when you cavalierly go outside the Charter requirement and you ignore the 12-vote requirement because, oh, we're going to have a Service Agreement with this agency. It's the same taxpayer. It's the same debt. The debt is out of control. It's getting worse. And we are not including the pension obligation bonds. Even when PICA comes in here, they're talking about capital debt, no matter how we borrowed it. Long-term debt through a bond issue, we borrowed one and a quarter billion dollars just a few years ago. That debt is at least $50 million a year that isn't included in any of the numbers that we've been given. It's real debt. It's real long-term obligation by our taxpayers. So what are we doing? We're going to help commercial corridors and 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING small and large cultural organizations. Well, I think that's great. They all need it. There's no question. When we have $187 million a year in our own infrastructure -- everybody needs repairs on their home, some people more than others. If you had serious repairs needed on your home -- and I would say we need serious repairs needed on our City's infrastructure -- and you said, Oh, you know what, Harry or Bob down the street, they've got problems, too. I think instead of fixing my house, I'm going to take my money and my family's money and I'm going to fix theirs. No question that Harry and Bob's house needs work, but your obligation to your family is our obligation to our taxpayers. It's to fix the City's problems with its infrastructure, and if we have money left over, then we'll help the private sector. Business corridors have been helped in this City for years by State 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING grants. If it's a valid project to improve that corridor, they've been helped, and they've been helped in just about every Council District. We're all familiar with it. But all of the sudden, the City, not with a lot of borrowing capacity but absolutely strapped and overburdened with debt, is taking on a private obligation that would normally be either the business corridors' own private obligation or some combination with the State. But now we're getting generous. Oh, forget it. Forget what usually happened. We're going to ignore police stations, fire stations, Fairmount Park, Recreation, libraries, because that's what we're doing. We're ignoring them because we think the commercial corridors are more important. Well, you know what that does? That puts $90 to $150 million of political money, it's just political money, in the second floor, and that's why I hope PICA, the Committee of Seventy and anybody else 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING that wants to join them, because I'll certainly join them, tries to stop it. This is wrong. These monies should be identified. They should be voted on separately if they can't be identified. And we're falling into the trap of, oh, can't be against the Art Museum. That's the way this whole thing is structured. Can't be against the Art Museum. Nobody is against the Art Museum. If Mr. Lenfest doesn't know by now that City Council has supported this Art Museum a lot more than this Administration in the last six budgets, I think they know it, but they're caught in a bind. But we don't have to get stuck in the same bind. And I just think it's a sad situation, because we could be doing real good things for the Art Museum, but we could also be doing real good things for City buildings, City infrastructure we're not going to get another chance to do, because this Administration is committed to 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING underfunding the rec centers that we as Councilmembers are responsible for, but also underfunding the buildings that the Administration is responsible for so they can create $150 million of money to be identified later, to be identified later. Except for library borrowing, I don't think it's ever happened in the City's history.
And if somebody has some questions about whether 12 votes should be needed, I think this is the best example they'll ever have. And, yeah, there will probably be 12 votes today, but you know what? A few of them will be voting because they don't want to be against the Art Museum, and I can't blame them. That's a hell of a spot to be in, and it's unfair. But Councilwoman Tasco mentioned community against community. This kind of pits Councilmembers against what they really think is right. Because who wants to be against the Art Museum and the cultural community when everybody 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING supports them? But that's the structure here. That's the strategy. And, okay, it's working, but this is a Christmas tree that people are going to regret buying, and I hope there's some way of stopping it. If we can't, I just want to go on record that I think it's one of the worst votes I've ever been asked to make, and I'm not going to make it. Thank you. )
Thank you, Madam President. I join the many members on this legislative body who care very, very much about the arts and what it does for our City, and I recognize that when it comes to matters of this scale, even in our advocacy we have to be thoughtful and rational in approaching the public policy question, which is should we fund this 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING bond issuance. The fact is that just as we have used the bond issuance for other mechanisms here in City Council, we should also consider using that mechanism for this particular community, for this one reason: This bond issuance is an investment into the capital needs of many of our arts and cultural institutions. It is a one-time injection or infusion of dollars for the arts and cultural institutions in our City. The fact is that a $1 investment in arts and culture gives us a domino effect of $3 spent. So for those reasons, I will be in support of this one-time unprecedented opportunity that seeks to help our arts and culture institutions in a way that has never been done before. Thank you, Madam President.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke. 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I just want some clarity on my vote. My vote will be based on what I believe to be a carefully thought-out strategy related to commercial corridors. I'm the District Councilperson that actually represents the Art Museum and have been talking to members of the Art Museum for years, both as a staff person, as a Councilperson and hearing the need for that facility. But I can sit here today and tell you honestly if this bond initiative did not include, quote/unquote, the neighborhoods in the commercial corridors, I would not be supportive of this initiative, as much as I support the Art Museum, because at the end of the day, I happen to represent -- I can only speak for myself, but I'm sure that there's a lot of similarities in other Council Districts -- some of the oldest commercial corridors in the City of 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING Philadelphia, who in fact need some infusion of cash to support the infrastructure. I have some commercial corridors in my district where you can't walk down the sidewalk because the curbs and sidewalks are broken and dangerous. And, unfortunately, I wish we could actually be talking about helping some of these residential areas that have similar problems. But at the end of the day, I think this is a reasonable approach to instilling some cash, instilling some resources to our neighborhood commercial corridors, because I do believe, and history has shown, that small businesses are the life blood of not only these neighborhoods, of these cities. So I'm going to cast my vote in support of this primarily because of that and secondarily because of some of the arts and cultural institutions. Additionally, I think the fact that we were able to extract in our 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING hearing a serious commitment for a very, very aggressive approach to including minority and female-owned businesses as it relates to any access to this money, be it City-sponsored projects or any privately owned-sponsored projects, where we got a commitment from the Administration to use 50 percent as a goal for employment opportunities and I think upwards of 40 percent for contracts. So I look at this as a golden opportunity, not only to infuse cash and resources into our communities, but also give a golden opportunity to a lot of people who are currently out of work or working at jobs that aren't paying a reasonable livable wage. So I would like to not only focus on getting this initiative in place, but I want to make sure that the commitments that were made to us to make sure that all Philadelphians have an opportunity to take advantage of this 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING fund be in place. So today I will cast my vote, not to build anyone's legacy, not to provide a fund, and I don't like to use the term "slush," but not to provide a fund that is not adequately monitored by this body and members of this government to ensure that all expenditures are done appropriately. So I will be casting my vote aye.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I, too, will be voting yes on this bill and not just specifically because of the money that would be going to the Art Museum, although I think that is a wonderful idea and I think it's a long-time coming. When these various departments, the Art Museum included, come to Council and talk about their 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING capital needs, every one of them, almost to an institution, has always pointed out that the economic benefits to the City of Philadelphia far outweigh the investment. The Art Museum has testified over the years that for every City dollar that we invest into that institution, we get a $4 return on our investment. So for me, this is not, to use the word of my colleague, a slush fund. For me, this is another economic tool that the City has at its disposal. I agree that there's a debt service that needs to be looked at and will have to be addressed in years going forward, but I personally believe that the investment will certainly pay its way and pay itself off in the long run. Politics of the second floor, the Mayor has a year and a half left. I don't think he will realize his legacy, if that's what this is all about, because by the time all this stuff begins, it will probably be a year and a half before 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING anyone sees any of the improvements that we're hoping to realize from this. It's interesting, when I hear that the politics of the second floor is just the way in which to direct money for political purposes into certain sections of the City, we're the same folks who haven't been able to pass the capital budget for two, three years. Some of that money would have gone to rec centers and fire houses and police stations and the like. I think we have to be held responsible for that. We have to take some accountability for that, since we haven't been able to pass a capital budget. The return on the investment for me is well worth this borrowing. I also would like to point out when we talk about the commercial corridors, last I looked, the majority of folks who run those shops and those stores in the neighborhoods are Philadelphians. They're taxpayers, too. When we talk about State 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING grants, I'm familiar with that as a District Councilperson. It's nice to get State grants. It's somewhat of a help, but when you look at it in the scheme of things, that money that they realize in those grants is insignificant. It's literally a drop in the bucket. Council President, I know that you're familiar with some of the corridors in South Philadelphia, as an example. Penrose Avenue in your district, 9th Street in my district, South 7th Street. I wish 20 years ago someone had thought of this idea to invest large infusions of dollars. We may have been able to save those corridors. Because what happens when we don't save the business community, you lose the residential community. It goes hand in hand. If you don't save the residential community, you will lose the retail community. We need to make this, I think, a priority. It is not because my 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING relationship with the Mayor, as everyone understands, has been on a good note as of late. I'm not here to make points with the Mayor. I'm here because I really and truly look at this as an economic tool to move this City forward, to make our neighborhoods a better place for all Philadelphians and invest their tax dollars to the best of our ability, and we will deal with the fire house situation. And I thank my colleagues for standing with me a couple of years ago when the Administration was looking to close down some of those fire stations. None of those stations have been closed. I appreciate the support, and I think it's just the beginning, and we need to go forward from this day forward to figure it all out. We will have a say in the process as to where this money goes.
Particularly for District Councilpeople, not leaving my at-large colleagues out of the process, but we know what goes on in 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING those neighborhoods and we'll share that information with you and seek your support. So I will be voting yes on this bill today. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
One final word, Madam President. I just want to talk about these capital budgets that we haven't passed. That has to also do with the politics of the second floor. In the past, the District Councilmembers were given a certain amount of money that we knew that we had in our budget that we could appropriate to a rec center to fix it up, to do something. Then all of the sudden, we were told our dollars were cut and the City was going to determine how they spent the money. Because prior to that, 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING there was enough money that the City had money to use on these structures and then the other pot that was given to the Councilmembers was left to the Councilmembers. Then, of course, the capital program began to shrink and the City could see they didn't have enough money for the things they thought they might want to do on these rec centers and these fire stations, and then they wanted to take the money that we had appropriated to the District Councilpeople for the capital programs we wanted in our district. So that's where the discussion is and that's where the fight is, because they want to take our money because they don't have enough money because they can't get enough money to fix the structures that they need. The final thing I want to say is, this is like a predatory loan. You got $240 million in the bank. That's the money you could use to fix up the house 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING that Brian was talking about. Along comes a subprime lender, say, Oh, let me give you $150 million and you only got to pay $12 million a year. But you don't look at the life of the loan of $300 million, and you could have taken some of that money of your $240 million which we have and put it aside for some of the same commercial corridors that we've been begging this Administration to fund and support through the years. He's been talking about this $150 million for the last eight years. Here we are one year out trying to struggle and be forced to vote on something and, again, like Brian said, use the Art Museum as the carrot, as the stick as to say, Look, if you don't do this, you're against the Art Museum. But we are not against the Art Museum. We're not against the cultural funds. We are against this process because it doesn't make sense. We have the money in the budget in the City we could use for the same stuff. So it's 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING not like, oh, glory God, we got this money. Well, we had the money, we have the money, and we can use the money for the same projects that's on the table in this ordinance. So we're going to buy a predatory loan, ya'll. In about ten years, you'll figure it out. Thank you. (Applause.)
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I've been pleading and encouraging this Administration over the last few years to increase the support for cultural funds in the City of Philadelphia. I think it's very, very important to do so. I've been around this City and I've visited many, many of these institutions. 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING They've absolutely been underfunded for many, many years. I'm also a Trustee of the Art Museum and I know the desperate need for repairs to their infrastructure. There's many reasons, of course, that I think that I have questions about this bill, but I also know that this is an opportunity for me to put my vote where it should be at this point. I've been preaching for more and more support for these cultural institutions, and this is the opportunity that I have to do so. I know that Councilwoman Brown mentioned that this is an investment, and I think it's a good investment, because I think that we receive probably three to four times the revenue back by these institutions. Every dollar that we spend, we get three to four back. I know that Councilman O'Neill mentioned that this is just a carrot, but this is a carrot that I have to look at, 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING because I know absolutely the desperate need for these institutions. And I think that when you look at it, people don't come into the City just to see the Liberty Bell. They come in for many, many different reasons, and many of these reasons are the cultural institutions that we have in the City. And I think it's so important that we back and we financially support them, and this is the opportunity that I find today. One of the things that I mentioned before, that all of our sports teams, whether it be the Eagles, the Flyers, the Phillies or the 76ers, they bring in about a little over four million people per year. Our cultural institutions bring in at least 11 or 11.4 million people a year, and that's very, very important, to keep this up. And I think by supporting them, this is one of the things that makes Philadelphia great, and I want to continue to see it do so. So that's why I'm supporting 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING this bill today. I think it's very, very important. I'm asking my colleagues to do the same. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you. Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I will be voting yes on this bill because certainly this type of funding will help benefit the arts and culture community. It will certainly benefit neighborhood commercial corridors in my district. Those corridors are always asking, seeking. I'm a very strong supporter of neighborhood commercial corridors because these are, as Councilman Darrell Clarke said earlier, they're the life blood of a neighborhood, providing many, many young people with their first opportunity for 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING employment. I am on the Board of the Zoo and I certainly know the funding that the Zoo needs, the additional funding. So I just want to very quickly say that I will be supporting this bill and voting yes. Thank you.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Yes, Madam President. PICA is our oversight board, and while we're not bound by their recommendations certainly, they're not just any other oversight board. They're the board that kept us --
Excuse me. Councilman, do you mind pulling the microphone.
They're the board that kept us floating and continues to have the responsibility to make sure we don't go back to where we 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING were. This is not just bad public policy. I don't think PICA gets involved with that. But I believe it's such bad fiscal policy that we may be creating another hurdle that the State will put on us, because this isn't going to go away, how bad this borrowing is. We'll need PICA's approval before we incur long-term debt. And I don't think it was ever anybody's intention of doing that, but that's my prediction. Thank you.
You're welcome. Does anyone else care to be recognized? (No response.)
Seeing no one, this bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING
No. The no's are three; the ayes are 11, and the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060693.
An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application in an amount not to exceed $5,150,000 to assist in the development of Germantown YWCA. 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING 060696.
An ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code to add AFSCME District Council 47 to the list of designated payees.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Is Councilwoman Miller in the room? (No response.)
Aye. The ayes are 13; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060701.
An ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to file an application in an amount not to exceed $7 million to assist in the development of North Philadelphia Health Systems.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 13; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Resolution No. 060638.
A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to repeal the "resign to run" provision, so that, effective January 1, 2008, City officers and employees may become candidates for nomination or election to public office without first resigning from their City 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING office or employment.
For what purpose, Madam President? Oh, I move the adoption of the resolution. For that purpose. (Duly seconded.)
Since Resolution No. 060638 is a Charter change to the Home Rule Charter, it requires two-thirds majority. At this time, the Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. Two-thirds majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the resolution is adopted. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 060617.
An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of a proposal set forth in a resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to repeal the "resign to run" provision.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will consider Bill No. 060629.
An ordinance amending and clarifying the campaign finance provision of Chapter 20-1000 of The Philadelphia Code; in particular, defining, for purposes of the Chapter, what it means to be a candidate for City 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING elective office.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING We will now consider Bill No. 060626.
An ordinance authorizing the paving of Delaware Avenue from Levick Street to Magee Avenue.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 060632.
An ordinance amending Section 9-212 of The Philadelphia Code by prohibiting newsstands within an area bounded by Passyunk Avenue, 13th Street and Mifflin Street.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060634.
An ordinance amending Section 9-212 of The Philadelphia Code by prohibiting newsstands on both sides of 6th Street between Chestnut Street and Sansom.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll. 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060694.
An ordinance authorizing Commerce Bank to construct, operate and maintain a building facade located at 8600 Germantown Avenue.
This 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060702. 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING
An ordinance authorizing the paving of Sunshine Lane and Solar Way.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. We will now consider Bill No. 060703.
An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 344 by placing on the City Plan Sunshine Lane and Solar Way.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Aye. 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays will zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill to be called is Bill No. 060730.
An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 278 by placing on the City Plan Delaware Avenue from Hellerman Street to Magee Avenue.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The last bill to be called for consideration is Bill No. 060638.
An ordinance amending Section 19-2604 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Tax Rates, Credits and Alternative Tax Computation," all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill having been read on two different 10/26/06 - STATED - 2ND READING days, the question now is shall the bill pass finally. The Chief Clerk will please call the roll.
Aye. The ayes are 14; the nays are zero. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, this bill passes, and that concludes our Calendar, and at this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I received a resolution from the Redevelopment Authority relatively late and I would like to ask if I can introduce this now.
Madam President, I have one resolution to offer at this time.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority, the City of Philadelphia, for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model
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 please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. Are there any speeches on the part of the minority? (No response.)
Are there speeches on the part of the majority? The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. This is not a speech. I want to be recorded as voting aye on bills when I was not in the Chamber.
The record will so reflect that. Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I rise today to talk about housing reorganization. Some people, individuals involved, are told that they have to, by the end of the month, make decisions. They have to make decisions about whether they sign up for unemployment or whether they take their pension so that they can maintain medical benefits, and as always, there's a big question because we have people who are not 65, can't take their regular really, really limited. People in their 40's and 50's trying to start out again are very, very limited. The City is still looking at what jobs are available, although the timeline is here, and by the end of the month, even today people are told what they have to do, and some of this happened within the past two weeks. So we're still hopeful that somehow these 30 to 50 people who are targeted for layoff will have places in our City. We're still announcing that we're happy to introduce any transfer ordinances to help in this situation, as well as to get this Council through various issues related to housing. Many of you may have noticed in your districts with regard to projects that it's harder and harder to get things done, because when people are being reorganized and they're not sure where they'll be working or what they'll be doing and where one the next day they're not, it's very difficult not only on morale and not only on their working conditions, but it affects all of us, for our residents in our City and for being able to complete the projects that we need in order to do our jobs. So we will continue to keep you involved. We're still very upset that this ball continues to roll in spite of all that we have been talking about over the last months, and certainly we ask this Council to please be watchful and do what you can. And certainly, Madam President, thank you for this opportunity to make these remarks.
You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I will be brief. My comments will be somewhat controversial, have to tell the truth. In 1999, not endorsed by the democratic party, I managed an upset victory in the City Council at-large primary election, politically backed by John Street, Chaka Fattah and others. Since coming to City Council in 2000, I brought 36 of my bills to the floor of City Council for final vote. Today I thank my colleagues for approving No. 34 and No. 35. Thirty-three of these bills were in some way related to community economic development, which is my platform. For that work this year, I received regional and national awards. Two bills were campaign finance reform measures in 2003 and 2006. After a historic veto override in December of 2003, campaign finance reform came to Philadelphia. But as soon as many people realized the new law did not apply to John Street because he was candidate, there was disappointment. Some people just wanted a "get John Street" law. Now fast forward to 2006. After almost three years of opportunity to significantly amend the law, we did so today. But there is disappointment again. This time because some people wanted a "get Chaka Fattah" law. I was willing to amend the bill that was passed today in an objective way, but in every conversation that I had yesterday with critics of this legislation, the questions were asked, Does it stop Chaka? Why doesn't it stop Chaka? How do we stop Chaka? In fact, let me read you an e-mail I received this morning from someone who tried to organize a petition drive, but only got 35 signatures. Marc Stier. He e-mails me at 8:44 a.m. this morning. "I finally found what I was looking for." Chaka's exploratory committee is authorized by him. In other words, got him. is, the Pennsylvania Election Code allows Congressman Fattah to raise and spend money on a mayoral exploratory committee. No local law can change that. And so a bill was passed this week in the State House that will support Philadelphia enacting its own campaign finance laws, and we thank State Representative Dwight Evans sincerely for House Bill No. 2420. And then there was a push to hold this bill back. Why? I've already answered that question. The only question that remains for these critics, What did you really think I was going to do? We have different goals. 2007 marks the first time in the history of Philadelphia elections that campaign contribution limits will be applied to mayoral and City Council campaigns, thanks to the members of this body. So to the so-called new reformers, you're welcome.
Thank there any other speeches on the part of the majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, November the 2nd, 10:00 a.m., 2006. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, November 2, 2006. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 12:15 p.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on October 26, 2006, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. ______________________________ MICHELE L. MURPHY RPR-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.)