COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Thursday, April 30, 1998 11:04 a.m. Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHN F. STREET COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILWOMAN ANNA CIBOTTA VERNA COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILWOMAN HAPPY FERNANDEZ COUNCILMAN ANGEL L. ORTIZ COUNCILMAN FRANK DICICCO COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILMAN W. THACHER LONGSTRETH COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO MARIE B. HAUSER, CHIEF CLERK VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103 P R O C E E D I N G S
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. The Chair notes that the hour has come and that a quorum is present. Council will come to order. Members will take their seats, visitors will retire to their seats outside the rail. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Reverend Ed Hallinan, who is Pastor of the St. Martin de Porres Church. He is here today as a guest of Councilman Kenney. Members and guests will please rise.
A reading from the prophet Isaiah. Is this the manner of fasting I wish? Of keeping a day of penance that a person bow one's head like a reed and lie in sack cloth and ashes. Do you call this a fast, the day acceptable to the Lord? This, rather, is the fasting that I, Yahweh, wish. Releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs of the yoke, setting free the oppressed, breaking every yoke, sharing your bread with the hungry, sheltering the oppressed and the homeless, clothing the naked when you see them, and not turning your back on them. Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your wounds shall be quickly healed. Your vindication shall go before you and the glory of the lord shall be your rear guard. God, you are a God of power. And you use your divine power to bring about the beauty of creation and to build justice for all people. May the City Councilmembers who have been given the gift and responsibility of power to govern, may the City Councilmembers use that power as you would, to bring about peace and justice for all your people, to foster liberty and opportunity for fullness of human life. Like you, dear God, may the City Councilmembers in these halls of power recognize the special care that they have for those who are powerless, those who are oppressed, those who are suffering and marginalized and are voiceless. May the City Councilmembers remember how harshly you have judged and condemned human rulers and those in authority who abuse power and wield it in ways that only increase suffering and oppression. God, empower all your people, empower all Members of Council with the vision of your reign, for all people flourish where the resources of your creation are shared abundantly, where there is no violence or domination. May all our deliberations and decisions help us build a society that reflects your love, your compassion, your justice. We ask this prayer in the name of God. I'd ask everyone to respond amen. AUDIENCE: Amen.
The Chair thanks Reverend Hallinan for his inspiring invocation.
The next order of business is the approval of the journal of the meeting of Thursday, April 23, 1998. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.
Sorry, Mr. President. I move that the journal of May 23, 1998 stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The journal of the meeting of April 23, 1998 stands approved.
The next order of business is leaves of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilwoman Clark and Councilwoman Tasco.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. Leave will be granted. As most people know, Councilwoman Clark suffered the loss of her mother and, of course, will not be with us. I believe all offices have been notified as to the date and time and place of the services. We ask that you all keep Councilwoman Clark and her entire family in your prayers. The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth.
Mr. President, I have no requests for leaves of absences on behalf of the Minority.
At this time, we will dispense with our regular order of business to recognize visitors. To all of our visitors and guests with us this morning, we welcome you here and applaud your interests in the civic affairs of our City and certainly invite you to come again. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, I would like to introduce two fourth-grade classes from A.S. Jenks School, at 13th and Porter, in Councilman DiCicco's district. With the two fourth-grade class is their teaches, Mrs. Lisa Leslie and Madeline Cassiano. They're here from A.S. Jenks, at 13th and Porter.
Can we have this group please stand. (A.S. Jenks School visitors stand for recognition.) (Applause.)
Thank you very much. Is there any other Member that has a visiting group you'd like to introduce at this time? (No response.)
I see visitors on the front row with us. These must be people who are getting one of the citations? Okay, we'll get to find out who they are shortly. Our first and second presentations honors West Catholic High School Basketball Team, and Miss Rashana Barnes. To make these presentations, the Chair appoints Council Blackwell. The Chair invites Coach McDonnell, Sister Mary Burr, Coach Ward, Miss Barnes, and the team to come and receive this resolution. (Applause.)
Good morning. This is a special pleasure for me. And we have resolutions from Councilwoman Clark, who is not here -- as we know, her mother passed -- as well as myself. One is for Rashana Barnes, the other for the school. This certainly is West Catholic High School, which is in my neighborhood, and I'm certainly proud to make these presentations. Resolution commending and congratulating Rashana Barnes. Whereas Rashana Barnes, the 17-year-old senior center who led West Catholic High School to its first Catholic League championship since 1977 has been named The Philadelphia Inquirer's 1998 all-Philadelphia Girl's Basketball Player for the year, and an honorable mention on the Nike All-American Team; and Whereas Miss Barnes, as president of the student council at West Catholic High School, where she maintained 4.0 grade point average; and Whereas this six-foot-two center is the best player in West Catholic's history, with an average high of 15.8 points, 11.5 points, and 4 blocks this season, she finished her first year variety rush with 1,581 points and 1,126 rebounds, for a new school record; and Whereas Rashana Barnes adopted a, quote/unquote, believe-in-yourself philosophy and applied it to her studies, to her personal life on the court against Cardinal O'Hara when she scored 20 points, 9 blocks, 15 rebounds and 3 steals, for a truly magnificent performance; and Whereas notwithstanding the offers from Virginia, Georgetown, LaSalle, and St. Joseph's University, the 17-year-old star center from West Philadelphia will join former Masterman star Andrew Garner and the front court at Penn state in the fall; Now therefore resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor, congratulate and commend Rashana Barnes for her achievements as an all-star athlete and an outstanding scholar. Resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Rashana Barnes, further evidencing the sincere sentiments, home town pride, and high commendation of this legislative body. And certainly this was certified. It's a true and correct copy of an original resolution adopted by the Council on the 8th day of April, and it is signed by the President, introduced by Gussie Clark, and sponsored by all Members of Council. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Ms. Barnes for remarks. MISS BARNES: First of all, I want to thank the City Council for honoring me today. It's not every day that teenagers, especially teenagers from the city, are seen in a positive light. So I'm thankful that you recognized my accomplishment and put me in that light today. There have been many things that brought me to this point. My diligence, dedication and faith; but most of all, the diligence, dedication and faith of people who support me every day. Sometimes I think about my achievements and I ask myself, How did I do it? Or even why did I do it? Why? Because I love it. And how? By being surrounded by people who encourage me and believe in me, believed that I can be the best by doing the best, whether it's on the court or in the classroom. And with the positive influences surrounding me -- my family, teachers, and friends -- it makes it a lot easier for me to not only believe in my dreams, but to make them a reality. Thank you. (Applause.)
Mr. President, I have one also honoring the school, and I would certainly ask some of my colleagues to join me, Councilman Kenney, Councilman Cohen, Ortiz, and Fernandez, because it is for the entire school. And these are some of our large people, and I would certainly hope that they would share in this presentation. And it is honoring the West Catholic High School Girls Basketball Team. Whereas on March 8th, the West Catholic High School Girls Basketball Team, in a stunning victory, defeated the Cardinal O'Hara High School team to become the 1998 Catholic League Girls Basketball champions; and
Whereas the huge crowd at the Pallestra was fired up, and the team in the zone as the girls made the shots, got the rebounds, and in every way displayed true championship character in a 60 to 37 victory; and
Whereas we recognize at this time the fabulous inspirational skill of Coach Maureen Ward, as well as the terrific support of West Catholic President, Brother John McDonnell, FSC; Principal Sister Mary Burr, IHM; and the entire faculty and board of directors; and
Whereas by this victory, the West Catholic Girls Basketball Team, who brought the school its first Catholic League title since 1977 have displayed the true value of sports, discipline, determination and commitment, desire, intelligence, and drive; Now therefore resolved. . .
. . . by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor and commend THE West Catholic High School Girls Basketball Team for earning this year's Catholic League championship.
Resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the West Catholic High School and to its girls basketball team as evidence of the sincere respect and hearty congratulations of this legislative body. And certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution that we sponsored on the 23rd of April. And it is certainly signed by every member of City Council. Congratulations. (Applause.)
At this time, the Chair recognizes coach for remarks. COACH MCDONNELL: President Street and Members of the City Council, as president of West Philadelphia Catholic High School, I wish to thank you for recognizing the Lady Burrs this morning. This is the 67th Catholic League Championship that West Catholic has earned since the beginning of the school, in 1916. I also would like to thank Councilwoman Blackwell for introducing the proclamation this morning; and also Mrs. Eleanor Dezzi, an alumna of West Catholic and a member of our board of trustees, for bringing us to this point this morning, here before the City Council. (Applause.) COACH MCDONNELL: As mentioned, on Sunday, March, 8th, before a crowd of 7,000 at the Pallestra, the Lady Burrs of West Catholic brought the championship home to the City of Philadelphia, after ten years in the suburbs. (Applause.) COACH MCDONNELL: West Catholic is proud of her alumni and her alumnae, who number more than 60,000, probably the largest alumni group in the metropolitan area, in not in the United States. The West Catholic alumni and alumnae have taken leadership positions in politics, in government, in community, business, and in church roles. We are proud that our basketball team will move on, as many of our seniors, as they graduate, will assume these leadership roles in the community. West is also proud that we have been recognized by the United States Department of Education as a blue-ribbon school excellence. West Catholic is the only high school in the five-county Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the only school in the City of Philadelphia to be recognized as such. So we are proud of our school, and we hope that you, as Members of City Council, are proud of West Catholic and our students. Thank you. (Applause.)
Our third presentation commends the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. To make this presentation, the Chair appoints Councilwoman Fernandez and Councilwoman Verna. The Chair invites Mr. Dick Nugent to come and receive this resolution.
I would ask my colleague Councilman DiCicco to join us. Please come up. (Councilman DiCicco joins Councilmembers Verna and Fernandez.)
Mr. President, we are indeed honored to present the following resolution commending the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for their efforts to build a National Environmental Education Center on the grounds of the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, in Southwest Philadelphia. Whereas the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, which is located in Southwest Philadelphia, receives nearly 70,000 visitors a year from nearby neighborhoods and surrounding regions; and Whereas local residents and visitors to the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge already enjoy such activities as bird-watching, fishing, bicycling, hiking, and canoeing in the marshland which makes up the refuge; and
Whereas the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation has developed a comprehensive plan for the creation of the National Environmental Education Center at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge; and Whereas the National Environmental Education Center will be a $5 million state-of-the-art environmental facility, the first of its kind to be built in the Philadelphia region; and
Whereas having received nearly $2.5 million in private funding, the new National Environmental Educational Center will serve as a model of public-private partnerships for conservation and environmental; and Whereas the new National Environmental Education Center will provide the approximately 450,000 students from the City of Philadelphia and the region with an invaluable educational resource for learning about conservation of natural resources in a hand-on manner; and Whereas through collaborative programming and public-private cooperation, the center will enhance the educational and recreational capabilities of partner organizations throughout the region as well as complement and coordinate with centers emphasizing other conservation themes in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and New York City, providing an eastern corridor of environmental-education opportunities; now. . .
Therefore resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby commend the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for their efforts to build a National Environmental Education Center at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, in Southwest Philadelphia; Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Dick Nugent. Certification, this is a true and correct copy of the original privileged resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, on the 12th of March, 1998. Sponsored by Councilmembers Verna, Fernandez, and DiCicco; cosponsored by all Members of Council; and signed by the President, John Street. Mr. Nugent. (Applause.)
Mr. President, Councilmembers, good morning. I'm Dick Nugent, the Refuge Manager of John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge. I want to give special thanks to Councilwoman Anna Verna, Happy Fernandez, and -- I'm sorry I don't remember this gentleman's name on my right.
DiCicco. Please forgive me. I want to thank all of the sponsors of the resolution that honored the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for the great work they're doing for the refuge. I view this resolution as actually a reaffirmation of the City's long-standing bipartisan support for the refuge. Some of you folks may not realize how far back that goes. I was doing a little research. It goes back some 46 years. I'd like to recap it real quickly. The president says I have about 40 minutes, is that pretty close? (Laughter.)
We'll cut it down to about four, if you can bear with we. Back in May of 1952, Mayor Joe Clark agreed to the need for preserving the marsh in Southwest Philadelphia. In October of that year, the City Planning Commission gave its approval for a City refuge. In August of 1955, City Council voted its acceptance of the Tinicum Marshland from the Gulf Oil Company. In March of 1958, the 145-acre Tinicum Wildlife Preserve was formally opened by Mayor Richardson Dilworth. For the next 14 years, the Department of Recreation managed it as the Tinicum Wildlife Reserve. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, who I represent today. Back in -- I think it was 1978, Mayor Frank Rizzo was involved with the Redevelopment Authority in transferring additional acreage to the refuge. And as recently as 1995, the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority gave another 18 acres to the service. In the current spirit of recycling and sustainable design of materials, I'd like to go back some 40 years, almost to the month, and recycle some sustainable words spoken by the late and great Alston Jenkins, who was the president and founder of the Philadelphia Conservationists. Some of you folks may remember him, certainly his organization. He gave remarks at the official opening of the Tinicum Wildlife Preserve in March of 1958. He was speaking before Mayor Richardson Dilworth, various commissioners, and about 3 or 400 ladies and gentlemen who came to the ribbon-cutting. As a basis for the few remarks I'm about to make, let me quote just three sentences from the Philadelphia Housing Association report of October 1956. I know we're talking ancient history, but I think it has bearing as to what we're doing here today. I think they constitute a very pertinent introduction to our thoughts about the Tinicum Wildlife Preserve. And he quotes: Unless steps are taken immediately to acquire and preserve sizable tracts of open land, the Philadelphia area will not be a desirable place to live by the year 2000. Quote, the mess and scramble of suburban growth that has swamped the area will plague our progeny. Quote, of all the problems facing the Philadelphia area because of metropolitan growth, the most urgent one is the preservation of urban space. That's his end-quote for the Philadelphia Housing Association. He goes on: This is a big day for the Tinicum Wildlife Preserve. You might say it's confirmation day. We are glad and proud that Mayor Dilworth is able to be here and to confirm the City's part in establishment. There are two operations involved in the setting aside of a natural area for conservation and public enjoyment. One is the saving and the other is the preserving. The saving of Tinicum was accomplished two years ago when another site was found for the silt which was going to be dumped here when the City agreed to accept the area as a conservation and recreation asset. That was the first part. Now comes the second part, the preserving, which means the permanent protection and appropriate use of the area. This is the part which is beginning today. , planning for school children and adults to visit and observe nature and wildlife. It is wonderful to realize that right now, within five miles of City Hall -- the distance hasn't changed in 40 years -- we can walk out on this (unintelligible) and see hundreds, perhaps thousands of ducks or eight or ten different species that the Preserve manager can show you owls hawks and muskrats -- I can still do that today. And that in a few weeks, there will be herons, egrets, rails, gallinules, shorebirds, and many others coming today. That all of this is provided without charge by nature and the center of a large metropolitan area. That's still true today. This is a free natural park that has cost the City nothing to acquire, that will cost vigilance and a sense of proportion to preserve. Conflicting demands for highways, dumps, parking areas or other commercial use must be resisted.
In fact, enlargement of the Preserve is eminently desirable. Everyone knows that green park areas are desperately needed not only in our urban areas, but all along our eastern sea board. There are few precious areas left. Philadelphia is fortunate in having this outstanding one within its City limits. Let us reemphasize our theme, then. The saving has been done, the preserving is at hand. We must go through with that just as effectively as we have with the saving. If we do that, there is indeed a bright future for the Tinicum Preserve and for the people who will use it, end-quote. We are now in the future and it is indeed bright. Thank you for all of your continuing support. )
Behind me is the muscle for building the new National Environmental Education Center that was alluded to the in resolution. We have Sarah Nicholas, of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation; Phoebe Resnick, with Resnick Communications; Musko (ph.) Martin and Susan Maxman, Engineering; Bill Becker, with Arena & Company; and Pam Rooney, from our regional office in Massachusetts. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair recognizes the Sergeant-At-Arms for the purpose of delivering the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. (Sergeant-At-Arms delivers messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk.)
April 24, 1998, to the President and the Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that I have today signed the following bills, which were passed by Council on April 16, 1998: Bill No. 970823, 980006, and 980203. And a resolution agreeing to participate in the City Hall Annex Tax Increment Financing District. And a resolution agreeing to participate in the PSFS Increment Financing District. And a resolution agreeing to participate in the Penns Landing Tax Increment Financing District. And a resolution agreeing to participate in the Reading Terminal Head House Tax Increment Financing District. And a resolution agreeing to participate in the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Tax Increment Financing District. And an ordinance amending an ordinance approved August 30, 1965, as amended, which approved the Redevelopment Proposal, the Urban Renewal Plan, and the Relocation Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Center City redevelopment area Franklin Urban Renewal Area. And an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal of the Urban Renewal Plan and the Relocation Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Grays Ferry Urban Renewal Area. And an ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of a portion of the Point Breeze East Redevelopment Area. And an ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades, and Professions" by requiring all building construction contractors to obtain a license by requiring and prohibiting certain conduct by such contractors and by providing for penalties, all under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of a portion of Sarah Allen Redevelopment Area. And an ordinance amending an ordinance approved on December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal of the Urban Renewal Plan and the Relocation Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of Mantua Urban Renewal Area. And an ordinance amending an ordinance approved on December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal of the Urban Renewal Plan and the Relocation Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of Model Cities Urban Area. And an ordinance authorizing the Mayor to enter into an amendment to the agreement authorized by ordinance approved December 29, 1972, Bill No. 455, as amended, between the City of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Facilities Management Corporation relating to the operation and management of the Philadelphia Gas Works, under certain terms and conditions, by authorizing the Philadelphia Facilities Management Corporation, on behalf of the City and the Gas Works, to enter into the electric supply business, under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance authorizing the revision lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 by relocating the northerly curb line of Race Street 36 feet in a variable distance northwardly from 19th Street to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. And an ordinance authorizing the Streets Commissioner, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement with BFI Waste Systems of North America Inc. ("BFI") pursuant to which BFI will receive municipal solid waste to be collected by or on behalf of the City and transfer and dispose that municipal solid waste, under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance authorizing the Streets Commissioner, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement with USA waste Transfer of Philadelphia Inc.
("USA Waste") pursuant to which USA Waste will receive municipal solid waste to be collected by or on behalf of the City and transferred and dispose that municipal solid waste, under certain terms and conditions.
These messages will be printed in the journal. The CHIEF CLERK will read any other communications in her possession.
The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. Before I -- let me just make one remark. Let me apologize. Even though Councilman Longstreth is the tallest member of our body, I neglected to call him up when we called on all Councilmembers at large. So let me apologize and certainly say that he's always welcome into any party where I'm attending.
Thank you very much, Councilwoman. I'm not sure Councilman Longstreth heard you. He seemed to be otherwise engaged. Councilwoman Blackwell has offered an apology to you, Councilman, for failure to invite you up when she made the presentation. And it's at least in some way related to your height, not your age.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
An ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 22, 1987, which approved the redevelopment proposal of the Urban Renewal Plan and the Relocation Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment Mantua Urban Renewal Area. And an ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of a portion of the Sarah Allen Redevelopment Area ("Sarah Allen Urban Renewal Area") being the area generally bounded by the center line of Westminster Avenue on the north and 40th Street on the east.
These bills will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
The Clerk will please read the titles of the resolutions.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
A resolution commending Philadelphia Police Officers Robert Walls, badge 6309, and Joseph Domenico, badge 4522, for their exemplary police work and dedicated service to the citizens of this city.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.
Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I offer two bills and two resolutions. I also offer four bills and one resolution.
The Clerk will please read the titles of the bills, all the bills.
An ordinance amending an ordinance, approved December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal of the Urban Renewal Plan and the Relocation Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of Model Cities Urban Area. And an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 22, 1987, which approved the redevelopment proposal of the Urban Renewal Plan and the Relocation Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the relocation of the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Urban Renewal Area. And an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the redevelopment proposal of the Urban Renewal Plan and the Relocation Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of Grays Ferry Urban Renewal Area. And an ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of a portion of the Point Breeze East Redevelopment Area ("Point Breeze East Urban Renewal Area") being the area generally bounded by the southerly side of Washington Avenue. And an ordinance authorizing the Streets Commissioner, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement with USA Waste Transfer of Philadelphia ("USA Waste") pursuant to which USA Waste will receive municipal solid waste to be collected by or on behalf of the City. And an ordinance authorizing the Streets Commission, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement with BFI Waste System of North America Inc. ("BFI") pursuant to which BFI will receive municipal solid waste to be collected on or behalf of the City.
These bills will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Clerk will please read the titles of the resolutions introduced by Councilwoman Verna.
A resolution agreeing to participate in the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Tax Increment Financing District, if it should be created by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, in accordance with the Tax Increment Financing Act of July 11, 1990.
This resolution will be referred to appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia deeds for properties in the 36th and 40th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Clerk will please read the title of the last resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia deeds for properties situated in the 16th, 20th, 28th, 29th, 37th, and 43rd Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill by request of the Administration and one resolution.
An ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Regulation of Businesses, Trades and Professions" by requiring all building and construction contractors to obtain a license by requiring and prohibiting certain conduct by such contractors and by providing for penalties, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing Council's Committee on Licenses and Inspections to conduct an investigation and hold a public hearing into the recent allegations of consumer fraud levied against Ogden Entertainment, the contractor of record, with the City of Philadelphia regarding the food and beverage concessions at Veterans Stadium.
This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Mr. President, I offer no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Fernandez.
Mr. President, I have no bills or resolutions this morning.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
Mr. President, I have no bills or resolutions this morning.
The Chair thanks Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer seven bills and five resolutions.
An ordinance granting permission to level three communications, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company registered to do business in Pennsylvania, and its successors, assignees, and agents, to construct and maintain and operate, replace or remove telecommunications systems in and under the public rights-of-way of the City of Philadelphia. And an ordinance authorizing the Crime Prevention Association of Philadelphia, 230 South Broad Street, Suite 4-E, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, owner of the property located at 2407, 2419 through 37 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, to construct and maintain various encroachments onto the east footway of South Broad Street. And an ordinance authorizing the Crime Prevention Association of Philadelphia, 230 South Broad Street, Suite 4-E, Philadelphia, owner of the property located at 2407, 2419 through 37 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to construct and maintain one electrified marquee with ground-level wing walls and one marquee projecting over the east footway of South Broad Street, under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance granting permission to Nex Link of Pennsylvania, LP, registered to do business in Pennsylvania, and its successors, assignees, and agents, to construct, maintain, and operate, replace or remove the telecommunications system in and under the public rights-of-way and city streets and/or to place such communication system within the existing facilities owned by Bell Atlantic Pennsylvania, PECO Energy Company, Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, Consolidated Rail Corporation, CSX Corporation, or other entities, holding a grant, pursuant to other City ordinances, under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance authorizing Harry Sarkinson, owner of the property located at 604 through 606 South Third Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to construct and maintain two electrified signs projecting from the side of the building 604 through 606 South Third Street over the west footway of South Third Street and over the south footway of South Street, under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance authorizing Harry Sarkinson, owner of the property located at 604 through 606 South Third Street Philadelphia, to construct and maintain various encroachments onto and over the south footway of South Street and the west footway of South Third Street adjacent to 604 through 606 South Third Street, under certain terms and conditions. And an ordinance amending an ordinance approved August 30, 1965, as amended, which approved the Redevelopment Proposal, the Urban Renewal Plan, the Relocation Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Center City Redevelopment Area Franklin Urban Renewal Area, by approving the third amendment of the Redevelopment Proposal.
These bills will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Clerk will please read the titles of all the resolutions introduced by Councilman DiCicco.
A resolution agreeing to participate in the Penns Landing Tax Increment Financing District, if it should be created by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, in accordance with the Tax Increment Financing Act of July 11, 1990, P.L. 465, No. 113, as amended, in the Center City Redevelopment Area. And a resolution agreeing to participate in the City Hall Annex Tax Increment Financing District, should the amended project plans submitted by the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development be approved and should the change and the effective date of the District be approved and authorized by the Mayor or his designees as the City's representatives for the purpose of meeting with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, pursuant to Section 582 of the Tax Increment Financing Act. And a resolution agreeing to participate in the PSFS Tax Increment Financing District, should the amended project plan submitted by the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development be approved and should the change and effective date of the District be approved in authorizing the Mayor or his designees as the City's representative, for the purpose of meeting with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development. And a resolution agreeing to participate in the Reading Terminal Head House Tax Increment Financing District, should the amended project plan submitted by the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development be approved and authorizing the Mayor or his designees as the City's representative, for purposes of meeting with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development. And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia deeds for properties situated in the 5th, 25th, and 31st Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
The resolutions of the Tax Increment Financing Districts will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Wasn't there one that was not a Tax Increment Financing District resolution? Can you read the title of the last resolution that was read.
Yeah, I'm sorry Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
The Clerk will please read the titles of the two bills.
An ordinance granting permission to Piatrano and Casetta, trading as Consetta's Cheese Shop, located at 7401 Castor Avenue, to construct and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe on the east side of Castor Avenue directly abutting and contiguous with the aforesaid property. And an ordinance amending the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located in the 53rd Ward and within an area bounded by Oxford Avenue and Eleventh Street from L-3 Limited Industrial to ASC Area Shopping Center.
These bills will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth.
The Chair thanks the Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
The next order of business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna for the report of the Council Committee of the Whole.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee of the Whole reports Bill No. 970403 and Resolution 970843 out of committee with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee of the Whole Council, to which was referred Bill No. 970403 entitled "An Ordinance" amending Section 9-601 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Garages, Parking Lots, Sales Lots and Sales Show Rooms" by deleting the existing provisions and enacting new provisions regulating valet parking. In particular, requiring valet park operator's license for persons who provide valet parking services requiring a valet parking permit for the provision of valet parking services to a business at a particular location and regulating conduct in connection with the provision of valet parking services and amending Title 12 The Philadelphia Code entitled "Traffic Code" by providing for the designation of valet parking zones and prohibiting certain conduct relating to valet parking zones, all under certain terms and conditions.
Mr. President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill No. 970403. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The rules are suspended. Bill No. 970403 will be added to our first-reading calendar today. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna for the report of the Council Committee on Finance. But before she gives that report, Resolution 970843 will be added to our calendar for our calendar for our next meeting, next week.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Committee on Finance reports Bill No. 970742 out of committee with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 970742 entitled "An Ordinance amending Section 19-201 of The Philadelphia Code Relating to City Depositories" by clarifying and updating the list of institutions in which the City is authorized to deposit funds, and by amending certain conditions, respectfully reports that it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. Bill No. 970742 will be added to our first-reading calendar of our next session
The order of business is the consideration of the calendar. The Clerk will please read the bills on the first-reading calendar.
Bill No. 970692, an ordinance amending an ordinance approved June 25, 1997. Bill No. 970047, an ordinance granting permission to National Fiber Network Corporation, registered to do business in Pennsylvania, and its successor, assignees and agents to construct, maintain and operate, replace or remove a telecommunication system in, under, and across the public rights-of-way of the City of Philadelphia.
Bill No. 970745, an ordinance amending the retirement system ordinance approved December 3, 1956, as amended, and amending the Municipal Retirement Benefit Plan 1987 Ordinance, which became effective January 8, 1987, as amended, to, in the case of both ordinances, allow members of the retirement system to name as beneficiaries and survivors any person designated by the employee, under certain terms and conditions.
Bill No. 970749, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1400 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Realty Transfer Tax" by further providing for excluded transactions and requiring the signing and certification affidavit, under certain terms and conditions.
Bill 970750, an ordinance amending Chapter 9-1100 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Fair Practices" by adding a new definition and amending certain definitions and by prohibiting discrimination in employment and places of public accommodations on the basis of marital status.
Bill No. 970403, an ordinance Section 9-601 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Garages, Parking Lots, Sales Lots, and Sales Show Rooms" by deleting the existing provision and enacting new provisions regulating valet parking.
The Chair agrees. The bills read by the CHIEF CLERK will be placed on the second- and final-reading passage calendar for our next meeting. Council will now consider bills on the second- and final-reading passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Verna.
Mr. President, all bills on the second-reading and final-passage calendar are being called for consideration, with the exception of Bill No.'s 960633, 960629, 970272, and 970794.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The first bill for consideration will be Bill No. 960823-AA. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Contracts and Procurement" by amending Section 17-107 entitled "Contractors Labor Management Relationships" by revising the prevailing wage ordinance, including extending the prevailing wage requirements to certain service contracts, revising administrative and reporting requirements providing for payment to persons who file complaints, and prohibiting discrimination against persons who file complaints, imposing costs for filing appeals, and providing for enforcement by withholding certain sums due on contracts providing for interest on underpayments of wages and providing for increased penalty, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to take the opportunity today to introduce -- or to offer an even more precise amendment to this bill than was offered last week. It has been circulated to all Members of Council, and I would request their approval of the amendment.
Thank you very much. Is there a second? (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. The amendment is adopted. This bill will be placed on our second-reading and final-passage calendar at our next session. It will be noted that it is Bill No. 960823-AAAA. . . (Laughter.)
We're going to get this right, I promise. The next bill for consideration is Bill No. 970592. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within the block bounded by Glenwood Avenue, Second Street, Tioga Street, and Phillips Street.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration is Bill No. 980233. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing generally the issuance of Gas Works Revenue Bonds of the City of Philadelphia which shall be subordinate to bonds issued under the General Gas Works Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1975, which ordinance is hereby amended to limit issuances of bonds thereunder, prescribing the form of bonds issued here under.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Mr. President I'd like to be recorded as voting aye on the amendment to Bill No. 960823-AA.
Thank you very much Councilwoman. And what about Bill No. 970592?
Thank you very much. The record will so note. The next bill for consideration is Bill No. 980233. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance constituting the first supplemental ordinance to the General Gas Works Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1998 authorizing the Mayor, the City Controller, and the City Solicitor, or a majority of them, to either sell either at public or private sale Gas Works Revenue Bonds of the City of Philadelphia.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. The next bill for consideration will be Bill No. 980234. The Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing generally the continued issuance and sale by the City of Philadelphia of Gas Works Revenue Notes of the City of Philadelphia, prescribing the forms of the note and providing for their execution and payment.
This bill, having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The Clerk will call a roll.
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. The majority of all Members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. This concludes our calendar for today.
Are there any speeches on the part of Members of the Minority? (No speeches on the part of Members of the Minority.)
Are there any speeches on the part of Members of the Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, yesterday in The Daily News, there was an article about the Second Street to Front, Cambria and Sommerset. The police captain up their has put up barricades to try to curtail some of the open-air drug activity up there. And The Daily News did an article months ago where they were -- depending which side of this issue you're on -- where they showed everybody in the City and outside the City who want to come here and buy drugs where to go. They actually did a detailed map. Well, yesterday they did a nice article about what was happening there, but they also added a detail map to where they could go buy the drugs now that they were pushed off of Cambria Street. I just have to wonder why a newspaper like Knight-Ridder would make these people's lives that live up there more dangerous than they already are. I mean, half of the people that come -- more than half the people, 90 percent of the people that come here to buy drugs have out-of-state tags. And it just becomes a real hassle for the people that live there. So I just with The Daily News would be more responsible. They could talk about the story; they don't have to put detailed maps. It would just make it a lot easier for the people that live up there. And to my Latino constituency, I would just like to say -- (gives message in Spanish). Angel Ortiz and I understand that. And maybe Jim Kenny does too 'cause he's been studying Spanish. Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you very much. Are there any other speeches? (No response.)
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May 7, 1998, at 10 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye. Those opposed, say nay. The ayes have it. This Council stands adjourned till Thursday, May 7, 1998, at 10 o'clock a.m. (Adjourned at 12:10 p.m.) C E R T I F I C A T E I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Thursday, April 30, 1998 were reported and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of same. RE: STATED MEETING __________________________________, JOSEPHINE CARDILLO, RPR