Stated Meeting, May 8, 2014

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, May 8, 2014 10:40 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN WILLIAM K. GREENLEE COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON COUNCILMAN KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES KENNEY COUNCILMAN DENNIS O'BRIEN COUNCILMAN DAVID OH COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILWOMAN MARIA D. QUINONES-SANCHEZ COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN MARK SQUILLA COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO MICHAEL A. DECKER,

Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)

I'd ask all guests and visitors to please retire behind the rail. If the members will take their seats, we will start. Thank you very much. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Pastor Keon Gerow of Catalyst for Change Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Kenyatta Johnson. I would ask all guests and visitors to please rise. (Members and guests rise.)

Let us prepare ourselves for prayer. God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, let freedom ring. We've come this far by faith, and faith will lead us on. Thank you for the faith of our forefathers and our founding fathers, the Washington, the tenacity of Jefferson, the fortitude of Adams. Lest we forget from where we've come. We ask your special blessings now upon the delegation that's here gathered from Liberia. Lie your hand of protection to continue to wrap around them even the more. We thank you as we continue to ask your prayers and blessings on this wonderful aggregation that's fighting the health issue across this City of Philadelphia, hepatitis. God, we even pray now for City Council President Clarke. We ask that you continue to lead him and guide him as he continues to lead this city in all truth, fairness, and justice. Bless every single Councilperson here name by name, person by person. We thank you because your word tells us that the heart of the king is in the hand of the Lord. So even now, Father, we ask that you bless President Obama. Bless the White House. And while you're blessing the White House, please don't forget about our house. Bless those who are living beneath poverty here in Philadelphia. Bless every school child and our Superintendent. Bless every single homeless person living under bridges. Bless every single business, every businessman. Bless commerce. Bless XMM. Bless every single firefighter, every police officer. Thank you for your hand of grace and goodness being with us. The citizenry of Philadelphia are better because of this City Council. And, God, please don't forget our Mayor. Be with him now and forever. In the marvelous majestic name of the master, for our faith, Jesus the Christ, we pray. Amen. (Amen.)

you, Pastor, for those inspiring words. (Council at ease.)

Thank you so much. Before we proceed, I would ask that -- excuse me. Can I have your attention, please. Thank you. Before we proceed, I'd ask that if anyone has a cell phone or any other electronic device that makes any noise, that they turn it on silent, vibrate or turn it off, please. I want to thank you for your cooperation. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 1st, 2014. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 1st, 2014 be approved. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 1st, 2014 stand approved. All those in favor? (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is the request for leaves of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

Good morning, Mr. President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.

The Chair thanks the gentleman. And the Chair now recognizes Councilman O'Neill.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the republicans, there are no requests for leave of absence.

The Chair thanks the gentleman. At this time, I would like to dispense with the regular order of business and I would like to thank everyone who has come down here to witness their government in action. It is truly a pleasure and an honor for you to come down to see us do our job on behalf of the people. We hope your experience here today is a good experience, so much so that you come back again. So, again, thank you all very much, and please enjoy yourself today. At this time, I'd like to recognize Councilman Oh, who will present a resolution declaring May 2014 to be Hepatitis Awareness Month in Philadelphia. Would Chari Cohen and those accompanying her please join the And joining Councilman Oh, we have Councilwoman Tasco, Councilwoman Bass, Councilman Henon, and Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.

Thank you, Council President. We have a large group here today, and as we are bringing everybody up here, I'd just like to state that we are recognizing hepatitis -- I've been wisely advised to wait until everybody gets up here. Thank you very much. Hepatitis is a deadly liver disease, and we are fortunate that here in Philadelphia we have dedicated healthcare professionals and concerned citizens who are working hard to raise awareness and to combat this deadly disease. And so we are pleased to recognize these hard-working concerned citizens with this resolution declaring the month of May to be Hepatitis Awareness Month in Philadelphia. And here we have two coalitions, Hepatitis B United Philadelphia and Hepatitis C Allies of Philadelphia also, supported by the Philadelphia County Medical Society represented today by Dr. Walter Tsou, our former Health Commissioner, and Dr. Curtis Miyamoto, President of the Philadelphia -- the President of the Philadelphia Medical Society. And so I'd like to begin this resolution, which declares May 2014 to be Hepatitis Awareness Month in Philadelphia to recognize and support the joint efforts of Hep B United Philadelphia and Hepatitis C Allies of Philadelphia, coalitions aimed at raising the profile of viral hepatitis as an urgent local health priority. Whereas, viral hepatitis is inflammation of the liver that can be caused by viruses including the Hepatitis B virus and the Hepatitis C virus; and

Whereas, Hepatitis B is the world's most serious is caused by the Hepatitis B virus; causes over 80 percent of primary liver cancer cases in the world; disproportionately impacts people of Asian and Pacific Islander descent, with nearly one in ten Asian Americans being chronically infected with Hepatitis B; and will result in the premature death of one in four chronically infected persons from cirrhosis, liver cancer or liver failure; and Whereas, there are 3,000 new cases among Philadelphians every year. The majority of those infected are unaware of their infection. Infection rates in Philadelphia Asian communities range from 4 percent to 23 percent, and less than 40 percent of high-risk individuals are vaccinated against Hepatitis B; and

Whereas, Hepatitis B is completely preventable with a safe and effective vaccine; and a simple blood test and treated with approved therapies to control the disease and stop the progression to liver cancer, liver failure and death; and the United States Preventive Services Task Force updated their recommendation in February 2014 for all high-risk individuals, including most foreign-born individuals, to be tested for Hepatitis B; and Whereas, Hepatitis C is a serious liver infection caused by Hepatitis C virus, which causes severe liver conditions including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer; over 40,000 Philadelphians are living with Hepatitis C; up to 75 percent of the people infected with Hepatitis C don't know they have it; and

And whereas, a cure for Hepatitis C is now available; Whereas, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that all Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders get tested; and the United States Prevention Services Task Force recommends that all persons born between 1945 and 1965 get tested for Hepatitis C; and

Whereas, Hep B United Philadelphia is celebrating its 5th year as the largest local community-based coalition working to eliminate health disparities faced by Asians and Pacific Islander Philadelphians; and Whereas, Hep B United Philadelphia and Hepatitis C Allies of Philadelphia have worked together since 2011 to successfully position Philadelphia as a national leader in the fight against the viral hepatitis by mobilizing local stakeholders to raise the public profile of viral hepatitis as an urgent health priority, establish strong positive public partnerships, identify gaps in local Hepatitis B and C services, and develop collaborative and innovative projects to improve access to hepatitis prevention, testing, and treatment services; and

Whereas, efforts to fight viral hepatitis by Hep B United Philadelphia and Hepatitis C Allies of Philadelphia are supported by the people of Philadelphia, including multitudes of community members, healthcare institutions, schools of medicine and public health, students, community and cultural organizations, local businesses, academies, and the Philadelphia Medical Society; now, therefore Be it resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that May 2014 is declared Hepatitis Awareness Month in Philadelphia to recognize and support the joint efforts of Hep B United Philadelphia and Hepatitis C Allies of Philadelphia aimed at raising the profile of viral hepatitis and liver cancer as an

Further resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia supports appropriate testing for viral Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C for all high-risk Philadelphians. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of the resolution be presented to Hepatitis B Foundation as the lead organization of Hep B United Philadelphia, to Dr. Stacey Trooskin, Co-Chair of the Hepatitis C Allies of Philadelphia, further evidencing the sincere support and admiration of this legislative body. So I have two resolutions. I'm going to present one to each organization, and I'd like to say that this is one of the best organizations in healthcare that I've seen in terms of citizen participation, and that's why it's really doing a great job of fighting hepatitis. And the second thing is, they will be back later to provide a briefing on hepatitis. Thank you. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Ms. Cohen for remarks.

Thank you very much. On behalf of the Hepatitis B Foundation and Hep B United Philadelphia, I would like to thank the Philadelphia City Council for recognizing the importance of addressing Hepatitis B. Up to 10 percent of our local Asian Pacific Islander and African communities are affected by this devastating liver disease. Only by taking action now to ensure that people have appropriate access to testing and linkage to care can we save lives and prevent future deaths. And on behalf of all of the people standing here, Councilman Oh, we would like to present you with this commemorative fuzzy liver and remind liver healthy.

Thank you very much. (Applause.)

Thank you very much. Thank you.

Thank you. Council will be at ease.

I think we have one more speech.

It was not scripted, but please proceed, sir.

My fault.

No problem.

I'm Alex Rose. I represent the Hep C Allies of Philadelphia or HepCAP Coalition, and I join Chari and her Hep B allies in thanking City Council for recognizing Hepatitis Awareness Month. An estimated 47,000 people in Hep C and thousands of them are not even aware they have this virus. Opportunities like this to talk to City Council and the public are fantastic for helping spread the word that now is the time to raise awareness and spread hope. Medications currently on the market and many more in research can now cure most people of Hepatitis C in under 12 weeks, with far less side-effects than were seen in the past. We have a lot of work to do to ensure that all Philadelphians with Hep C have access to these life-saving medications, but with five major hospital systems, over 20 community health centers, a vast network of community-based organizations, and a committed Health Department, HepCAP's 250 members and 30 partner agencies believe that Philadelphia can be a national leader in the fight against Hepatitis C. So thank you, Councilman Oh, for allowing us to come in today. (Applause.)

Thank you. Now?

All right. We're done.

Council will be at ease, please. (Council at ease.)

Thank you very much. Can I have your attention, please. Thank you very much. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Brien, who will present a resolution recognizing the fourth day of May as Mental Health and Dignity Day in the City of Philadelphia. Would Joseph Rogers and those accompanying him please join Councilman O'Brien at the podium. And also joining the Councilman, we have Councilwoman Blackwell and Councilwoman Marian Tasco. Excuse me. Could we have a quiet, please. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. President.

You're welcome, sir.

Mr. Rogers, who is the Chief Advocacy Officer for the Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania, was unable to be with us today, but we do have with us Jacob Bowling, who is the Director of Advocacy, and along with him we have Adam Nester and Alicia Coffey. Today we're here to celebrate the Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania's history, which is a robust story of creating opportunities for individuals and family members to experience hope and overcome the challenges imposed by mental health conditions. They're dedicated to innovating new service approaches, reducing discrimination, restoring hope and self-esteem, and creating the improve their lives. Mr. President, with your permission, I will begin to read the resolution. Whereas, on May 4th, 2014, the Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania is taking part in the National Mental Health and Dignity Day, in solidarity with counterpart organizations and individual grassroots events in California, Georgia, Michigan, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Texas and West Virginia, alongside its event in Pennsylvania;

Whereas, the National Mental Health and Dignity Day is a partner with Creating Community Solutions, which is supported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the White House as part of the national dialogue on mental health; Whereas, the City of May as Mental Health Month in Philadelphia (Resolution No. 060273); Whereas, one in four people will experience a diagnosable mental health condition within any given year according to the National Institute of Mental Health, and six percent will experience severe mental illness; Whereas, the Journal of the American Medical Association recently published an article that found that nearly one in five post-9/11 Army enlistees had pre-existing mental health issues, and one in ten had considered suicide;

Whereas, the stigma and discrimination surrounding the diagnoses of mental illness are still barriers to seeking treatment worldwide; and Whereas, the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare has called for, quote, "a recovery oriented mental that recognizes, respects and accommodates differences as they relate to culture, ethnicity, race, religion, gender identity and sexual orientation; ensures individual human rights and eliminates discrimination and stigma; and in which services are provided in a comprehensive array of unifying programs and funding that build on natural and community supports unique to each individual and family," end of quote; and Whereas, the Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania has been a leader regionally, statewide and nationally in transforming mental health services to become more responsive to the priorities of individuals with mental health challenges and their family members;

Be it resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby proclaim the Fourth day of May as Mental Health and City of Philadelphia and we call upon men and women in the City of Philadelphia and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to take proactive measures to raise awareness regarding mental health conditions, to promote mental health recovery, and to encourage accessible mental health care. Be it further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to representatives of the Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania, further evidencing the sincere sentiment and high esteem of this legislative body. (Applause.)

Mr. President, with your permission, I would like to introduce Jacob Bowling, the Director of Advocacy for the Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania, for a few brief remarks.

So granted.

Thank you.

On behalf of the Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania, we would like to thank the distinguished Councilmembers who supported this resolution, Councilman O'Brien, Councilwoman Tasco, and Councilwoman Blackwell. Thank you so much. My name is Jake Bowling. I'm the Director of Advocacy and Policy at the Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania and a member of the national grassroots movement for the Mental Health Day of Dignity. On May 4th, communities across the country participate in events to celebrate and promote the dignity of people with mental health conditions, which are one in four of every Americans experience a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year. As I'm sure you know, mental health conditions are not easy, but many discrimination and prejudice they experience is actually more painful and devastating than the symptoms themselves. The media perpetuates this discrimination when they depict people with mental health conditions as violent, when they attribute mental health conditions to some type of character flaw or when they view people with mental health conditions as weak. We wouldn't tolerate such discrimination and prejudice for any other chronic health condition. Prejudice and discrimination draws people with mental health conditions into the shadows. It keeps them from getting the help that they need to mitigate the impact of the mental health condition on a person's life. It plays out in insurance discrimination, employment discrimination, discrimination in communities, NIMBY, misunderstanding from providers, and it even informs our laws and public policy. of buying into pervasive and persuasive myths that draw people into the shadows, you all took a stand to become arbiters of dignity and champions for recovery. The language in this resolution perfectly mirrors Philadelphia's history and continued leadership in facilitating opportunities for recovery for all of us, because we know that with the right supports and services, people can and do recover and give back to their communities tenfold. Promoting the dignity of people with mental health conditions is really about honoring our own dignity, because mental health is not an "us" and "them" issue. It's about all of us. It's about every single person in this room and all of our families. It's about the unwavering belief that Philadelphians can and do recover and overcome immense challenges. And in the City of Brotherly Love, we have a world-class mental health system and a dedicated and passionate army of certified peer specialists who are using their own recovery journey to stand by people as they save themselves, experiencing the transformative power of shared experience and empathy. Dignity is really realized when every person finds the support they need to recover and when discrimination and prejudice ceases. We'll continue to fight for the dignity of every Philadelphia family, and we thank you for your continued dedication and leadership. (Applause.)

One thing that Jake said when he was talking about the media coverage of catastrophic events and I'm always challenged when I watch the television coverage, and I'd like to suggest to the media that there's one profound but very simple question that is never asked: What supports did that supports didn't that individual have? And I think that's the challenge that's before us, to answer that very simple issue as a people. Now I'd like to present the citation.

Thank you. Thank you. (Applause.)

Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

Thank you. Before we move to our next presentation, the Chair would like to recognize Councilwoman Brown.

Thank you, Mr. President. I failed to acknowledge and to lift up young people who are with us today. So I would like us to salute the Youth Empowerment Services Philly to Philadelphia City Council and ask them to please stand. (Applause.)

Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you. And welcome. Thank you so much for being here today. I would also like to recognize Councilman Johnson.

Thank you, Council President. As we focus on the issue of making sure our young people get a quality education, I want to acknowledge a group of students who are here with me today from the 2nd Councilmanic District. Can I have the young people from the Penrose School please stand. (Applause.)

Thank you very much, Council President.

Thank you, Councilman. And welcome and thank you for being here today. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who honoring the Honorable Jamiyatu Watson of Liberia. Would Ms. Watson and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. And joining Councilwoman Blackwell, we have Councilman Kenney, Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, and Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.

Thank you, Mr. President. We're proud to have members here from the Mayor's Commission on African and Caribbean Immigrant Affairs and Echoes of Africa. Let me say -- I don't usually make remarks at the beginning, but I'll take this opportunity today. We want to say a special thank you to Sharida Gillison, who is the sister of the Mayor's Chief of Staff and Deputy Mayor Gillison, who is hosting all the Liberians who are here today. So we want to say thank you to her, a special thank (Applause.)

Let me say that my late husband, the late and great Lucien Blackwell, long had a positive relationship with the Liberian immigrant community in Greater Philadelphia. We both supported Mr. Voffee Jabateh, a Liberian, in the establishment of ACANA, which is the African Cultural Alliance of North America, a social service program that serves thousands of Liberian immigrants in Philadelphia. And as you all know, the Mayor's Commission on African and Caribbean Immigrant Affairs that we established in '05 represents more than 35 countries in Africa and the Caribbean. We supported the Liberian trade officer, who established the first African trade office in Philadelphia, led by the Honorable Gurly T. Gibson located at 16th and Walnut Streets. This trade office has organized a number of trade first trade mission from Philadelphia was on January 22nd to the 30th in 2011. This trade mission was honored by us signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Mayor of Monrovia, the Honorable Broh, on January 25th, 2011. The President of Liberia, with whom we've met on several occasions, Her Excellency Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, sent me a letter indicating that her representative would participate in the 2011 Odunde Festival -- you know we have 350,000 to 400,000 people here during that time -- to speak to our program, entitled, quote, "Africa is Open for Business," end of quote. The Minister of Commerce of Liberia and Mayor, Mayor Broh, both of Monrovia, were our honored guests. In the area of education, we have enjoyed several initiatives. First we had two Philadelphians that went to Liberia to teach at the William V.H. Secondly, in November 2012, we organized the Philadelphia International Collaborative Group, PICG, to work with the Liberian Ministry of Education. At that time, a Memorandum of Understanding was also signed with the Minister of Education. The Collaboration included Drexel University, Cheyney University, Lincoln University, University of Pennsylvania, and the late Reverend Leon Sullivan's organization, the International Foundation for Education and Self-Help. Since the organization of the Collaborative, we have hosted several delegations that visited Drexel, Cheyney, Penn, and Lincoln to discuss student and faculty exchange programs. In June of 2013, we were honored to host His Excellency Joseph N. Boakai, Sr., Vice President of Liberia. During his visit into Philadelphia, he visited Drexel and Lincoln. He also visited then Chairman Pedro Ramos at the with Liberian students attending Philadelphia schools. He also visited Mayor Dana Redd of Camden and Rowan University. Most recently, on March 5th, 2014, in City Council Chambers we hosted the new Mayor of Monrovia, the Honorable Clara Doe Mvogo. At that time we signed an updated MOU between Monrovia and Philadelphia. Finally, on July 25th and 26th in Philadelphia, we will host the Liberians Independence Day Celebration under leadership of Dr. Vera Tolbert and Portia Cammaro. We expect over 20,000 Liberians from across the United States to be in our city, along with the Liberian Association of Pennsylvania and the United Liberian Association of the Americas. Forgive me for taking this time. I wanted you to know that we work hard with our brothers and sisters from across the seas and we do many, many know, we meet the second Wednesday across the hall at 6:00 p.m. in the Caucus Room. Each of you is invited, and we do work of which you would be proud. Thank you. (Applause.)

This is a resolution, the Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to recognize and congratulate the Honorable Jamiyatu Watson for her dedicated service to the people of Liberia. Whereas, the Honorable Jamiyatu Watson is the Traditional Paramount Chief of Porkpa District, one of the districts in Grand Cape Mount County, Liberia, where she has been Chief since the year 2009; and Whereas, Chief Watson is one of the two female Traditional Chiefs in Liberia and the first female to serve in this position in her respective district; and Whereas, it was predicted that after the passing of the Honorable Madave, that a lady must come in line in order to bring the chiefdom to unity and it became paramount that the councilmen had to follow the decision of their ancestors;

And whereas, it is demanded by tradition that the chosen one must have attended the women's secret society for five years, must come from the upper region of the chiefdom whose parent must have been a traditional councilman or chief; and Whereas, the purpose of a woman to attend the traditional society for that length of time was to properly educate the person to both the women's and men's societies so that when there are serious conflicts or crisis, those type of cases will be decided in one of those society gatherings; and Whereas, Chief Watson was born on December 10th, 1962 unto the union of Mrs. Massa Konneh in Borborm Old Town; and Whereas, she attended the Kongo Public Elementary and Junior High and later enrolled at the D. Tweh High School in New Kru Town, Bushrod Island where she graduated in 1982. She later attended the Tubman National Institute of Medical Arts, a nursing school at the John F. Kennedy Medical Hospital; and

Whereas, Chief Watson is married to Mr. Moses Watson and they are blessed with six children, all boys; and Whereas, the Porkpa District is the largest in Grand Cape Mount County both in population and size, with a population of approximately 43,000 people; and Whereas, the civil war in Liberia, which lasted from 1989 to 2003, had a significant toll on the district. There was massive destruction in nearly all the towns and villages, and the death high; and Whereas, with the leadership of Chief Watson, the war did not break the human spirit of the people of Porkpa District; in fact, it only energized them to achieve greater heights and has inspired them to work harder in order to live decent lives.

Therefore, by virtue of this resolution, the Council of the City of Philadelphia hereby recognizes and congratulates the Honorable Jamiyatu Watson for dedicated service to the people of Liberia. We in this Council extend the sincere respect and admiration of our legislative body, and we are proud to say that this is agreed to and supported by all members of Council and it is with great pride that we present it. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Ms. Watson for remarks.

Just a word, if may, about history. In 1847, most of us will remember that northern abolitionists and the United States government provided the wherewithal for a nation to be born on the West Coast of Africa, which, of course, is Liberia. I just wanted to repeat that Liberia is one of only two black republics in the world. The first one, of course, being Haiti. And I think we need to recognize that since that time, Liberia has come a long way. Of course, they were stopped in their tracks by the kind of interesting warfare that took place over the last several decades, but as you've heard from Councilwoman Blackwell, they've improved. They're on their way to going forward productively and as an open society. Now, we came to meet Traditional Paramount Chief Watson primarily because of Sharida Gillison, who happened to be in the same church attends, and she became his godmother and, of course -- where is Sharida? (Applause.)

Of course, when she found out that Chief Watson was coming to the United States and would be visiting Philadelphia on an extensive trip, she urged him to invite her to come to Educators to Africa's meeting, and of course she complied when she came in. And we asked her to discuss the Liberia past and present and what its present conditions are. She made a wonderful presentation. We had a great conversation. We then decided that perhaps what we should do is to ask City Council as our governing body to take a look at what she was doing and who she is and who she was and perhaps present her with the citation. Councilwoman Blackwell is the person responsible for that, and I thank -(Applause.)

Educators to Africa, of course, is a group that has been formed since the '70s. We have actually 43 years in existence. I'd like to introduce two of our founding members, Chad Erwin and Elsie Erwin. (Applause.)

Chad is past President. Elsie is the Treasurer. Of course, Carolyn Holmes, Dr. Holmes, is past Director of the Philadelphia African American Studies Department. And we have another member of Educators to Africa, and that is Milford Hall. (Applause.)

And I'm Oscar Hankinson, and I thank Councilwoman Blackwell and the other Councilpersons and all of Council for this opportunity to do something wonderful for Chief Watson. (Applause.) CHIEF WATSON: Thank you. My Watson, Traditional Paramount Chief of Porkpa District, Grand Cape Mount County, Republic of Liberia. I accept this proclamation on behalf of my people. I want to say thank you, Mr. Mayor and members of the City Council of the City of Philadelphia, especially Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, for this great honor bestowed upon me on behalf of my people. I will certainly convey to the people of Liberia this great spirit of City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection which illuminated here this morning. This recognition is a manifestation of the greatest of the people of the United States of America. It's further proof the general assumption among the people of Liberia and others around the world that America is a beacon of hope for all people, no matter their region or class. Thank you, Philadelphia, and may God really bless the people of (Applause.)

I would also would like to present to our wonderful Chief a certificate from Educators to Africa that says, Thank you. Educators to Africa congratulates the Honorable Chief Jamiyatu Watson for leading the valiant effort in rebuilding Liberia and for informing us of the people's progress and determination, and it's signed by Oscar H. Hankins, Ph.D., April the 13th, 2014. (Applause.)

Thank you so much. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)

Thank you. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages from the Mayor. Mr. Decker, please read those

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that on May 6, 2014 I signed all the bills that were passed by Council at its session on April 24, 2014; and I am transmitting for the considerable of your honorable body a resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area, identified by house numbers and street addresses as 1507 Catharine Street and 1515 Catharine Street; and A resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area, identified by house numbers and street addresses as 1312 North 16th 1314 North 16th Street; and A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to create the Department of Aviation and to transfer the functions of certain City agencies with respect to the expansion, maintenance and operation of City airports to the Department of Aviation; and An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of the proposal set forth in a resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to establish the Department of Aviation and to transfer the functions of certain agencies with respect to the expansion, maintenance and operation of City airports to the Department of Aviation; and An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of area bounded by Wood Street, 18th Street, Vine Street, and 19th Street; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey that certain parcel or parcels of City-owned land, together with the buildings and improvements located thereon, commonly known as the Family Court Building bounded by 18th Street, Vine Street, 19th Street, and Wood Street and known as 1801 Vine Street, all under certain terms and conditions.

Thank you, Mr. Decker. Do you have any additional communications in your possession?

I have none, Mr. President.

Thank you very much. Those messages will be printed in today's Journal. And the next order of business is introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of myself, Councilman Goode, and Councilmember Blackwell, I offer one bill.

Thank you, Councilman.

An ordinance amending Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Contracts and Procurement," by amending Chapter 17-1700, entitled "Prompt Payment of City Vendors and their Subcontractors," by requiring that certain notice be given to the City and subcontractors and sub-subcontractors, providing requirements for City action in certain situations, extending rights and requirements to other contractual parties, and adding certain enforcement options.

That bill will be referred to committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

Thank you, Mr. President. Today I introduce one bill and one non-privileged resolution. Thank you.

Thank you, Councilwoman.

An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by providing that zoning permits, issued as of right, be posted on the Department of Licenses and Inspections official website, that copies of such permits be provided to the district councilmember whose district includes the permit holder's property, and making technical changes.

That bill will be referred to committee.

And a non-privileged resolution supporting President Barack Obama in his condemnation of the terrorist organization Boko Haram and further supporting the President's efforts to assure the safe return of the kidnapped Nigerian schoolgirls.

And that resolution will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar.

Mr. President?

Yes, Councilwoman.

May I add that the resolution was supported by all members of City Council.

Thank you, Councilwoman.

Thank you.

So noted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.

Thank you, Mr. President. On your behalf, I offer three bills and one resolution.

Thank you, Councilman.

An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Girard Avenue, Taney Street, Poplar Street, and 27th Street.

That bill will be referred to committee.

And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey that certain parcel or parcels of City-owned land, together with the buildings and improvements located thereon, commonly known as the Family Court Building.

That bill will be referred to 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 18th Street, Wood Street, 19th Street, and Vine Street.

That bill will also be referred to committee.

And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Twenty-Ninth and Forty-Seventh Wards of the City of Philadelphia.

That resolution will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.

Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman -- the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.

Mr. President, I have one bill.

Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have -

I'm sorry. Mr. Decker.

A non-privileged resolution approving the redevelopment contract of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the South Central Urban Renewal Area, identified by house numbers and street addresses as 1507 Catharine Street and 1515 Catharine Street.

That resolution will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have three bills.

Thank you, Councilwoman.

An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business Income and Receipts Tax," by clarifying the timing of payments relating to the Credit for Contributions to Community Development Corporations, Non-Profit Organizations Engaged in Developing and Implementing Healthy Food Initiatives and Non-Profit Intermediaries.

That bill will be referred to committee.

And an ordinance legalizing an existing external steel stairs to the second and third floors encroaching on the public right-of-way at 3066 East -- 3066 E Street.

And that bill will be referred to 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 the Roosevelt Boulevard, Oxford Avenue, Dyre Street, Frankford Avenue, and Bustleton Avenue.

Thank you. And that bill will also be referred to committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Brien.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have nothing today.

Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer no bills or resolutions.

Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Good morning, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions this morning.

Thank you, Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President. No bills or resolutions today.

Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions.

Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla.

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer three bills and one non-privileged resolution.

Thank you, Councilman.

An ordinance amending Bill No. 130726, approved December 4, 2013, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan Nos. 71 and 238 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Swanson Street from Catharine Street to its terminus northwardly therefrom."

That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And an ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Watts Street and Porter Street; Juniper Street and Mifflin Street; Emily Street and 11th Street; Mifflin Street and 11th Street; 13th Street and Oregon Avenue; and 13th Street and Ellsworth Street.

That bill will be referred to committee.

And an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by creating a new Center City East /NCA Overlay District in the area bounded by the Delaware River, Spring Garden Street, Broad Street and Spruce Street, and prohibiting Personal Credit Establishments within the District.

And that bill will also be referred to committee.

And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, without consideration, deeds conveying conditional fee simple title to certain City-owned lots or pieces of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon, situate in the Thirty-First Ward of the City of Philadelphia.

And that resolution will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have one bill and two resolutions, one co-sponsored by Councilman Oh and O'Brien and another co-sponsored by Councilwoman Tasco.

Thank you, Councilwoman.

An ordinance authorizing the Director of Finance to establish a Free Library Programs and Facilities Fund in which revenue generated from competitively awarded agreements for the use of areas or facilities in the Free Library system may be deposited for use to pay expenses for programs and facilities in the Free Library system.

That bill will be referred to committee.

And a privileged resolution recognizing May 2014 as National High Blood Pressure Education Month.

And that resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution recognizing May the 4th through the 10th, 2014 as National Teacher Appreciation Week and recognizing and honoring the 55 outstanding Philadelphia public school teachers, recipients of the Lindback Award for Distinguished High School Teachers for excellence and in particular the six recipients from schools located in the 8th Council District.

And that resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Oh.

Thank you very much, Council President. Today I offer two privileged resolutions collectively co-sponsored by Councilmembers Tasco, O'Brien, and Reynolds Brown. Thank you.

Thank you, Councilman.

A privileged resolution honoring Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation in recognition of the Tenth Anniversary of National Lemonade Days from June 6th through the 8th, 2014.

That resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution recognizing May 2014 as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate and commemorate the proud heritage of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and their invaluable contributions to enhancing the City's culture, economy, and the founding ideals of independence and democracy.

Thank you. That resolution will also be on today's Final Passage Calendar, and that concludes our introductions -- I'm sorry. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

I have one privileged resolution.

Thank you, Councilwoman.

A privileged resolution honoring Patricia A. Coulter for her achievements in service to the citizens of Philadelphia as the President and CEO of the Urban League of Philadelphia.

And that resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar. introduction of bills and resolutions, and we will go to our reports from committee, and we would like to recognize Councilwoman Bass for a report from the Committee on Parks and Recreation and Cultural Affairs.

Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you. Mr. Decker, please read that report.

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, to which was referred Bill No. 140180, entitled "An ordinance amending an ordinance (Bill No. 877), approved September 16, 1994, by amending an exhibit thereto, in order to the amount of funding any entity may receive in any fiscal year from the Philadelphia Activities Fund"; and Bill No. 140224, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to acquire from the Salvation Army a certain tract of land at the southeast corner of 22nd and Market Streets, known as 2140 Market Street; and amending Chapter 15-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Fairmount Park,' to make the parcel part of the Fairmount Park System and to make technical changes," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.

Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilwoman Bass.

Thank you, that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading today of Bills No. 140180 and 140224. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended this day so as to permit first reading of Bills No. 140180 and 140224. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and these bills will be placed on our First Reading Calendar today. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. I note that the bills just reported from committee with suspension have been 5/8/14 - STATED - 1ST READING deemed to have had a first reading. These bills will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. Mr. Decker, please read any other bills on the First Reading Calendar.

Bill No. 140207, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 12 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Traffic Code,' to revise the fee for the use of parking meters; all under certain terms and conditions."

The Chair agrees, and that bill will be placed on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones concerning a motion concerning the bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following bills on Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar: No. 130948, 130878, 140014, 140015, 140236, 140237, 140276, 140280, 140281, 140282, 140093, 140094, and 140312. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the bills just read by Councilman Jones. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, the motion carries, and we will consider the Consent Agenda shortly. Now the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of 2ND READING calling up bills and resolutions on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.

Thank you, Mr. President. In addition to the bills being considered on the Consent Agenda, the following resolutions and bills are being called up from Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 140318, 140392, 140393, 130884, 140035, 130694, 140131, 140205, and 140206. All other bills and resolutions are being held.

Thank you, Councilman. Before considering these bills and resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar, we will have our public comment session. The public comment session will go as follows: If you are interested in testifying on a bill or resolution that is on the Final Passage Calendar today, we'd ask that you sign up at the table to my left, if you have not already done so. When your name is called, we'd ask that you come to the podium in the middle of Council. There's a device on that. There's a light. When the light turns green, it's your time to speak. When the light turns yellow, you have 30 seconds to conclude your remarks, and when the light turns red, we ask that you please adhere to the guidelines and conclude your remarks. Mr. Decker, would you please call the name of the first individual who is testifying today.

Melba Terrell.

And I think I forgot to mention that you have three minutes to testify.

Commenting on 130541. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning. I stand before you as a disabled colon cancer patient. I have reached out to many of your constituents. A lot of you guys I have reached out to for housing. Because I may not look like I have a disability, I do. I've been to Mayor Nutter. I have reached out to -Kenyatta Johnson, I really thank you. Even though I wasn't in your district, you did help me. I really appreciate that. I have reached out to Jannie Blackwell. I have reached out to Vanessa Brown. I have even reached out to Congressman Brady's office for help. I don't know what I have to do. I cannot get housing. I cannot go in a shelter. So I don't know what to do, and I'm just asking that maybe one of you guys take some time out of your busy day and talk to me. I don't have a mental health problem. I'm not on drugs. I have a colostomy bag, and all I'm asking for is housing. I'm willing to pay. Even on my income, I am willing to pay. And that's all I ask, is for housing. Not the projects. Housing. Because not all of us was raised in the hood. Some of us was raised in a neighborhood.

Ms. Terrell, you listed that you're going to speak about a particular vacant property in the 2nd District.

Well, I do have a particular vacant property. It is exactly 701 North 64th Street.

Is that on today?

Mr. Clarke -

I'm just asking you a question.

Mr. Clarke, I thought this was for people with disabilities today. That's the only reason why I came here this morning.

I understand. Can we do this: Can you hang around for a little bit?

I'll hang around, but as long as I don't be keep getting the runaround like I have been getting from your constituents. I will be so very grateful.

Okay. Yeah. Councilwoman Blackwell wanted to say -

Sure. I'll be happy to speak with her. I have no idea what happened, but that's why we're here. We're happy to do our best to help.

Yeah. That's why I wanted her to hang around.

I would like to talk to you, Mr. Jones.

Thank you, Ms. Terrell.

Thank you.

Clarc King, commenting on 130878. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning, Mr. President. Good morning, Councilmembers. Thank you for your time here. I'd like to speak to Resolution 130878 regarding the Office of Sustainability. Sustainability imposes its power on energy resources and policies, so I am concerned about the Office of Sustainability's power and reach and the City's operation. Sustainability comes from the green ideology, and in the green ideology is the demand to radically reduce the population. It is in the demand to devolve our energy generation technologies, which is behind the demand for solar and wind energy. It is in the demand to de-industrialize to lower the American standard of living, to lower the cost of labor, impacting the economic rights of workers. I trust City Council will be informed on the issues and policies that actually demand an economic and population contraction policy. I inform the City Council that the United States Navy has developed technology that extracts hydrogen from sea water. The extraction of hydrogen from sea water and desalinization are the great industries for this great century. I trust that the Office of Sustainability will see the potential aimed at PGW should be developing the same science and technology for energy expansion. Philadelphia must work for its energy independence and also its financial independence. I trust the Office of Sustainability conforms with the ideal of American and Philadelphia's independence. Thanks so much.

Thank you for your testimony.

Angel Rodriguez, commenting on 130884. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning. Good morning, Councilmembers. My name is Angel Rodriguez, Vice President of Community and Economic Development for Asociacion Puertorriquenoes en Marcha. I'm here in favor of Resolution 130884 and Bill 130878. Basically I want to report that the community development industry has embraced the concept of sustainability in the City and also its best practices with greening technology and also the Philadelphia stormwater management criteria, Energy Star and LEED certifications. That can be evidenced by Paseo Verdo, which is the first LEED Platinum ND certified building in North Philadelphia on 9th and Berks Street. It's also the first in the country LEED Platinum mid-rise, LEED Platinum home certified in the country. We're in favor of the Office of Sustainability mainly because we need a central area or repository that can promote best practices and also guide good legislation throughout the City so that we can continue to build sustainable and healthy communities throughout Philadelphia. Thank you.

Thank you for your testimony.

Nashiayah Ross. (Applause.)

Commenting on 140318. (Witness approached podium.)

Good morning.

Good morning. I am speaking on Resolution 140318. We are commemorating the 60th Anniversary of Brown versus Board of Education, but we are here to say that inequality and racism still exists in our education system. I am speaking on behalf of Julien Edwards. I am a graduate of OIC CADI and a representative of the Pushout Chapter of Youth United for Change. Today I am here to discuss the matter concerning the School District of Philadelphia school budget cuts. YUC stands against all budget cuts and believes that all schools deserve full and fair funding, but today I will speak on alternative education. From a personal view, I have -I know that alternative schools are one of the greatest gifts to young adults who were unable to graduate from traditional public schools. I believe I represent all students in these accelerated and alternative programs when I say we wouldn't be here. Where will we be without them? Alternative education is already underfunded, so I find it insane that it is even possible that $2.3 million could be cut from these programs. In 2011, my parents fought to keep all accelerated schools open. City Council helped to make that happen -make that a reality. Today, Pushout youth continues to be among first on the chopping block every time the School District is trying to balance the budget. This is unfair and unreasonable. Meanwhile, students continue to be pushed out. Youth United for Change recently launched a missing person campaign to represent the students who have gone unaccounted for as a result of 24 schools being shut down last year. We will be circulating a community letter about this and hope that you will sign and support our efforts. City Council, I believe that you should join us in taking action to keep these budget cuts from happening and making a bad decision even worse. You should represent us. Education should be our first and most important investment. We are asking you to give the School District the $216 million that is needed, because Pushout youth deserve a quality education too. City Council, we are asking two things of you. Approve the funds for the School District, ensure that the money for alternative education does not get cut this year, and sign on to the community letter about missing persons. That is all.

Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you so much for your testimony.

Amir Roberts. (Applause.)

Commenting on 140318. (Witness approached podium.)

Good afternoon.

Good morning, City Council. Good morning, Mr. President.

Good morning.

I'm here to support the Councilmember Johnson Resolution 140318 commemorating the 60th Anniversary of Brown versus the Board of Education. As you know, we are still struggling with issues of education equality. Philadelphia schools get fewer dollars than the suburban schools. Last year I attended CHAD, the Charter School of Architecture and Design. It was my first year at a new school, new faces. It wasn't long after the school year started I had made some toxic friends, followed by bad decisions, which ended up with me getting put out of the school. During the summer me and my mom went to the School District of Philadelphia to enroll me in another school. There were many options put on the table that day. I have read about West Philly has a media arts program. I always loved art, but my love for music was greater than drawing. My first day at West Philly I was going through the same thing I had gone through last year, a new place with new faces. At first I was a little hesitant about coming to a new school. The staff made it clear that the school year will be a fresh start and a new beginning. They made it known that they wouldn't let us slip through the cracks. I felt like there was hope. With schools being shut down every year, I think that more students have to go through the same process of going to a new school and having to make new friends. It's hard to adjust to change and not make mistakes. This is the first year at West Philly School. We are still in the becoming a great school. I think shutting down alternative schools would be a big mistake. We, the people, have come so far and are close to getting their high school diploma. We have one more year left. Please don't shut down our schools. That's all.

Thank you so much for your testimony. (Applause.)

There are no other speakers on the public comment list, Mr. President.

Thank you very much, Mr. Decker. We will now consider today's Consent Agenda. I would ask Mr. Decker to please read the titles of all the bills on the Consent Agenda. After each title is read, any member may object to the inclusion of the bill on the Consent Agenda. Upon such an objection and debate, the bill will be immediately removed from the Consent Agenda and placed on our regular Final Passage Calendar. Mr. Decker will now read the titles of the bills on the Consent Agenda.

Bill No. 130948, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to acquire fee simple title, or a lesser interest in real estate, in parcels of land along the Delaware River and the Kensington & Tacony Trail"; and Bill No. 130878, entitled "An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter establishing and defining the responsibilities of the Office of Sustainability"; and Bill No. 140014, entitled "An 2 of The Philadelphia Code to provide for the powers and duties of the Department of Prisons created under Section 3-100 of the Home Rule Charter; and further amending Title 20 of The Philadelphia Code to provide for the salary of the Commissioner of Prisons"; and Bill No. 140015, entitled "An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of the proposal set forth in a Resolution approved by Council proposing an amendment to The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to transfer the functions of certain City agencies with respect to penal, reformatory and correctional institutions to a newly-created Department of Prisons and Board of Trustees of the Philadelphia Prisons"; and Bill No. 140236, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 5 of an ordinance (Bill No. 130463), approved 11, 2013, entitled 'An ordinance authorizing Fond Bistro doing business as Fond Restaurant to construct, own and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe at 1537 South 11th Street,' by extending the time for compliance with the authorization conditions therein"; and Bill No. 140237, entitled "An ordinance establishing parking regulations in the vicinity of: Eleanor Street and Old York Road; and 13th Street and Wyoming Avenue"; and Bill No. 140276, entitled "An ordinance establishing a one-way regulation on Greeby Street, from Walker Street to Erdrick Street, westbound"; and Bill No. 140280, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 271 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Hope Street from Laurel Street to Pollard Street"; and Bill No. 140281, entitled "An ordinance legalizing an existing hot air the public right-of-way at 522 Washington Avenue"; and Bill No. 140282, entitled "An ordinance establishing a one-way regulation on West Logan Street, from Germantown Avenue to Greene Street, eastbound"; and Bill No. 140093, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 21 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Miscellaneous,' by adding a new Chapter 21-2800, entitled 'Fire Service Paramedic Safety and Health,' by adopting minimum standards to protect the health, safety and dignity of uniformed Philadelphia Fire Department personnel"; and Bill No. 140094, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'The Building Construction and Occupancy Code,' by amending Subcode F (The Philadelphia Fire Code), by delineating the process to be utilized by the Philadelphia Fire consideration of temporary or permanent reductions or eliminations of fire companies"; and Bill No. 140312, entitled "An ordinance amending Chapter 17-1500 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Annual Disparity Study and Participation Goals,' by specifying the principal formulas to be used in calculating (1) the percentage of contracts awarded to Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), Women Business Enterprises (WBEs), and Disabled Business Enterprises (DSBEs) (collectively known as M/W/DSBEs); and (2) participation goals for future contracts to be awarded to M/W/DSBEs; all under certain terms and conditions."

Thank you, Mr. Decker. These bills have been read on two different days. The question for each bill now is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, please call the being called, each Councilmember shall vote aye on each of the bills, nay on each of the bills or indicate those bills for which the member is voting aye or those bills for which the member is voting nay.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye on all bills.

Councilwoman Blackwell.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Goode.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Henon.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Jones.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Kenney.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman O'Brien.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Oh.

Aye on all bills.

Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.

Aye on all bills.

Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Aye on all bills.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye on all bills.

Councilwoman Tasco.

Aye on all bills.

Council President Clarke.

Aye on all bills. The majority of all members present voting in the affirmative for each of these bills, the bills on the Consent Agenda are passed. We will now consider the resolutions and bills on the Second 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING Reading and Final Passage Calendars. Mr. Decker, would you please read the title of Resolution 140318.

A resolution commemorating the 60th Anniversary of the landmark United States Supreme Court decision Brown versus Board of Education, introduced by Councilman Johnson.

And the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and Resolution 140318 is adopted. 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING Mr. Decker, 140392.

A resolution approving the Agreement of Agency Designation pursuant to the Redevelopment Cooperation Law between the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority and the Philadelphia Housing Authority for the purpose of considering the acquisition of property by the Philadelphia Housing Authority to support its Blumberg Project.

The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.) 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING

The ayes have it, and Resolution 140392 is adopted. Mr. Decker, 140393.

A resolution honoring the memory of Samara Salina Banks, and renaming the crosswalk at Second Street and Roosevelt Boulevard to memorialize her spirit and character and serve as a reminder to cars and pedestrians to always travel safely.

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.

Mr. President, may I speak on this before we take a vote?

Absolutely.

Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilwoman Tasco and Bass for joining me in co-sponsoring this resolution honoring Samara Salina Banks and her 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING three sons, Saa'sean, Saa'deem, and Saa'mir, who were tragically killed in the accident on Roosevelt Boulevard last July. Ms. Banks and her sons were crossing the Boulevard near Second Street when they were struck by a speeding vehicle that, according to police, had been drag racing. This resolution names the crosswalk at this intersection that is being redesigned on Second Street and Roosevelt Boulevard in honor of Samara Salina Banks to both memorialize her spirit and character and serve as a reminder to drivers and pedestrians to travel safely. The death of Ms. Banks and her three sons highlight the need to take action to make this street a safer place for all travelers. Since 2001, there have been 150 people killed on Roosevelt Boulevard. Four of those deaths occurred in this year alone. For decades, this road has 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING been recognized one of the most dangerous in this country and it's time for that to change. The City of Philadelphia under the leadership of Commissioner David Perri have made great strides in informing and looking at best practices on this crosswalk. Renaming this crosswalk for Samara Salina Banks and her three sons both memorializes them and reminds drivers that ignoring the rules can come with grave tragic cost. I also want to recognize Senator Mike Stack that on April 21st held a hearing on Senate Bill 1211, which would give the City the authority to use automated cameras to enforce speed lights at the Boulevard. Her family is joining us here today represented by Charles Moulton, if he could stand up. And I want to thank all my Council colleagues and ask for their support in this resolution. 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING

Thank you, Councilwoman. You want to make a motion.

I move a motion to approve. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It has been moved and seconded several times. All those in favor? (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it, and 140393 is approved. Mr. Decker, 130884.

A resolution proposing an amendment to The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to provide for the creation of an Office of Sustainability, to provide for the powers and duties of such Office, and to otherwise provide for incorporation of 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING the Office into the City government.

Thank you. Because Resolution 130884 is a proposed amendment to the Home Rule Charter, it requires two-thirds vote. Mr. Decker, would you please call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

I'm sorry.

Mr. President, I wanted to make a few remarks on this matter before we vote.

Sure.

And I would be remiss always to not give credit where it's due. It was Councilman James Kenney who more than five years ago thought it appropriate and smart to institute this office. Over 120 cities and counties across the country have now 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING established sustainability offices. On this measure, Philadelphia will join cities like New York, Boston, Seattle, and San Francisco which have moved to make these offices a permanent function of government. And with that, Mr. President, I ask for favorable consideration by my colleagues. Thank you.

Thank you, Councilwoman. And can you make the motion?

Certainly. I move the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded. All those in favor? (Aye.)

I'm sorry. We have to roll call vote. I'm sorry. Roll call vote. Mr. Decker, call the roll. 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Blackwell.

Aye.

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye.

Councilman Henon.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilman Kenney.

Aye.

Councilman O'Brien.

Aye. 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Oh.

Aye.

Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.

Aye.

Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilwoman Tasco.

Aye.

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A two-thirds majority of all members of Council having voted in the affirmative, the resolution has been 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING adopted. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 140035.

A resolution proposing an amendment to The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to create the Department of Prisons, to transfer the functions of certain City agencies with respect to penal, reformatory and correctional institutions to a newly-created Department of Prisons and Board of Trustees of Philadelphia Prisons, and to provide for additional duties of the Department.

Thank you, Mr. Decker. Again, because Resolution No. 140035 is a proposed amendment to the Home Rule Charter, it requires two-thirds vote. Mr. Decker, please call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass. 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilwoman Blackwell.

Aye.

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye.

Councilman Henon.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilman Kenney.

Aye.

Councilman O'Brien.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill. 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilman Oh.

Aye.

Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.

Aye.

Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilwoman Tasco.

Aye.

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A two-thirds majority of all members present voting in the affirmative, the resolution passes. Mr. Decker, would you please read the title of 130694. 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING

An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by adding provisions permitting and regulating the erection of non-accessory advertising on School District of Philadelphia property.

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that Bill No. 130694 be placed on the Suspension Calendar. (Duly seconded.)

Thank you. It's been moved and seconded that Bill No. 130694 be placed on the Suspension Calendar. All those in favor? (Aye.)

Those opposed? 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)

The ayes have it, and Bill No. 130694 will be placed on the Suspension Calendar. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 140205.

An ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Employees Retirement Code," to expand the scope of "Plan '10" and "DC Plan" to cover additional employees, including employees represented by AFSCME, District Council 47.

Thank you. This bill has been read on two different days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING Blackwell.

Aye.

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye.

Councilman Henon.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson.

Aye.

Councilman Jones.

Aye.

Councilman Kenney.

Aye.

Councilman O'Brien.

Aye.

Councilman O'Neill.

Aye.

Councilman Oh. 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING

Aye.

Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.

Aye.

Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.

Aye.

Councilman Squilla.

Aye.

Councilwoman Tasco.

Aye.

Council President Clarke.

Aye. The ayes are 16; the nays are zero. A majority of members present voting in the affirmative, the bill passes. Mr. Decker, please read the title of 140206.

An ordinance amending Section 22-310 of The 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING Philadelphia Code, entitled "Deferred Retirement Option Plan," by revising and clarifying requirements relating to separation from employment.

This bill has been read on two separate days. The question is shall the bill pass finally. Mr. Decker, call the roll.

Councilwoman Bass.

Aye.

Councilwoman Blackwell.

Aye.

Councilman Goode.

Aye.

Councilman Greenlee.

Aye.

Councilman Henon.

Aye.

Councilman Johnson. 5/8/14 - STATED - 2ND READING