Stated Meeting, April 3, 2025

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, April 3, 2025 10:00 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT KENYATTA JOHNSON COUNCILWOMAN NINA AHMAD COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS COUNCILWOMAN KENDRA BROOKS COUNCILMAN MICHAEL DRISCOLL COUNCILWOMAN JAMIE GAUTHIER COUNCILWOMAN KATHERINE GILMORE RICHARDSON COUNCILMAN JIM HARRITY COUNCILMAN CURTIS J. JONES, JR. COUNCILWOMAN RUE LANDAU COUNCILWOMAN QUETCY M. LOZADA COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN NICOLAS O'ROURKE COUNCILMAN ANTHONY PHILLIPS COUNCILMAN ISAIAH THOMAS COUNCILMAN JEFFREY YOUNG, JR. ELIZABETH McCOLLUM NAZARIO, CHIEF CLERK

Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)

Good morning, everyone. (Good morning.)

I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. This Council session has now come to order. I will ask for all visitors to please retire to the seats outside the rails. Before proceeding, I will ask all those present to please set your cell phone to silent or vibrate. I ask for all side conversations be taken outside the Council chambers. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Reverend Dr. Daniel Kwon, Senior Pastor of the Korean United Church the guest of Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips. I will ask all members and guests to please rise. (Councilmembers, visitors and guests rise.)

First, I just want to thank our Council President. Thank you very much. I also want to thank our Councilmembers along with all of our guests. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity and a privilege. It truly is an honor. Let us pray. Father, we know you are the God of all creation. We know you created the heavens and the earth and you have given your people the privilege to call you Father. Abba Father, we come before your throne of grace this whom you have called to serve this great city, the city of Philadelphia, have come together for this Council session, and we have bowed our heads in reverence to you, O Lord. We come before you because we know you are the God who brings all things together for the good of those who are called according to your great purpose. Lord, we ask that you remember the dedication and the hard work of those whom you called of your servants, of our Councilmembers who have poured out their lives to making this city great and serving the people without reservation. We pray that you allow your divine wisdom (inaudible) stewards may serve with boldness and courage, knowing that you got their backs. And so, Father, we may continue to know that more than the agendas at hand, more than the daily things and the tasks to do that we come before you first and foremost, because we remember your word when you said, Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord. And so, bless this nation, God. Bless our city, the great city of Philadelphia, bless our communities and, Lord, bless our City Councilmembers, their families, especially their children, so that we might bless you. May all the glory and honor be lifted to you this morning and we pray all this in Jesus name. Amen. (Amen.)

The Chair thanks the Reverend for the invocation. be at ease. (Council at ease.)

The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March, 27, 2025. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 27, 2025 be approved. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, March 27, 2025 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the Journal is approved. The next order of business is request for leaves of absence. And the Chair recognizes Councilmember Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.

Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the Majority, a leave of absence is requested for Councilmember Squilla.

The Chair thanks the Councilmember. Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Brooks.

Thank you, Council President. On behalf of the Minority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.

The Chair thanks the Councilmember. The Chair now recognizes Majority Leader Gilmore Richardson for a motion concerning certain legislative matters that may arise during the course of today's session at Council and that were not listed on the Calendar circulated prior to today's Council session.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that any of the matters, if considered today, may be added to the agenda for this session of Council, and as required by law, subsequently published on an amended agenda after the consideration of those matters: resolutions authorizing hearings, amendments to bills on first reading, the reconsideration of a bill vetoed by or re-called from the Mayor, amendments to bills re-called from the Mayor, resolutions taking substantive action to be voted on in this session, a motion to withdraw a bill or resolution that is not on the Calendar and a motion placing a bill or resolution on or returning a bill or resolution from the Suspension Calendar that is not listed on today's Calendar. The purpose of this motion is to provide the public concerning possible actions by Council that arose too late to be included on the Calendar that was published prior to today's session. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the legislative matters stated by Councilmember Gilmore Richardson may be added to the agenda for today should those matters arise during the course of this session of Council. All those in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the recognizes Councilmember Jim Harrity.

Thank you, Council President. I ask to be excused to do business outside of Council. And I would like to be marked aye on all bills and resolutions.

It's granted. Thank you very much, Member Harrity. The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly again. I want to take a moment to acknowledge State Senator Art Haywood who's joining us today as well. We also want to acknowledge world recording artist and guest of Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada, member of Roc-A-Fella, the Roc, recording artist, but most importantly, community activist and leader, Philly's own Freeway. Thank you for joining us. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jones.

Thank you, Mr. President and colleagues. Join me in thanking Chip O'Connell from the U.S. Navy who is here watching democracy at a local level. He is the legislative liaison to the United States Navy Will you welcome him and thank him for his service. (Applause.)

The Chair now recognizes Councilmember Thomas.

Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Good morning to the citizens of Philadelphia. Today's resolution that I will be introducing honoring the Philadelphia Juvenile Justice Center School, specifically the judges who've been working with these young people to deal with issues around mass incarceration. So I just want to take a moment to recognize, first and foremost, the Co-chairs of the program: The Honorable Judge Jackson and the Honorable Judge Chen. (Applause.)

If you all could stand up. And also, the Honorable Judge Nichols, the Honorable Judge Forbes, the Honorable Judge Frazier-Lyde, the Honorable Judge Hayden, the Honorable Judge Patrick, the Honorable Judge Pittman, the Honorable Judge Hill, the Honorable Judge Sayeed(ph) and in support of this program, the Honorable Judge Williams. Can we give all of the judges here -- can you all stand up? That's you too, Judge Williams. Can you all stand up so we can acknowledge you and give you a round of applause. (Applause.)

Thank you so much for all you do for our children and thank you for today. Thank you, Council President.

You're welcome. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada.

Thank you, Council President. Today I will be introducing a resolution. I want to acknowledge my special guests who are here today. I'd like to thank the Gift of Life Donor Program who today is here. And as we recognize April as National Donate Life Month, please stand all of our volunteers. (Applause.)

The Gift of Life Donor Program's mission is to save lives by coordinating the recovery and tissues from transplants while providing comfort and care and compassion for its recipients and families. This year they are also celebrating 50 years of service. Over 50 years they have facilitated more than 55,000 organ transplants and became the nation's leading organ procurement organization. Thank you so much for all of your work and for choosing the city of Philadelphia as your headquarters. (Applause.)

The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.

I was just going to recognize my sister but Isaiah did it first, the Honorable Judge Williams. I just wanted to welcome her, but she's

I want to take a matter of personal privilege. There's a giant in a legal field by the name of Judge Green, and I see his wife is here. She's also the mother of State Senator Anthony Hardy. I'm going to ask Mrs. Green to please stand. (Applause.)

At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad, who will present a resolution recognizing April 2025 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month and celebrating extraordinary efforts of WOAR - Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence. Would Dr. Indira Henard and those accompanying her please join the Councilmember at the will be Councilmember Rue Landau, Councilmember Cindy Bass, Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips, Councilmember Quetcy Lozada and Councilmember Kendra Brooks. (Councilmembers and guests approached podium.)

All right. Thank you, Council President. Good morning, everyone, colleagues and guests. Today we recognize April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month and to honor an organization that has stood as a beacon of hope, healing and justice in our city for over 50 years, WOAR - the Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence. WOAR is more than a service provider. It is a lifeline. It is Philadelphia's And since 1971, it has been there for survivors, answering the call in moments of unimaginable pain and walking with them towards healing. In 2024 alone, WOAR provided direct services to nearly 3000 adults and over 300 children. But their impact goes beyond crisis response. They are shaping culture, empowering communities and building a future free from sexual violence. One of the ways they do this is through their Healthy Masculinity Initiative, a powerful program that engages men and boys in the work of prevention, challenging harmful norms and offers tools to become allies and changemakers. We know the statistics. We know that sexual violence is underreported and that it the margins, women, children, LGBTQ+ people and communities of color. But we also know that silence enables violence. I'll say that again. We also know that silence enables violence. And today we choose not to be silent. WOAR reminds us that healing is possible, that prevention is possible and that justice, when pursued boldly and compassionately, can transform lives. So on behalf of a grateful city, I am proud to join my colleagues to present this resolution recognizing April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month and celebrating the extraordinary work of WOAR - Philadelphia Center against Sexual Violence. And I want to take a special moment to will be speaking, Dr. Henard is here and I have to take a special moment to acknowledge Laquisha Anthony, who has been at the forefront of this. I have known her. She has been a constant at WOAR, and I'm so glad that we are here and we can acknowledge all of you and the work you're doing. So we're now going to read the resolution and I'm very grateful to my colleagues who are joining me here: Recognizing April 2025 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month and celebrating the extraordinary efforts of WOAR Philadelphia Center against Sexual Violence; Whereas, since 2001 April has been observed as National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This observed month is part of an public awareness about sexual assault and educate communities and individuals on how to prevent sexual violence. And my colleague who co-introduced this resolution with me, Rue Landau.

Thank you. Whereas, in Philadelphia 1721 incidents of sexual assault and rape were reported in 2024. The police made 47 arrests in relation to these reports of rape. However, just one-third of sexual assault cases are reported to the police. 63% of sexual assault cases are not reported to the police; Whereas, in women are survivors of sexual violence. 1 in 10 children are survivors of sexual violence. And 1 in 6 men are survivors of sexual violence. sexual assault is the most underreported crime to date. We know that sexual assault disproportionately affects communities that sit at the margins; and

Whereas, on average there are 321,500 victims age 12 and older of rape and sexual assault each year in the United States. Every 98 seconds someone in the United States is sexually assaulted; and Whereas, throughout the last 20 years this country has made great strides in bringing awareness to survivors of sexual assault. Historically, we have seen a culture that has been marked by veil, secrecy and silence. Today we see a culture that is marked with empowerment, activism and courage; and

Whereas, WOAR - Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to eliminate all forms of sexual violence through specialized treatment services, comprehensive prevention education programs and advocacy for the rights of victims of sexual assault. Founded in 1971, WOAR is Philadelphia's only rape crisis center and one of the nation's first; and Whereas, WOAR serves individuals from across the city. In 2024 alone, over 2981 adults received direct services, 323 children received direct services and 55 volunteers were trained to provide hotline support. Additionally, WOAR provided in-school prevention workshops to 11,834 school-aged children in Philadelphia as well as 1719 workshops to adult community members and City professionals; and

Whereas, Dr. Indira Henard is the Executive Director of WOAR. Dr. Henard's direct service experience and many gender-based violence programs have helped to inform her policy analysis that has led to coordinating public policy initiatives and organizing and planning spaces for survivor-led advocacy. Spanning over 25 years of dedicated service in the violence against women's movement, Dr. Henard's experience exemplifies her expertise in nonprofit management, organizational development, crisis management, education, training, fundraising and public policy. Dr. Henard has in helping organizations build capacity to respond to the needs of sexual violence in their communities and celebrate the extraordinary efforts of WOAR - Philadelphia Center against sexual violence; Whereas, teal is a color chosen to represent and raise awareness for sexual assault survivors. WOAR is encouraging individuals across the city to wear something teal to show your support for victims of sexual violence and for those working to end violence in our homes, community and nation; and

Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we, hereby recognize April 2025 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month and of WOAR - Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence; Further Resolved, that an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Dr. Indira Henard and staff in sincere gratitude for their tireless work. (Applause.)

Council will be at ease -- oh, the Chair recognizes Ms. Indira.

Good morning and thank you. On behalf of the Board of Directors at WOAR, our leadership team at WOAR and our staff at WOAR, thank you to the City Council of Philadelphia for this wonderful recognition. While we recognize and acknowledge sexual assault 365 days year, in April we take a special moment throughout the month of April to shine a light on an issue that very rarely gets shined on. What we know to be true is that sexual assault is not a single issue because we don't live single issue lives. In a season where there is a lot of uncertainty, when the need is increasing and the resources are decreasing, we are grateful to the City of Philadelphia, to the City Council of Philadelphia for standing with us as we continue to stand with survivors of sexual assault. Our work is sacred. It is unscripted. And for over 50 years, we have been providing hope and healing to survivors of sexual assault. So whether it happened 50 years ago or 50 days ago or 50 ago, WOAR is here to partner with you on your journey. What we also know is that as we continue to move forward, WOAR is going to be anchored in what we know to be true about sexual violence work, which is that there cannot be effective sexual assault services unless there's a direct response to racism and oppression. We've already heard that sexual violence impacts the most vulnerable communities in our society who set up the sharpest edges of our society. And in a season where sexual violence is intersected with so many other basic needs, we know that we cannot do this work alone. And so, we are grateful to all of you. We are grateful to this Council. We look forward to you on behalf of survivors of sexual assault. Our work has never been more important than it is now. Our work is under attack. And what we have been clear about is that survivors need a voice and we will continue to be that voice. Sexual assault should be the business of everyone. Sexual assault should be the business of everyone in terms of disrupting and ultimately eliminating sexual violence. I want to take a point of privilege to really acknowledge the amazing team behind me and the team that is in our offices and at home watching us. This is an incredible team. And I'd like to say that teamwork makes dream work and they make my job really, really easy. But when you have a staff who is committed to running 24/7 intersections, it definitely needs to be acknowledged. And so, I want them to know that I am so grateful for your partnership and for your leadership and we look forward to continuing to work with you all. Thank you. (Applause.)

Good morning. My name is Laquisha Anthony and I'm the Senior Manager of Advocacy here at WOAR. I'm deeply honored to accept this resolution on behalf of WOAR, the only rape crisis center in our community. My heartfelt gratitude goes out to City Council and City Councilmembers Ahmad and Landau for introducing this particular resolution and for recognizing the critical importance of Sexual for supporting survivors of sexual violence in our city. This resolution is more than just paper on the wor -- more than words on paper. It is a commitment to breaking silence, to standing with survivors and building community where safety, dignity and justice are not privileges but rights. It's a testament that work has not gone unnoticed and that the partnerships are not merely face value, that many of you have stood with us canvassing the streets when predators were on the loose. Many of you have called us up to ensure that we provided prevention education services to your Districts. Many of you have stood side-by-side with us, calling when the middle of the night. And we're grateful that we don't have to do this work alone. Sexual violence affects all people of all backgrounds. And yet too often survivors feel alone, unheard and unsupported. Our work at WOAR is to change that reality. Every day our advocates, counselors, volunteers stand beside survivors offering hope, resources and a path to healing. But we cannot do this alone. It takes all of us, elected officials, community leaders, residents to create real change. By passing this resolution, you are sending a powerful message that our City believes survivors, supports prevention efforts and is committed to ending sexual violence. To every survivor who story, sought help and continues to heal, you are not alone. And to everyone here today who stands with us in this mission, thank you. Your support strengthens our work and moves us closer to a future free of sexual violence. Together, we can make this future a reality. Thank you. (Applause.)

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

The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeantat-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. Will the Chief Clerk read the messages from the Mayor and any other communications in her possession.

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am transmitting for the consideration of your Honorable body a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 813 Union Street, 6130 Ellsworth Street, 4910 Kingsessing Avenue, 5417 Florence Avenue, 5425 Florence Avenue in the 3rd Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia and further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code; and A resolution authorizing Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 2323-31 North 5th Street, 2322 North Orkney Street, 2324, 2326, 2328 and 2330 North Orkney Street in the 7th Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia and further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code. And I am pleased to advise you that on April 2, 2025 I signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session on March 20, 2025: Bill No. 250100 and Bill No. 250147. Council President, there in my possession.

Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. I want to take a moment to acknowledge Councilmember Kendra Brooks.

Thank you, Council President. I have to leave on Council business so I ask to be excused and I vote aye on all bills and resolutions.

Leave is granted. Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Thomas.

Council President, colleagues, I apologize. I missed a lot of judges that were here earlier. I know some of them left. I want to start with the Honorable Tameka Lane, who's actually the Chair who put all of this together. So, Judge Lane, thank you so much. We also had Judge Thomas Street here, Judge Taylor Smith here, Judge Powell, Judge Phillips Thomas, Judge Padilla Wright and Judge Watson. So again, I just wanted to thank all of the judges who do great work with our juveniles and acknowledge their presence here today. (Applause.)

Thank you very much, Member Thomas. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Dr. Anthony Phillips.

Good morning. Thank you, Council President. I have one privileged resolution and two privileged resolutions -- my gosh. One privileged resolution and two privileged resolutions on your behalf today.

Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the privileged resolutions.

A privileged resolution honoring the United States Senator Cory Booker for his courageous and historic 25-hour Senate floor speech, standing in defense of America's core democratic principles and Constitutional values, while surpassing the previous 24 hour 18 minute record set by Senator Strom Thurmond in opposition to the Civil Rights Act.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution recognizing the Active People, Healthy Nation Initiative, a national effort led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Heart Association and reaffirming the City of Philadelphia's commitment to championing policies, programs and investments that promote physical activity, improve public health, especially for children, and ensure equitable access to recreation for all residents. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution honoring, recognizing and celebrating the Omicron Delta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. for 40 years of service and impact in the City of Philadelphia.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. Chair recognizes Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson.

Good morning, Council President. Good morning, colleagues. Today I offer one bill and two non-privileged resolutions on your behalf.

Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions.

A non-privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia Land Bank to dispose of 1911 Mountain Street located in the 2nd Councilmanic District in accordance with the terms of Chapter 16-700 of The Philadelphia Code.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.

I'm not finished reading the titles, Council President. A non-privileged resolution calling on the Trump Administration and the Department of Health and Human Services to preserve funding and administrative support for Head Start, prevent program disruptions and protect access to early childhood education for low-income families.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.

And a non-privileged resolution calling on the Trump Administration to reverse the termination of an Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, grant awarded to the City of Philadelphia to support efforts to address flooding in Eastwick, a community that has been disproportionately impacted by environmental injustice and hardships.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Isaiah Thomas.

Good morning, Council President again. Good morning, colleagues -- oh no, Council President, I'm sorry. Three resolutions. Thank you, Council President.

Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions.

A privileged resolution honoring the Philadelphia Juvenile Justice Center School celebrating its 20th bi-annual "Carpe Diem" honoring all the judges and students who participate in this remarkable and beneficial event.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Education to hold hearings investigating the current state of higher education as this pillar of the Philadelphia economy and cultural landscape undergoes generational change.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution honoring and recognizing the All-Star Labor Classic and Philadelphia's Organized Labor for 37 years of charitable service to students and the community.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.

Good morning, Council President. Today I have one privileged resolution and one bill.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the bill and resolution.

An ordinance amending Section 14-533 of The Philadelphia Code, ("/MIN, Mixed Income Neighborhoods Overlay District") to exempt from certain requirements of that Section residential development under programs designed to create affordable home ownership, which programs mandate deed restrictions and agreements establishing ongoing affordability requirements, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 813 Union Street, 6130 Ellsworth Street, 4910 Kingsessing Avenue, 5417 Florence Avenue, 5425 Florence Avenue in the 3rd Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia and further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr.

Thank you, Mr. President. Before I introduce those two non-privileged resolutions, the author of the Charter change for the Citizens Police Oversight Commission is here, Samantha -Judge, Her Honor, Samantha Williams. Can we recognize her? (Applause.)

Two non-privileged resolutions today, Mr. President.

Thank you very much. Could you please read the titles of the non-privileged resolutions.

A non-privileged resolution renaming the 5700 block of West Oxford Street "Fred Rosenfeld Way" to honor and celebrate the life and legacy of Frederick C. Rosenfeld for his outstanding contributions to youth sports in Philadelphia. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council.

And a non-privileged resolution appointing Ericka Stewart to the Citizens Police Oversight Commission.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. And if I didn't make this acknowledgement, I will be remiss. And I thank Councilman Curtis Jones for his leadership for inspiring and empowering, but most importantly, giving an opportunity to welcome back one of his mentees, the Honorable Judge Samantha -let's give her a round of applause -- and sister of Councilwoman Jamie Gauthier. Could you stand please? (Applause.)

Welcome back to our chambers. It's good to see you, putting in that hard work on this very same floor. So great job, Councilmember Jones. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Landau.

Good morning, Council President, colleagues and the public. I have three privileged resolutions and one non-privileged resolution on your behalf.

Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions.

A privileged resolution recognizing April 2025 as Fair Housing Month in the City of Philadelphia and celebrating the passage of the Fair Housing Act of 1968.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution recognizing April as Arab American Heritage Month and celebrating the heritage and culture of Arab Americans in Philadelphia.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution declaring April 4, 2025 as Women in Tech Day in the City of Philadelphia and recognizing the importance of women in technology, emphasizing their contributions, promoting STEM education and careers for women and girls and expanding gender equity in the technology field.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.

Thank you, Council President. Today I offer one bill, one privileged resolution -

One more.

I'm sorry.

That's okay. A privileged resolution declaring April 2025 as National Poetry Month in the City of Philadelphia and recognizing the profound impact of poetry on Philadelphia's cultural, educational and social landscape.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilmember Quetcy Lozada.

Thank you, Council President. Today I offer one bill, one privileged resolution and one non-privileged resolution.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions.

An ordinance amending Chapter 9-600 of The Philadelphia Code (entitled "Service and Other Businesses") add business hour restrictions in the 1st, 7th and 8th Councilmanic Districts, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

And a non-privileged resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority deeds conveying fee simple title to 2323-31 North 5th Street, 2322, 2324, 2326, 2328 and 2330 North Orkney Street in the 7th Councilmanic District of the City of Philadelphia and further authorizing the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority to transfer to the Philadelphia Land Bank fee simple title to such properties pursuant to Section 16-405 of The Philadelphia Code.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council.

And a privileged resolution recognizing April as National Donate Life Month in the City of Philadelphia and honoring the lifesaving impact of organ, eye and tissue donation, as well as celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Gift of Life Donor Program.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.

Thank you, Mr. President. Today I offer one non-privileged resolution.

Thank you very much. Would the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolution.

A non-privileged resolution requesting the Mayor to return to Council Bill No. 240427-AA, entitled "Amending Section 14-305 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Nonconformities,' by providing further provisions on changes from nonconforming uses;" all under certain terms and conditions for the purpose of reconsideration by the Council of the vote by which said bill passed Council.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at the next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Rourke.

Thank you, Mr. President. I want to simply say that I booed earlier at the mere mention of a racist name, Senator Strom Thurmond. And I thank you for what you introduced today related to what Senator Cory Booker did in being a true statesman in the last week. Just wanted to clarify that for the record. That having been said, I have one privileged and one non-privileged resolution to introduce as well as a privileged resolution to introduce on behalf of Minority Leader Brooks. Thank you, sir.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the titles of the resolutions.

A privileged resolution recognizing April 2025 as Autism Acceptance Month in the City of Philadelphia and commending the work of advocates who are people living with autism and who are breaking down barriers to fully inclusive society.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a privileged resolution celebrating the launch of Philadelphia Fair Lease on the city of Philadelphia's Landlord Gateway.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar.

And a non-privileged resolution recognizing the central role of labor organizing and labor unions in the history of Philadelphia, their ongoing importance to the well-being of working class families and condemning the Trump Administration's continued pursuit of anti-labor and anti-worker policies.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Mike Driscoll.

Morning, Mr. President. I have one privileged resolution for today's consideration.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk, please read the title of the resolution.

A privileged resolution honoring and congratulating the Father Judge High School Boys' Basketball Team for winning the 2025 PIAA 6A championship.

This resolution will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember O'Neill.

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill co-introduced by Councilman Driscoll, signed by several members of Council.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the bill.

An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by revising the One Year Rule, which limits the filing of permit applications that are substantially similar to a prior application with respect to which an appeal to the Zoning Board of Adjustment has been denied or dismissed; and making related changes, all under certain terms and conditions.

This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Bass.

Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one resolution on your behalf.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolution.

A non-privileged resolution responding to the U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Scott Turner's ill-informed understanding of public housing development and call for deregulation by reinforcing the importance of the continued preservation of local control over housing development decisions to ensure development aligns with the needs and desires of our communities, and calling on Turner to preserve the Choice Neighborhood Initiatives Program which enables PHA to preserve and expand its affordable housing stock.

This resolution will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for consideration at our next session of Council. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad.

Thank you, Council President. I have one non-privileged resolution on your behalf.

Thank you very much. Will the Chief Clerk please read the title of the resolution.

A non-privileged resolution demanding the Trump Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to restore the funding that was cut for programs supporting Pennsylvania food banks and schools assessing local produce, which will endanger food security for vulnerable children and families in Philadelphia and further deepening the crisis of hunger in the City.

Thank you very much. There being no reports from committees today, the Chair now recognizes Councilmember for a motion regarding special business.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit consideration for special business at this time. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of special business at this time. All those in favor of the motion will signify by say aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it and the Chair recognizes Councilmember Young for a motion regarding a resolution introduced today to recall Bill No. 240427-AA.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move to suspend the rules to allow consideration of the resolution today. (Duly seconded.)

It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit the consideration of the resolution. At this time, all those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries. The Chair recognizes again Councilmember Jeffrey Jay Young.

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

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. The motion carries and the resolution is adopted. Will the Clerk please read the letter from the Mayor.

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am returning herewith, as requested by your resolution adopted today, Bill No. 240427-AA, entitled "Amending Section 14-305, of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Nonconformities' by providing further provisions on changes from nonconforming uses; all under certain terms and conditions" for the purpose of reconsideration by the Council of the vote by which said bill passed Council. COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON: The Chair recognizes Councilmember Young for a motion that Council reconsider the vote by which Bill No. 240427-AA was passed.

So moved, Mr. President. (Duly seconded.)

All those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. (Aye.)

Those opposed? (No response.)

The ayes have it. A majority of all members having voted in the affirmative, the motion carries. And a vote by which Bill No. 240427-AA was passed has been reconsidered. And the bill will be placed on our Second 2ND READING Reading and Final Passage Calendars for our next session of Council. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilmember Gilmore Richardson for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars.

Thank you, Mr. President. The following bills and resolutions are being called up from the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: Nos. 250168 and 250277. The following bills and resolutions on the Calendar are being held: 250250, 250251, 250252, 250253, 250254, 240333 and 240665.

Thank you. Before considering these bills and resolutions, we will consider public comment as follows: Your public comment must concern matters on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars for possible action at today's Council session. All speakers must sign up in order to testify. If you have not already signed up for today's session, please do so now by giving your name to Ms. Hasson at the table outside the rails to my left. Once you have signed up, you will be called in the order in which your name appears on a signup sheet. Under ideal circumstances, public commenters each will have three minutes to speak. However, this time limit may vary from session-to-session. Today the time limit will be two minutes. In order to be fair to all those wishing to speak, I intend to hold faithfully to the two-minute limit. When you begin speaking, you will see a green light on the podium. When there are 30 seconds remaining to your time, the light will turn yellow, which is your reminder to conclude your remarks. Once two minutes have passed, the light will turn red and the Sergeant-at-Arms will disconnect the microphone. At that point, please yield the podium to the next speaker if you have not already done so. I also reserve the right pursuant to our rules of Council to limit repetitious comments with the same subject matter. I will now ask the Chief Clerk to please read the name of our first speaker.

We have Emily Grace Reese. May Kate Perez, Jeremy Blatstein, Sterling Johnson and Laura Coley also make their way to the podium. Emily Grace Reese, Kate Perez, Jeremy Blatstein, Sterling Johnson, Laura Coley. (Witnesses approached podium.)

I'm Kate Perez. And recognizing Arab American Month gives us more opportunities to connect and analyze the ways in which our foreign policies affect the Arab worlds and the descendants in our country. It's especially important now as our government and media try to silence Arab stories, and Palestinians in Philadelphia have to fight to even get acknowledgement, as the Mayor's office denied a Palestinian flagraising. ICE agents are disappearing students that protest their school's genocide investments, primarily Arab students without charges, kidnapping Mahmoud Khalil to shutter free speech and First Amendment retaliation. We should be working to abolish ICE and not expand their holding cells in our city. Heritage months gives us a chance to learn what the oppressors are trying to silence. The IOF that we give a minimum of $3.8 billion a year since 2019 targets Palestinian journalists on the ground, regularly shuttering Internet access and media offices, killing more than 232 journalists and media workers since October '23 when compared to the 69 journalists killed in World War I and II. The IOF actually released a hit list and murdered 23-year-old journalist Hossam Shabbat on March 24 who wrote his last words in anticipation of his targeting. I ask you now, do not stop speaking about Gaza. Do not let the world look away. Keep fighting. Keep telling our stories until Palestine is free. Yesterday 15 health care workers were discovered executed in a mass grave in Rafah, some handcuffed and shot in the chest with the IOF killing more than 480 aid workers in less than two years. Like Ahmad said, silence is violence and a genocide ignored is a genocide denied. Repression we send abroad turns inward, where a U.S. Senator can call a kafir that represents Palestinian fishing nets fields of weeds and historic trade routes a terrorist rag. Where students in Philly are asked to remove them, our projects are taken down and teachers will dock students for wearing Sudanese flags, mistaking Arabic lettering as a threat. Today they're going to be voting on a joint resolution of disapproval. You should be calling your Senators to support this. Arms embargo now. Free Palestine. (Applause.)

Hello, City Council. My name is Jeremy Blatstein. I'm here in support of Bill No. 250277 to move land out of the Land Bank. But we're going to talk about another hypothetical situation. We're going to talk about our RCOs. What if the head of the RCO doesn't live in the district or they live in that neighborhood? We ran into a residency issue this week with a judge that got thrown off the ballot because he didn't live technically in Philadelphia. He lived in Bala Cynwyd. So what happens if the RCO leader is your aunt or your sister or your mother and maybe so happens to work on your staff. What happens then? Who's holding you guys accountable? How is the RCO process working? That needs to be looked at, right, because there's a clear conflict of interest when it comes to these RCO groups and whether or not -- and shout-out to Councilwoman Bass with requiring residency requirements for RCOs. It's a great thing that needs to happen, right. There needs to be better, clear instructions for what these are RCOs are able to do -

Mr. Blatstein, give me some more about the Land Bank and the RCO process.

Oh, it's very much attached to the Land Bank, right, because you're involving these RCOs to move the land and these RCOs are not holding meetings. And again, what happens if a former member of your staff that's not holding a meeting, who's supposed to be holding this up, right. So this is just something to think about. The last thing we're talking about today is SEPTA. Thank you, Councilman O'Rourke, right. SEPTA is very important to be funded. Let's get these free rides back. Thanks for bringing that up last week. I think Mayor Parker is going to use that as a strong arm and figure out how to get this funded. Also, let's ride the ride. Raise your hand if you rode SEPTA in the last week. No hands for members of City Council, right. So each of you have a piece of that $9 million. So if you're saying let's fund that whole piece of it from the Key Advantage, let's start using it at least once a week, right. So let's ride the ride. And let's grow Philly to 2 Millie. Thank you.

Thank you.

We have Sterling Johnson, Laura Coley. May Aaron Befonte, Denise Basile, Jenna Lam, Colleen Ott and Calan Malyn Wilson also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Hello, Councilpeople. Sterling Johnson from the Philadelphia Community Land Trust. Just here testifying against Ordinance 240665. I think there have been discussions about it. It needs to be narrowly tailored. I think I was also looking for the Fair Housing Month resolution that was put forth. And I see all these issues as coming together. And I will say for me the balance of it is that street medicine isn't really the answer. We need health care and housing. That's we need to be focusing on. And coming down from D.C., I just went yesterday, I was just thinking about the fact that it needs -- there are cuts to HIV research and treatment and there have to be ways to make that a part of our current budget. For me, treatment is prevention. Of a person living with HIV, they give you medication immediately. So treatment is prevention. If you're undetectable, you cannot pass it on. I do believe there is a similar viewpoint with treatment of substance use disorders. Even I, 15 years in recovery, different types of recovery, using at times, I recently was on Naltrexone. It helps with cravings, helps with drug use, alcohol. It's important to treat people as soon as possible. It needs to be available as soon as possible. I just wanted to say that treatment is prevention. Hold the hospitals and treatment centers accountable. I hope that is happening. The new person at DBH needs to be held accountable. They should be answering your questions. That's all. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you.

Good morning. My name is Reverend Laura Coley. I'll be speaking in favor of Bill 25277. I'm a member of POWER Interfaith, 15-year resident of the Port Richmond neighborhood in District 1 and the Pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia in District 2. I'm deeply concerned about the rising rent costs, property taxes and increased displacement in our city. I've had conversations with dozens of people in my congregation and they are also concerned. I'm specifically concerned about the strains on our City budget and the risk that the burden of these shortfalls will be placed on Philadelphian renters and homeowners. We know that COVID relief money has run out. We know the potential federal funding cuts from the current presidential administration loom on the horizon -

Excuse me, ma'am. I just want to ask a question. Could you tie it into the actual bill that's related to the 4th District Land Bank, the actual bill that's coming out the Land Bank with housing, if you can so please.

Yes. So I am fearful that after we already witnessed serious property tax increases across the city in 2025, especially in Black and Brown neighborhoods, that hard-working Philadelphians will have to shoulder these budget restraints while large businesses and developers are offered a break. I don't want Philadelphia to be a rich man's playground. I don't want my 22-year-old CCP nephew to have to live in a city apartment that's both wildly expensive and broken down. I do not want my LGBT congregants who have lived in Center City since the 1980s because the suburbs would not take them in to now have to relocate because of skyrocketing costs. I do not want my 3-yearold daughter to learn that big developers have more rights in their neighborhood where she was born than she does. We want to partner with Councilmember Squilla and Councilmember Johnson to lift up the voices of Philadelphian residents, and we invite you to join with us for town halls coming up in the beginning of May. (Applause.)

Good morning.

Good morning.

My name is Aaron, and I'm a proud member of POWER Interfaith representing Arch Street United Methodist Church in Councilmember Mark Squilla's District. I'm deeply concerned about the rising rent costs, property taxes and increased displacement in our city. I've had conversations with dozens of people in my congregation and neighborhood, and they're concerned too. I stand before you today not just as an advocate, but as someone whose life has been profoundly shaped by Philadelphia's housing crisis, terrified that the lifeline my family found has vanished for those who need it the most. When my family immigrated here from Italy, I was just 9 years old. My earliest memories of the city are filled with both hope and uncertainty. We were lucky. My aunt opened her home to us when we had nowhere else to go, but I remember the tremor in my parents' voices as they stressed over bills, the exhaustion on my mother's eyes after working multiple jobs and the crushing silence of months without my father while he struggled for his visa oceans away. Without that family safety net, I don't know how we would have survived. Later Arch Street United Methodist Church welcomed us with open arms, offering the North Philly Parish as a temporary home at a rate that we could afford. It felt like a miracle. For the first time in my life, my parents could breathe just a little. They still work relentlessly, but we had a roof over our heads that didn't feel temporary. Yet as a kid, I carried a quiet shame. When friends asked me where I lived, I changed the subject. I didn't want them to know what we didn't what I thought was a real home. Everything changed when Habitat for Humanity gave us the keys to our own house. I'll never forget the look on my mother's face; pride, relief, disbelief. For me it was more than just four walls and a door. It was dignity. It was belonging. It meant my parents could finally focus on us, not just survival. It meant I could invite friends over without embarrassment. That home didn't shelter us. It transformed us. But today that kind of opportunity is vanishing. I talked to neighbors in our congregation who are terrified, seniors on fixed incomes watching rent and property taxes eat their savings, parents working three jobs just to keep up with rent, young people who given up on ever owning a home. The stability that saved my family now seems like a lifeline only available to a lucky few. And if we don't act, entire communities will be priced out of their own futures. We cannot let displacement be Philadelphia's next epidemic. Working class families, immigrants and lifelong residents still deserve a place in the city. Housing isn't just a structure. It's a foundation for everything else, for strong families, for future of our kids and our communities that thrive. Councilmember Squilla, we need your leadership. We want to partner with you and try to solve these problems. We'll be hosting a town hall in your District May 15, and we hope that you'll join us to begin this partnership. Thank you. (Applause.)

We have Denise Basile, Jenna Lam, Colleen Ott, Calan Malyn Wilson. And may Amaris Hernandez and Janet Green also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Hi, everyone. My name is Jenna Lam. Thank you so much for having me. I'm part of POWER Interfaith representing Northeast in Councilmember Driscoll's District. I'm deeply concerned about the rising rent costs, property tax, mortgages and utility bills and increasing displacement in our city. I've had conversations with multiple people in my congregation neighborhood and they're concerned too. I'm concerned because I work multiple jobs just to pay for rent to live by and I'm lucky to just even go out and enjoy life. But paying bills month-by-month is the necessities. Sometimes my days are so long from 12 to 14 hours that I sleep my car. I am lucky and privileged to have a car to sleep in, but that should not be the case. I should enjoy the home I live in with my family. And so, I'm here because I cannot lie through my teeth as I am a newly licensed real estate agent. But I cannot take my clients with homes and lie with my teeth and say they can afford the cost, knowing that deposits, closing costs, escrow, renovations cost so much like a mortgage payment as well. Being born and raised in Philadelphia and wanting to have my community members own homes here is really disheartening to know that we cannot afford the mortgages and homes, knowing that people from other cities, D.C., New York, California can come here and take over our homes. So what is quality of living if we cannot even grow our generations here. I don't want to see another generation being house poor. So I ask for Councilman Driscoll to come here and have a town house with us so hopefully we see a change. Thank you all so much. (Applause.)

Hey, Colleen.

I have my accessibility device with me. I just need it pointed down. Hey, Yat. What's up?

What's up.

My name is Colleen. I am the autistic founder of the -- okay. My name is Colleen Ott. I'm the autistic founder of: The Autistic Art Coalition in Philadelphia started because I got word that there was an individual who was being believed for having autism. So in true Philadelphia form, I said, oh, hell no. And created the AACOP for all walks of life as it comes to the autistic, neurodivergent and disabled communities of the Delaware Valley of Philadelphia. The following artist could not be here today so I wanted to share with you her words: Hello. My name is Emily Grace Reese. I am a graduate student, a member of the autistic community and a poet. When I was diagnosed with autism in 12th grade, I thought we needed awareness, but I have since learned that acceptance is far more important. In college as a teenager, I saw many attitudes towards disability. My advisor was a shining example of acceptance, eager to teach me and learn from me. One psychology professor was aware of autism but unwilling to accept it. He said I was not smart enough to pass his class and did as little as possible to accommodate me. My advisor knew that differences are not always deficits. As proof of this, I would like to share a poem with you. This is an invitation. Come a little closer, ask a question or to discover for yourself I'm not so different from you. Do you remember being young when your joy would take hold, your whole body would wiggle, when did that grow cold, my joy still runs hot. You see me rock in my seat because I need a way to burn off the heat. Looking off to the side helps me get what you mean, what you find in the eyes always remains for me unseen. I can force my gaze to behave this way, but my chest then gets tight and I lose what you say. Some think of me like a child, with it all still by my side. But wasn't love like a child once a source of great pride. The journey towards acceptance each generation longs to complete, would be no struggle at all if placed at the children's feet. I have the heart of a child, but my mind has grown wise. This should make me an asset. Why does it come as a surprise. It's a feeling we all know I want to be understood. But when I open my mouth, things don't come out as they should. I know you can relate. It's the human condition. But we can ease the pain. We are in the perfect position. I also wanted to share with you the words of our autistic elder from the boomer generation, Ms. Denise Basile, who also could not make it today: If there would be more acceptance with treating people like me with respect, especially those who are of my generation who are autistic. Bullying still feels the same no matter what generation you are from. I am in my early 60s. Just because I do not do things like everyone else, I am still a person. And I'm Jim from Generation X. And I'm just saying thank you for everything. (Applause.)

Just one second, ma'am. Colleen, Ms. Ott. Colleen, Ms. Ott. I just want to say, keep up the good work. Appreciate your advocacy around autism. Thank you very much. (Applause.)

My name is Calan Wilson. Good morning, everyone. Thank you. Thank you, President. Thank you, Councilmembers. I'm really excited to be here for my first time. So I'm a woman in tech. Shout-out, Councilwoman Rue. Temple alum, artist and founder of a business-friendly startup here in Philly called 69&Sunny. I'm the titleholder of International Grand Cleo Award's winner of Innovation and Design Excellence. Since 1959, there have only been two Black women recipients of this prestigious honor, Doja Cat and I. (Applause.)

Thank you, thank you. As an autoimmune Type I diabetic Black woman and representative of the invisible leaders, I believe my life is a poem and it's really ironic. Today I was asked to make a public comment for National Poetry Month. And as a lover of language, a new author of a readaloud book, a storyteller, wife, singer and songwriter and niece of a legendary poet -- shout-out, Uncle Micky -- I'm here to say that the art of sharing your words deserves a yearlong tribute, not just a month. I'd love to share with you the words that I wrote after my keynote address to Creative Philadelphia and the Night Economy this past Monday, if you don't mind: The future of us, a daydream of an artist led economy in Philadelphia. It's 69 and sunny, a weather text came from Michelle. I asked for bliss here and this is true bliss I can tell. Once the artist started making their millions, they shared their secrets out loud. Chaos slowed down. We raised our prices and spent time with one another. No one even remembers our shared feelings of hell. And we painted outside on tapestries and flowers. We gave teenagers the paint brushes too. Quartets started showing up in the courtyards and we played Four Square for hours me and you. We taught Gen Z about goosebumps. In the parks we read choose your own adventure, and it's only been a few days since, since 82-year-old Ms. L grabbed both my hands encouraging and said, Kallan, you did so well. I wish I knew you when I was younger. We needed a teacher like you. Then please keep teaching for the future of us. It's not an if but a when. Thank you. (Applause.)

We have Amaris Hernandez, Janet Green. May Jude Husein, Carlyn Crawley, Tony Alford and Teresa Alexander also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good morning. I want to thank Council for having me here today in session to talk about two things. I'm very passionate about women empowerment and technology. My name is Amaris Hernandez and I was born and raised in this beautiful city, and I've been a tech professional for over 23 years. When I was in the 7th grade, I had the opportunity to participate in a program at Drexel University, which was designed to expose kids from lower-income communities to STEM. It was through this program that the doors for my career were opened. After high school, Central 259, I went on to pursue my undergraduate at Drexel for Information Technology. In college, I was often the only female in most of my classes, sometimes even the only minority. Through my career, I have navigated working in male-dominated space, but never had a community of people that looked like me in my field. A year ago today right in this building in the law library through the support of Councilman Landau and the support of Luz Colon in the Mayor's office, we were able to launch Latinas in Tech Philly Chapter on International Women's Day. It was an honor to be part of a community, creating a community that I didn't have when I was navigating my early career. In the last year, LIT Philly has hosted over a dozen events, online workshops on topics like AI, building websites, career development and navigating tech layoffs. We have partnered with other amazing tech organizations in the city, like One PHL, Trabaja, Brazilian Coders, Black Girls Code. We've been able to partner with great companies in the area like Comcast, Vanguard and JP Morgan. And we were honored to receive a Community Cultivator Award at 1PHL City Innovation Awards. We have built a community over 75 local Latinas currently working or interested in the tech industry and hundreds of allies in the industry, all in one year. None of this would be possible without the support in the room. On a personal note, I just want to shout out Quetcy Lozada. She was a mentor of mine growing up. As a Latina, my demographic represents just 2% of the tech industry. While I could stand here and give you stats, the disparities in pay and opportunities for women in tech, I implore you to seek out that research and partner with community organizations to bring much-needed programs like the one that I was provided to enter the field. Celebrating a Woman in Tech Day is more about than recognizing women that are currently in tech. It is about supporting and investing in future generations, providing economic growth opportunities for women and families in the city and becoming a world-class city that recognizes that women are needed to ensure that the future of tech is inclusive and represents everyone. Thank you. (Applause.)

Hello. My name is Janet Green. I'm a member of POWER Interfaith, and I'm also a member of the West Philadelphia Mennonite Fellowship. I'm here today as an aging human being. And I think we're all aging, but we don't know it until it's too late. And I want to just give you some numbers as you're thinking about how to go forward with the housing issues that face this Council. I wanted to first of -the first number is that I'm 78, years old, and I've been taking care of my 80-year-old husband for 16 years. He's been disabled. He's on his third cancer. He's got a rare blood cancer, and the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania has a special treatment program that's here. And that's one reason why we moved to Philadelphia six years ago. The other reason, that is, our daughter lived here. She went to Drexel as a graduate student and she lived in West Philadelphia for more than 10 years, including a few of the years after we arrived. The rents were so high that she had to leave. So as we've gotten more frail, we have less support from her and her family as they live further away. The other number that I think is important is that my husband's medicine cost $16,000 a month. We don't have to pay that because every year we apply to get some help from a foundation that helps support that, but we never know from one year to the next if that money will be available. The other number that I think is important is that although we own our condo, our condo home owners association payments were raised by $600 a month in the last couple of years. So that's an 81% increase. We are and I and my neighbors are terrified. So I hope that you will think about this as you think about the kind of housing that's needed in our city. Thank you. (Applause.)

Good morning. I'm here instead of Jude Husein. Jude had to leave. Her boss is Senator Haywood. When Senator Haywood leaves, she leaves. So my name is Marwan Kreidie. I'm Executive Director of the Philadelphia Arab American Development Corp. And I'm really honored that the City of Philadelphia has chosen to honor our community. We're a really important part of Philadelphia, as is every other group. I mean, we're all here. We make up the part of the mosaic that is our city. I could go over -- you guys wrote a really nice resolution or proclamation. I'm not going to go over everything, but we're all over the city. Where everything, from Uber drivers to heads of unions or -- Danny Bauder is Arab American if you know, AFL's CEO. We are researchers, we're Uber drivers, we're everywhere. We're small business people. Were big business people. So thank you very much. I just want to do two quick things and say it's not a good year for our community. We're collectively suffering through the trauma of the genocide of Gaza. It affects every one of us. I know it affects a lot of you too. So please think of us when we do that. The other thing is with that orange-faced person in D.C. we are in the front line against fascism. They're picking up our community members as they are other people throughout the city. Please, City Council, we want you to have our backs. We need you to have our backs. We need the City to have our backs. So thank you again. We're honored, but this is a commitment that we all should share to protect each other in these really, really dangerous times. Thank you. (Applause.)

Good morning. Carlyn Crawley. I am here not as a staffer today, but I'm actually welcoming my -- both of my parents are here, but my father received -- come on up, Pop -- he received his kidney donation on December 14 of last year -(Applause.)

-- and we are so excited. So I'm here as a proud and grateful daughter today because I really watched him fight for his health. And this is his first City Council meeting, so I'm going to yield my time so he can give his remarks.

Thanks, Carlyn. Good morning. The Donate Life Month Program, I'd like to quickly thank Councilwoman Lozada and her staff for introducing this legislation. On 14 December, I did receive my kidney. Based on my blood type, the average wait time for a kidney transplant is six to eight years. But through the various donor programs that I signed up for, I was able to receive my kidney transplant in three-and-a-half years. This allowed me to go ahead and continue with life and continue to contribute to society. I spent prior to getting the transplant 12 hours a week, three nights, fourhour sessions receiving dialysis treatments. And I did that for three-and-a-half years. I was very fortunate to be able to sign up for and be aware of the various donor programs that are out there. And so, I would just like to take the opportunity to thank the team for the legislation being introduced and to stress the importance of being an organ donor going forward. So thank you very much. (Applause.)

We have Antonia Alford, Teresa Alexander, Freeway, Hadeel AlHubaishi and Jacob Zychick also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good morning. My name is Antonia Alford. I'm here with Gift of Life as part of the awareness for Donate Life Month for April 2025. My personal story, I have a brother who had a liver transplant 37 years ago, we donated my mother who passed away in 2021. So I'm a current City employee 29 years. My brother is also a sanitation worker of eight and a half years. And to see him thrive in his personal life and through Gift of Life, we appreciate the whole Gift of Life organization and donate life. Thank you. (Applause.)

Good morning, everyone. My name is Teresa Alexander and I'm here with the Gift of Life recognizing April as National Donor Life Month. National Donor Life is an opportunity to help increase importance of organ tissue donor awareness activity and more people need to register to be donors. Nearly 5000 adults and children are currently waiting for lifesaving transplants with our community. And I was one of those people. You see, I had a heart transplant in 2018 and I only had to wait four days for my heart. And if you know me, you know I'm all about family. And because I received my heart from my donor, I get to spend time with my three grandchildren, 10-year-old twins and a 3-year-old. And if I didn't get my heart transplant, I wouldn't be here today. So I'm so thankful for the Good for Life and for the resolution being passed. Because of my donor, I get to go to different places and speak to people about becoming organ and tissue donors which is what we really need. I found out that over 103,000 people are waiting on the transplant list and 17 people die a day. And we can do something about that if we register as organ donors and tissue donors. But in closing, I'd like to thank Councilperson Lozada for your support and the most important cause that I believe we have right now. Thank you very much. (Applause.)

Hi, everyone. I'm Charlita Davis. And I stand before you today in support of Councilmember Quetcy Lozada's resolution recognizing April as National Donate Life Month in the City of Philadelphia. I also stand here as a member of the Gift of Life Community Advisory Board and a double transplant recipient, having received both a liver and kidney transplant. I am personally touched by the significance of today's recognition. A little bit of my story is on January 28th and 29th, which is 423 days ago, my life changed forever. Those dates marked a turning point when I received a liver transplant on January 28th and a kidney transplant on January 29th, both of which were necessary due to my struggle with polycystic liver and kidney disease. Those days are forever etched in my memory, marking a turning point and the beginning of a new chapter. The transplants weren't just a medical procedure. It was a gift of life, a fresh start and the end of a long and challenging journey. I am deeply grateful to the medical team at Jefferson Hospital for me and for the selfless efforts of the donor who gave me a chance to rebuild my health. I thank God every single day for the incredible blessing of a second chance at life. While the journey hasn't always been easy, it has been one of growth, strength and immense gratitude. Each day has been a reminder of how precious life is and I cherish every small moment. Over the last 14 months, I've learned the true meaning of resilience, patience and the importance of taking care of my body. Throughout this journey, Proverbs 3:5-6 has been a guiding light for me. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding, but in all thy ways. Acknowledge him and he will direct your paths. This verse has helped sustain me, especially during the toughest moments, reminding me to trust God's plan even when the road seemed uncertain. It has been a constant source of strength and reassurance, helping me navigate the challenges of faith and hope. I feel incredibly fortunate to live a fuller, healthier life, and I'm forever grateful for this, for my family, my boss and mentor Councilman Curtis Jones Jr., my village and the generous donor whose gift I carry with me each day. Thank you, Councilmember Lozada, for the resolution recognizing the importance of organ donation and for honoring the Gift of Life. (Applause.)

Good morning, everyone. Dear, Councilmembers, honored guests and all Philadelphia community, I stand here as we honor Arab American Heritage Month. My name is Hadeel AlHubaishi. I'm originally from Yemen. And as Senior Manager of Programs and Engagement, I'm proud to represent (inaudible) of culture organization that is deeply committed to promoting Arab arts, language and culture right here in Philadelphia. Thank you, Councilwoman Landau, and your recognition for Arab American Heritage Month and National Poetry Month. Philadelphia has been long a city of diversity, a place where culture meets, where histories intertwine and where communities thrive by sharing rich traditions. Arab Americans have been an integral part of this tapestry, contributing to the City's cultural, economic and civic life for generations, from scholars to artists to community leaders to businessmen. They all shaped Philadelphia in ways that continue to inspire. At (inaudible) we believe that the power of the arts that bridge cultures and foster understanding and amplify our voices and create spaces where everyone can engage in-depth with the beauty of our culture. This month is not just about recognition. It's about reaffirming the values that unite us, inclusion, resilience and culture pride. It's about telling our stories in our own terms, breaking stereotypes and making sure that Arab Americans in all our diversity are seen, heard and celebrated. We also take a moment to honor National Poetry Month, the power of words in connecting us to one another, bridge between cultures and explore our shared humanities as we voice our deepest emotions, stories and struggles. With that, I would like to invite you all to our upcoming event April 22nd for open mic poetry followed by a reading with the poet (inaudible) as one of his contributions to Arab American literature. As we celebrate Arab American Heritage Month and National Poetry Month, let us commit to learning from one another, supporting organizations that champion culture education and ensuring that every Philadelphian's sense of belonging. Thank you to the City of Philadelphia and thank you all and (inaudible). (Applause.)

We have Freeway, Jacob Zychick, David Alexander Jenkins. May Veronica Renee Lee, Dawn Fassett, Raymond Johnson and Wanda Walker also make their way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Good morning, everybody. Good morning, Councilmembers. Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. I'm here in favor of the resolution to make April Donate Life Month. I'm Leslie Pridgen, publicly known as Philadelphia Freeway. I'm the founder of Freedom Thinkers Academy, which is music, health, education and culture. I'm a Muslim. I'm a kidney transplant recipient and I'm a donor dad. (Applause.)

I'll share a little bit of my story. September 15, 2015 I was diagnosed with end-stage renal failure. The next day, they cut my chest open. They put a Permacath in my chest. I did dialysis from September 16, 2015 all the way to February 5, 2019 when I received my gift of life, I received my new kidney, which was amazing for me. (Applause.)

I was able to continue my career. I started the Foundation Freedom Thinkers Academy, which is music, health, education and culture. So I travel the world spreading awareness about kidney health, preaching prevention so people don't get to the place I was at when I needed to get a kidney transplant. So I take you to 2020. September 2020 my daughter Harmony was diagnosed with cancer. October of 2020 my son Jihad passed away when we was in a hospital and the doctors told us that he was no longer going to survive. Someone approached me and they said, listen, I know it's a crucial, critical moment for you right now, but your son can save lives. And being as though I know what it feels like to wait for a lifesustaining organ, it was no choice for me and my family to let him be an organ donor, and he saved four lives. Two people got his kidneys, one person got his lung, one person got his liver, and it's a blessing. Transplantation and organ donation saved my life and it can save plenty more lives. So it's a blessing that this is introduced and God-willing, we continue to fight the good fight. Thank you. (Applause.)

Good morning, Mr. President, members, guests of the chamber. David Alexander Jenkins. I rise to address Resolution 250277, introduced by Councilmember Jones. With the words of those who have addressed the privileged resolution before the body, enshrining the importance of poetry in our great city, I lean on the work of Philadelphia's second Poet Laureate Frank Sherlock, who focuses in the city on service by remembering the who before we address the what. You see, as we again in mundane regularity approve the Philadelphia Land Bank disposition of property, transferring ownership of vacant or tax-delinquent land to developers, community groups or individuals, we say with the goal of reactivating the land and advancing City objectives, let us remain and remember, if not ruminate and meditate, on the passage of Sherlock poem Over Here. He says, We are over here now among the alley cats and the broken stoops. Let us reflect on the urban environments and communal experiences of the we over here now. The Parker Administration has placed housing as one of its key focus points, with the largest ever public investment in housing in Philadelphia history. Members of the chamber have spent the better part of the week grappling with the budget as presented and more acutely with the many challenges presented by providing the 30,000 units of housing to reach this worthy goal. I am, as are you of course, aware that year-to-date 10% increase in homeless and 38% increase in the rise of those who are unsheltered who now make the streets of Philadelphia home. I do not therefore doubt that the 5000-plus properties in the Philadelphia's Land Bank are part of this aforementioned discussion, certainly as the chunk of the 30,000 units foretold. It is however that today I beg your prayers for private intention. As you continue to legislate and administrate duties in your chairs, pray, who are the developers that will receive these Land Bank properties. Question: If the principles align with the goals of the communities they serve, ensure that they are held to standards that would make their development affordable for the communities they develop, create the means, laws and programs that keep people, those amid the alley cats and between the broken stoops over here means programs and laws, that as Wanda Walker reiterates every week, keeps people in their homes. Perhaps moreover, provides ways to require and reacquire the properties taken from them in resolutions like this. (Applause.)

Jacob Zychick with the American Heart Association. On behalf of the American Heart Association, we would like to thank Councilmember Phillips for the resolution recognizing Philadelphia's commitment to the CDC's Active People Healthy Nation. Active People, Healthy Nation is an initiative to increase Americans physical activity. Increased physical activity can improve an individual's quality of life and reduce health care costs. The goal of this initiative is to move millions of American adults from inactive to some modern intensity physical activity every day. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Philadelphia, with more than 4000 lives lost each year. Only about 1 in 5 adults and teens get enough exercise to maintain good health. Even with risk factors for heart disease such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol, people who enjoy physical activity, regular physical activity, have lower death rates than people who have no risk factors but are not physically active. Yesterday was April 2nd, and it was National Walking Day. Research has shown that walking can have a significant impact on your health by lowering your chance of heart disease. Philadelphia has been a champion for improving access to physical activity. This includes programs such as Rebuild, Playstreets, Safe Routes to Schools and expanded summer youth Recreation programs. Philadelphia has joined Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery Counties in this region to confirm their commitment to the CDC's Active People, Healthy Nation. The American Heart Association would like to thank Councilmember Phillips and the entire Philadelphia City Council for confirming their commitment to this important initiative. Thank you very much. (Applause.)

We have Veronica Renee Lee Montgomery, Dawn Fassett. Raymond Johnson, Wanda Walker, Muti Ajamu-Osagboro and Yovana Bustamante, please make your way to the podium. (Witnesses approached podium.)

Minister Veronica Renee Lee Montgomery of the Greater Bibleway Temple of Sharon Hill, PA. I'm also the block captain of 200 South 51st Street. And I am also a member of the POWER Interfaith. And also, I want to say that I have lived on 51st Street for 67 years of my life. My parents left the house to me and I live there now and have pretty much lived there all my life. However, what I'm concerned about in the 60th Ward and 13th Division is affordable housing. I'm concerned about the property taxes, the increases that are enormous. I'm concerned about the various differences in our community and how it impacts us and how we are affected by different issues that are going on in the community. Gentrification is one of them or another one of them. I am looking at my life. And as I get older and I have aged, it's a big concern for me. I retired when I was 55. As I said, I'm 67 now. So what was then is not what is now. And so, it affects my income. I'm on a budget. I'm concerned also about the home repairs programs that are not working for me in my home. Also, I just want to say that I would appreciate if the elected officials in my community and the West Philadelphia area will come together and work with us so that we can have affordable housing. I hope that the land mark work to move affordable housing for residents of the Philadelphia find not to move more unknown developers in our city. Thank you very much. (Applause.)

Good morning. My name is Dawn Fassett. I'm a member of greater St. Matthews Independent Church. My name is Dawn Fassett. I'm deeply concerned about the property taxes increased displacement and Act 135 in our city. I'm here to tell you how my family lost our home, not because we abandoned it, not because we didn't care but because people who were supposed to help used the law to take it from us. Our family home at 5105 Overbrook Avenue was taken under Act 135, a law that's supposed to help clean up truly abandoned blighted properties. But in our case, and then too many others, this law was twisted into a tool for theft. The people who took our home, the Philadelphia Community Development Coalition, PCDC, and their lawyers used lies and half truths to convince the court to hand them our property. And the worst part, the system let it happen. One, it started with a lie. Two, they promised to pay but never did. Three, the system helped them get away with it. Four, the real cost, a family's home, a family's future. It wasn't just about a house. It was about generational wealth, about a family trying to hold on to what was rightfully theirs. In Philadelphia, America's poorest big city, our home was our biggest asset and we lost everything. What needs to change, we need Council and others to investigate the abuse of Act 135, hold judges and conservators accountable, make it harder for private groups to profit off of our homes. My family's story is not unique. It's part of a bigger problem in this city. If we don't fix it, more families, especially Black and Brown families, in our city will lose their home in the same way. And side bar, we appreciate you, Curtis Jones, Councilman Jones, for the work of moving properties to the Land Bank. We hope that others will take this action, affordable housing options in the future. Thank you. (Applause.)