Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, December 11, 2014 10:45 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 ED NEILSON 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, CHIEF CLERK Stated Meeting December 11, 2014
We've established a quorum. I'd ask that all guests and visitors please retire behind the rail. The members will take their seat. We will get started. Thank you. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair recognizes Elder Gregory Johnson Sr. of Metropolitan Baptist Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Blackwell. Accompanying Elder Johnson is Bishop Raymond Sutton, Pastor of Zoe Bible Fellowship Baptist Church and President-elect of the Baptist Pastor and Ministers Conference of Philadelphia and Vicinity. I would ask all guests and visitors and members to please rise. (Members and guests rise.) ELDER JOHNSON: President Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 entire body, thank you for the opportunity to come and to stand and to offer God's blessings upon our decisions before they are made, offer God's blessings upon and ask God for wisdom as we continue to look forward to serving those whom we have been called to serve. Certainly to Councilwoman Blackwell, thank you for this opportunity, and I am grateful for the partnership that we have and I look forward with continued work and continued work in the community. Now, I have been told that the invocation sometimes can be very lengthy. I want to promise you, that's not going to happen today. I understand that you have a large number of bills and work that you need to do, and I want to assure you that our schedule today is just as tight as yours. So I'm going to pray, and after I pray, you can get on with your Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 right? Now, I should warn you, though, it is dangerous to give a preacher a microphone and people. That's okay. Never mind. I'll do that next time I come. All right. Let's pray. Bow your heads with me, if you don't mind. Eternal God, our Heavenly Father, Lord, in the name of Jesus, God, we come today to say to you, first of all, before we ask of anything, we want to say to you thank you. Thank you for your continued love. Thank you for your continued mercy. Thank you for your continued grace that you have given to us in spite of us. Even though we have not done all that we're supposed to do, you continue to put your hands upon us and, God, we say to you thank you. Now, God, we would ask now that you would send your wisdom to all that is in this room today, to all that have the task of making decisions that affect the Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 So we ask for wisdom, not just for today but we ask for wisdom as we continue to serve. And I pray, God, that all that is said and done in this building today will be pleasing in your sight. God, we need your help. We have a tremendous work that is laid before all of us. These Councilpersons, God, have a tremendous work that has been laid before them. They need wisdom and, God, I'm asking that you send it in this place today. Thank you for all things. Bless your holy and righteous name. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen. (Amen.)
Thank you so much, Pastor, for those inspiring words. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.) Stated Meeting December 11, 2014
Thank you very much. We're going to move on. Thank you so much. The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, December 4th, 2014. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, December 4th, 2014 be approved. (Duly seconded.)
It's been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, December 4th, 2014 stand approved. All those in favor? (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the Journal is Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 of business is requests for leaves of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Mr. President, on behalf of the democrats, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. Excuse me, folks. Could we ask you to please keep your voices down. Thank you. 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 Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 you for coming down today to witness your government in action. We hope that your experience here today is a pleasurable one, so much so that you come back again. So, again, thank you all very much. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill, who will present a resolution honoring June Spring. Would Ms. Spring and those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium.
Mr. President, if you'll indulge me, we don't usually bring our coffee up with us today, but I thought today would be a good time for an exception.
Thank you, Mr. President. com) Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 siting a store in your community. They treat everyone with respect and they listen and they actually respond, and usually it's an improvement to the neighborhood when they're finished rather than something that people have to just live with. And this lady has been responsible for that for a long time and has done an outstanding job. So this is a resolution honoring and congratulating June Spring on the occasion of her retirement from Wawa Incorporated. The Council of the City of Philadelphia hereby honors, congratulates, commends and thanks June Spring on the occasion of her retirement after 29 years of dedicated and excellent service to the City of Philadelphia. com) Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Philadelphia; Whereas, June Spring will serve as a lifetime example of what it means to support others, as evidenced through her longstanding commitment and support of the Greater Northeast Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce where she served as a Board member since 2002 and has been instrumental in building strong relationships between small and large businesses - the collaboration that has strengthened the Northeast business community; Whereas, June Spring has played a vital role in supporting the Philadelphia Fire and Police Departments in their efforts to serve Philadelphia neighborhoods and keep them safe through her work with programs such as the Police District Advisory Councils. com) Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Philadelphia at every Wawa grand opening, Wawa's annual Wawa Welcome -- that's a lot of Wawa's -America July 4th events and through ongoing departmental recognition programs; Whereas, the history of Wawa's success and store expansion in the City of Philadelphia and June Spring's career with Wawa are inextricably linked, as June has been instrumental in opening dozens of stores throughout her 30-year career in the Philadelphia area; Whereas, June Spring played a vital role in blazing new trails for Wawa in Philadelphia with the successful development and opening of 11 new fuel prototype stores resulting -- as we call, Wawa with gas -- prototype stores resulting in more than 500 jobs, helping to successfully transform Wawa's business to larger stores selling fuel, adding value and convenience to residents of Philadelphia far and wide. com) Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 on the grounds of both Philadelphia Airports - the Northeast and International Airports; Whereas, June Spring played a key role in inspiring associates to celebrate the Wawa values and share them throughout the City by volunteering in local community events including Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure and the annual Red Cross events; Whereas, June Spring was and is hereunto a Wawa Values Champion and six-time inductee into Wawa's President's Club, making her a Wawa brand ambassador; now, therefore, be it Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we hereby honor, congratulate, commend and thank June Spring on the occasion of her retirement after 29 years of dedicated and excellent service to the City of Philadelphia. com) Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. That is signed by the Council President and co-sponsored by all members of Council. Thank you. )
Now, this is the second time I've thought it was somebody who deserved a framed copy. So you'll see a big frame around June's resolution. You meant a lot to us, June, over the years. Thank you. So we'll take this downstairs. And if you want to say something.
Thank you, Brian. Thank you, members of Council. I'm humbled and honored. I'm lost for words too. But all what I've done is merely an example of the team behind me and the values that you are presented with every day as you go into our stores. It's just Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Wawa. It is the values that have set us aside and made a difference, because we take them seriously. And it goes beyond just the coffee and the hoagies and so forth. It goes deep into the community, and usually very, very quietly we just do it because it's the right thing to do. So, again, thank you very much, but it's not me. It takes a village, and there is -- we are 23,000 strong now, but again focused on the task of doing things right, do the right thing, and be involved to help in the community. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Thank you very much. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones, who will present a resolution honoring the Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 colleges, universities and academic institutions participating in higher education partnerships with the School District of Philadelphia. Would Mr. Wadell Ridley please join the Councilman at the podium. And joining Councilman Jones, we have Councilwoman Blackwell, Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, Councilman Greenlee, Councilman Oh, Councilwoman Bass, and Councilwoman Tasco and Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez and Councilman Johnson. Pretty much the entire lineup.
And it is truly appropriate that this many Councilpeople are up here today, because there is not one section of our city that is not positively impacted by higher education. And we could talk about all of the people that they employ and all of the impact that they have on the physical skyline of the City of Philadelphia, but today I'd like to talk about their Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 When we start looking at all of the universities and roles that they play and pay particular attention when members of this body read about the universities' programs, you'll see that they have, in tough, real tough budgetary times, stepped up in a big way to do things like art, to provide music, to be a constant presence in hallways, to student teach, to have homework clubs, to be a part of the future of education in the City of Philadelphia, for which this body is truly, truly grateful. So we are honoring and recognizing colleges and universities, academic institutions participating in higher education partnerships with the School District of Philadelphia. Whereas, the School District of Philadelphia has been severely inhibited by budget cuts, layoffs and school closings in recent years, leading to struggles for education and students Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 of higher education with the School District have helped numerous students, hundreds of students further their academic careers by pursuing higher education;
Whereas, Arcadia University has established a partnership with the Black Male Development Symposium. Arcadia staff members have also worked closely with the Philadelphia Bar Association's Advancing Civic Education, known as ACE, program to provide administrative and technical support to the many judges and attorneys who teach civics to students in the Philadelphia public high schools and elementary schools;
And whereas, Bryn Mawr College student volunteers provide art instruction to students at Overbrook Elementary School in grades kindergarten, first, second and fourth; and Whereas, Cheyney University's Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 ME MISTER (Mentors Instructing Students Towards Effective Role Model) program helps to increase the number of African American young men in the field of education;
And whereas, Community College of Philadelphia has enacted numerous partnerships and programs with children of all ages with the School District of Philadelphia, including but not limited to: Advance College Experience wherein high school students earn college credit; the Olney High School College Readiness Partnership Program which aims to foster equity for underrepresented students in higher education; and the Conveyor Belt College Readiness Partnership Initiative where students from alternative schools and GED programs in Philadelphia enroll in summer courses to gain early exposure to the academic and social experience of a college education;
Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Whereas, Drexel University serves as a co-chair on the Empowerment Zone Education Committee and lead partner organization for McMichael School, Powel School, and Martha Washington Elementary School. It also provides investments in the areas of academic support as well as safety;
Whereas, Harcum College provides the iLEAD program which supports accelerated school students seamlessly transitioning into an associate's degree program;
Whereas, Harrisburg University is currently exploring implementation of the STEM program co-located at Overbrook High School; Whereas, Pierce College offers support for the YouthBuild Charter School and the GEAR-UP Program;
Whereas, Temple University provides coordination of the MESA STEM Program out of the Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Engineering, as well as the coordination of the Let's Get Ready SAT prep program and various other leadership and workforce development programs. In addition, Temple University provides support for programmatic implementation at Duckery Elementary and Dunbar Promise Academy;
Whereas, the Teacher Education Alliance is a collaborative of universities who work to improve teacher effectiveness and includes: Temple University, LaSalle University, West Chester University, Arcadia University, Penn State University, Holy Family University, Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania;
Whereas, the University of Pennsylvania supports the Penn Alexander School and the Lea School via the Graduate School of Education to provide after-school programs, behavioral and social supports Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 University of Pennsylvania also offers support for workforce development out of the Netter Center for Community Engagement;
Whereas, West Chester University has been exploring programming to support a revised teacher preparatory program to support the two new high schools to be located in North Philadelphia;
Whereas, the following universities offer college preparatory services to high school students: Arcadia University, Bryn Mawr College, the Community College of Philadelphia, Delaware Valley College, Dickinson College, Drexel University, East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania, Edinboro University, Elizabethtown College, Harcum College, Harrisburg University, Holy Family University, LaSalle University, Millersville University, Montgomery Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 College, Moore College of Art, Penn State University, St. Joseph's University, Rutgers University-Camden, Temple University, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology and the University of Pennsylvania; therefore, be it resolved
Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia, honors and recognizes the dedicated efforts of these institutions of higher education to improve their local communities by making higher education more accessible for all. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented as evidence of our sincere admiration and appreciation of this legislative body. (Applause.)
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Mr. Ridley for remarks. Stated Meeting December 11, 2014
Councilman, President Clarke, Majority Leader and 4th District Councilman Jones, my Councilman, and members of City Council, colleagues, neighbors, and friends, thank you for allowing me a moment to express appreciation on behalf of the colleges and universities from Philadelphia and the region on being recognized for the higher education partnerships that our collective institutions have established with the School District of Philadelphia. It's no secret that the School District has lost resources over the years and that our Philadelphia children struggle because of it, but many academic institutions of higher learning have provided programs and resources in the past, make resources available now, and will continue to do so. These partnerships are necessary and expected. As mentioned in the resolution, Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 importance of the K through 12 pipeline. We are providing resources to children of all ages. We must continue to do our best to prepare our young people for the future, and the best way to do that is to develop and nurture homegrown talent academically, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. A child in elementary school today will quite possibly enter the workforce in high school. These young people are future college students, future business owners, future healthcare professionals and, of course, future legislators, and our institutions are committed to helping our children in the Philadelphia School District reach their full potential. Thank you. (Applause.)
I understand that there are a number of individuals here who are also with the Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 to come up and be a part of the picture, please come up at this time. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you very much. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell, who will present a resolution honoring the memory of Dr. Joseph Ginyard. Would Philip Ginyard and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. And joining Councilwoman Blackwell, we have Councilwoman Bass and Councilman Jones and also Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Mr. President, members of Council, I will in no way try to introduce all these esteemed guests. We're going to leave that to the family to do. I don't want to leave anyone out. Stated Meeting December 11, 2014
It's an extreme honor and pleasure for me to be part of this wonderful presentation. Pastor Ginyard was not only my friend and a friend to all those or he who are here and all those in West Philadelphia and beyond, but he was a friend to the late and great Lucien Blackwell, who loved him and who was certainly part of all that happened. So it gives me extra special pride to be part of this wonderful resolution. Resolution also naming Leidy Avenue between Girard Avenue and 42nd Street "Dr. Joseph Ginyard Way" to honor the memory of Dr. Joseph Ginyard and to recognize his life and memorialize his lasting legacy.
Whereas, Joseph Ginyard was born September 18th, 1924 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the third of six children of Mortie Ginyard Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Ginyard; and Whereas, after graduating from Northeast High School, Dr. Ginyard joined the United States Marine Corps, where he served honorably in World War II and continued to serve until after the Korean Conflict began; and Whereas in 1948, Joseph Ginyard was united in marriage with Cecila M. Jackson, and through this union, four children were brought into the world: Dr. Jo-Ann Hayward, Martin Ginyard, Elaine Barkley and Reverend Philip Ginyard; and
Whereas, Dr. Ginyard was a faithful and committed pastor, husband, father, grandfather, mentor and civic leader; and Whereas, affectionately known as "Bro Joe" and often considered the "Pride of East Parkside," Dr. Ginyard created Calvary Gospel Chapel at 4128 West Girard Avenue with fellow Elder Dr. B. Sam Hart and Danny Stone; and Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Whereas, Dr. Ginyard's greatest concern was for helping young people overcome their personal obstacles by challenging them to become role models within their family, church, school, neighborhood and the world. Further, Dr. Ginyard always exuded a positive attitude and was a firm believer that something positive could result from even the most dire dismal of situations; and Whereas, over the course of his life, Dr. Ginyard received many awards in his lifetime dedication to service, including the Greater Philadelphia Urban Affairs Award, the Urban Hero Award, the Ed Rendell Doer Award, the Youth Services Incorporated Award and President Barack Obama's Lifetime Achievement for Community Service Award; and
Whereas, in 2012, Dr. Ginyard and the surviving Montford Point Marines were honored with the Congressional Gold Medal; and Whereas, according to his Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 family, his greatest achievement was in guiding and instructing young people to be godly, responsible and productive human beings; therefore, be it Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that Leidy Avenue between Girard Avenue and 42nd Street is also known "Dr. Joseph Ginyard Way" to honor the memory of Dr. Joseph Ginyard and to recognize his life and memorialize his lasting legacy. Further resolved, that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to his family as well as the congregation of Calvary Gospel Chapel as evidence of the sincere respect of this legislative body. Thank you. (Applause.)
We're so grateful to Councilwoman Blackwell, to the members of the Council, to the President of the Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Council, our family, our church family, the extended community of East Parkside and Mantua for this tremendous honor and blessing. My dad, his theme and his overriding thesis for a lot of what he did stemmed from a simple verse in Micah, which says what does God require of man, but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God. And so his idea was to do justice, his relationship with mankind, with humanity, with the community, with children, boys and girls throughout East Parkside and Mantua, to provide mercy, to show God's love in all that he did, and to also walk humbly in relationship with the Lord. So we just thank you. We're so blessed today. Indeed we ask to continue his legacy for those who are working in the communities, wherever they are, that even at 87 years old where he walked the streets of East Parkside and Mantua working with the schools and the Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 community, with those who are endeavoring to make life better, we want to encourage all of you who are engrossed in that endeavor today. (Applause.)
At this time, we want to introduce the Elder in the church who is now standing in, Danny Sawyer.
Hello. On behalf of the leadership of Calvary Gospel Chapel and the members, we would like to thank the President of the Council, the Councilmembers for honoring today the life, the labor of love, the legacy, and the awesome leadership of Pastor Dr. Joseph Ginyard. He had served faithfully, diligently, and he was committed to making a difference in the East Parkside/Mantua area. Not only did he work in the heart of the community tirelessly, but he also had the community at heart, and for that, we're most Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 to personally also thank Councilwoman Blackwell for her relationship with our pastor over the years as well as our church family, our ministries and all that we've done at Calvary Gospel Chapel. Thank you so much. God bless you. (Applause.)
Mr. Chairman, members of Council, I am here this morning representing the Martin Luther King Association for Non-Violence, of which Dr. Ginyard was a Board member for over 16 years. I further want to applaud you for your efforts, your visionary efforts this morning, in recognizing his contributions to the City of Philadelphia. His contributions to the City of Philadelphia will always remain monumental in the area where he served, because he was truly a dedicated, committed person. Although he was small Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 stature, he was always a giant of a man in his actions and in his deeds. He was a great citizen. He put his life on the line just to serve his country, because when he enlisted in the Marines, one of the first black battalions to be trained by the United States in World War II, he was trained in a snake pit of poisonous snakes. He had to go through that to serve his country. He had to go through trials and tribulations to serve his community, but he did it with a smile. He did it with dedication. He did it with devotion. And I can see him now. A couple years ago he told me he was going skiing with a group of young people up in the Adirondack Mountains at Word of Life where he used to take a group every winter, and he was still skiing just before he took ill. And let us all use him as a symbol and as an example of what's needed in this city and our communities that they may be Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 terms of the holiday season we are about to experience. Thank you. (Applause.) UNIDENTIFIED SPEAKER: What more can be said that has not already been said? Our beloved Brother Joe, our pastor, our teacher, our counselor, our mentor and, most of all, he was our friend. I can truly say I walked with a giant, from the hills of Kenya in Africa to the valley, the valley of valleys and to the streets of East Parkside. He was a man among men, and most of all, for 55 years our quality of life in East Parkside was made better because he stood by the stuff. And we're just truly grateful for his life and to this legislative body for allowing us to commemorate his life. Thank you very much. (Applause.)
Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 ease. (Council at ease.)
Thank you very much. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilman Squilla, who will present a resolution declaring 2015 the YEAR OF THE PHILLY FLAG. Would Brenda Exon on those accompanying her please join the Councilman at the podium. And joining Councilman Squilla, we have Councilman Kenney and Councilman O'Neill. Can I have quiet please, folks.
Good morning. And as you see today, we have an additional flag next to our American flag added to our desks in preparation for this resolution, the Philly flag and what it means to our city. And we have a great leader in Brenda Exon, who is a tenacious proponent of the Philadelphia flag. And so today we want to recognize her and the Philly Flag and for what it Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Declaring 2015 the YEAR OF THE PHILLY FLAG in honor of the flag's 120th anniversary on March 27th, 2015 Philadelphia Flag Day. Beginning on January 1 through December 31st, 2015, the City will engage in a year-long celebration of our hometown flag resulting in the City fully flagged. Whereas, Philadelphia Civic Flag was conceived and designed by the Reverend Dr. Henry C. McCook, esteemed entomologist and Vice President of the Academy of Natural Sciences Drexel University (1882); and Whereas, the Philadelphia Civic Flag was the first adopted City flag in the nation on March 27th, 1895 and the only American city flag never to be altered. These facts are verified in a letter from the PA Historical Museum Commission dated February 21st, 2014;
Whereas, we recognize the meaningful message Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 flag: PHILADELPHIA MANETO - "Let Brotherly Love Continue" through peace, hope, justice, and prosperity for all citizens; Whereas, what William Penn began by naming his City for Love, our Philadelphia Civic Flag asks us to continue. The Philadelphia Flag connects all of us to our city's founding mission - to let love be the guiding force; and
Whereas, we hope that all members of Council will get their districts flagged by taking the Philly Flag's unifying message to their constituents as part of the Citywide effort to connect all citizens to their hometown flag. We ask our citizens to show support for the flag's unifying message by: wearing the City colors and flying the Philly Flag every March 27th, and for all special Philly occasions; attending the annual "gathering of citizens" at the Philly Flag Day event, Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 27th, which includes the presentation of the inspiring Philadelphia Maneto Awards; nominating someone to receive a Philadelphia Maneto Award at Partners for Civic Pride PFCP.org; and learning the Pledge of Philadelphia PFCP.org; and Whereas, we honor the 10th Anniversary of Partners for Civic Pride, working to pursue, promote and celebrate our City flag in an effort to connect/unite citizenry to their hometown flag and its message of Brotherly Love. We give special appreciation to Will Smith Sr. who laid the first brick in the PFCP foundation. Will's steadfast support and leadership, for over a decade, has inspired PFCP to move forward with its mission to unite Philadelphians via their Philly Flag; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we declare 2015 the Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 FLAG in honor of the flag's 120th Anniversary on March 27th, 2015 - the Philadelphia Flag Day. Congratulations. (Applause.)
Woo-hoo. You know, the most beautiful thing today is, today all of the resolutions have represented what your Philly Flag is about. Reverend Joseph Ginyard, he should have that Philly Flag flying right over him right now. He lived the message Philadelphia Maneto, let brotherly love continue. Philadelphia is Greek for brotherly love. Maneto, for it to continue, in Latin. Together, let brotherly love continue. We put an extra large desk flag on your desk today to show that City seal that is a part of this important flag. Yeah, wave it back there. Woo-hoo. com) Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 is that it's taken us a while to get this story straight, and the story is amazing, because we've just learned this year that this is the first city flag to be adopted officially in America. And that's in this book. The packet that is on your desk has that title -- this cover and those facts for you to take a look where it states it is indeed the first official adopted flag. You have remarkable documentation that we just discovered in the Journal of Common Councils, March 1894, and that paperwork is in your packet, because it has the original letters that Reverend Dr. Henry C. McCook, esteemed entomologist and also astute at observing social phenomena, presented to the Mayor back in 1894, Edwin S. Stuart, asking that there be a city flag to unite our beautiful diverse city as a universal symbol. com) Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 song connecting the community -- oh, I'm sorry; Kenney. Sorry. No. You're great about getting payment for worker sick leave. Letting that work continue, all of you. But this little -- this scientist, he studied ants, and I got to tell you this, because he wrote this book. Listen to this. Ant communities and how they are governed, a study in natural civics, a study in natural civics. So from nature, the lowly little ant, scientists came up with the concept of this flag. The way the ant unifies, a city can unify. Your seal from 1874 that's on it, that is Reverend McCook's design that was adopted. He made use of the City seal of 1874 and put it with the Philly colors as your blue and gold and yellow. Also in your packet is the official first ordinance for a city flag. com) Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 that? I know you're going to all run home tonight and read Reverend McCook's letter. It's so inspiring. You're going to read that first ordinance that was written for this flag. And, once again, a first for Philly. Also -- okay. I'm getting excited, yeah. So I know. You think the Reverend had a hard time not talking, you know. But, finally, your flag today, you've got your own flag. You've got a briefcase flag in here to take wherever you go. Let people know there's a city flag. And these flags you may take back to your office, the large one and the desk flag. We're going to replace those flags with little smaller flags. Okay? But I am so honored to stand with these Board members. I got to say that, because they also represent what that flag is about. We are a mixture, a real sample of what Philly is about. We've got celebrity here. com) Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 got every religion, culture, socioeconomic status, and level of education represented in the Board that volunteers their time completely over the past decade to help get the word out about this flag. So please use your social media, use whatever, spread the word, we got a Philly flag. And now, Will, will you step forward to lead them. Will Smith Sr. is being honored because it was him, he made our 501(c)(3) happen. He gave us the lawyers. We didn't have money. He gave us the lawyers to get this 501(c)(3) started, and he joined our Board. He's given us his home to meet in and help us spread the word.
And so I need help to write this pledge, my pledge of Philadelphia, which he would like to lead all of you in. )
This is my pledge to Philadelphia. I hope it will be yours and all Philadelphians. My City of Brotherly Love, to you I pledge my pride. To peace, hope, justice, and prosperity, by these principles I will abide. Let them be my guide. I love you, Philadelphia. You are my home. Let us live together and grow. Philadelphia Maneto. (Applause.)
And an amazing young man, sixth grader from KIPP. He'll introduce himself actually, but a charter school, West Philadelphia Preparatory Charter School, is here, and he is the reason we're all here, because he has the flag and he shows what the flag can mean to a young person learning that they have a Philly Flag and colors. (Applause.)
I am Elijah Pompey, a sixth grader formerly from Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Heston, K to 8. My former teacher was Ms. Elliot, but I was recently transferred to KIPP West Philadelphia Preparatory Charter School. I am proud to be a Philadelphian. Atop of this building is the tallest freestanding statue atop a building in the world. It is William Penn. These are the famous words of our first founding father: I expect to pass through life but once. Therefore, if there be any kindness I can show or any good thing I can do for any fellow being, let me do it now, as I shall not defer or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again. What William Penn began naming our city for love, our Philadelphia Civic Flag reminds us to continue. I, Elijah Pompey, challenge all of City Council to take this meaningful message back to your districts, especially you, President Clarke. Philadelphia Maneto. Let Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Peace, hope, justice, and prosperity for all. (Standing ovation.)
Thank you very much. Before we proceed with the Council session, what I'd like to ask all our guests and visitors -- this is somewhat of a somber note, but to please rise. We'd like to have a moment of silence for our fallen hero, Firefighter Joyce Craig. If we could just stand for just a moment, please. (Moment of silence.)
Thank you. She was a true Philadelphian. Thank you. The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-of-Arms delivers the messages to the Chief Clerk. Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Decker, will you please read those messages.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, pursuant to Sections 4-604 and 2-307 of the Home Rule Charter, I am today transmitting to the Council the recommendation of the City Planning Commission on the following bills: Bill Nos. 140831, 140857, 140885, 140887, 140888, 140889, 140895, 140896, 140899, 140900, 140901, 140905, 140906, 140940, 140945, 140946, 140948, and 140949. And I am submitting herewith for the consideration of your honorable body an ordinance authorizing the issuance from time to time of one or more series of general obligation bonds to provide funds to refund certain outstanding general obligation bonds of the City of Philadelphia; authorizing the Mayor, the City Controller and the City Solicitor or a majority of them to sell the bonds at public or private negotiated Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 sale; and setting forth the purposes for which the proceeds of the bonds will be expended; and An ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Employees Retirement Code," by amending various provisions to provide for provisions for participants performing qualified military service, to allow certain transfer payments for purchase of service and for purchase of service by certain classes of employees, to allow for non-spouse beneficiary rollover rights, to provide certain retroactive effective dates, and otherwise provide language required by the Internal Revenue Code, all under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. Do you have any additional messages?
Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Thank you very much. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer two bills and two privileged resolutions.
An ordinance amending Title 22 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Public Employees Retirement Code," by amending various provisions to provide for provisions for participants performing qualified military service, to allow certain transfer payments for purchase of service and for purchase of service by certain classes of employees.
And an ordinance amending Title 16 of The Philadelphia Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Code, entitled "Public Property," by amending Chapter 16-300 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Maintenance and Supervision," prohibiting the parking of certain vehicles on certain sections of City owned property.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Public Property and Public Works to conduct hearings on the current status, existing plans, and timeline for the redesign of underutilized public spaces in Center City Philadelphia, including but not limited to: the apron surrounding City Hall; Thomas Paine Plaza; the courtyard of City Hall; and the ground floor of City Hall.
That resolution will be on today's Final Passage Calendar.
And a privileged resolution honoring the life and Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 achievements of Joseph E. Montgomery, a longtime president of Division 65 of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and a passionate advocate for Philadelphia's Irish-American community.
And that resolution will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I introduce one privileged and one non-privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution Honoring, Recognizing and Commending Philadelphia's Young Entrepreneurs Salim Weldon, Tonae Simon, Andre Dominique Landry, and Amurri Kinsey for Their Creative Spirit, Success in Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Business, and Commitment to Service.
That resolution will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar.
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 Third Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
And that will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Mr. President. I offer one bill that is co-sponsored by you and many other members of City Council, and on Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 your behalf I offer two resolutions.
An ordinance enacting a new Chapter 9-4100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Promoting Healthy Families and Workplaces," to provide that certain employees are entitled to paid and unpaid leave.
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-Eighth Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Next week's Final Passage Calendar. Stated Meeting December 11, 2014
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 Fifteenth and Thirty-Second Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
That will also be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Council President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco. Stated Meeting December 11, 2014
Mr. President, I offer a resolution honoring the life of Joyce Craig, the young lady, firefighter, who lost her life the other day. She was a resident of the 9th Councilmanic District. All members of Council are sponsoring this, and you have asked for a moment of silence in her honor.
Thank you. We will have a standing vote at the time.
And that resolution will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Johnson.
Mr. President, I have two privileged resolutions and one non-privileged Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 resolution.
A privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia City Council Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings regarding increasing the minimum wage to $15 an hour in the City of Philadelphia. (Applause.)
That will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. And let me go -- I'll come back to you, Councilwoman, after we finish the next resolution.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Philadelphia City Council Committee on Commerce and Economic Development to hold hearings regarding the Pathways to Job Growth Report by the Central Philadelphia Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Development Corporation and the Center City District.
And that resolution will also be on this week's Final Passage Calendar.
And a non-privileged resolution calling upon the Task Force on 21st Century Policing created by President Barack Obama to examine, in his report on promoting effective crime reduction, the importance of community policing, race relations, and diversity training in policing practices as well as a review of racial disparities in the Criminal Justice System.
That resolution will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Sorry. Next Council session, not next week's. It will be on the next Council session.
An ordinance authorizing the issuance from time to time of one or more series of general obligation bonds to provide funds to refund certain outstanding general obligation bonds of the City of Philadelphia; authorizing the Mayor, City Controller and City Solicitor or a majority of them to sell bonds at public or private negotiated sale.
And that bill will be referred to committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one non-privileged resolution. Stated Meeting December 11, 2014
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 Seventh, Eighteenth and Nineteenth Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
That will be on next week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman Neilson.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one privileged resolution.
A privileged Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 resolution recognizing and honoring the long tradition of the Mummer's Parade and the many Mummer's organizations and participants, past and present, for their immeasurable contribution to the City of Philadelphia.
That will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Brien.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
An ordinance amending Subsection 19-2604(6) of The Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Philadelphia Code, under which businesses that enter into agreements to make contributions to community development corporations and certain other organizations receive credits against business income and receipts taxes, by changing the annual contribution amount required to receive the credit and the annual amount of the credit.
That bill will be referred to committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown.
Good morning, Mr. President. I offer three resolutions this morning.
A privileged resolution honoring the African American Children's Book Project on the occasion of the 23rd Annual African American Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Children's Book Fair and that February 7th is the Kick-Off of the National Literacy Initiative - Preserve a Legacy, Buy a Book.
And a privileged resolution authorizing City Council's Committee on Education to hold public hearings regarding Philadelphia's institutions of higher education's policies on sexual assault and the national movement towards the adoption of an Affirmative Consent "Yes Means Yes" policy.
And a privileged resolution Recognizing and Honoring Joseph Neubauer On The Occasion of His Retirement as Chairman of Aramark.
And that will also be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 And the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. Two bills and one privileged resolution co-sponsored by Blackwell, Brown, Goode, and Johnson.
An ordinance establishing a one-way regulation on East River Road, from Midvale Avenue to Calumet Street, northbound.
And an ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by providing for spraygrounds and adding definitions.
And a privileged resolution honoring and celebrating Ready, Willing and Able for helping Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 hundreds of men overcome poverty, addiction, and crime to become productive, contributing members of our community and responsible fathers to their children in the City of Brotherly Love by providing resources to men such as transitional housing, recovery services, life skills and living wage employment that promotes healthy households and responsible fatherhood.
That will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. And 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 one bill and one Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 resolution on your behalf.
An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 6th Street, Wood Street, 2nd Street, Benjamin Franklin Bridge Access Road, and Vine Street Expressway Ramp.
And a privileged resolution authorizing the Committee on Streets and Services of the Philadelphia City Council to hold hearings to explore best practices within the mobile food truck industry.
And that will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Bass. Stated Meeting December 11, 2014
Thank you, Mr. President. I have one non-privileged resolution.
A privileged resolution authorizing the Joint Committees on Streets and Services and Public Safety to hold hearings on strategies and methods to reduce speeding, such as traffic calming, to make city streets, especially those in neighborhoods, safer for drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists, and investigating how all traffic injuries and fatalities can be significantly reduced leading to the eventual goal of zero deaths, also known as a "Vision Zero" policy.
That will be on this week's Final Passage Calendar. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Oh. Stated Meeting December 11, 2014
Thank you very much, Mr. President. I offer no bills or resolutions.
Thank you very much, Councilman. That concludes our introduction of bills and resolutions, and the next order of business is reports from committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Jones for a report from the Committee of the Whole.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee of the Whole reports three resolutions with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Councilman. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee of the Whole, to which was referred Resolution No. Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 140998, entitled "A resolution appointing Daniel Christiansen to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District"; and Resolution No. 140999, entitled "A resolution reappointing Howard Lander to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District"; and Resolution No. 141000, entitled "A resolution appointing Doug Hager to the Board of Directors for the South Street Headhouse District," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached resolutions to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit consideration of Resolutions No. 140998, 140999, 141000 on today's Final Passage Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Resolutions No. 140998, 140999, and 141000 on today's Final Passage Calendar. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and it will be placed on today's Final Passage Calendar. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Greenlee for a report from the Committee of Law and Government.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Committee on Law and Government reports one bill and one resolution with a favorable Stated Meeting December 11, 2014
Thank you, Councilman. Mr. Decker, please read that report.
The Committee on Law and Government, to which was referred Bill No. 140721, 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 relating to the creation of a new Department of Planning and Development"; and Resolution No. 140732, entitled "A resolution proposing an amendment to The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter relating to the creation of a new Department of Planning and Development, headed by a Cabinet-level Director, to oversee the City's planning, zoning, licensing, inspection, enforcement, and Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 functions; continuing the existence of the City Planning Commission, Philadelphia Historical Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustment, Board of Building Standards, and Board of License and Inspection Review as boards or commissions in such new Department, with certain changes to the powers and duties of such boards and commissions; creating a new Intergovernmental Housing Commission in such new Department; and conforming other provisions of the Charter to such reorganization; and providing for the submission of the amendment to the electors of the City of Philadelphia," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill and resolution to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Mr. Decker. Bill No. 140721 will be placed on our First Reading Calendar at our next session of Council and Resolution No. Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 12/11/14 - STATED - 1ST READING 140732 will be placed on the Final Passage Calendar for the next session of Council. We will now consider the Calendar. The next order of business is the consideration of the Calendar. The Chief Clerk will please read the bills on the First Reading Calendar.
Bill No. 140895, entitled "An ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Tacony Street, Bridge Street, Frankford Creek, Delaware River, and Walbach Street."
Thank you. The Chair agrees, and this bill will be placed on our Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar at our next session of Council. The Chair now recognizes Councilman Jones for a motion concerning Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 2ND READING the resolutions on the Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the following resolutions on Final Passage Calendar.
Resolutions No. -- no, no. Wait a minute. Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of consideration of a Consent Agenda for the following resolutions on Final Passage Calendar: Resolutions No. 130541, 140911, 140974, 140976, 140977, 140978, 140982, 140983, 140989, 140990, 140991, 140992, 140995, 141001, 141002, 141003, 141004, 141005, 140951.
Thank you. (Duly seconded.) Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 2ND READING
Thank you. It's been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the resolutions just read by Councilman Jones. All those in favor say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it. The motion carries, and we will consider the resolutions on the Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair now again recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of a motion concerning the bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you again, Mr. President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda for the following bills on Second Reading and Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 2ND READING Final Passage Calendar today: Nos. 140829, 140860, 140861, 140862, 140863, 140864, 140859, 140864, 140887, 140888, 140889, 140901, 140209, 140884, 140942, 140943, 140229, 140275, 140800, 140885, 140940, 140946, 140949, 140606, 140890, 140891, 140899, 140900, 140905, 140937, 140945, 140947, 130628, 140142, 140750, 140856, 140892, 140894, 140939, 140853, 140854, and 140948. (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended to permit the use of a Consent Agenda to consider the bills just read by Councilman Jones. All in favor indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 2ND READING ayes have it. The motion carries, and we will consider the Consent Agenda shortly. The Chair again recognizes Councilman Jones for the purpose of calling up bills and resolutions on the regular Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar.
Thank you, Mr. President. In addition to the resolutions and bills being considered on the Consent Agenda, the following resolutions and bills are being called up from Second Reading and Final Passage Calendars today: No. 140997, 140638-A, 140831, 140857, 140828, 140782-A, 140897, and 140898. All other bills and resolutions are being held.
Thank you. Sorry. I just saw the list of public comment. Thank you, Councilman Jones. Before considering the resolutions and bills, we will consider Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 our public comment session. I'm sorry. Councilman Henon.
Thank you, Council President. Before we start public opinion, I just wanted to go on the record and say I have to -- I'm asking for an excuse for the rest of Council session, as I have Council business in the district, and wanted to go on the record voting aye on all bills and resolutions.
Thank you, Councilman. Leave shall be granted. Before we consider our public comment session, I just would like to give you the guidelines. If you are interested in testifying on a bill or resolution that is on the Final Passage Calendar at today's session, if you have not already done so, I'd ask that you sign up at the table to my left. When your name is called, you Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 will come to the middle of the Council Chambers. There's a podium and a device on the podium. There's a light on that podium. When the light turns green, it is your time to speak. When it turns yellow, you have 30 seconds remaining on your time, and when it turns red, we ask that you please conclude your remarks. Thank you very much in advance for you adhering to these guidelines.
Mr. President, I'd like to be excused for Council business. I want to be reported voting aye on all bills and resolutions.
Thank you. Thank you, Councilwoman. Leave shall be granted. Mr. Decker, call the first panel.
William Stock, Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Vanessa Stine, Amanda Bergson-Shilcock, and Maria Sotomayor, commenting on 140142. (Witnesses approached podium.)
So for your information, we're doing it a little differently today because of the extensive list. So we're calling groups up so we don't have to take time for the walk up to the podium, if that's okay with everyone. Thank you. Please proceed, sir.
Thank you. Members of City Council, My name is William Stock. I'm the First Vice President of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. On behalf of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, Philadelphia Chapter, which is 280 lawyers who provide immigration legal services in and around the City of Philadelphia, I would like to thank Councilman O'Brien and the Council for undertaking this regulation of Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 immigration legal services in the City of Philadelphia. Members of Council, immigration is regulated by federal law, but its impacts are local. When a family member comes to join someone who lives here in the City, when a student graduates from one of our schools or is sponsored by an employer, that has an impact in our city. And in the same way the regulation of the immigration services that can be provided is defined by federal law, but states and localities have a critical role in ensuring that the immigrant communities within their bounds are protected from the unlawful practice of immigration law. This ordinance does an essential tool by defining the scope of immigration services that can be provided by those who are not lawyers or authorized by non-profits by the Board of Immigration Appeals to provide immigration legal services using a Philadelphia business license. And so it Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 provides a critical tool for members of the community who have been harmed by service providers who are not licensed to be able to remedy that harm. I'll defer to my colleagues to explain some of the details. Thank you.
Good morning, members of City Council. Good afternoon. My name is Vanessa Stine and I'm an attorney and Equal Justice Works fellow with Friends of Farmworkers. I have a two-year legal fellowship focused on issues combatting immigration services fraud, and a critical component of my project is strengthening protections for immigrant consumers, which is why I fully support and advocate for the passage of this bill today. I'd like to thank Councilman O'Brien for introducing this bill and for his continued commitment to protecting Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 immigrant consumers in our city, and I'd also like to thank and applaud the collaboration between City Council, the Mayor's Office, and Licensing and Inspection. This bill is desperately needed. Regulating businesses that provide immigration assistance will provide standards to a currently unregulated sector and provide better protections for immigrant consumers who live and seek assistance in our great city. I want to refer back to previous testimony from last spring where members of City Council heard testimony from a client of Friends of Farmworkers. He wasn't able to provide the testimony in person because after being defrauded more than $15,000, he was deported to his home country. When he described the impact that the fraud had and being deported, he's testified that he felt like his life was over. He asked City Stated Meeting December 11, 2014 Councilmembers to do something so that others would not suffer the same harm that he suffered, and I'm here today to ask City Council to do just that. I'm here today to ask City Council to pass this bill. It's incredibly important for immigrant consumers. It's also important for advocates like myself who can use this as an additional tool when we're helping vulnerable immigrants to fight back against this type of fraud. Thank you for your time, and I hope that we see a yes vote today. Thank you.