COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Thursday, October 18, 2007 10:10 a.m. PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILWOMAN CAROL ANN CAMPBELL COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK DiCICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN WILLIAM GREENLEE COUNCILMAN JACK KELLY COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN JUAN RAMOS COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILMAN DANIEL SAVAGE COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, CHIEF CLERK V A R A L L O Incorporated Litigation Support Services Eleven Penn Center 1835 Market Street, Suite 600 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 215.561.2220 215.567.2670
Good morning, everyone. May I have your attention, please. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. The Council will please come to order. Members will take their seats and visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Father Joseph Sibel, Assistant Pastor of St. Jerome Roman Catholic Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilman O'Neill. I would ask all members and guests to please rise. (Everyone rises.)
Almighty and eternal God, you have revealed your glory to all peoples, God of power and might, God of wisdom and justice. Through you authority is rightly administered, laws are enacted and judgment is decreed. Let the light of your divine of our City Council. May the light of your wisdom shine forth in all the Council's proceedings. May all the Councilmembers seek to preserve peace and promote peace. May they continue to bring us the blessings of liberty and equality. Almighty and eternal God, we likewise commend to your unbounded mercy all the citizens of Philadelphia. May we be blessed in the knowledge of your holy law. May we be preserved in that peace which the world cannot give. And after enjoying the blessings of this life, may we be admitted to those which are eternal. We pray to you who are Lord and God, forever and forever. Amen. (Amen.)
The Chair thanks Father Sibel for his very inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 4, 2004, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 4, 2007 stand approved. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 4, 2007 stand approved. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 4, 2007 order of business is requests for leave of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the majority, there are no requests for leaves of absence today.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Madam President, there are no requests today from the republicans.
Thank you. 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 to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco, who will present a resolution recognizing the 17th anniversary of Memory Walks in October. Will Ms. Wendy Campbell and those accompanying her please join the Councilwoman at the podium. Councilman Ramos is also joining Councilwoman Tasco.
Good morning. Thank you. This is on behalf of the President, but Councilman Ramos and I co-sponsored it, so we'll share reading this resolution recognizing the 17th anniversary of Memory Walks in October and observing National Alzheimer's Awareness Month in November 2007 in the City of Philadelphia. Whereas, National Alzheimer's Awareness Month is observed nationally in November as officially acclaimed by then 1982; and Whereas, the purpose of National Alzheimer's Disease Month is to raise awareness of this disease and to emphasize the importance of finding treatments, prevention and ultimately a cure; and Whereas, this disease is mysterious, elusive and frustrating. It is degenerative and advances gradually, causing forgetfulness, confusion, impaired judgment and ultimately total dependency; and
Whereas, although the federal government estimates spending over half a billion dollars for Alzheimer's disease research this year alone, there is still no vaccine, no cure and no treatment for this terrible disease; and Whereas, the Alzheimer's Association is the major source of information and support for the four million Americans with this disease and a national network whose members represent the interests of those affected by Alzheimer's disease on every level of government and with health and long-term care providers. The Association is a strong and effective advocacy group whose members we thank for their continuing efforts. Now therefore
Resolved, by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, that we recognize November 2007 as National Alzheimer's Disease Month. Resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Wendy L. Campbell, President of the Alzheimer's Association, as evidence of our respect for her, the Association's work and our sincere hope that the dream of prevention and cure will be a reality. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the the 4th of October 2007. Signed by President Anna C. Verna, President of City Council, and supported by all members of City Council. (Applause.)
Thank you very much. Thank you, Madam President and Councilman Ramos and Councilwoman Tasco. On behalf of the Alzheimer's Association, it's my privilege to accept this resolution on behalf of the 294,000 people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in the Delaware Valley. In honor of all of those people for the month of November, Philadelphia is going purple. Thanks to the Cira Centre and the Ben Franklin Bridge, we will be supporting our color of purple and they'll be recognizing all of those individuals throughout the month of November. It's our distinct privilege to be here, and I (Applause.)
The next order of business is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-At-Arms deliver the messages to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that October the 18th, 2007, I signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its session on September 27, 2007; and On October 18th, I signed Bill No. 070512 that passed Council on October 4, 2007; and On October 5, 2007, I signed the following bill that was passed by Council at its session on October 4, 2007: Bill No. 070670; and I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body an ordinance authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to construct, own and maintain encroachments in the right-of-way of the east side of North Broad Street between Arch and Race Streets; and An ordinance authorizing LaSalle University to construct, own and maintain an overhead pedestrian bridge crossing the 5600 block of East Wister Street; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Grants Revenue Fund from the Director of Finance to the City Commissioners; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey certain tracts of land with the buildings and improvements thereon known as 332-52 East Tioga Street; and in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Grants Revenue Fund from the Director of Finance to the Police Department; and An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the Grants Revenue Fund from the Director of Finance to the Law Department; and An ordinance authorizing and directing the placing on City Plan No. 359 of two rights-of-way for drainage purposes in the vicinity of St. Thomas Drive; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey a certain tract of land with the buildings and improvements thereon known as 2815 Ridge Avenue; and An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to grant to SEPTA an easement across a portion of 13th Street and Market Streets.
Thank you. The messages will be printed in the Journal. I would ask the Chief Clerk to please read any other communications in her possession.
Thank you. The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a motion.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended in order to permit the immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution recognizing and honoring Lynn Saligman League as it celebrates 50 years of fundraising for the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I introduce one bill and resolution on your behalf and one bill on my behalf.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing Brandywine Cira South, owner and developer of the Cira Centre South, bounded by Walnut Street, 30th Street, Chestnut Street and Schuylkill Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Section 9-205 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sidewalk Sales," by prohibiting vending within an area bounded by 60th Street, Elmwood Avenue, 67th Street and Kingsessing Avenue, on both sides.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. I'm sorry. That was an ordinance. That bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. I believe you have a resolution. Thank you.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 36th and 48th Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Again, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Greenlee.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer two resolutions and one bill, and I'd like to speak on one resolution.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of Cheltenham Avenue and Walnut Lane.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing Council's Legislative Oversight Committee to hold public hearings to investigate the Administration's failure to enter into contracts necessary to expand the Basic Systems Repair Program in the Seventh Council District, as authorized by Resolution No. 070595, adopted June 14, 2007, and in the Ninth Council District, as authorized by Resolution No. 070588, adopted June 14, 2007.
Thank you, Madam President. The resolution is sponsored by Councilman Savage also. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the resolution will be referred to the Committee of the Legislative Oversight.
And a resolution calling upon the Mayor to replenish the $30 million in capital funding contained in Bill No. 060833, which became law January 23, 2007; and if the Mayor refuses to do so, authorizing Council to retain counsel to file a lawsuit to compel the Administration to replenish the Capital Fund.
Thank you, Madam President. In his column in Sunday's Philadelphia Inquirer, Tom Ferrick reminded us that the City is on the verge of an infrastructure crisis. In 1999, the City spent $117 million per year on its capital infrastructure. This year the City will spend approximately $54 million. However, the Capital Program Office has stated that we should be spending approximately $185 million per year. We are on the verge of an infrastructure crisis. To address this issue, Council by two-thirds majority passed Bill 060832 and 060833 to transfer $30 million into the Capital Fund for improvements for Fire, Police and the Recreation Department facilities. These dollars were available due to an unanticipated $57.9 million improvement in the Fiscal Year '06 General Fund balance. Although Council approved these transfers into law, the Administration has reversed this action without any approval of Council. In response, I ask the Council to support this resolution today. We cannot wait until our infrastructure in our City collapses. I thank you, and I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I have one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution proclaiming the week of October 15, 2007 as "Conflict Resolution Week."
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Savage.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two bills and one resolution today.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey certain tracts of land with the buildings and improvements thereon known as 332 to 52 East Tioga Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code," by adding a new subsection requiring the installation of carbon monoxide alarms in all new and existing R-4 occupancies.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 7th, 18th, 19th, 23rd and 31st Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I offer three bills and one resolution.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing Rimas Properties to construct, own and maintain a raised entrance plaza encroachment at 1352 South Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, its agents, successors and assigns, to construct, own and maintain encroachments into the right-of-way at the east side of North Broad Street between Arch and Race Streets.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to grant to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority an easement across a portion of a certain parcel of land in the vicinity of the intersection of 13th and Market Streets.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 1st Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco. COUNCILMAN DiCICCO: Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will please indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two resolutions this morning.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
A resolution recognizing the 16th annual "My City, My Place" Bright Futures Award Event sponsored by the Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Mental Retardation Services, on Thursday, November 1, 2007.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by saying aye. (Aye.)
And a resolution honoring Greater Philadelphia Cares on the occasion of the 14th annual Philadelphia Cares Day on October 20th.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution this morning co-sponsored by Councilmen Goode and Rizzo and Councilwomen Blackwell, Reynolds Brown and Miller.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title.
A resolution honoring Laborers' Local 332 in its 75th anniversary and declaring November 1, 2007 as Laborers' Local 332 Day in the City of Philadelphia.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ramos.
Thank you, Madam President. I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Campbell.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one bill and one resolution, and I ask to have the privilege to speak on the resolution before the vote.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 231 and 275 by striking from the City Plan Mansion Street and Fowler Street, each from Cinnaminson Street to Lemonte Street and Cinnaminson Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing Council's Legislative Oversight Committee to hold public hearings to investigate the Administration's failure to enter into contracts necessary to expand the Basic Systems Repair Program in the Fourth Councilmanic District, as authorized by Resolution No. 070405, adopted June 7, 2007.
Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, my esteemed colleagues, I speak to you this morning about very troubling circumstances regarding the Fourth Councilmanic District Basic System Repair Program. I introduced on June 7, 2007 an amendment to the NTI Program Statement and Budget that transferred $900,000 from the Fourth Councilmanic District acquisition line item and $400,000 from the vacant property stabilization line item that was budgeted for the Fourth Council District. 3 million in NTI bond proceeds were transferred to the newly created Fourth Council District Basic System Repair Program. During the NTI budget hearings, I learned that the Fourth Councilmanic District only received a minuscule amount of funding for the residents. I was greatly trouble by this very low percentage, because I was keenly aware of many homes that were desperately in need of repairs among persons on fixed income and of low income. I felt that if we could find funds to help those who were in such desperate need of basic repairs for their homes, it could make a difference. I sent a letter on June 20th, 2007 to Kevin Hanna, Secretary of Housing, requesting that OHCD either amend an existing contract with PHDC or enter into a new contract with PHDC so that these funds would be available as of July 1, 2007. In July, we established a meeting schedule with representatives of OHCD and PHDC to discuss the implementation of this program. In our first meeting, I questioned the status of the contracting of these funds, even suggesting that the most expeditious process would be to amend an existing contract. At that meeting, representatives of OHCD indicated that they would rather issue a new contract rather than amend an existing contract. I continuously stressed that time was of the essence, and at each meeting, we were repeatedly assured that the new contract would be in place by September 1, 2007. With this commitment constantly being reiterated, my staff took their to 9 o'clock at night, many times spending hours on Sunday, seeking out those who were so desperately in need of help and taking their applications. We went into every ward in the district many times to be fair and unbiased in taking the applications. We processed over 600 applications. During this process, my heart became heavy as I learned about the applicants we were processing. I learned about a senior citizen receiving a pension of only $43 a month, another senior citizen living on $144 a month, another senior living on $237 a month, and the mother of four children living on $549 a month. This is just a small sampling of some of the incomes. During this period, I received a telephone call from an 86-year-old woman who was living in a nursing home because she could not afford a roof on her house, and she asked that we fix her roof so that she could live her remaining days in her home. I also got a telephone call from an 86-year-old senior who said she could not touch her walls because they were so hot due to electrical problems. An 84-year-old man got a neighbor to walk him eight blocks so that we could take his application for repairs, because his roof was about to cave in. I find these cases very troubling, and if not for the grace of God, it could be my mother, my father, my sister, my brother or my friend. 3 million was not going to be adequate. So after doing more research and with the help of City Council's wonderful technical staff, especially Mr. Herbert Wetzel, who is a Godsend, I realized that through other cancellations in other categories, I could get additional funds. I introduced on September 20th,
3 million of NTI bond proceeds into the Fourth Council District Basic System Repair Program, which was unanimously approved again by this Council, and even with these additional funds, we had to stop taking applications because we did not want to give false hope. We could not deal with the demand. Today, over four months since the first resolution was passed, the funds are still not under a fully executed contract, and on behalf of the residents of the Fourth Councilmanic District, I demand to know why they are not. Totally committed to the needs of this unfortunate group of residents in my district, my staff and I have worked feverishly trying to make sure that we left no stone unturned so that when the funds became available, the work could begin in the applicants' homes, as was promised at our meetings with OHCD. We were guaranteed that the work would start by the second week of September. If not then, by October 1st. As of yesterday, there was not a fully executed contract so that we could proceed with the work. I constantly requested updates on the contract and when the funds would be available. Every time I asked, I was told it would be ready soon. As of yesterday, October 7, 2007, the funds were not available. I learned when I started to transfer these monies that there were persons in the Administration who were trying to block my use of NTI funds for the needy. However, I never thought that they would engage in a deliberate and reprehensible process to keep these funds from those in need. I am infuriated at the thought that employees of this government, employees whose very paycheck as a result of funds coming to the City to help the poor, the elderly and the disabled, could act in such a manner to impede the delivery of service to the very population that justifies their livelihood. Civil servants are not supposed to be -- they were supposed to be there for the service of helping the public, but not working against them. I am tired of the machinations. I am tired of the half truths. I am tired of the deceitfulness. I am tired of the indifference and insensitivity to the needy and the most fragile segment of our community, and I personally abhor this dastardly act being perpetrated upon the elderly, the defenseless, the sick and the poor. This lack of action by the Department is intolerable, inexcusable, unforgivable and totally unacceptable. Employees are supposed to be servants of the people and not working against the people. 3 million, this foiled the plans of certain unprincipled operatives within the Department. They assumed that I did not realize that I had additional dollars committed in other categories and that I could cancel in favor of Basic Systems Repair that I needed to do. I learned that these actions were allegedly being done to enhance themselves with the new Administration coming in to be able to retain their jobs or attain higher positions. This is despicable. I come from a political background, but politics has no place in dealing with the needs of those who are disenfranchised or in need of help and suffering. The winter is approaching. I am worried about these residents who are not able to help themselves with their needs for basic repairs. My heart is heavy, to say the least. I ask that you, my fellow Councilmembers, support this resolution so that we may get some answers and justice for those in need. Thank you.
Thank you very much. Councilwoman, may I suggest that you make a motion for the adoption, please.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have five bills and one resolution.
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Section 9-618 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Sale of Spray Paint Containers, Indelible Markers and Etching Acid."
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Section 9-1802 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Use of Electronic Scanners," by requiring, as a condition of licensure, that retail establishments program their electronic scanners to reject any sale of tobacco products or malt or brewed beverages.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Section 9-213 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Farmers' Markets," by adding as a permissible location Aviator Park, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to convey a certain tract of land with the buildings and improvements thereon known as 2815 Ridge Avenue.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance granting permission to Bradresh Shah, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the northwest corner of 16th Street and Market Street, to construct, use and maintain conduits for fiberoptic facilities in and under the northwest corner of 16th and Market Streets.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority deeds located in the 15th, 16th, 28th, 29th, 32nd, 37th and 43rd Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will indicate by (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
Thank you. The next order of business is reports from committees, and the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a report Rules.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Rules reports six bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred Bill No. 070437, 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 Grant Avenue, Frankford Avenue, Pearson Street and the I-95 Expressway"; and Bill No. 070674, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 14-1600 of The Philadelphia Code by adding a new section entitled '30th Street Special Controls District'"; and 070675, entitled "An ordinance authorizing Brandywine Cira South, owner and developer for the Cira Centre South, to construct, own and maintain various encroachments to be installed in conjunction with a mixed-use development"; and Bill No. 070676, entitled "An ordinance establishing a no parking regulation on 30th Street between Market Street and Walnut Street"; and Bill No. 070677, 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 30th Street, Chestnut Street, Schuylkill Avenue and Walnut Street"; and Bill No. 070678, entitled "An ordinance regulating the direction of movement of traffic on 30th Street between Market Street to Walnut Street," respectfully reports it has considered and amended the same and returns the with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended this day as to permit first reading of Bill Nos. 070437, 070674, 070675, 070676, 070677 and 070678.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair at this time recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski for a report from the Committee on Appropriations.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Appropriations reports two bills out with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Appropriations, to which was referred Bill No. 070542, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations 2008 within the General Fund from certain or all City offices to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions"; and Bill No. 070681, entitled "An ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Council to the Mayor - Office of Housing and Community Development and to the Department of Recreation," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill 070542 and Bill 070681. (Duly seconded.)
It properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke for a report from the Committee on Public Property and Public Works.
Madam President, the Committee on Public Property and Public Works reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Property and Public Works, to which was referred Bill No. 070793, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into the amendment of four cable television franchises operated by subsidiaries of Comcast Corporation"; and Bill No. 070794, entitled "An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement between the City and the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for further sublease to the Philadelphia Public Access Corporation, a non-profit corporation to be incorporated by the City, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill Nos. 070793 and 070794. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a report from the Committee on Public Health and Human Services.
Madam President, the Committee on Public Health and Human Services reports two bills with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chief Clerk will please read the report.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Health and Human Services, to which was referred Bill No. 070153, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 6 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Health Code,' by adding a new section requiring that chain restaurants obtain and display certain nutrition information for food, offered for sale"; and Bill No. 070511, entitled "An ordinance amending Section 6-307 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Foods Containing Artificial Trans Fats,' by exempting certain bakeries from the provisions prohibiting the use of artificial trans fats, under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill 070153 and Bill 070511. (Duly seconded.)
It properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bills just reported from committee. All in favor will please say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bills just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Miller for a report from the Committee on Public Safety.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Public Safety reports one bill with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Public Safety, to which was referred Bill No. 070275, entitled "An ordinance amending Title 6 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled 'Health Code,' related to hearing protection measures for firefighters and paramedics, with amendments thereto, all under certain terms and conditions," respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading today, this day, of Bill No. 070275. (Duly seconded.) 10/18/07 - STATED - 1ST READING
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of the bill just reported from committee. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it, and the bill just read will be placed on our First Reading Calendar for today. 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. 070338, an ordinance continuing a neighborhood improvement district beyond the date of termination of such district in an area bounded generally by Tulip Street, Allegheny Avenue, Amber Street and 10/18/07 - STATED - 1ST READING Venango Street, known as the Port Richmond Industrial Development Enterprise Neighborhood Improvement District.
And Bill No. 070437, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Grant Avenue, Frankford Avenue, Pearson Street and I-95.
And Bill No. 070674, an ordinance amending Section 14-1600 of The Philadelphia Code, by adding a new section entitled "30th Street Special Controls District."
And Bill No. 070675, an ordinance authorizing 10/18/07 - STATED - 1ST READING Brandywine Cira South, owner and developer for Cira Centre South, to construct, own and maintain various encroachments to be installed in conjunction with a mixed-use development.
And Bill No. 070676, an ordinance establishing a no parking regulation on 30th Street between Market Street and Walnut Street.
And Bill No. 070677, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by 30th Street, Chestnut Street, Schuylkill Avenue and Walnut Street.
And Bill No. 070678, an ordinance regulating the 10/18/07 - STATED - 1ST READING direction of movement of traffic on 30th Street between Market Street to Walnut Street.
And Bill No. 070542, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from certain or all City offices to certain or all City offices, departments, boards and commissions.
And Bill No. 070681, an ordinance authorizing transfers in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008 within the General Fund from the Council to the Mayor - Office of Housing and Community Development and to the Department of Recreation.
And Bill No. 10/18/07 - STATED - 1ST READING 070793, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to enter into the amendment of four cable television franchises operated by subsidiaries of Comcast Corporation for public access television programming in the City of Philadelphia, all under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 070794, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City, to enter into a lease agreement between the City and the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for further sublease to the Philadelphia Public Access Corporation, all under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 070153, an ordinance amending Title 6 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Health 10/18/07 - STATED - 1ST READING Code," by adding a new section requiring that chain restaurants obtain and display certain nutrition information for food, meal and beverage items, all under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 070511, an ordinance amending Section 6-307 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Foods Containing Artificial Trans Fats," by exempting certain bakeries from the provisions prohibiting the use of artificial trans fats, under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 070275, an ordinance amending Title 6 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Health Code," by adopting certain provisions of the National Fire Protection Association Standard related to hearing protection measures for firefighters and paramedics, 10/18/07 - STATED - 1ST READING with amendments thereto, all under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair agrees. That concludes our Calendar, our First Reading bills. The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up the bills -- I'm sorry. Councilman Kelly, I'm sorry. I didn't see your light on.
Madam President, I'd like to make a motion to suspend the rules to permit an amendment to Bill No. 070275, which was just read, the first reading.
Is there any objection from members of the Committee? (No response.)
Yes, Madam President. They were circulated this 10/18/07 - STATED - 1ST READING morning.
If you don't mind -- I don't think several of the Councilmembers have seen it. If you don't mind, would you explain what the amendments are?
Yes. It's just actually taking out the date where the ordinance shall take effect. We're removing "on July 1, 2007." It's just going to read "this ordinance shall take effect immediately." We're just taking out the date.
A motion has been made to suspend -(Duly seconded.)
Those opposed? 10/18/07 - STATED - 2ND READING (No response.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. Again, the Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
I move to adopt the amendment to Bill No. 070275. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that not only the amendment but the request for the amendment be approved. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up the bills on the Second Reading and Final Passage Calendar to be considered today.
Thank you, Madam President. There are no bills to be considered today on our Second Reading and Final Passage. All bills are being held.
Thank you. The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. Are there any speeches on the part of the minority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Kelly.
Yes. Thank you, Madam President. I'm sure that everyone has heard about the incidents what's happened in Bedford County, Virginia yesterday. Twenty-one schools were shut down after a student died from MRSA. In light of this tragedy, I want to revisit the steps I took regarding MRSA a short time ago. My hope is that we continue to raise greater public awareness about MRSA here in Philadelphia. On August 29th, I held a press to discuss an insidious and potentially dangerous staph infection known as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA. At the time, I urged the School District of Philadelphia to report MRSA on a case-by-case basis instead of in clusters as the current protocol. Furthermore, I called for the School District officials to incorporate information regarding MRSA into City health class instruction. My interest in generating greater public awareness of MRSA in fact should stem from my friendship with Scott Cummings. When Scott told me how this terrible infection jeopardized the health of his wife and three children, I was stunned. Additionally, I recently found out that someone in my immediate family came down with MRSA infection and is currently suffering from and being treated for this infection. MRSA is a deadly serious public and across the country. The infection is becoming increasingly prevalent among school-age athletes, especially those involved in team sports. In fact, I understand that the dramatic upswing in MRSA infections has prompted pharmaceutical companies to find new ways to battle the deadly bacteria. One is an over-the-counter product called StaphAseptic. I do not believe the vast majority of the citizens of Philadelphia realize what this infection is, how easily it can be passed from one person to another and how potentially lethal it is, especially in children or adults with compromised immune systems. When City Council resumed in September, I sponsored a resolution declaring the month of September MRSA Awareness Month in Philadelphia. The more people that know about this dangerous infection, the better we can minimize future outbreaks. I thank all joined me in sponsoring the resolution. Several days after I outlined my resolution, the Daily News Editorial Board had the audacity to criticize my resolution in their editorial dated Friday, August 31, 2007, titled "An Ordinance." They called my resolution silly, questionable or a downright bone-headed law. I am not asking for an apology. I don't want an apology. However, I think they ought to print an editorial talking about the dangers of MRSA and help, through their publication, to raise awareness of this disease. I am not trying to cause mass hysteria here in Philadelphia. However, it is my intention to present the truth, not an abbreviated version of it. I want to work both with the Health Department and School District to increase awareness and to compile accurate data on incidents in Philadelphia. infection. I want Philadelphians to be aware of it and I want to prevent any unnecessary suffering as a result of it. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you, Councilman. Are there any speeches on the part of the majority? (No response.)
Seeing none, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.
Madam President, I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, October the 25th at 10:00 a.m., 2007. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, October 25th at 10:00 a.m. All in favor will say aye. (Aye.)
The ayes have it and the motion carries. Thank you all very much. (Stated Meeting adjourned at 11:00 a.m.) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the proceedings, evidence and objections are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon the foregoing matter on October 18, 2007, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. ______________________________ MICHELE L. MURPHY RPR-Notary Public (The foregoing certification of this transcript does not apply to any reproduction of the same by any means, unless under the direct control and/or supervision of the certifying reporter.)