COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Thursday, 11/29/01 10:25 a.m. Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, PA PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE L. BLACKWELL COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN COUNCILMAN DARRELL L. CLARKE COUNCILMAN FRANK J. DICICCO COUNCILMAN W. WILSON GOODE, JR. COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN W. THACHER LONGSTRETH COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN ANGEL L. ORTIZ COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO PATRICIA RAFFERTY, Deputy Chief Clerk VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103 11/29/01 STATED - GREETING/INVOCATION/SONG
Good morning, everyone. I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will 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 the Reverend Jacob Chapman, Pastor of the Pinn Memorial Baptist Church. He is here today as the guest of Councilwoman Reynolds Brown. Will all members and guests please rise.
Let us rejoice and be glad in it. God, our father, we thank Thee for another day. We thank Thee for an opportunity to stand before Thee. We recognize Your glory, Your majesty, and Your goodness. We pray now for this Council. We pray for their deliberations. We pray that You would share with them the knowledge and wisdom that is necessary to govern this great city. We pray to God that You will not only bless them today but bless their work day by day as they go about to facilitate the things they've planned for here today. 11/29/01 STATED - GREETING/INVOCATION/SONG We pray not only are for them, but we pray for our nation. We pray that You would breathe on us, guide us and keep us. Make us a blessing, use us to Your glory and Your honor. These blessings we ask. In the name of Thy son we pray and for His sake, amen.
Amen. The Chair thanks Reverend Chapman for his inspiring invocation. Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease.) (Proceedings resume.)
At this time, I would like to introduce Timothy Kelly, who will sing "God Bless America." Timothy is the guest of Councilwoman Krajewski. He is eight years old and attends Ann Frank School and the Russell Faith Music Studies School in Northeast Philadelphia. I would like him to be escorted to the podium. (Timothy Kelly and parents come forward.)
We welcome you, Timothy. 11/29/01 STATED - GREETING/INVOCATION/SONG TIMOTHY: Thank you. (Applause.) (Timothy sings "God Bless America.")
That was absolutely beautiful. I understand you have another favorite song that you would like to sing for us. Everybody could be seated. TIMOTHY: Yes, thank you. It's dedicated to Joan Krajewski, Councilwoman Joan Krajewski. (Applause.) (Timothy sings "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling.")
At this time, I would like to recognize the parents of Timothy, Eileen and Timothy Kelly. (Applause.) MR. and
The next order of business is the approval of the meeting of Thursday, November 15, 2001. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell. 11/29/01 STATED - GREETING/INVOCATION/SONG
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 15, 2001 stand approved (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 15, 2001 stand approved. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed, nay? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Journal of the meeting of Thursday, November 15, 2001 stands approved
The next order of business is requests for leaves of absence, and the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning, we request a leave of absence for Councilman David Cohen.
Thank you. Leave will been granted The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill. VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS
Madam President, on behalf of the Republicans, there are no requests for leaves of absence.
The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining in us chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We certainly invite you to come again. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski, who will make a presentation to someone we all love and respect, who's done an absolutely fabulous job. We're honoring Joe Martz. Will Joe Martz and those accompanying him please join the Councilwoman at the podium. (Joe Martz et al. come forward.) (Applause.)
Thank you, Madam VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS President. This gentleman has done such a great job, and quite a few Councilpeople would like to stand here as well, as well as all Councilpeople, but I would like to invite up Councilman Kenney, Councilman Mariano, Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, Councilman DiCicco, Councilwoman Blackwell, and Councilman O'Neill. (Councilmembers come forward.)
And I would also like to invite a longtime friend of our Managing Director, Joe Martz, who I happen to have known since he was this high. He went to school with one of my kids, that's how -- but anyway, I would like to invite a very dear, dear close friend of his since childhood as well, my state representative, Michael McGeehan. (Michael McGeehan comes forward.) (Applause.)
A resolution honoring Joseph S. Martz. Whereas, Joseph S. Martz, over the course of the last decade, has served the City of VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS Philadelphia in a number of capacities, including positions with the Department of Public Property and as the First Deputy Managing Director in the Rendell administration.
and whereas, Joe was appointed Managing Director of the City of Philadelphia on January 7, 2000 by Mayor John F. Street. As Managing Director, Joe also served the City as a member of the Mayor's cabinet and Chief Operating Officer; and...
And whereas, Joe's enormous success can be traced directly to the hard work and dedication of his parents, George and Dolores Martz, and that Joe is one of seven children that has achieved incredibly successful careers; and...
Whereas, Joe Martz epitomizes Northeast Philadelphia, graduating from St. Bernard Grade School and Father Judge High School with boyhood friend State Representative Michael McGeenhan and is still residing in is lifelong home on Chippendale Street; and...
Whereas, Joe has proven to be an exemplary Penn State alum. and VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS made us all very proud, including me. Whereas, Joe earned a bachelor's degree from Penn State University and a master's degree in business administration from St. Joseph University in Philadelphia; and Whereas, Joe, during his tenure as Managing Director, has overseen a number of highly successful projects, including the abandoned vehicle program, the vacant lot program, and innovative changes to the 911 system.
And whereas, Joe was also the driving force behind an initiative for plowing secondary streets during snowstorms, drawing rave reviews from City residents; and Whereas, the crowning jewel of Joe's tenure came in August 2000 as the Republican National Convention was held in Philadelphia, thrusting our city into the national spotlight and showcasing our treasures to the rest of the nation. Now, therefore...
Resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia that we hereby honor, commend, and express our sincere appreciation to Joseph Martz, Managing Director of VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS the City of Philadelphia, for his hard work, dedication, and distinguished service to the City of Philadelphia and its residents.
Resolved further that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Joe Martz further evidencing the grateful appreciation and deep admiration of this legislative slave body. We wish him tremendous success in all of his future endeavors. (Applause.)
Madam President, if it's at all possible, if I do not have a successful career in the public sector, I'd like to take a roll-call vote and see if any of the 17 people here would give me a job in the future here in the city. (Laughter.)
This is a difficult day. My whole life, I have dreamed of serving the people of Philadelphia, and to leave what I love is very hard to do, but I am enormously grateful to this body for recognizing me and in particular recognizing me the great men and women who work for the City of VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS Philadelphia every day because what I do, unfortunately, in many ways comes back to people like myself and the Mayor and in reality is the work of 27,000 enormously hard-working people who work for the City of Philadelphia. And I am honored to be recognized today on behalf of each and every one of them. And I want to thank the wonderful commissioners in the departments in the City of Philadelphia who do such a great job every single day. And in particular, I want to recognize my great staff, and if they would for just a second, the staff of the Managing Director's Office, if you just could stand far second. (Managing Director staff people stand.)
I apologize. As you probably all know, I'm very emotional to begin with, but I have had the great honor of working here in the city and getting to know each and every member of this body, and I have enjoyed every single day of VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS it. You are a wonderful group of people doing great work for the people of Philadelphia, and they very fortunate to have you represent them across this city. I just want to conclude with just a couple of things, and that is to recognize two people wh are leaving with me: My First Deputy, Ted Dallas who is just an incredible public servant. (Applause.)
And behind every great man is a great woman, and she is retiring with me tomorrow night, and that is Peg Hailey, who's been serving the -(Applause.)
-- who's been serving the people of Philadelphia since 1960. So it's a well deserved retirement for you too, Peg. Madam President, thank you. And just finally, two very, very special people. You get into this business because you have a chance to admire the work of wonderful people, and I have had the chance to admire the work of my friend Joan Krajewski since I was a little boy. She is, without a doubt, the best -VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS no, I -- the best Councilperson in the whole 6th District. (Laughter.) (Applause.)
And a person who always taught me how to put the people of Philadelphia ahead of everything else. And I'm always grateful to Joan for that and for encouraging me and my career. And then finally to my best friend in this life and a person that I've known since I was 6 years old and, without a doubt, the best representative in the General Assembly, my State Representative, Michael McGeehan. (Applause.)
Thank you so much. Madam President, it's been an honor. Thank you so much for this. Thank you. (Applause.)
I'm sure that State Representative McGeehan would like to say a few words. Michael? STATE REP. MCGEEHAN: Thank you, Councilwoman. What an honor to address this City Council and to be here to share my appreciation and VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS deep sense of loss that the City of Philadelphia and the Commonwealth won't have Joe Martz in the Managing Director's Office any longer. Joe and I have been lifelong friends, and I'm continually amazed that he ran the City departments and, of course, along with that, it takes great ability to manage budgets and to manage people. And from a personal perspective, I'm not sure how exactly he did that since he still can't do algebra. (Laughter.) STATE REP. MCGEEHAN: Joe sat in front of me in algebra class in high school and his nickname was "Professor Martz," and it wasn't because he could get the answers; it was because he couldn't get the answers. So I'm grateful to him and for the job he's done for the City of Philadelphia, grateful for an opportunity to address the Council. And thank you very much for allowing me to be here today. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco. VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS
Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to add my congratulations to Joe Martz and say how sorry I am to see you leave. You did a wonderful job here in the City of Philadelphia. You were objective, you were fair, and I want to thank you for those trees on Rising Sun Avenue. (Laughter.)
And I want to thank you for the telecommunications TPAC. He was just very, very supportive of me in my term as Councilperson, and I really, really hate to see you go. But God bless you, and I wish you well in your new endeavor. (Applause.)
Joe, it's quite apparent that we all have the highest respect for you. We're certainly going to miss you. However, you must move on, and we wish you all the luck in your future endeavors. God bless you for all the work that you've done. Council will be at ease. VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS (Council stands at ease.) (Proceedings resume.)
At this time the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Reynolds Brown, who will present a resolution recognizing November 2001 as "Adoption Month." Will Deputy Commissioner Ann Marie Ambrose and Miss Catherine Cross and those accompanying them please join the Councilwoman at the podium. (Councilwoman Brown et al. come forward.)
Thank you, Madam President. Joining me is Councilwoman Blackwell, and I should mention at the outset that this resolution was cointroduced by Councilman Angel Ortiz and W. Wilson Goode. This is a resolution declaring November 200a as "Adoption Month" in Philadelphia and recognizing the Department of Human Services in their efforts to place children with nurturing adoptive families. Whereas, the Philadelphia Department of VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS Human Services is charged with the mission of providing nurturing and caring homes for young people in need of loving families; and
Whereas, when young people are placed in nurturing environments, the results can be tremendous. As Commissioner Martinez recently stated in a Philadelphia Inquirer quote, "We have seen remarkable progress in the mental, physical, psychological, and social growth of children who have been adopted by loving families"; And Whereas, DHS has made an outstanding improvement since the mid-'90s on adoption rates, from 212 adoptions in 1995 to 650 adoptions in the year 2000; and Whereas, implementing innovative ways to assist all children and families has become a hallmark of DHS under the leadership of Commissioner Alba Martinez; and Whereas, one of those innovations has been to partner with the Philadelphia Daily News in their "Legacy of Love" series, which has profiled children with mental health and medical needs; and
Whereas the VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS partnership has resulted in hundreds of inquiries on how to be foster parents or adoptive parents, which will result in many more youth being placed in an environment that will give them a chance of happiness; and Whereas, realizing that the collective energies of partnerships make good things happen, DHS has partnered with the faith-based Partnership for Adoption, the Statewide Adoption Network, and the National Adoption Center to ensure that positive adoptions continue, not just this month but year-round; Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of Philadelphia that we hereby declare November 2001 as "Adoption Month" in the City of Philadelphia. Resolved further that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Philadelphia Department of Human Services for their efforts to place children with nurturing adoptive families, as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Again, introduced by Jannie Blackwell, Councilman Angel Ortiz, and Councilman W. Wilson Goode and myself, and cosponsored by VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS every member of the Council of the City of Philadelphia. (Applause.)
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Deputy Commissioner Ambrose for remarks. DEPUTY COMMISSIONER AMBROSE: On behalf of Philadelphia's Department of Human Services and Commissioner Alba Martinez, I would like to thank Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown and all City Councilmembers for such a generous proclamation recognizing the work of DHS in proactively seeking and securing permanent, loving homes for Philadelphia's children. It is an exceptional honor for our agency to be commended this way by City Council. November is "National Adoption Month" and a time for child welfare agencies across the country to draw the public's attention to the continuing need for more adoptive parents. Presently, there are more than 200 children in Philadelphia who are in need of adoption. While a responsibility and commitment at DHS is to provide safe, nurturing foster-home environments for VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS children placed that are outside of their home due to abuse or neglect, we don't believe that foster care is the optimal place for children that cannot go back to their families. Children need and deserve to be with loving families they can call their own. DHS has worked really hard with its partners to dramatically increase adoptions in Philadelphia from 212 in 1995 to 650 in 2000. However, the work is getting harder as the needs of our kids have become more complex. The reality is that the age range for most of our children awaiting to be adopted is between 10 and 12. Many have complex mental, emotional, and psychological needs. They need and deserve safe, loving homes where they can thrive. DHS is currently engaged in multiple efforts to get more people and communities involved as prospective parents or as adoption advocates. We are presently working in collaboration with the National Adoption Center in Philadelphia, the Statewide Adoption Network, and the Faith-based Partnership for Adoption in preparation for a public information campaign to recruit more VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS adoptive parents, specifically for Philadelphia's children in waiting. The month of November provides us with a platform to take the message out to Philadelphia and regional residents, but the need for adoptive parents is ongoing. We believe that our children have waited long enough. DHS is committed to developing more intense and targeted efforts to find the homes and families that these children deserve. Thank you again for this recognition of our efforts. Our work on behalf of children, youth and families in the City would not be possible without your support. Your genuine and continued commitment to finding better and smarter ways to improve services to our most vulnerable constituents has been, and will continue to be, vital in our efforts to become a model child welfare agency. DHS will remain committed to finding and securing adoptive homes for our children until there are no children waiting. Thank you again. (Applause.)
I would like to seize the moment and introduce to everyone VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS Catharine Cross, staff person at DHS, who was saluted actually by the Commonwealth last year, the one staff person who has made such a wonderful difference in the lives of so many families and the one person who dropped the number of children in foster care as a result of her efforts. So this is to give you a chance to put the name with the face, Catharine Cross. (Applause.)
I just want to thank you for the strong support that the City Administration, including City Council, has given to the Department and in particular enabled us to work with our children of families and to find permanent homes for them. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
Thank you, Madam Chair. As a parent of two kids from Philadelphia that I adopted through DHS, it really concerns me that you hear so many people always speaking about wanting kids and then going to Paraguay or China or somewhere else to find kids. Right here in VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS Philadelphia, we have kids that need adoption. And I think we need to take a message that says -because I have two diamonds in my house, I have two kids from North Philly who are incredible. And the kids from Philadelphia the process and anyone who needs a child to bring happiness and fulfillment to their lives, go to DHS before you go to China or Taiwan or Chile, or whatever it is. Go and see and look for one of our kids and take a moment. They'll bring a million, million, millions and millions of glad tidings to you and your family. Thank you.
Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease.) (Proceedings resume.)
The next order of best is communications. The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the clerk. The clerk will please read the messages from the Mayor. COMMUNICATIONS
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that today, November 28, 2001, I've signed all of the bills that were passed by Council at its session on November 15, 2001. And I am transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body a draft of a resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area. And an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to purchase a certain tract of land situate at 2114 to 16 North American Street for consideration, not to exceed $350,000, under and subject to the terms and conditions. And I'm transmitting for the consideration of your honorable body the following ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 284 by relocating a portion of the northerly curbline and house line on Germantown Avenue. COMMUNICATIONS And an ordinance authorizing the City Solicitor, on behalf of the City, to enter into a multi-year contract with the provider of the codification and editing services to produce printed and electronic versions of the eighth edition of the Philadelphia Code and periodic supplements, all under certain terms and conditions.
The messages will be printed in the Journal. The clerk will please read any other communications in her possession.
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 so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at their time of introduction. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS (Duly seconded.)
Thank you. It has been moved and seconded that the resolutions be considered immediately upon introduction. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two bills and two resolutions.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Chapter 19-2600 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Business-Privilege Taxes," by adding the definition of "travel or accommodation services," and by excluding from the definition of "receipts" and "receipts from traveler accommodation," under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 17 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS "Contracts and Procurement," providing that if any existing or new City contract grants the City the right to use or control the use of a suite box or other portion of a sports stadium ballpark arena or other sports facility, such City suite must be leased by the City to the highest possible bidder.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution welcoming the and honoring New York City firefighters and family members to the City of Philadelphia during the weekend of December 7 to 9, 2001.
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The clerk will please read the title of INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS the second resolution.
A resolution recognizing December 15, 2001 as "Bill of Rights Day" in the City of Philadelphia.
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning, I introduce two resolutions, one bill on your behalf, one bill on my own that is cosponsored by Councilman Ortiz, Councilman Wilson Goode, Jr., Councilman Frank Rizzo, and Councilman Frank DiCicco.
Thank you. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS The clerk will read the title of the first bill, please.
An ordinance authorizing Charles McNeil, owner of the property located at 432 South 48th Street, Philadelphia, to construct use, and maintain a wooden deck extension with support columns.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance authorizing and approving the execution and delivery of a service agreement between the City of Philadelphia and the Redevelopment Authority relating to the Comprehensive Neighborhood Transformation Program for revitalization, renewal, redevelopment, and transformation of blighted areas within the City of Philadelphia.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.
And a resolution authorizing the Council Committee of the Whole to hold hearings in the findings and recommendations of the City INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Controller's November 2001 Tax Structure and Analyst Report, and further authorizing the committee to seek advice and recommendations on tax policy and tax reform from citizens, financial experts, economists, business executives, and state legislative and executive branch offices.
This resolution is to be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
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 those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.
A resolution authorizing the INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City deeds located in the 3rd, 6th, 24th, and 51st 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 seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Madam President, I offer one bill and one privileged resolution.
The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the City Solicitor, on behalf of the City, to enter INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS into a multi-year contract with the provider of codification and editing services to produce printed and electronic versions of the eighth edition of the Philadelphia Code and periodic supplements, all under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And a resolution honoring and commending the officers and crew of the U.S.S Cole for their heroic acts of bravery and remembering those who gave their lives in the service of our country aboard the U.S.S. Cole on October 12, 2000.
Move the adoption of the resolution of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City deeds located in the 7th, 19th, 23rd, 37th, and 43rd Wards of the City of Philadelphia.
Madam President, I move for the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved it and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
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 those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution commending 2001 INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Chair Leadership Award Center in the Park and recognizing its effort to improve the health of local senior citizens.
I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill for consideration of this body.
The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance amending the Philadelphia Code to add various requirements and prohibitions relating to students living in educational housing districts, including amending INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Title 10 to define educational housing districts, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Brown.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolution this morning.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Goode.
Thank you, Madam President. I have no bills or resolutions.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer one bill which I sponsored and is cosponsored by 13 other members of City Council.
The clerk will please read the title of the bill. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
An ordinance amending Title 9 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Business, Trades and Professions," to require the sponsors of a planned event held at any premises to obtain a permit for such event if, because it is expected to attract significantly more persons than may be accommodated within the safe occupancy limits of the premises, the event may reasonably be expected to require a substantial increase in the need for fire prevention, police, traffic control, crowd control, or other public services, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property and the Director of Commerce, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to accept from the School District of Philadelphia all INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS or any portion of certain real estate in the vicinity of Red Lion Road and Roosevelt Boulevard, all under certain terms and conditions.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one resolution and one bill.
The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing and approving a comprehensive Neighborhood Transformation Program for revitalization and -(Applause.)
-- transformation of blighted areas within the City of Philadelphia to promote the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of the City of Philadelphia.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. (Applause.)
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
A resolution approving the redevelopment contract and disposition supplement of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment and urban renewal of a portion of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area.
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 those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth. Councilman Longstreth, do you have any bills or resolutions today?
Thank you. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
The next other business reports from committee. And the Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Rules Committee.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Rules reports nine bills with favorable recommendations.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia, the Committee on Rules, to which was referred: Bill No. 000717, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning by adding a new Section 14-1620 entitled "Avenue of the Arts North Special District Controls"; And Bill No. 010181, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES and Planning, by amending Chapter 14-500, entitled "Areas Surrounding Airports," by adding a new Section 14-1503, entitled "Building Setback Lines"; And Bill No. 010425, an ordinance declaring that it is desirable for the health, safety, and welfare of the people in the area served by Special People Northeast, Inc., a Pennsylvania nonprofit corporation, for the Hospitals and Higher Education Facilities Authority of Philadelphia to participate in the financing of certain projects for Special People in the Northeast; and Bill No. 010493, an ordinance amending Section 21-01 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Residence Requirements" for providing that an employee in the Civil Service need not be a bona fide resident of the City when appointed but must establish and maintain bona fide residence in the City within six months after appointment; and Bill No. 010509, an ordinance amending Section 21-01 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Residence Requirements," by providing that the active law enforcement officers from elsewhere in the United States entering into civil service REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES positions in the Philadelphia Police Department need not be bona fide residents of the City when appointed but must establish and maintain bona fide residence in the City within six months after appointment; and Bill No. 010524, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Section 14-511, entitled "Industrial District Rules and Exceptions," all under certain terms and conditions; and Bill No. 010526, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area generally bounded by Parkside Avenue, 50th Street, Railroad Row, and 51st Street; and Bill No. 010540, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-100, entitled "General Provisions"; And Bill No. 010605, an ordinance adopting an amendment the articles of incorporation of the Manayunk Special Service District of Philadelphia to extend the term of that authority, all under certain terms and conditions REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading this day of Bill No.'s 000717, 010425, 010493, 010509, 010524, 010526, 010540, and 010605. (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 Bill No.'s 000717, 010425, 010493, 010509, 010524, 010526, 010540, and 010605. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the bills just read will be placed on today's first-reading calendar. Bill No. 010181 will be placed on the first-reading calendar for our next session of Council. Are there any other committee reports? (No response.) BILLS ON FIRST-READING CALENDAR
Seeing none, the next order of business is consideration of the calendar. The clerk will please read the bills on the first-reading calendar.
Bill No. 000717, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled "Miscellaneous," all under certain terms and conditions.
And Bill No. 010425, an ordinance declaring that it is desirable for the health, safety, and welfare of the people in the area served by Special People Northeast, Inc., a Pennsylvania nonprofit corporation, for the Hospitals and Higher Education Facilities Authority of Philadelphia to participate in the financing of certain projects for the Special People in the Northeast.
The Chair agrees. BILLS ON FIRST-READING CALENDAR
And Bill No. 010493, an ordinance amending Section 21-01 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Residence Requirements," by providing that an employee in the Civil Service need not be a bona fide resident of the City when appointed but must establish and maintain bona fide residence in the City within six month after appointment.
And Bill No. 010509, an ordinance amending Section 21-01 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Residence Requirements," by providing that active law enforcement officers from elsewhere in the United States, upon entering into civil service positions in the Philadelphia Police Department need not be bona fide residents of the City when appointed but must establish and maintain bona fide residence in the City within six months.
And Bill No. 010524, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia BILLS ON FIRST-READING CALENDAR Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Section 14-511 entitled, "Industrial District Rules and Exceptions," by permitting certain additional uses in the G2 Industrial Districts located generally within an area commonly known as "The Philadelphia Auto Mall."
And Bill No. 010526, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area generally bounded by Parkside Avenue, 50th Street, a railroad row, and 51st Street.
And Bill No. 010540, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-100, General Provisions, by amending Section 14-102, entitled "Definitions," all under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair agrees. BILLS ON FIRST-READING CALENDAR
And Bill No. 010605, an ordinance adopting an amendment to the articles of incorporation of the Manayunk Special Services District of Philadelphia to extend the term of that authority, all under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair agrees. The bills read by the clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for our next session. That concludes our first-reading calendar.
The Chair now recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the purpose of calling up bills to be considered on the second-reading and final-passage calendar.
Thank you, Madam President. Today, Bill No. 010498 and 010367 are to be amended. All other bills are being held.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 010498.
An ordinance adding a new Chapter 9-2500 to the Philadelphia Code, entitled AMENDMENTS TO BILLS - NO. 010498 "Fire Suppression System Workers," providing for the examination and certification of fire suppression system workers and the permitting of fire suppression system apprentices, prohibiting the performance of fire suppression system work without the necessary certification and/or permit and providing for penalties, all under certain terms and conditions.
Councilman Mariano, I understand you're going to be offering an amendment to this bill. Has the amendment been circulated?
I don't think I have a copy. Can I have a copy, please?
Well, I don't have it on mine. I'd like to have a copy, please. (Copy of amendment provided to Council President Verna.)
Thank you. Okay, the Chair recognizes Councilman AMENDMENTS TO BILLS - NO. 010498 Mariano.
I would like to offer the amendments to this bill, to this ordinance.
Everyone has a copy of the amendment? Are you moving for the adoption?
I'd like to move for the adoption of these amendments. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the amendment be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye.
Why are we amending? What is the amendment, Councilman? AMENDMENTS TO BILLS - NO. 010498
Councilwoman, the amendments -- I think you have them in your hand -just specifies the different -- let me explain it to you. Basically what it does is, it reduces the number of hours needed for certification from 10,000 hours to 8,000 hours. It also adds a $150 fee for certification and renewal and a $75 fee for apprenticeship certification and renewal. It also provides for grandfathering of those individuals who already have the prerequisite experience in the fire suppression system field. And it changes the term "certification" to "certification throughout." It's germane to the bill.
It has been moved and properly seconded that the amendment be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the bill, as amended, will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for our next Council AMENDMENTS TO BILLS - NO. 010368 session. The clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 010368.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning" by amending Section 14-306.2, entitled "C7 Commercial District," by deleting certain uses in the C7 commercial district, all under certain terms and conditions.
I'd like to offer an amendment, Council President, that I have here; it's on everyone's desk. I would also like to offer some explanation.
Fine. Does the clerk have a copy of the amendment?
(Referring to audience members holding placards.) First of all, I'd like to thank the people in the audience who AMENDMENTS TO BILLS - NO. 010368 brought for their signs for spelling my name correctly -- that's not often done under these kind of circumstances -- and also for honoring me. I believe it's the first time in almost 22 years now that I have had the distinction. Nothing I was liking forward to actually. But the bill -- and I'd like to explain it -- this part as much for the people in the audience. It will not be voted on today because I am offering an amendment. The bill affects car dealerships and their placement in our communities where something else is there now, whether it be a restaurant, a convenience store. Before the passage of this bill in the past, several weeks ago, and it was recalled last week, you didn't need a zoning variance to put a car lot where there was previously many, many neighborhood uses. And this would -- this bill would change that to needing a variance, which I think is the correct way the zoning code should read. But after the bill passed and before it was signed by the Mayor, the Philadelphia Automobile Dealers Association, which is an AMENDMENTS TO BILLS - NO. 010368 association of, I believe, 286 new-car franchise dealers, approached me through the representatives and their attorney, Mr. Primavera, and we discussed ways that the bill could be improved in their behalf. And Mr. Primavera prepared language which I agree with because the existing dealers were not the target of the legislation. It's dealers opening up where people think right next to their home, there's this quiet little store, and all of a sudden, they've got a car lot. That is what the intent of the legislation is. And this amendment does not affect that intent at all to the extent that it makes the bill better for the new-car dealers. I am offering it and asking my colleagues to support it. The used-car dealers represented by the State Association -- the Pennsylvania Independent Association of Auto Dealers, I believe it is -- are not in favor of a similar amendment at this time or it would include them. I'm not sure we will reach any agreement. Their position has been they just want the bill killed, the bill we passed three weeks ago. AMENDMENTS TO BILLS - NO. 010368 But I'm willing to let the next week go by where this bill would sit on final passage anyway, and then if someone needs -- like Councilman Cohen I spoke to on the phone today from his home -- if he needs the courtesy of another week to try to bring some assistance to the process, that's fine with me. So I just offer the amendment today. It's been agreed upon by the Car Dealers Association of Philadelphia, the new-car dealers, and I ask my colleagues to pass it and move the bill to position next week for final passage. And I will certainly let anyone know whether there's been any agreement with the used-car dealers. There may not be, but I will certainly be able to speak on that at that time.
Thank you, Councilman. You have offered your amendment?
Are you going to move for the adoption? Would you read the amendment into the record, please.
Section 14-306.2, notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph and AMENDMENTS TO BILLS - NO. 010368 of this section, all franchise dealers selling new automobiles, including those which also sell used automobiles, shall be and shall remain conforming uses and structures under the Philadelphia Code and shall not be restricted as non-conforming uses or structures so long as the Department of Licenses and Inspections has issued a use registration permit and a certificate of occupancy for that use prior to November 1, 2001.
I move the adoption of the amendment. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that the amendment be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The amendment has been adopted. Bill No. 010368, as amended, will be placed on the second reading and final-passage calendar for our next session of Council That concludes our calendar. SPEECHES
Are there any speeches on the part of the Minority? (No speeches on the part of the Minority.)
Are there speeches on the part of the Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
On the issue I spoke about in the caucus, and I asked you if I should bring it up in the chambers, the negotiations that are going on about the governance and structure of the school system in Philadelphia, over the last month, I had spoken in this Council about when is a deal done and who should be part of the deal. It seems that we are headed towards an imposition of a governance system without the consent of the governed. This legislature is not a part of that. Neither are the parents, and neither are the teachers. And a few friends of mine have explored state takeovers in other states, and we have something to learn from the experience of those other states, one being Illinois, the other one being connect Connecticut. SPEECHES In Connecticut, the state took over but it was driven -- the takeover was driven by the parents of the City of Hartford. The parents of the City of Hartford, the majority are Puerto Ricans. And the takeover that ensued brought aboard that was structured by the state but with participation of the city and, it brought with it privatization. Sort of a knee-jerk reaction that people have when school systems are faltering for one reason or another, they think that the quick-fix change is to privatize and not reform. And reform means smaller classes, full participation in the decision-making by the people that are concerned, meaning the parents. Reform means the union buying into some changes. Well, privatization didn't work. Now they're in the process of buying out the company. It's costing them $7 million. As the CEO who they've hired told the group, If we're paying $7 million to buy out this private company, multiply that, because you are six, seven, eight times bigger than we are. Multiply $7 million by that and you'll be paying that private company, Edison, 80, 90, $70 million to buy them out because SPEECHES they will bail out. It is not reform, it is not change. I believe that the conversations -- that we should not hurry to make changes because we have self-imposed deadlines, deadlines that have been imposed by arbitrary negotiations. We did that with the stadium issue and we ended up making very bad decisions. This is not about stadiums; this is about kids and the future of the school system of Philadelphia. I believe that state takeover and the takeover of the Chicago school system leaves a lot to be desired. The one in Hartford has been restructured and changed completely. And I believe that it could probably serve as a good model. And I would ask you to perhaps write a letter from you and those of us who feel very strongly about the public education system. I have two kids in it. That a task force -- that no agreement be reached, no arbitrary deadline be set because today or tomorrow is not going to bring about wholesale changes in the school system. That you write to the Mayor and that you and the Mayor select a grouping of people that includes the head SPEECHES of the union, teachers union, the head of the other unions in the school system, parents, parent organizations, perhaps some of us who are interested in. And that we look at Chicago, we look at Hartford before we enter into any decisions. Because the governed, the people who are going to be governed by the decisions that are being discussed behind closed doors have not been consulted on those changes. And I don't think those changes should be made in that arbitrary manner. I believe that it behooves us, if we want to see the school system 10 years from now functioning at a level that this city deserves, to slow down that train and begin talking rationally. Those people who were marching yesterday -teachers and parents and kids -- are very concerned, and so should we be all. So I would hope that you could write, that you move, that we assume some leadership on this issue, and that we explore the other cities that have gone through similar experiences, because it doesn't do us any good going to an Edison school by SPEECHES itself.
Let's see where the privatization has been and what has happened. In Hartford, it has been, it has failed, they have been bought out. I suggest you and the Mayor and a grouping of people concerned about public education should hold the train up and move forward to look at the effect of the impact so that we can make the right decision for the kids and not the right decision for Edison. Thank you.
Thank you The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney
Thank you, Madam President. Just two quick notes. I introduced a bill today which would call for the waiver of the gross receipts portion of the business-privilege tax for hotels in the City of Philadelphia. Last year, in the year 2000, the 40 hotels in Philadelphia paid about $4.6 million in business-privilege taxes, the estimate that almost all of that was gross receipts because very few of our hotels, if any, make any profit during the year. Over the last 10 years or so, we have been SPEECHES encouraging hotel construction in Philadelphia through the use of TIFs and other incentives, and we have really built up our hotel industry quite well. The Convention Center is having its problems still with attracting convention and business meetings, but also after September 11th, the hotel industry nationwide, including Philadelphia, has really taken a hit. The Marriott alone has lost $1 million compared to same time last year m,and 2,000 of the 11,000 hotel workers have been laid off already in Philadelphia. Eighty percent of these people live in Philadelphia. So I want to make it clear that this bill is not intended to just simply be a tax break for one year for wealthy corporations, but the people who are being laid off are the most difficult people to place after they've lost their job. These are entry-level positions, they include modest salary but benefits. And the people who are losing these jobs are going to have a difficult time finding new work. So what I hope to do with the bill is to give a year's worth of grace and some breathing room to hotel so that they can continue employing SPEECHES our citizens and stay on their feet while we weather this issue relative to September 11th with the loss of tourism and trade. On a more lighter note, I want to say a word about our theater industry here in Philadelphia. With all of the work we've been doing, the City's been doing on the Avenue of the Arts with the Kimmel Center and the Wilma, the Merriam and Forrest Theatre on North Broad Street and the Freedom Theater, I had the opportunity last night to attend a production of "Me and Mrs. Jones" at the Prince Music Theater. If ever you feel that you're a little depressed and you wonder about the future of the City and you wonder about the future maybe of race relations in our city and what we all have in common, to sit in that theater last night -- Lou Rawls, first of all, who is the star of the show, has not missed a beat since I was listening to him in the car, I guess, at the lakes in the '70s with the radio on and making out. (Laughter.)
But he hasn't lost one step. But when you listen to the talent and words SPEECHES and music of Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, McFadden and Whitehead, the late Linda Creed, it is an amazing show. As a matter of fact, towards the end of the show last night, I saw a man standing in the theater standing up on his feet and dancing in the aisles. And it was Senator Hardy Williams. (Laughter.)
And he was dancing quite well. So if you really want your spirits lifted, if you really want to see something that's truly Philadelphia that hopefully will go to New York and be performed on Broadway and bring this city -- the great reputation of this city to New York, please, before it leaves, go and see it. Support our theater industry, support our downtown and our restaurants. But, I'll tell you what, "Me and Mrs. Jones" is a wonderful performance, an exciting event, and it really did -- it reinspired me about the belief that Philadelphia can make it. Thank you.
Wonderful, thank you. SPEECHES I understand that Councilwoman Tasco celebrated a birthday on Monday, and I know that Councilman O'Neill will be celebrating a birthday, I believe, on Sunday.
And I want my colleagues to know that we join them in extending our very warm good wishes. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco for a motion to adjourn.
Thank you, Madam President. Thanks to all of the people who sent me cards and flowers. I got away with it for years; this is the first year you all knew about it. But anyway, I move that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, December 6th, at 10 a.m. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, December 6, 2001, at 10 a.m. SPEECHES All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and Council stands adjourned until Thursday, December 6, 2001. Thank you. (Proceedings end at 11:37 a.m..) CERTIFICATE I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Thursday, November 29, 2001, are contained fully and accurately in the stenographic notes taken by me upon, and that this is a true and correct transcript of same. RE: STATED MEETING _______________________________, Josephine Cardillo Registered Professional Reporter and 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.)